If you’re a Georgia homeowner with a zoysia lawn, knowing when to fertilize zoysia grass in Georgia is the key to its thick, green success. Getting the timing right makes all the difference in how your lawn looks and how well it handles our heat and humidity.
This guide gives you the simple, clear schedule you need. We’ll cover the best times to feed your grass from spring green-up to fall preparation, ensuring you get the most out of every application.
When to Fertilize Zoysia Grass in Georgia
Zoysia grass has a distinct growth cycle in Georgia’s climate. It thrives in warm weather and goes dormant (turns brown) after the first hard frost. You should only fertilize during its active green growth period.
The general rule is to fertilize after spring green-up and stop about 6-8 weeks before the expected first frost in your area. For most of Georgia, this creates a feeding window from late spring through early fall.
Understanding Zoysia’s Growth Cycle in Georgia
Zoysia is a warm-season grass. It starts growing when soil temperatures consistently reach about 65°F. This usually happens in late April or May in Georgia.
It grows strongest during the hot summer months. Then, as daylight shortens and temperatures drop in fall, it slows down and prepares for dormancy. Fertilizing at the wrong time, like too early in spring or too late in fall, can harm the grass.
Early feeding promotes weed invasion. Late feeding pushes tender growth that can be damaged by frost.
The Essential Spring Fertilization Timing
Patience is crucial in spring. Do not fertilize while the grass is still brown and dormant.
Wait until your lawn has fully greened up. This is typically from mid-May to early June across Georgia. A good signal is when you’ve needed to mow the lawn at least twice.
Applying fertilizer too early feeds winter weeds like chickweed and poa annua, and it can case the zoysia to break dormancy prematurely if a late cold snap arrives.
- Target Date: Late May to early June.
- Key Sign: Lawn is completely green and growing.
- Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release nitrogen fertilizer.
Summer Fertilization Schedule
Zoysia grass does the bulk of it’s growth in summer. One or two summer applications support this growth and help the lawn withstand stress from heat, drought, and foot traffic.
Space applications 6-8 weeks apart. A good schedule is an early summer feeding in late June or July, and a late summer feeding in early to mid-August.
Always water your lawn thoroughly after applying fertilizer. This prevents burn and moves nutrients into the soil.
- First Summer Feeding (Late June/July): This supports deep root growth and density.
- Second Summer Feeding (Mid-August): This maintains color and vigor as growth begins to slow.
The Critical Fall Fertilization
Your final fertilization is one of the most important. This fall feeding helps the grass store carbohydrates in its roots and rhizomes for the winter and promotes a quicker green-up next spring.
Time this application so the grass is still actively growing but has enough time to absorb the nutrients before shutting down. In North Georgia, aim for early September. In South Georgia, you can target late September.
A good rule is to fertilize at least 6 weeks before your area’s average first frost date. Do not use a high-nitrogen fertilizer here; opt for a product higher in potassium to boost winter hardiness.
What Type of Fertilizer Should You Use?
Choosing the right product is as important as timing. Look for a fertilizer formulated for warm-season grasses.
A slow-release nitrogen source is ideal. It feeds the grass gradually over several weeks, providing even growth and reducing the risk of burning. It also minimizes nutrient runoff.
The three numbers on the bag (N-P-K) represent Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). For zoysia, a ratio like 15-0-15 or 16-4-8 is often recommended, but a soil test will give you the best answer.
The Non-Negotiable Step: Soil Testing
Every lawn is unique. A soil test from the University of Georgia Extension service is the only way to know exactly what your soil needs.
It will tell you your soil’s pH and precise nutrient levels. Zoysia prefers a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. If the pH is off, nutrients become locked up and unavailable to the grass, no matter how much you fertilize.
The test report provides specific lime and fertilizer recommendations. It takes the guesswork out of your program.
Step-by-Step Fertilizer Application Guide
- Mow: Mow your lawn a day or two before applying fertilizer. Collect the clippings to ensure the granules reach the soil.
- Calibrate: Ensure your spreader is calibrated correctly. Applying too much can burn the lawn; too little is ineffective.
- Apply: Fill the spreader on a driveway or sidewalk to avoid spills. Apply evenly using a criss-cross pattern for uniform coverage.
- Water: Water the lawn deeply immediately after application to wash the fertilizer off the grass blades and into the soil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Fertilizing Too Early in Spring: This weakens the lawn and strengthens weeds.
- Using Weed & Feed at the Wrong Time: Most weed preventers in “weed & feed” products must be applied before weeds germinate, which is often before zoysia is active.
- Over-fertilizing: More is not better. It leads to thatch buildup, excessive growth, and environmental pollution.
- Ignoring Soil pH: If your soil is too acidic, fertilizer won’t work effectively. Apply lime as recommended by a soil test.
Seasonal Lawn Care Quick-Reference Table
| Season | Timing | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Late May – Early June | First Fertilization | After full green-up. Use balanced fertilizer. |
| Summer | Late June/July | Second Fertilization | Support growth and stress tolerance. |
| Late Summer | Mid-August | Third Fertilization | Maintain color and vigor. |
| Fall | Early to Late Sept | Final Fertilization | Use potassium-rich fertilizer. Stop 6+ weeks before frost. |
| Winter | Dec – Feb | No Fertilization | Grass is dormant. Do not apply any fertilizer. |
FAQ: Fertilizing Zoysia Grass in Georgia
Can I fertilize my zoysia lawn in March or April?
No, it is generally not recommended. The grass is still dormant or just beginning to wake up. Fertilizing this early promotes weed growth and can case frost damage to new tender shoots if a late cold snap occurs.
How many times a year should I fertilize zoysia grass?
For most Georgia lawns, 3 to 4 applications per year is sufficient. A common schedule is: one in late spring, one or two in summer, and a final application in early fall. Over-fertilizing leads to problems.
Is it okay to fertilize zoysia in the fall?
Yes, but timing is critical. The fall fertilization is important for root energy storage. Apply it in early to mid-fall, but always at least 6 weeks before the average first frost in your location to prevent new growth that winter will kill.
What is the best fertilizer for zoysia grass?
A complete, slow-release nitrogen fertilizer with a good amount of potassium is best. The exact blend should be based on a soil test. Look for formulations labeled for southern lawns or warm-season grasses.
Should I water before or after fertilizing?
Water deeply after fertilizing. This is essential to prevent fertilizer burn on the grass blades and to move the nutrients down to the root zone. Your lawn should be dry at the time of application so granules don’t stick to wet blades.
Adapting to Your Specific Georgia Region
Georgia’s climate varies from the mountains to the coast. Adjust your timing based on your local conditions.
North Georgia (Colder Zones): Spring green-up is later, and fall frost is earlier. Your window is shorter. Aim for June, July, and early September applications.
Middle & South Georgia (Warmer Zones): You have a longer growing season. You can start in late May and may be able to apply your fall feeding into late September.
Always observe your own lawn’s condition—it’s the best indicator. By following this schedule and paying attention to your grass’s needs, you’ll maintain a healthy, resilient zoysia lawn that enhances your home for years to come.