Tips For Better Fertilizer Application
Briggs & Stratton has compiled a list of tips for its
lawn mower owners so that they can apply fertilizers in a proper manner so that
you can achieve the best results.
- Use a
spreader of good quality. The idea is to spread the fertilizers uniformly with
ease of use. Cheap spreaders may breakdown at any time but a good one is
expected to last quite long if properly maintained.
- Clean
the spreader properly after every use. Due to the chemicals present in the
fertilizers which may corrode the spreader if not cleaned properly.
- Fertilizer applications must be done when the
conditions are ideal. The best time of fertilizer application is a windless day
with some dew on the ground and a freshly mowed lawn. This would ensure a
uniform spread and optimum application of the fertilizer.
- You
must ensure that you make optimum use of the spreaders capabilities. Usually a
rotary spreader covers 6-8 feet at a time. You must keep markers so that you do
not apply twice in the same place.
- Like
professional applicators, you must cover the lawn twice using only half the
amount of fertilizer at a time. This ensures that there are no streaks and you
get a lush green look like that of a golf course.
- To
prevent over application start moving before starting the spreader and stop the
spreader operations before you stop moving. While turning around try and keep
the spreader off and then go round the perimeter of the lawn to complete the
coverage.
- Read
the guidelines for use on fertilizer labels for different kind of spreaders. If
not mentioned, consult the spreaders owners’ manual for proper settings.
- Fertilizers
with large particles are better suited for drop spreaders while water soluble
fertilizers are better applied by rotary spreaders. Choose your fertilizers
according to the type of spreader you have.
- You
must water the lawn immediately after application of fertilizers. Better still,
if you anticipate rain apply fertilizers just before it rains.
Briggs & Stratton recommends the use of drop spreader
attachments to its lawn mowers so you can apply fertilizers as you mow the
lawn.