Quick Answer
Jacksonville lawns require different care throughout the year: Spring (March-May) focuses on fertilization, pre-emergent weed control, and irrigation system checks; Summer (June-August) emphasizes proper mowing, pest control, and consistent watering; Fall (September-November) requires different fertilization, overseeding considerations, and preparation for cooler weather; Winter (December-February) involves reduced watering, winter weed management, and equipment maintenance. Following this seasonal approach helps maintain a healthy lawn year-round in Jacksonville's unique climate.
Introduction
Jacksonville's unique climate—characterized by hot, humid summers, mild winters, and a long growing season—creates specific lawn care requirements that differ from other parts of the country. By following a seasonal lawn care calendar tailored to Northeast Florida's conditions, homeowners can maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn year-round while minimizing problems with pests, diseases, and environmental stressors.
This comprehensive guide breaks down essential lawn care tasks by season and month, providing Jacksonville homeowners with a clear roadmap for annual lawn maintenance. Whether you have St. Augustine, Zoysia, Bermuda, or Bahia grass, this calendar will help you time your lawn care activities for maximum effectiveness and efficiency.
Spring Lawn Care (March-May)
Spring is a critical time for Jacksonville lawns as they emerge from winter dormancy and enter their primary growing season. Proper spring care sets the foundation for a healthy lawn throughout the year.
March
Soil Testing
- Conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient needs
- Jacksonville soils are typically sandy and may require specific amendments
- Local extension offices offer affordable soil testing services
- Inspect and repair irrigation systems before the dry season
- Check for leaks, broken heads, and proper coverage
- Adjust timers for spring watering requirements (typically 2 times per week)
- Resume regular mowing as growth accelerates
- For St. Augustine: Set mower height to 3.5-4 inches
- For Bermuda: Set mower height to 1-1.5 inches
- For Zoysia: Set mower height to 1.5-2.5 inches
- Ensure mower blades are sharp for clean cuts
April
Fertilization
- Apply spring fertilizer with appropriate N-P-K ratio based on soil test
- For St. Augustine: Use a 15-0-15 or similar fertilizer with iron
- For Bermuda and Zoysia: Apply a 16-4-8 fertilizer
- Follow Florida-Friendly fertilization guidelines and local ordinances
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide to prevent summer annual weeds
- Spot-treat existing broadleaf weeds
- Hand-remove isolated weed patches
- Check thatch layer thickness (should be less than 1/2 inch)
- For Bermuda and Zoysia: Consider dethatching if thatch is excessive
- For St. Augustine: Avoid mechanical dethatching; use biological methods
May
Pest Monitoring
- Begin regular inspections for chinch bugs in St. Augustine
- Check for mole crickets in Bermuda and Bahia lawns
- Look for brown patch fungus, especially in shaded areas
- Treat problems early before they spread
- Adjust irrigation as temperatures increase
- Water deeply (3/4 inch) but infrequently (2-3 times per week)
- Water in early morning (before 10 AM) to reduce disease risk
- Apply second round of fertilizer if needed based on growth and color
- Use slow-release nitrogen sources for extended feeding
Summer Lawn Care (June-August)
Summer brings intense heat, humidity, and frequent rainfall to Jacksonville, creating both opportunities and challenges for lawn care.
June
Mowing Practices
- Maintain proper mowing height for your grass type
- Follow the "one-third rule" (never remove more than 1/3 of blade height)
- Consider raising mowing height slightly during peak summer heat
- Leave clippings on the lawn to return nutrients to soil
- Continue monitoring for chinch bugs, especially in sunny areas
- Check for armyworms and sod webworms after heavy rains
- Treat affected areas with appropriate insecticides if damage is evident
- Adjust irrigation to account for summer rainfall
- Install a rain sensor if you don't already have one
- Skip irrigation after receiving 1/2 inch or more of rain
July
Fertilization Considerations
- Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers during peak summer heat
- If needed, apply iron supplements to enhance greening without pushing growth
- Follow water restrictions and fertilizer ordinances
- Watch for signs of take-all root rot and gray leaf spot
- Improve air circulation in problem areas
- Avoid evening watering which promotes fungal growth
- Spot-treat persistent weeds with herbicides appropriate for your grass type
- Apply herbicides in early morning for best results
- Be cautious with herbicides during extreme heat (above 85°F)
August
Stress Management
- Monitor for signs of drought stress despite summer rains
- Address compacted soil areas with liquid aerification products
- Reduce traffic on stressed areas of the lawn
- Final check for chinch bugs before fall
- Monitor for tropical sod webworms which peak in late summer
- Check perimeter of property for invasive grasses
- Evaluate overall lawn condition and plan fall renovation strategies
- Address persistent problem areas
- Consider soil amendments for fall application
Fall Lawn Care (September-November)
Fall in Jacksonville is still warm enough for significant growth while preparing the lawn for winter.
