How
There are a variety of ways to fertilize. Small areas can be fertilised using a gloved hand, while it is best to use a broadcast or drop spreader for larger areas. From experience a broadcast spreader gives a more even distribution and makes it easier to set the rate for the finer granulated fertilizers.
When
Slow Release fertilisers are by far the best for turf grasses. They provide a slow, constant release of nitrogen over an 8 to 10 week period.
The nitrogen release rate; how fast the nitrogen is released determines not only how fast the grass will green up, but also how much it will grow and how long the results will last. Lawn grasses require a steady, controlled feeding to produce a thick, green lawn. Controlled-release fertilizers deliver just enough quick-release nitrogen to produce fast greening, while the balance is released gradually, by microbial action in the soil, over a period of approximately eight weeks. As a result, the lawn is fed continuously, so there is a constant supply of nitrogen for the grass plants. Turf Grasses in South Australia are best fed 4 times a year using slow release fertilizer.
Where
If you live in an area where the soil is very sandy and does not hold water well it will not hold fertilizer near the root zone and more frequent fertilizing may be necessary. Poor soil quality allows for leaching, not only of water but fertilizer and also insecticide, and we recommend the soil quality be addressed at the time of preparation.
Why
To keep your lawn healthy, green, weed free and insect tolerant it needs to be fertilized. A healthy, strong lawn will act as a weed mat and help to choke out germinating seeds. If you don’t keep your lawn healthy and allow it to become sparse the tendency for weed germination becomes very prevalent. Added to this, exposed areas tend to dry out fast and black beetle infestations will become a common occurrence. Remember – healthy lawns use less water.
Summary
Fertilize 4 times a year using Slow Release Fertilizer.
Apply granulated fertilizer to a dry leaf then water in well.
Apply as per manufacturers directions. Applying less than the recommended rate will lessen the effectiveness of the product, while over fertilizing may cause leaf burn.
Correct watering and fertilizing programmes will go a long way to giving you the best lawn in the street.
Recommendation
We recommend Baileys Brilliance or Sir Walter Fertilizer for all couch, kikuyu and buffalo lawns. Both proven, efficient fertilising products. Home delivery available.