St. Augustinegrass Fertilization: Warm-Season Schedule and Tips

St. Augustinegrass fertilization follows standard warm-season practices. Fertilizers supply nitrogen (urea, ammonium nitrate, urea formaldehyde, ammonium phosphate). Granular lasts up to 3 months; slow-release is better than quick-release.

When to Fertilize

• First application: Spring when grass is 50% green OR soil temperatures exceed 65°F. Check at georgiaweather.net.
• Subsequent applications: Every 6 weeks until mid-September.
• Do not fertilize after mid-September.

Application Technique

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

Fertilizer Selection & Rates

Grass can't read ads! Similar numbers = similar performance. Compare by first number (nitrogen). Better brands have slow-release nitrogen.

How much? Follow bag or divide first number into 100 for lbs per 1,000 sq ft. Example: 30-3-9 → 3.3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft.

Common Questions

Q: Best fertilizer brand?
A: Any lawn-labeled product with similar numbers. Choose by price. For centipede use 15-0-15; for fescue, bermuda, zoysia – similar numbers work equally. Better brands include slow-release nitrogen.

Q: Can I apply lime with fertilizer?
A: Yes, if turf is dry. Particles fall to soil and activate with rain.