September
Fertilization
- Apply fall fertilizer with appropriate N-P-K ratio
- Reduce nitrogen and increase potassium to enhance winter hardiness
- For St. Augustine: Use a 10-0-20 or similar winterizing formula
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide to prevent winter annual weeds
- Target areas prone to winter weed pressure
- Follow application instructions carefully
- For Bermuda lawns: Consider overseeding with ryegrass for winter color
- Note: Not recommended for St. Augustine lawns
- Prepare areas for overseeding by mowing slightly lower
October
Irrigation Adjustment
- Reduce watering frequency as temperatures cool
- Adjust irrigation timers for fall watering schedules
- Prepare for potential water restrictions during dry fall periods
- Gradually lower mowing height slightly to prepare for winter
- For St. Augustine: No lower than 3 inches
- For Bermuda: No lower than 1 inch
- For Zoysia: No lower than 1.5 inches
- Apply compost top-dressing to thin or weak areas
- Consider soil amendments based on soil test results
- Address drainage issues before winter rains
November
Final Fertilization
- Apply final winterizing fertilizer if needed
- Focus on potassium for root strength and cold tolerance
- Follow package directions for winter application rates
- Remove fallen leaves promptly to prevent lawn suffocation
- Consider mulching leaves with mower if quantity is manageable
- Use collected leaves as mulch for garden beds
- Clean and sharpen mower blades
- Service equipment before winter storage
- Drain and winterize irrigation systems if needed
Winter Lawn Care (December-February)
While Jacksonville winters are mild, proper winter care ensures your lawn emerges healthy in spring.
December
Watering Practices
- Reduce irrigation to once per week or less
- Water only when needed (check soil moisture first)
- Water during mid-day when temperatures are above freezing
- Monitor for and treat winter weeds like chickweed and annual bluegrass
- Hand-pull isolated weeds
- Apply post-emergent herbicides on warmer winter days
- Minimize traffic on dormant or semi-dormant lawns
- Avoid mowing frost-covered grass
- Create winter pathways to reduce lawn damage
January
Planning and Assessment
- Evaluate lawn for bare or damaged areas
- Plan spring renovation projects
- Consider soil testing to prepare for spring fertilization
- Mow only as needed (growth is minimal)
- Keep lawn clear of debris
- Spot-treat persistent winter weeds
- Service lawn equipment for spring
- Sharpen and balance mower blades
- Check irrigation system components
February
Pre-Spring Preparation
- Begin preparation for spring green-up
- Clean up winter debris and fallen branches
- Address drainage issues before spring rains
- Apply preventive treatments for spring pests if history of problems
- Check for and address winter weed infestations
- Monitor for early signs of fungal diseases as temperatures fluctuate
- Test irrigation system before spring
- Replace damaged components
- Calibrate sprinkler output
Special Considerations for Jacksonville Lawns
Shade Management
Jacksonville's mature tree canopy creates shade challenges for many lawns:
- For heavily shaded areas, consider shade-tolerant St. Augustine varieties like 'Seville' or 'Palmetto'
- Prune lower tree limbs to improve light penetration
- Reduce fertilizer in shaded areas to prevent weak, leggy growth
- Consider alternatives to grass in deeply shaded areas
Salt Exposure
For properties near the coast or intracoastal waterway:
- Choose salt-tolerant grass varieties like St. Augustine 'Floratam'
- Rinse lawn with fresh water after salt spray exposure
- Improve drainage to prevent salt buildup
- Consider raised planting areas to reduce salt exposure
Sandy Soil Amendments
Jacksonville's sandy soils present specific challenges:
- Apply organic matter to improve water and nutrient retention
- Consider humic acid applications to improve soil structure
- Use appropriate soil surfactants to improve water penetration
- Select fertilizers with appropriate micronutrients for sandy soils
Conclusion
By following this seasonal lawn care calendar tailored specifically for Jacksonville's unique climate and growing conditions, homeowners can maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn year-round. Remember that timing is critical for many lawn care tasks, from fertilization to weed control to pest management.
While this calendar provides general guidelines, it's important to adjust your lawn care activities based on your specific grass type, soil conditions, and the current weather patterns. When in doubt, consult with local lawn care professionals or the Duval County Extension Office for personalized advice.
With proper seasonal care, your Jacksonville lawn can remain the envy of the neighborhood throughout the year, providing a beautiful, functional outdoor space for your family to enjoy.