In early spring, grass sprouts and grows using the energy stored in its root system last fall. Sometimes it needs a little help.
The best moment to apply a small amount of fertilizer is in April when temperatures rise above 60°F, which is when winter grasses in Delaware speed up their growth.
With a Zoysia lawn, postpone fertilizer treatment until May. It’s a summer grass and greens up later.
Pro tip: If you haven’t tested the soil in the winter, take some samples now. The soil test results will tell you exactly what nutrients to add and in what amount. Spring is an excellent opportunity to feed the lawn with phosphorus and potassium for root development and an immunity boost if the soil is deficient.
Set Up a Weed Control Plan
Early spring is an excellent time to apply pre-emergent herbicides for summer weeds like crabgrass and goosegrass. Spread the formula 10 to 14 days before the period weed seeds germinate.
Pre-emergent formulas stay active for 4 to 8 weeks. You should apply the herbicide more than once and postpone overseeding the grass until it wears off.
Mid and late spring is the best time to hand-pull young weeds that defied the herbicide. Now their roots are small, and removing them completely is easier. Use post-emergent herbicides, if necessary, once temperatures rise above 70°F.
Warning! Don’t use any herbicides on newly sprouted turfgrass. Wait until after the third mowing, about 6 to 8 weeks from seeding.
