Ah, the verdant allure of Bermuda grass! A lush, emerald carpet that beckons us to kick off our shoes and revel in its velvety softness. But achieving that perfect lawn requires more than just good mowing techniques - it requires the best fertilizer for Bermuda grass.
Think of your lawn as a canvas, with each blade of grass a stroke of paint, each tuft a brushstroke. Just as a painter selects the finest brushes and paints to create their masterpiece, so too must you carefully choose the fertilizer that will bring out the best in your bermuda grass. Whether it's the vibrant green hues, the sturdy root system, or the resistance to pests and disease, each aspect of your lawn requires careful attention and nourishment.
Our Top Choices
Best Slow-Release Fertilizer for Bermuda Grass: Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer
Best Eco-Friendly Fertilizer for Bermuda Grass: Safer Brand Lawn Restore Fertilizer
Best Professional-Grade Fertilizer for Bermuda Grass: The Andersons PGF Complete Fertilizer with Humic DG
Best Fertilizer for Southern Lawns: Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food
Best Seed and Fertilizer Mix for Bermuda Grass: Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass Seed and Fertilizer Mix
Best Water-Soluble Fertilizer for Bermuda Grass: Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food, 5 lb.
Best Micronutrient Booster for Bermuda Grass: Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Energizer Micronutrient
So what makes for the best fertilizer for Bermuda grass? Is it the slow-release formulas that promote gradual growth and minimal thatch build-up? Or perhaps the nitrogen-rich blends that encourage rapid, lush growth? It all depends on the specific needs of your lawn, and the unique conditions of your soil.
One thing is for certain though - the best fertilizer is one that not only promotes healthy growth, but also promotes environmental sustainability. Organic fertilizers, such as compost and manure, not only provide essential nutrients for your bermuda grass, but also promote healthy soil ecosystems and reduce the need for harmful synthetic chemicals.
So as you prepare to achieve that perfect lawn, remember that the best fertilizer is not just about creating a stunning visual display, but also about cultivating a sustainable and healthy ecosystem for you and your family to enjoy.
Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer
Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer is an excellent choice for those looking for a product that is gentle on their Bermuda grass. One of the biggest advantages of this product is that it is organic and, therefore, won't burn the grass. This is particularly important for Bermuda grass, which is a warm-season grass that is sensitive to fertilizers. Unlike some other fertilizers on the market, Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer has an NPK ratio of 6-4-0, which means it is rich in nitrogen, making it ideal for promoting healthy growth in Bermuda grass.
Another benefit of Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer is that it can also deter deer from feeding on the grass. This is because the product is made from heat-dried microbes that are left over after treating wastewater. These microbes contain high levels of iron, which deer do not like. By using this fertilizer, homeowners can help keep deer away from their lawn and garden, which is a significant problem for many people.
Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer is also an excellent choice for promoting a strong root system in Bermuda grass. The product's slow-release formula ensures that the grass is getting the nutrients it needs over a long period. This is important because a strong root system is essential for healthy grass growth. By using this product, homeowners can be confident that their Bermuda grass is receiving the nutrients it needs to thrive.
One downside to Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer is that it has a strong odor when first applied. However, the odor dissipates quickly, and it is not harmful to humans or pets. This is a small inconvenience compared to the many benefits of using this product.
The package size of Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer is 32 pounds, and it can cover an area of 2,500 square feet. This makes it an excellent choice for larger lawns or gardens. Additionally, the product can be applied at any time of the year, making it easy to use whenever the grass needs a nutrient boost.
In conclusion, Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer is an excellent choice for those looking for an organic and gentle fertilizer for their Bermuda grass. Its high nitrogen content helps promote healthy grass growth, and the slow-release formula ensures that the grass receives nutrients over a long period. The product is also effective in deterring deer from feeding on the grass. While it does have a strong odor when first applied, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the many benefits of using this product. Overall, we highly recommend Milorganite 0636 Nitrogen Fertilizer for those looking to maintain a healthy and beautiful Bermuda grass lawn.
Safer Brand Lawn Restore Fertilizer
Safer Brand's Lawn Restore Fertilizer is a fantastic choice for those looking to improve the health and appearance of their Bermuda grass. This granular fertilizer has an NPK ratio of 9-0-2, which means it is rich in nitrogen and potassium. This balanced combination of nutrients helps promote healthy growth and a strong root system, which is essential for maintaining a lush and beautiful lawn.
