Preparing your lawn for winter: The best fall fertilizers to use
Having a vibrant, healthy, and fresh-looking lawn makes the home look better and offers many benefits. It acts as a natural barrier against the scorching summer heat and unnecessary noises while improving the air quality around the home. However, maintaining a healthy lawn with changing and uncertain weather conditions is not easy. The lawn will need different kinds of care and maintenance as the seasons change.
The shift from summer to fall is significant because the summer heat can severely impact the grass. Growers might see many patchy areas, thin and weak grass due to low water levels, and compacted soil. Besides the damage from excess heat, unpredictable monsoon rains can also disturb the soil's nutrient content, negatively affecting plant growth. These problems must be addressed in the fall to prevent further damage during the harsh winter.
Fertilizers and other measures are crucial to restoring and maintaining the ideal nutrient balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for different seasons, and fall fertilizers are specifically designed to strengthen roots, provide the right nutrient content, and make plants more resistant to weeds and diseases. Fall fertilizers and other lawn care measures help plants recover from the summer heat damage and prepare them for the cold winter ahead.
Choosing the right fertilizer is essential for achieving these goals. Growcycle can be a great option for homeowners looking for the best fall fertilizers. They offer high-quality fall fertilizers and provide all the necessary tools and knowledge for lawn care. Additionally, they offer comprehensive assistance on essential lawn care and fertilizer application tips.
Ideal Time to Fertilize the Lawn
Fall is considered a good time for fertilizing lawns because roots show maximum growth during this season, which the right fertilizer will further maximize. Fertilizing in early fall will assist grasses in quick recovery from the summer heat, while fertilizer applied in the late fall will ensure the best root growth. But don’t go for fertilization if it's too late in the fall, as the cold following will make it difficult for soil to take up the nutrients from fertilizers, thus stressing the soil even more.
Before applying fertilizers, people need to observe the weather forecast as well. Sudden rain showers will wash away all the fertilizers, and hot temperatures will damage the just fertilized lawn. Considering time, a fertilizer works best in the morning when temperatures are not at the extremes. Due to minimal water evaporation, nutrients in the fertilizers will be best absorbed in the soil. So, the optimal time to apply fertilizers on the lawn is between 6 am to 10 am. Generally, applying fertilizer three to four times annually will work best for cool-season grasses, while for warm-season grasses, fertilizing three times a year will be good.
Step-by-Step Method For Lawn Fertilization
Properly fertilizing the lawn can help achieve a lush, green, and healthy yard. Follow these steps to ensure the fertilization of the lawn correctly:
1. Suitable Fertilizer
Selecting the appropriate fertilizer for the lawn requires extensive research by cultivators. The nutritional content of fertilizers is the determining factor while making a selection. The one with a higher nitrogen ratio is considered good, but checking the labels is recommended, too. A fertilizer with either water-insoluble nitrogen or a mix of water-soluble and water-insoluble nitrogen is preferable.
Water-insoluble nitrogen ensures slow nitrogen release in the soil, helping plants survive even in harsh conditions. Considering weather factors is also helpful, as potassium tends to improve plants' winter dormancy, making high-potassium fertilizers good options for fall fertilizers.
2. Soil Test
Before choosing a fertilizer, it is important to test the soil through a reliable center to determine which nutrients the lawn needs most. This helps growers to pick the right fertilizer without wasting time or effort. After knowing which nutrients are missing, growers can select the appropriate fertilizer.
3. Appropriate Time
The considerable time to apply fertilizer on a lawn depends on the type of plants growers have in their lawns. For cool-season grasses, growers fertilize the lawn during early fall and early spring to counter severe heat or cold. Meanwhile, warm-season grasses require fertilizer application during spring or mid-summer.
4. Mowing and Watering
For a fertilizer to work best on the lawn, gardeners recommend mowing as an important thing before fertilizer application. Clearing up all unnecessary debris and mowing the grass uniformly ensures the fertilizer is distributed evenly on the soil. Furthermore, soil with sufficient water supply best absorbs the essential nutrients from fertilizers instead of dry soil.
