St. Augustine Maintenance
Taking good care of your lawn often requires no more work overall than taking
poor care of it. A lawn that is properly mowed, fertilized and watered has
far fewer problems with weeds, diseases and insects. A well kept lawn also
remains dense and attractive, providing you much more enjoyment and
environmental benefits.
WATER NEEDS:
Moderate to high, thrives on wet sites - apply 0.5 to 1 inch of water as a deep
soaking every 3 to 6 days to encourage a deep, healthy root system during dry or
hot periods. Avoid frequent, shallow watering that results in shallow
roots, permitting weed germination and growth.
MOWING & THATCHING:
Optimum mowing height 2-3 inches for a high quality lawn, mow too low and weeds
are likely to gain a foothold. Mow regularly with a sharp rotary or reel
mower, allowing clippings from frequent mowing to remain of the lawn.
Never remove more than 1/3 of the shoot growth at one mowing. A mild
vertical cutting may be needed during the warmer months on a vigorous turf that
has received high nitrogen fertilization.
SOIL & FERTILIZER NEEDS:
Fertilize twice a year, spring and fall, with a complete fertilizer containing
nitrogen, phosphate and potassium. May also apply 2 to 3 summer
applications of nitrogen fertilizer, using 1 lb. nitrogen per 1,000 sq.
ft. Apply nitrogen at 2 to 6 lbs. per 1,000 sq. ft. per year. Too
high a rate of nitrogen fertilization can increase thatch build-up, encourage
chinch bugs and brown patch damage.
DISEASE, WEED & INSECT CONTROL:
A well-maintained turf will provide the best weed control. Some varieties
are resistant or tolerant of chinch bugs and to the St. Augustine decline (SAD)
virus. Most fungal diseases of St. Augustine grass can be controlled with
fungicides.
All information is based on average/normal conditions; individual sites and
situations may differ. Therefore, contact your local nurseryman if more
detailed information is needed on specific maintenance questions.
"Making
Texas Beautiful" 
