New at Organic Gardening (and pretty much gardening)

16 years ago

Hi,

I have just converted to organic gardening. The good news is I really wasn't into gardening before now so I never really put anything down on my lawn. I have a new lawn, planted in late spring that is a mess due to when I planted it (no choice in the matter) and very organic-lite clay soil. I am in the process of pulling weeds. I put down Jonathan Green's organic fertilizer this week per a soil test I received stating that nitrogen was very low.

The area I am working on is about 1200 square feet and I am in upstate New York. I am planning on aerating this weekend and topdressing with compost and some top soil. I am planning on overseeding next weekend with a slit seeder. My question is about starter fertilizer. I have seen and read a lot about soy bean meal and alfalfa. I would like to incorporate it into my soil. Can I just lay it on top of the existing grass or does it have to be tilled in (right now I have no plans to till)? Is it too late to use it as a starter fertilizer.

I would appreciate any advice you have. I have been posting in the Lawn Care forum and I just found this forum. I probably will be here a lot.

Thanks in advance!

Jennifer

Comments (4)

skoot_cat
16 years ago
Since you just put down an organic fert I would broadcast 50lb. Alfalfa on top of the compost (no need to till) then water in daily for 3-4 days. This will help it to break down/decompose more rapidly.

Whats in the Organic Fert you bought/how much did you apply?
skoot_cat
16 years ago
You could also put some bone meal down, it high in phosphorus, Middle number
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jenniferemily
Original Author
16 years ago
I used Jonathan Green's organic fertilizer. It contains kelp, feather, bone and blood meals, amino acids, and humates.

I will look into where I can purchase Alfalfa.

Thanks!
skoot_cat
16 years ago
I would also put down some Bone Meal. Its a very safe fertilizer, especially when planting or potting very young or new plants. Its used as a long-lasting source of phosphorous as well as low levels of nitrogen, potassium and calcium. Excellent for bulb plantings. Also good for reducing transplant shock and promoting extensive and healthy root systems.