Finding Low-Nitrogen Fertilizer for Palmetto St. Augustine Grass

The Challenge

Palmetto St. Augustine prefers modest nitrogen (target ~2–3 lbs N/1,000 sq ft/year). An 8-3-20 ratio is ideal but rarely stocked at big-box stores.

Practical Substitutes

• 10-10-10: Widely available at hardware stores, feed stores, garden centers (often in the tree/shrub section, not lawn aisle). Apply at 6–8 lbs/1,000 sq ft per application.
• 5-10-10 or 5-10-5: Lower nitrogen, higher phosphorus/potassium—good for centipede and St. Augustine.
• Slow-release 12-4-8 or 16-4-8: Many "southern lawn" blends fit this profile.

Application Tips

• Apply in late spring (after full green-up) and early fall.
• Water in with ½–1 inch immediately.
• Avoid summer applications >0.5 lb N/1,000 sq ft to reduce disease risk.

Check local independent nurseries or farm co-ops—they often carry specialty ratios the chains don't.