The best time to fertilize your lawn is in the spring, when the soil temperature      reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit. You'll know when the soil warms up to 55 because the lilacs begin to blossom and the grass starts growing. Fertilizing is essential to achieve a healthy, green lawn.

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The law prohibited in the State of WA. the used of only turf fertilizers that contain phosphorus it became effective on January 1, 2013, This law is an attempt to reduce the amount of phosphorus entering water bodies via surface runoff and storm drains.

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All fertilizers use a three number rating system,

like 15-15-15, or 21-7-14.

The first number represents Nitrogen, the second is

Phosphorous, the third is Potassium (or Potash).

These numbers are percentages of the total ingredients

in the bag. (In case you forget the order, the words are

alphabetical, although the letters are not!)

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Why Do The Fertilizer Numbers Matter?

 

A brief description of each major nutrient will show why grass

has its own preference for fertilizer.

 

Nitrogen:

• essential for growth of foliage;

• produces lush, tender, green leaves (or grass blades);

• deficiency results in a yellow-green color (chlorosis) and little or no growth;

• is easily flushed through the soil.

Phosphorous:

• stimulates root growth;

• hastens the maturity of plants;

• promotes development of flowers, fruits, seeds;

• deficiency can result in slow or stunted growth and purplish discoloration on leaves;

• remains in the soil quite well.

Potassium:

• gives vigor to tolerate changing weather conditions;

• helps resist disease;

• assists in the food manufacturing process;

• strengthens cell wall structure for strong stems;

• deficiency can cause week stems and slow growth;

• leaches from the soil, not so fast as nitrogen.

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