Then, an early June application is all that is needed to supply the turfs needs through the summer. Grass leaves grow most when daytime temperatures are between 60-75 o F. Fertilization during this period causes a dramatic increase in leaf growth. Not only does this increase the frequency of mowing required, but it also increases the amount of carbohydrate available to the leaves. Overfertilization with nitrogen results in new leaf growth that is very soft, making the plant more susceptible to heat and drought stress, and increased disease and insect attack. It encourages strong root growth and proper plant development.
Nitrogen fertilizers are of two general types, fast and stow release.
In the Tahoe Basin, the preferred fertilizer type is slow release because it is less likely to pollute streams and the Lake, stimulating unsightly algae growth. Therefore, this is a medium release fertilizer. How Much Fertilizer Turfgrasses in the Tahoe Basin should be fertilized spring and fall at the rate of 1 lb. of actual nitrogen for each 1000 square feet. Applications at greater rates can have harmful side effects to the grass and to local water resources. To fertilize at this rate, some simple calculations are required.