For most homeowners, lawn care is one of those things that they’d rather out-source to a local company or some other professional service provider. This allows them to use their weekends and free time on more enjoyable activities than calibrating spreader machines and reading chemical labels.
But for DIY homeowners who want a more hands-on approach without synthetic products, there’s the Espoma Turf-Tone program! Every product in this line is organic, slow-release, and designed to build soil health instead of forcing fast growth.
Early Spring: Turf-Tone Weed Preventer
Recommended timing: Late March through mid-April
Specs: 9-0-0 analysis, 25 lbs covers up to 2,500 sq ft
Espoma Weed Preventer uses corn gluten meal to suppress new weed seeds before they sprout. It does not kill existing weeds. Apply it before soil temperatures are consistently above 55-60 degrees. In the Lehigh Valley, that historically happens around late April and early May, so be sure to apply well before then.
An optional second application 4-6 weeks later strengthens control in problem areas.
Shop in-person at Herbein’s or in our online store: Turf-Tone Weed Preventer
Late Spring: Turf-Tone All Season Lawn Food
Recommended timing: Mid-May through mid-June
Specs: 9-0-1 analysis, 28 lbs covers up to 5,000 sq ft
Once the lawn exits its winter dormancy, it needs steady nutrition. All Season Lawn Food provides slow-release nitrogen from natural materials that feed soil microbes and encourage deep root development.
This product avoids the surge-and-crash growth that is typical of synthetic fertilizers. It also supports stress tolerance heading into the hot, dry summer months.
Shop in-person at Herbein’s or online: Turf-Tone All Season Lawn Food
Early Fall: Turf-Tone Fall Winterizer
Recommended timing: Early September through mid-October
Specs: 8-0-5 analysis, 30 lbs 5,000 sq ft
Fall is the most important feeding period for cool-season lawns. Espoma’s Fall Winterizer builds carbohydrate reserves, supports root expansion, and helps grass recover from summer heat.
Its organic formula releases nutrients steadily as soil temperatures cool. This creates a stronger lawn going into winter and a faster green-up in spring.
Shop in-person at Herbein’s or in our online store: Turf-Tone Fall Winterizer
Any Time After Seeding: Turf-Tone Lawn Starter
Recommended timing: With any spring or fall seeding
Spec: 4-6-3 analysis, 30 lbs covers up to 3,000 sq ft
When planting a new lawn or repairing bare spots, use Lawn Starter to provide balanced nutrients to support germination and early root development. Unlike synthetic starter fertilizers, the organic formula avoids burning the tender young seedlings.
Use it at the time of seeding and again 4-6 weeks later if growth is slow.
Here’s a quick recap of the timeline above:
*Late March to mid-April: Weed Preventer
*Four to six weeks later: Optional second Weed Preventer application
*Mid-May to mid-June: All Season Lawn Food
*Early September to mid-October: Fall Winterizer
*Any seeding period (spring or fall): Lawn Starter
A lawn maintained with the Espoma Turf-Tone program remains fully organic, reducing synthetic chemical exposure while improving soil biology. With consistent timing and proper mowing and watering practices, Pennsylvania homeowners can maintain a durable lawn that reflects long-term health.
Not sure where to start or looking for some help with getting your lawn to its best health? Our expert lawn technicians at Lehigh Valley Lawn would be happy to help!