One of the biggest benefits of Safer Brand's Lawn Restore Fertilizer is that it promotes a deep, healthy root system for Bermudagrass. This is important because a strong root system is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn. Additionally, the product's non-burning formula promotes soil vitality, which leads to a thicker and healthier lawn.
Another advantage of Safer Brand's Lawn Restore Fertilizer is that it is safe for pets and small children immediately after application. This is because the product does not contain any harmful chemicals or salts. Furthermore, the product contains no phosphorus, which is typically associated with flower growth.
Safer Brand's Lawn Restore Fertilizer is also effective year-round care. The product helps plants withstand heat, cold, and drought stresses, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a fertilizer that can provide effective year-round care. The product's slow-release formula ensures a proportionate release of nutrients over time, providing long-term growth without harming beneficial organisms in the soil.
The package size of Safer Brand's Lawn Restore Fertilizer is 20 pounds, and it can cover an area of 5,000 square feet, making it a great value for larger lawns or gardens. Additionally, the lawn starts to green up within 3 to 5 days after application.
In conclusion, Safer Brand's Lawn Restore Fertilizer is an excellent choice for those looking for a safe and effective fertilizer for their Bermuda grass. Its balanced combination of nutrients promotes healthy growth and a strong root system, and its non-burning formula promotes soil vitality for a thicker and healthier lawn. The product is also safe for pets and small children immediately after application, and its slow-release formula provides long-term growth without harming beneficial organisms in the soil. Overall, we highly recommend Safer Brand's Lawn Restore Fertilizer for those looking to maintain a beautiful and healthy Bermuda grass lawn.
The Andersons PGF Complete Fertilizer with Humic DG
If you're looking to fertilize your Bermuda grass, The Andersons PGF Complete Fertilizer with Humic DG is an excellent choice. Here's how to use it:
- Determine the size of your lawn. The 18 lb. bag of The Andersons PGF Complete Fertilizer with Humic DG covers 5,000 square feet, so if your lawn is larger, you may need multiple bags.
- Apply the fertilizer evenly. Spread the fertilizer using a broadcast spreader or a hand-held spreader. Be sure to adjust the spreader settings according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure an even distribution.
- Water the lawn. After applying the fertilizer, water the lawn thoroughly to help the granules dissolve and release the nutrients. The fertilizer will start to work immediately and provide quick green-up in as little as one week.
- Follow the recommended schedule. The Andersons PGF Complete Fertilizer with Humic DG is a slow-release fertilizer that provides continual feeding for up to 8 weeks. Therefore, it's important to follow the recommended schedule and reapply the fertilizer every 8 weeks to ensure your Bermuda grass receives the necessary nutrients.
- Store the fertilizer properly. Store the remaining fertilizer in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets, until it's time to apply the next application.
By using The Andersons PGF Complete Fertilizer with Humic DG on your Bermuda grass, you'll enjoy a lush, green lawn with improved nutrient absorption and total nutrition.
Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food
I highly recommend Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food to anyone looking to maintain a healthy, vibrant bermuda grass lawn. This granular fertilizer is specially designed to meet the unique needs of Southern lawns that are exposed to extreme heat and drought, making it an excellent choice for our climate.
One of the key benefits of Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food is its 32-0-10 NPK ratio, which includes a high percentage of nitrogen for a dark green lawn and a relatively high amount of potassium for overall plant health. Additionally, this fertilizer does not contain phosphorus, which is less harmful to aquatic ecosystems. This makes it an environmentally friendly choice for your lawn.
Another advantage of this fertilizer is its slow-release formula, which lasts for up to 6 weeks and reduces the amount of water needed during the hottest part of the year. It can be applied to any grass type and is safe to re-enter immediately after application. With a coverage area of 5,000 square feet, the 14-lb package is an economical choice for your lawn care needs.
Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food also includes Scotts All-in-One Particles for even distribution of nutrients, which helps to protect your lawn against heat and drought. Regular feedings with this fertilizer will improve your lawn's ability to absorb water and nutrients, making it more resilient against the stresses of weeds, weather, and activity. Leaving grass clippings on your lawn after mowing will also allow it to use water more effectively.
