It is often overlooked, but an attractive lawn can do wonders for your home. For one, it ups the curb appeal of your single-family rental property in Golden Valley. For a green and healthy lawn to sustain itself, it needs your help. Be sure to fertilize it when needed. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your rental property’s lawn looking great throughout the warmer months.
- Start in the Spring
The best time to apply the first round of fertilizer to your rental’s lawn is early in the spring. Once the soil has warmed up to around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to apply some fertilizer. Take your hint from the first new growth of grass to begin fertilizing. This signals that the soil is warm enough. For most regions of the country, the first feeding typically happens in mid-April.
- Buy the Right Fertilizer
When trying to acquire fertilizers, it is important to look for the right mix of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. Landscapers and lawn care experts recommend choosing a fertilizer with a mixture of 20-5-10 for spring. Slow-release fertilizers that come in the granular form are a good choice. Slow-release fertilizers break down into the soil over time, leading to lesser frequencies needed to fertilize. Aside from that, granular fertilizers are generally easier to apply and to control how much you use.
- Water Regularly
A common misconception is that overwatering the lawn leads to less need for fertilizers. This is something property owners need to realize is false. However, if you water your lawn and stimulate growth, you’ll need to apply more fertilizer to provide the appropriate amount of nutrients. When applying fertilizer, be sure to check the label and follow watering instructions. Some types of fertilizer require a wet lawn for application, while others can be applied when the lawn is dry. So as not to harm your beautiful lawn, follow these simple steps.
- Use the Right Spreader
For single-family rental homes, most people recommend a broadcast spreader for fertilizing your lawn. A broadcast spreader is relatively inexpensive and easy to use and will help you control how much fertilizer you use. And if you’re dealing with smaller areas, you can go with a handheld broadcast speaker, which is typically cranked by hand. Regardless of which size of spreader you use, remember to walk at a steady pace to ensure consistent coverage.
- Apply Carefully
For large lawn areas, it is highly recommended that you use a specific pattern to spread fertilizer evenly. For example, one recommended approach is to start by going around the perimeter of the lawn first, then fill in the middle area by working in only one direction. Apply the first half of the fertilizer this way, then spread the second half by moving in a perpendicular direction to your first application. This routine will ensure even coverage and prevent using too much fertilizer in any one place.
Remember…
After having your rental property’s preliminary feeding in April, plan to fertilize your lawn at least four more times. Experts recommend applying the second round of fertilizer after four weeks, then every six to eight weeks throughout the summer and fall.
By following these simple steps, your rental property’s lawn can grow strong and healthy season after season. If all of these details are a bit too intimidating for you, let us know. At Real Property Management Northern Arizona, we work with you and for you. Please contact us online or call us at 928-757-7368 to learn more about how we can serve you.
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