Jacksonville Lawn Care Calendar — Month-by-Month Guide for 2026

After maintaining lawns throughout Northeast Florida for over a decade, I've learned that timing is everything when it comes to lawn care in Jacksonville. Our unique climate—with mild winters, hot humid summers, and distinct wet and dry seasons—requires a strategic approach that many generic lawn care guides simply don't address.

Whether you have St. Augustine grass in Ponte Vedra, Zoysia in Mandarin, or Bermuda grass near NAS Jax, this detailed calendar will help you maintain a beautiful, healthy lawn year-round while working with, not against, Jacksonville's climate patterns.

Understanding Jacksonville's Climate Zones and Grass Types

Climate Considerations for 2026

Jacksonville sits in USDA Hardiness Zones 9a and 9b, with average winter lows rarely dropping below 25°F. Our growing season typically runs from March through October, with peak growth during the hot, humid summer months.

Key Climate Factors:

• Rainfall patterns: Wet season (June-September), dry season (October-May)
• Temperature extremes: Summer highs in the 90s, winter lows occasionally in the 20s
• Humidity: High year-round, affecting disease pressure and watering needs
• Storm season: Hurricane season runs June 1 - November 30

Grass Types and Their Characteristics

St. Augustine: Most popular in Jacksonville, thrives in heat and humidity, moderate shade tolerance Zoysia: Heat and drought tolerant, slower establishment, excellent durability Bermuda: Extremely heat tolerant, full sun requirement, goes dormant in winter

January 2026: Planning and Preparation

Weather Expectations

January typically brings our coolest weather, with average highs around 65°F and lows near 45°F. Frost is possible, especially in northern Duval County areas like Fernandina Beach and Callahan.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Mowing: Maintain dormant grass at 3-4 inches if growth occurs
• Watering: Minimal—only if extended dry period (7+ days without rain)
• Fertilization: AVOID—grass is dormant and won't utilize nutrients
• Weed Control: Apply pre-emergent herbicide for summer annual weeds

Zoysia Grass Care

• Status: Fully dormant and brown
• Mowing: Only if winter weeds are present
• Watering: None needed unless extreme drought
• Preparation: Plan spring renovation projects

Bermuda Grass Care

• Status: Dormant and brown
• Maintenance: Remove debris and fallen leaves
• Planning: Excellent time for soil testing and planning improvements

January Action Items

1. Soil Testing: Send samples to UF/IFAS Extension for analysis
2. Equipment Maintenance: Service mowers, sharpen blades
3. Planning: Design any landscape changes or irrigation improvements
4. Weed Prevention: Apply pre-emergent in warm microclimates

Weather Watch: Monitor extended forecasts for potential freeze warnings affecting tender plants around lawn areas.

February 2026: Late Winter Preparation

Weather Expectations

February remains cool with average temperatures similar to January, but days begin lengthening noticeably. This is traditionally our driest month.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Dormancy: Still largely dormant, but may show signs of green-up in protected areas
• Pre-emergent: Apply crabgrass preventer if not done in January
• Edging: Clean up bed edges and walkway borders
• Debris Removal: Clear leaves and winter debris

Zoysia Grass Care

• Dormancy: Remains fully dormant
• Renovation: Ideal time for major projects like grading or irrigation work
• Weed Control: Spot-treat winter weeds like chickweed and henbit

Bermuda Grass Care

• Dormancy: Still dormant but beginning to prepare for spring growth
• Scalping: Late February scalping can help remove thatch (only if needed)
• Pre-emergent: Apply crabgrass preventer

February Action Items

1. Irrigation Check: Test and repair sprinkler systems before active season
2. Soil Amendments: Add organic matter to problem areas based on soil test results
3. Equipment Prep: Complete mower maintenance and blade sharpening
4. Planning: Finalize any sod replacement or renovation plans

March 2026: Spring Awakening

Weather Expectations

March brings the beginning of spring growth with warming temperatures and increased daylight. Average highs reach the mid-70s, with occasional warm spells into the 80s.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Green-up: Grass begins showing new green growth
• First Fertilization: Apply balanced fertilizer (16-4-8 or similar) when 50% green
• Watering: Begin light, deep watering if rainfall is insufficient
• Mowing: Start regular mowing schedule when growth begins (first cut at 3.5 inches)

Zoysia Grass Care

• Emergence: Very early green-up in warm microclimates
• Patience: Resist urge to over-fertilize dormant grass
• Preparation: Final soil amendments before active growth

Bermuda Grass Care

• Green-up: Begins around mid to late March
• Fertilization: Apply starter fertilizer when 25% green
• Mowing: Begin regular cutting when grass reaches 2 inches

March Action Items

1. Weed Management: Hand-pull winter weeds before they set seed
2. Fertilizer Application: First feeding of the year for actively growing grass
3. Watering Schedule: Establish spring irrigation routine
4. Disease Prevention: Ensure good air circulation, avoid overwatering

Spring Weather Advisory: March can bring late cold snaps—protect new growth if temperatures threaten to drop below 35°F.

