The Dos and Don'ts of Fertilizing Your Calgary Lawn: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Fertilizing your Calgary lawn might seem like a straightforward task, but there's more to it than just spreading some fertilizer and hoping for the best.

To keep your lawn lush and green, you need to know the dos and don'ts of fertilizing. It’s like preparing a gourmet meal for your lawn. Done right, it’ll thrive. Done wrong, and you’ll have a patchy mess.

Calgary's Unique Lawn Care Challenges

Calgary's weather can be a tough nut to crack. With sudden snowfalls to dry, scorching summers, your lawn needs special attention. Being one step ahead is crucial for effective fertilization.

Calgary's soils are often alkaline and can be clay-heavy, impacting nutrient absorption. This means a tailored fertilization schedule is a must to match the city’s unique weather patterns and soil conditions. Common issues here include poor soil drainage, compacted soil, and the occasional invasion of dandelions and other hardy weeds.

The Dos of Fertilizing Your Lawn

Do Fertilize at the Right Time

Timing is everything when it comes to fertilizing your lawn. In Calgary, the best seasons for fertilization are spring (after your lawn begins to actively grow) and fall. In Fall, it’s best to fertilize well before the first frost. We wouldn’t recommend fertilizing after the first heavy snowfall because of the risk of the ground being frozen solid and the nutrients not being able to be completely absorbed by your soil.

For more information on fertilizing in the fall, check out our blog Why Should I Fertilize My Yard in the Fall?

Fertilizing at these times ensures your lawn absorbs nutrients when it needs them most, promoting healthy growth.

Do Use the Right Type of Fertilizer

Slow-release fertilizers are excellent for providing a steady supply of nutrients over time. Organic fertilizers enrich the soil with natural materials, improving soil structure and health. Selecting the right type of fertilizer ensures your lawn gets the nutrients it needs in a form it can readily use.

Do Follow Proper Application Techniques

Proper application techniques can make a world of difference. Use a broadcast spreader for even distribution, and apply the fertilizer in a crisscross pattern to cover all areas thoroughly. Water your lawn after fertilizing to help the nutrients penetrate the soil and reach the roots.

Do Monitor Lawn Health Regularly

Regular monitoring helps you catch nutrient deficiencies early. Look for signs like yellowing grass, slow growth, or patchy areas. Based on your observations, adjust your fertilization routine and address specific needs.

Do Consider the Lawn's Age and Condition

Adjusting your fertilization techniques based on whether your lawn is new or established is crucial for optimal growth. Newly seeded or sodded lawns require special care, including lighter, more frequent applications of fertilizer to help young grass establish strong roots.

For established lawns, a regular fertilization schedule with the appropriate type and amount of fertilizer will maintain its health and appearance.

Do Consult with Professionals

Sometimes, the best way to ensure your lawn gets the care it needs is to consult with professionals. Our GreenKeepers create tailored fertilization plans specific to your lawn’s requirements.

We offer comprehensive lawn care services, from weed control to customized fertility programs, ensuring your lawn remains lush and green throughout the year. Letting the pros handle it can save you time and effort while guaranteeing optimal results.

The Don'ts of Fertilizing Your Lawn

Don't Over-Fertilize

Lawn fertilization is a science. Apply too much, and you risk harming your lawn; too little, and it won’t help your lawn much.

To avoid this problem, follow the recommended application rates on the fertilizer package and spread the fertilizer evenly. If you're unsure, it's better to apply less and reapply if necessary than to risk overloading your lawn with nutrients.

Don't Fertilize Before Heavy Rain

Heavy rain can wash away freshly applied fertilizer before it has a chance to be absorbed by your lawn. To ensure your lawn gets the most out of fertilization, check the weather forecast and choose a day when heavy rain is not expected. If it’s light showers, it’s not a problem.

If you must fertilize before a rainstorm, try to do it at least 24 hours in advance to give the fertilizer time to settle into the soil.

Don't Mow After Fertilizing

Mowing can disturb the fertilizer application, leading to uneven distribution and reduced effectiveness. Fertilize after mowing to give the nutrients time to settle into the soil without interference.

By allowing the fertilizer to properly integrate, you ensure that your lawn receives the full benefits of the nutrients, leading to healthier, more robust grass.

Don't Ignore Safety Precautions

When people take on the task themselves, here’s what we recommend: Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions on the label. Wear gloves and protective clothing when applying fertilizer to prevent skin contact. We’re not sure what kind of fertilizer you’re using, so it’s better to be safe.

Here, at Green Drop, we use scientifically backed fertilizers tailored to your lawn's specific conditions and Alberta's climate. Our fertilizers, including our SoilBooster™, are formulated to be safe for both pets and children.

Don't Skip Maintenance

Fertilization is just one part of a comprehensive lawn care routine. Regular maintenance such as mowing, aerating, and watering are essential to keep your lawn healthy.

Neglecting these tasks can undermine fertilization benefits. For example, failing to mow your lawn regularly can lead to thatch build-up, which prevents fertilizer from reaching the soil. Similarly, poor watering practices can wash away nutrients or prevent them from being absorbed.

Don't Fertilize Dormant Lawns

In Calgary, lawns typically enter dormancy during the cold winter months. Fertilizing during these times can be ineffective and even detrimental, as the grass is not actively growing and cannot utilize the nutrients. It's important to fertilize when the lawn is actively growing to ensure the nutrients are effectively absorbed and used.

Fertilize Your Way to a Fabulous Lawn with Green Drop

Ready to give your lawn the star treatment it deserves? With the right lawn fertilization techniques, your Calgary lawn can be the envy of the neighbourhood.

Don’t gamble with guesswork, let Green Drop’s lawn care packages handle the heavy lifting. Our GreenKeepers are here to help you achieve a lush, healthy lawn all year round.

So why wait? Book your premium lawn care package today, and let’s turn your yard into a green paradise. Remember, the grass is always greener with Green Drop!