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Should I apply iron to my lawn? 

Maintaining a lush, green lawn is every homeowner's dream, and iron plays a crucial role in achieving that vibrant colour and strong, healthy grass. Whether you're trying to recover from drought stress or simply want to enhance your lawn’s overall appearance, applying iron could be the key to transforming your yard. But how does iron impact lawn health, and when is the best time to apply it?

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of iron for lawns, focusing on its ability to maintain colour, increase disease resistance, and strengthen your grass. 

Our team has also created a video that takes a closer look at Iron Guard Plus, a product designed to deliver these benefits directly to your lawn.

What does iron do for a lawn?

Iron is an essential nutrient for plants. It aids in the production of chlorophyll, the compound that gives grass its green colour. When your lawn lacks sufficient iron, it may begin to look pale or yellow—a condition known as chlorosis. Applying iron helps boost chlorophyll levels, returning your lawn to a rich, deep green.

But iron does more than just improve your lawn's appearance. It also strengthens grass blades and supports overall plant health. Stronger grass is less susceptible to diseases, environmental stresses like frost, and general wear and tear. By applying iron to your lawn, you are enhancing both its appearance and resilience.

The benefits of iron for lawn health

Let’s dive into the specific benefits that iron provides for your lawn:

1. How long does liquid iron take to work on the lawn?

If you’re looking to get your lawn green instantly, iron could be the answer. One of the most noticeable effects of applying iron to your lawn is its ability to keep grass looking lush and green. Iron encourages the production of chlorophyll, allowing the grass to absorb more sunlight for photosynthesis. This results in a deeper, healthier colour, even during periods of stress, such as temperature fluctuations or drought.

If your lawn is looking a little lacklustre or suffers from iron deficiency, an application of iron can quickly boost its appearance. But how long does liquid iron take to work on a lawn? In most cases, you'll see noticeable results within a few days to a week when the rust-coloured stains start to go away. However, it depends on the condition of your lawn and the type of product you use.

2. Strengthens grass

Beyond aesthetic benefits, iron is vital in strengthening the cellular structure of grass blades. A lawn with stronger grass is more capable of withstanding foot traffic, mowing, and environmental stresses, such as extreme heat or cold. Iron supplementation can help toughen your lawn, allowing it to recover faster after stress events like frost or heavy rain.

This is especially useful for lawns in regions that experience changing temperatures. Iron lawn supplements strengthen the grass so it can endure temperature extremes, giving your lawn the best chance to thrive throughout the year.

3. Helps resist disease

Healthier lawns are naturally more resistant to diseases, and iron plays a part in building up this immunity. While iron alone won’t prevent all diseases, it contributes to an overall healthier lawn that can fight off fungal infections and other common lawn problems.

A thick, healthy lawn leaves little room for weeds and disease-causing pathogens to take root. 

The more robust the grass, the better it can fend off threats, especially in climates that experience frequent rainfall or moisture build-up, which can lead to fungus or mildew issues. Spray iron onto your lawn evenly, and watch disease resistance and a few other benefits take form. 

4. Limits the impact of frost

If your lawn suffers from frost damage, iron can help limit the extent of the damage. By strengthening the grass, iron makes it more tolerant of temperature extremes, including frost. While iron won’t stop frost from occurring, it can mitigate the negative effects, helping your lawn recover faster when the temperatures warm up again.

When to apply iron to your lawn

The best time to apply iron is when your lawn is showing signs of stress or nutrient deficiency. Lawn stress can come from several sources, including drought, foot traffic, or extreme temperatures. Iron is also particularly effective during the cooler months when grass growth slows, but the need for nutrients like iron remains strong.

If you notice your lawn's colour looking pale, patchy, or weak, that’s a good indicator it could benefit from an iron boost.

How to apply iron to lawn

Iron can be applied in both liquid and granular forms, but liquid iron is often more effective for quick results. You can apply liquid iron using a sprayer, ensuring even coverage across your lawn. The liquid form is absorbed quickly by the grass, and within a few days, you’ll start seeing improvements in colour and overall health.

Granular iron, on the other hand, takes longer to work but provides more sustained results over time. Both methods can be effective, depending on your lawn’s needs.

How often can I use iron sulphate on my lawn?

Iron sulphate is one of the most common forms of iron used in lawn care. The frequency of application depends on the product and the specific needs of your lawn. Generally, iron sulphate can be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. However, always follow the product’s instructions to avoid over-application, which could lead to iron toxicity or even burn your lawn.

Is iron good for lawns?

While it can help, over-application of iron can burn your lawn, causing patches of discolouration or even damage to the grass. This is why it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and avoid heavy doses of iron at once. Start with a lower concentration and see how your lawn responds before reapplying. Things to look out for include whether it has made your lawn greener and whether it can absorb nutrients properly. 

Iron Guard Plus: a great solution for your lawn

One product that can make applying iron even easier is Iron Guard Plus. This lawn treatment is specially formulated to provide the iron your lawn needs and is a must-have in any specialised lawn care program. What sets Iron Guard Plus apart is its liquid form, which allows it to be absorbed quickly by the grass, delivering visible results in just a few days.

Iron Guard Plus is also designed to improve the resilience of your lawn, helping it withstand temperature fluctuations, disease, and even frost. Its fast-acting formula ensures that your lawn gets the nutrients it needs right when it needs them the most. Plus, it’s easy to apply with a sprayer, ensuring you get even coverage across your entire lawn.

How to apply iron sulphate to lawn

If you’re using iron sulphate, whether in granular or liquid form, here’s how to do it:

1. Test your soil: Before applying any nutrients, it’s essential to test your soil to determine its current iron levels.
2. Choose the right product: Depending on your lawn’s needs, choose between liquid or granular iron sulphate.
3. Apply evenly: Use a sprayer for liquid iron or a spreader for granular iron to ensure even coverage.
4. Water after application: If you’re using granular iron, water your lawn lightly after application to help the iron absorb into the soil.

Create a healthy and strong lawn with help from Lilydale 

Iron is a powerful tool for maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn. By applying iron, you can improve the colour, strength, and overall health of your grass, especially during periods of stress or temperature changes. Products like Iron Guard Plus make it easy to give your lawn the boost it needs, ensuring long-lasting beauty and resilience.

So, should you apply iron to your lawn? Absolutely—especially if your lawn is showing signs of stress or you want to ensure it stays green and healthy throughout the year. Just remember to follow the product instructions carefully and avoid over-application to prevent any potential damage. For more lawn assistance, take a look at our lawn care shop, where you’ll find helpful supplements and tools to keep your turf in top condition.