Choosing the right winter fertilizer for St. Augustine grass helps promote healthy root growth, color, and disease resistance during the cooler months. The products below are designed to address nutrient needs and weed control for St. Augustine turf in American yards. This guide reviews five suitable options, highlighting nutrient content, application guidance, and suitability for Floratam and other St. Augustine varieties. Use the buying guide to compare options based on coverage, release type, and lawn conditions to find the best fit for your winter lawn care plan.
| Product | Key Benefit | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilome (13915) St. Augustine Weed & Feed 15-0-4 | Pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control with lawn fertilizer | St. Augustine, Centipede, Zoysia |
| LESCO 50 lb. St. Augustine Grass Weed and Feed with Penoxsulam | Slow-release formula; targets weeds while feeding | St. Augustine lawns including Floratam |
| Sunniland Weed & Feed 20-0-6 Lawn Fertilizer | Easy spreading; two applications per season | St. Augustine varieties |
| Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Fertilizer | Deep root support; heat and drought resilience | Southern lawns including St. Augustine |
| SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn 24-2-11 Fertilizer | Iron for greening; targeted for St. Augustine turf | St. Augustine lawns |
Note: The table above highlights general suitability and intended use. Always read product labels for compatibility with your specific St. Augustine cultivar and local climate conditions. The following product reviews provide objective details to help you compare nutrient composition, coverage, and application timing.
Fertilome (13915) St. Augustine Weed & Feed 15-0-4
Fertilome St. Augustine Weed & Feed 15-0-4 Review
Overview: This product combines a 15-0-4 fertilizer mix with both pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control. It is designed for Centipede, Zoysia and St. Augustine lawns, making it a versatile option for multi-grass yards. It should not be used on Bermuda or other Northern grasses. The pre-emergent weed control helps reduce seedling weed establishment, while the post-emergent component addresses visible weeds after germination.
Nutrient Profile and Coverage: The low-nitrogen content aligns with winter care goals, reducing risk of excessive growth during cooler periods. Coverage details vary by bag size; users should follow the label to estimate square footage. Expect a cautious green-up in spring as nutrients release and weeds are managed.
Application Considerations: Apply when weeds are actively growing and the lawn is not water-stressed. Avoid application on hot or droughty conditions, and follow dilution guidelines if spreading with a broadcast spreader. The combination of weed control and fertilizer helps simplify seasonal lawn care.
LESCO 50 lb. St. Augustine Grass Weed and Feed with Penoxsulam
LESCO St. Augustine Weed and Feed with Penoxsulam
Overview: This product is a professional-grade lawn fertilizer with a weed-control component, designed specifically for St. Augustine turf. It includes a slow-release formula to extend feeding and reduce peak nutrient flushes. The presence of Penoxsulam helps tackle common lawn weeds associated with warm-season grasses.
Nutrient Profile and Coverage: The blend aims to provide a balanced feeding over several weeks. Users should apply on a wet lawn and allow it to dry, then expect results within about two weeks as the active weed control works alongside ongoing fertilization. It is formulated for Floratam and other St. Augustine varieties.
Application Considerations: Use as part of a weed management program and avoid overseeding or applying to drought-stressed lawns. Its slow-release properties help maintain color and vigor while reducing the risk of fertilizer burn during winter months.
Sunniland Weed & Feed 20-0-6 Lawn Fertilizer
Sunniland Weed & Feed 20-0-6 for St. Augustine
Overview: This Weed & Feed product features a starting 20-0-6 formulation, balancing weed control with nutrient delivery. It emphasizes ease of use, with a granular spread and two application periods in spring and fall, aligning with typical St. Augustine lawn care cycles.
Nutrient Profile and Coverage: The 0% nitrogen in the herbicide-focused portion means it concentrates on weed suppression while providing essential nutrients via the 20-0-6 blend. It supports greening and root development, contributing to a robust lawn during cooler months when growth slows.
Application Considerations: Ideal for homeowners seeking straightforward applications with fewer sessions. Ensure even spreading to avoid uneven greening and monitor soil moisture for best efficacy of both weed control and nutrition.
Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Fertilizer
Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Fertilizer
Overview: This product is tailored for Southern lawns and supports St. Augustine turf by promoting deep rooting and resilience to heat and drought. It contains all-in-one particles designed to improve nutrient absorption and root health, which is beneficial during transition periods between seasons.
Nutrient Profile and Coverage: With a focus on a broad spectrum of nutrients, this fertilizer aims to improve water and nutrient uptake. It can be applied to both wet and dry lawns, offering flexibility in seasonal schedules when weather conditions vary.
Application Considerations: Follow label directions for dosage and timing to prevent over-fertilization. This product can be part of a broader winter-to-spring plan to support color retention and root growth in St. Augustine lawns.
SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn 24-2-11 Fertilizer
SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn 24-2-11 Fertilizer
Overview: This fertilizer contains 24-2-11, with a notable 6% iron for enhanced greening. It is designed to deliver nutrients across 12,000 sq ft and is targeted to St. Augustine lawns, supporting color and growth during cooler periods when photosynthetic activity slows.
Nutrient Profile and Coverage: The high iron content contributes to a deep green color, while the balanced NPK ratio supports sustained growth. Coverage is substantial, making it a viable option for mid- to large-size St. Augustine lawns.
Application Considerations: Use according to label instructions, especially in soils with iron sensitivity to avoid potential staining. Pair with compatible water management practices to maximize nutrient utilization during winter months.
Southern Ag 006130 Atrazine St. Augustine Weed Killer
Southern Ag Atrazine Weed Killer for St. Augustine
Overview: This product is a targeted herbicide designed to control weeds in St. Augustine and Centipede grasses. It comes in a 32 oz bottle and covers large areas, helping maintain weed-free turf during transition seasons when cool-season and warm-season weeds may appear.
Application Considerations: Apply according to label directions and ensure proper dilution for safe use on St. Augustine lawns. Consider weather patterns to prevent drift and runoff, especially near ornamental plantings and waterways.
Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food
Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food for All Grass Types
Overview: This versatile fertilizer is suitable for all grass types, including St. Augustine. It emphasizes strong, deep roots and improved water and nutrient absorption, helping the lawn withstand seasonal stress. It is designed to be used on both wet and dry lawns, offering flexibility for winter care schedules.
Application Considerations: Follow the spreader settings and label instructions to avoid over-fertilization. Pair with proper mowing and irrigation practices to maximize root development and color during winter months.
Buying Guide for Winter Fertilizers For St Augustine Grass
Nutrient Balance: Look for a balanced N-P-K ratio that provides adequate nitrogen for winter color without encouraging excessive growth. Consider products with iron or micronutrients for greening, but avoid excessive nitrogen in dormant periods.
Weed Control: If weed pressure is a concern in winter, select products that combine weed control with fertilization. Pre-emergent and post-emergent options can help reduce weed establishment during the transition between seasons.
Release Type: Slow-release or controlled-release formulations provide sustained feeding over weeks, reducing the risk of fertilizer burn and minimizing the need for frequent applications in cooler weather.
Coverage and Application: Calculate square footage to choose the right bag size and spreader setting. Larger yards benefit from slow-release, less frequent applications, while smaller lawns may use quick-release options with precise timing.
Compatibility: Verify compatibility with your specific St. Augustine cultivar (e.g., Floratam) and avoid products not labeled for warm-season grasses. Some products are specifically designed for St. Augustine and Centipede, which can improve results.
Environmental and Safety Considerations: Follow local regulations, avoid fertilizer runoff into waterways, and ensure proper storage away from children and pets. Read label warnings regarding application near stressed or newly seeded areas.
Seasonal Timing: Plan applications to align with the lawn’s dormancy cycle and regional climate. Winter applications focus on maintaining color and root health, with adjustments as temperatures rise toward spring.
User Considerations: Choose products that match your lawn size, soil type, and weed presence. Simple weed-and-feed options can benefit homeowners seeking an all-in-one solution, while specialized products provide targeted weed control and enhanced greening.