Maintaining a healthy, lush lawn of St. Augustine grass requires proper fertilization. Choosing the right fertilizer ensures strong growth, deep green color, and resistance to pests and disease.

St. Augustine grass has unique nutrient needs compared to other warm-season grasses. Using fertilizers specifically formulated for this grass type improves root development and overall lawn health.

Fertilizer timing, nutrient balance, and slow-release formulas play a crucial role in maintaining a vibrant lawn throughout the year. Selecting high-quality products helps avoid over-fertilization, burn, or uneven growth.

In this guide, we explore the 10 best fertilizers for St. Augustine grass, highlighting nutrient composition, application benefits, and key features for homeowners and lawn enthusiasts. These options focus on promoting healthy, thick, and green lawns with minimal effort.

Top 10 Best Fertilizer for St. Augustine Grass

1. Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food

Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food provides balanced nutrients specifically designed for southern grasses like St. Augustine. Its formula contains nitrogen for lush green growth and potassium for strong roots. The slow-release technology feeds your lawn gradually to avoid burning.

Easy to apply with a broadcast spreader, it covers large areas efficiently. Users report visible improvement in lawn density and color within weeks. It strengthens grass against heat, drought, and common pests.

This product is ideal for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance fertilizer with consistent results. Its availability in granular form allows precision application. Many consider it the top choice for St. Augustine lawns.

2. Pennington UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer

Pennington UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer offers a 30-0-4 NPK ratio tailored for southern grasses. It promotes deep greening and encourages dense, weed-resistant turf. Its slow-release nitrogen supports long-term growth without frequent reapplication.

Application is simple with standard lawn spreaders. Users praise its quick greening effect and strong root support. The fertilizer also helps lawns recover from stress and minor pest damage.

It is a reliable choice for homeowners aiming for professional-looking, thick lawns. The formula balances performance with affordability. Consistent use ensures year-round healthy St. Augustine grass.

3. Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action

This fertilizer not only feeds your St. Augustine grass but also controls weeds and strengthens roots. Its triple-action formula helps maintain a dense, uniform lawn. The nitrogen and potassium mix encourages greener, healthier grass.

It works effectively during the growing season and is easy to apply. Users report noticeable reduction in weed growth after repeated use. The product is safe for regular application on southern lawns.

Homeowners appreciate its dual benefits of feeding and weed control. Its slow-release mechanism prevents over-fertilization. Triple Action remains a popular choice for busy lawn enthusiasts.

4. Lesco 32-0-10 St. Augustine Fertilizer

Lesco 32-0-10 is a professional-grade fertilizer with high nitrogen content for rapid greening. It is ideal for St. Augustine grass needing a boost during the growing season. The potassium helps build stress tolerance and strong root systems.

It comes in granular form suitable for spreaders. Users note thicker, denser lawns after application. Its high-quality formulation ensures even distribution without burning the turf.

This fertilizer is a favorite among landscapers for rapid results. It supports both color and durability. Ideal for homeowners seeking a lush, resilient lawn quickly.

5. Vigoro Southern Lawn Fertilizer

Vigoro Southern Lawn Fertilizer offers a 15-0-15 NPK ratio suited for St. Augustine grass. It delivers essential nutrients for uniform greening and strong roots. The slow-release formulation minimizes risk of burning the grass.

Application is straightforward and works with standard spreaders. Users report improved lawn thickness and vibrant color after a few weeks. Its formula strengthens turf against drought and heat stress.

It is a budget-friendly, effective choice for homeowners. Consistent use ensures a healthy, emerald-green lawn. Vigoro remains a widely recommended southern grass fertilizer.

6. Andersons Professional Southern Lawn Fertilizer

Andersons Professional fertilizer provides balanced nutrition to support deep greening of St. Augustine grass. Its controlled-release formula ensures steady growth without excess nitrogen spikes. Potassium content improves turf durability against stress.

Application is simple and precise with spreaders. Users highlight quick improvement in both color and lawn density. It encourages thick turf that resists weeds and pests.

This fertilizer is suitable for homeowners seeking professional results. Regular use ensures strong, healthy lawns. Its balanced approach reduces the risk of nutrient imbalance or turf burn.

7. Scotts Green Max Lawn Food

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food is designed for green, healthy St. Augustine lawns without high maintenance. The fertilizer feeds grass gradually to avoid scorch while enhancing color. Its NPK ratio promotes thick, even turf coverage.

It is easy to apply and works efficiently on large areas. Users note vibrant greening within 1-2 weeks. The formula helps grass recover from stress and minor damage.

Homeowners appreciate its combination of performance and convenience. Slow-release nutrients reduce the need for frequent reapplication. Green Max is reliable for consistent lawn health.

