Soil test ( lawns) - Ask Extension
If I use triple fertile to get them and k needed for my grass, it grows fast but doesn't help the root growth which is very important. So with the tr...
Knowledgebase
Soil test ( lawns) #889317
Asked November 04, 2024, 12:43 PM EST
If I use triple fertile to get them and k needed for my grass, it grows fast but doesn't help the root growth which is very important. So with the triple fertilizer what can I use for better root growth?
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
I'm sorry but your question isn't very clear to me. It sounds like you want to increase root growth while using triple fertilizer (which contains phosphorous). Beginning January 1, 2012, phosphorus fertilizer applications are restricted on residential lawns in Michigan unless a soil test indicates the need for phosphorous. More info in the article in the attached link: State of MI Phosphorous Restriction for Lawns
The MSU soil test will give you data on the fertility of your soil (phosphorous level, potassium level, magnesium level, calcium level, CEC, soil type, lime index, pH and organic matter%). Knowing the type and fertility of your soil is the starting point to establishing & maintaining a strong turf that can resist diseases, weeds, moss and insects/grubs, look great and at an optimal cost. More info here: Don't Guess-Soil Test-MSU and MSU Home Soil Test-self mailer It provides recommendations on fertilization and pH changes if needed. Phosphorous (P) is important for root development and flowering. Too much phosphorous is detrimental to lakes and streams. Potassium (K) promotes natural plant resistance to disease, drought, cold and heat damage. Here is part of my confusion-you want better root growth (from phosphorous) but you want to add more potassium (K) which doesn't affect root growth.
Another way to increase root growth is to mow higher. Read the articles in the attached links:
Mowing Lawn Turf (E0013TURF) - MSU
Why Mow High-MSU
Root depth varies naturally between spring (deeper), summer (shallower) and fall (deeper). Do not fertilize too early in the spring as the nitrogen will force top growth at the expense of root growth.
Bottom line.... Do a soil test (if you haven't done one in the past 2 years), if the results indicate a need for phosphorous continue using your triple fertilizer and follow the test report fertilizing recommendations. If P is not needed, stop using the triple.
The MSU soil test will give you data on the fertility of your soil (phosphorous level, potassium level, magnesium level, calcium level, CEC, soil type, lime index, pH and organic matter%). Knowing the type and fertility of your soil is the starting point to establishing & maintaining a strong turf that can resist diseases, weeds, moss and insects/grubs, look great and at an optimal cost. More info here: Don't Guess-Soil Test-MSU and MSU Home Soil Test-self mailer It provides recommendations on fertilization and pH changes if needed. Phosphorous (P) is important for root development and flowering. Too much phosphorous is detrimental to lakes and streams. Potassium (K) promotes natural plant resistance to disease, drought, cold and heat damage. Here is part of my confusion-you want better root growth (from phosphorous) but you want to add more potassium (K) which doesn't affect root growth.
Another way to increase root growth is to mow higher. Read the articles in the attached links:
Mowing Lawn Turf (E0013TURF) - MSU
Why Mow High-MSU
Root depth varies naturally between spring (deeper), summer (shallower) and fall (deeper). Do not fertilize too early in the spring as the nitrogen will force top growth at the expense of root growth.
Bottom line.... Do a soil test (if you haven't done one in the past 2 years), if the results indicate a need for phosphorous continue using your triple fertilizer and follow the test report fertilizing recommendations. If P is not needed, stop using the triple.
