Why does your lawn need fertiliser – if it makes its own food

All lawns require nutrients for survival and while most of these nutrients are already present in the soil, sometimes there just isn’t enough. Here’s how it works – the lawn takes in nutrients and oxygen through the soil and sun through the leaves for photosynthesis where conversions to energy and sugars happens. When everything is balanced this process occurs really well and your lawn will thrive, but it’s us that can help to keep this process going in the best way possible.

While lawns do make their own food often it needs to be supplemented to bring the soil nutrients into line with what the grass needs – hence why we fertilise.

When the nutrient levels in the soil below your lawn drop, the grass can lose its lovely green colour, become weak and unhealthy. It will self-repair slower from any damage and becomes more susceptible to disease and pests. Fertilising to ensure the right levels of nutrients is just one part of proper lawn care.

Fertilising your lawn should be done regularly throughout the year. Aiming for once a season is an easy way to remember how often and when it should be completed.

If you fertilise on a regular basis, in small application amounts and never more than the manufacturer’s specifications you’re on the right track. An application once or twice a year really won’t do very much for your lawn – if can even be damaging if you apply more at the one time to make up for the times you missed fertilising. Lawns can only absorb so many nutrients so once it’s at that point the rest just washes away into our water systems – becoming a waste of time and money as well as bad for our environment.

Ideally, fertilise every six weeks or so, mixing up the applications between organic and synthetic fertilisers and your lawn should reach optimum health in no time. Always read the instructions but generally, 20 grams per square metre is recommended – meaning that 2 kilograms will suit an average 100 square metre lawn. Always apply right before rain is due or water in thoroughly.

• Fertiliser is food for your lawn – not enough and it will starve, too much and it may not reach optimal health either
• Regular fertilising is important for a healthy and good looking lawn
• Your lawn is able to tell you when it needs fertilising – typically a yellowing or thinning of the lawn

For more information or to arrange your new natural lawn just contact the team at Daleys Turf today.