Feeding your lawn
Although your lawn may be growing well in early Spring, it is important to feed it. This will produce a strong root structure which will also create strong blades of grass , keeping out moss and weeds. The bright green appearance will be maintained over the summer months and it will help the lawn to become resistant to disease.
Fertilizers:
Spring/Summer fertilizers contain nitrogen for top growth and green grass. They are sold in granular and liquid form. Follow manufacturers' instructions for distribution on the lawn.
Autumn fertilizers contain potash and phosphates. This produces strong roots giving your lawn a good start in the spring, helping to keep disease away. Apply from September onwards, following the manufacturers' instructions.
Lawn fertilizers must be spread evenly, otherwise scorching will occur. Application can be by hand or a mechanical spreader which can be purchased or hired.
Wash out equipment well after use, as fertilizer can eat into the metal parts. Care must be taken when using the spreader to ensure you do not miss any part of the lawn. By the same token, do not go over the same piece of lawn twice, as scorching will occur, resulting in patchiness.
Spread fertilizers when the soil is moist, in the Spring time. It is important that fertilizers get washed into the soil, so try and apply when rain is forecast. If no rain falls within, say, 3-4 days you will have to water the fertilizer using a form of irrigation.
Liquid fertilizers can be applied with a watering can fitted with a rose. Take care to apply the fertilizer evenly to ensure best results. You also need to take care not to double up by passing over the same area twice. This will scorch the lawn, giving patchy results. Follow the manufacturers' instructions for the water/fertilizer ratio.
Notes:
Always wear gloves when handling fertilizers and wear a suitable mask when spraying. Wash hands after use. Never smoke, eat or drink whilst working with fertilizers. Wash all equipment thoroughly after use.