Best Soil For St Augustine Grass (2024 Updated)

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As a homeowner or landscaper, you want your St. Augustine grass to thrive and look its best. One of the most important factors in achieving this is the type of soil in which it is planted. The right soil can provide the necessary nutrients and water retention needed for healthy growth. Here are five key points to consider when looking for the best soil for St. Augustine grass.

1. Soil pH: St. Augustine grass thrives in soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. You can test your soil pH with a simple kit from a garden center or nursery.

2. Drainage: St. Augustine grass prefers well-draining soil. If your soil is clay-based, you may need to amend it with sand or organic matter to improve drainage.

3. Nutrients: St. Augustine grass needs a balance of nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Look for a soil with a balanced fertilizer ratio.

4. Organic matter: Organic matter, such as compost, helps to improve soil structure and water retention. Look for a soil mix that includes some organic matter.

5. Texture: St. Augustine grass prefers a soil with a medium to fine texture. Avoid soils with large particles or heavy clay.

By considering these key points, you can choose the best soil for your St. Augustine grass, ensuring it receives the nutrients and conditions it needs to thrive.

10 Best Soil For St Augustine Grass

1. Yard Butler Sod Plugger For Grass Transplanting & Repair – Isp-33

The Yard Butler Sod Plugger ISP-33 is a manual sod cutter designed for transplanting grass plugs of various types of turf grasses, including zoysia, Bermuda, centipede, St. Augustine, and many others. This tool is an ideal choice for lawn repair, as it allows users to select the best sod for their specific needs.

The Yard Butler Sod Plugger ISP-33 is built to last a lifetime, with heavy-duty, durable powder-coated steel construction that can withstand heavy use. The product comes with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring that buyers can trust in the quality of the tool they are purchasing.

The Yard Butler Sod Plugger ISP-33 measures 33 inches tall, 9 inches wide, and weighs 4 lbs. The long handle provides ample leverage and makes it easier to pull up turf plugs. The sawtooth sod cutting blade and foot bar also provide additional leverage, making it easier to cut through tough soil and roots.

The Yard Butler Sod Plugger ISP-33 is designed to cut a 3" X 3" square plug of sod or soil, which is the size of most commercially available grass plugs. The sod fits tightly into prepared holes, ensuring better growth and survival for the turf. The ejector button makes it easy to remove the plug without having to bend over, reducing strain on the back and knees.

The Yard Butler Sod Plugger ISP-33 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable tool for lawn repair and transplanting. The cushioned handles provide added comfort, and the product is easy to use, even for those with little experience in lawn care.

In summary, the Yard Butler Sod Plugger ISP-33 is a must-have tool for anyone looking to maintain and repair their lawn. With its lifetime guarantee, heavy-duty construction, and ease of use, this product is an excellent investment for any homeowner or professional landscaper.

2. Scotts Ez Patch Lawn Repair Fixes St. Augustine Lawns Without Grass Seeds. It Includes Mulch, Fertilizer, And Covers Up To 85 Sq. Ft.

Scotts EZ Patch Lawn Repair for St. Augustine Lawns is a revolutionary product that has been specifically designed to repair St. Augustinegrass quickly and efficiently. The product contains a combination of mulch and fertilizer that has been proven to repair St. Augustinegrass 60% faster than untreated lawns. The results of the repair process can be seen within 15 days of application, though results may vary.

The mulch in the product is designed to absorb up to six times its weight in water. This allows it to expand and surround the seed in a moist protective layer. This helps to ensure that the seed remains hydrated and protected during the repair process. The mulch also helps to retain moisture in the soil, which is essential for promoting the growth and establishment of St. Augustinegrass.

The fertilizer in the product is based on exclusive controlled release technology. This means that the fertilizer releases nutrients slowly over time, which helps to promote the gradual growth and establishment of St. Augustinegrass. The fertilizer is also designed to provide the grass with the essential nutrients it needs to thrive, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

The ready-to-use lawn repair mix is easy to apply and covers up to 85 sq. ft. This makes it ideal for repairing small patches of damaged or dead grass. The product is also designed to be easy to use, with no need for additional grass seeds.

