Usually you don’t apply fertilizer until your grass has started regrowing after the dormant winter season. You should usually mow your lawn two or three times before applying fertilizer. A soil test will help you out when you determine the fertilizer as well as any other amendments to add to your soil. Different types of lawn require different frequency and amounts of fertilizer. Read the package of your fertilizer and make sure you use the right amount for your lawn. In order to utilize the right amount you must know the square footage of your lawn. Don’t over fertilize!
Phosphorous tends to run high in Texas soils, get your soil tested and take the test to the location you purchase your fertilizer. They will help you choose the right fertilizer for your soil. Grass in the shade needs less fertilizer than grass in the sun, cut the rate in half for shaded areas. 50% of the nitrogen content in any fertilizer you use should be slow release. Make sure you irrigate one inch to one and one half inches right after applying fertilizer. If you don’t get your soil tested, according to the extension service 21-0-0 or 33-0-0 is typically a good basic fertilizer for this area.