Top 4 Fertilizer Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them
1. Skipping a Soil Test
Why it matters: Without knowing your soil’s nutrient levels and pH, you’re guessing at what your grass really needs.
Quick fix:
Collect 10–12 samples from different spots on your lawn, 3–4 inches deep.
Remove any grass or roots, mix together, and send one cup of the blend to a reputable lab or your county extension office.
Use the results to choose the right balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—and to correct pH issues (ideal range: 6.5–7.0).
Tip: Test annually until results stabilize, then every 2–3 years.
2. Overfertilizing
Why it backfires: Excess nutrients wash away in Myrtle Beach’s sandy soils, polluting waterways and wasting money.
Quick fix:
Set your spreader to half the recommended rate and make two perpendicular passes.
Aim for two applications per year—early fall and late spring—instead of a four-step regimen.
3. Fertilizing at the Wrong Time
Why it hurts: Timing affects uptake, growth, and stress tolerance.
Quick fix:
Early September: Main feeding to rebuild reserves after summer heat.
Mid-October: “Winterizer” to strengthen roots before cooler weather.
Mid-Spring (optional): Light feeding paired with pre-emergent crabgrass control.
Midsummer (sparingly): Only if your lawn truly needs a boost—and always in cooler, overcast conditions.
4. Careless Application
Why it’s risky: Uncontrolled spread can harm water quality and irritate neighbors.
Quick fix:
Keep granules at least 6–8 feet from ponds, streams, or storm drains.
Sweep or blow any stray fertilizer off hard surfaces back onto the grass.
Never apply to frozen ground or during heavy rain.
Why Choose Professional Fertilizing in Myrtle Beach?
Coastal expertise: We understand how salt air, humidity, and sandy soils affect turf health.
Customized programs: Based on your soil test, grass type, and lawn goals.
Eco-friendly practices: Exact application rates, buffer zones near water, and cleanup to protect our local waterways.
Ready for a greener, healthier lawn? Contact us today for a free soil test and personalized fertilizing plan—designed exclusively for Myrtle Beach’s unique growing conditions.
Earths Living Landscaping
Green Leaf Dr
Conway, SC 29526
843-602-9872
https://myrtlebeachlandscapingpros.com/
Areas Served:
Carolina Forest, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, Surfside Beach, Forestbrook
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