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What Type Of Fertilizer Should I Use For My Lawn?

Serving Ocala | St Augustine | Gainesville | Palm Valley

In general, Jacksonville FL lawns benefit from a fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content and lower phosphorus content. A ratio like 15-0-15 or 16-0-8 is often recommended for most Jacksonville FL grass types. But overall, the type of fertilizer you should use for your Jacksonville FL lawn depends on several factors, including your grass type, soil composition, and the time of year. 

Using the wrong fertilizer can lead to your lawn not getting the nutrients it needs, resulting in poor growth and appearance. It’s best to carefully choose the right fertilizer and consult with local lawn care professionals who understand the specific needs of Jacksonville FL lawns.

Fertilizer bucket sitting on a lawn, filled with lawn fertilizer

Types of Fertilizer

When it comes to fertilizing your Jacksonville FL lawn, there are several options to choose from. Each type of fertilizer has its own benefits and is suited for different grass types and situations:

  • Slow-release nitrogen fertilizers: Ideal for most Jacksonville FL lawns, providing steady nutrition over time.
  • Quick-release nitrogen fertilizers: Best for rapid greening and growth, but require more frequent application.
  • Organic fertilizers: Great for improving soil health and beneficial for St. Augustine grass.
  • Iron supplements: Perfect for enhancing green color without promoting excessive growth.
  • Palm tree fertilizers: Specifically formulated for palm trees, with higher potassium content.
  • Micronutrient blends: Useful for addressing specific deficiencies in Jacksonville FL’s sandy soils.

Should I Consider DIY Lawn Fertilizer?

There are plenty of options out there if you search for homemade or DIY fertilizers on the internet. It may seem like a great option to save some money, but it’s best to leave it to the pros because creating the right blend for your specific lawn can be challenging. Without proper knowledge of soil chemistry and plant nutrition, you may end up with an ineffective or potentially harmful mixture.

How Often Should I Fertilize My Lawn?

You should fertilize your Jacksonville FL lawn about two to four times per year, depending on your grass type and local climate conditions. Warm-season grasses common in Jacksonville FL, such as St. Augustine and Bahia, typically require fertilization in late spring, summer, and early fall.

But overall, it’s important to find the right balance with fertilization. Over-fertilizing can lead to rapid growth that requires more frequent mowing and can make your lawn more susceptible to pests and diseases. Under-fertilizing, on the other hand, can result in a weak, patchy lawn that’s prone to weed invasion.

To get the right fertilizer for your lawn and a plan for year-round care, it’s best to reach out to your local lawn care experts.

Back to How To Take Care Of Your Lawn’s Soil