Mastering lawn care: Maximizing growth with urea fertilizer

Urea is a commonly preferred fertilizer for lawn care because of its high nitrogen content, which is essential for plant growth. Proper application of urea can yield outstanding results, but it requires knowledge of a few fundamental principles.

Urea contains up to 46% nitrogen in amide form, making it one of the most effective nitrogen fertilizers available. Nitrogen is vital for the healthy growth of grass and influences its vibrant green colour and density. Urea helps the lawn become more resilient to adverse weather conditions, such as drought or strong sunlight.

Urea can be applied to the lawn in two ways: by dissolving it in water or by directly spreading the granules on the lawn's surface. Dissolving urea in water facilitates quicker absorption by plants, but it requires careful adjustment of the solution concentration to suit the lawn's needs. A more straightforward method is to spread urea on the lawn and then water it.

When using urea on the lawn, it's important to properly dose and time the application. Excessive fertilizer can cause leaf burns and weaken the grass. Avoid fertilizing on hot, sunny days or when the lawn is dry; it's best to fertilize on cooler days or in the evening when the grass is slightly moist.

Uneven distribution of fertilizer can also result in unsightly patches and uneven grass growth, so using a spreader that ensures even application is recommended.

It's not advisable to fertilize right before heavy rain, as rain can wash away the fertilizer, reducing its effectiveness. Additionally, remember the proper storage of urea; it is hygroscopic and can easily clump if not properly protected, making precise dosing challenging. Adhering to these guidelines will help maintain the lawn's optimal condition and prevent common fertilization mistakes.