First question - chemical versus natural?
The very first question you have to decide is whether you wish to use chemical fertilizers to feed your lawn or do you only wish to use natural means to feed your lawn? The evidence suggests that in the short term a better lawn can be achieved with the use of chemicals, but this takes no account of the environmental impact of chemicals. Furthermore, we believe that a better long term solution is organic or natural. In some sense, it's the question of a tortoise versus the hare approach. We will discuss both options but leave the ultimate decision to you.
FEEDING Basics
First let's consider the basic root elements of lawn feeding which apply to both natural and chemical feeding. These are the macro-nutrients. They are the biggest part, but not the only plant necessities.
Option 1 Feeding Your Lawn Naturally - our favorite!
PHOSPHATE
Use a hand scatterer and sprinkle a cup of bone meal per square yard over the lawn in fall. Rate of application is not especially critical because bone meal is slow release, it will not burn the lawn and takes time to break down and release nutrients. This will provide your lawn with a good supply of phosphate throughout the year.
HOW TO APPLY NITROGEN?
The ABSOLUTELY best way to feed your lawn naturally with nitrogen is simply to leave the the lawn cuttings on the lawn every other time it is cut. Contrary to popular belief, you will not get a thatch buildup! In a healthy lawn, grass cuttings are quickly decomposed and returned as a good nitrogen source to the soil. In the event growth is so thick that thatch does result, simply rake and use the grass clippins in a compost pile.
Indeed, well rotted compost which is crumbly is the very best addition to a lawn. It promotes a slower steady growth while improving soil texture and tilth. Spread it over the lawn so that it barely covers the surface, then rake it well into the lawn so that none remains on the surface. This can be applied in spring or summer, but is of best use when applied in spring.
POTASH
This is only moderately essential for a healthy lawn and indeed the very best source is to simply use compost as outlined above in the nitrogen section. Indeed, if you are using composted grass and leaves your lawn will receive all the potash it needs to thrive!
LIME
Hydated agricultural lime is the only pragmatic source of lime for your lawn. However, in practice lime is rarely necessary except in extreme soil ph conditions. Consult your local agricultural specialist if you believe you might need to apply lime in your area. In most cases you will receive excellent advice at no cost!
Option 2 Feeding and Weeding Your Lawn With Chemicals
In recent years the major lawn care supplies have devised complete feeding programs with multi-ingredient and timed delivery systems. If you are going to go chemical our best advice is to follow a manufacturers' program as stated on the materials. We recommend Scott's but suggest going slightly lighter than the the suggested rates. We also advise skipping every other year and using corn meal gluten only during alternat years!
Study the instructions carefully before applying any of the above treatments because over-application will result in damage to your lawn. If the lawn suffers from over-application, water it heavily every third day over a two week period.
How To Apply Fertiliser
Whichever method you choose, it is essential that the treatment is applied evenly to avoid scorching the lawn in places. We favor hand application with a small scatter spreader. Large spreaders often leave scorched areas due to incorrect feed through!
For hand application:
First rule is to always use gloves and wash your hands afterward - remember, you are using dangerous chemicals. The best method is to use half going up and down the lawn then use the other half going crossways across the lawn.