March in North Texas is a time of transition. The chill of winter fades, the wildflowers start peeking through, and your lawn begins to wake up from its slumber. For homeowners, this shift signals the perfect opportunity to get ahead of the game and set your yard up for a vibrant spring and summer. At Fallas Landscape, we know that a healthy lawn doesn’t happen by accident—it starts with smart fertilizing strategies tailored to our unique North Texas climate. So, let’s dive into the “March Madness” of lawn care and share some expert fertilizing tips to help your grass thrive.
Why March Matters for Your Lawn
In North Texas, March is when the soil begins to warm up, typically reaching temperatures above 55°F—ideal for grass roots to start absorbing nutrients. Whether you’ve got Bermuda, St. Augustine, or Zoysia grass (the big three in our region), this is the month to give your lawn the boost it needs after winter dormancy. Fertilizing now sets the stage for strong growth, lush color, and resilience against the heat and drought we know are coming. But timing and technique are everything—overdo it, and you’ll stress your lawn; underdo it, and you’ll miss the window.
Step 1: Test Your Soil
Before you grab that fertilizer bag, let’s talk dirt. North Texas soil varies wildly—from the clay-heavy Blackland Prairie soils to sandy loam in other areas. A simple soil test (available at local garden centers or through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension) can tell you what nutrients your lawn is craving. Is it nitrogen-deficient? Low on phosphorus? Knowing this helps you choose the right fertilizer blend. At Fallas Landscape, we’ve seen too many homeowners guess their way into yellowing grass—don’t let that be you. A quick test now saves headaches later.
Step 2: Pick the Right Fertilizer
Fertilizers come with three numbers on the bag (like 16-4-8), representing nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). For early March in North Texas, a balanced or nitrogen-heavy blend—like 15-5-10 or 20-0-4—is often your best bet. Nitrogen fuels green growth, which is key as grasses wake up. However, if your soil test shows high phosphorus levels (common in our area), skip the middle number and focus on nitrogen and potassium. Slow-release fertilizers are ideal this time of year—they feed your lawn gradually without overwhelming it. Need help choosing? Fallas Landscape offers consultations to match your lawn’s needs with the perfect product.
Step 3: Timing Is Everything
Fertilize too early, and cold soil won’t absorb the nutrients; too late, and you’ll miss the prime growth window. Aim for mid-to-late March when daytime temps consistently hit the 60s and 70s. Water your lawn lightly a day or two before applying fertilizer—this preps the soil and prevents burn. Avoid fertilizing right before a big rain, though—North Texas spring storms can wash those nutrients straight into the storm drain instead of your grass.
Step 4: Apply Like a Pro
Even distribution is the name of the game. Use a broadcast spreader for larger lawns or a handheld spreader for smaller patches, and follow the fertilizer label’s recommended rate—usually about 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Walk in straight lines, overlapping slightly to avoid missed spots (or those dreaded zebra stripes). If you’re unsure about your technique, Fallas Landscape’s team can handle it for you with precision that only years of experience bring.
Step 5: Water It In
After spreading, give your lawn a light watering—about a quarter-inch—to help the fertilizer soak into the soil. Don’t overdo it; too much water dilutes the nutrients. Then, let nature (and your sprinkler system) take it from there. In a week or two, you’ll start seeing that rich green hue emerge.
Bonus Tips for North Texas Lawns
- Weed Control: March is also prime time for pre-emergent weed killers to stop crabgrass and dandelions before they sprout. Look for fertilizers with built-in weed control, but check compatibility with your grass type.
- Aeration: If your soil is compacted (hello, clay!), aerating before fertilizing helps nutrients reach the roots. Early March is a great time for this.
- Watch the Weather: North Texas springs can be unpredictable. If a late freeze pops up, hold off—cold-damaged grass doesn’t need fertilizer stress.
Let Fallas Landscape Take the Lead
Fertilizing might sound straightforward, but every lawn has its quirks. At Fallas Landscape (fallaslandscape.com), we’ve been turning North Texas yards into showpieces for years. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast needing guidance or prefer to hand the reins to pros, we’re here to help. Our team can test your soil, recommend the perfect fertilizer, and apply it with the care your lawn deserves—all while keeping your budget in mind.
March madness isn’t just for basketball—it’s for your lawn, too. With the right fertilizing approach, your North Texas yard can steal the show this spring. Ready to get started? Contact Fallas Landscape today, and let’s grow something amazing together.
