Fertilizing and Caring for Bermuda and Fescue Grass

Disclaimer - follow the instructions on the product if not using a service provider. There's a lot more involved than what is mentioned below.

As a homeowner, maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn is an important part of keeping your property looking its best. Two of the most popular types of grass used for lawns in North Carolina are Bermuda and fescue grasses. While both types of grass have their own unique benefits and challenges, they also have specific fertilizing and pre-emergent needs that must be addressed in order to maintain a healthy and vibrant lawn.

Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that thrives in hot and humid climates. It is known for its durability and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it a popular choice for sports fields and golf courses. According to the NC Agriculture guidelines, Bermuda grass requires a high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote healthy growth and a deep green color. It is recommended to apply a slow-release fertilizer in the early spring, followed by two to three additional applications throughout the growing season. Pre-emergent herbicides should be applied in the late winter or early spring to prevent crabgrass and other weeds from taking over the lawn.

Fescue grass, on the other hand, is a cool-season grass that thrives in cooler climates. It is known for its ability to maintain its color and texture throughout the year, making it a popular choice for residential lawns. Fescue grass requires a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is recommended to apply fertilizer in the early fall, followed by a second application in the late winter or early spring. Pre-emergent herbicides should be applied in the late winter or early spring to prevent crabgrass and other weeds from taking over the lawn.

In addition to regular fertilization and pre-emergent treatments, Bermuda and fescue grasses may also require iron applications to maintain their color and texture. Iron is an essential nutrient for grass growth and can help improve the overall health and appearance of your lawn. If you notice yellowing or discoloration in your lawn, it may be a sign that your grass is lacking iron. Consider adding an iron supplement to your lawn care routine to keep your grass looking its best.

When it comes to purchasing fertilizers, pre-emergent herbicides, and iron supplements, there are many options available on Amazon. Here are a few products to consider:

DYI options / examples:
* Low-Nitrogen Fertilizer (Balanced + Iron)
* Medium Nitrogen Fertilizer + PreEmergent (No Iron)
* Iron only, no fertilizer or weed blocking

CleanYardCare can apply the correct amounts come Spring & Fall as well as mid summer if using PreEmergent .By mid-summer the early spring pre-emergent weed blocking would be spent and need to be applied again. If a yard is subject to nitrogen burn due to low rain/water or high heat then need to adjust applications. Also if lots of rain and grass is growing rapidly then more nitrogen would cause a jungle of a lawn.  Maybe just iron + weed blocking would be better. 

Service charge est. $60 @ 5000sqft lawn ideally  Mar/April then July then Oct for Fescue/Zoysia. Small price to pay when neighbors or vacant lots all around may have weeds blowing seeds everywhere. * Do pull weeds often every stop especially if able to keep ahead of weed outbreak.

Weed removal is different case by case but blocking new growth is included in above service or whatever is agreed upon.

By following a regular fertilization, pre-emergent, and iron supplement schedule, you can ensure that your Bermuda or fescue grass lawn stays healthy and vibrant year-round. Regular maintenance and care will help prevent weeds, pests, and diseases from taking over your lawn, ensuring that your property remains the envy of the neighborhood.