Starter Fertilizer for Grass Seed

Fertilizers are essential for optimal growth of plants. Starter fertilizers are those blends used on newly planted grass or seed to give them a nutritional boost. Though not necessary, starter fertilizer improves the health and vigor of grass seedlings. Starter fertilizer typically is used for over-seeded lawn areas.

Description

Starter fertilizers primarily supply three major nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (N-P-K). The fertilizer is available is various formulations such as 5-10-5, 10-10-10 or 12-12-12.

Recommendation

Higher phosphorus starter fertilizers help with the development of roots and leaf cell membranes. Higher nitrogen levels foster rapid leaf growth and is better in the latter stages of grass growth.

Application

Mix starter fertilizers into the top 1 to 2 inches of soil, using a hand rake or mechanical sand rake. This helps to make nutrients immediately available to seedling roots. Quality starter fertilizer helps to feed grass seedlings for six to eight weeks. After this time, start the use of regular lawn fertilizer.

References

• "Nancy Brachey's Guide to Piedmont Gardening"; Nancy Brachey, Sandy Hill; 2000
• "Turf Management in the Transition Zone"; John H. Dunn, Kenneth Diesburg; 2004
• "Scotts Lawn"; Nick Edward Christians, Ashton Ritchie; 2002