Herndon DPW Advises Residents of Proper Lawn Care

The Town of Herndon's Department of Public Works is advising homeowners who use fertilizer on their lawns to wait until fall to do so. 

According to the DPW, the best time to fertilize is in the fall when the roots of the plants are actively growing. Fertilizing in the spring should be limited to a light feeding after the initial growth of plants has subsided in May or early June. 

“Lime, on the other hand, should be applied in early spring if soil tests show it is necessary,” said Bob Boxer, director of Public Works in a press release. “Most lawn grasses grow best at a soil pH between six and seven. A soil test report will provide recommendations on how much lime to apply as well as how much fertilizer to apply in the fall. Too much fertilizer, or spillage on sidewalks and driveways, can cause stream pollution.”

All of Fairfax County's public libraries have soil testing kits available to residents. They can also be obtained from the Virginia Cooperative Extension office at the Government Center, in the Pennino building on the 10th floor. There is a small fee for soil analysis.