When To Fertilize Bermuda Grass In North Carolina

Knowing when to fertilize Bermuda grass in North Carolina is the single most important factor for a thick, green, and resilient lawn. Getting the timing right ensures your grass gets the nutrients it needs exactly when it can use them best, leading to optimal growth throughout the season.

Bermuda grass thrives in North Carolina’s warm climate, but its feeding schedule is tightly linked to soil temperature and growth cycles. Fertilizing too early or too late can waste product, harm the environment, and even damage your lawn. This guide will walk you through the simple, proven schedule for success.

This heading is your cornerstone. The ideal fertilization window for Bermuda grass in North Carolina spans from late spring through early fall, when the grass is actively growing. The exact start and end dates shift a bit each year and depend on your specific region within the state.

Understanding Bermuda Grass Growth Cycles

Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass. It wakes up from winter dormancy when soil temperatures consistently reach about 55°F. It hits its peak growth when soil temps are between 75°F and 90°F. Fertilizer should only be applied during this active green-up and growth period.

Spring Green-Up (Late April – May): Soil temperatures warm, and the grass begins to turn green. This is your signal to prepare for the first feeding.
Peak Summer (June – August): This is the period of most vigorous growth and highest nutrient demand.
Fall Slow-Down (September – Early October): Growth slows as soil cools. A final, appropriate feeding helps with winter preparation.
Winter Dormancy (Late Fall – Winter): The grass is brown and dormant. Do not fertilize during this time.

The Annual Fertilization Schedule

For optimal growth, plan on 3 to 4 applications per year. Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step schedule.

1. Late Spring Application (First Feeding)

Apply your first fertilizer when the lawn is fully green and has been mowed at least twice. In North Carolina, this is typically from mid-May to early June. Use a balanced, slow-release nitrogen fertilizer. This feeding kickstarts strong lateral growth for a thick turf.

2. Summer Applications (Main Feedings)

Follow up with 1-2 applications during the summer, spaced 6-8 weeks apart. June and late July or early August are common times. Continue with a slow-release formula to provide steady nutrition during the heat. This supports the grass’s recovery from foot traffic and summer stress.

3. Early Fall Application (Final Feeding)

This is a critical and often missed step. Fertilize about 4-6 weeks before your expected first frost. For most of NC, this falls in early to mid-September. Use a fertilizer that is lower in nitrogen but higher in potassium (the last number on the bag). Potassium strengthens roots and improves winter hardiness. Do not fertilize to late in the fall, as it can promote tender new growth that will be damaged by frost.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer

Not all lawn fertilizers are created equal. Reading the label is essential. The three numbers on the bag represent Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K).

Nitrogen (N): Promotes lush, green blade growth. Bermuda grass needs more nitrogen than other nutrients. Look for a significant first number.
Phosphorus (P): Supports strong root development. Most North Carolina soils have adequate phosphorus, so a lower middle number is often fine unless a soil test indicates a deficiency.
Potassium (K): Aids in overall plant health, drought tolerance, and cold resistance. Crucial for the fall application.

A good general-purpose ratio for Bermuda grass is something like 16-4-8 or 15-5-10. Always opt for a fertilizer where a good portion of the nitrogen is “slow-release” or “water-insoluble.” This feeds the grass gradually over time and is much safer for the enviroment.

The Non-Negotiable Step: Soil Testing

Guessing your soil’s needs is a waste of money and can harm your lawn. A soil test from the NC Department of Agriculture is inexpensive and provides exact recommendations for lime, phosphorus, and potassium. You only need to do this every 2-3 years. It’s the best investment you can make for optimal growth.

Best Practices for Applying Fertilizer

How you apply fertilizer is just as important as when and what you apply.

Calibrate Your Spreader: Whether using a broadcast or drop spreader, ensure it’s set correctly for the product to avoid streaks or missed spots.
Apply to Dry Grass: Fertilize when the grass blades are dry to prevent them from sticking and burning.
Water Thoroughly Afterward: Lightly water the lawn after application. This washes the granules off the blades and into the soil where they can start to work. About a quarter-inch of water is perfect.
Don’t Overlap Excessively: Overlap your spreader rows slightly to ensure even coverage, but avoid heavy overlaps that cause double dosing.

Regional Considerations in North Carolina

North Carolina has three main regions that affect your timing by a week or two.

Coastal Plain & Piedmont: Warmer soils mean an earlier start. First feeding can often be in early to mid-May. Fall feeding can be into late September.
Western Foothills & Mountains: Cooler temperatures delay the schedule. Aim for late May or even early June for the first feeding. The final fall application should be done by early September.

Always let the condition of your lawn, not just the calendar, be your final guide. If spring is unusually cold, wait. If fall stays warm, you might have a slightly later window.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Steering clear of these errors will set you up for success.

Fertilizing Too Early in Spring: This feeds winter weeds and can cause the grass to break dormancy too early, risking damage from a late frost.
Using High-Nitrogen Fertilizer in Fall: This promotes top growth at the wrong time and reduces winter hardiness.
Ignoring Soil pH: Bermuda grass prefers a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. If your soil is too acidic (common in NC), fertilizer won’t be effective. Lime application, as recommended by a soil test, corrects this.
Overfertilizing: More is not better. It leads to excessive growth, thatch buildup, increased disease risk, and pollution of waterways.

FAQ Section

Can I fertilize Bermuda grass in March or April in NC?

It is generally not recommended. Soil temperatures are to low for the grass to utilize the nutrients, and you’ll primarily be feeding weeds. Wait for full green-up.

What is the best fertilizer for Bermuda grass in North Carolina?

The “best” fertilizer is one that matches your soil test results. A balanced, slow-release formula with a ratio like 16-4-8 is a very good and widely available choice for many lawns in the state.

How late is too late to fertilize Bermuda grass?

You should complete your final fertilization at least 4 weeks before the average first frost date in your area. For most of NC, October 1st is a safe cutoff; any later risks winter injury.

Should I water before or after fertilizing?

Water after. Apply fertilizer to dry grass, then water it in lightly. This helps move the nutrients into the soil and prevents granuals from sitting on and burning the grass blades.

Can I use weed and feed products on my Bermuda lawn?

Use them with caution and only if you have a widespread weed problem. The timing for herbicide application (for specific weeds) often doesn’t align perfectly with the ideal fertilization timing. Spot-treating weeds and fertilizing separately usually gives better results.

Following this straightforward schedule for when to fertilize Bermuda grass in North Carolina will give your lawn the foundation it needs. Combine timely feeding with proper mowing, irrigation, and aeration, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving that dense, vibrant, and healthy turf you’re aiming for all season long.