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Lawns that are discolored, slow-growing, or have invading
weeds or other pest problems may not be properly fertilized. Fertilizer
is important for healthy, vigorous plant growth and development. Because
many of the required nutrients for turfgrass are found naturally in
the soil, fertilization practices focus on the supply of three primary
nutrients — nitrogen,
phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen is the only nutrient that turfgrass
needs on a regular basis. Lawns may occasionally be deficient in iron,
and fertilizers containing iron may be supplemented. As nitrogen is
applied, both root and shoot growth increases. If too much nitrogen
is applied too frequently, shoots will continue to grosw yet root growth
will slow, leaving the turf vulnerable to problems.
See the following publications for more information:
Benefits
of grasscycling
Grasscycling supplies about 20% of the fertilizer
requirements of most grasses. Leaving your clippings on the grass after
mowing is beneficial as it returns nutrients back to the soil. However
it is only beneficial if you follow proper watering, mowing, and fertilizing
guidelines. Avoid overfertilizing as it can cause vigorous shoot and stem
growth, contributing considerably to thatch
buildup.
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