When it comes to maintaining a vibrant and healthy lawn, timing your fertilizer applications is key. Many people think fertilizing is only necessary in the spring, but for truly lush and resilient grass, a year-round fertilization schedule is critical. At All Seasons Lawn Care, we recommend a schedule that focuses on preventing issues before they happen, leaving clients with a wonderful lawn to enjoy all year long. Keep reading to learn our preferred schedule and take notes for your own yard.
Early Spring Application (March-April)
As the snow melts and temperatures in Boise finally rise, it’s time to start your fertilizer application. During early spring, apply a start-up fertilizer with pre-emergent weed control. This combination jumpstarts your lawn’s growth while preventing early weeds like dandelions, crabgrass, clover, and Canada thistle from taking root. Pre-emergent herbicides form a barrier in the soil, stopping weed seeds from germinating, while the fertilizer gives your grass the nutrients it needs to grow thick and healthy. Even though it might seem early in the year, this application is the foundation for a productive growing season.
Early Summer Application (May-June)
As the growing season (and the warming temperature) kicks into high gear, your lawn needs a nutrient boost to sustain its newfound lush, green appearance. An early summer fertilizer application encourages robust growth, strengthens the grass blades, and maintains vibrant color. During this period where growing conditions are ideal (lots of sun and moisture, but not too hot), lawns experience rapid growth, and applying a fertilizer rich in nitrogen ensures your grass has the energy to thrive. This is also a good time to monitor for pests and diseases, addressing any issues promptly to keep your lawn in peak condition.
Bonus Tip: May through June is also the time to apply a billbug insect control pesticide to keep your lawn free from pests throughout the summer. Tag team your summer growth efforts by applying your early summer fertilizer and billbug insecticide at the same time.
Lawn Post-Emergent Treatment (June-July)
By mid-summer, weeds can become a problem despite your pre-emergent efforts. Apply a post-emergent fertilizer and herbicide during this time to target any weeds that may have recently sprouted like goatheads, spurge, and mallow. Post-emergent treatments are are also effective against weeds like dandelions and clover that may have escaped earlier treatments. Pairing this with a balanced fertilizer ensures that your grass has the nutrients to outcompete weeds while staying green and healthy so you can enjoy backyard summer BBQs and quality family time.
Summer Application (August)
As the summer heat peaks, it’s essential to provide your lawn with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. This not only sustains its green color but also provides continued weed control and prepares your lawn for the upcoming seasonal transition (yes, we’re planning ahead, but we’re not called All Seasons Lawn Care for nothing). Slow-release fertilizers gradually feed your lawn over time, reducing the risk of burn and ensuring consistent growth despite high temperatures.
Bonus tip: watering deeply but infrequently during this time helps your lawn stay resilient against drought stress. Quality over quantity!
Fall Application (October)
As the growing season winds down, your lawn’s focus shifts to root health. A slow-release winterizer fertilizer applied in the fall helps strengthen roots and ensures a healthy start-up the following spring. This application sets the stage for a thriving lawn when warmer weather returns. Winterizer fertilizers are typically higher in potassium, which enhances root development and improves the lawn’s ability to withstand cold Idaho weather. It’s also a great time to aerate your lawn, allowing nutrients to penetrate deep into the soil.
Year-Round Fertilization Matters
As you can see, fertilization isn’t a summer to-do list item–it’s something you should be working on all year long. A consistent fertilization schedule provides your lawn with the nutrients it needs to combat weeds, resist disease, and maintain its lush appearance. Skipping applications or fertilizing at the wrong time can leave your lawn vulnerable to problems that are harder to fix later, which is why it’s important to know what kind of fertilizer you need and when to apply it. For more information on what kind of fertilizer your lawn needs, check out our blog Fertilizer 101 for Idaho Lawns: Your Guide to Green Grass.
If managing your lawn’s fertilization schedule feels overwhelming, don’t worry—we’re here to help. Our expert team can handle everything from pre-emergent treatments to winterization. Give us a call or book an appointment through our website, and we’ll help you achieve the lawn of your dreams!
