7 Best Summer Fertilizers for St Augustine Grass in 2026 (Summer Buyer’s Guide)

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Thoms
Written By Thomas James

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You're knee-deep in the heat of summer, and your St. Augustine grass is looking a bit worse for wear. You're on the hunt for the perfect fertilizer to give it a healthy boost, but the options can feel overwhelming. Maybe you've spent hours scouring Amazon reviews or consulted with gardening experts, but you still can't decide which one will deliver the best results. As you scan the aisles, you see a plethora of choices, each promising to bring your lawn to life. But what really sets the best summer fertilizers for St. Augustine grass apart?

Key Takeaways

  • When shopping for the best summer fertilizers for St. Augustine grass, look for products with a high nitrogen content, as this will promote healthy growth and greener foliage.
  • A slow-release formula is essential for maintaining a consistent nutrient delivery system, reducing the need for frequent applications.
  • Consider products that contain phosphorus-free formulas, as these are safer for the environment and won't leach into waterways.
  • Always choose a fertilizer that is specifically designed for St. Augustine grass, as these products have been tailored to meet the unique needs of this particular type of grass.
  • When comparing products, pay close attention to the coverage area, ensuring that the product you choose can handle your lawn's size without requiring multiple applications.

Our Top Best Summer Fertilizers For St Augustine Grass Picks

Weed-Free Lawn Starter Sunniland St. Augustine Weed & Feed Sunniland St. Augustine Weed & Feed Weed-free lawn Easy application Versatile for St. Augustine grass View on Amazon Read Review
Balanced Lawn Nutrition Advanced 16-4-8 Lawn Food Advanced 16-4-8 Lawn Food Balanced NPK formula High-quality ingredients Suitable for all grass types View on Amazon Read Review
All-in-One Lawn Protection Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard All-in-one lawn protection Won't burn lawn Insect control feature View on Amazon Read Review
Fast-Absorbing Lawn Food St. Augustine Grass Fertilizer St. Augustine Grass Fertilizer Fast-absorbing nutrients High-nitrogen formula Easy mix and feed design View on Amazon Read Review
Balanced Lawn Nutrition 2 Sunniland St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer Sunniland St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer Balanced 20-0-6 nutrient formula Phosphorus-free Slow-release nitrogen View on Amazon Read Review
Strong Root Growth Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food Builds strong roots Pesticide-free formula Suitable for all grass types View on Amazon Read Review
High-Nitrogen Formula SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer High-nitrogen formula 6% iron content 12,000 sq ft coverage View on Amazon Read Review

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Sunniland St. Augustine Weed & Feed

    Sunniland St. Augustine Weed & Feed

    Weed-Free Lawn Starter

    View on Amazon

    For those with large lawns, Sunniland St. Augustine Weed & Feed is an efficient and straightforward solution. Its easy-to-spread granules and versatility for all types of St. Augustine grass make it a top choice for many homeowners. The 2-application schedule for spring and fall ensures a consistent and well-nourished lawn. However, this product may not be the best option for those seeking a more targeted or precise fertilizer. If you're willing to put in the extra effort, the results are well worth it.

    • Brand:Sunniland
    • Type:Granular Fertilizer
    • Size/Capacity:5000 sq ft
    • Material:Nitrogen-based
    • Power/Speed:N/A
    • Count:2 applications
    • Additional Feature:Weed control for 2 months
    • Additional Feature:Lawn feed for St. Augustine grass
  2. Advanced 16-4-8 Lawn Food

    Advanced 16-4-8 Lawn Food

    Balanced Lawn Nutrition

    View on Amazon

    If you're looking for a liquid fertilizer that provides a balanced blend of nutrients, Advanced 16-4-8 Lawn Food is an excellent choice. This product is manufactured in the United States and contains high-quality feed-grade ingredients that promote healthy growth and lush lawns. With its easy-to-use design and complete NPK formula, it's suitable for a wide range of grass types.

