Spring Lawn Care in Texas: When it Comes to Fertilizing, What Really Matters?
Springtime in Plano, Allen, Frisco, McKinney, and across North Texas is primetime for lawn care. Homeowners frequently wonder what the best time is to fertilize their lawn and whether they should mow before.
We asked our lawn care specialist, Ryan Moffatt, for his best answer, and here’s what he said:
Wait 24 hours to a few days after mowing before fertilizing your lawn.
Should I mow before fertilizing?
“While you do want to mow before you fertilize, Texas lawns do not require strict timing in between. Mowing gives you better, more even soil contact, ensures even blade height, and prevents fertilizer burn on taller blades. I would, however, recommend waiting at least a day or two after fertilizing to mow again to allow the nutrients to absorb into the soil.”
Why Strict Timing Isn’t Necessary
At CitiTurf, we use slow-release products and ensure even distribution and absorption. These are the two most essential aspects of lawn fertilization. So, despite what you might read online about waiting 24-72 hours after mowing to fertilize, strict timing isn’t always necessary.
The good news is, you’ll be able to get on with your lawn care and worry less about when you need to do each step.
Choose a slow-release granular fertilizer, as they are formulated to be safe and effective, regardless of when you mow. Slow-release fertilizers break down slowly, providing steady nutrient delivery over time without the risk of burning or stressing your lawn.
The bottom line? There’s no need to wait. Mow your lawn, apply the fertilizer, and then wait a day or two before mowing again.
Understanding Thatch in Texas Lawns and How it Impacts Fertilization
Thatch can be an issue with some Texas lawns, depending on your region and the type of grass you have planted.
Thatch is basically dead grass and debris buildup in lawns that can block nutrients from reaching the soil.
Overfertilizing with nitrogen can increase thatch accumulation, so if you have concerns, speak to us about the best type of fertilizer for your needs.
In general, thatch buildup is pretty rare. Unless, that is, you have fescue or bluegrass, which are common in more northerly regions of Texas. Acidic soils will accumulate thatch faster. If you are concerned about thatch, have your soil tested to determine if any corrections are needed.
With Zoysia, Bermuda, or St. Augustine, regular mowing will reliably prevent thatch from forming.
We do not recommend dethatching warm-season grasses, as this can damage the lawn.
When Mowing and Fertilizing Should Be Coordinated
The only time we adjust mowing/fertilization timing is during scalping season. Scalping refers to cutting grass very short at the start of spring.
During this period, we avoid fertilizing immediately after scalping since the turf is already under mild stress.
Barring that scenario, mowing and fertilizing can happen on the same day or in any order, and your lawn will thrive.
The key to a healthy lawn isn’t exact timing. Using the right fertilizer and keeping a consistent schedule throughout the growing season will deliver a beautiful lawn with far less effort on your part.
Why CitiTurf’s Fertilization Process Works So Well
CitiTurf’s lawn care experts use professional-grade, slow-release granular fertilizers that release nutrients for 6 to 8 weeks.
These products are easy to apply, don’t require watering the same day, and won’t wash away or burn your grass even if you use a little too much.
Our products stay in place even after mowing.
When our lawn technicians do the job, we mulch clippings instead of bagging them. This allows the fertilizer to break down naturally over time. You’ll notice improvements throughout the season; as your soil health improves, your lawn will too.
- Scalp the lawn (early spring only) to remove dormant growth.
- Apply a slow-release fertilizer.
- Mow and mulch clippings. There’s no need to bag or remove fertilizer.
- Water the lawn normally on your next scheduled watering day.
Serving North Texas Homeowners with Trusted Lawn Care Expertise
Everybody enjoys a beautiful, healthy, green lawn, but not everyone has the time or energy to maintain it themselves.
CitiTurf has been providing North Texas homeowners with professional lawn care and outdoor services since 2005, and we’re number one for a reason!
Our team manages everything from spring fertilization to summer weed control and fall maintenance, providing our customers with reliable expertise they can trust.
We aim to take the hassle out of lawn care so you can spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying it.
Our services include:
- 8-step fertilization and weed control program
- Regular lawn mowing and edging
- Seasonal treatments for year-round color, vibrancy, and health
- Professional monitoring, maintenance, and care for every growth stage
We serve homeowners in Plano, Allen, Frisco, McKinney, Murphy, and nearby communities and would be happy to drop by your property to provide a quote.
To Mow or Not to Mow After Fertilizing
Don’t get hung up on all the lawn care advice you read online. North Texas is a unique environment that doesn’t always align with general guidelines.
All you need to know is that complicated timing rules aren’t necessary. Using the right products and following the basic protocol we’ve outlined here is enough to ensure the gorgeous, healthy lawn you want.
Of course, if you’d prefer not to do the work yourself, we’re always here for you. Our team will ensure your grass receives proper care and attention at the right times throughout the year.
