When to Fertilize Your Lawn in South Louisiana (and What to Use)
If you live in South Louisiana, you already know that our warm, humid climate keeps grass growing almost year-round — which is great for lush lawns, but it also means proper fertilization is key. Knowing when and what to fertilize with can make the difference between a vibrant, healthy yard and one that struggles through the seasons.
At Emerald Landscapes, we help homeowners in Mandeville, Covington, Slidell, and surrounding areas keep their lawns looking their best. Here's what you need to know.
🌤 Timing is Everything: Fertilizing in South Louisiana
Our region falls into what's called a warm-season grass zone, meaning grasses like St. Augustine, Centipede, Zoysia, and Bermuda are most common. These grasses thrive in heat but go dormant in winter — so timing your fertilization with their growing season is essential.
Best Months to Fertilize:
Late March to Early April – First application after grass greens up
Mid-to-late June – Second application during peak growing season
Early September – Final light application before fall sets in
💡 Avoid fertilizing in winter — it can stress your lawn and encourage weed growth.
🧪 What Kind of Fertilizer Should You Use?
Different grasses and soil types need different nutrients, but a general rule in our area is to use a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer.
Our Go-To Recommendations:
St. Augustine or Centipede Lawns: Use a balanced fertilizer like 15-0-15 or 16-4-8
Bermuda or Zoysia Lawns: Opt for something with a bit more nitrogen, like 21-7-14
Organic Options: Milorganite is a solid choice for those looking to go the natural route
We always recommend doing a soil test (which we can help with) to fine-tune your fertilization plan. Some lawns may need lime to balance pH, especially in areas near Abita Springs or Hammond where soil tends to be more acidic.
🚫 Common Fertilization Mistakes in Louisiana
Applying too early – Grass needs to be actively growing
Using too much nitrogen – Leads to excessive growth and potential disease
Skipping weed control – Fertilizer feeds your grass and the weeds unless you plan accordingly
At Emerald Landscapes, we offer bundled lawn fertilization and weed control programs to tackle both issues together.
💚 Let the Pros Handle It
Fertilizing might sound simple, but timing, formulation, and application technique all play a role. That’s where we come in. Our team understands Northshore Louisiana soil and climate inside and out — and we tailor each treatment to your lawn’s unique needs.
📍 Serving Mandeville, Covington, Slidell, Abita Springs, and beyond
📞 Call us at 504-912-0042 or contact us here to schedule your free lawn evaluation.
