Follow the directions. It is very important to read, understand and follow instructions on the fertilizer label, the people who sell the fertilizer have taken the time to do the research to teach you how to use it, so the right way.

The following is some advice to commonly asked questions about applying fertilizer and weed control:

How much should I use?
The fertilizer bag label advises how many square feet the product will cover. So, just follow the directions, and do not over-apply. It is best to do just what the bag says. If you do not use all of the fertilizer, do not worry, it will be just as effective the following year as long as you keep it in a dry area.

Which type of fertilizer should I use?
The truth is it depends on where you are and what time of year it is. But, truth be told, any reputable lawn and garden retailer will be able to recommend the best fertilizer mixture for a particular time of the year. In general, if it is Fall, turfgrass needs less nitrogen (N) but higher ratios of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) to encourage root growth and harden the grass plants for the coming winter. So, look for any fertilizer that offers these in high levels.

How do I ensure proper application?
To make sure you get proper application, you want to get a uniform coverage. To do this, you need either a broadcast spreader or a drop spreader, then do the following things:

1. Start out by adjusting the spreader application dial to one-half of the fertilizer bag's recommended setting and make the first application in an up-and-down pattern, covering the entire lawn. Be careful not to miss any spots, or double cover anything.

2. As soon as you are done with the first go around, start a second time, except this time go in a left to right pattern. Go over the entire lawn. For a better, more even coverage,
use two small flags to mark the beginning and end of each row as you apply the fertilizer.

Proper application of your fertilizer and weed control is going to lead to a healthier, more beautiful lawn. With proper lawn care your lawn will be the pride of the neighborhood. Of course you are still going to want to do things like aerate your lawn at the end of fall each year. You are going to need to water properly, and more. Fertilizer and weed control can help you have a more beautiful lawn, but alone it is not enough. Just remember, weed control is a poison, and used in too high of quantities, can kill your lawn. Be careful not to over fertilize, or over weed control. If you do, you might end up hurting your lawn more than helping it, and of course, a beautiful lawn that is the envy of the neighborhood is the goal.