How should turf be fertilized in the fall?

Fertilizing turf in the fall is essential for promoting healthy growth and preparing the lawn for winter and the upcoming growing season. The most effective approach during this time is to focus on applying higher phosphorus fertilizers. Phosphorus plays a crucial role in root development, which is particularly important in the fall as the grass is entering dormancy and preparing for winter.

During this time, the growth of roots becomes a priority as it helps the grass establish a strong foundation. As temperatures decline, the above-ground growth slows down, so encouraging the root system to expand is essential for overall turf health. A fertilizer rich in phosphorus supports this development, leading to more robust grass that can better endure stressors like cold temperatures and drought.

While nitrogen-rich fertilizers might boost grass growth, applying them in the fall can lead to excessive top growth without adequate root establishment, making turf more vulnerable to winter conditions and diseases. Potassium also has its benefits, such as enhancing blade strength, but it is secondary to phosphorus in terms of prioritizing root growth at this stage. A balanced fertilizer could provide various nutrients, but it may not specifically address the urgent need for enhanced root development that higher phosphorus fertilizers facilitate in the fall.