Fertilization & Weed Control
Lawn Friendly and Environmentally Responsible
Promote growth and inhibit pest plants with Dan's Custom Landscapes. We can help you get the best lawn in the neighborhood, with the right mix of fertilizers and herbicides – all while respecting the environment.
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Fertilizer/Weed Control Program
The fertilizer/weed control program we have developed is specifically formulated for Iowa's local weather conditions. A complete program includes 4 applications of quality granulated fertilizers combined with spray applications of post-emergents.
Our licensed applicators only use herbicides as needed. They may spot spray weeds rather than spray the entire lawn. This minimizes herbicides and is a responsible approach to lawn care.
Schedule of applications (approximate – depending on weather conditions):
1st
Early April to May (low nitrogen fertilizer with pre-emergent herbicide)
2nd
May to June (low nitrogen fertilizer with pre-emergent herbicide, and post emergent herbicide) *2 applications
3rd
Mid August to September (balanced fertilizer with % nitrogen dependent on weather conditions)
4th
October to November (higher % nitrogen fertilizer, and post-emergent herbicide) *2 applications
*Special Mid-summer application of fertilizer. This application is optional and best suited for lawns with higher maintenance needs and/or lawns with irrigation.
Fertilizing
Fertilizers: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) are the three important nutrients for turf in Iowa. The grade of a fertilizer is a three numbered sequence indicating the percentages of N, P, and K. An example: 18-5-9, which is 18% N, 5% P and 9% K (100 lb. bag has 18 lb. N, 5 lb. P and 9 lb. K).
N is important for growth and green color. There are two types used: slow and fast release. Slow release N is the better choice since there is less burn potential and it lasts longer, but it also costs 4-5 times that of fast release nitrogen. Fast release gives quicker green-up, but if over-applied it can burn the turf, especially if hot weather follows application. By combining both you get the best and safest feeding.
P is important for seed and root development but usually not critical in Iowa soils for mature turf stands. The importance of using a high P fertilizer when establishing seed or sod can't be overemphasized.
K is very important in developing resistance to disease and stress (traffic, heat, mowing, etc.).
Fertilizer Application: When fertilizing your lawn you should first get an accurate measurement of your yard in square feet, and use this measurement to determine the amount needed. By doing this you reduce the chance of burning the turf and get the most out of the fertilizer. The amount of product to use depends on % of slow and fast release N used and time of year applied. Use at least 1/2 as much K as N for each feeding for best results. To get even spread of granular fertilizers one should apply the product at 1/2 rate in one direction and then 1/2 rate in the perpendicular direction. This will help reduce chances of streaking from over/under-lapping of fertilizer.
Late Fall Fertilization: Fall is a good time to put a heavier application of fertilizer on turf. Cheaper fast-release fertilizer can be used with less chance of burning. Bluegrass has a more prostrate growth at this time and the fertilizer helps it fill in bare areas faster (by rhizomonous growth).
Weed Control
Weeds are controlled by pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. Pre-emergent herbicides are applied in early spring before weed seeds germinate, forming a barrier on the soil surface that kills emerging weeds. Since the barrier gradually breaks down, a second application is usually needed at half rate to get year-long performance. Raking and aerification will break the barrier and should be done before the first pre-emergent application.
Post-emergent herbicides kill growing and established weeds and are usually applied in spring and fall. Fall is the best time because there is less chance of damage to gardens and ornamentals. Better translocation of herbicide occurs at this time because plants are storing more carbohydrates for winter. Post-emergent herbicides come in amine and ester formulations. Amines are less volatile and safer to use.