Now's the time to feed your lawn

This time of year, your lawn is beginning to go dormant. This means the grass isn't growing as vigorously, there's less top growth and typically, you're mowing less frequently. While top growth has slowed down, grass roots are still very active storing nutrients, getting ready for the winter ahead.  All this activity at the root level makes this the ideal time to feed your lawn. Applying lawn fertilizer in October benefits your turf by strengthening the root system and getting the grass ready for winter. 

The most important nutrient for fall lawns is Nitrogen, the first number listed on the bag. Fertilome Winterizer contains 25% Nitrogen, plus Potassium to help your lawn absorb and store the fertilizer you apply now.  The biggest benefit of feeding your lawn now comes next spring when the lawn emerges from its dormant state and has enough nutrients stored in the roots to feed the grass. Your lawn will green-up and have stronger top growth early in the spring season, when you fertilize now.  After applying winterizer fertilizer, water your lawn thoroughly.

This is also a good time to add organic material to your lawn. Compost and peat moss can be applied in thin layers to improve the soil your turf is growing in. This is called "top dressing" your lawn.

Humates are also a good source of organic material. HuMic is a granular product that will break down clay, improve soil structure and increase microbial activity in the soil. Adding HuMic helps your grass take up nutrients more effectively and stay greener with less water. 

Core aeration is as valuable in the fall, as it is in the spring. Aerating the lawn this time of year helps overcome compaction and makes it easier for water, fertilizer and organic material to get down to the roots. You can do aeration yourself or hire it done. Just make sure you get a good core extraction.

Over the next few weeks, gradually lower your mower's height so that the last cutting on the lawn will be about an 1" to 1.5" tall.

During the winter, use a simple sprinkler to water your lawn. This will also benefit the trees and shrubs planted in or near your lawn.

Winter watering is especially important where the lawn and trees are surrounded by sidewalks and streets. Do this when the temperature is above 40°F.

Taking these steps now will help ensure a healthier, greener lawn next spring.