Should You Use Granular or Liquid Fertilizer in the Summer?

Granular and liquid fertilizers differ in form and application, with granular fertilizers offering slow-release, long-lasting nutrients ideal for summer use. During summer, granular fertilizer provides consistent nutrition, helping lawns withstand heat and stress without the risk of fertilizer burn. In the summer, it's recommended to fertilize your lawn three times: early summer for growth foundation, mid-summer for resilience, and late summer for recovery. This schedule ensures your lawn in Tennessee remains healthy and vibrant throughout the season.

What is the difference between granular and liquid fertilizer?

Granular and liquid fertilizers differ primarily in their form and application. Granular fertilizers come in solid pellets or granules that are spread over the lawn, typically using a broadcast spreader. They release nutrients slowly over time, which provides a steady supply of nutrition to the grass. This slow-release characteristic makes them ideal for long-term feeding, as they can last several weeks or even months, depending on the formulation.

On the other hand, liquid fertilizers are concentrated solutions that are mixed with water and applied using a hose-end sprayer or a watering can. The grass absorbs them quickly, providing an immediate boost of nutrients. However, because they are fast-acting, their effects are shorter-lived, and you need to reapply them more frequently.

Why should you use granular fertilizer in the summer?

Granular fertilizer is often recommended for summer use because it fits the season’s demands. During summer, lawns are subjected to higher temperatures and increased foot traffic, which can stress the grass. Granular fertilizers, with their slow-release properties, provide a consistent supply of nutrients that help the lawn withstand these stresses over a longer period.

The slow release of nutrients also reduces the risk of fertilizer burn, which can occur with liquid fertilizers if applied incorrectly or in high concentrations. Granular fertilizers are less likely to wash away during rain or irrigation, ensuring that the nutrients remain available to the roots. This makes them particularly effective during summer when lawns require sustained nutrition to maintain their health and vigor.

How Many Times Should You Fertilize Your Lawn in the Summer?

To keep your lawn healthy throughout the summer, a strategic fertilization schedule is essential. Here’s a recommended timeline for applying granular fertilizer during the summer months:

• Early Summer: Apply granular fertilizer to provide a strong nutritional foundation as the grass enters its peak growing season. This initial feeding helps the lawn recover from spring activity and prepares it for the hotter months ahead.
• Mid-Summer: Fertilize again during mid-summer, as the heat and potential drought conditions can stress the grass. A second application will continue to supply essential nutrients, supporting the lawn’s resilience and growth during the most challenging part of the season.
• Late Summer: A late summer application helps the lawn recover from the cumulative effects of summer stress and prepares it for the upcoming fall season. This feeding ensures that the grass remains healthy and vibrant as temperatures begin to cool and growth patterns change.