5. Apply the Fertilizer
Now, the fertilizer is applied and spread evenly with an effective spreader. Careful examination of the lawn is done so as not to leave any area unfertilized. Once the grower has applied fertilizer, the lawn is watered again to ensure nutrient absorption.
The Best Fall Fertilizers to Use
Fertilizers prepared for the fall season mostly contain nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen ensures healthy and lush green grass, while phosphorus maintains the roots' growth and strength. Potassium provides the capability to bear weather stress. Here are some of the best fall fertilizers to apply to the lawn to ensure optimal plant growth year round.
1. Lesco Starter Fertilizer With NOS
Lesco Starter Fertilizer with NOS is a great pick for lawn fertilizer in the fall, particularly for just established lawns. With the right nutrient ratio of 18-24-12, in which 18% nitrogen, 24% phosphorus, and 12% potassium, the fertilizer ensures every aspect of the lawn’s health. Another good thing about Lesco Starter Fertilizer is the organic matter in its composition that supports essential microbes in the soil while improving its quality. High phosphorus content is responsible for the fast development of roots, thus storing more nutrients to counter upcoming winters.
Nitrogen is released slowly and evenly into the soil over time, while a nitrogen optimization solution prevents nitrogen loss from the soil, giving Lesco Starter an edge over other fall fertilizers. Applying Lesco Starter with NOS organic is quite convenient for gardeners, as just throwing it evenly on the lawn and showering sufficient water is all they need. A single pack of 50 lb is enough for a lawn of 12000 square feet.
2. Jack Prof Fall Pansy FeED
For homeowners with Kentucky Bluegrass, Pansies, and Violas in their lawns, Jack Prof Fall Pansy FeED is an ideal option. The unique nutritional makeup of 17-3-19 shows 17% nitrogen, 3% phosphorus, and 19% potassium. The lesser phosphorus strengthens the already existing roots, while the higher potassium content makes the lawns more resistant to extreme winters.
Jack Prof Fall Pansy FeED’s lower phosphorus content makes it work best for well-rooted lawns while preventing soils from unnecessary phosphorus accumulation. Excessive potassium in this formula prevents lawns from dropping temperatures in winter and the frequent weeds and disease attacks in fall. Enough potassium is crucial for ensuring a durable lawn, which is often ignored in fertilizer preparation, which makes this fertilizer stand out among other fall fertilizers.
Gardeners don’t need much hassle to apply it on the lawn. All they have to do is moisten the dry soil, spread it evenly on the surface, and water the surface again to ensure the fertilizer’s absorption. One lb of this effective fertilizer is sufficient to apply to a lawn of 25000 square feet.
3. Jonathan Green 5M Winter Survival Fertilizer
Jonathan Green 5M Winter Survival Fertilizer offers the best nutritional ratio for gardeners struggling to keep newly seeded lawns healthy in winter. The 10% nitrogen from the nutritional ratio 10-0-20 regains the grass’ lost color due to excessive heat, while the grass' resistance to combat severe chills is due to the higher potassium levels of Jonathan Green.
Moreover, 20% potassium and the temperature in the fall are favorable for maximum root growth, which stores more nutrients and offers resilience in the coming cold winter. The presence of iron and sulfur in it is an additional factor ensuring healthier and lusher green lawn grass. Growers should consider early fall the ideal time to apply it. For optimal results, it is good to reapply after six weeks. Three lb of it is enough to fertilize a 1000 square-foot lawn.
4. Bonide 5M Fall Winterizer Lawn Food
With a nutritional makeup of 12-0-15, Bonide 5M Fall Winterizer Lawn Food offers slow-release nitrogen that eliminates gardeners’ worries about retaining soil nutrients. The nitrogen content continues to provide nutrients to soil even in extreme winter. This gradual release of nitrogen offers a slow but uniform color to grass with lasting health.
Similarly, higher potassium levels tend to recover the heat stress and prepare the lawn for winter dormancy. With the right application of this fertilizer, gardeners can increase the lawn's resistance to freezing winter while making it capable of quick recovery in suitable weather.
