In general, without a soil test recommendation, apply 1 pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn area (warm-season grasses) in late spring and midsummer. A fertilizer containing nitrogen with no phosphorous or potassium, such as 33-0-0, can be used.

The easy answer can come up short, however. Every yard is different; in fact, none are homogenous through its area (square footage). Also, what you plan to grow affects fertilizer choices. Do not spend money on fertilizer until you KNOW what is needed for what you plan to grow. Different fertilizers will be needed for the several areas of your yard/gardens. When you get your soil tested, the testing authority will want to know what you are growing and which soil sample came from that site. Plan ahead. If test results call for lime, it needs to be incorporated into the soil three to six months before planting time for maximum effectiveness.

Contact your local Cooperative Extension office for soil testing instructions and specific recommendations for your area, grass species, etc.