If you are considering fertilizing your yard this fall, the time to do it is now, and surprisingly, fall is the best time to fertilize your lawn. Feeding your lawn before the frost will help ensure the soil’s nutrient levels are at their highest for optimum growing conditions.

Additional reasons for fertilizing in the fall include:

• The air temperature is starting to cool off
• Soil temperature is still warm
• Precipitation is more likely to occur in fall, and morning dew helps to absorb the fertilizer
• Boosting root growth in fall will help lead to a healthier, greener lawn in spring

Staying ahead of the game and fertilizing in the fall will help prolong the life of the lawn. A general rule of thumb is to fertilize 2-3 weeks before the ground freezes. Fertilizing early will help prevent weeds and reduce the amount of maintenance when springtime comes.

When it comes to fall fertilizing, liquid or granular fertilizers can be used depending on the situation. Some products are quick release and others are slower depending on the formula. If it is a new lawn, a slow release, granular formula would be better. If you are fertilizing for maintenance in early fall, you may use a liquid fertilizer for quicker release and weed control. This will help the soil receive the benefits faster before winter hits.

The best time to fertilize your lawn is in early morning or evening when temperatures have lowered. You should also keep track of the weather and be sure to fertilize after a rainstorm to keep it from running off.

For more helpful tips and fertilizer suggestions, ask our helpful folks at Ace Hardware of Fort Collins today! Be sure to use your Ace Rewards card and save on winter fertilizer!