Fertilizer for Bermuda Grass: NPK Guide and Application Rates
Bermuda Grass is an aggressive warm-season lawn grass that thrives in southern climates with full sun and heat. It is one of the heaviest-feeding lawn grasses, requiring 3-5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet annually. Proper fertilizing timing is critical: feed only during active summer growth and stop before fall dormancy.
Quick Reference
What NPK Ratio is Best for Bermuda Grass?
The recommended NPK ratio for bermuda grass is 16-4-8. The nitrogen-forward 16-4-8 ratio drives leaf and stem development, which bermuda grass need for photosynthesis and canopy growth.
Bermuda Grass NPK needs shift at each growth stage. Starter fertilizer with high phosphorus for new sod or seed establishment during the Seedling phase, then n/a for lawn use; maintain standard ratio once flowering begins.
NPK by Growth Stage for Bermuda Grass
| Growth Stage | NPK Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seedling | 18N 24P 12K N 18% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 24% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 12% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Starter fertilizer with high phosphorus for new sod or seed establishment |
| Vegetative | 16N 4P 8K N 16% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 4% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 8% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | High nitrogen with moderate potassium for active summer growth |
| Flowering | 16N 4P 8K N 16% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 4% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 8% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | N/A for lawn use; maintain standard ratio |
| Fruiting | 5N 10P 15K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 15% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Fall winterizer with high potassium for cold hardiness |
When Should You Fertilize Bermuda Grass?
In zone 7, start fertilizing bermuda grass in May. In zone 10, begin as early as March. Apply every 6 weeks through the growing season.
Which Zones Can Grow Bermuda Grass?
Bermuda Grass grows in USDA zones 7 through 10, spanning a 4-zone range.
Fertilization Start by Zone
| Zone | Start Month |
|---|---|
| Zone 7 | May |
| Zone 8 | April |
| Zone 9 | March |
| Zone 10 | March |
What Are the Best Fertilizer Products for Bermuda Grass?
Look for products with an NPK close to 16-4-8. Scotts Turf Builder Southern is the most popular choice among home gardeners for bermuda grass.
- Scotts Turf Builder Southern
- Pennington UltraGreen
- Milorganite Organic Nitrogen
- Lesco 16-4-8
Prices vary by retailer and region. Check current pricing before purchasing.
Common Fertilizing Mistakes with Bermuda Grass
- Fertilizing too early in spring before the grass is actively growing
- Exceeding 1 lb nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft per application, causing burn
- Neglecting potassium applications that improve drought and cold tolerance
- Continuing nitrogen applications into fall, which delays dormancy and increases winter damage
- Not soil testing and applying unnecessary phosphorus
Tips for Fertilizing Bermuda Grass
- Apply 1 lb of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft every 6-8 weeks during active growth
- Begin fertilizing only after the lawn is fully green and actively growing in spring
- Total annual nitrogen should be 3-5 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for maintained bermuda
- Apply a winterizer with potassium in early fall before dormancy
- Soil test every 2-3 years to calibrate phosphorus and potassium applications
Organic Fertilizer Alternatives for Bermuda Grass
Sources
Source:Penn State ExtensionLast updated: