{"id":91238,"date":"2023-05-15T15:09:38","date_gmt":"2023-05-15T18:09:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/?p=91238"},"modified":"2024-12-09T01:31:49","modified_gmt":"2024-12-09T04:31:49","slug":"lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Lawn Fertilization Schedule and Tips for Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most homeowners know to plan lawn fertilization from April to September when Florida&#8217;s warm-season grasses are actively growing. But there is more to getting the lawn fertilization schedule in Florida right.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cover all the essential details in this article. Read about fertilizer bans, the unique Florida soil, the best fertilizer for the Sunshine State, and how to calculate and spread it correctly \u2013 plus other pro tips to keep in mind for a green, healthy lawn all year round in Florida.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-9fba38bf-a52d-4e6a-be67-ac3de8096750\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\"><strong>Fertilization tips in this article:<\/strong><\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#0-1-the-correct-lawn-fertilization-schedule-in-florida\" style=\"\">1. The Correct Lawn Fertilization Schedule in Florida<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#1-2-lawn-care-in-counties-with-fertilizer-ordinances\" style=\"\">2. Lawn Care in Counties with Fertilizer Ordinances<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#4-3-floridians-should-test-the-soil\" style=\"\">3. Floridians Should Test the Soil<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#5-4-the-best-fertilizer-for-florida-lawns\" style=\"\">4. The Best Fertilizer for Florida Lawns<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#6-5-how-much-nitrogen-does-your-grass-need\" style=\"\">5. How Much Nitrogen Does Your Grass Need?<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#7-6-calculate-the-fertilizer-amount-in-three-steps\" style=\"\">6. Calculate the Fertilizer Amount in Three Steps<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#8-7-prepare-your-florida-lawn-for-fertilization\" style=\"\">7. Prepare Your Florida Lawn for Fertilization<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#9-8-how-to-apply-fertilizer-like-a-pro-in-the-sunshine-state\" style=\"\">8. How to Apply Fertilizer Like a Pro in the Sunshine State<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#10-9-how-to-green-a-florida-lawn-in-the-summer\" style=\"\">9. How to Green a Florida Lawn in the Summer<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#11-10-reducing-fertilizer-needs\" style=\"\">10. Reducing Fertilizer Needs<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#12-11-choose-the-right-lawn-care-service\" style=\"\">11. Choose the Right Lawn Care Service<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-fertilization-schedule-florida\/#13-faq-about-lawn-fertilization-in-florida\" style=\"\">FAQ About Lawn Fertilization in Florida<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-1-the-correct-lawn-fertilization-schedule-in-florida\">1. The Correct Lawn Fertilization Schedule in Florida<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best time to apply fertilizer is during the growing season. This is when the grass needs and can absorb the nutrients most efficiently. During winter months, warm-season grasses go dormant in North and Central Florida and slow their growth in South Florida. Fertilizing during the winter compromises weed control, feeding winter weeds such as crabgrass instead of your grass. Learn more about proper winter lawn care with our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/winter-lawn-care-tips-florida\/\">winter lawn care tips for Florida<\/a>. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the best months to fertilize in Florida depending on your location:<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Region of Florida<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>First Fertilizer Application<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Last Fertilizer Application<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>North Florida and the Panhandle region<\/td><td>Mid-April<\/td><td>Mid to late September<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Central Florida<\/td><td>Early April<\/td><td>Early October<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>South Florida<\/td><td>All year round (better in early spring)<\/td><td>All year round (better until the end of November)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To avoid forced growing, wait two weeks after the grass greens up in the spring to apply the first round of fertilizer for the year.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro tips on your Florida fertilization schedule:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Wait 30-60 days after planting a new lawn before applying fertilizer. It gives the plants time to focus on root growth.<\/li>    <li>Don\u2019t fertilize when heavy rain is forecasted within 24 hours or while your area is under flood, storm, or hurricane warning. Heavy rainfall washes away the fertilizer into storm drains.&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-2-lawn-care-in-counties-with-fertilizer-ordinances\">2. Lawn Care in Counties with Fertilizer Ordinances<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many counties and cities across Florida ban the use of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers from June to September. These bans protect the local watershed from fertilizer leach during the wet season.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use the <a href=\"https:\/\/ffl.ifas.ufl.edu\/resources\/apps\/fertilizer-ordinances\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Florida Fertilizer Ordinances app<\/a> to check for fertilizer bans in your city and county. It was developed as part of the Florida-Friendly Landscape program by the University of Florida. Check out our article on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/what-is-florida-friendly-landscaping\/\">Florida-Friendly Landscaping<\/a> for more information.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-how-to-fertilize-with-a-ban-during-summer\">How to fertilize with a ban during summer<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Apply a slow-release product in late spring (end of May). It spreads low doses of nitrogen for 3 to 4 months.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fertilize again when the restricted period is over.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-nutrients-you-can-apply-during-summer-even-with-bans\">Nutrients you can apply during summer even with bans<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can use nitrogen and phosphorus-free summer fertilizer blends. They contain iron, manganese, potassium, lime, and other allowed nutrients.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Compost is also an option you can use year-round. It&#8217;s natural, eco-friendly, and excellent for soil health. Always test the soil before applying fertilizer or amendments to make sure these nutrients are needed.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-3-floridians-should-test-the-soil\">3. Floridians Should Test the Soil<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/soil-g67ddc50da_1920-1.jpg\" alt=\"soil in hand\" class=\"wp-image-65591\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/soil-g67ddc50da_1920-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/soil-g67ddc50da_1920-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/soil-g67ddc50da_1920-1-646x430.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/soil-g67ddc50da_1920-1-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/soil-g67ddc50da_1920-1-768x511.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/de\/photos\/boden-hand-bauernhof-garten-d%c3%bcnger-766281\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Testing the soil before you fertilize the lawn is the best way to apply fertilizer effectively and avoid excess.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sampling the soil is easy and takes a few minutes. As for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/ph-soil-test-lawn-grass\/\">soil test<\/a> itself, you have two options:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Buy a DIY kit online or in a local garden store. They return data in seconds.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Go for a more precise method. Take or send the soil sample to your local <a href=\"https:\/\/soilslab.ifas.ufl.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">UF\/IFAS Extension Office<\/a>. You\u2019ll receive a report with detailed recommendations on fertilizing your home lawn.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-4-the-best-fertilizer-for-florida-lawns\">4. The Best Fertilizer for Florida Lawns<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fertilizing-Lawn-1.jpg\" alt=\"feeding lawn with granular fertilizer for perfect green grass\" class=\"wp-image-87433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fertilizing-Lawn-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fertilizing-Lawn-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fertilizing-Lawn-1-646x430.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fertilizing-Lawn-1-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fertilizing-Lawn-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/feeding-lawn-granular-fertilizer-perfect-green-1793770075\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ronstik<\/a> \/ Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A fertilizer with <strong>slow-release nitrogen is the best choice for Florida lawns<\/strong>. It allows the grass to absorb the nutrients at its own pace, preventing:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Root burn<\/li>    <li>Excessive growth<\/li>    <li>Run-off and leaching<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s also required by law. The amount of slow-release nitrogen requested by local regulations varies by county:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>If you\u2019re doing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/basic-secrets-lawn-care-in-orlando\/\">lawn care in Orlando<\/a> or Miami, look for fertilizer with at least 65% slow-release nitrogen in the total amount of nitrogen.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>For <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/tampa-bay-lawn-care\/\">lawn maintenance in Tampa Bay<\/a> or Jacksonville, homeowners can use a 50% slow-release nitrogen product.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Soil is different in Florida compared to other states. It has enough phosphorus for plants to thrive but is deficient in potassium (and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/what-does-potassium-do-for-lawns\/\">potassium is crucial for lawns<\/a>). <strong>That is why you need fertilizers:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>With little to no phosphorus.<\/li>    <li>Containing an amount of potassium that is at least half of the nitrogen.<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But there are exceptions. Some soils can become deficient in phosphorus. <strong>Signs of phosphorus deficiency include:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Grass slows growth<\/li>    <li>Leaf blades turn dark green<\/li>    <li>New-grown leaves come out with a purple tint<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you suspect a deficiency, take a soil test to check phosphorus levels before treating it.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro tips on <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-choose-lawn-fertilizer\/\"><strong>how to choose a fertilizer<\/strong><\/a><strong> for Florida lawns:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Always buy fertilizers for turf use. Don&#8217;t replace them with products meant for flowers or veggies.