5. Ultimate Winterizer Fertilizer
Ultimate 18# Winterizer 22-3-10 Fertilizer is the best granular fall fertilizer to ensure lawn health in winter. Its abundant nitrogen makes it a good fit for keeping green established lawns healthy and winter-resistant while promoting plant density. Moreover, 11% sulfur and 7% iron are the additive factors in the nutritional value of Ultimate # 18 Winterizer. The 22-3-10 formula of nutrition lasts for six weeks in the slawn soil, and the 18lb pack is sufficient for 5000 square feet.
Things to Consider While Applying Lawn Fertilizer
Fertilizers are not just selected and applied randomly on the lawn; instead, a lot of factors need to be considered before actual application. Growers need to prepare their soil to uptake maximum nutrients when applying fertilizer. Here are a few things to consider while applying lawn fertilizer:
Type of Fertilizer
Granular vs. Liquid: Granular fertilizers are slow-release, providing nutrients over time, while liquid fertilizers deliver nutrients quickly. Granular fertilizers are beneficial for long-term nourishment, while liquid fertilizers are ideal for a quick boost.
Organic vs. Synthetic: Organic fertilizers improve soil structure and are environmentally friendly, but they work slower than synthetic fertilizers, which offer immediate nutrient availability. Organic options include compost, manure, and bone meal, while synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured and can provide precise nutrient ratios.
Nutrient Content
Check the N-P-K ratio (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) on the fertilizer bag. Different lawns have different nutrient requirements, so choose a formula that meets the lawn's needs. Nitrogen promotes leaf growth, phosphorus supports root development, and potassium enhances overall health and disease resistance.
Lawn Size
Measure the lawn area to determine the correct amount of fertilizer needed. Over-application can damage the grass and contribute to environmental pollution. Too much fertilizer can lead to nutrient runoff, harming local waterways and ecosystems.
Active Growth
Homeowners need to fertilize their lawns when the grass is in the phase of active growth, as this is when fertilizer works at its best. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the important components of any fertilizer and are needed for plant growth.
Soil Aeration
Fertilizer applied after a prolonged and excessive summer is not as effective because the soil's nutrient uptake is quite low due to soil compaction. Before fertilizer application, aerating the lawn’s soil well is good so the nutritional content effectively gets distributed in the deeper roots and soil.
Importance of Nitrogen
Nitrogen is the most important nutrient in fertilizer for making lawns green and healthy. Fertilizers have nitrogen in two forms: water-soluble and water-insoluble. The best fertilizers usually combine both types. This combination slowly releases nitrogen into the soil, helping the lawn stay healthy for a longer time. At the same time, water-soluble fertilizers are cheaper but not as effective as the combined type.
Environmental Impact
Consider the environmental impact of fertilizer choice. Opt for slow-release or organic options to reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality. Slow-release fertilizers release nutrients gradually, minimizing the risk of leaching into groundwater. Organic fertilizers, derived from natural sources, improve soil health and reduce the environmental footprint.
Benefits of Applying Fertilizers In Fall
Applying fertilizers in the fall offers several advantages to help the lawn stay healthy and thrive in the colder months and the following spring. Here are some key benefits:
Strengthens Roots
Fall fertilizers focus on root development. Strengthened roots help grass absorb more nutrients and water, making it more resilient during winter. This deeper root system allows the grass to access water and nutrients stored in the soil, helping it survive the dormancy period and emerge stronger in the spring.
Repairs Summer Damage
The summer heat can cause stress and damage to the lawn, leading to thin, patchy areas and weakened grass. Fall fertilization helps repair this damage by providing essential nutrients that promote healthy growth. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture in the fall create ideal conditions for the grass to recover and rebuild, resulting in a thicker, more robust lawn.
Promotes Healthy Growth
Fertilizers applied in the fall provide a steady supply of nutrients that help grass grow thicker and greener. This sets a strong foundation for the spring growth period. The consistent nutrient availability ensures that the grass can photosynthesize effectively, leading to a dense and vibrant lawn that is better equipped to withstand pests and diseases.
Enhances Winter Hardiness
Fertilizing in the fall prepares the lawn for the winter months by increasing its cold tolerance. This helps the grass survive freezing temperatures and recover quickly in the spring. Fall fertilizers often contain potassium, strengthening cell walls and improving the grass's resilience to cold, drought, and disease.