Finally, I suggest watering your lawn between 6 and 10 am to reduce water loss to evaporation and ensure that more water reaches the roots. With these tips and the use of Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food, you can achieve a healthy, thriving bermuda grass lawn.
Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass Seed and Fertilizer Mix
We are a big fan of Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass Seed and Fertilizer Mix at CF. This product is ideal for Southern lawns that receive 8 or more hours of sun per day, and it offers exceptional heat, drought, and traffic tolerance. With fast establishment and strong coverage, this seed and fertilizer mix can help you achieve 2x better results compared to regular Bermudagrass seed.
At ColumbiaFlorist, we have used Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass on numerous lawns for our clients, and the results have been impressive. For example, one of our clients had a large, bare lawn that was exposed to intense sun and heat. We recommended planting Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass in the spring, and within just a few weeks, the lawn was covered in lush, green grass. The heat and drought tolerance of the grass allowed it to thrive even in the harshest conditions, and it held up well under foot traffic, making it a great choice for this client's active lifestyle.
Another client had a small lawn that was surrounded by mature trees, which cast shade for part of the day. Despite the limited sun exposure, we were able to achieve great results using Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass. The temporary cool-season companion grass included in the mix provided stability and early color, which faded away as the heat arrived. This allowed the Bermudagrass to establish more quickly, and the lawn was soon covered in a dense, green carpet of grass.
In both of these cases, the clients were thrilled with the results, and the Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass Seed and Fertilizer Mix proved to be an excellent choice for their lawns. Whether you're planting a new lawn or overseeding an existing one, I highly recommend this product for its fast establishment, strong coverage, and exceptional heat, drought, and traffic tolerance.
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food, 5 lb.
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food is a 5-pound product that promises to provide a quick boost of nitrogen-rich nutrients to promote dense, green growth of all grass types and other plants. This product is designed to be easy-to-apply and can be used with the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder for quick and beautiful results or with a watering can by mixing 1 tablespoon of Miracle-Gro for every gallon of water. The product is formulated to feed through both the roots and grass blades, and each packet feeds up to 1,800 square feet of lawn at the recommended application rate. The product dissolves easily during watering, providing an even coverage, and it is best used every 4 to 6 weeks when the grass is growing.
The Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder, on the other hand, is a product that works well with Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food to provide quick and beautiful results. It covers up to 4,000 square feet per box and feeds through both the roots and leaves, making it a comprehensive feeding solution. The Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder is safe for all grasses and plants and can be used in any season when grass is growing. One feeder refill packet will cover 1,000 square feet in approximately 12 minutes, making it an efficient solution for large lawns.
In conclusion, Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food and the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder provide an easy and efficient solution for promoting dense, green growth of all grass types and other plants. With the ability to feed through both the roots and blades, these products promise quick and beautiful results that are safe for all grasses and plants. Whether you choose to use the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder or the watering can method, these products are sure to provide the nutrients your lawn needs to thrive.
Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Energizer Micronutrient
Simple Lawn Solutions’ Lawn Energizer is a 32-ounce product designed to improve soil composition and encourage dense turf growth in all grass species, including Bermuda grass. With a hose attachment included for easy application, this product promises to promote a deep green color in all grass species, making it ideal for small to medium lawns. This product is manufactured in the United States by a family-owned business with 25 years of experience in the commercial professional turf industry, ensuring a high level of quality and expertise.
This concentrated liquid fertilizer is a ready-to-use spray bottle that is convenient for application and can be used in conjunction with a regular fertilization program. With a coverage of 3,200 square feet, this product is suitable for use on all grass types, including Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, Buffalo, Centipede, Florida Palmetto, Bahia, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Kentucky Bluegrass. The product contains a 6-0-0 NPK ratio, which is a blend of nitrogen, iron, and micronutrients to energize your lawn and soil to its optimum nutrient levels for maximum health, growth, and color.
In conclusion, Simple Lawn Solutions’ Lawn Energizer is a convenient and effective solution for improving soil composition and promoting dense turf growth in all grass species, including Bermuda grass. With a hose attachment included for easy application, this product is ideal for small to medium lawns and can be used in conjunction with a regular fertilization program. The product is manufactured by a family-owned business with 25 years of experience in the commercial professional turf industry, ensuring a high level of quality and expertise.