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Avoid country-wide formulas. They typically have too much phosphorus and not enough potassium. Look for Florida-friendly products.<\/li>    <li>Avoid weed and feed products. They are rarely effective. Nitrogen fertilizer should be applied at least one month after pre-emergent herbicides for the best results.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-5-how-much-nitrogen-does-your-grass-need\">5. How Much Nitrogen Does Your Grass Need?<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although fertilizer has many other nutrients, nitrogen is the one we are always using to calculate quantities. Each <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/best-grass-types-florida\/\">type of grass in Florida<\/a> has different nitrogen needs depending on its growth rate:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/centipedegrass-lawn-maintenance-guide\/\">Centipedegrass<\/a> is <strong>the most low-maintenance warm-season grass, <\/strong>requiring only up to 3 pounds of nitrogen per year per 1000 sq. ft. of lawn.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/bermudagrass-guide\/\">Bermudagrass<\/a> is<strong> the most hungry grass<\/strong>, requiring up to 6 lbs. of nitrogen per year per 1000 sq. ft. of lawn (less if the Bermuda grows in partial shade).&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the annual nitrogen amounts per 1000 sq. ft. of lawn recommended by the <a href=\"https:\/\/edis.ifas.ufl.edu\/publication\/EP236\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">University of Florida<\/a> for the most common Florida turfgrasses.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Type of Grass<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Amount of Nitrogen Recommended for North Florida<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Amount of Nitrogen Recommended for Central Florida<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Amount of Nitrogen Recommended for South Florida<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bahiagrass<\/td><td>1 &#8211; 3 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>1 &#8211; 3 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>1 &#8211; 4 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Centipedegrass<\/td><td>0.4 &#8211; 2 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>0.4 &#8211; 3 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>0.4 &#8211; 3 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>St. Augustinegrass<\/td><td>2 &#8211; 4 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>2 &#8211; 5 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>4 &#8211; 6 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Zoysiagrass<\/td><td>2 &#8211; 3 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>2 &#8211; 4 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>2.5 &#8211; 4.5 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bermudagrass<\/td><td>3 &#8211; 5 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>4 &#8211; 6 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><td>5 &#8211; 7 lbs \/ 1000 sq. ft.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Excess nitrogen makes the grass vulnerable to fungal diseases such as the brown patch, Pythium blight, and leaf spot. It also compromises the plant\u2019s resistance to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/how-to-get-rid-of-florida-lawn-pests\/\">common Florida pests<\/a> like chinch bugs or mole crickets.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to Florida Regulation (5E-1.003), you\u2019re limited to applying a <strong>maximum of 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet per application.<\/strong> Split the annual amounts recommended for your type of grass into 2, 3, or more applications to follow this rule.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, if you decide to apply 3 lbs. per year per 1000 sq. ft. of Zoysiagrass in three sessions, you can spread:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>1 lb. of nitrogen in April<\/li>    <li>1 lb. of nitrogen in June or July<\/li>    <li>1 lb. of nitrogen in September or October<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-6-calculate-the-fertilizer-amount-in-three-steps\">6. Calculate the Fertilizer Amount in Three Steps<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now you know how much nitrogen you want to apply in one application for your type of grass. The next step is to figure out how many pounds of mixed fertilizer you will put in the spreader.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To calculate the precise amount, follow these steps:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Measure the area you need to fertilize<\/strong> (the surface of the lawn, without walkways or flower beds).&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><strong>Calculate how much nitrogen you need for the entire area.<\/strong> For example, if you apply 1 lb. per 1000 sq. ft., for a 2500 sq. ft. lawn, you&#8217;ll need 2.5 lb. of nitrogen.<\/li>    <li><strong>Read the product label to determine how much fertilizer you need to spread<\/strong>. For example, a 14 lbs. bag of an 8-2-10 fertilizer (8% nitrogen, 2% phosphorus, 10% potash) has 1.12 lbs. of nitrogen. You\u2019ll need to spread 31.25 lbs. of fertilizer (more than 2 bags) to ensure 2.5 lbs. of nitrogen.<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.orangecountyfl.net\/Environment\/FertilizeResponsibly\/ResidentialFertilizerCalculator.aspx#.ZEqTVnbP23A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">this fertilizer calculator<\/a> if you live in Orange County or another county that requests 65% slow-release nitrogen fertilizers.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro tips on calculating the amount of fertilizer:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Divide your lawn into sections (back, front, side yard) to simplify measurements.