Bermuda and St. Augustine are the two most popular warm-season grasses in Florida and Georgia — but they have very different nutritional needs. Using the wrong fertilization approach can lead to poor color, thin growth, or even lawn damage. Here's how to feed each one the right way.

Bermuda Grass Fertilization Bermuda is a high-maintenance, high-reward turf. It thrives on nitrogen and needs frequent feeding during the growing season (April through September). Apply a complete fertilizer (like 16-4-8) every 4-6 weeks during active growth. Bermuda can handle 4-5 lbs of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft per year. Iron supplements help deepen color without excessive top growth. Mow frequently at 1-2 inches to keep it dense and carpet-like.

St. Augustine Grass Fertilization St. Augustine is more shade-tolerant and lower-maintenance, but it's also more sensitive to over-fertilization. Apply fertilizer 2-4 times per year — once in spring (March-April), summer (June), and optionally in early fall (September). Use a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer (like 15-0-15) at 1 lb of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft per application. St. Augustine needs only 2-4 lbs of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft per year. Too much nitrogen invites chinch bugs and brown patch fungus.

Key Differences at a Glance Bermuda wants more nitrogen, more often. St. Augustine wants less nitrogen, applied less frequently. Both benefit from potassium for root strength and stress tolerance — especially important in Florida's sandy soils. Always soil test before your first application of the year to know exactly what your lawn needs.

Timing Matters Never fertilize either grass when it's dormant (winter months). The first application should come when the grass is actively growing and nighttime temperatures stay above 60°F consistently. Late-season fertilization (after October) can make grass vulnerable to cold damage.