Maximize Bermuda Grass growth: The best fertilizers for a thriving lawn

Bermuda grass is scientifically known as Cynodon dactylon and belongs to the family Poaceae. This grass has multiple names, including couch grass (Australia and New Zealand), crabgrass (Bermuda), dog grass, devil’s grass, wiregrass, and scutch grass. It has grey-green blades that are typically 1-10 inches long with slightly flattened stems. Bermuda grass develops best at up to 99°F in full sun, and this species goes dormant in winter.

Due to its fast-growing rate and tough nature, Bermuda grass is commonly to grow on golf greens, pastures, and lawns as it very well adapts to the conditions of various environments. Bermudagrass is well-known in India because of its use in many religious rituals and Ayurveda as “Durva”.
It needs to be moved regularly to manage it, or else it becomes too thick and full of pests and diseases. Resilient to heavy foot traffic, it is the optimal option for playgrounds, sports fields, public lawns, and parks. It is inexpensive to install, competes against many weeds, and has quick recovery from stolons and rhizomes.

As Bermuda quickly grows, a fertilized lawn can provide a steady nutrient supply, enhancing color, fighting diseases, and increasing resilience. This particular grass grows quickly and also requires very little maintenance; nonetheless, it is advisable to take the advice of a specialist before increasing it to ensure guidelines on the appropriate variety to grow for the area, soil (especially the PH and nutrition), required devices, and also the tips on how to care throughout other phases of growth.

Growcycle provides Bermuda grass

As with all other grasses, Bermuda grass requires particular formulas at each stage of growth to meet its nutritional needs. The major nutrients that are essential for fast and healthy Bermuda growth are divided into macro (urea, ammonium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, copper, zinc, manganese, etc.) and micronutrient categories.

Macronutrients for the Bermuda Grass

Urea and Ammonium Nitrate: Being the two most significant fertilizers, they provide substantial nitrogen that stimulates lush green leaves of Bermuda grass, ensuring good health during a growing season. In addition, they are also necessary for the robust root development to help anchor the grass into the soil while increasing the nurturing absorption surface area of the root, causing a huge amount of tiny root growth into the soil with nutrients.

Phosphorus: Interaction with high phosphorus is critical for growth of Bermuda sod and it can be available on the soil pH scale. This phosphorus binds with calcium in alkaline soils, which is less available for grass, and with iron in acidic soils. Starter fertilizers can nourish the root systems with rich phosphorus and solve this competition.

Potassium: Adequate potassium acts as an important stabilizer in Bermuda grass, keeping the plant healthy in both drought periods and the hotter months. It activates stomatal behaviors to avoid water loss and gives protection to leaf spots and brown patches. Mass-feeding potassium-rich fertilizers or natural compounds found on the market can meet the need for phosphorus.

Calcium: If grass absorbs enough calcium, it enhances the structural integrity of Bermuda. Lime has an extra punch because it gives calcium, too, but it must be applied with caution because too much will mess with the natural soil pH.

Sulfur: Bermuda requires sulfur to create protein and enzyme functions. It is in the soil of virtually every lawn, but if you suffer from any of the several noted deficiencies, good improvement will be necessary if you want to get rid of growth barriers. It is also an important factor in soil PH buffering and chlorophyll production during photosynthesis.

Micronutrients For Bermuds Grass

Iron: Iron is an essential component for photosynthesis, which is why Bermuda grass is green. Regular iron gives a bright, fresh dark green hue, which is also calming and attractive. Iron has a huge influence on mental wellness and is a calming factor. And the best antidote for an iron deficiency in Bermuda is Ironite-type supplements.

Copper: Like iron, copper is an enzyme activator used in both photosynthesis and in the production of chlorophyll. The lack of it may devastate plant leaves, turning them from brilliant green to dark blue, while the plant stops growing.

