Fertilizing for Fall: The Secret to a Green Lawn Next Spring

Most homeowners focus on spring when it comes to fertilizing their lawns — but if you want a truly green, healthy lawn next year, the real secret lies in late-season feeding. Applying the right fertilizer in early to mid-fall helps Ontario lawns recover from summer stress, build strong roots, and store nutrients for winter.

In this guide, we’ll explain why fall fertilization matters, the best fertilizer for grass in fall, and how to time it for maximum results.

🍂 Why Fertilizing in Fall Is So Important

By the end of summer, your lawn has endured:

• Heat stress
• Foot traffic from outdoor activities
• Possible drought or watering restrictions

Fall is when cool-season grasses (common in Ontario, like Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue) shift energy into root development rather than top growth. Feeding your lawn now means:

✔️ Stronger root systems
✔️ Improved nutrient storage for winter
✔️ Faster green-up in early spring
✔️ Better resistance to disease and weeds

👉 Skipping fall fertilizer = a lawn that struggles next spring.

🌱 Best Fertilizer for Grass in Fall

Not all fertilizers are created equal — especially for late-season use.

Look for a fertilizer with:

• Higher potassium (K): Boosts cold tolerance and disease resistance
• Moderate nitrogen (N): Encourages root growth without excessive top growth
• Balanced phosphorus (P): Supports seed and root development (especially if overseeding)

Example Formula:

10-0-20 or 12-4-8 (depending on your soil test results)

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid high-nitrogen “spring lawn fertilizers” in fall — they promote blade growth, not root strength.

📅 When to Apply Fall Fertilizer in Ontario

Timing is key. The best time to fertilize in Ontario is:

• Late August to early October for the first fall application
• 4–6 weeks later (before the ground freezes) for a second “winterizer” feeding

This ensures your lawn enters dormancy well-fed and wakes up strong in spring.

🔄 Pair Fertilizing with Other Fall Lawn Services

For maximum effectiveness, combine fertilization with:

• Aeration: Opens compacted soil and allows nutrients to penetrate roots
• Overseeding: Helps new seed establish with nutrient support
• Dethatching: Prevents thatch from blocking fertilizer absorption

👉 Learn more: Overseeding 101: How to Repair Summer Lawn Damage Before Fall

🏡 Professional Fall Fertilizer Services in Ontario

At Contract Link, we know exactly which blends work best for Ontario lawns. Our services include:

✔️ Soil testing for customized fertilizer recommendations
✔️ Seasonal fertilization plans (spring, summer, and fall)
✔️ Aeration and overseeding packages for complete lawn recovery
✔️ Eco-friendly, professional-grade products safe for pets and kids

👉 Book Your Fall Fertilizer Service Today

Give your lawn the nutrients it needs now — and you’ll be rewarded with a greener, thicker yard next spring. 🌱🍂