One of the key benefits of Scotts EZ Patch Lawn Repair for St. Augustine Lawns is that it does not contain grass seed. This means that it is ideal for repairing St. Augustinegrass without the risk of introducing foreign grass species into the lawn. This is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of the lawn, as foreign grasses can compete with St. Augustinegrass for resources and can ultimately lead to a decline in the overall health of the lawn.

Overall, Scotts EZ Patch Lawn Repair for St. Augustine Lawns is an essential tool for anyone looking to repair and maintain their St. Augustinegrass lawn. Its combination of mulch and fertilizer provides a fast and effective solution to repairing damaged or dead grass, while its easy-to-use design makes it suitable for even the most inexperienced gardeners. Whether you're looking to repair small patches or large areas of damage, Scotts EZ Patch Lawn Repair for St. Augustine Lawns is the perfect solution.

3. Palmetto St. Augustine Grass Plugs / Box Of 72

Palmetto St. Augustine Grass Plugs are an exceptional choice for both commercial and residential use. This product comes in a box of 72 large 3 inch plugs and includes free shipping. However, it is important to note that due to current agricultural restrictions, this product cannot be shipped to California or Arizona.

One of the key benefits of Palmetto St. Augustine Grass Plugs is their superior color and texture when compared to regular St. Augustine Plugs. The grass has a lush, green appearance that is sure to impress. Additionally, it has exceptional shade tolerance, making it a great choice for areas that receive less sunlight.

Palmetto St. Augustine Grass Plugs are also a great option for those looking to maintain a beautiful lawn with minimal effort. Once established, this grass requires less water and fertilizer than many other varieties. This can save both time and money in the long run.

Another advantage of Palmetto St. Augustine Grass Plugs is their ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. This makes them an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as sports fields, parks, and playgrounds. They also have good resistance to pests and diseases, further reducing the need for maintenance.

Overall, Palmetto St. Augustine Grass Plugs are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance the appearance of their lawn or landscaping. With their outstanding color and texture, exceptional shade tolerance, and low maintenance requirements, they are sure to provide lasting beauty and enjoyment for years to come.

4. Green Max Lawn Food With Iron Supplement For Thick, Deep Green Lawns – 10,000 Sq. Ft. Coverage.

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food is a high-quality lawn fertilizer that is designed to provide deep greening in just three days. This dual-action, 2-in-1 formula not only feeds and nourishes your lawn but also supplements it with iron to help it grow thick and green. With this lawn food, you can achieve a lush and healthy lawn that you will be proud of.

This lawn food is easy to use and is suitable for any grass type. You can apply it in the spring, summer, or fall months to ensure that your lawn is well-nourished throughout the year. The recommended application rate is 1.5 lbs per 1,000 sq. ft. of lawn area. This bag of Scotts Green Max Lawn Food can cover up to 10,000 sq. ft. of lawn area, making it an excellent value for money.

One of the best things about this lawn food is that it is not supposed to stain when used as directed. This means that you can apply it without worrying about any unsightly stains on your lawn or driveway. Additionally, it is safe for pets and children to re-enter the lawn immediately after application.

Scotts Green Max Lawn Food is an essential part of the Scotts Lawn Care Plan. This plan is designed to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to grow healthy and strong. By following this plan, you can ensure that your lawn is getting the right amount of nutrients at the right time.

In summary, Scotts Green Max Lawn Food is a high-quality lawn fertilizer that can help you achieve a lush and healthy lawn. Its dual-action, 2-in-1 formula feeds and supplements your lawn with iron to promote deep greening in just three days. It is easy to apply, safe for pets and children, and doesn't stain when used as directed. It is an essential part of the Scotts Lawn Care Plan and is recommended for many lawns.

