A greener, thicker lawn doesn't happen by accident. Lawn fertilization and weed control services give your grass the nutrients it needs while targeting invasive weeds that steal sunlight, water, and space. Use Landscape Atlas to browse nearby lawn care companies, compare services and pricing, and request quotes from providers that fit your yard and your budget.

At its core, lawn fertilization feeds your grass essential nutrients-primarily nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)-so it grows dense and resilient. Weed control targets unwanted plants like crabgrass, dandelion, clover, and nutsedge using prevention (pre-emergent products) and spot treatments (post-emergent products). Many companies bundle these into seasonal programs with multiple visits.

Most programs include:

• Soil testing to understand pH and nutrient levels
• Balanced, slow-release fertilizers timed to your grass type and region
• Pre-emergent applications to stop annual weeds from sprouting
• Post-emergent treatments to eliminate weeds that appear between visits
• Recommendations for mowing, watering, and aeration to support healthy growth

The goal is a thick, uniform turf that naturally crowds out weeds-because the best weed control is a healthy lawn.

Why this service matters for a healthy, resilient lawn

Healthy turf does more than look good. A well-fed lawn:

• Stays greener through heat and drought because roots run deeper
• Resists disease and insect stress
• Recovers faster from foot traffic and seasonal extremes
• Reduces erosion and filters stormwater before it reaches drains

Weeds compete for the same resources as your grass and can spread fast. Consistent fertilization and well-timed weed control keep the balance in your favor, so you spend less time fighting problems and more time enjoying your yard.

Find lawn fertilization & weed control companies near you

Landscape Atlas is a directory where you can discover local lawn care companies-from fertilization and weed control specialists to full-service lawn care teams. Browse profiles, see services, and contact companies directly for quotes. Providers in the directory manage their own licensing, insurance, and service quality; always verify credentials and references before hiring.

How to use the directory:

• Search your ZIP code or city to see nearby providers
• Filter by services (fertilization programs, weed control, aeration, overseeding, grub control)
• Compare company bios, service areas, and customer highlights
• Reach out to a few top choices for quotes and scheduling

Ready to compare local pros? It's quick and free.

What to expect: a typical service timeline

The specifics vary by region and grass type, but most homeowners can expect a structured, seasonal plan.

• Initial consultation: A quick yard walkthrough to note lawn size, grass type (cool-season vs. warm-season), current weed pressure, shade patterns, and problem areas. You'll get a recommended program and quote.
• First application (30-60 minutes for an average yard): Often combines a slow-release fertilizer with weed control. If conditions aren't right for certain products (e.g., heat waves), the technician will adjust.
• Follow-up visits: Programs commonly include 6-8 visits spaced 4-8 weeks apart from early spring through late fall. Pre-emergents are timed for spring and, in many regions, late summer/fall. Broadleaf spot treatments happen as needed.
• Visible results: Color and density usually improve within 1-3 weeks of fertilization. Weed control can take a few cycles, especially for stubborn perennials and grassy weeds.
• Ongoing adjustments: Your provider may recommend aeration, overseeding, soil pH correction (lime or sulfur), or grub prevention to address underlying issues.

Pro tip: Ask about re-entry times for pets and kids after each treatment. Many products are safe once dry; always follow the specific label guidance provided by your technician.

Typical costs and what affects them

Pricing depends on lawn size, regional labor rates, product choices (conventional, organic, or hybrid), and program length. These estimates reflect common U.S. ranges for an average suburban lawn.

• Per-application fertilization/weed control: $45-$90 for 5,000-10,000 sq. ft.
• Annual program (5-8 visits): $320-$850+
• Aeration: $80-$200 (core aeration; larger lots cost more)
• Overseeding: $120-$300 when bundled with aeration; premium seed adds cost
• Soil test: $20-$40 per sample
• Lime or soil amendment: $60-$180 depending on lawn size and product type
• Grub prevention or insect control: $75-$160 per application

Expect surcharges for:

• Hills, heavy slopes, or complex edging
• Fenced areas with limited access
• Severe weed infestations that require multiple follow-ups
• Organic-only programs, which can cost more due to product pricing

Money-saving tips:

• Ask about prepay discounts for full-season programs
• Bundle services (aeration + overseeding) during off-peak periods
• Compare "per visit" cost against what's included-touch-up calls can be a big value add

Key products and components used in treatments

Understanding what goes down on your lawn helps you compare quotes confidently.