Questions you might be asking
What type of fertilizer is best for Bermuda grass?
Bermuda grass requires a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). A fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 16-4-8 or 18-0-6 is ideal for Bermuda grass, as this will provide essential nutrients in the right ratio to support healthy growth.
How often should I fertilize Bermuda grass?
The frequency of fertilization for Bermuda grass will depend on the specific growing conditions and the health of the grass. In general, it is recommended to fertilize Bermuda grass every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, or approximately 4 times a year.
Can I use organic fertilizer for Bermuda grass?
Yes, you can use organic fertilizer for Bermuda grass. Organic fertilizers, such as compost, worm castings, or composted chicken manure, can provide essential nutrients to support healthy growth and are a great option for those who prefer a more natural approach to lawn care.
Is it better to fertilize Bermuda grass in the spring or fall?
Bermuda grass can be fertilized in both the spring and fall, but it is most important to fertilize when the grass is actively growing. In the spring, Bermuda grass is coming out of dormancy and is ready to start growing, so fertilizing then will provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. In the fall, fertilizing will help build reserves for the winter and maintain green color throughout the fall.
Can I over-fertilize Bermuda grass?
Yes, you can over-fertilize Bermuda grass. Over-fertilizing can cause excessive growth, which can weaken the grass and make it more susceptible to disease and pests. It is important to follow the recommended application rate for your specific fertilizer and to only fertilize as needed, based on soil tests and the health of your grass.
How do I make my Bermuda grass thicker and greener?
To make Bermuda grass thicker and greener, it is important to provide adequate water and nutrients. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer that provides essential nutrients in the right ratio, such as an NPK ratio of 16-4-8 or 18-0-6, can help promote healthy growth and improve the color of your grass. Additionally, proper mowing, aeration, and weed control can help maintain a healthy and thick Bermuda grass lawn.
How can I make Bermuda grass spread faster?
To make Bermuda grass spread faster, it is important to provide adequate water, sunlight, and nutrients. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer that provides essential nutrients in the right ratio can help promote healthy growth and encourage the grass to spread. Additionally, proper mowing, aeration, and weed control can help maintain a healthy Bermuda grass lawn and allow it to spread more quickly.
Is lime good for Bermuda grass?
Yes, lime can be good for Bermuda grass. Lime is a soil amendment that helps to adjust the pH of the soil to a level that is ideal for Bermuda grass. Bermuda grass prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0, and applying lime can help bring the soil to this optimal range.
How often should I fertilize my Bermuda grass?
The frequency of fertilization for Bermuda grass will depend on the specific growing conditions and the health of the grass. In general, it is recommended to fertilize Bermuda grass every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, or approximately 4 times a year.
When is the best time to fertilize my Bermuda grass?
The best time to fertilize Bermuda grass will depend on the specific growing conditions and the health of the grass. Bermuda grass can be fertilized in both the spring and fall, but it is most important to fertilize when the grass is actively growing. In the spring, Bermuda grass is coming out of dormancy and is ready to start growing, so fertilizing then will provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. In the fall, fertilizing will help build reserves for the winter and maintain green color throughout the fall.
What kind of fertilizer is best for Bermuda grass?
Bermuda grass requires a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). A fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 16-4-8 or 18-0-6 is ideal for Bermuda grass, as this will provide essential nutrients in the right ratio to support healthy growth.
When should I fertilize Bermuda?
The best time to fertilize Bermuda grass will depend on the specific growing conditions and the health of the grass. Bermuda grass can be fertilized in both the spring and fall, but it is most important to fertilize when the grass is actively growing.
Can you fertilize Bermuda in summer?
Yes, you can fertilize Bermuda grass in the summer. Bermuda grass is most actively growing during the summer months, so fertilizing then can provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and maintain green color throughout the summer.
How do you thicken Bermuda grass?
To thicken Bermuda grass, it is important to provide adequate water, sunlight, and nutrients. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer that provides essential nutrients in the right ratio can help promote healthy growth and improve the thickness of your grass. Additionally, proper mowing, aeration, and weed control can help maintain a healthy and thick Bermuda grass lawn.
Sources we used in this tutorial