Fall is a critical time to fertilize your lawn and garden in Maryland. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall create the ideal environment for plants to absorb nutrients and prepare for the winter months. Proper fertilization now will result in lush growth and vibrant blooms come spring. Here are our top tips for fall fertilizing.
Why Fertilize in Fall?
Build Strong Roots: Fall fertilization promotes deep root growth, helping plants survive winter.
Replenish Nutrients: Summer heat depletes soil nutrients, which need to be replaced to keep plants healthy.
Prepare for Spring Growth: Fertilizing in fall ensures your lawn and garden wake up strong and green in spring.
1. Fertilizing Your Lawn
Fall is the best time to fertilize cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue, which are common in Maryland.
When to Apply: Fertilize in early fall (September to mid-October) and again in late fall (November) for best results.
What to Use: Look for a fertilizer with a high potassium (K) content to strengthen roots. A typical fall formula will be labeled 10-20-10.
How to Apply: Spread the fertilizer evenly using a broadcast or drop spreader. Water your lawn afterward to help nutrients soak into the soil.
2. Fertilizing Garden Beds
Garden beds also benefit from a nutrient boost in fall, especially if you’re planting perennials, trees, or shrubs.
Organic Fertilizers: Use compost, bone meal, or well-rotted manure for slow-releasing nutrients that enrich the soil over time.
Timing: Apply fertilizer after removing spent plants and cleaning up debris.
Depth: Work the fertilizer into the top 6 inches of soil for maximum absorption.
3. Fertilizing Trees and Shrubs
Trees and shrubs store energy in their roots during fall to prepare for winter dormancy. Proper fertilization supports this process.
Type of Fertilizer: Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or one designed specifically for trees and shrubs.
Application: Spread the fertilizer evenly around the drip line (the edge of the tree canopy), avoiding the base of the trunk.
4. Special Considerations for Maryland Gardens
Test Your Soil: Before fertilizing, test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Maryland soil can vary widely, and a soil test will help you choose the right fertilizer.
Avoid Overfertilizing: Too much fertilizer can harm plants and contribute to nutrient runoff in local waterways. Stick to the recommended amounts.
Timing is Key: Fertilize early enough in fall to give plants time to absorb nutrients before the ground freezes.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Mulch
After fertilizing, add a layer of mulch to garden beds and around trees to lock in moisture, regulate soil temperature, and keep nutrients in place.
Let Scapers Landscaping Handle Your Fall Fertilizing Needs
Not sure which fertilizers to use or how much to apply? Scapers Landscaping offers professional fertilization services tailored to Maryland’s unique climate and soil conditions. We’ll help your lawn and garden look their best all year round.
Contact us today to schedule your fall fertilization service and set your landscape up for success.
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