When Is It Too Cold To Fertilize Your Lawn?

January 11, 2024

When it comes to giving your lawn a feeding or nutrient boost, timing is everything. You’re probably aware that fertilizing in spring and feeding in the fall is crucial for a lush, green lawn. It’s also great to know how early is too early, and how late is too late to spread some fertilizer on your grass. Is there a temperature threshold where it’s just too darn cold to get good results? Or risk involving or attracting pests and fungus?

Luckily we’ve got most of the answers and we’ll dive into your grass’s ability to make the most of fertilizer during the colder season.

Frost and How It Impacts Your Lawn When It Gets Too Cold

Frost can form on your lawn when it’s cold and humid. For us in Texas that’s usually not until early winter to early spring. It’s a myth that you can’t use fertilizer or feed nutrients on your grass when frost appears. The roots of your grass will still be active so your grass can benefit from it. You’ll want to be aware of the risks like introducing fungus, especially if its very humid. Generally, it’s fine to feed your grass even in the winter.

Here’s a nugget of lawn wisdom: many top-notch fall lawn fertilizers are rich in potassium, which can help protect your grass from temperature extremes. So, don’t hesitate to give your lawn some TLC, even when it’s cold outside.

Is It Ever Possible To Fertilize Your Lawn In Cold Weather?

If you’re fertilizing yourself or DIYing, it’s possible to include winter fertilizing in your plan. The roots should be receptive enough to get some little things out of it – but it would be better for you DIYers to fertilize in the fall before it gets really cold and include some small feedings in the winter.

Here at Soils Alive, we believe in fertilizing in spring only and doing feedings the rest of the year (as needed) to keep the grass as green and healthy as possible.

Understanding When Is Best To Fertilize Your Lawn

So remember if you’re DIYing try to fertilize at least twice a year, with spring and early fall being prime times for this green boost. Spring revitalizes your grass after winter, while fall prepares it for the cold months ahead. Timing is crucial, though, as you want active grass for effective fertilization.

If you’re working with a professional, they’ll take care of your fertilizing for you so you won’t have to spend the time planning, buying the equipment, and doing the fertilizing yourself. Typically professionals will only fertilize once a year but it’ll depend on their advice.

Wondering if we can help with your lawn fertilization in Texas? Contact us or call us today to see how we can help you.

Frequently Asked Questions – When Is It Too Cold To Fertilize Lawn

Can I fertilize my lawn in November?

DIY fertilizing in late fall can be done in November or even early December, typically when the grass isn’t actively growing or has halted to the point of not needing to be mowed. If you’re working with a professional, they will typically recommend feeding mostly in the spring and fall and sometimes small feedings in the winter.

What happens if you fertilize during winter?

Having some light feedings (but not a full fertilizing round) during the winter can strengthen the roots even when they are dormant. It helps prepare for the coming dormancy and gives nutrients your lawn can store for better growth in the spring.

How late can you put down winter fertilizer?

Depending on the climate, refrain from applying winterizer too late. We generally recommend applying winter fertilizer in November or even earlier in the fall. Try to avoid December, as it might be too late for the formula to take hold in time to protect your grass.