St. Augustine grass is a warm-season grass commonly found in tropical and subtropical areas, suitable for playgrounds, gardens, and coastal regions. Its flat, broad, bright green blades create a lush, carpet-like turf that is aesthetically pleasing and relaxing.

St. Augustine grass needs nutrition and expands when potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen are supplied regularly. The right fertilizer is needed for the grass to receive these essential nutrients, stay healthy, and appear lush and green. The proper nutrients help the grass grow with a strong root system.

Growcycle is the top-rated place to get the best fertilizer for St. Augustine Grass. These fertilizers provide the essential nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, to keep the grass healthy and lush green.

Key Features of St. Augustine Grass

St. Augustine grass is popular for residential and commercial lawns in warm, coastal, and sunny regions because of the following features:

  • Growth Habit and Appearance: It spreads through its stem, forming a thick, dense turf that helps suppress weeds and quickly covers the ground. The grass looks lush and vibrant green due to its coarse-textured, broad, flat blades, which usually range in width from a quarter to a half inch.
  • Best Climate: It is a warm-season grass that grows actively during summer. It thrives and performs best in warm, humid climates. It provides a comfortable feel, ideal for children, pets, and outdoor activities.
  • Shade and Drought Tolerance: It is among the warm-season grasses that tolerate more shade. It thrives in full sun but can survive in partial shade or filtered sunlight. When water is given carefully, it can tolerate short dry spells, but unlike other grasses, it cannot survive drought.
  • Soil Adaptability: This grass can grow in various soil types, but it likes sandy, loamy, or well-drained soils. Due to its mild tolerance of salt, it is perfect for coastal regions.
  • Maintenance Needs: St. Augustine grass needs regular irrigation, fertilization, and mowing to stay healthy and vibrant.
  • Pest and Disease Resistance: St. Augustine grass can be affected by diseases such as gray leaf spots and pests like chinch bugs. Therefore, it must be maintained to avoid these diseases.

Why St. Augustine Grass Needs Fertilizers?

St. Augustine grass requires special fertilizers due to its unique nutrient needs and growth characteristics. Here is why it needs fertilizers:

High Nitrogen Requirement

This grass thrives on nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as nitrogen is essential for maintaining its lush, deep green color and dense growth. Without sufficient nitrogen, the grass can turn pale or yellowish and become weak, making it more susceptible to diseases and pests.

Nutrient Deficiencies

This grass type is sensitive to iron, potassium, and phosphorus deficiencies, which can lead to problems such as weak root systems, poor stress tolerance, and leaf yellowing. Fertilizers designed for St. Augustine grass frequently contain these micronutrients in the correct balance.

Proper Growth Balance

Fast-release nitrogen can cause unnecessary thatch buildup, a thick layer of organic matter that can suffocate grass and spread fungal diseases. Slow-release or specially mixed fertilizers help deliver nutrients gradually, reducing thatch problems and ensuring consistent growth.

Soil pH Sensitivity

St. Augustine grass’s ideal soil pH range is 6.0 to 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral. If the soil is too alkaline, it can lead to iron deficiency and yellowing. Iron and other pH-balancing components are included in some specific fertilizers to avoid this problem.

Resilience Against Pests & Diseases

Proper fertilization strengthens St. Augustine grass, increasing its resistance to common challenges such as drought stress, microbial infections, and chinch bugs. Special fertilizers often include the right nutrient blend to enhance the grass’s natural responses.

Recommended Fertilizers for St. Augustine Grass

Fertilizer products are recommended for St. Augustine grass based on its nutrient needs and growth conditions. Here are some commonly used fertilizers for this grass:

1. Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food

This fertilizer has an NPK ratio of 32-0-10. Its high nitrogen content increases lush green growth. It is designed for Southern lawns, including St. Augustine grass. It also contains potassium to help the lawn survive stress and drought.

2. Pennington UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer

The NPK Ratio for this fertilizer product is 30-0-4. It can be beneficial due to the fast-acting nitrogen it contains, which rapidly promotes green color. For long-term nourishment, it also contains slow-release nitrogen. This product is excellent for maintaining a healthy, lush lawn.

3. The Andersons PGF Complete Fertilizer

The ratio of its NPK is 16-4-8. Its uniform distribution throughout the lawn is ensured by its fine particle size. Humic acid is added to improve the soil’s ability to uptake nutrients. For St. Augustine grass, it works well at every stage of growth.

4. GreenView Fairway Formula Fertilizer

It contains NPK in the ratio 29-0-10. It is recommended because it has high nitrogen content for vibrant green growth. Potassium helps the lawn handle environmental stress. It covers large areas, making it a cost-effective option.

5. Milorganite Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer

The NPK Ratio for this fertilizer product is 6-4-0. With its slow-release iron and nitrogen, this organic option promotes greenery without causing overgrowth. It also increases soil health and is non-toxic to the environment.

6. Safer Brand Lawn Restore Fertilizer

It contains NPK in the ratio 10-0-6. This fertilizer is made of organic materials that are safe for children and pets. It increases drought resistance and has deep roots, which can supply nourishment for up to eight weeks.

7. Lesco St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer

It has a 16-4-8 NPK ratio. This product is made specifically for St. Augustine grass. It includes phosphorus in a well-balanced nutrient mix for root development. The formula’s gradual release ensures consistent nutrition.

8. Dr. Earth Super Natural Lawn Fertilizer

It is 100% organic, free from synthetic chemicals, and contains essential nutrients, including iron and potassium. It is safe for children, pets, and pollinators.

FAQs

What makes St. Augustine grass a good choice for lawns?

St. Augustine grass is popular for its thick, lush growth, excellent shade tolerance, and ability to thrive in warm, humid climates. It provides a dense carpet-like appearance and is commonly used in residential and coastal areas.

Can St. Augustine Grass tolerate cold weather?

St. Augustine grass has a low cold tolerance and becomes dormant in winter. It turns brown after the first frost, but turns green again in spring when the temperature rises.

Is St. Augustine grass suitable for high-traffic areas?

It has moderate wear resistance but does not recover quickly from heavy foot traffic.

The Bottom Line

Gardeners can keep their St. Augustine grass healthy year-round by selecting the right fertilizer and applying it as needed. This is a resilient, attractive, and practical choice for homeowners looking for a beautiful and functional lawn. Visit Growcycle to learn more about different fertilizer options for St. Augustine grass.