There’s nothing quite like the sight of a lush, green lawn to bring a sense of peace and tranquility to your outdoor space. But what happens when you start noticing yellow patches in lawn areas that were once vibrant and green? Could it be a sign that you’ve over fertilised your lawn? Let’s dive into this topic and uncover the truth.
Recognising the signs of over fertilisation
Like any living thing, your lawn needs a balanced diet to thrive. Too much of a good thing can be harmful, and fertiliser is no exception. But how do you know if you’ve crossed the line?
Spotting the yellow patches
The first sign that you may have overdone it with the fertiliser is yellow patches in lawn areas. These discoloured areas might look like your grass is dying or burnt – not exactly the lush green paradise you were hoping for! This discolouration is one of the most common signs of “fertiliser burn,” caused by excess salts in the soil that pull moisture out of the grass.
The other warning signs
Beyond yellow patches, other signs of over fertilisation include wilting, browning at the tips of grass blades, and an unusually rapid growth rate followed by a sudden halt. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to take action.
Understanding why over fertilising happens
Over fertilising typically occurs when we get a little too enthusiastic about wanting our lawns to be green and lush. We pour on more fertiliser than necessary, thinking it will speed up growth. However, this can lead to an overload of nutrients which can damage or even kill your grass.
The impact of too much fertiliser on your lawn
So, what exactly does over fertilisation do to your lawn? Let’s break it down.
Immediate effects
Immediately after over fertilising, you’ll likely notice the aforementioned yellow patches in lawn areas. The grass may also become limp and wilted, and you might see a crusty layer of fertiliser on the soil surface.
Long-term consequences
In the long term, Over fertilised lawn areas may struggle to recover. The excess nutrients can disrupt the soil’s balance, making it harder for grass to absorb water and necessary nutrients. This can lead to thinning grass and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
How to recover an over fertilised lawn
The good news is that an over fertilised lawn can be salvaged. The first step is to stop adding more fertiliser immediately. Then, water the area thoroughly to help dilute the excess nutrients. You might also consider aerating the soil to improve its health and structure.
Preventing over fertilisation in the future
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to lawn care. So how can you avoid over fertilising your lawn in the future?
Fertilising wisely
The key is to use fertiliser sparingly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. Remember, more isn’t always better! It’s also important to choose a fertiliser that’s appropriate for your specific type of grass and soil conditions.
Other lawn care tips
Beyond smart fertilising practices, regular mowing, watering, and aerating can all help keep your lawn healthy and prevent issues like yellow patches from cropping up. With a little care and attention, you can maintain a lush, green lawn that’s the envy of the neighbourhood!