<\/li>    <li>Use an app to measure the lawn size faster. Some popular options are LawnChick\u2019s Lawn Size Calculator, Measure My Lawn, Google Maps, Planimeter, Global Syn-Turf, and My Lawn Size Calculator.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-7-prepare-your-florida-lawn-for-fertilization\">7. Prepare Your Florida Lawn for Fertilization<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"449\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_garden-ga772b33a8_1280.jpg\" alt=\"pitchfork in soil for aeration\" class=\"wp-image-43965\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_garden-ga772b33a8_1280.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_garden-ga772b33a8_1280-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_garden-ga772b33a8_1280-646x363.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_garden-ga772b33a8_1280-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_garden-ga772b33a8_1280-768x431.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/garden-fork-lawn-lawn-maintenance-1208987\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pixabay<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To get the nutrient uptake as close to 100% as possible, ensure the soil can adequately absorb the fertilizer. You do this by:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Clearing the lawn of leaves, twigs, and other debris<\/strong> covering the lawn<strong> <\/strong>(especially if you have large shade trees in your yard or nearby).<\/li>    <li><strong>Reducing compaction through soil aeration<\/strong>. Soil is compacted by foot traffic but also by heavy rain in Florida. Rain creates a crust that is \u00bd inches deep and lowers nutrient absorption.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><strong>Removing thatch that is thicker than \u00bc inch<\/strong>. Bermudagrass and St. Augustine are prone to thatch. Centipedegrass can also promote it if overfertilized.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-8-how-to-apply-fertilizer-like-a-pro-in-the-sunshine-state\">8. How to Apply Fertilizer Like a Pro in the Sunshine State<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To avoid root burn and ensure healthy growth, you must spread the fertilizer uniformly across the lawn. The easiest way is with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/reviews\/best-fertilizer-spreaders\/\">broadcast spreader<\/a>. Here are the main steps to follow when fertilizing:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Read the instructions on the fertilizer label and set the spreader accordingly.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Split the fertilizer amount in two.<\/li>    <li>Add one half into the hopper.<\/li>    <li>Run the spreader back and forth across the width of the lawn.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Turn the spreader off.<\/li>    <li>Add the other half of the fertilizer.<\/li>    <li>Turn the spreader on.<\/li>    <li>Switch directions and spread on the length of the lawn, perpendicular to the first application.<\/li>    <li>Turn the spreader off.<\/li>    <li>Clean the spreader on the grass to avoid getting fertilizer on the sidewalk or pavement.<\/li>    <li>Apply 1\/4 inch of water to clean the granular slow-release fertilizer from the grass blades and help it soak into the soil.&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro tips about fertilizing the lawn:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Use a deflector shield to keep fertilizer on the lawn and away from sideways and driveways.<\/li>    <li>Create a 15-foot no-fertilizer, no-pesticide buffer area between the lawn and a waterfront. Use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/native-plants-florida\/\">plants native to Florida<\/a> that thrive without extra feeding and can collect excess nutrients from the grass area to fill this buffer.<\/li>    <li>If you spill fertilizer on your lawn or driveway, sweep it up, don\u2019t rinse it.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-9-how-to-green-a-florida-lawn-in-the-summer\">9. How to Green a Florida Lawn in the Summer<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hand-Held-Granular-Fertilizer.jpg\" alt=\"a person fertilizing lawn with a spreader\" class=\"wp-image-87446\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hand-Held-Granular-Fertilizer.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hand-Held-Granular-Fertilizer-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hand-Held-Granular-Fertilizer-646x431.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hand-Held-Granular-Fertilizer-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hand-Held-Granular-Fertilizer-768x513.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/manual-fertilizing-lawn-back-yard-spring-106526951\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bochkarev Photography<\/a> \/ Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s the middle of the summer in the Sunshine State, and your St. Augustine or Bahia lawn turns a light green color. Most homeowners are tempted to fix this with a nitrogen spread, but there\u2019s a better choice.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You can get the deep dark green back by applying some iron<\/strong> without the excessive grass growth and the risk of run-off. A yellowing lawn can also be a sign of iron (or manganese) deficiency. For more information, check out &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/why-add-iron-fertilizer-to-lawn\/\">Why Add Iron Fertilizer to Your Lawn?<\/a>&#8220;<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-10-reducing-fertilizer-needs\">10. Reducing Fertilizer Needs<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your home lawn needs less fertilizer if it\u2019s healthy and correctly mowed and watered:&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Mowing is an essential factor<\/strong>. If you cut the grass too short, too often, it intensifies its growth rate to keep up and needs more nutrients and water to do so.