Improves Nutrient Storage
Grass stores nutrients during the fall, which it uses during the winter dormancy period. A well-fertilized lawn can draw on these reserves, leading to healthier and more vigorous spring growth. This nutrient storage acts like a reserve tank, providing the grass with the essential elements it needs to kickstart growth as soon as the weather warms up.
Reduces Weed Growth
A healthy, well-fed lawn is more competitive against weeds. Fall fertilization helps the grass grow stronger and denser, which can crowd out weeds and prevent them from taking hold. A dense lawn creates a physical barrier that makes it difficult for weed seeds to germinate and establish, reducing the need for chemical weed control.
Balances Soil Nutrients
Fall fertilizers help balance the soil's nutrient levels, ensuring the lawn has the right nutrients for optimal growth. This can correct deficiencies and improve overall soil health. Balanced soil nutrients support microbial activity and soil structure, creating a more sustainable environment for the lawn to thrive.
Prepares for Spring
By fertilizing in the fall, growers set the stage for a lush and vibrant lawn in the spring. The nutrients provided in the fall promote early spring growth, leading to a healthier and more attractive lawn. As temperatures rise, the well-prepared lawn will green up quickly and be ready to enjoy sooner.
Additional Lawn Care Tips for Fall
Organic matter added through composting maximizes the lawn’s health, but repetitive application forms a thick layer of topsoil called thatch. It prevents nutrients from going down the soil while curbing plant growth. Prolonged build-up may give rise to several insects and plant diseases. Removing this thatch via regular lawn clean-up is required to keep the lawn healthy.
Best mowing practices and frequent watering are other crucial aspects of lawn care and maintenance. Before the winter starts, growers prefer to water the lawn more often to compensate for the soil suffering from heat stress. Also, fall is the best time to expand the lawn; therefore, growers can germinate new seeds, preferably in the fall.
Above all lawn care strategies, cleaning up the lawn is another major step to promoting healthy and appealing green space. Clearing up fallen leaves and debris and treating diseased and discolored patches are also to be considered.
FAQs
What is the best nutritional profile for fall fertilizers?
An ideal nutritional profile for fall fertilizer should contain sufficient nitrogen but not too high, as summer fertilizers do. Lower levels of phosphorus are crucial for supporting roots, but soils with already existing phosphorus need to get fertilizers with 0% phosphorus.
What are the easiest and quickest plants to grow on the lawn?
Ryegrass, Fescue, and Zoysia are the most convenient plants to grow on the lawn, with a few days of germination time. Mint and pansies are also ideal picks for growing on home lawns.
How are spring and fall fertilization distinct from each other?
Spring fertilization differs entirely from the fall. While applying fall fertilizers, the primary focus is to develop winter resistance to the plants growing on the lawn and lessen the heat impacts of intense summer. However, fertilizer application during spring is intended to promote plant growth.
The Bottom Line
Using the proper fall fertilizers to prepare the lawn for cold is essential to having a colorful, thriving lawn throughout the year. Fall fertilizers can overcome the summer heat and prepare the lawn for the upcoming hard winters by emphasizing root growth and winter tolerance. By selecting fertilizers with the proper ratio of nutrients, such as potassium for resisting stress and nitrogen for greening, homeowners can improve their lawn grass's endurance, color, and general condition. Smart fertilization and strategic scheduling are essential to maintaining a lush and lovely yard.
Explore Growcycle to find the best fall fertilizers. They have high-quality fall fertilizers, along with all the fertilizer equipments and knowledge for effective lawn care. Also, they offer comprehensive guidance and expert tips on essential lawn care and fertilizer applications.
Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.
About the Author
Victor Miller 
Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture
Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, where he covers the latest news, trends, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. He has a deep passion for storytelling that emphasizes ecological balance and responsible farming practices.
Before joining Growcycle, Victor worked for several agricultural and environmental publications, reporting on significant environmental issues and interviewing key figures in the sustainability sector. His work has been featured in various industry journals and online platforms.