8. Milorganite Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer

Milorganite provides a natural, organic option for St. Augustine grass. Its slow-release nitrogen feeds gradually, reducing the risk of burning. The fertilizer also improves soil microbial activity and overall soil health.

Application is simple with granular spreaders. Users note thicker, greener grass with minimal odor. Organic composition makes it safe for pets and children.

This fertilizer is ideal for eco-conscious homeowners. Consistent use enhances soil and turf quality. Milorganite delivers steady, natural lawn greening over time.

9. Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food for St. Augustine

Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food is formulated for southern grasses, supporting St. Augustine health and density. Its nitrogen content provides rapid greening while potassium strengthens roots. Slow-release technology avoids fertilizer burn.

Users appreciate the deep, vibrant green color achieved after consistent use. Application is easy with broadcast spreaders. The fertilizer also helps lawns resist heat, drought, and common pests.

This product is a top choice for homeowners seeking reliable, fast results. Its consistent performance ensures thick, even coverage. Turf Builder remains a trusted brand for southern lawn care.

10. Lesco 24-2-11 Professional Fertilizer

Lesco 24-2-11 is a professional-grade lawn fertilizer with high nitrogen for fast greening of St. Augustine grass. It strengthens roots and improves turf resilience. Its formulation supports both color and thickness.

Application with spreaders ensures even coverage and precise nutrient delivery. Users report thicker, healthier lawns with regular use. It is ideal for lawns exposed to heat and heavy foot traffic.

This fertilizer is recommended for homeowners wanting rapid, professional-quality results. Consistent application yields dense, vibrant turf. Lesco 24-2-11 balances growth, durability, and overall lawn aesthetics.

Buyer’s Guide for St. Augustine Fertilizers

1. Nutrient Ratio (NPK): Look for fertilizers with higher nitrogen for greening, moderate potassium for root strength, and low phosphorus unless soil test shows deficiency.
2. Slow-Release Formulas: Provide gradual feeding to prevent burning and reduce application frequency.
3. Seasonal Timing: Fertilize during active growth periods in spring and summer for best results.
4. Application Method: Use broadcast spreaders for even coverage and follow label instructions for rate.
5. Soil Testing: Conduct soil tests to tailor fertilization and avoid nutrient imbalances.
6. Organic vs Synthetic: Choose based on environmental preference, pet safety, and maintenance goals.
7. Watering: Water after application to ensure nutrients reach roots and prevent leaf burn.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often should I fertilize St. Augustine grass?

Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Avoid application in dormant periods to prevent waste and burn. Adjust frequency based on product instructions and lawn response.

2. Can I use general-purpose lawn fertilizer?

Specific fertilizers for St. Augustine grass are recommended for optimal color, density, and disease resistance. General fertilizers may lack essential potassium or balanced nutrients. Using the right product improves overall lawn health.

3. What is the best time of day to fertilize?

Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to reduce sun scorch. Avoid fertilizing during the heat of the day. Water lightly after application to help nutrients penetrate soil.

4. Are organic fertilizers effective?

Yes, they provide slow, steady nutrient release and improve soil health. Organic options are safer for pets and children. They may require longer to see visible greening.

5. How much fertilizer should I apply?

Follow the product label for recommended rates. Over-fertilizing can burn grass and waste nutrients. Measuring tools or spreaders ensure uniform coverage.

6. Can fertilizers prevent pests and diseases?

Healthy, well-fertilized lawns are more resistant to stress and minor pests. Fertilizers do not directly kill insects or diseases. Complement with proper lawn care practices for best results.

7. Is it safe to apply fertilizer before rain?

Light rain can help wash nutrients into the soil. Avoid heavy rain immediately after application to prevent runoff. Timing ensures maximum absorption and minimal waste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best fertilizer for St. Augustine grass promotes lush, green growth while supporting strong roots and dense turf. The runner-up provides balanced nutrients for long-term lawn health and stress resistance.

Selecting high-quality fertilizers ensures vibrant color, improved disease resistance, and a thick lawn. Consistent use combined with proper application timing maximizes results. Homeowners benefit from formulations tailored to southern grasses.

Understanding nutrient needs, slow-release benefits, and application techniques ensures professional-level lawn care. Using these fertilizers helps maintain a resilient, visually appealing St. Augustine lawn. Choosing the right product avoids over-fertilization and reduces maintenance.

With these recommendations, homeowners can achieve a beautiful, healthy lawn year-round. Consistent care, proper watering, and the right fertilizer yield vibrant St. Augustine grass. Enjoy a dense, green, and robust lawn for outdoor enjoyment.