How to Apply Lawn Turf Fertiliser

Is your lawn looking a bit dull? More yellow than vivid green? Fertiliser may be the answer you are looking for.

This guide will go through what fertiliser is (just in case you want a more definitive answer), when to and when not to use it and a few other helpful tips. Your tired looking lawn will soon be a thing of the past!

Firstly, we’ll start with a quick description of what exactly fertiliser is and what it consists of.

Fertiliser typically contains three key things:

• Nitrogen (N) - Promotes leafy, vigorous growth.
• Phosphorus (P) - Supports strong root development.
• Potassium (K) - Aids overall plant health and build resistance to disease. 

Fertiliser can contain either organic or synthetic materials, or a combination of both in different quantities to give the desired affect. It is worth noting that these three elements are not the only ones needed for plant health. Iron, Sulphur, Magnesium, Calcium and a whole host of others elements are all needed but typically in smaller amounts. 

What's the Difference Between Man-Made and Organic Fertiliser?

Organic

Organic fertiliser is made from natural plant and animal materials. It releases nutrients slowly, making it ideal for long term soil health. However, it typically contains lower concentrations of nitrogen, so you may need larger quantities to match the effectiveness of synthetic alternatives.

Man-made

Also known as synthetic or chemical fertiliser, this type is designed with a very high nutrient content particularly nitrogen. While it works quickly and can deliver rapid results, it also comes with a higher risk of fertiliser burn. This occurs when over application damages the very plants it is meant to help. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance for best results.

How to Apply Fertiliser

Applying fertiliser couldn’t be easier. The main 4 ways of applying are:

• Top application – This involves spreading fertiliser across the surface of turf or soil, often early in the season to boost initial growth.
• Single plant application – as the name suggests this is where fertiliser is applied to single plants/leaves which could be affected by malnourishment. This can be done with a paint brush to make sure only the affected area is covered. It ensures that scorching of the rest of the leaves does not take place.
• Base application – this is where we apply fertiliser to the base layer of soil which is ready to take new plants or turf. It helps get the new plants/turf off to a good start with all the nutrients it needs to thrive.
• Liquid application – this is a great method for smaller areas and it will give immediate nutrients to the plants. As the fertiliser is applied via a spray bottle, the application is much more concentrated to a specific area.

When to use fertiliser?

In order to encourage growth, it is not always necessary to apply nutrients in the form of fertilisers. Over the years the general consensus seems to be that fertilisers are needed at every step of the way and that they will fix all problems. This is not the case. Grasses can survive rain or shine in the most inhospitable places on earth without fertilisers however they are needed in some instances when the following is required.

• A visually appealing lawn that is fine and has consistency throughout.
• For additional nutrients after removing clippings from lawn.
• Protection for areas with heavy footfall
• For that vivid green lawn that has the wow factor
• To persuade growth following damage
• For speedy growth of seedlings
• If we require unwanted plants to be discouraged.

Too much of a good thing?

Too much fertiliser can be detrimental and can result in something called "fertiliser burn" this is where the plant leaves are scorched due to excessive amounts of nitrogen. The result on the plant will cause the leaves to dry out and in extreme cases, cause the plant to die.

Inconsistent fertilising can lead to;

• Fertiliser burn
• Inconsistent colour
• Increased cost due to more product being applied
• Inconsistent growth rate