5. Scotts Ez Seed Patch And Repair Sun And Shade For Grass: Covers Up To 225 Sq. Ft., 10 Lb.

Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair Sun and Shade for Grass is a revolutionary seeding mix that enables users to grow grass anywhere with guaranteed results, subject to proper care. This high-performance product consists of grass seed, mulch, fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant, which all work together to create the perfect environment for growing grass.

The grass seed used in this mix is Scotts' best high-performance seed, which ensures that the grass will grow quickly and healthy. The mulch in the mix is designed to absorb 6X its weight in water and expands to surround the seed in a moist protective layer. This layer helps to keep the seed from drying out and provides the perfect environment for germination.

The fertilizer in this mix is exclusive controlled release technology that feeds seedlings to jumpstart growth. This technology ensures that the grass will grow quickly and evenly, giving the user a lush and healthy lawn. The tackifier in the mix helps to keep the seed from washing away, which is particularly useful in areas with heavy rainfall or high winds.

The protectant in the mix helps to keep the seedlings safe from harmful diseases that can attack newly planted areas. This is especially important in areas with high humidity or where fungal diseases are prevalent. The protectant ensures that the grass grows healthy and strong, without being affected by disease.

Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair Sun and Shade for Grass is suitable for growing in full sun and dense shade, high traffic areas, and on slopes. It is ideal for repairing bare spots in the lawn, creating a new lawn, or simply improving the overall health of the lawn. This product is also easy to use, as it comes in a 10lb bag that can cover up to 225 sq. ft.

It is important to note that Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair Sun and Shade for Grass is not available in Hawaii. However, in all other areas, this revolutionary product provides an easy and effective way to grow healthy and lush grass anywhere. With its combination of high-performance grass seed, mulch, fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant, Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair Sun and Shade for Grass is the perfect solution for those looking to improve the health and appearance of their lawn.

6. Seedranch St. Augustine Lawn 24-2-11 Fertilizer – 50 Lbs.

SeedRanch has introduced a high-quality fertilizer for St. Augustine lawns that provides essential nutrients for the growth and maintenance of your lawn. The SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn 24-2-11 Fertilizer is designed to promote healthy root development, improve color and texture, and enhance overall lawn health.

This fertilizer contains 6% iron, which is essential for greening up your lawn and giving it a vibrant, healthy look. The high nitrogen content (24%) ensures that your lawn receives the nutrients it needs for vigorous growth, while the phosphorus (2%) and potassium (11%) help to strengthen the roots and prevent disease.

With a coverage of up to 12,000 square feet, this fertilizer is perfect for large lawns and will keep your St. Augustine grass looking lush and healthy all season long. Simply apply the recommended amount of fertilizer to your lawn according to the instructions on the bag, and enjoy a healthy, vibrant lawn that will be the envy of your neighbors.

In addition to providing essential nutrients for your lawn, the SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn 24-2-11 Fertilizer is also easy to use. The granular form of the fertilizer ensures even distribution, and the bag comes with a convenient handle for easy transportation and storage.

Whether you're a professional landscaper or a homeowner looking to improve the health and appearance of your St. Augustine lawn, the SeedRanch St. Augustine Lawn 24-2-11 Fertilizer is an excellent choice. With its high-quality ingredients and easy-to-use formula, this fertilizer will help you achieve a beautiful, healthy lawn that you can be proud of.

7. Southern Ag Atrazine St. Augustine Grass Weed Killer, 1 Gallon

Southern Ag Atrazine St. Augustine Grass Weed Killer is a highly effective solution for controlling weeds in lawns and gardens. This product is specifically designed to kill a wide range of broadleaf weeds, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy and vibrant lawn.

One of the key features of this weed killer is its ability to work on a variety of different grass types. In addition to St. Augustine grass, it can also be used on centipede grass, providing a versatile solution for homeowners and landscapers alike.

