When most people think about lawn care, spring usually comes to mind first. But here in Calgary, fall is actually the most critical season for setting your lawn up for long-term success. At Prestige Outdoor Services, we’ve seen firsthand how a well-timed fall fertilizer application can make all the difference—helping your lawn weather the winter and come back stronger, greener, and healthier in the spring.
If you’re aiming for a lush, resilient lawn year after year, fall fertilizing isn’t something to skip.
Why Fertilize in the Fall?
As summer winds down, your lawn begins shifting its energy underground. While grass growth on the surface starts to slow, root development is still in full swing. A fall fertilizer application gives your lawn exactly what it needs during this important transition period.
Here’s what fall fertilizing does for your lawn:
-
Strengthens root systems
A nutrient-rich fall feeding supports deep root growth, which helps your lawn absorb water and nutrients more efficiently come spring.
-
Improves winter hardiness
Calgary winters can be harsh. Fertilizing in the fall boosts your lawn’s ability to withstand cold, drought, and disease.
-
Promotes early spring green-up
Lawns that receive fall fertilizer tend to green up faster once the snow melts, because the nutrients are already in place and ready to be used.
-
Fills in thinning or damaged areas
After a long, dry summer or any heavy foot traffic, fall fertilizer gives grass the boost it needs to repair and thicken before winter sets in.
What’s in Fall Fertilizer—and Why It Matters
Not all fertilizers are created equal, and timing matters. Fall fertilizers are typically lower in nitrogen than spring blends and higher in phosphorus and potassium, which support root strength and disease resistance rather than top growth.
At Prestige Outdoor Services, we use a professional-grade blend specifically designed for Alberta’s fall conditions. Our product feeds the lawn slowly and steadily, helping it store energy and nutrients for the winter months ahead.
When Should You Apply Fall Fertilizer in Calgary?
The ideal window for fall fertilizing is early to mid-September through mid-October, depending on the weather. The goal is to apply fertilizer while the grass is still actively growing, but before the ground freezes.
We carefully monitor weather conditions to ensure proper timing for each application. If you’re unsure when to fertilize, our team is happy to assess your lawn and recommend the best approach.
Fertilizing is Part of a Bigger Picture
Fall fertilizer works best when it’s part of a complete fall lawn care plan. To get the most out of your application, we recommend pairing it with:
- Fall aeration to break up compacted soil and improve nutrient absorption.
- Leaf removal and debris clean-up to prevent mould and fungal growth.
- Final mow and edge trimming for a tidy, healthy appearance going into winter.
Our fall services are designed to take care of all these steps—so you don’t have to.
Let Us Help You Build a Healthier Lawn This Fall
A well-fed lawn is a resilient lawn, and fall is the perfect time to invest in its future. Whether you’ve had a challenging summer or want to give your yard a strong start next spring, Prestige Outdoor Services is here to help.
We offer professional fall fertilizer applications throughout Calgary and the surrounding areas, along with full-service fall clean-ups, irrigation winterizations, and more.
