Wait until you have mowed twice before fertilizing

What to Do

Do not rush to fertilize as soon as the lawn greens up. Wait until you have mowed the lawn at least twice, which ensures the grass is actively growing and can actually use the nutrients.

Why It Works

Wisconsin Extension recommends this as a simple timing rule. Early fertilization pushes lush top growth while roots are still developing, creating a lawn that looks great in April but collapses under summer heat and drought. Waiting lets roots establish first.

Tips

• For most northern lawns, this means fertilizing no earlier than late April to mid-May.
• K-State Extension goes further, recommending that spring fertilizer be greatly reduced or eliminated entirely for cool-season lawns.