Another benefit of Southern Ag Atrazine St. Augustine Grass Weed Killer is its ability to provide suppression of crabgrass. This is a common problem for many homeowners, and can be difficult to control without the right product. With this weed killer, however, crabgrass can be effectively controlled, helping to keep lawns looking their best.

This product is also effective at controlling both emerged weeds and weeds from seed. This means that it can be used to prevent new weeds from sprouting, as well as to eliminate existing weeds in your lawn or garden.

Overall, Southern Ag Atrazine St. Augustine Grass Weed Killer is a reliable and effective solution for anyone looking to maintain a healthy and beautiful lawn. Whether you are dealing with broadleaf weeds, crabgrass, or other types of unwanted growth, this product can help you achieve a clean and well-manicured lawn that you can be proud of.

8. Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food, 28.12 Lbs.

Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food is a highly effective lawn care product specially designed for use in Southern regions. This 28.12 lbs. bag of lawn food contains Scotts All-in-One Particles that ensure an even distribution of nutrients with every application. The product is formulated to protect the lawn against the harsh effects of heat and drought, ensuring that your lawn remains healthy and green all year round.

This lawn food is designed to improve your lawn's ability to absorb water and nutrients compared to an unfed lawn. The enhanced nutrient uptake ensures that the grass grows stronger and healthier, with deep roots that can resist drought and heat stress. The product is suitable for application on any grass type, making it a versatile lawn care solution for homeowners and landscapers.

One of the most significant benefits of using Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food is its fast-acting formula. The product starts working immediately upon application, and the lawn can be re-entered immediately after it has been applied. This makes it convenient for homeowners who want to maintain an active lifestyle while keeping their lawns healthy and green.

However, it is important to note that this product is not available in Florida due to state regulations. Homeowners in Florida may want to consider alternative lawn care products that are approved for use in the state.

Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Food is an excellent investment for homeowners who want to maintain a healthy and green lawn. The product is easy to apply and provides long-lasting results, ensuring that your lawn remains healthy and vibrant throughout the year. Whether you are a homeowner or a landscaper, this lawn food is a must-have in your lawn care arsenal.

9. St. Augustine Palmetto | 18 Live Extra Large Grass Plugs | Drought, Salt & Shade Tolerant Turf Sod

The St. Augustine Palmetto, packaged and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage, is a native cultivar of St. Augustine grass that has been selected for its finer texture and better color than ordinary St. Augustine grass. This versatile turfgrass is used across the southern United States from the Carolinas to California under a wide range of climate and soil conditions, making it the ideal choice for residential and commercial use.

Palmetto grass is rapidly becoming accepted as a landscaping standard since its introduction in 1994. This is due to its superior shade, cold, frost, heat, and drought tolerance, which are demonstrated in field tests. When properly maintained, Palmetto St. Augustine grass will deliver years of an aesthetically pleasing and functional lawn.

Palmetto grass is a semi-dwarf grass that has a plush appearance similar to Seville and Delmar, but it is less prone to becoming thatchy, even in full sunlight. Its leaf blade width is similar to Bitterblue and Raleigh and finer than Floratam. The leaf blades are tapered at the tip with a rounded end, and are soft to the touch, unlike the prickly feel of Floratam. When mowed high (3" – 4"), it is often mistaken for fescue.

Palmetto grass will remain green longer than any other variety of St. Augustine, and it will stay green much longer than Bermuda grass and Centipede grass. Palmetto grass will slowly become dormant after several heavy frosts, and it will remain evergreen in temperatures below freezing if there are no hard frosts.

Palmetto grass has demonstrated very good drought tolerance in field tests. St. Augustine grasses, in general, are known for their shade tolerance, and Palmetto has exceptional shade tolerance, even when compared to the most shade-tolerant varieties of St. Augustine.

