Question
Hi -
I am located in eastern MA and have an established lawn that looks pretty good - by no means pristine but pretty decent looking. I used a national lawn service for a few years and last year switched to a local service with what I believe were similar results - they both did 6 applications.
I've just received a statement for my 2008 service and see that they have added a 7th application at the beginning of the year.  My gut reaction is that they are just trying to get more money out of me, but curious what your opinion is on this schedule of services.  I was told I can refuse the first treatment if I desire. Thanks in advance for your comments.

Round 1 Application: Early Spring 揃ooster?March-April
稟 High Potash early Spring application is applied to green up the lawn and strengthen the root system.
?2-24-11 1%

Round 2 Application: Spring Treatment: April-May
稟n Application of fertilizer with dimension crabgrass preventative is applied to your lawn.
稵his will boost the speed of growth and color with your lawn for the spring.

Round 3 Late Spring /Early Summer Application: May-June
稟 weed control is applied for present weeds.
稟n additional feed fertilizer accompanies.
?5-2-5 1%

Round 4 Summer: June-July
稟n application of slow release organic fertilizer is applied to ensure continued growth through the dry season.
稴pot weeding is also applied for any present weeds and crabgrass
?5-2-5 1%

Round 5 Late Summer: July - August
稟 second application of organic fertilizer is applied to green up the lawn as the season embarks into the wet and cool part of the year.
稴pot weeding applied to control any present weeds.
?5-2-5 1%

Round 6 Early Fall: August-September
稟 Third application of organic fertilizer is applied to green up the lawn as the season embarks into the wet and cool part of the year.
?5-2-5 1%

Round 7 Late Fall Winter Application: September-October
稟 winterizer fertilizer is applied to prepare the lawn for another harsh New England winter.
稵his application helps provide nutrients to the roots of the grass as it enters its dormant stage
稟t this time any lawns requiring a balanced pH level are treated with lime
?-1-3 1%


Answer
Liz:

I am gratified that you are using an organic service.  I believe that you will realize long term benefits from this practice in the performance of your lawn.

I am also glad that there are so many organic products available, many more than when I offered the services.  While happy to see such an intensive program, I am not aware of any organic fertilizer which will attain a 25% nitrogen level.

If I had to choose which to drop, I may pick one in the summer, June-August.  In my experience, fall, winter and early spring is the time to load the soil with organic fertilizers.   They are available when the plants start to grow.  Potash is always a good nutrient to add.  Nitrogen in summer makes me nervous, but, then, I am from the south where we dare not add it without irrigation.

I have found that ample organic fertilizer in late fall does wonders in the spring.  Often, I would topdress with a high quality compost once per year in fall and nothing for the rest of the year.  But I never had the palette of organic fertilizers available today.

Please remember that developing a fine lawn is a maintenance item, not an installation coup.  It may take several years to get your ideal turf.

Hope this helps.  Best wishes.