Many homeowners treat Floratam the same way they treat common varieties like Bermuda or Fescue. This is a primary error because St. Augustine grass is a hungry diva that demands specific nutrients to maintain its rich color. Using the wrong ratio can actually stunt the growth of your lawn rather than help it flourish.
Choosing the Best Fertilizers for Floratam Grass involves understanding exactly what this dense variety needs to survive. A bit of focused effort during the early spring and summer months makes a massive difference in how your lawn performs. Keep reading to see which options prioritize the health of your soil and roots.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize formulas with a higher nitrogen content to support the vigorous leafy growth characteristic of St. Augustine varieties.
- Search for added micronutrients like iron and humic acid to improve soil structure and deepen the green hue of the blades.
- Confirm the application method fits your current equipment, choosing between granular spreaders or hose-end liquid sprayers.
- Avoid products containing heavy weed-control agents unless you have a confirmed infestation, as these chemicals can occasionally stress sensitive Floratam.
- Factor in the total square footage of your yard to ensure you purchase a sufficient quantity for multiple applications throughout the growing season.
| Rapid Nutrient Absorption |  |
Scotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn Food | Fast acting results | Easy hose attachment | Non burning formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Granular Classic |  |
Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food | Proven steady growth | Simple broadcast application | Reliable seasonal nutrition | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Precise Seasonal Supplement |  |
Simple Lawn Solutions Balanced Liquid Fertilizer | Concentrated liquid formula | Balanced NPK ratio | Promotes root health | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Soil Health Specialist |  |
Andersons Professional PGF Complete Fertilizer | Professional grade humic acid | Small particle distribution | Improves soil structure | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| New Growth Foundation |  |
Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer | Supports root development | Ideal for new sod | Encourages rapid establishment | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Dual Purpose Defense |  |
Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Insect Control | Fertilizer plus insecticide | Prevents pest damage | Easy seasonal application | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Aggressive Weed Management |  |
Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed | Eliminates common weeds | Feeds grass simultaneously | Wide coverage area | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Iron Rich Greener |  |
Scotts Liquid Green Max Food | Deepens green color | Fast iron absorption | Versatile liquid application | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| High Nitrogen Booster |  |
Simple Lawn Solutions Maximum Growth | High nitrogen concentration | Rapid growth stimulant | Easy sprayer attachment | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Comprehensive Turf Cocktail |  |
PetraMax Neighbors Envy Fertilizer | Includes sea kelp | Balanced micronutrients | Large coverage area | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Scotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn Food
If you want to see a visible green-up without waiting weeks, this liquid formula is your best bet. It acts like a quick infusion of energy for your lawn, making it ideal for Floratam that looks a little tired or pale.
Because it is a liquid application, the grass blades soak up the nutrients almost immediately. Just keep in mind that liquids provide a shorter boost compared to granular options, so you might need to apply it more frequently to keep that color consistent.
- Brand:Scotts
- Application Type:Liquid
- Weight Or Volume:32 fl. oz.
- Primary Nutrients:29-0-3
- Additional Feature:Ready to spray bottle
- Additional Feature:Covers all grass types
- Additional Feature:Immediate absorption rate
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Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food
This is the standard granular fertilizer that most homeowners reach for because it simply gets the job done. It provides a balanced feeding that supports the long term health of your Floratam turf.
The granular texture ensures the nutrients release slowly over time. This means you do not have to worry about a massive surge of growth followed by a crash, providing consistent feeding throughout the season.
- Brand:Scotts
- Application Type:Granular
- Weight Or Volume:12.5 lbs.
- Coverage Area:5,000 sq. ft.
- Additional Feature:Even nutrient distribution
- Additional Feature:Improves root strength
- Additional Feature:Weatherproof packaging
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Simple Lawn Solutions Balanced Liquid Fertilizer
This balanced liquid formula is excellent for those who like to fine tune their feeding schedule. It provides a 16-4-8 ratio that supports both leaf growth and root health without overloading the soil.
It works exceptionally well as a supplemental spray during the height of the summer. The only drawback is that you will need a consistent application routine to maintain the benefits, as liquid nutrients wash away faster than solids.
- Brand:Simple Lawn Solutions
- Application Type:Liquid
- Weight Or Volume:32 oz.
- Primary Nutrients:16-4-8
- Additional Feature:Spring and summer use
- Additional Feature:Highly concentrated spray
- Additional Feature:Easy to mix
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Andersons Professional PGF Complete Fertilizer
If you want to treat your soil as well as your grass, this is the professional choice. It includes 7% Humic DG, which helps your Floratam better absorb the nutrients you are already providing.
This is a premium choice for those who view their lawn as a serious project. The small particle size allows the fertilizer to fall deep into the canopy, ensuring the nutrients reach the soil surface rather than just sitting on top of the blades.
- Brand:The Andersons
- Application Type:Granular
- Coverage Area:5,000 sq. ft.
- Primary Nutrients:16-4-8
- Special Additives:7% Humic DG
- Additional Feature:Enhanced nutrient uptake
- Additional Feature:Consistent particle size
- Additional Feature:High quality ingredients
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Scotts Turf Builder Starter Fertilizer
When you are establishing new Floratam sod or plugs, you need to focus on roots rather than just green leaves. This formula is designed specifically to help young grass take hold in the soil quickly.
