If you've ever wondered how to fertilise a lawn and why it matters, you're not alone. Fertilising is one of the most important parts of lawn care, helping your grass to grow strong, healthy and vibrant. Knowing how to fertilise a lawn and throughout the year ensures you get the best results from your garden
Fertilising a lawn provides a whole host of benefits. To begin with, it helps keep your grass in top condition, encouraging a dense, strong growth. Fertiliser also supports turf recovery after heavy use, general wear and tear, and the effects of harsh weather.
Beyond growth and recovery, fertilising your lawn can also improve its overall appearance. A well-fed lawn is less prone to weeds and moss, giving you a healthier, greener space to enjoy. The key to effective fertilisation lies in the NPK ratio: the balance of nutrients your grass receives.
Every fertiliser comes with an N:P:K ratio printed on its packaging. This set of numbers indicates the key nutrients inside:
For example, the A1 Lawn New Grass Pre-Seed & Pre-Turf Fertiliser has an NPK ratio of 6:9:6. This means it contains 6% Nitrogen, 9% Phosphorus, and 6% Potassium, a well-balanced blend for establishing new lawns. Understanding this ratio is essential when learning how to fertilise a lawn, especially when choosing products suited to spring versus autumn.
Timing plays a huge role in lawn health. In general, you should fertilise at least twice a year:
Spring/Summer (from March onwards): This is when growth is at its fastest. Learning how to fertilise a lawn in spring is vital for encouraging lush, thick grass. Fertilisers designed for these months, such as the Ultimate Spring Summer Lawn Fertiliser, contain higher levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support rapid growth
Autumn/Winter (September/October): As temperatures drop, lawns need protection. Autumn/Winter fertilisers are lower in nitrogen and phosphate but higher in potassium, which strengthens grass, toughens turf, and prepares it to stay healthy through winter.
By following these seasonal guidelines, you'll know not just how to fertilise a lawn, but also how to adapt your approach for year-round success.
1. Prepare your lawn - Complete essential tasks such as weed control, scarification, and aeration before applying fertiliser.
2. Mow beforehand - Cut the grass so the fertiliser has more time to absorb the next mow.
3. Time it with rainfall - If using granular fertiliser, apply just before it is expected to rain. Water helps break down the granules and wash nutrients into the soil. Avoid applying to wet grass, as this can cause granules to stick and scorch the blades.
4. Apply evenly - For small lawns, granular fertiliser can be spread by hand, but this risks uneven application. Too much in one spot can burn turf, while too little leaves patches underfed. Instead, use a spreader, either handheld or push-along, for consistent results. For liquid fertilisers, use a knapsack sprayer, diluting the product according to the label.
By following these steps, you'll not only master how to fertilise a lawn, but also ensure your grass absorbs the nutrients it needs for long-term health.
