Fall lawn care tips

Many of us feed our lawns at the first signs of spring, but did you know that autumn is the most important time to fertilize?

A lawn fed three to four times a year develops a deep root system to resist heat, drought and wear. It also develops thick green top growth to naturally resist weeds, disease and insects.

Feeding before the ground freezes, but after the lawn no longer needs mowing, will give your lawn the extra nutrients it needs during our long, cold winters.

Look for a fertilizer with higher nitrogen and potassium, the first and last numbers on the bag. These are the nutrients that help promote a stronger root structure, disease resistance and hardiness in cold weather. A properly fed lawn produces a deeper root structure, capable of reaching water deep in the soil.

Here are some tips to help you put your lawn to bed for the winter:

- Review your options at a lawn and garden centre by reading the bag. Look for higher nitrogen (N) and potassium (P) ratios.

- Use a quality lawn fertilizer spreader or handheld model to ensure even feeding.

- Don’t apply if heavy rain is expected, and ensure the last application is on before the ground is frozen.

- Fertilizer can only do its job if it’s on your lawn or garden. Sweep any fertilizer that lands on sidewalks or driveways back onto the lawn, avoiding sewers and waterways.

You can safely use any leftover fertilizer next year, because fertilizer doesn’t expire as long as it’s kept dry. Find more tips for maintaining your lawn’s health online at greenerworld.ca.

(www.newscanada.com)