Springtime is fertilising time for many a UK homeowner. Or should we say, 'lawn feeding' time? Regardless of the term you use, fertilising your lawn at the start of the growing season could be very helpful in maintaining a lush and beautiful lawn all year long. Fertiliser helps your grass rebound from a rough winter and build up strength for the dry and hot summer months.

Whether you are fertilising on your own or hiring a lawn care company, pay attention to these five tips for spring fertilising:

1. Just Say 'No' to Phosphorus

A fertiliser including phosphorus is not necessarily a bad idea, but phosphorus should be kept to a minimum. Phosphorus is necessary for healthy roots and good shoot growth, but it also contributes to algae growth in rivers and streams. When phosphorus from your fertiliser washes away in the rain, you could be contributing to algae growth elsewhere.

Fertilisers in the UK are labelled with a three-digit ratio for nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (N:P:K). Look for a label with a phosphorus level of between 12% and 20%. That amount of phosphorus should be enough to keep your lawn healthy without unnecessarily contributing to algae growth.

2. Wait for Growth in Your Lawn

Many people make the mistake of fertilising dormant Grass for sale hoping that doing so will encourage it to grow faster and fuller. In reality, you are just wasting fertiliser. In cooler climates, you will have to wait until you see the first signs of budding trees and flowers.

3. Don't Use Quick Release Fertilisers

Quick release fertilisers can be tempting because they cost less and promise faster results. Unfortunately, these types of fertilisers do not penetrate or feed well. Many of them will wash completely away with the first rainstorm that blows through. You are better off investing a little more money in a high-quality fertiliser that will stick around long enough to do its job.

4. Use Fertilisers Sparingly

Another common mistake when feeding the lawn is using too much fertiliser, too often. Remember that your grass will grow on its own even if you do not fertilise. The point of adding fertiliser is to help it along and to provide the nutrients necessary for extra strength during the growing season. Most lawns need only to be fertilised once in the spring and once in the autumn.

5. Save Weed and Feed for Summer

Weed and feed products do not work very well no matter when you apply them. Nevertheless, if you apply them too early, they will actually end up being counterproductive by feeding and promoting weed growth. Your best defence against weeds is healthy grass that will choke the weeds out. So do yourself a favour and save the weed and feed for the hot summer months when the grass needs a little extra help.

Using fertilisers the right way can pay off very nicely. We urge all our customers to read the instructions that come with your fertiliser before applying it. If you have any questions, check with an expert.