If you have a clay soil, the more frequent, shorter irrigations might be necessary to avoid runoff. If you have a sandy loam soil, you might be able to apply 1 inch per application, and all of the water applied will move into the root zone. Fertilizing Applying the right amount of fertilizer at the right time is important in maintaining healthy, weed-free turf throughout the year. Even if you prefer a low-input lawn, you still should fertilize once or twice a year in order to maintain a relatively healthy lawn that can compete with most weed species and survive disease and insect infestations. Three different fertilization schedules are shown in the chart below, corresponding to high, medium, and low turf quality.
Solid bars indicate approximate times when fertilizer is most beneficial.
Dotted bars indicate optional applications. December applications result in greener grass in winter and early spring, but might make it necessary to mow occasionally throughout the winter. Solid bars indicate the times when fertilizer is most beneficial. Dotted bars indicate optional applications. To apply 1 lb of N, you need to apply 5 lb of this fertilizer.