    • Brand:Simple Lawn Solutions
    • Type:Liquid Fertilizer
    • Size/Capacity:32 oz
    • Material:NPK-based
    • Power/Speed:N/A
    • Count:N/A
    • Additional Feature:Seaweed and fish-based formula
    • Additional Feature:Concentrated spray for easy application
  3. Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard

    Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard

    All-in-One Lawn Protection

    View on Amazon

    Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard is a comprehensive lawn care product that feeds and strengthens your lawn against heat and drought. This product is guaranteed not to burn your lawn and also kills and protects against listed bugs. The insect control feature provides additional peace of mind, ensuring a healthy and pest-free lawn.

    However, this product may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin, as it contains certain chemicals.

    • Brand:Scotts
    • Type:Granular Fertilizer
    • Size/Capacity:13.35 lbs
    • Material:Nitrogen-based
    • Power/Speed:N/A
    • Count:N/A
    • Additional Feature:Feeds and strengthens lawn
    • Additional Feature:Kills and protects against bugs
  4. St. Augustine Grass Fertilizer

    St. Augustine Grass Fertilizer

    Fast-Absorbing Lawn Food

    View on Amazon

    This liquid fertilizer is specifically designed for St. Augustine grass and provides fast-absorbing nutrients for quick results. The high-nitrogen formula promotes healthy growth and a rich green color, while the easy mix and feed design makes application simple. This product is also made in the USA, ensuring a high level of quality.

    However, this product may not be suitable for those with large lawns, as it has a relatively small coverage area.

    • Brand:N/A
    • Type:Liquid Fertilizer
    • Size/Capacity:8 oz
    • Material:Nitrogen-based
    • Power/Speed:N/A
    • Count:N/A
    • Additional Feature:Supports root growth
    • Additional Feature:Promotes rich green color
  5. Sunniland St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer

    Sunniland St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer

    Balanced Lawn Nutrition 2

    View on Amazon

    This slow-release nitrogen granular lawn food is specifically designed for St. Augustine grass and provides balanced nutrition for healthy growth and color. The 20-0-6 nutrient formula promotes strong turf development and maintains lawn health without added phosphorus. This product is also phosphorus-free, making it a great option for those with concerns about phosphorus in their fertilizer.

    However, this product may not be suitable for those seeking a more targeted or precise fertilizer.

    • Brand:Sunniland
    • Type:Granular Fertilizer
    • Size/Capacity:20 lb
    • Material:Nitrogen-based
    • Power/Speed:N/A
    • Count:N/A
    • Additional Feature:Covers up to 5,000 sq ft
    • Additional Feature:Easy-to-spread granules
  6. Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food

    Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food

    Strong Root Growth

    View on Amazon

    Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food is a comprehensive lawn care product that feeds and strengthens your grass to help protect against future problems. This product builds strong, deep roots and improves your lawn's ability to absorb water and nutrients. With its pesticide-free formula, you can trust that your lawn is safe and healthy.

    However, this product may not be suitable for those with specific lawn care needs, as it has a more general formula.

    • Brand:Scotts
    • Type:Granular Fertilizer
    • Size/Capacity:12.5 lbs
    • Material:NPK-based
    • Power/Speed:N/A
    • Count:N/A
    • Additional Feature:Feeds and strengthens lawn
    • Additional Feature:Suitable for all grass types
  7. SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer

    SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn Fertilizer

    High-Nitrogen Formula

    View on Amazon

    This fertilizer is specifically designed for St. Augustine lawns and provides high-nitrogen formula for healthy growth and color. The 6% iron content promotes excellent greening and helps to maintain a lush, vibrant lawn. With its 50-lb capacity, this product is suitable for larger lawns and provides 12,000 sq ft coverage.

    However, this product may not be suitable for those with specific lawn care needs, as it has a more general formula.

    • Brand:SeedRanch
    • Type:Granular Fertilizer
    • Size/Capacity:50 lbs
    • Material:Nitrogen-based
    • Power/Speed:N/A
    • Count:N/A
    • Additional Feature:Suitable for St. Augustine lawns
    • Additional Feature:Promotes excellent greening

Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Summer Fertilizers For St Augustine Grass

NPK Ratio

When selecting a fertilizer for your St Augustine grass, the NPK ratio is one of the most critical factors to consider. This ratio refers to the proportion of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the fertilizer. A balanced NPK ratio for St Augustine grass is 10-10-10, although some products may have varying ratios depending on your specific needs. Some fertilizers are formulated with a higher nitrogen content, which promotes healthy leaf growth and green color, while others may have a higher phosphorus content, which encourages root development and overall plant health. Consider the specific needs of your lawn when choosing a fertilizer, and make sure to follow the recommended application rates to avoid over-fertilizing.