It is important to note that like all turfgrass, Palmetto St. Augustine grass is a living plant, not a miracle grass. It requires proper maintenance to ensure it delivers a beautiful and functional lawn. With its superior characteristics, the Palmetto St. Augustine grass is an excellent choice for those looking for a hardy and low-maintenance turfgrass option.

Best Soil For St Augustine Grass FAQs

Are there any specific soil nutrients that St. Augustine grass requires for optimal growth?

Yes, St. Augustine grass requires specific soil nutrients for optimal growth. This warm-season grass prefers soil with a pH range between 5.0 and 7.5. It also requires adequate levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen is essential for shoot growth and green color, while phosphorus is necessary for root development and overall plant growth. Potassium aids in stress tolerance and disease resistance. Other important micronutrients for St. Augustine grass include iron, manganese, and magnesium. Soil testing can help determine if the soil has adequate levels of these nutrients. Additionally, proper watering and mowing practices can also support healthy growth and development of St. Augustine grass.

How does soil drainage affect the growth of St. Augustine grass?

Soil drainage plays a crucial role in the growth of St. Augustine grass. Poor drainage can lead to waterlogging and suffocation of the grass roots, causing stunted growth and ultimately death. On the other hand, well-drained soil allows for optimal root development, nutrient uptake, and water retention, resulting in healthy and vigorous growth of St. Augustine grass.

In addition, soil drainage affects the susceptibility of St. Augustine grass to diseases and pests. Excess moisture in poorly drained soil creates a favorable environment for fungal diseases to thrive, leading to brown patches and other problems that can weaken or kill the grass. Adequate soil drainage also helps to prevent the buildup of harmful insects and pests that can damage the grass.

Therefore, maintaining proper soil drainage through regular watering and appropriate soil amendments is crucial for the successful growth of St. Augustine grass.

What are some common soil amendments recommended for St. Augustine grass?

Some common soil amendments recommended for St. Augustine grass include topdressing with compost or organic matter, adding nitrogen-rich fertilizers, and adjusting pH levels with lime or sulfur. Compost and organic matter can improve soil structure, increase water retention, and promote beneficial microbial activity. Nitrogen fertilizers can boost growth and productivity, but should be used sparingly to avoid excessive growth and susceptibility to disease. Lime or sulfur can be used to adjust pH levels, which can affect nutrient availability and plant health. It is important to test soil before applying any amendments to ensure proper application rates and avoid over-application. Additionally, regular aeration can help reduce soil compaction and improve nutrient uptake. Overall, soil amendments should be chosen based on the specific needs and conditions of the soil and St. Augustine grass in order to promote healthy growth and optimal performance.

What is the ideal pH level for soil when growing St. Augustine grass?

The ideal pH level for soil when growing St. Augustine grass is between 5.0 and 7.5. This range provides the optimal conditions for the grass to absorb essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Soil with a pH level outside of this range can hinder the grass's growth and cause nutrient deficiencies.

Maintaining the appropriate pH level can be achieved through regular soil testing and amending the soil as needed. If the soil is too acidic, lime can be added to raise the pH level. If the soil is too alkaline, sulfur can be added to lower the pH level.

It is essential to monitor the pH level of the soil regularly to ensure the health and vitality of the St. Augustine grass. It is also important to note that other factors, such as soil type, climate, and irrigation practices, can affect the grass's growth and health.

What type of soil texture is best for St. Augustine grass?

St. Augustine grass thrives in well-drained soils with a sandy or loamy texture. It requires a soil with good water retention capacity, yet is not prone to waterlogging. Soils that are too clayey or too sandy may not be suitable for St. Augustine grass, as they can lead to drainage problems or insufficient water retention. A soil pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is optimal for St. Augustine grass growth. Soil texture can be improved through proper soil preparation involving soil testing, tilling, and amending with organic matter to achieve the desired texture. Proper irrigation practices and fertilization also play a crucial role in maintaining healthy St. Augustine grass. Overall, a well-drained, loamy soil with adequate water retention capacity and a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal for growing St. Augustine grass.

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