Keep spring nitrogen rates low to prioritize root growth

What to Do

Limit spring nitrogen to no more than 0.5 lb of actual nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft. Save the heavier applications (0.75-1 lb N per 1,000 sq ft) for fall, which is the most important fertilization window for cool-season grasses.

Why It Works

Virginia Tech Extension emphasizes that high spring nitrogen rates produce lush, dark green top growth at the expense of root development. This creates a lawn that looks great initially but is shallow-rooted and vulnerable to summer heat, drought, and disease.

Tips

• Ohio State recommends a late summer/fall (September) and late fall (November) fertilization schedule as most beneficial for home lawns.
• If you only fertilize once a year, make it September, not spring.