• Fertilizers: Look for slow-release nitrogen to provide steady feeding and reduce surge growth. Ratios like 24-0-10 or 20-0-5 are common; your grass type and soil test dictate the best blend.
• Pre-emergent herbicides: Applied before weed seeds germinate (e.g., crabgrass in spring). Timing is crucial-too early or too late reduces effectiveness.
• Post-emergent herbicides: Target existing weeds; selective products hit broadleaf weeds without harming grass. Some troublemakers like nutsedge or bermudagrass require specialty treatments.
• Soil amendments: Lime raises pH in acidic soils; sulfur lowers pH in alkaline soils. Proper pH optimizes nutrient uptake, so your fertilizer works harder.
• Grub and insect control: Preventative treatments target larvae before they damage roots. Curative options exist but are less predictable.
• Organic and hybrid options: Organic fertilizers feed soil biology and can be part of a hybrid plan that uses targeted, minimal herbicides.

Ask your provider to list product types and safety info. If you prefer organic or pollinator-friendly approaches, discuss options up front.

How to choose the right lawn care provider

A little homework goes a long way. Consider the following:

• Licensing and insurance: Ask for proof of state pesticide applicator licensing (where required) and general liability insurance.
• Local expertise: Providers familiar with your region's soil, rainfall, and grass species can time applications more effectively.
• Program transparency: Clear, written scopes outlining number of visits, product types, and what's included between visits (e.g., free weed touch-ups).
• Guarantees: Some companies offer service calls at no charge between scheduled visits if weeds persist.
• Communication: Look for easy scheduling, text/email alerts before visits, and post-visit notes detailing what was applied and why.
• Credentials and training: Continuing education and certifications show commitment to safe, effective applications.
• Reviews and references: Read recent feedback and ask neighbors about results you can see.

Remember: Landscape Atlas lists providers but does not pre-screen or endorse them. Your due diligence is essential.

Smart ways to compare quotes

Make sure you're comparing apples to apples by lining up these details:

• Lawn size measured the same way (total treatable turf, not lot size)
• Number of visits and what's applied at each visit
• Whether pre-emergent is included in spring and late summer/fall
• Free service calls or weed touch-ups between visits
• Aeration/overseeding included or priced separately
• Grub prevention part of the plan or an add-on
• Product approach (conventional, organic, or hybrid)
• Re-entry guidance and pet/kid safety practices
• Payment options, prepay discounts, and cancellation terms

Create a quick side-by-side list and you'll spot real value versus low headline prices that skip essentials.

Questions to ask before you hire

Bring these up during your estimate call or yard walkthrough:

• What grass type do I have, and how will that influence timing and fertilizer ratios?
• Which weeds are my biggest issue, and what's the plan to control them?
• Do you perform a soil test before building the program?
• How many visits are included, and what happens if weeds return between visits?
• Are pre-emergent applications included? When will they be applied?
• Do you offer organic or hybrid programs?
• What are re-entry times for pets and kids after treatments?
• How do you adjust scheduling for rain, heat waves, or drought?
• Can I see product labels or safety data upon request?
• What's your policy for canceling or pausing service if I move or re-sod?

Prep tips before your first treatment

A little prep helps your visit go smoothly and improves results.

• Mow 1-2 days before service, but avoid scalping; keep clippings off hard surfaces
• Mark irrigation heads, invisible fences, and newly sodded areas
• Clear toys, hoses, and lawn furniture
• Water schedule: Follow your provider's instructions-some pre-emergents prefer dry grass at application, others need watering in afterward
• Keep gates unlocked and pets indoors
• Note problem areas with photos so you can track improvements over time

Signs you might need fertilization or weed control

If any of these sound familiar, it's time to talk to a pro:

• Patchy color, persistent yellowing, or poor growth despite watering
• Widespread broadleaf weeds (dandelion, plantain, chickweed) or grassy weeds (crabgrass, goosegrass)
• Thatch buildup and spongy feel underfoot
• Moss in shaded or compacted areas
• Bare spots that don't fill in each season
• Frequent pest damage (grubs, chinch bugs) or disease issues
• Soil pH outside the ideal range for your grass type

Safety and environmental best practices

Responsible lawn care protects your family, pets, and local waterways.

• Follow re-entry intervals and keep pets off the lawn until sprays are dry
• Ask about granular vs. liquid products and drift-reduction techniques
• Keep fertilizer off driveways and sidewalks-sweep granules back onto the lawn
• Water only as directed to activate products without causing runoff
• Consider buffer zones near storm drains or gardens, and use targeted spot treatments where possible
• Aerate compacted soil and mow high to reduce weed pressure naturally

The bottom line

A thick, healthy lawn depends on consistent nutrition and timely weed control, tailored to your grass type and climate. With Landscape Atlas, you can quickly find and contact local lawn fertilization and weed control companies, compare programs, and choose the fit that aligns with your goals and budget. Explore providers with confidence, ask smart questions, and enjoy a greener yard this season.

Frequently asked questions