I am curious about lawn fertilizing. We have a small lawn and I’d love to know when the best times are to fertilize throughout the year. Also, if you have some recommendations for natural fertilizers, I would appreciate it!
Thank you for the question Crystal! I looked out the window this morning and was stunned to see the snow covered lawn, though, it is Ohio. I was looking forward to a steamy 45 degrees; a question like this is perfect for today, dreaming of blue skies, a spring breeze and a lush lawn.
When I think of a natural fertilizer my mind goes straight to a bunch of Bull, or what comes out the other end. Who wants to try and spread a bunch of cow patties, for a lack of a better term, across their lawn? Though, it might deter any unwanted guests, or wanted ones for that matter.
So let’s try the next best thing, Milorganite, I first learned about this product when I was a Co-Op with the City of Akron. Milorganite is recycled organic materials gathered from throughout the city; the city has composted and heated these materials and they claim they meet the most stringent criteria imposed on any fertilizer product for health, safety and environmental concerns. It is safe for children and pets and it does not contain salts, so it will not burn plant material if you should accidentally apply too much.
Milorganite can be applied at any time of the year. The best way to apply it is to aerate your lawn in the early to mid-fall and have a reputable company use a mulch blower to blow the Milorganite throughout your lawn, or you can use a drop spreader. Afterward you can water it in or let Mother Nature take her course.
Most lawns go into dormancy if the temperatures drop below 65 degrees or go above 85 degrees. The best times to fertilize are early spring, early summer, early fall, when the lawn will be actively growing. Some folks fertilize twice a year and others 7 times a year.
I cannot say that I myself keep to any particular schedule with my lawn, outside of the once or twice a week mowing, I have left the rest to my lawn company they treat four to five times a year, depending on the year.
We all have very busy schedules and if you find you do not have time to apply this product when necessary; there are many reputable fertilization companies who offer a natural alternative for your lawn.
