As spring approaches, landscape designers, architects and contractors become busy and can have weeks or even months of work already scheduled. The earlier a project gets on the schedule the better, even if the work does not need to be completed until summer or fall. If fertilization or strict pest control can result in the necessary improvements, managers can begin developing an application strategy by researching available products and identifying those that will work best for their conditions. For example, one application of a slow-release fertilizer might provide enough nitrogen for six to eight weeks, reducing the number of applications. Fewer applications save time, cut product costs, enhance turf growth and provide more consistent color.
Managers have many formulations of slow-release fertilizers and custom blends from which to choose.
Different formulations and methods of release are better for certain soils and climactic conditions, so it is important to determine the types that will perform best on a given site before buying. Managers can benefit from making an earlier decision on fertilizer quantity because many dealers give discounts for early orders or quantities. Often, delivery can be timed as the product is needed, which can mean better product availability and fewer storage demands. But if space for proper storage is not a problem, it might be most cost-effective to have the yearly supply of fertilizer delivered at one time. The same strategy also will work for pesticides.