Manganese: A critical component of one of the early steps in splitting water molecules during photosynthesis. It also enhances soil nitrogen absorption into the leaves and assists several enzyme reactions within the plant. Its shortage prevents plants from degenerating and results in photosynthesis.

Zinc and Molybdenum: Zinc is significant for synthesizing carbohydrates and proteins in plants and for ensuring chlorophyll production. Lack of it leads to slowed Bermuda grass growth. In contrast, there is an important role of molybdenum in nitrogen metabolism with a very low requirement. A lack of it can change the nitrogen cycle by influencing nitrogen-fixing bacteria and lead to inappropriate nutrient uptake via the roots.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fertilizer

High-quality fertilizers should not be applied to Bermuda grass without prior consideration from the point of view of soil nature, the lawn's needs, types of fertilizer, the grass's state, and the grower's budget as well. This will enable the grower to devise a calculated plan for effective and lasting results.

• Soil Condition

Fertilizers are the lifesaver for the lawn, and while selecting them, they must be perfect. A soil test prior to choosing fertilizer reveals the hidden needs of the lawn. This test needs to be conducted prior to fertilizer application, wherein there is a necessity for identification of nutrient levels and pH of the soil. The soil for Bermuda grass should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH between 5.8 and 7.0. The only soil test that must be adjusted before fertilizer application is soil pH. Soil texture is also a determinant for nutrient supply — for instance, sandy soil requires more applications than clay soil.

• Lawn Requirements

As the nutritional needs of the grass change with the growth season, the schedule and types of fertilizers can also be determined based on the condition of the lawn and the season of the Bermuda grass growth. We know it needs more nitrogen and other nutrients during the first flush of growth and the growing season, but then, when it goes dormant, the demand shifts to potassium and phosphorus to keep up with hydration and overall vigor in the cold weather. Thus, based on different seasons, the fertilizers can be selected with the necessary nutrient ratio.

• Budget

It is recommended for lawn owners to select fertilizers depending on their price range by weighing the requirement for frequent application against the cost (or cost per square application). A costly fertilizer may upset the budget when used repeatedly over a wide area. Slow-release fertilizers are economical because, while they have a higher initial cost compared to quick-release fertilizers, the long-term supply of nutrients eliminates the need for frequent applications.

• Fertilizer Type

Different fertilizers have identical nutrient quality, so the choice must be based on cost, method of application, ease of use, environmental safety, and frequency of applications. Granular fertilizers release nutrients at a slow rate, allowing the grass to grow steadily, and are the easiest to apply by simply spreading them on the grass. On the other hand, liquid fertilizers need special care, together with the danger of nutrient washout; they are easily stripped of their nutrients, and growers need to repeat the task of applying them.

The Best Fertilizers for Bermuda Grass Growth

Maintaining a lush and healthy lawn requires the right nutrients, and choosing the best fertilizer can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to the best fertilizers for a thriving lawn.

1. Down To Earth Langbeinite

This natural mineral fertilizer contains essential nutrients, sulfur, potassium, and magnesium, to improve the health of Bermuda grass. Potassium improves the root structure and enhances stability to resist disease attack and help maintain growth during drought periods, whereas magnesium boosts green color.

Down To Earth Langbeinite helps to upgrade the soil structure by enhancing drainage and infiltration to prevent the grass soil from waterlogging. This fertilizer leads to healthy grass and a wealthy lawn that enhances its aesthetic beauty and value. 

2. HiYield 4# Muriate Of Potash

HiYield 4# Muriate Of Potash Muriate is a valuable synthetic fertilizer for Bermuda grass. The potassium content in this fertilizer activates stomatal closure to maintain high water and reduce evaporation on hot days. The robust root growth due to potassium allows grass to absorb well soil nutrients and water. It promotes balanced growth and reduces patches, making it ideal for lawn grass use. This fertilizer is spread evenly as a granule in the whole lawn, and watering helps penetrate it in the soil.

