5-Step Lawn Fertilization Program


Application #1  Early spring, full-release fertilizer with crab grass preventer
Application #2  Late spring, full-release fertilizer with broadleaf weed control
Application #3  Early summer, full-release fertilizer with iron treatments 
-Grub control may also be done at this time for an               additional charge
Application #4  Late summer, full-release fertilizer with broadleaf weed control
Application #5  Fall, slow-release fertilizer with high nitrogen for winterization
-Winterization helps put your lawn to bed for the long winter,      also supplies nutrients for a quick green-up in spring.

General Questions & Answers
What am I paying for in the 5-step turf program?
The basic program includes approximately 4lbs of nitrogen/1000 sqft throughout the growing season.  Nitrogen is applied in every application.  The 5-step program also includes a crabgrass preventer in the spring and 2 broadleaf weed control applications (spring/fall).

Why use 5 steps?
We at TimberPine firmly believe a 5-step turf program is just as effective as a 6, 7, 8....step program.  Regardless of how many steps are in a turf program, around 4lbs/1000 sqft will be applied throughout the growing season.  The products TimberPine uses are a combination of fast release and slow release (sulfur coated and polymer coated) granular fertilizers to give an even release of nutrients.

What is a lawn weed?
A lawn weed is simply a plant that is out of place, disrupting the uniformity of the turf. In some instances, plants that we consider weeds are actually very useful in other settings. There are two basic types of weeds that occur in lawns: Grassy Weeds and Broadleaf Weeds.

Grassy Weeds are broken down into two categories: Annual Grassy Weeds and Perennial Grassy Weeds

Annual Grassy Weeds are plants like crabgrass that start from seed every spring.  They are controlled by using preventative herbicides.

Perennial Grassy Weeds are plants like Tall Fescue or Quackgrass which survive through the winter.  Perennial Grassy Weeds are difficult to control and must be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Broadleaf Weeds are generally easier to control than Grassy Weeds.  There are over 50 different types of Broadlead Weeds that can be found in turf in Iowa.  Broadleaf weeds are treated with a broadcast and/or spot spray of herbicide. 

How safe are the products?
TimberPine exclusively uses granular fertilizers which are considered non-hazardous materials.  There is no record of injury from the granular fertilizers we use.  Our weed and insect control methods are classified as "practically non-toxic", the lowest persticide toxicity classification.  Conscientious applications made by our trained and certified employees further reduce any risk associated with the products.  The label states that there should be no entry onto lawns until the leaves are dry, but for additional safety we recommend staying off your lawn for 24 hours. 

Is Grub Control included in standard fertilizer program?
No, our standard lawn care program does not include grub control.  Grubs can destroy a turf by eating the roots, causing the plants to die from lack of water.  The only option, after a grub has destroyed your lawn, is to re-seed or sod.  For best results, a preventative grub control application is recommended.

How do I pay?
There are 2 methods of payments.  The easiest way is to pre-pay for the services to be performed during the year.  By doing so, you're eligible for a 7% discount on every step.  If pre-payment is not chosen, we will send an invoice through email or mail, with payment by credit card or check is due upon receipt.

Should I re-seed my lawn?
All lawns can benefit from re-seeding.  When seed is applied it acts like a weed control program, choking out the weeds in bare areas within the lawn. 

Should I aerate my lawn and when is the best time?
Lawn aeration is a key factor to maintaining a healthy lawn.  The ideal time to aerate is in the spring or fall.  Aeration helps increase soil porosity leading to better air, water and fertilizer infiltration into the root zone.  
Aeration is also beneficial as it:
  • decreases compaction caused by traffic
  • improves rooting and turf quality
  • increases microbial activity
  • reduces thatch
  • increases tolerance to heat and cold