- 1). Calibrate your spreader to apply 1/2 to 1 lb. of quick-release nitrogen fertilizer per 1,000 square feet of grass. Using more than that, especially in warm weather, could damage the grass. If your soil is sandy, use 1/4 to 1/2 lb. nitrogen to avoid leaching.
- 2). Place half the calculated amount of fertilizer in the spreader and apply it over the entire lawn. Then add the remaining amount to the spreader and spread it over the lawn, moving in a perpendicular direction. This prevents bare spots.
- 3). Water the grass thoroughly after applying fertilizer, providing at least 1/4 to 1/2 inch of water. This helps prevent leaf burn. However, don't water so much that water runs off the lawn; runoff contributes to pollution.
- 4). Sweep up any fertilizer spilled on the driveway or other areas. Spilled fertilizer pollutes the water supply and disturbs aquatic ecosystems.
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