The Grass Doctor

When should I apply fertilizer again?

I put weed n feed on my lawn 5 weeks ago. I have 2 bags of just plain scotts turf fertilizer. Should I put it down in a week or two when it's still a time of the year when we get rain? I live in Kansas City. Thanks!

Public Comments

1. 5 weeks should be enough time to apply a new fertilizer if it's had enough rain to dissolve and soak into the ground. You can walk through your lawn and look for particles of fertilizer still remaining. If there isn't any, go ahead and apply a little bit more. If there is still some there, wait another week or two. I'm no expert, though.
2. You really shouldn't have to fertilize already, unless the grass doesn't look very nice. Overfertilizing only ends up causing you to have to mow more often! Save it for fall.
3. They recommend feeding your lawn 4 times a year. This is why they have the 4 step program. Once in the early spring, again in late spring or early summer and again in late summer and finally in the fall when you want to get the roots to grow to help over the winter. Look at the Scott's bag for the exact times and amounts for your area. Each bag contains different amounts of N_P_K for the growing cycle. A lawn should get at least 1 inch of water per week by rain or hose during dry periods. You should also check the pH and lime it once a year in the late fall or early spring. Grass likes a pH of 6.2 to 7.
4. You must only apply fertilizer after having an inspection of your garden..if you are confused after inspecting your garden that whether you apply fertilizer right now or not then i must advice you to stick with the basics which is apply fertilizers 4-5 times a year...