Spring Lawn Care in Volusia County: What to Do When Your Florida Lawn Warms Up

As temperatures rise across Volusia County - from Port Orange to Ormond Beach - warm-season grasses like St. Augustine, Bahia, and Zoysia begin actively growing again. Here's what you should do to rejuvenate your lawn:

• Start weekly mowing again

• Water deeply and infrequently at first sign of wilt

• Plan to apply your first round of fertilizer

When Should You Fertilize in Volusia County?

The best time to fertilize your lawn depends on the fertilizer you apply. During cooler months the emphasis should be on potassium which allows the root system to store energy and prepare it for any extreme cold temperatures. This allows the grass to have a stronger “immune system” in preparation of spring and summer. Springtime is when grass begins to grow. This is the time to apply nitrogen and extra minor elements to balance the lawns growth and “green it up”.

When Can You Fertilize Your Lawn in Volusia County?

Choosing a fertilizer and the timing of applying it is actually very important. In Volusia County, Ordinance 2014-09 prohibits the application of fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorous between June 1 and September 30. There are also strict rules that many homeowners (and most lawn companies) don't know about.

• You can't fertilize within 15ft of a body of water

• You can’t apply fertilizer in winds over 15mph

• Some fertilizers must be watered in and some don’t, so know what you’re applying.

• Remember, Label is law!

To avoid damaging your lawn, and avoid violating the ordinance, it's critical to follow water restrictions and water only at first sign of wilt (when the grass blades fold in half lengthwise).

Mowing recommendations for Florida lawns

St. Augustine grass should be cut at a minimum of 4.5”. The highest setting on the mower is preferable. Having sharp blades on your mower is an important aspect of having a healthy lawn. If the blades are dull, you will notice a very rough to jagged edge or shredding on the top blades of your turf. This can result in severe turf injury by adding stress to your lawn.

We are very adamant about watering and cutting practices. Our goal is to make sure your lawn has a deep root system which will increase root strength creating a thicker and healthier lawn. This is a team effort. Proper mowing along with our fertilization plan will help us get your lawn in shape. Thank you for being a part of our family. Please call us with any questions 386-492-7979

Call the experts at Liberty Lawn and Pest for a free lawn fertilization quote so you can relax and enjoy your perfect Florida lawn.