Summer Fertilizer Mistakes Most Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

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Fertilizing your lawn or garden during the summer can be incredibly effective—but it can also backfire if not done correctly. Each year, homeowners unintentionally stress or damage their plants by applying the wrong fertilizer, using the wrong timing, or skipping key precautions.

In this post, we’ll highlight the most common fertilizer mistakes people make during summer and offer expert-backed solutions. Whether you’re growing flowers, veggies, or turf, avoiding these errors will help you get the most out of your fertilizer investment—with help from trusted products at Supply Solutions LLC.

Mistake #1: Applying Too Much Fertilizer at Once

Over-application is the most common issue—and one of the most damaging. More fertilizer doesn’t mean faster growth. Instead, it can cause:

  • Salt buildup in the soil
  • Root burn or foliage scorch
  • Poor water absorption

Solution: Always follow label instructions and stick to the recommended pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft. For example, use 10-10-10 Liquid Fertilizer or 12-6-6 Ornamental Blend at diluted rates and apply more frequently instead of heavily.

Mistake #2: Fertilizing During Peak Heat

Midday temperatures can cause quick evaporation, reduce nutrient uptake, and scorch plants.

Solution: Fertilize early in the morning or after 6 PM. Use liquid options like Calcium Nitrate 15.5-0-0 for cooler application and quicker plant absorption.

Mistake #3: Fertilizing Dry Soil

Dry roots are especially vulnerable to burn. Applying fertilizer without prior watering can harm plant roots rather than nourish them.

Solution: Water thoroughly the day before you fertilize, and again lightly afterward to carry nutrients into the root zone.

Mistake #4: Ignoring Soil pH and Test Results

Fertilizer is only as good as the soil that receives it. If the pH is off, your plants may not absorb nutrients regardless of how much you apply.

Solution: Get a soil test before each growing season. Amend soil as needed with products like Ammonium Sulfate 21-0-0-24S to help adjust pH and boost nitrogen uptake.

Mistake #5: Using High-Nitrogen Fertilizer on Stressed Lawns

High-nitrogen fertilizers push blade growth when lawns may be in a semi-dormant state from heat or drought. This can lead to weak, shallow roots.

Solution: Choose balanced options like 10-10-10 or 12-6-6, and apply at half strength to maintain steady growth without shocking the turf.

Mistake #6: Fertilizing Right Before Rain or Irrigation Runoff

Applying fertilizer before a rainstorm or during heavy irrigation washes nutrients away before they can be absorbed—polluting local waterways and wasting your investment.

Solution: Watch the weather. Apply only when you know you can control water levels, or use controlled-release formulas that stay put.

Mistake #7: Not Considering Plant Growth Stage

Different plants have different fertilizer needs depending on their growth cycle. A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works.

Solution: Use 10-10-10 with Micronutrients for balanced overall feeding, and shift to Calcium Nitrate or 12-6-6 during fruiting or flowering stages to optimize outcomes.

Mistake #8: Forgetting to Mulch or Protect Root Zones

Exposed soil loses moisture and causes fertilizer volatilization. Without mulch, you lose nutrients to evaporation and erosion.

Solution: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around beds and shrubs to help retain moisture and improve nutrient efficiency.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these common fertilizer mistakes will save you time, money, and frustration—and ensure your summer landscape performs at its best. With expert support and proven products from Supply Solutions LLC, you can fertilize smarter, not harder.

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Let Supply Solutions LLC help you avoid summer fertilizer setbacks and get your yard growing beautifully again.

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