When to Fertilize in a Warm Climate

Lawn

• Generally, the best time to fertilize your lawn is during or just before active growth periods. In warm climates, you should apply fertilizer in early and late summer, or as soon as early spring. A high-nitrogen application is best for most grasses, but the best fertilizer for your grass will vary. Avoid fertilizing too late in the year, when your grass will soon be entering a slow growth period. Fertilizer applied during this time will likely go to waste. The grass should receive more fertilizer during its spring application than in later applications. Apply fertilizer about every six weeks.

Other Factors

• In warm climates, fertilize your vegetable garden from spring to late summer or whenever plants are actively growing. Many plants should receive less fertilizer starting in fall, which encourages them to stop blooming as days grow shorter. Begin fertilizing once more when plants resume active growth in spring. The schedule may be different for cool season vegetables, which still actively grow during the winter. Most vegetables benefit from a combination fertilizer of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Environmental Factors

• Fertilizing isn't just a matter of a calendar date and climate zone. You should pay attention to environmental changes and adjust your schedule accordingly. Excessively cool and wet weather demands more fertilizing because nitrogen is apt to flow away in these conditions. Hot, dry weather is not good for fertilizing because grass tends to go dormant during such times.

Other Considerations

• The fertilizer you use can also have an effect on your outcome. Chemical fertilizers are riskier because they have more potential to burn the leaves of your plants, especially when used at the wrong time. Use organic fertilizer, such as manure, fish emulsion, seaweed, or other nitrogen-rich plants instead. Always use a diluted formula and water thoroughly after applying. If applying a slow-release fertilizer, fewer applications may be needed.