A well-maintained sod lawn not only looks beautiful but also strengthens your property’s curb appeal and increases longevity. This guide will walk you through essential seasonal maintenance steps to keep your lawn healthy, vibrant, and resilient year-round.
Late February: Early Wake-Up Call
As winter transitions into early spring, your lawn is waking up. A light application of fertilizer will help it perk up and regain its rich green color.
What to Apply
- Choose a fertilizer high in nitrogen (N), such as 20-5-10 or 12-4-18.
- Apply ½ to ¾ pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft.
Why This Matters
- Nitrogen promotes strong leaf growth and helps your lawn recover from winter dormancy.
- A light dose prevents overgrowth, which can make your lawn susceptible to disease later in the year.
Mid to Late March: Weed Prevention Begins
As temperatures rise, weeds become active—especially crabgrass and broadleaf weeds. Early prevention is key.
Action Steps
- Apply a pre-emergent Crabgrass Preventer to stop weeds before they sprout.
- If you notice existing weeds, apply a Broadleaf Weed Killer to eliminate them before they spread.
Late May: Strengthening Defense Against Weeds
By now, your lawn is growing steadily, but crabgrass can still sneak in, especially if the grass is kept short.
What to Do
- Reapply Crabgrass Preventer 6 to 8 weeks after the first application.
- This second application is critical for short-mowed lawns, which are more vulnerable to invasive weeds.
July to September: Managing Heat Stress & Disease
The peak of summer can be tough on your lawn, especially Fescue and Bluegrass, which are prone to Brown Patch disease in hot, humid conditions.
Preventative Care
- Water early in the morning – Deep watering once or twice a week is better than frequent shallow watering.
- Limit foot traffic – Stressed grass is more vulnerable to disease and damage.
- Mow high (3 to 4 inches) – Taller grass shades the soil and retains moisture.
Dealing with Brown Patch
- If disease-prone conditions (heat, humidity, moisture) persist, apply fungicides preventatively every 3-4 weeks.
- If you prefer a natural approach, let the disease run its course—tall grass usually recovers on its own.
Mid to Late September: Fall Fertilization for Strong Roots
As temperatures cool, it’s time to replenish nutrients and strengthen root growth before winter.
Fertilizer Guidelines
- Use a 3-1-2 ratio fertilizer (e.g., 15-5-10 or 18-6-12).
- Apply 1 pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft.
Mid-September to Mid-October: Overseeding for a Thicker Lawn
If your lawn has thin or patchy areas, early fall is the best time to overseed—especially for Fescue lawns.
How Much to Apply
- 4 to 6 lbs. of seed per 1,000 sq. ft.
- Use the same variety as your existing grass for consistent color and texture.
Early December: Preparing for Winter
Winter doesn’t mean your lawn is off the maintenance list. Before the cold sets in, apply a final round of fertilizer to help sustain root strength during dormancy.
Fertilizer Mix
- 3-1-2 ratio at 1 pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft.
- This slow-release feeding prepares your lawn for a strong comeback in spring.
Understanding Fertilizer Numbers
Fertilizer labels use a three-number system (N-P-K):
- Nitrogen (N) – Supports leaf and blade growth.
- Phosphorus (P) – Encourages root development.
- Potassium (K) – Enhances overall plant health and disease resistance.
For example, in 20-5-10 fertilizer:
- 20% is nitrogen (N),
- 5% is phosphorus (P),
- 10% is potassium (K),
- The remaining 65% is inert filler that helps distribute nutrients evenly.
How to Calculate Application Rate:
To apply 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft., divide 100 by the first number on the fertilizer bag:
- 20-5-10 fertilizer → Apply 5 lbs. per 1,000 sq. ft.
- 15-5-10 fertilizer → Apply 6.5 lbs. per 1,000 sq. ft.
Final Tips for a Healthier Lawn
- Leave grass clippings – They naturally return nitrogen to the soil.
- Account for trees & shrubs – They absorb nutrients, so lawns under heavy tree cover may need extra feeding.
- Adjust mowing height by season – Taller grass helps conserve moisture in summer, while shorter mowing helps prevent fungal growth in fall.
By following this year-round maintenance plan, your sod lawn will stay lush, healthy, and resilient for years to come. Need help choosing the right fertilizer or troubleshooting lawn issues?