Active Ingredients

In addition to the NPK ratio, you should also consider the active ingredients in the fertilizer. These may include micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and sulfur, as well as other additives that enhance the product's effectiveness. Look for fertilizers that contain slow-release nitrogen, which provides a steady supply of nutrients to your grass over an extended period. Some fertilizers may also contain weed and feed ingredients, which control weeds while also promoting healthy grass growth. Be cautious when using these products, as they can sometimes cause more harm than good if not used correctly. Always follow the instructions on the label and take necessary precautions to avoid damaging your lawn.

Application Method

Another key factor to consider is the application method of the fertilizer. Some products come in the form of granules, which can be broadcast over the lawn using a spreader. Others may be liquid fertilizers, which can be applied using a sprayer or hose-end applicator. Consider the convenience and ease of use when choosing an application method. If you have a large lawn or prefer a more hands-off approach, a granular fertilizer may be the better choice. On the other hand, a liquid fertilizer may be more suitable for smaller lawns or areas with complex irrigation systems.

pH Level

Fertilizers can have a significant impact on the pH level of your soil, which can affect the overall health and growth of your St Augustine grass. A pH level that is too high or too low can cause nutrient deficiencies and other problems. Look for fertilizers that are specifically formulated for sour or alkaline soils, if necessary. Some fertilizers may also contain pH-adjusting ingredients, which help to balance the soil pH and promote healthy growth. Always follow the instructions on the label and take necessary precautions to avoid damaging your lawn.

Environmental Impact

As a homeowner, you may also want to consider the environmental impact of the fertilizer you choose. Some products may contain harmful chemicals or byproducts that can contaminate soil and waterways. Look for fertilizers that are labeled as eco-friendly or organic, which are generally safer for the environment. Additionally, consider the lifespan of the fertilizer and whether it is biodegradable. This can help reduce waste and minimize the risk of environmental harm.

Brand Reputation

Finally, consider the reputation of the manufacturer and the quality of their products. Look for brands that have a long history of producing high-quality fertilizers and have a good track record of customer satisfaction. Some manufacturers may also offer guarantees or warranties on their products, which can provide added peace of mind and protection for your investment. Always research the manufacturer and read reviews from other customers before making a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to apply fertilizer to St Augustine grass in the summer?

When it comes to fertilizing St Augustine grass in the summer, timing is crucial. The best time to apply fertilizer is during the growing season, typically from late spring to early fall. Applying fertilizer during this period helps promote healthy growth and green color. You can apply a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) once a month.

How often should I fertilize my St Augustine grass in the summer?

Fertilizing your St Augustine grass too frequently can lead to burned lawns. To avoid this, apply a fertilizer once a month during the growing season. However, if your lawn is under stress due to extreme weather conditions or pests, you may need to apply a fertilizer more frequently. It's essential to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and to avoid over-fertilizing.

Can I use a weed and feed fertilizer on my St Augustine grass in the summer?

While it may be tempting to use a weed and feed fertilizer to control weeds and fertilize your lawn at the same time, I would advise against it. Weed and feed fertilizers can be too harsh for St Augustine grass, causing burn spots and uneven growth. Instead, use a separate fertilizer specifically formulated for St Augustine grass, and apply a weed killer separately to control weeds.

What is the difference between a slow-release and quick-release fertilizer?

The main difference between a slow-release and quick-release fertilizer is how they release their nutrients into the soil. Slow-release fertilizers release nutrients over a longer period, typically 4-6 weeks, while quick-release fertilizers release nutrients quickly, often within 1-2 weeks. Slow-release fertilizers are generally better for St Augustine grass, as they provide a more consistent supply of nutrients.

Can I use a fertilizer with high nitrogen content on my St Augustine grass in the summer?

Using a fertilizer with high nitrogen content on your St Augustine grass in the summer can lead to excessive growth, which can make your lawn more susceptible to pests and diseases. Instead, look for a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 15-0-15 (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium). These fertilizers provide a more balanced supply of nutrients, promoting healthy growth and disease resistance.

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