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Fertility
Apply between 2 and 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1000 S.F. annually,
during the growing season. Select a fertilizer that is labeled
for use on St. Augustine lawns. Do not apply fertilizer to
wet turf to avoid burning. Too much fertility will result
in disease and a thatchy and unhealthy lawn. Lime should be
applied when soil pH is below 6.0 at the rate of 50 pounds
per 1000 SF
Mowing
Mow between 2 and 3 inches high. Catch and remove clippings.
Never remove more than 1/3 of the leaf at any one cutting.
Always use a sharp blade. Best mowed with a rotary mower.
Watering
Though not drought tolerant, St. Augustine prefers infrequent
deep watering. Do not over-water (avoid standing water for
any period of time). Irrigate to relieve drought stress.
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Thatch Removal
Periodically it may be necessary to rake heavily to remove
accumulated thatch and debris. This is best accomplished in
April or May. An application of fertilizer at the rate of
1 pound of Nitrogen per 1000 SF is recommended after thatch
removal.
Weeds
The use of a pre-emerge herbicide, recommended for use on
St. Augustine lawns on the label, is strongly recommended
in the spring.
Pests
Pests may become a problem, especially if St. Augustine
is not growing in a healthy way - too much or too little fertilizer
or water, etc. If pests persist, contact the local county
agent or nursery owner and ask for assistance in identification
of the problem and the recommended control.
Back to the St.
Augustinegrass Sod Overview
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