The Montana State University Extension Service recommends testing soil before fertilizing to determine the appropriate mix of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium needed to maintain a healthy lawn. Extension service experts say that variables such as soil composition and geographical location within the state can affect the amount of fertilizer needed for a lawn in Montana.

On the Other: Simple formulas can help

According to the Montana State University Extension Service, most lawns in Montana require approximately 2 to 4 lbs. of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn per year, usually divided into three feedings. The extension service recommends using a simple formula to find how much of a given fertilizer will provide the desired amount of nitrogen. Divide the number of pounds of nitrogen desired in the soil by the percentage of nitrogen in the fertilizer mix. The result is the pounds of fertilizer mix needed.

Bottom Line

Soil needs vary by composition and geographical location within the state, but a good rule of thumb is that lawns in Montana require a total of 2 to 4 lbs. of actual nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet of lawn per year.

Source:

Montana State University Extension Service: Successful Lawns