3. Fertilome 32oz Fish Emulsion Fertilizer

Fertilome 32oz Fish Emulsion Fertilizer is highly recommended for plants due to its organic, nutrient rich, and highly active nature. The fertilizer has balanced vital nutrients and trace nutrients, which enhance microbial activity in grass soil. It is more environmentally friendly and has less risk for chemical runoff. It improves water retention, which is beneficial for Bermuda grass to sustain in stress conditions. This fertilizer is quickly absorbed in the soil, making it an ideal choice for faster growth results. 

4. Down To Earth Kelp Meal

Down To Earth Kelp Meal is prepared from seaweed, which enriches it with micronutrients that may hardly be available in conventional organic fertilizers. These nutrients are crucial in stimulating root growth in the presence of growth hormones such as auxins and cytokinins. Kelp also helps water retention and upgrades the soil structure by absorbing the required moisture.

Kelp meal boosts Bermuda grass immunity and acts as a defensive wall against pest attacks. Regularly using this fertilizer improves Bermuda grass appearance, making it look more green, enhancing the turf density, and making it more complicated and resistant to environmental conditions. 

5. Roots Organics Non-GMO Organic Soybean Meal

Roots Organics Non-GMO Organic Soybean Meal has a rich nutrient composition that boosts the lush green color, leaf growth, and overall density of the grass. This slow-release fertilizer ensures a steady supply of nutrients for a longer duration, reducing the risk of nutrient burn and leading to consistent growth.

It also boosts microbial activity by decomposing naturally existing organic matter and turning it into readily available essential nutrients. As an organic fertilizing option, it is environmentally friendly, reducing the pollution factor, which is dangerous for both plants and human beings. 

6. Down To Earth Alfalfa Meal

Down To Earth Alfalfa Meal has several benefits, such as its composition from ground alfalfa, which benefits multiple plants, including Bermuda grass. Its rich nutrient profile highlights it among other organic fertilizers. It has rich primary and secondary nutrients and trace minerals to support the vigorous growth of grass. 

Alfalfa meal releases nutrients slowly and ensures steady development in Bermuda grass by reducing the risk of nutrient leaching. It maintains the pH level and appropriately absorbs nutrients and water for healthy grass growth. This formula in late spring contributes to growth activation and boosts the enzyme reaction.

7. Grow More Seaweed Extract 

Grow More Seaweed Extract is prepared by mixing various types of seaweed, which increases its nutrient profile and makes it ideal for Bermuda grass growth. This fertilizer's natural compounds optimize Bermuda grass's efficiency in absorbing nutrients from the soil, and the enriched growth hormones in seaweed improve overall root health.

By enhancing soil structure and root health, Bermuda grass can bear water stress and maintain water retention in dry periods. Seaweed extract is applied in liquid form with a water can or sprayer to ensure an even supply, resulting in fast absorption and relatively quick results. 

8. Sustane 21gm 3-5-3 Compost Tea Bags OMRI

Sustane 21gm 3-5-3 Compost Tea Bags OMRI is helpful for Bermuda grass because its microorganisms break down organic matter and increase grass availability. In decomposition, the essential nutrients are released into the soil, where grass roots absorb them to improve health and soil structure.

Compost Tea Bags contain balanced nutrients that strengthen the grass and make its appearance thicker and brighter. They can also suppress harmful pathogens and act as a natural defender against disease attacks. Compost tea is applied in liquid form with the help of a water can to ensure a balanced application for equal growth in the whole lawn.

Application and Timing

Recommendations and unique facets of Bermuda grass fertilization dose to keep its green cover and root in good shape. There are specific seasons during which fertilizers should be applied to this grass, and each of these seasons has specific nutrient requirements:

• Spring Season

The season begins in late March and goes till May when the grass wakes up from its dormancy period. In this season, a balanced fertilizer starts the roots and greenery growing.

• Summer Season

June to August is known as a mid-growth season for Bermuda grass, which is also the time period of this season. This extra nutrient provision (particularly nitrogen) helps to sustain the density of the grass.

