When and How Should You Fertilize New Grass on Pennsylvania Lawns?

If you’re establishing new grass in Pennsylvania, feed soon after putting down sod or seed. Shoot for soil temperatures between 50°F and 65°F. The key is to use a starter fertilizer high in phosphorus, which will help develop strong roots. Spread it, water lightly and mix vigorously so the nutrients get to the soil.

The Importance of Timing on New Lawns

Timing is everything and the nutrients need to be there when young grasses are developing their roots and shoots. If fertilized too early or too late, the grass will take up fewer nutrients, and the feeding won’t aid its growth. So keep this in mind: 

• To establish, cool-season grasses should be planted at a soil temperature of between 50 and 65°F.
• Apply starter fertilizer at the time of seeding or sodding, or just slightly before. Don’t wait weeks.
• Do not fertilize when the grass is dormant or the ground is frozen. Grass won’t absorb nutrients then.

What Type of Starter Fertilizer to Use

To encourage root growth and establish your new grass, use the proper fertilizer in the correct manner. Seek out high phosphorus (the middle number in the N-P-K formula). This helps root systems develop. Some common starter ratios are 10-20-10, 10-10-10, or 15-10-10.

Have the soil tested for nutrient deficiencies. You may be able to receive testing through local extension offices for better results. Apply fertilizer for even coverage:

• Spread with a broadcast or drop spreader.
• Overlap your passes slightly.
• Don’t bury the fertilizer. Surface application works best.
• Water lightly so nutrients get pushed into the soil without burning your new grass.

Tips and Guidelines for New Sod Fertilization

If you would like to do it the correct way, follow these steps to fertilize new grass:

Prepare the soil

• Loosen the top 4 inches so roots can grow.
• Clear away stones, roots, and debris.

Apply starter fertilizer

• Drop this on just before or immediately following seeding or sodding.
• Use the recommended amount. For new lawns, that can mean 0.5 to one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.

Seed or lay sod

• Make sure the seed has good contact with the soil.
• Lightly cover seeds if needed.
• Press or roll the soil to keep seeds in place.

Water properly

• Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
• Initially, keep waterings light and frequent.
• Slowly reduce frequency as grass matures.

Follow-up feeding

• Around 4 to 8 weeks after planting, apply more fertilizer.
• Opt for one with lower phosphorus and higher nitrogen to encourage your lawn to thicken.

Recognizing Pennsylvania-Specific Considerations

Pennsylvania has some specific circumstances that determine how to fertilize your new grass: Here are some: 

• The majority of lawns utilize cool-season grasses (like Kentucky bluegrass, tall or fine fescue and perennial ryegrass). They are best in spring and fall.
• Many state guidelines discourage using phosphorus unless a soil test shows it’s needed.
• Cold winters and frozen soil mean grass stops growing. Fertilizer added then won’t help and might wash away.

The Way Blades of Steel Landscaping Manage New Yard Fertilizing

At Blades of Steel Landscaping we feel your lawn should get off to a great start. Applying the right mix, with the right timing, is how we feed new grass to grow thick and healthy. Whether you’re starting from seed or sodding, here’s how to do it:

1. We start with a soil test to receive a baseline understanding of your lawn’s unique requirements.
2. We choose a starter fertilizer that matches your grass and soil, one high ( as necessary ) in phosphorus.
3. We till your soil, whether it’s new or old, with bare spots and put down the fertilizer evenly so mats are thick and full.
4. Once the grass is growing, we time our follow-up feedings so it keeps strong but doesn’t get overfed.
5. We never forget to consider your soil temperature, local weather patterns and regional variables so the lawn you plant has the greatest opportunity for success

Want to Grow the Lawn You Always Dreamed Of?

Now you know when to fertilize new grass in Pennsylvania, what type of fertilizer to use, and the correct techniques for doing it. Begin early, with the right starter mix; water uniformly and follow through.Seeking a lawn that will look good on Day 1? Contact Blades of Steel Landscaping. We’ll help you prepare your soil, we’ll plan the right fertilizer strategy and install new grass or sod with care that only experts can provide. Call us today to begin your lush, healthy lawn.