April 2026: Full Spring Growth

Weather Expectations

April typically brings beautiful weather with warm days, cool nights, and moderate rainfall. This is one of the best months for outdoor activities and lawn care.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Active Growth: Rapid green-up and active growth begins
• Mowing: Weekly mowing at 3-3.5 inches
• Fertilization: Second application if using split spring program
• Watering: Deep, infrequent watering (1 inch per week including rainfall)
• Overseeding: Plug thin areas with St. Augustine plugs

Zoysia Grass Care

• Green-up: Full emergence by mid-April
• First Cut: When grass reaches 2.5 inches, cut to 1.5-2 inches
• Fertilization: Apply slow-release nitrogen fertilizer
• Renovation: Final window for major renovation projects

Bermuda Grass Care

• Full Activity: Complete green-up and active growth
• Aggressive Growth: May require twice-weekly mowing
• Fertilization: Regular feeding program begins
• Scalping: Final opportunity for scalping if needed

April Action Items

1. Sod Installation: Ideal time for new sod installation
2. Irrigation Adjustment: Fine-tune watering schedules based on grass response
3. Disease Monitoring: Watch for early signs of fungal issues
4. Weed Control: Post-emergent treatment for escaped winter weeds

May 2026: Peak Spring Conditions

Weather Expectations

May often provides ideal growing conditions with warm temperatures, adequate rainfall, and moderate humidity. This is typically the last month before summer stress begins.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Peak Growth: Maximum growth rate period
• Mowing: Weekly cutting, maintain 3-3.5 inch height
• Fertilization: Major spring fertilization if using single application
• Watering: Monitor closely—begin preparing for summer stress
• Pest Control: Watch for chinch bugs and other early season pests

Zoysia Grass Care

• Rapid Growth: Very active growth period
• Dense Coverage: Fills in thin areas quickly during this period
• Fertilization: Major spring feeding
• Mowing: Weekly cutting at 1.5-2 inches

Bermuda Grass Care

• Explosive Growth: Most aggressive growth period
• Frequent Cutting: Twice weekly may be necessary
• Fertilization: Continue regular feeding program
• Athletic Use: Grass can handle heavy traffic during this period

May Action Items

1. Summer Prep: Begin adjusting irrigation for increasing temperatures
2. Pest Prevention: Apply preventive treatments for grubs and other pests
3. Disease Prevention: Ensure proper mowing height and avoid over-fertilization
4. Equipment Check: Service equipment before heavy summer use

Heat Advisory: Late May can bring first taste of summer heat—adjust watering accordingly.

June 2026: Early Summer Transition

Weather Expectations

June marks the beginning of summer with increasing heat, humidity, and the start of rainy season. Afternoon thunderstorms become common.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Heat Stress: Begin monitoring for drought and heat stress
• Watering: Adjust to summer schedule—deep, less frequent watering
• Mowing: Raise cutting height slightly (3.5-4 inches) for heat tolerance
• Fertilization: Light feeding only—avoid heavy nitrogen in heat
• Disease Watch: Monitor for fungal diseases in humid conditions

Zoysia Grass Care

• Heat Tolerance: Generally handles heat better than St. Augustine
• Reduced Growth: Growth rate begins to slow in extreme heat
• Watering: Deep weekly watering during dry periods
• Mowing: Maintain 2-2.5 inches for better heat tolerance

Bermuda Grass Care

• Thriving: Peak performance period in full sun areas
• Aggressive Growth: Continues rapid growth in heat
• Water Needs: Surprisingly drought tolerant once established
• Sports Use: Excellent recovery from wear during this period

June Action Items

1. Irrigation Upgrade: Adjust timers for summer conditions
2. Shade Assessment: Monitor grass performance in shaded areas
3. Disease Prevention: Improve air circulation, avoid evening watering
4. Heat Stress Prep: Apply light organic matter to improve soil moisture retention

