How do I fertilize well??
First off, don’t be embarrassed. Physically applying fertilizer to your lawn is a skill that many people have never actually done, but most people assume that all adults in the US seem to know how to do it.
Drop spreader striping - this also illustrates that product that is applied to plants tends not to leach. Be very intentional about keeping product off of impermeable surfaces.
Here are some Pro Tips for you to consider as you prepare to perform this new skill.
Always keep your spreader clean. Residual products left in your spreader can corrode surfaces, impacting the accuracy of the spreader over time.
Do not use a drop spreader unless you are very experienced. Rotary spreaders are far more forgiving and less likely to streak.
Put down the right product at the right rate at the right time. If you do not know what you should be applying, how much, or when, call us and we will give you coaching. 319-842-2165.
Remember to be very careful about where you look for information on feeding. YouTube videos can be made by anyone (regardless of knowledge base) in any part of the world. At least make a point to search for credible sources, like university extension offices. Also, keep in mind that different climates and soil types need different products at different rates and times of year. Be sure to speak with experts in your region for advice that is better suited to your location.
MEASURE MEASURE MEASURE your lawn. Take a measuring wheel or a measuring tape into your lawn and actually measure the areas you are trying to feed. It is not possible to feed responsibly unless you know the square footage of the area you are trying to feed. Square footage can be found if you multiply the length x width. Write down the number and keep it in your phone or in your garage where you can always find it.
Calibrate your spreader to ensure that the correct amount of product is being applied. This is easier than it sounds. Instructions can be found here.
Congratulations! You are ready to start spreading the product! Here are Pro Tips to keep in mind for physically spreading fertilizer.
“Zebra stripes” from a rotary spreader. This person left too large of spacing in between each pass. Try to get a 10% overlap on each side for even application.
Mow first. By mowing first you are giving yourself some guidelines and visual references
Some products need to get rained/watered in to be activated. Some products need to be applied to wet leaves in order to be most effective. Make sure you know what type of product you are working with so you and your plants see the maximum benefit for your efforts.
For each bag, fill the hopper (the bin where the product goes) when you are on a solid surface (like a driveway) that is easy to clean if you spill.
Look at the map below. The black arrows on the west and east sides of this lawn are what we call “End Rows”. Start by making two end rows on two edges of your area. This will give you space to get up to speed before opening your hopper and to close your hopper and turn around.
Walk at a consistent speed across your lawn. This may mean you need to be strategic about not spreading fertilizer while pushing up a hill/being pulled down a hill. Move as consistently as you can.
Try to aim for a 10% overlap on each pass. This will give you an nice even feeding that will help you avoid striping.
Never leave your hopper open when you are turning around. You are slower when you turn around and this may lead to fertilizer burn.
Don’t be that person who “just uses up the entire bag” when your lawn is finished. If you have measured your lawn, you should know exactly how many pounds of product should be used. We call fertilizer overuse the “moron approach”. Keep in mind that putting “more on” is not always the best idea for your lawn or an ecosystem.
When you are finished, never leave product on impermeable surfaces (like a driveway, road, or a sidewalk). Use a broom or a leaf blower to blow the granules into the lawn. This simple practice has a huge impact on reducing run off that pollutes water systems.
Follow any reentry recommendations for the product.
