Knowledgebase
Lawn fertilizer recommendations #865029
Asked April 18, 2024, 5:06 PM EDT
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello Elizabeth
Based on your soil test results I would not apply anymore lime. Kentucky bluegrass grows well at pH between 6.0 and 7.0 Applying lime could raise your pH above 7.0
https://extension.psu.edu/kentucky-bluegrass
Otherwise you can follow the remainder of the recommendations for your lawn. Here is a reference that has a table of organic fertilizers you may use:
https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/hyg-4031
I would also recommend you mulch your grass clippings, or allow them to work into the soil. This will maintain your organic matter, which is good at around 5%. It also contributes some nitrogen back to the soil, you may reduce the nitrogen you apply separately each season by 10% when you mulch your clippings.
When you cut the lawn, cut so the grass stands about 3 inches tall after cutting; this helps create a thick stand because it shades out weeds from germinating and leaves enough grass blade to feed the roots.
MSU Extension has a nice residential lawn care site with articles and videos on various lawn care topics:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/files/3-20GoGreenTipSheet.pdf