Tree Care

What to Do If You Burn Your Lawn with Fertilizer

Fertilizer burn is a common issue affecting lawns' health and appearance. It occurs when too much fertilizer is applied to the grass, causing the fertilizer's nitrogen or other chemicals to burn the grass's blades. This results in unsightly brown patches or yellowing that can damage your turf if not addressed.

 

How to Identify Fertilizer Burn

 

Identifying fertilizer burn is crucial to managing its impact on your lawn. The most obvious signs include:

 

  1. Discoloration: Grass affected by fertilizer burn typically turns yellow or brown.
  2. Pattern of damage: The damage often follows the pattern in which the fertilizer was applied, which might be more concentrated in areas where excess fertilizer was accidentally spread.
  3. Timing after application: Noticeable symptoms usually appear within a day or two after fertilizer application, mainly if the weather is warm and dry.
     

How to Fix Fertilizer Burn

 

If you suspect your lawn has suffered from fertilizer burn, immediate action can help mitigate the damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

 

Thoroughly Inspect Your Lawn

 

Start by inspecting the extent of the damage. Look for the areas most affected and assess the condition of the grass. Healthy, green patches may still exist around the burned areas.

 

Remove Damaged Grass and Leftover Fertilizer

 

Carefully remove the damaged grass to prevent further chemical imbalance in the soil. Also, remove any visible excess fertilizer from these areas to stop additional nutrients from continuing to burn the grassroots.

 

Water Your Lawn

 

Watering plays a critical role in recovering from fertilizer burn. Deep, thorough watering helps dilute the fertilizer concentration in the soil. Water daily in the early morning to ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged, which can further stress the grass.

 

Reseed, If Needed

 

If large lawn areas are severely damaged, reseeding may be necessary. Choose a grass seed matching the lawn type for uniform growth and appearance. Ensure the soil is well-prepared before sowing new seeds, and keep the soil moist until the new grass is established.

 

How to Prevent Fertilizer Burn

 

Preventing fertilizer burn is more effective than treating it. Here are some tips:

Read instructions carefully: Always follow the fertilizer package’s recommended application rates and methods.

 

  1. Use a spreader: For granular fertilizers, use a spreader to ensure even distribution.
  2. Apply under favorable conditions: Avoid applying fertilizer before a heat wave or when the lawn is stressed from drought.
  3. Regular soil testing: Conduct soil tests periodically to understand the nutrient needs of your lawn, preventing over-fertilization.
     

Contact Strobert Tree Services

 

At Strobert Tree Services, we understand the intricacies of lawn and tree care. Serving Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, we provide expert advice and services for maintaining the health and beauty of your outdoor spaces. Whether it’s regular pruning or managing a specific issue like fertilizer burn, our team is equipped to ensure your lawn and trees remain in peak condition.

 

For more information on maintaining a healthy lawn or scheduling a consultation, contact Strobert Tree Services today. Let us help you keep your lawn lush and vibrant all season long.

 

Blog

Read our other blog posts

Nov 10th, 2023

How Long Does it Take For a Tree to Grow

Discover the secrets behind tree growth! Explore factors like species, location, and maintenance. Un...
Jul 12th, 2023

Summer Plant Health Care Tips

Maintain the health of your plants this summer with expert plant health care services from Strobert ...
Dec 4th, 2024

Can a Partially Uprooted Tree Be Saved

Discover if a partially uprooted tree can be saved. Learn causes, solutions, and expert tips from St...