1. Start in the Spring
The best time to apply the first round of fertilizer to your rental’s lawn is early in the spring. Once the soil has warmed up to around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to apply some fertilizer. The first new growth of grass indicates that the soil is warm enough. For most areas of the country, the first feeding typically happens in mid-April.
2. Buy the Right Fertilizer
When purchasing fertilizers, it is important to look for the right mix of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. Landscapers and lawn care experts recommend choosing a fertilizer with a mixture of 20-5-10 for spring. A recommended pick would be a slow-release fertilizer that comes in granular form. What makes this great is that you won’t need to fertilize so much since slow-release fertilizers break down into the soil over time. Moreover, granular fertilizers facilitate easier application and control of how much to use.
3. Water Regularly
A common practice among property owners is overwatering their lawns. This leads them to believe that they won’t have to use more fertilizers — this is simply wrong. However, if you water your lawn and stimulate growth, you’ll need to apply more fertilizer to provide the appropriate amount of nutrients. When applying fertilizer, be sure to check the label and follow watering instructions. Some types of fertilizer require a wet lawn for application, while others can be applied when the lawn is dry. When you stick to the steps that need to be followed, you can’t go wrong.
4. Use the Right Spreader
For lawns of single-family rental homes, the popular choice is a broadcast spreader for fertilizing. A broadcast spreader is relatively inexpensive and easy to use and will help you control how much fertilizer you use. If you don’t mind the typical crank-by-hand method, a handheld broadcast spreader would do the job. In any case, whatever size of the spreader you choose, don’t forget to walk at a steady pace to ensure consistent coverage.
5. Apply Carefully
For large lawn areas, consider applying a specific pattern to spread fertilizer evenly. For example, one recommended approach is to start by going around the perimeter of the lawn first, then fill in the middle area by working in only one direction. Apply the first half of the fertilizer this way, then spread the second half by moving in a perpendicular direction to your first application. This routine will ensure even coverage and prevent using too much fertilizer in any one place.
Remember…
After having your rental property’s preliminary feeding in April, plan to fertilize your lawn at least four more times. Experts recommend applying the second round of fertilizer after four weeks, then every six to eight weeks throughout the summer and fall.
By following these simple steps, your rental property’s lawn can grow strong and healthy season after season. We are, as they say, all in this together, right? So, let us do what we do best, for you. At Real Property Management Pioneer, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish together. Please contact us online or call us at 940-435-2526 to learn more about how we can serve you.