Top 4 Fertilizer Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them

1. Skipping a Soil Test

Why it matters: Without knowing your soil’s nutrient levels and pH, you’re guessing at what your grass really needs.
Quick fix:

• Collect 10–12 samples from different spots on your lawn, 3–4 inches deep.

• Remove any grass or roots, mix together, and send one cup of the blend to a reputable lab or your county extension office.

• Use the results to choose the right balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—and to correct pH issues (ideal range: 6.5–7.0).

• Tip: Test annually until results stabilize, then every 2–3 years.

2. Overfertilizing

Why it backfires: Excess nutrients wash away in Myrtle Beach’s sandy soils, polluting waterways and wasting money.
Quick fix:

• Set your spreader to half the recommended rate and make two perpendicular passes.

• Aim for two applications per year—early fall and late spring—instead of a four-step regimen.

3. Fertilizing at the Wrong Time

Why it hurts: Timing affects uptake, growth, and stress tolerance.
Quick fix:

• Early September: Main feeding to rebuild reserves after summer heat.

• Mid-October: “Winterizer” to strengthen roots before cooler weather.

• Mid-Spring (optional): Light feeding paired with pre-emergent crabgrass control.

• Midsummer (sparingly): Only if your lawn truly needs a boost—and always in cooler, overcast conditions.

4. Careless Application

Why it’s risky: Uncontrolled spread can harm water quality and irritate neighbors.
Quick fix:

• Keep granules at least 6–8 feet from ponds, streams, or storm drains.

• Sweep or blow any stray fertilizer off hard surfaces back onto the grass.

• Never apply to frozen ground or during heavy rain.

Why Choose Professional Fertilizing in Myrtle Beach?

• Coastal expertise: We understand how salt air, humidity, and sandy soils affect turf health.

• Customized programs: Based on your soil test, grass type, and lawn goals.

• Eco-friendly practices: Exact application rates, buffer zones near water, and cleanup to protect our local waterways.

Ready for a greener, healthier lawn? Contact us today for a free soil test and personalized fertilizing plan—designed exclusively for Myrtle Beach’s unique growing conditions.

Earths Living Landscaping
Green Leaf Dr
Conway, SC 29526
843-602-9872
https://myrtlebeachlandscapingpros.com/

Areas Served:

Carolina Forest, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, Surfside Beach, Forestbrook