July 2026: Peak Summer Heat

Weather Expectations

July brings the year's hottest weather with average highs in the low 90s, high humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Heat stress becomes a major concern.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Stress Management: Focus on maintaining adequate moisture
• Mowing: Reduce frequency, raise height to 4 inches minimum
• Watering: Early morning deep watering (0.5-1 inch per week)
• Fertilization: NO fertilizer applications during extreme heat
• Pest Control: Monitor for chinch bugs, which are active in heat

Zoysia Grass Care

• Heat Endurance: Generally tolerates heat well
• Reduced Activity: Growth slows significantly
• Water Management: Deep watering every 5-7 days
• Mowing: Reduce frequency to minimize stress

Bermuda Grass Care

• Peak Performance: Thrives in heat and full sun
• Aggressive Growth: May still require frequent cutting
• Drought Tolerance: Best drought tolerance of the three grass types
• Recovery: Excellent recovery from summer stress

July Action Items

1. Heat Stress Monitoring: Daily visual inspections for stress signs
2. Irrigation Optimization: Ensure maximum water efficiency
3. Pest Control: Targeted treatments for active pest populations
4. Traffic Management: Reduce foot traffic on stressed areas

Critical Heat Period: July typically brings our most challenging weather—adjust all activities accordingly.

August 2026: Continued Summer Stress

Weather Expectations

August often equals or exceeds July's heat with continued high humidity. Rainfall can be variable—either abundant or severely lacking.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Continued Stress: Maintain stress management protocols
• Watering: Adjust based on rainfall patterns
• Mowing: Minimal cutting, maximum height
• Disease Risk: High fungal disease pressure from heat and humidity
• Recovery Prep: Begin planning fall renovation

Zoysia Grass Care

• Endurance Mode: Continues heat tolerance performance
• Maintenance: Minimal intervention during peak stress
• Planning: Identify areas needing fall attention

Bermuda Grass Care

• Still Thriving: Continues active growth in full sun
• Stress Areas: Monitor shaded or poorly drained areas
• Traffic Tolerance: Maintains good wear tolerance

August Action Items

1. Disease Management: Preventive fungicide applications if needed
2. Irrigation Efficiency: Check and repair any system issues
3. Fall Planning: Order sod or materials for fall projects
4. Stress Documentation: Note problem areas for fall correction

September 2026: Late Summer Recovery

Weather Expectations

September often brings relief with slightly cooler temperatures and more consistent rainfall. This is typically the beginning of the fall recovery period.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Recovery Begins: Grass begins showing improved vigor
• Fertilization: Light fall fertilizer application
• Overseeding: Begin planning fall renovation projects
• Watering: Adjust as rainfall typically increases
• Disease Prevention: Continue monitoring in humid conditions

Zoysia Grass Care

• Renewed Growth: Begins showing increased activity
• Fertilization: Fall fertilizer application
• Renovation: Good time for renovation projects
• Preparation: Begin planning winter preparations

Bermuda Grass Care

• Continued Growth: Still actively growing
• Fertilization: Important fall feeding
• Renovation: Window for overseeding or renovation

September Action Items

1. Fall Fertilization: First fall fertilizer application
2. Renovation Planning: Schedule fall sod installation or renovation
3. Irrigation Adjustment: Reduce frequency as temperatures moderate
4. Weed Prevention: Apply pre-emergent for winter annual weeds

October 2026: Fall Recovery Peak

Weather Expectations

October typically brings some of Jacksonville's best weather with moderate temperatures, lower humidity, and beautiful clear days. This is prime time for outdoor activities and lawn care.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Peak Recovery: Maximum growth and recovery period
• Fertilization: Major fall fertilization with potassium emphasis
• Renovation: Prime time for sod installation and repair
• Watering: Reduced irrigation needs
• Winter Prep: Begin preparing for dormancy period

Zoysia Grass Care

• Active Growth: Strong growth period before dormancy
• Fertilization: Final major feeding of the year
• Renovation: Excellent conditions for new installation
• Thickening: Grass fills in thin areas rapidly

Bermuda Grass Care

• Continued Activity: Still actively growing
• Fertilization: Continue regular feeding
• Renovation: Last opportunity for major projects
• Preparation: Begin planning winter dormancy period

October Action Items

1. Major Renovation: Prime time for sod installation and major repairs
2. Fall Fertilization: Most important fertilizer application of the year
3. Irrigation Reduction: Significantly reduce watering frequency
4. Equipment Maintenance: Prepare equipment for winter storage

Prime Growing Season: October offers ideal conditions for lawn renovation and new installations.

