What is one of the main purposes of fertilizing lawns in fall?

Fertilizing lawns in the fall primarily aims to promote root growth before winter. During this season, grass plants focus on developing their root systems in preparation for the cold months ahead. Applying fertilizers that are higher in potassium helps to strengthen the roots, making them more resilient against stressors such as frost and drought.

This late-season fertilization supports overall lawn health by ensuring that the roots have the necessary nutrients to continue growing slower during the colder months. This sets the stage for a quicker, healthier green-up in the spring when the grass resumes active growth. Adopting this practice can often lead to a more robust lawn that can fight off diseases, pests, and other environmental challenges.

Other options, while relevant to lawn care in their own way, do not specifically address the critical role of root development during the fall, which is essential for winter preparedness and subsequent spring recovery.