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How often should I fertilize?



Some turf grasses are more “hungry” than others.  For instance, Bermuda grass thrives on fertilizer and it can be applied up to three times during the growing season.  By contrast, Centipede grass prefers acidic soils with low fertility.  Centipede should be fertilized only once right after it greens up in April.  Also, you rarely, if ever, have to apply lime to a Centipede lawn.  For best results, follow the general feeding recommendations below:
 

Type of Turf Grass
When to Apply
Bermuda, Zoysia
Once in spring when grass is at least 50% green

Once in summer (6 to 8 weeks after first feeding)

Another application 6 weeks later
Centipede

One application only in the spring when grass is at least 50% green.
Fescue, Rye
Once in late February or early March

Again in mid to late April (no later than May 1)

Once in the fall around October 1

If seeding in the fall (around September 15 is best), use a starter fertilizer, then follow with lawn fertilizer 4 to 6 weeks later