Warm-season grasses should not be fertilized after which date?

Warm-season grasses should not be fertilized after which date?

• A. Mid-May
• B. Mid-April
• C. Mid-August
• D. Mid-September

Answer: (C)

Fertilizing warm-season grasses should stop as they approach dormancy to avoid promoting one last round of tender, late-season growth that can’t harden off before frost. Applying nitrogen after mid-August tends to keep leaves green and soft, which makes the grass more vulnerable to cold damage and winter kill, and can also invite diseases during the shoulder season. By stopping around mid-August, the grass can finish its growing cycle, store carbohydrates, and enter winter hardiness with less stress. Earlier spring fertilization (around mid-April to mid-May) supports the initial green-up, while fertilizing after mid-August is generally avoided.

Fertilizing warm-season grasses should stop as they approach dormancy to avoid promoting one last round of tender, late-season growth that can’t harden off before frost. Applying nitrogen after mid-August tends to keep leaves green and soft, which makes the grass more vulnerable to cold damage and winter kill, and can also invite diseases during the shoulder season. By stopping around mid-August, the grass can finish its growing cycle, store carbohydrates, and enter winter hardiness with less stress. Earlier spring fertilization (around mid-April to mid-May) supports the initial green-up, while fertilizing after mid-August is generally avoided.