If you want a thick, green, and resilient lawn, knowing when do you fertilize bermuda grass is the most important step. Getting the timing right makes all the difference between a good lawn and a great one. This guide will walk you through the exact schedule and methods for optimal growth.
Bermuda grass is a warm-season champion, but it needs the right fuel at the right times. Fertilizing at the wrong moment can waste your effort and even harm your grass. Let’s break down the perfect yearly plan.
When Do You Fertilize Bermuda Grass
Your fertilizing calendar revolves around soil temperature, not just the date on the calendar. Bermuda grass wakes up in spring and goes dormant in fall based on the warmth of the soil.
The Golden Rule: Soil Temperature is Your Guide
Forget the calendar alone. Your key signal is when soil temperatures consistently reach about 65°F. You can use a simple soil thermometer to check. This typically happens in late spring. This is when your bermuda grass roots become active and can actually use the nutrients you provide.
The Optimal Fertilization Schedule
Follow this general timeline for best results. Adjust slightly for your specific climate zone.
- Late Spring (First Application): Apply your first fertilizer when the grass is fully green and has been mowed at least twice. This is usually when soil temps are steadily above 65°F.
- Early Summer: 4-6 weeks after the first feeding.
- Mid-Summer: Another application 4-6 weeks later.
- Late Summer: A final feeding in early to mid-August is crucial.
You should not fertilize bermuda grass in fall as it prepares for dormancy. Late feeding promotes tender new growth that can be damaged by frost.
Why This Timing Works
Bermuda grass grows most vigorously in the heat of summer. Your fertilizing schedule supports this natural growth spurt. The late summer feeding helps the grass store energy in its roots and rhizomes for the winter. This leads to a quicker green-up the following spring.
A Note on Dormancy
Once your lawn turns brown in the fall, stop all fertilization. The grass is not growing and cannot absorb the nutrients. They will simply leach away or could pollute local waterways.
Choosing the Right Fertilizer
The numbers on the bag matter. For bermuda grass, look for a balanced or nitrogen-heavy blend.
- Nitrogen (N): The most important nutrient for green, leafy growth. Bermuda grass loves nitrogen.
- Phosphorus (P): Supports strong root development. A soil test can tell you if you need extra.
- Potassium (K): Promotes overall plant health, drought tolerance, and disease resistance.
A common and effective choice is a 3-1-2 ratio fertilizer, like a 16-4-8 or 21-7-14. Always get a soil test every few years. It’s the best way to know exactly what your soil lacks.
Step-by-Step Application for Optimal Growth
Doing it correctly ensures even coverage and prevents problems.
- Mow: Cut your grass to its normal height before applying.
- Calibrate: Set your spreader according to the fertilizer bag’s instructions. Using to much is a common mistake.
- Apply Dry: Ensure the grass blades are dry to prevent fertilizer from sticking to them and causing burn.
- Use a Pattern: Go over the lawn in two perpendicular passes (north-south, then east-west) for even coverage.
- Water Deeply: After application, water the lawn thoroughly. This washes the granules off the blades and into the soil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced gardeners can make these errors. Here’s what to watch out for.
- Fertilizing Too Early in Spring: This feeds winter weeds and can cause the grass to green up prematurely, risking frost damage.
- Fertilizing in Fall: As mentioned, this is a major no-no for warm-season grasses like bermuda.
- Using the Wrong Amount: More is not better. Over-fertilization leads to excessive growth, thatch buildup, and increased disease risk.
- Ignoring Soil pH: Bermuda grass prefers a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, the grass can’t absorb nutrients well, even if they’re present.
Special Considerations for New Lawns
If you’ve just planted bermuda grass sod or seed, the schedule is different.
- New Sod: Wait 3-4 weeks after laying sod before applying a starter fertilizer (high in phosphorus).
- New Seed: Apply a starter fertilizer at seeding. Follow up with a light nitrogen application once seedlings are established and you’ve mowed a few times.
After the first year, switch to the standard schedule for established lawns.
Watering and Mowing: The Supporting Cast
Fertilizer alone won’t create optimal growth. Proper watering and mowing are essential partners.
- Watering: Bermuda grass thrives with deep, infrequent watering. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Watering deeply encourages deep roots.
- Mowing: Keep your bermuda grass between 1 and 2 inches tall. Mow frequently enough so you never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. This keeps the lawn dense and healthy.
FAQ: Your Bermuda Grass Fertilization Questions
Can I fertilize bermuda grass in October?
Generally, no. In most regions, October is too late. The grass is slowing down and preparing for dormancy. A late feeding can do more harm then good.
What is the best month to start fertilizing bermuda?
Late spring, typically May or early June, depending on your local soil temperatures. Wait for that consistent 65°F soil temp and full green-up.
How many times a year should you fertilize bermuda grass?
For optimal growth, plan on 3 to 4 applications per year, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, starting in late spring and ending in late summer.
Is it okay to fertilize bermuda grass in the summer heat?
Yes, bermuda grass loves summer heat and grows fastest then. Just make sure to water it in thoroughly immediately after application to prevent burning. Avoid applying fertilizer during a drought if you cannot water it in.
Should I use slow-release or quick-release fertilizer?
Slow-release nitrogen is often a better choice. It feeds the grass gradually over time, providing more even growth and reducing the risk of nutrient runoff. It also means you can go slightly longer between applications.
Sticking to the right schedule for when do you fertilize bermuda grass sets the foundation for a beautiful lawn. By aligning your care with the grass’s natural cycle, you provide what it needs exactly when it needs it. Remember to test your soil, choose the right product, and always water properly after feeding. With this plan, your bermuda lawn will have the nutrients it needs for thick, green, and vigorous growth all season long.