Call Scientific Plant Service to test soil nutrient levels before fall fertilization.
Before you apply fertilizer to your lawn in early fall, it’s helpful to understand the nutrient composition of your soil. Fertilizing without knowing your soil’s needs can lead to wasted product, poor results, and even damage to your lawn. Inspecting soil nutrient levels before fertilization ensures that you provide your grass with the exact nutrients it needs to thrive through the cooler months. You can count on Scientific Plant Service for efficient soil testing and fertilization for the season.
Understanding Soil Nutrient Levels
Healthy soil requires a balanced mix of nutrients to support strong grass growth. The three key nutrients found in most fertilizers are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). A soil test will reveal the soil’s phosphorus and potassium nutrient levels, along with others, helping you choose the right lawn fertilizer.
Nitrogen (N)
Nitrogen use by turfgrass and landscaping plants is constant. That is the reason Scientific Plant Service utilizes “Polyon” extended-release fertilizer. Polyon releases nutrients to follow the plants’ growth rate so that the nutrients are fully utilized and not wasted. Nitrogen is crucial for leaf and blade growth, making it one of the most important nutrients for maintaining a lush, green lawn. However, too much nitrogen can cause rapid, unhealthy growth, while too little can leave your grass weak and prone to disease. A soil test will show whether your soil has sufficient nitrogen to support healthy growth or if a nitrogen-rich fertilizer is needed.
Phosphorus (P)
Phosphorus promotes root development, which is essential as your lawn prepares for the colder months. If your soil is low in phosphorus, your grass may struggle to establish strong roots, making it more vulnerable to stress during winter. Excess phosphorus is detrimental to the environment, so its application can only be made when soil testing shows low levels.
Potassium (K)
Potassium enhances your grass’s ability to withstand stress from drought, disease, and temperature fluctuations. If your soil lacks potassium, your lawn may be less resilient to the environmental stresses of fall and winter. A soil test will indicate whether your soil needs additional potassium to boost your lawn’s strength and resilience.
Why Soil Testing is Critical for Effective Fertilization
Without testing your soil, you could be applying fertilizer that contains nutrients your lawn doesn’t need. For example, using too much quick-release nitrogen can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of root development, leaving your lawn vulnerable to stress. Similarly, excess phosphorus can contribute to harmful runoff into local waterways.
When to Test Your Soil
The best time to test your soil is late summer or early fall before you apply your fall fertilizer. This gives you enough time to assess the results and decide what type of fertilizer to use. At Scientific Plant Service, we understand the importance of soil testing for effective lawn care. Our expert staff can help you test your soil, interpret the results, and recommend the right fertilization plan to ensure your lawn is prepared for fall and winter.
Contact Scientific Plant Service today to learn more about soil testing and fall fertilization for a healthier, more resilient lawn.
Scientific Plant Service Is Your Go-To Source In Landscape Healthcare
Scientific Plant Service, located in Baltimore, is a privately owned corporation, chartered in Maryland in 1957 by Frank J. Burke. We started as a full-service Arborists specializing in the care of shade trees and ornamental shrubs, but today we are a Lawn Care company that is a huge part of the community. From aquatic environments and snow management to deer and mole control, SPS has services tailored specifically for your lawn and landscape.
We offer services in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia, including: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince Georges, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Calvert counties in MD, as well as Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church in VA. For more information, contact us online, or call us at 410-321-0970. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Pinterest.