Can Weed Killer and Fertilization Be Applied Together in the Smyrna, TN, Area?

If you want your Smyrna, TN, lawn to look healthy, lush, and green, you may be wondering if weed killer and fertilization can be applied together. It is possible to have weed killer and fertilizer applied together, but it depends on the specific weed killer that is being used. It’s essential to know which weed killer is needed for the weeds needing to be eliminated, which is why it’s best to leave the lawn care to expert technicians. Here is some basic information about weed killer and fertilization that is important to understand.

Related: Questions to Ask a Lawn Care Specialist About Weed Killer in Columbia and Spring Hill, TN

Weed Control Basics

There are two categories of weed control, including pre-emergent herbicides and post-emergent herbicides. Pre-emergent herbicide is applied before the weeds emerge, preventing weeds from ever growing in the first place.

Pre-emergent weed control is typically applied in the spring when the ground temperature is at least 55 degrees for a couple of days. Another application may be done in the fall when the ground temperature is 70 degrees and dropping.

Post-emergent herbicide is generally a more targeted application rather than one that covers the whole lawn. It works by targeting the root system to kill the weed, so the weed must have germinated for the post-emergent herbicide to work. Specific weed killers are often needed to target specific weeds so that the grass is not killed. Professionals know exactly which weed killers to use and when they should be applied to ensure the health of the lawn.

Fertilization Basics

Lawn care programs generally include approximately seven treatments throughout the growing seasons, ranging from early spring to late fall. Some applications may include weed killers, whether pre-emergent or post-emergent.

There are three primary nutrients used in fertilizer mixes, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The amounts of each may vary throughout the seasons depending on what the lawn needs. Nitrogen tends to be the most important of the three primary nutrients and is often applied in larger amounts.

Some fertilizer mixes include additional micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and copper. An expert lawn care technician can analyze your lawn to determine what nutrients it may be lacking and apply the perfect mixture of nutrients to help your lawn grow and thrive.

Additional Lawn Care Services for a Healthy Lawn

If your lawn is compacted, meaning the soil is hard, and there is a thick layer of thatch, it may be difficult for fertilizer, water, and oxygen to reach the root system. In order for the fertilization and weed-killer efforts to work, you may need to have your lawn aerated.

Aeration involves the removal of plugs of grass and soil. This loosens up the ground, allowing nutrients, air, and water to reach the root system. It often results in a healthier and more vibrant lawn. Having your lawn fertilized immediately after aeration is a great way to give your lawn a boost.

You may also want to consider having an irrigation system professionally installed on your property. With a smart irrigation system, there are sensors that detect the moisture level in the soil and only water your lawn when it’s needed. This helps conserve water and ensures your lawn has the appropriate amount of water.

Related: Not Sure Which Weed Killer Is Needed for Your Smyrna, TN, Area Lawn? Here’s How the Pros Can Help