<\/li>    <li><strong>Irrigation is also important.<\/strong> Too much water stimulates a shallow root system and excessive growth. Both factors also lead to higher fertilizer needs. Turn on the irrigation system only when the grass shows signs of drought and apply \u00bd to \u00be inches of water per irrigation event. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/florida\/lawn-watering-tips-florida\/\">lawn watering tips for Florida<\/a> for more advice on properly irrigating your lawn. <\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An excellent way to reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers is to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/mulch-grass-clippings-healthy-lawn\/\">leave the grass clippings on the lawn<\/a>. The average home generates about 400 pounds of grass clippings per year, providing a significant amount of slow-release nitrogen.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-11-choose-the-right-lawn-care-service\">11. Choose the Right Lawn Care Service<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What happens on your property is your responsibility. Make sure the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/landscaping\/lawn-treatment\">lawn care professionals<\/a> you\u2019re working with go by the book and follow the local fertilizing ordinances. They also need to be trained and licensed for fertilizer application. Going local is best since regulations vary from county to county and city to city.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13-faq-about-lawn-fertilization-in-florida\">FAQ About Lawn Fertilization in Florida<\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1683803068308\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What fertilizer is good for Florida grass?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Choose a \u201cTurf\u201d formula meant for the Florida climate, soil conditions, and fertilizer ordinances, with:<br\/><br\/><strong>\u2022<\/strong> 30% to 65% slow-release nitrogen.<br\/><strong>\u2022<\/strong> At least half as much potassium as nitrogen.<br\/><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Little to no phosphorus.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1683803117199\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do You Fertilize in the Fall in Florida?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, but not at the same time all across the state. It is best to make the last application in North Florida in September since grasses go dormant earlier. Central Florida lawn care can include fertilizer application until early October. In the south, you can fertilize until late November.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1683803148889\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What Fertilizers Are Banned in Florida?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer are banned in some Florida counties and cities during the wet season, from June to September.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1683803180343\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do Florida Lawns Need Phosphorus?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Generally, no. Most Florida soils are rich enough in phosphorus.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1683803226413\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How To Fertilize Like a Floridian?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Locals know how to keep the grass green during summer months without nitrogen. They do the following:<br\/><br\/><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Use iron.<br\/><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Test and treat for other deficits (manganese, magnesium).<br\/><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Balance an acidic pH with lime.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14-give-your-florida-lawn-the-best-fertilization-year-round\">Give Your Florida Lawn the Best Fertilization Year Round!<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Soil, weather, and rules make Florida unique when fertilizing turfgrasses. There are a lot of details to keep in mind. It is often easier to hire a professional for the entire fertilizing schedule.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/landscaping\/lawn-treatment\">lawn care company near you<\/a> and get a free quote through LawnStarter, whether you live in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/jacksonville-fl-lawn-care\">Jacksonville<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/miami-fl-lawn-care\">Miami<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/tampa-fl-lawn-care\">Tampa<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/orlando-fl-lawn-care\">Orlando<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/st-petersburg-fl-lawn-care\">St. Petersburg<\/a>, or anywhere in the Sunshine State.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/de\/photos\/haus-rasen-familie-architektur-3362676\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Most homeowners know to plan lawn fertilization from April to September when Florida&#8217;s warm-season grasses are actively growing. But there [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":140,"featured_media":91245,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[478],"tags":[9],"class_list":["post-91238","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-florida","tag-lawn-care"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/house-g483e74ba5_1280-1.jpg?wsr","author_info":{"display_name":"Sinziana Spiridon","author_link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/sinziana-spiridon\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The Best Lawn Fertilization Schedule and Tips for Florida<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Read our top tips for the best lawn fertilization schedule in the Sunshine State and 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