| Choices
and Decisions Check
local conditions and needs for specifics, but in general here's what you
need:
Liquid or granular?
Pros use a combination of liquid and granular. Most of the rest of us
will be using granular and a spreader.
Starter Fertilizer:
use when overseeding or spot seeding; the best ratio is 6-20-20.
First application
in early spring: use a cool season type such as 21-4-7 or triple
15.
Ongoing applications
through out the playing season: use a balanced type such as 15-15-15 or
24-3-16. Some pros use 19-25-5 with extra ironite and sulfur as well.
End
of year as you shut down play till winter is over:
use 0-0-50 gypsum based product for healthy roots and good
drainage. Use 16 pounds on a high school size infield.
Sources
and Suppliers Suppliers
I've used and am satisfied with: Horizon, Sequoia Pacific Turf Supply.
Both are excellent and know what baseball fields in your area need.
Brands
I've used and am satisfied with: Best and Turfgro.
Tips & Hints
- Buy the 50 pound
bags. You get more for your money. For example, a bag might cost about
$14 versus going to the local home supplier and paying $25 for 20 pounds.
- It's better to
fertilize lightly and often instead of in heavy doses far apart. That
way the grass is stronger and holds up better.
- Water after fertilizing
or put it out just before it rains.
Mistakes to avoid
You need to water
after fertilizing. If you don't water or it doesn't rain, the grass will
burn from it.
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