When to fertilize new Bermuda sod? If you have new Bermuda sod, you may be wondering when and how to fertilize. Knowing when to fertilize your new lawn is essential for keeping it healthy and green all year long.
In this article, we’ll explain why fertilizing new sod is so important, the types of lawn fertilizers available, and the best timing for fertilizing your new grass.
We guarantee weed and pest free quality sod delivered to your doorstep. Our sod installation page has more information.
When should you apply fertilizer to newly laid Bermuda sod?
After installation, you should wait around 30 days before applying any lawn fertilizer to your new sod. This gives the roots time to establish themselves in the soil and start absorbing nutrients. Once those first few weeks has passed, you can begin a regular fertilizing schedule.
Texas A&M University has published a pdf titled, “Maintaining Bermudagrass Lawns,” that has helpful information about taking care of Bermuda turf.
Fertilizer type:
Liquid, granular, and water-soluble are some of the most common types of fertilizer used on Bermuda. Liquid fertilizer is easy to apply as a spray. It provides quick results as it breaks down quickly in the soil. Granular fertilizer can be applied with a spreader. Water-soluble fertilizer dissolves easily in water and is good for treating large areas quickly.
Lawn fertilization is one of the services we offer. Check out our lawn fertilization page for details.
NPK ratio:
All fertilizer has an NPK ratio that stands for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). This ratio indicates how much of each nutrient is present in the fertilizer mix.
The ratio helps determine what kind of growth response your turfgrass will have from it. Nitrogen promotes lush green growth. Phosphorus encourages root development. Potassium helps build strong plants with greater disease resistance.
Organic vs Synthetic fertilizers:
Natural or organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources such as animal manure or compost, while synthetic fertilizers are made up of chemicals that aren’t found naturally in nature. Furthermore, organic fertilizers don’t contain any harsh chemicals but they may not be as effective as synthetic products. Especially if you are wanting quick results with little effort on your part.
Synthetic products tend to be more concentrated than organic ones, so they deliver faster results. That being said, they also come with their own sets of risks. These include runoff into local waterways or even burned patches if too much is applied at once.
Soil pH test:
Before you apply any type of fertilizer to your lawn, it’s important to test the pH level of your soil first because different nutrients require different pH levels in order for them to be absorbed by the grass blades.
A soil test kit can help you determine if there are any deficiencies or excesses. This information will help guide your choice of fertilizer type and application rate accordingly.
Texas A&M University has great information about why and how to test your soil pH. Read their article, “Don’t Guess, Soil Test.”
Keep you new lawn looking well-trimmed and manicured with out lawn maintenance service.
How often should I fertilize my Bermuda grass?
Over the course of a year, lawn fertilizer should be applied 2-4 times a year from late winter through early fall. Generally speaking, you should aim to feed your grass once during spring and once during summer when the grass is actively growing. You will also need to apply lawn fertilizer once in the fall and one other time in late winter.
Here is a link to a detailed weed and feed schedule, “Following a Weed and Feed Schedule for Your Lawn.”
Final Thoughts
Fertilizing your new Bermuda sod is an important part of maintaining its health and vitality over time. Knowing exactly when and how much fertilizer to use can seem daunting at first glance.
By following these basic guidelines—waiting 1 month after installation before applying lawn fertilizer and testing your soil pH, you will be set up for success.
You’ll soon have a healthy lawn that remains lush green all year round! With just a few simple steps, caring for your new Bermuda sod doesn’t have to be complicated after all.