• Fall Season

That season runs from September through November. Understood use of a slow-nitrogen-content fertilizer early in the fall can prepare the grass for its winter hibernation. Avoid applying in late fall to stop late-season growth from occurring.

Bermuda Grass Maintenance Tips

To promote the ideal growth of Bermuda grass, it is essential to have proper care and maintenance practices regarding mowing, fertilizing, watering, thatch, and pests.

• For Bermuda grass, height is to be mowed at 1-2 inches, and this should be repeated after 5-7 days to thicken Bermuda grass and provide it with a carpet texture and lush green color. During mowing, you should pay attention to avoid dull blades, because the blades tear the leaves.
• Similarly, the aeration procedure is equally important to motivate strong roots and nutrient absorption; the lawn should be aerated every season to provide incredible nutrition results.
• It can compete for absorption of nutrients and water from the soil, hence needs to be extracted from the grass by special machines, without damage to the roots around it.
• The grass needs only deep watering, and this should not be frequent; rather, watering should be shallow and frequent. Inundate your lawn with 1 to 1.5 inches of water every week. Avoid the mid-afternoon waterings in order to allow the land to dry and prevent fungi from infecting.
• Diseases and pest attacks are denoted by armyworms and spots on leaves. Growers need to vigilantly look over the grass for signs of abnormal growth or leaf appearance so care measures can he implemented to minimize the severity of the attack, thus allowing for early detection.

Common Issues and Solutions

Compacted soil allows grass to take up less water and nutrients, causing a lag in grass growth. Soil compaction can result from heavy traffic, machinery, or poor soil structure. It can take care of increasing the air exchange and growth in your lawn. A thin layer of organic matter over rich soil will also aid absorption. Here are some other common problems with Bermuda grass:

Phosphorus Lockout

The excessive use of phosphorus utilized in phosphate chemical reactions leads to phosphorus lockout. It occurs in high pH soils or soils having high calcium and magnesium. This can be improved through adjustments of pH via soil tests. Liming of highly acidic soil and sulphur application in high pH soil also favour the phosphate solubility in grass.

Thatch Accumulation

Thatch is the layer of organic material that develops between the grass and the soil. A little is not harmful, but its overabundance can compete with the water and nutrients, which will lead to weak growth of Bermuda grass. The organic layer should be detached using suitable machines. You can also remove it by hand on your small lawn. Frequent mowing and how the lawn is mowed also limit thatch buildup.

Anthracnose

The Brown patch disease (Anthracnose) in turn affects the blades and crowns of Bermuda grass. In this disease, leaves show small, round, and hollow spots. Encouraging the turf by watering and mowing only when absolutely necessary and by protecting the plant with fungicides can help the turf recover and reduce the disease symptoms. Also, keeping heavy traffic and a large amount of fertilizers away helps a lot.

Brown Patch

Brown patch is a common, fungal-based disease of the grass. The likelihood of that happening increases in hot, humid weather. They look like round circles with brown centers for a sign. Air circulation by thinning the layers of grass plays an important role in controlling its growth. Application of balanced fertilization and fungicides also reduces the signs of the diseases.

The Bottom Line

Growing Bermuda grass indoors needs at least 4 to 6 hours of steady, full sunlight daily. So, growing it indoors is possible only by using artificial grow lights. These lights act as an additional dose of sunlight, being used in the same way for plant growth. You will want to amend the soil to be sandy soil, well-drained, with the best pH being 6. Should not have more than 2 inches of grass growth, so the frequency of moving is advisable to avoid diseases and attacks of pests.

All the essential nutrients that the blood needs to keep the grass healthy need to be applied through a balanced fertilizer to store the richness of the lawn for 12 months. This can only be done by consulting an authorized agricultural and horticultural company like Growcycle, which offers various accessories, including everything crucial for growers to grow and maintain Bermuda grass.

Disclaimer:This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.