Zoysiagrass Fertilization Schedule and Best Practices

Lawn fertilizers vary by manufacturer, but all supply nitrogen (from urea, ammonium nitrate, urea formaldehyde, ammonium phosphate) which rapidly-growing lawns need most. Granular products last longer (up to 3 months) than liquid forms. Slow-release fertilizers are generally better than quick-release types.

When to Fertilize Zoysiagrass

• First application: Spring when grass is 75–100% green OR soil temperatures exceed 65°F. Check local soil temps at Georgia Weather.
• Subsequent applications: Every 7 weeks until mid-September.
• Optional winterizer: May be applied in mid-September but no later.
• Do not fertilize after mid-September.

Application Tips

Use cyclone or drop spreaders, calibrated correctly. Apply half in one direction, half at right angles for even coverage and to prevent streaking.

How Much Fertilizer?

Read the bag for manufacturer recommendations. Alternatively, divide the first nutrient number into 100. The result is pounds of fertilizer per 1,000 sq ft. Example: 30-3-9 → 100 ÷ 30 = 3.3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft.

Choosing a Fertilizer Brand

Grass can't read labels! Similar nutrient numbers = similar performance. Compare value by the first number (nitrogen). Better brands contain some slow-release nitrogen.

Q: What is the best fertilizer for a lawn?
A: Any lawn-labeled fertilizer with similar numbers works. Choose based on price. For centipede, use 15-0-15. For fescue, bermuda, zoysia – similar numbers mean similar results. Look for slow-release nitrogen in better brands.