Maintenance of roll-out lawns
Fertilizing the lawn - general rules
Consistent fertilization of roll-out lawns is essential if we want to obtain beautiful and dense grass that will delight the eye with its pristine greenery in the period from early spring to late autumn. In the case of roll-out lawns, mineral fertilizers will be most appropriate. It is important to maintain the appropriate proportions of N:P:K macronutrients. The optimal level of this ratio is 6:2:4. To obtain the effect of a uniform colour and proper growth, fertilizers must be distributed evenly.
Fertilizing the lawn with nitrogen
Nitrogen affects the regrowth and development of grasses and determines their colour. This is because this element increases the chlorophyll content in leaves. The first spring nitrogen fertilization of the lawn should be carried out when the temperature of the upper soil layers rises to about 5°C and the grass is well raked. Nitrogen is not used in fall. When entering the dormant period, the grass must not be too lush. For the fertilization of intensively used and irrigated lawns, the annual nitrogen dose is from 3.0 to 4.0 kg N/100 m2.
The use of phosphorus to fertilize turf
Phosphorus is used to improve the development of the root system of the roll-out lawn. The element easily transforms into compounds that are difficult to absorb for plants, especially in acidic soil, but it can be reactivated by microorganisms. The doses of the fertilizer depend on the type of soil and are on average 0.6-1.3 kg per 100 m2. Higher doses are used for sports and carpet lawns.
Beneficial effect of potassium on the soil
Compact soils (clayey, clay) are usually rich in potassium compounds that are available for plants. However, the problem of shortages may appear in the case of light, sandy and peaty soils. Potassium has a positive effect on the regulation of plant water management and the course of photosynthesis. It also increases grass resistance to diseases and frost. Potassium is easily rinsed out into the deeper layers, so the annual dose should be applied twice or three times, especially in fall.
Liming the lawn
Liming is needed mainly in acidic soils (with a pH below 5.5). In such a case, calcium can significantly improve the pH of the soil, and also helps the grass to use up phosphorus and activates potassium. Calcium also accelerates the decomposition of humus and thus releases nitrogen.
