The Complete Guide to Using Core™ Fertilizers for Every Season

A healthy lawn isn’t built in a day—it’s built season by season. That’s why the Core™ fertilizers were designed to work together, giving your grass exactly what it needs at every stage of the year. Whether you’re kickstarting spring growth, maintaining strength through summer, or helping your lawn recover in the fall, Core™ 12-8-12 and Core™ 24-6-12 deliver the perfect balance of nutrients for consistent, reliable results.

Let’s break down how to use both products together for a lawn that stays green, thick, and strong all year long.

As soil temperatures warm and your lawn comes out of dormancy, it needs a quick burst of energy to green up and start growing again.
That’s where Core 12-8-12 shines.

With quick-release nitrogen, this formula delivers visible results fast—usually within one to two weeks with irrigation. The balanced 12-8-12 NPK ratio also supports early root activity, helping your grass build a strong foundation for the season ahead.

How to apply:

• Apply in the spring when daytime temperatures start to be consistently above 50°F.

• Water in thoroughly to activate the nutrients.

• Reapply every 4-6 through early summer.

Once summer arrives, your lawn benefits from a more controlled, extended feeding. Hot weather and stress can make grass more sensitive to overfeeding, which is why Core 24-6-12 is your go-to for this stage.

Its 4:1:2 nutrient ratio provides long-lasting nutrition that fuels steady growth without pushing excessive top growth. Plus, the addition of iron and micronutrients keeps your lawn deep green and healthy even under summer stress.

How to apply:

• Apply every 6-8 weeks during the summer.

• Water immediately after application for best results.

• Works great on all grass types, soil types, and regions.

As temperatures begin to drop, your lawn shifts its energy from growing blades to rebuilding roots. Reintroducing Core 12-8-12 in the fall helps your turf recover from summer stress and prepare for winter dormancy.

The quick-release nitrogen once again promotes a rich green color, while the balanced phosphorus and potassium levels reinforce root growth and resilience—setting the stage for a strong comeback next spring.

How to apply:

• Apply every 4 weeks, starting in early to mid-fall when temperatures cool.

• Water in well to carry nutrients into the root zone.

• Ideal for cool-season lawns or any turf recovering from heat or drought.

Together, Core 12-8-12 and Core 24-6-12 make lawn care simple. You don’t have to overthink nutrient ratios or timing—just follow the seasonal rhythm:

• Spring: Use Core 12-8-12 when temperatures are cool and your lawn is waking up for a fast green-up and early growth.
• Summer: Switch to Core 24-6-12 for sustained feeding as temperatures start to climb for steady feeding and stress tolerance.
• Fall: Bring back Core 12-8-12 to prepare your lawn for cooler temps and recovery.