How To Find The Best Fertilizer For Your Colorado Lawn

Having a lush, healthy lawn in Colorado requires more than just regular watering and mowing. To achieve the best results, you'll need to use the right fertilizer to provide your grass with the essential nutrients it needs to thrive. With so many different types of fertilizers available on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. In this blog, we'll discuss how to buy the best fertilizer for your lawn in Colorado.

1. Understand Your Soil and Grass Type

Before purchasing fertilizer, it's crucial to understand your soil and grass type. Colorado has a diverse range of soil types, from sandy to clay soils, and different grass species thrive in different soil conditions. You'll need to determine your soil type and grass species to select a fertilizer that is appropriate for your lawn's specific needs.

2. Choose the Right Type of Fertilizer

There are two primary types of fertilizer: synthetic and organic. 

• Synthetic fertilizers are made from chemical compounds and provide a quick burst of nutrients to your lawn. 
• Organic fertilizers, on the other hand, are made from natural materials and release nutrients slowly over time.

Organic fertilizers are generally recommended for most lawns. They help improve soil health and reduce the risk of nutrient runoff into waterways. Organic fertilizers also work well in the state's dry, high-altitude climate, as they help retain moisture in the soil.

3. Check the Fertilizer Ratio

When purchasing fertilizer, it's essential to check the nutrient NPK ratio, which is listed as a series of numbers on the packaging. This ratio shows you the percentage the product contains by volume of nitrogen (chemical symbol N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). For example, a 20-10-10 fertilizer contains 20% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 10% potassium. The ratio you choose will depend on your lawn's specific needs and soil type.

For most lawns in Colorado, a fertilizer with a higher ratio of nitrogen (the first number in the series) is recommended. Nitrogen promotes healthy grass growth and helps your lawn recover from environmental stressors like drought and high altitude.

4. Look for Slow-Release Formulas

Slow-release fertilizers are designed to release nutrients slowly over time, providing a consistent source of nutrition for your lawn. These formulas are ideal for Colorado's dry climate, as they help prevent nutrient loss due to evaporation.

5. Consider the Application Method

Fertilizers come in many different forms, including granules, liquids, and spikes. Granular fertilizers are the most popular for lawns, as they are easy to apply and provide long-lasting results. Liquid fertilizers are best for quick nutrient boosts or for targeting specific areas of your lawn. Spikes are ideal for fertilizing trees and shrubs.

Call The Lawn Care Professionals

If you need help running a soil test, finding out what type of grass you have, or just want some tips or tricks on how to apply your lawn fertilizer, look no further than American Turf & Tree Care. Our comprehensive lawn care program in Greeley, CO also includes fertilization services.