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How to use lawn fertiliser

Mastering the art of lush lawns: your expert guide to optimal lawn fertilisation

Overview

To keep your lawn healthy and thriving, it’s essential to select the right lawn fertiliser and use it correctly. We have a wide range of fertilisers tailored to different lawn types and nutrient requirements. Here’s how to choose and apply the right one for your lawn.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. Always store products out of the reach of children and pets.

Steps

  1. 1

    Identify your lawn type

    Start by figuring out what type of grass you have. Look closely at the leaf blade to determine if it's buffalo, couch, kikuyu, zoysia, Bermuda, or fescue. Zoysia has fine to medium leaves and excellent heat tolerance, while kikuyu has coarse leaves and spreads quickly. Buffalo has broad, coarser leaves with good shade tolerance. Couch has fine-textured, light green leaves, and Bermuda is drought-tolerant. Fescue has a distinct leaf texture and thrives in colder climates.

    Become a grass type expert for a lush, thriving lawn!
  2. 2

    Choose a chemical or organic fertiliser

    There are two main types of grass fertiliser: chemical and organic. Chemical fertilisers work wonders for quick growth and creating that lush, green look. Organic fertilisers are more eco-friendly and promote overall soil health, even though they break down a bit more slowly.
    Fertiliser showdown: Chemical vs. Organic
  3. 3

    Select the right nutrient blend

    There are different lawn fertilisers designed for different grass types. Each fertiliser contains essential macronutrients vital for optimal growth, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N:P:K). To address specific lawn needs, check the nutrient blend on the packaging. If your grass looks yellow, it may lack nitrogen, while potassium strengthens cell walls, enhancing turf durability against extreme weather. Phosphorus promotes healthy root growth, but only a small percentage is usually required.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Kikuyu responds well to nitrogen. For couch or Bermuda, limit nitrogen application and consider using liquid iron or micronutrients for colour enhancement.
    Bunnings lawn fertilisers for your grass type
  4. 4

    Select the right fertiliser form: pellets, granular or liquid

    Once you've chosen your fertiliser, it's time to think about how to apply it: liquid, or pellets and granules. Liquid fertilisers are quick to absorb, while pellets and granules break down slowly over time. The choice depends on your gardening preferences. If you prefer a more hands-off approach, go for pellets or granules. They provide a continuous nutrient supply over time, making them suitable for long-term lawn care and larger areas.

    Alternatively, liquid fertilisers offer a quick nutrient boost and are easily absorbed, making them ideal for spot treatments or immediate results. They do need more regular application, however. 

    Additionally, ‘weed and feed fertilisers’ effectively eliminate weeds while nourishing the lawn, offering a convenient solution for maintaining a vibrant and healthy lawn.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Remember to water your lawn before applying liquid feed for optimal absorption.
    Masterful feeding: Precision choices for optimal lawn growth and health
  5. 5

    Fertilise at the right time of year for your lawn type

    Timing is crucial when it comes to fertilising. For warm-season grasses like buffalo, couch, zoysia, and kikuyu, the best time to fertilise is during their active growing season, usually from spring to early autumn. For cold-season grasses such as fescue, rye, or Kentucky bluegrass, the ideal time for fertilisation is during their active growth period in autumn and spring.
    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Remember not to spread fertilisers on hot days for better results.
    Perfect timing: Mastering lawn fertilisation schedules
  6. 6

    Are you struggling with weeds in your lawn?

    Check out our guide on how to weed your lawn.

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.