Knowledgebase

Can you advise me on fertilizing my lawn based on my MSU soil test results? #866037

Asked April 26, 2024, 5:59 PM EDT

I have just reviewed my soil test results (image attached). I want to follow the following fertilizer recommendation and have three questions about the fertilizing. "Triple" Fertilizer (1:1:1 N:P2O5:K2O ratios) Sample analysis: 12-12-12, 10-10-10, 16-16-16 For the lowest soil test P levels, triple products could apply the recommended P rate in one year with at the most 2.5 applications (based on 1 lb. N/1000 ft.²/application rates). For the lowest K soil test levels, triple products could apply the recommended K rate in one year with 4 applications. My questions: 1. Can I apply four applications this year if I already applied a crabgrass preventer and fertilizer in early April? 2. At what intervals should I fertilize this year (four applications)? 3. Do you have a recommendation for the brand of triple fertilizer I should buy? Thank you.

Kent County Michigan

Expert Response

Gary - in reviewing your soil test results your soil looks healthy except for the Potassium which is low.  When looking for a fertilizer, be guided by the 1:0:1 ratio which will provide both Nitrogen and Potassium.  Since the Phosphorous is at Optimum, we would not recommend applying more.  This nutrient stays in the soil and is affecting Michigan water areas.  See the article below for more info.

So a 12-0-12 or 10-010 fertilizer will fit that ratio.   You may want to consider a separate Potassium fertilizer application to address the Potassium that is Below Optimum. For the products you purchase, I recommend you come back to the soil test web site and enter the nutrient numbers from the product into the Fertilizer Calculator (found under Tools) and the site will calculate for you how much of that product to apply in a year for 1,000 sq. ft.  If you have more or less sq. ft. be sure to pro-rate the amount.  

At the bottom of your soil test results, you will see a Home Lawn  Fertilizing Timing Chart which gives you options based upon your own preference for time spent fertilizing.  Always fertilize on lawns that are irrigated or have adequate moisture in the soil from rain.  And, yes you may begin applying fertilizer even if you have already applied Crabgrass Preventer/Fertilizer.  I would count the the April application as your first one of the year and apply 2-3 more based upon your selection of a schedule.  We do not recommend brand names but would recommend that you look closely at the fertilizer label to understand the product contents.  Below is a link with more details about that. 

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/smart_soils_what_you_can_do_to_reduce_phosphorus

Good job starting with a soil test.  Hope that helps!

Diane - MSU Advanced Extension Master Gardener Replied April 28, 2024, 3:10 PM EDT

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