Lawn fertilization may seem simple, but timing, weather, and product choices make a big difference—especially in Florida’s unique climate. Whether you’re a DIYer or just want to understand what your lawn needs, here’s your essential guide to what to do—and what to avoid—when it comes to fertilizing your lawn.
✅ DO Fertilize When Your Grass Is Actively Growing
- For North Florida: Start fertilizing two weeks after new spring growth begins, typically in March.
- For South Florida: This may be as early as February.
- Watch for soil temps of 50°F or higher—cold soil means dormant turf, and fertilizing too early wastes product and pollutes runoff.
❌ DON’T Fertilize Before Heavy Rain
- Avoid applying fertilizer if moderate to heavy rain is expected within 24 hours.
It can wash away into storm drains, harming waterways and wasting money. - Do apply granular fertilizer if only light rain (¼ inch or less) is in the forecast—it can help activate the nutrients.
- Best practice? Fertilize shortly after a rain, when the soil is moist but the forecast is clear.
✅ DO Water Granular Fertilizer Into the Soil
- Granular fertilizer must be watered in to activate. Without moisture, nutrients won’t reach the roots.
- If the bag doesn’t specify otherwise, irrigate lightly after spreading—enough to moisten the top ½ inch of soil.
❌ DON’T Apply Fertilizer During Drought or Heat Stress
- Fertilizing during dry or hot periods increases the risk of fertilizer burn, where salts pull moisture from grass roots.
- If your lawn is stressed, focus on watering and hold off on fertilizing until growth resumes.
✅ DO Use Slow-Release Fertilizers with Low Phosphorus
- Choose a fertilizer with a slow-release nitrogen base for longer-lasting results and reduced risk of burn.
- Florida soils are usually rich in phosphorus—use a low- or no-phosphorus blend unless a soil test says otherwise.
❌ DON’T Skip Local Ordinance Checks
- Many Florida cities and counties have summer fertilizer bans to protect water quality.
- Use the Florida Fertilizer Ordinances web tool or contact your local Extension office to check restrictions before applying anything.
✅ DO Calculate Your Lawn Size and Follow Label Instructions
- Apply no more than 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per application.
- Measure your lawn or refer to your property survey to calculate how much product you need.
❌ DON’T Fertilize Newly Planted Sod Right Away
- Wait 30–60 days after planting to fertilize newly sodded lawns. Let roots establish before feeding.
✅ DO Consider Iron for Summer Green-Ups
- Want a lush green lawn in summer without rapid growth or added stress?
Try iron sulfate or chelated iron instead of nitrogen—available in easy-to-apply liquid or granular forms.
❌ DON’T Want the Hassle? Let Rockaway Inc. Handle It
Fertilization involves science, precision, and a lot of weekend time. If you'd rather spend your Saturdays enjoying your lawn instead of working on it, Rockaway Inc. is here to help.
We offer customized lawn care programs for:
- 🏡 Residential homes
- 🏘️ HOA communities
- 🏢 Commercial properties
With over 15 years of experience in Northeast Florida, our team knows the local soil, climate, and regulations. We apply the right fertilizer at the right time—so your lawn stays beautiful, healthy, and compliant with all local rules.