Lawn Care
Learn simple lawn care practices that support healthy grass, reduce runoff and help protect local waterways.
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Fertilizing
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Healthy Lawns Start with Smart Fertilizing
Fertilizers help lawns and landscapes grow, but applying more than your yard needs can have unintended consequences. Excess nutrients can wash into storm drains, rivers and the Chesapeake Bay, contributing to water-quality problems. The good news? A few simple practices can help you grow a healthy lawn while protecting local waterways.
Test Your Soil
Before applying fertilizer, start with a soil test. Hampton Roads soils often contain plenty of phosphorus already, and many lawns need less fertilizer than homeowners think.
A soil test can help you:
- Determine which nutrients your lawn actually needs
- Avoid unnecessary fertilizer applications
- Save money on lawn care products
- Reduce nutrient runoff into local waterways
Know Your Grass
Different grass types have different fertilizer and watering needs. Understanding whether you have warm-season or cool-season grass can help you apply the right products at the right time.
Following the correct schedule helps promote healthy growth while reducing waste.
Cool Season Grasses
- Ex: Tall fescue (mow to 3-4″), Fine fescue (mow to 2-3″), Ryegrass (mow to 1 ½ – 2 ½”)
- Ideal for areas that get light shade
- Seed in late summer
- Mow at higher heights during summer months
- Do not cut more than ⅓ of the grass height at one mowing
Warm Season Grasses
- Ex: Zoysiagrass (¾ to 1”), Centipedegrass (mow to 1 ½”), Bermuda grass (mow to ½ – 1”)
- Ideal for areas that get full sun
- Seed in early spring
- Do not cut more than ⅓ of the grass height at one mowing
Fertilize Responsibly
A few simple habits can help your lawn get the nutrients it needs while keeping excess fertilizer out of the local waterways.
- Choose fertilizers that contain slow-release nitrogen when possible
- Avoid fertilizing before heavy rain
- Sweep fertilizer off sidewalks, driveways and streets
- Leave grass clippings on the lawn to return nutrients to the soil naturally
- Follow label instructions and avoid over-applying fertilizer
Related Links
Soil Testing
Find out how soil testing can help you choose the right lawn and garden care while reducing unnecessary fertilizer use.
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Native Plants
Explore how native plants support wildlife, conserve water and create healthier outdoor spaces in Hampton Roads.
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Composting
Learn how composting food scraps and yard refuse can reduce waste, enrich soil and support a healthier yard.
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