Applying Step 3 Lawn Fertilizer: Timing Matters for a Vibrant Yard
In the heart of summer, ensuring a lush, vibrant lawn can be a challenge due to the heat and potential drought. However, with the right care and the right tools, a beautiful green lawn is achievable. One such tool is Scotts Step 3 Lawn Food, a fertilizer designed specifically for the hot summer months.
Scotts Step 3 Lawn Food is a balanced fertilizer, containing essential nutrients in the form of Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium (N-P-K). A typical recommended ratio for lawns is around 2-1-1 or 3-1-2. The nitrogen content should be at least 35% slow-release, providing a steady supply of nutrients to promote consistent growth without the risk of burning the lawn.
This fertilizer also includes additional micronutrients such as iron, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, manganese, boron, copper, and zinc, all of which contribute to overall lawn health and disease resistance. In the case of Step 3, it contains three kinds of iron nutrients - slow, medium, and quick - as well as magnesium and zinc.
The application of Scotts Step 3 Lawn Food is best in early spring or June, and again in August, the hottest months of summer. It's crucial to keep the soil wet and fertilize the roots, which Scotts Step 3 helps achieve. To apply the fertilizer evenly, a Scotts broadcast spreader is required. The opening of the spreader should be 1/4 inches, and it should be walked on at a normal pace.
It's important to note that the time period between the application of Scotts Step 3 and Step 2 should be maintained. Also, never apply fertilizer to wet grounds, as this can lead to unnecessary waste and potential harm to the lawn. Instead, apply fertilizer to a moist lawn and water lightly afterward to move nutrients into the soil.
In extreme heat, the garden needs additional water. The recommended watering amount for the soil is 1.5 liters for a fresh green lawn. After fertilizing with Scotts Step 3, it needs to be watered in for approximately 20 minutes.
June and August are months when bees lay eggs in the soil, potentially damaging the garden. Summer can also cause soil drought, and unexpected rain can occur. To protect the lawn from broadleaf weeds, two applications of Step 3 fertilizer can provide effective protection.
In conclusion, Scotts Step 3 Lawn Food, with its balanced N-P-K ratio, slow-release nitrogen, and additional micronutrients, is an excellent choice for maintaining a green summer lawn. By following the recommended application guidelines and providing the right amount of water, homeowners can enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn throughout the summer months.
[1] Lawn Care for a Green Summer Lawn: https://www.gardenmyths.com/lawn-care-for-a-green-summer-lawn/ [2] Best Practices for Lawn Fertilization: https://www.extension.org/pages/71930/best-practices-for-lawn-fertilization [3] Understanding Lawn Fertilizers: https://www.extension.org/pages/71931/understanding-lawn-fertilizers [4] Lawn Fertilizer Basics: https://www. extension.org/pages/71932/lawn-fertilizer-basics
Gardening and maintaining a lush, home-and-garden lawn can be challenging during summer's heat and potential drought. To combat this, using balanced fertilizers like Scotts Step 3 Lawn Food, with essential nutrients in the N-P-K form, is advisable. This fertilizer also contains additional micronutrients such as iron, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, manganese, boron, copper, and zinc, helping to enhance the overall health and disease resistance of the lawn.