Having an attractive lawn will add a great deal of curb appeal to a single-family rental property in Salem while putting a smile on your tenants. The important thing to do to keep a green and healthy lawn is to fertilize it regularly. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your rental property’s lawn looking great throughout the warmer months.
1. Start in the Spring
When you want to have a beautiful garden, you should know the correct timing and the best time to apply the first round of fertilizer to your rental’s lawn is early in the spring. When the soil has warmed up to around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, that is the best time to apply some fertilizer. You may determine that the soil is warm enough by watching for the first new growth of grass. In many areas of the country, the first feeding typically happens in mid-April.
2. Buy the Right Fertilizer
When you go to the store to buy fertilizers, it is important to look for the right mix of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. Landscapers and lawn care experts recommend choosing a fertilizer with a mixture of 20-5-10 for spring. It is also a smart option to choose a slow-release fertilizer that comes in granular form. Slow-release fertilizers break down into the soil over time, so that you won’t have to fertilize as often. Also, using a granular fertilizer makes it easier to apply and to control how much you use.
3. Water Regularly
Many property owners make the mistake of sometimes overwatering their lawn because they think it would reduce the need for fertilizer. However, if you water your lawn and stimulate growth, you’ll need to apply more fertilizer to provide the appropriate amount of nutrients. When applying fertilizer, make sure to check the label and follow watering instructions. Some types of fertilizer require a wet lawn for application, while others can be applied when the lawn is dry. Once again, it still depends on you on how you take care and how you follow the proper steps to water your lawn.
4. Use the Right Spreader
For the lawns of single-family rental homes, experts typically recommend the use of a broadcast spreader for fertilizing. A broadcast spreader is relatively inexpensive and easy to use and will help you control how much fertilizer you use. For small areas, think about using a handheld broadcast spreader, which you typically crank by hand. When using a spreader, it is essential to walk at a steady pace to ensure consistent coverage.
5. Apply Carefully
For large lawn areas, specialists suggest using a specific pattern to spread fertilizer evenly. For example, one recommended approach is to start by going around the perimeter of the lawn first, then fill in the middle area by working in only one direction. Apply the first half of the fertilizer this way, then spread the second half by moving in a perpendicular direction to your first application. This routine will ensure even coverage and prevent using too much fertilizer in any one place.
Remember…
After your rental property’s first feeding in April, plan to fertilize your lawn at least four more times. Experts recommend applying the second round of fertilizer after four weeks, then every six to eight weeks throughout the summer and fall.
By using these simple methods, your rental property’s lawn can grow strong and healthy season after season. At Real Property Management Colonial, we understand you are busy with your professional life, and that’s the reason why we’re here to assist you. Talk to one of our Salem property managers at 540-595-7411 and get additional information today.
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