The Grass Doctor

What is a good lawn fertilizer to use?

I used Menards Weed and Feed and more weeds ended up growing than were already there..I need help with this subkect of fertilizing the lawn

Public Comments

1. go to Scott's website, I think it is Scotts.com, enter the type of grass you have or problems and they will direct you to the proper Scott's product. They even email me 4 times a year and say it is time for me to fertilize.
2. Talk to your local landscaper(s). They can give you hints, ideas, or even come by and recommend something. Or try this website: http://www.simplot.com/turf/index.cfm good luck
3. It depends where you live exactly, and what type or types of greass you are fertilizing.... Also, what exact process are you using to fertilize?
4. Milorganite is a great organic fertilizer. It won't burn and lasts up to 3 months. Weed & Feed fertilizers are dangerous to your trees, shrubs, pets, & kids.
5. Go to your local landscape supplier and get straight ammonium nitrate. LIGHTLY cover your yard and do not water immediately after. In about 6-8 days your grass be thick, lucious, and the greenest on the block. Too much and you will have no yard at all.
6. Any slow release fertilizer is good. You do need to be very careful with "weed and feed" types. Many of these can harm or kill shrubs and trees. Read the directions on the bag very carefully. Most say to not apply under the drip line of trees. I personally use Scots and have for 35 years.
7. It depends on what your objective is for fertilization. Avoid using "weed and feed" if your objective is to simply fertilize the lawn. If weeds are your concern then I would research some products for the specific weeds that you are finding in your yard. In terms of fertilizers, it also depends on your objective. If you're talking about an early fall fertilization then your options are practically limitless. As it gets later in the fall, stay away from slow release fertilizers as remaining fertilizer will promote foliar growth instead of winter storage, as this can be very detrimental to the grass' survival through the winter. Any variety of fertilizers will work, and make sure to water in to prevent the next down pour from washing into your neighborhood drain water and eventually perhaps to your ground water or local streams and rivers. Don't over water though ;)
8. Fertilizer requirements vary by region. In humid areas a slow-release type such as Milorganite or coated fertilizer is best (water-soluble products may be used for quick green-up). In arid regions a 'fertigation' program is more appropriate, but beware of salt buildup and look for fertilizers that don't have chlorides or sulfates. In areas where soils are sandy or winters are cold enough to force dormancy, use a high-potassium product such as 3-5-15 or 6-4-36. -Tony