Live in Reno? It can be challenging to know when to fertilize your lawn, let alone take care of any flowers and plants you have.

Of course, a healthy, well-looked-after lawn can make the difference between an attractive-looking  (property) and one that looks neglected.

Front yards, in particular, can reflect the overall house if the lawn is left patchy, dry, and generally unkempt!

Living in (Northern) Nevada, where summers are dry, and the winters are cold - coupled with Reno receiving just nine inches of rain on average per year - can make it particularly difficult to decide when to fertilize your lawn.

This simple guide, however, will tell you everything you need to know about fertilizing your lawn in Reno, as well as why fertilization is essential!

Why Is It Important to Fertilize Your Lawn?

Fertilizing your lawn is vital for several reasons. Aside from simply maintaining a healthy, lush, and attractive-looking lawn, lawn fertilization is beneficial to the other plants in your yard.

It is also the greenest and most cost-effective way to take care of your lawn and improve the overall appearance of your house and lot.

Like our bodies, our lawns need nutrients to grow and stay healthy. A healthy dense lawn will help prevent turf diseases and encroachment of unwanted weeds.

Controlled growth of lawns is key when choosing fast vs. slow release fertilizers.  If not done properly excessive thatch can lead to poor infiltration, higher potential for disease, spongie surface, and higher water usage.    

In addition to fertilizing your lawn, you can maintain its appearance and prevent lawn damage by avoiding the following: 

• watering too frequently or at incorrect times 

• leaving clutter (toys, garden tools, sporting equipment, etc.) on your lawn

• cutting your lawn too short

• not watering enough, or having uneven irrigation coverage

• too much shade/lack of sun

• chemical damage (arising from cleaning your house, patio, or driveway)

When to Fertilize Your Lawn in Reno

Spring is the best time to fertilize your lawn if you live in Reno. In general, this is the best time to fertilize your lawn in most cases, but this can also depend on the location and climate where you live.

Typically, spring in Reno ranges from February to April. But when is the best time during these months?

In general, you should always aim to fertilize your lawn after mowing it. When your lawn needs to be cut for the first time in spring, aim to fertilize after doing so.

If desired, you can also fertilize your lawn once more in the later months of spring as it grows longer and healthier before summer arrives.

How to Fertilize Your Lawn

What is the best way to fertilize your lawn?

As mentioned, a good rule of thumb for lawn fertilization is to fertilize it after it has been freshly mowed. This keeps it healthy after being cut and supports your lawn in its ensuing growing process.

In addition to this, it is worth knowing the best time to fertilize. Fertilizing should be when your lawn is dry, either late in the morning (when there is no more dew) or before a sprinkling (or rain). This allows adequate time for the fertilizer to seep into the soil.

As for other tips and tricks, make sure to remember to cover your lawn equally by taking a mental note of your distribution. You should also follow manufacturer instructions on your specific fertilizer so that you apply the fertilizer effectively and in the right amount.

Best Lawn Fertilizers

So, what makes a good lawn fertilizer? Which lawn fertilizer is the most effective?

Typically, the best lawn fertilizer is one that provides all the essential nutrients for grass growth and maintains a healthy green appearance. These include but are not limited to nitrogen (ammonium nitrate or urea), phosphorus, and potassium.

While nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the key things to look for in any lawn fertilizer, there are other factors to consider, such as the type of lawn fertilizer you decide to buy.

There are various types of fertilizer to try, including granular fertilizers (slow-release and quick-release) and liquid fertilizers. During winter months, slow-release fertilizers are considered the better option, allowing nutrients to absorb over a more extended period.

Granular lawn fertilizers are popular for their versatility and ease of use. Liquid fertilizers, on the other hand, are easily distributed using a hose or watering can and quickly absorbed into the soil. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Read through frequently asked questions about lawn fertilization and general lawn maintenance below.

Is It Worth it to Fertilize Your Lawn?

If you want an even, healthy-looking lawn that improves the overall appearance of your front or backyard, it is worth fertilizing your lawn. Fertilizing should be done at least four times a year, once each season, but this can vary depending on location and climate.

When Should You Not Fertilize Your Lawn?

As a general rule, you should not fertilize your lawn when wet. This includes early in the morning, when dew is present, and after watering or rain. While this does not damage your lawn, fertilizing your lawn when dry allows the soil to absorb the nutrients properly.

Summary

Spring is the best time to fertilize your lawn if you live in Reno. As spring marks the end of winter, this is ideal for initiating lawn growth in time for summer. In this case, you should aim to fertilize your lawn after you give your lawn its first mowing in spring.

You should also fertilize your lawn when your lawn is dry - either later in the morning (when the dew has left the grass) or just before watering/rainfall. For the best fertilizer for your lawn, make sure to choose one that includes nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

The choices of fertilizers can be overwhelming, but the professionals at Cory's Lawn Service can help you choose the perfect product for your yard's current needs. Different seasons require different fertilizer applications and timing demands to help your lawn flourish. Don't let the box store brands mislead you to what your lawn needs in our Reno-Sparks area. Call us today and let us help take care of all of your lawn care needs!