Question: What type of fertilizer is best for my lawn?

Answer: If you’re asking about a specific brand, there are many good fertilizers on the market. The important thing is that it have the proper ratio of its nutrients, and that half of its nitrogen be in a slow-release form. For much of Texas, research has shown that our soils are already quite high in phosphorus, the middle number of the three-number analysis. Excessive phosphorus can actually cause problems of toxicity. That build-up is especially true for Texas’ clays, and that’s why you’ll often see soil tests suggesting that only nitrogen be added. Sandy loam soils will often need a 4-1-2 ratio high-nitrogen food such as 20-5-10 or 24-6-12. You should have your soil tested every two or three years to monitor the levels of all three elements.