November 2026: Transition to Dormancy

Weather Expectations

November brings cooler temperatures with occasional cold fronts. This is typically our second driest month after February.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Slowing Growth: Growth rate decreases significantly
• Final Mowing: Last regular cutting of the year
• Watering: Minimal irrigation needed
• Winter Prep: Apply final fertilization if needed
• Cleanup: Remove fallen leaves and debris

Zoysia Grass Care

• Color Change: Begins transitioning to dormant color
• Growth Cessation: Active growth essentially stops
• Fertilization: Final light application if needed
• Winter Prep: Prepare for dormant season

Bermuda Grass Care

• Dormancy Preparation: Begins slowing significantly
• Final Care: Last fertilization and mowing
• Winter Prep: Prepare for complete dormancy

November Action Items

1. Final Fertilization: Last feeding of the year (potassium emphasis)
2. Equipment Storage: Clean and store lawn care equipment
3. Irrigation Shutdown: Significantly reduce or stop irrigation
4. Debris Removal: Keep grass clear of fallen leaves

December 2026: Winter Dormancy

Weather Expectations

December brings our coolest weather with potential for frost, especially in northern areas. Growth essentially stops for most grass types.

St. Augustine Grass Care

• Dormancy: Enters dormant period
• Mowing: Only if absolutely necessary
• Watering: Minimal—only during extended dry periods
• Protection: Protect from foot traffic when possible

Zoysia Grass Care

• Full Dormancy: Completely dormant and brown
• Maintenance: Remove debris only
• Protection: Avoid traffic on frozen grass

Bermuda Grass Care

• Complete Dormancy: Fully dormant and brown
• Minimal Care: Remove debris, avoid unnecessary traffic

December Action Items

1. Year-End Assessment: Evaluate year's successes and challenges
2. Planning: Begin planning next year's improvements
3. Equipment Maintenance: Annual equipment service
4. Education: Research new techniques and products for next year

Grass-Specific Annual Summaries

St. Augustine Grass Annual Program

• Fertilizations: 3-4 times per year (March, May/June, September/October)
• Peak Care Months: April, May, September, October
• Stress Periods: July, August
• Dormant Period: December-February

Zoysia Grass Annual Program

• Fertilizations: 2-3 times per year (April, July, September)
• Peak Care Months: April, May, September, October
• Heat Tolerance: Excellent (July-August)
• Dormant Period: November-March

Bermuda Grass Annual Program

• Fertilizations: 4-6 times per year (March through September)
• Peak Growth: May through September
• Heat Tolerance: Superior
• Dormant Period: December-February

Professional Lawn Care vs. DIY Considerations

When to Consider Professional Help

Complex Problems: Disease issues, severe pest infestations, or major renovation needs Time Constraints: Busy schedules that don't allow for regular maintenance Equipment Needs: Specialized equipment for fertilization or pest control Knowledge Gaps: Uncertainty about proper timing or product selection

DIY Success Factors

Consistent Schedule: Regular attention throughout the growing season Quality Products: Using appropriate fertilizers and pest control products Proper Timing: Following climate-appropriate schedules Patience: Understanding that lawn improvement takes time

Working with Jacksonville's Professional Lawn Care Services

Choosing the Right Partner

When selecting professional lawn care services, look for companies that understand Jacksonville's unique challenges:

• Local Knowledge: Understanding of our specific grass types and climate
• Integrated Approach: Coordination between lawn care and landscape services
• Quality Installation: Proper sod installation techniques for long-term success
• Ongoing Support: Maintenance services that align with your lawn's needs

At Jax Sod, we understand that a beautiful lawn is just one component of a stunning landscape. Our comprehensive approach means we can help you maintain not just healthy grass, but also coordinate your lawn care with landscape plantings, irrigation systems, and seasonal maintenance needs.

Whether you're looking for expert sod installation, ongoing maintenance services, or simply professional advice on managing your specific grass type, our team brings decades of experience working specifically with Northeast Florida's climate and conditions.

Don't let Jacksonville's unique climate challenges overwhelm your lawn care efforts. Contact Jax Sod today to discuss how we can help you maintain a beautiful, healthy lawn year-round.

Ready to achieve the perfect Jacksonville lawn? Contact Jax Sod for expert installation, maintenance, and advice tailored specifically to Northeast Florida's climate and your property's unique needs.