Fertilizing your lawn at the right time can make all the difference in transforming it into a vibrant green space. The best months to fertilize in North Texas are May and September, but there are a few exceptions. In this article, we’ll tell you everything about the ideal fertilization schedule in the region.
For the purposes of this article, we’re considering the Panhandle as part of North Texas, given the similarities in climate. However, if you want to know more about the timing for other parts of the state, check out our article: “When to Fertilize Your Lawn in Texas.”
Best time to fertilize your lawn in North Texas
In North Texas, the best time to fertilize depends on the type of grass you have (read more about them in our guide: “The Best Grass for North Texas Lawns”):
- For cool-season grasses like perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass, fall is the ideal time to fertilize. However, if a soil test recommends it or you missed the window, you can make an application in spring.
- Warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda, Zoysia, and buffalograss, on the other hand, are best fertilized in spring. You can also make a second application in fall, and, in some cases, even during summer if needed.
Let’s take a more detailed look at it:
Spring fertilization
Spring is the best time to fertilize warm-season grasses in North Texas, but the exact timing will depend on your location. Fertilizing should be done about six weeks after the last spring frost, and since that date varies by city, the timing will too:
- In North Texas cities like Dallas, Fort Worth, and Plano, plan your first nitrogen application for around May 1, as the last frost usually happens around March 16.
- For cities further north in the Panhandle, such as Amarillo, you may need to wait until June 1, since the last frost happens around April 15.
To be sure, follow this rule of thumb: Only fertilize your lawn after you’ve mowed it two or three times, ensuring your grass has left dormancy and is actively growing.
Pro Tip: Spring is also a great time to plant new grass seeds in your lawn. You can read our guide — “The Best Time to Plant Grass Seed in Texas” — for more information.
Summer fertilization
Summer fertilization can be beneficial if you have a newly established lawn or if it has been previously neglected. However, it’s important to space your applications at least 45 to 60 days apart and opt for slow-release nitrogen fertilizers to avoid rapid growth.
Keep in mind, though, that cool-season grasses should not be fertilized during summer, as this is when they enter their dormant stage. Applying fertilizer during this time risks burning the grass and causing more harm than good, unless it’s late summer in the Panhandle (August).
Note: For more information on slow-release fertilizers and fertilizers in general, check out our article: “The Best Lawn Fertilizers for Texas.”
Fall fertilization
Fertilizing in the fall helps increase the density of your lawn, improves its color, and makes it more resistant to winter weeds. It is the best time to fertilize cool-season grasses. It’s recommended to fertilize up until six weeks before the first winter frost, though the timing will vary depending on where you live:
- In cities like Dallas, Carrollton, and The Colony, you can fertilize in September, up until around October 1, as the first frost usually occurs around November 16.
- For cities in the Panhandle, like Amarillo, aim for late summer/early fall fertilization up until September 15, since the first frost happens around November 1.
Note: Fall is also a good time to aerate and dethatch your lawn if you have cool-season grasses. Check out these articles for more information:
More Texas resources
Caring for your lawn in North Texas is just one piece of the puzzle. Take a look at these helpful resources to help you maintain a healthy yard across the state:
- The Most Common Weeds in North Texas
- Bermudagrass Maintenance Calendar for Texas
- Zoysiagrass Maintenance Calendar for Texas
- St. Augustinegrass Maintenance Calendar for Texas
Call a professional
Fertilizing your lawn at the right time can make a big difference, but you don’t have to handle it all yourself. If figuring out timing and details seems overwhelming, call a local lawn care professional. We have pros in Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, and other North Texas cities who can take care of everything while you enjoy a beautiful lawn year-round.
Main Image Credit: New Africa | Adobe Stock | License
Related Posts:
