When to fertilize: cool-season vs warm-season

Timing depends on your grass type. Feed when the grass is growing strongly so it can use the nutrients; feeding at the wrong time feeds weeds or pushes growth the grass can't support.

Cool-season lawns

• Fall is the most important time to feed (often early fall and again late fall in many areas)
• A light feeding in late spring is optional
• Avoid heavy feeding in summer heat

Warm-season lawns

• Start after the lawn has fully greened up in late spring
• Feed through summer while it's actively growing, following your soil test and local guidance
• Stop in late summer or early fall so it can harden off before dormancy

Not sure what grass you have?

See our grass types page, or take a sample to your county extension office.

General lawn care information. Grass, soil and climate vary; your cooperative extension office can give local advice. Reliable Service Crew isn't paid by any brand or lawn company.