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When to Fertilize Your Lawn in Spring for the Best Results

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Lawn Specialist

(587) 254-2337
Education
Blog

When to Fertilize Your Lawn in Spring for the Best Results

Lawn Care Specialist Headshot

Call us

Lawn Specialist

(587) 254-2337

Written by

Clare Ottenbreit

Spring is the season when Calgary lawns wake up from winter dormancy, ready to grow, thicken, and regain their color. But to achieve that lush, vibrant look that lasts through summer, timing and technique matter more than many homeowners realize. Fertilizer is the foundation for strong roots, healthy soil, and grass that can resist weeds and drought all season long.

We’re here to share what actually works when it comes to when to fertilize your lawn in spring and how to do it for the best results.

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Understanding What Happens Beneath the Surface

When spring begins, most of the lawn’s activity is happening underground. The grass is using its stored energy to rebuild root systems damaged by winter frost. If you apply fertilizer too early, the nutrients are wasted on top growth before the roots are strong enough to support it. The result? Weak blades, uneven growth, and more opportunities for weeds to move in.

Instead, the ideal time to fertilize your lawn in spring is when your grass is actively growing above and below the soil. In Calgary, this typically happens between late May and early June, just as the lawn turns a vibrant green and needs its first mowing. Fertilizing at this stage supports root recovery while providing the essential nitrogen and micronutrients that promote lasting strength and color.

How to Know Your Lawn Is Ready for Fertilizing

The calendar can be helpful, but your lawn gives better clues than the date ever will. Here are a few reliable signs that it’s time to start fertilizing your lawn in spring:

  • The soil has thawed completely — frozen soil prevents nutrients from absorbing properly.
  • Grass has started growing again — it should need a light trim before fertilization.
  • Daytime temperatures consistently reach above 10°C — a good sign of active root development.
  • There’s no heavy rainfall forecasted — fertilizer should be watered in, not washed away.

Applying fertilizer before these conditions are met can cause uneven absorption, runoff, and wasted nutrients. Waiting for the right moment ensures your lawn gets maximum benefit from every treatment.

Professional Fertilization

The Role of Professional Fertilization

While many homeowners try store-bought fertilizers, the reality is that one-size-fits-all products rarely work well in Calgary’s challenging environment. That’s why Yard Dawgs provides customized fertilizer treatments tailored specifically to your property’s needs and grass type.

Our premium fertilizer blends contain a balanced mix of nutrients designed to promote healthy growth without overstimulation. We also use super juice and sea kelp applications to enhance soil vitality naturally — boosting microbial activity, improving root strength, and increasing moisture retention. This combination builds resilient grass that can thrive even during dry spells or high foot traffic.

Our fertilizer service includes:

  • Professionally timed applications for optimal seasonal impact.
  • Slow-release nutrients that feed your lawn gradually over several weeks.
  • Safe, environmentally responsible formulas suited for Calgary’s soil.

Every treatment is backed by our satisfaction guarantee. We’ll continue treating your lawn until it’s flawless.

Complementing Fertilization with Aeration and Seeding

A successful fertilizer plan doesn’t stop with nutrients alone. For lawns to fully absorb fertilizer and grow evenly, the soil must be open and breathable. That’s why mechanical aeration and liquid aeration are such valuable spring services.

If your lawn has thin or bare areas from winter damage, our slit-seeding service can be paired with fertilization. By placing new seed directly into the soil, we help fill gaps quickly, creating thicker turf that naturally resists weeds and drought stress.

Avoiding Common Fertilization Mistakes

Timing isn’t the only factor that determines success. Even well-intentioned homeowners sometimes make mistakes that can set their lawn back instead of helping it. Here are a few key points to remember:

  • Don’t over-fertilize: More isn’t better. Too much fertilizer can burn your grass, cause rapid top growth, and lead to nutrient leaching.
  • Avoid fertilizing before heavy rain: Excess water will wash away nutrients before the soil can absorb them.
  • Water properly afterward: Light watering after application helps activate the fertilizer and move nutrients to the roots.
  • Be consistent: Skipping seasonal treatments makes it harder for your lawn to maintain steady growth.

Professional lawn care teams like Yard Dawgs handle these details for you, so your fertilizer always works efficiently and safely.

Why Calgary Lawns Need a Specialized Approach

Calgary’s unique climate brings both advantages and challenges for lawn care. Our cool-season grasses thrive in moderate temperatures, but fluctuating weather and periods of drought can make it difficult for them to stay green all season. Fertilizing at the wrong time or using the wrong formula can actually make these problems worse.

That is why we tailor every spring fertilization plan to local soil and weather conditions through thoughtful lawn care Calgary expertise. The fertilizers we choose support steady, balanced growth and help prevent the weak, fast growing blades that can follow early or excessive feeding.

Our team’s local expertise means you don’t have to guess. We know exactly when your lawn is ready and what it needs to thrive.

Maintaining Healthy Growth Beyond Spring

Fertilizing your lawn in spring lays the groundwork, but continued care ensures that success lasts. After your spring fertilization, consistent maintenance will keep your lawn healthy throughout summer and fall. Here’s how we help maintain long-term results:

With Yard Dawgs, your lawn is monitored and adjusted as the season progresses. You’ll always have a dedicated support team ready to answer questions or make adjustments based on your property’s unique conditions.

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The Yard Dawgs Promise

We believe your lawn deserves a lasting transformation. When you choose Yard Dawgs, you’re choosing continuous service, expert care, and guaranteed results. If you’re ready to fertilize your lawn in spring for stronger roots, greener grass, and a healthier landscape, our Calgary team is here to help. With a combination of premium fertilizers, expert timing, and year-round support, we’ll make sure your lawn looks its absolute best. Because when it comes to your yard, we don’t just promise perfection. We guarantee it.

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