Florida Lawn Care

Florida’s warm, humid climate (USDA Zones 8 through 11) means lawns grow nearly year-round — which is both a blessing and a challenge. The state’s sandy soils drain quickly but hold few nutrients, while heavy summer rainfall and high humidity create ideal conditions for fungal diseases, weeds, and pests. Northern Florida experiences brief cool spells, while South Florida is essentially tropical.

St. Augustine grass dominates Florida lawns thanks to its shade tolerance and love of warm, humid conditions. Bahia grass is popular for its low-maintenance nature and drought tolerance, especially in North and Central Florida. Zoysia offers a finer texture and moderate shade tolerance, while Bermuda grass works well in full-sun, high-traffic areas. Choosing the right variety for your specific zone and sun exposure is the single biggest decision you’ll make.

Florida’s key lawn care challenges include managing sandy, nutrient-poor soils, controlling aggressive weeds like dollarweed and torpedograss, and staying ahead of chinch bugs, sod webworms, and fungal outbreaks like gray leaf spot and brown patch. Proper irrigation — typically 3/4 inch twice per week during the growing season — combined with slow-release fertilizers and regular pest scouting keeps most Florida lawns healthy and green.

With consistent seasonal care and the right grass choice, a lush Florida lawn is well within reach despite the state’s demanding growing conditions.

Seasonal Tips

Spring (March – May)

• Apply pre-emergent herbicide in early March for summer weed prevention
• Begin regular fertilization with a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer
• Start mowing at recommended heights: St. Augustine at 3.5–4 inches, Bermuda at 1–1.5 inches

Summer (June – August)

• Water early morning, 2–3 times per week, adjusting for heavy afternoon rains
• Monitor closely for chinch bugs and sod webworms — treat at first signs
• Watch for gray leaf spot and brown patch in humid conditions; improve air circulation

Fall (September – November)

• Apply potassium-rich fertilizer to strengthen roots before winter
• Reduce mowing frequency as growth slows
• Treat any lingering pest or disease issues before cooler weather

Winter (December – February)

• Reduce watering significantly; most grasses enter semi-dormancy in North Florida
• Avoid heavy fertilization — a light winterizer application in early December is sufficient
• Control winter weeds and plan spring care strategy

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