It contains the necessary phosphorus to encourage a dense root system early on. Do not use this as a general maintenance feed for established lawns, as it is formulated specifically for the needs of immature turf.
- Brand:Scotts
- Application Type:Granular
- Weight Or Volume:15 lbs.
- Coverage Area:5,000 sq. ft.
- Additional Feature:Promotes early growth
- Additional Feature:Easy to spread
- Additional Feature:Safe for new grass
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Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Insect Control
Floratam often falls victim to pests like chinch bugs, which can destroy a lawn in a matter of weeks. This product provides a two-for-one solution by feeding the grass while simultaneously handling common insect issues.
It is a lifesaver if you notice brown patches appearing during the heat of the summer. Remember that this should be used as a preventative or early response tool, as it cannot revive grass that is already completely dead from severe infestations.
- Brand:Scotts
- Application Type:Granular
- Weight Or Volume:13.35 lbs.
- Coverage Area:5,000 sq. ft.
- Additional Feature:Targets lawn damaging insects
- Additional Feature:Encourages heat resilience
- Additional Feature:Convenient one-step process
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Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed
Dealing with dandelions and clover in a Floratam lawn is a constant battle. This granular fertilizer knocks out weeds while giving your desirable grass a healthy dose of nitrogen to help it crowd out any new invaders.
It is best to apply this when the weeds are actively growing to get the maximum herbicidal effect. Be careful not to use this if you have recently laid new sod, as the weed killer component can be too harsh for young, sensitive root systems.
- Brand:Scotts
- Application Type:Granular
- Weight Or Volume:14.29 lbs.
- Coverage Area:5,000 sq. ft.
- Additional Feature:Kills dandelion and clover
- Additional Feature:Promotes thick turf
- Additional Feature:Easy to apply
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Scotts Liquid Green Max Food
Sometimes your lawn has enough nitrogen but lacks the deep color you crave. This liquid supplement uses added iron to give your Floratam a dark, rich, almost emerald appearance without causing excessive, unwanted growth.
It is perfect for a quick touch-up before a big weekend or event. Just be mindful that liquid iron can stain concrete or stone paths if you get it on them, so spray carefully and rinse your walkways immediately after application.
- Brand:Scotts
- Application Type:Liquid
- Weight Or Volume:32 oz.
- Special Additives:Iron Supplement
- Additional Feature:2-in-1 formula
- Additional Feature:Quick visual results
- Additional Feature:Works on all grass
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Simple Lawn Solutions Maximum Growth
When your Floratam needs a serious kick of nitrogen to fill in bare spots, this high-nitrogen spray is the answer. It is a powerhouse formula designed to push growth and restore a lawn that has been neglected.
Because it is so concentrated, you will see the effects quickly. Use this sparingly, as too much nitrogen can actually make your grass more susceptible to certain fungal diseases if the moisture levels in your yard are not balanced.
- Brand:Simple Lawn Solutions
- Application Type:Liquid
- Weight Or Volume:32 oz.
- Primary Nutrients:28-0-0
- Additional Feature:Quick release formula
- Additional Feature:Attached spray nozzle
- Additional Feature:Spring and summer use
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PetraMax Neighbors Envy Fertilizer
This is essentially a complete multivitamin for your lawn. It blends nitrogen with iron, humic acid, and sea kelp to provide a well-rounded diet that addresses almost every aspect of turf health.
It is designed for the homeowner who wants a dense, healthy lawn without buying five different products. While it is highly effective, the complex mix means it carries a higher price point than basic nitrogen-only fertilizers.
- Brand:PetraMax
- Application Type:Liquid
- Coverage Area:16,000 sq. ft.
- Primary Nutrients:Nitrogen/Iron
- Special Additives:Humic/Sea Kelp
- Additional Feature:7-in-1 formula
- Additional Feature:Pet-safe ingredients
- Additional Feature:Deep green results
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I fertilize my Floratam lawn?
You should aim to feed your lawn every six to eight weeks during the active growing season. Start your first application in the spring once the grass has fully greened up and stop before the first frost arrives in the fall.
Can I use a weed and feed product on Floratam?
Be very careful here because many herbicides in weed and feed products can kill or severely damage Floratam grass. Always read the label to ensure the product is specifically labeled as safe for St. Augustine varieties. If you are unsure, it is safer to apply fertilizer and weed control measures separately.
Should I water the lawn after applying fertilizer?
Yes, watering is essential to wash the granules off the grass blades and down into the soil. Aim for about one quarter inch of water immediately after application to activate the nutrients. This step prevents the fertilizer from scorching the leaves in the direct sun.
Why is my Floratam grass turning yellow?
Yellowing often happens due to an iron deficiency or a lack of nitrogen. If your soil pH is too high, the grass might struggle to access the nutrients you have already applied. Check your soil pH first, then consider a liquid iron supplement if the issue persists.
Does Floratam need more fertilizer than other grass types?
Floratam is a hungry grass that requires more nitrogen than common varieties like Bermuda or Zoysia. It is a heavy feeder that will start to thin out and lose its color quickly if you skip feedings. Keep to a regular schedule to maintain a thick, healthy lawn that can crowd out weeds.
