When to Fertilize Your Lawn in Northern Illinois

In Northern Illinois, timing is everything for a healthy lawn. Fertilizing at the right time strengthens roots and promotes lush, green grass. Here's the best schedule:

Early Spring (April)

Apply a slow-release fertilizer when the soil warms up to about 55°F. This encourages strong root growth and jumpstarts recovery from winter dormancy. Aerate your lawn beforehand to allow better nutrient penetration.

Late Spring (May-June)

Use a balanced fertilizer to help the lawn prepare for the summer heat. This application should focus on maintaining steady growth without pushing excessive top growth, which can stress your lawn.

Early Fall (September)

Fall fertilization is crucial. Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to repair summer damage and fortify the lawn for the upcoming winter. Healthy fall growth leads to greener grass in the spring.

Late Fall (October-November)

Apply a winterizer fertilizer that supports root growth and hardiness. This step helps your lawn survive freezing temperatures and bounce back quickly in the spring.

Pro Tip: Avoid fertilizing during the hottest summer months (July-August), as it can burn the grass and do more harm than good!

Save time and get professional results — let our lawn care experts handle your fertilization schedule for you. Contact us today for a free consultation!