When Should You Fertilize Your Florida Lawn?
The best time to fertilize your lawn is when the grass is actively growing. In North and Central Florida, this growing season is from early spring, starting in April, until mid to late fall, and ending in November. Turf grass grows year-round in South Florida, so any time of the year is technically a growing season.
Fertilizing your lawn during dormant months or before heavy rain or storm is not recommended.
How To Know If Your Lawn Needs To Be Fertilized
There are several telltale signs that your lawn needs to be fertilized as a result of a nitrogen deficiency, which include:
- Yellow or yellow-green blades of grass
- Slow growth
- Thin patches
- Low grass density
- Grass patches in the shape of rings, with dead or light-colored grass in the middle
- Rust-colored marks on your grass
- And more!
If you see any of these signs, your lawn will benefit from a fertilization treatment. Aside from these visual cues, pH soil testing is the ideal way to tell if your lawn needs to be fertilized. Testing will determine how much nitrogen is present in your soil and how much fertilizer needs to be added for optimum health and a greener Florida lawn.
How Often Should You Fertilize Your Lawn?
A slow-release nitrogen granular fertilizer should be applied 2-3 times yearly. Florida lawns can be fertilized every 6-8 weeks during the growing season, varying depending on where you live.
What Time of Day is Best to Fertilize Your Lawn?
The time of day is an important consideration in your fertilization plan. It is recommended to fertilize in the morning before the day becomes too hot.
Professional Fertilization Application Services
If you are interested in professional lawn care services, including seasonal fertilization, look no further than Dean Service's organic lawn care program. Our team of experienced lawn care technicians provides year-round turf care, including a comprehensive lawn care plan that is tailored to the needs of your family and property.
There is more planning and consideration that goes into lawn fertilization in Flordia than appears on the surface. It’s essential to understand the many nuances that should be considered to create a healthy, lush Florida lawn.
How Long After Fertilizing My Lawn Can I Let My Dog Out?
It’s best to keep your dog off of your lawn for at least 24 hours after spreading your fertilizer. Waiting will allow the product to break down into the soil and prevent any adverse reactions for your pet.
Should You Fertilize Your Lawn Before or After Mowing?
Fertilize right after mowing your lawn so that the fertilizer has the most time to break down into the soil before you cut again. You should consider leaving the mulched grass clippings to break down into the soil and further improve the soil’s structure and resiliency.
Should You Water Your Lawn Before Adding Fertilizer?
The best time to water your lawn is right after spreading your fertilizer. Be sure your grass is dry when you spread your fertilizer to avoid damaging your lawn, but water right after spreading it to help break it down and allow it to seep into your soil where it needs to go.