To feed or not to feed, that is the question?

fertilizer is Phosphorus. This ingredient is frequently a “0” unless you are using a new seeding-starter type fertilizer formula. Phosphorous is frequently tied up in the soil and not available to the plant, so we do not want to introduce more than we need. No-Phosphorus formula fertilizers also help reduce water quality issues. You need Phosphorus when seeding or sodding for best results, such as a 12-188 formula. Potash, the last number listed on a fertilizer bag, promotes plant hardiness and stress relief. Frequently this number is low unless you are using a fall-winter feeding formula like 10-0-20.

At this time of year, you need to consider if you want to apply to your lawn a fertilizer plus crabgrass preventer product. These are referred to as “combination” products since they do two things with one application to your lawn. If you have had a crabgrass problem over the years, you should consider this strategy. Crabgrass only grows in sunny areas of the lawn and germinates when soil temperatures reach about 55 degrees. If you have a thick, healthy growing lawn, perhaps you do not need to apply crabgrass preventer over every inch of your lawn year after year. When you grow a great lawn, you can reduce the need for fertilizers and chemicals on your lawn. Preemergent crabgrass products work by interrupting the crabgrass seeds from properly germinating and establishing. Do not apply them too early in the spring if weather patterns are cold and rainy. If this happens, this will delay soil temperatures from reaching 55 degrees. Pre-emergence controls applied too early can “run-out-of-gas” in late spring when crabgrass can still be germinating. Be sure to follow label directions, and most preemergent controls should not be applied when seeding. Apply grass seed in spring to bare spots or to upgrade your whole lawn before the hot summer weather arrives. Prepare the area to be seeded properly by scratching the soil to loosen it up. Compact soil can reduce successful seeding efforts. Be sure to achieve good seed-to-soil contact for best