If you’ve lived in Ocala or anywhere in Marion County, you already know our lawns don’t behave quite like lawns up north. The heat, humidity, and sudden rainstorms play a role – but the real troublemaker is the sandy soil under our feet.
Sandy soil drains fast, struggles to hold nutrients, and can leave grass looking thin or stressed. But with the right approach (and a little local know-how), you can grow a thick, healthy lawn here in Central Florida.
At Keith’s Lawn Care, we’ve been helping Ocala homeowners work with sandy soil for over 20 years. Here’s what you should know.
What Makes Ocala’s Sandy Soil So Difficult?
Most Ocala yards sit on coarse, quick-draining soil. While this helps prevent flooding, it also causes some common issues:
1. Water drains too quickly
Grass doesn’t get long-term moisture, so it dries out fast – especially in our summer heat.
2. Nutrients wash away
Fertilizer doesn’t stick around long enough to feed the grass. Without regular care, lawns become pale or patchy.
3. Difficulty maintaining thick turf
St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia can all grow well here – but not without consistent maintenance.
4. Weeds love sandy soil
Dollarweed, crabgrass, and spurge thrive in loose, dry soil.
These aren’t your fault – it’s just Florida soil behaving like Florida soil.
How to Improve Sandy Soil in Ocala
While you can’t change Central Florida soil completely, you can improve how it supports your lawn. Here are practical steps:
1. Add Organic Matter Regularly
Compost, mulch, and organic topdressings help sandy soil:
Hold more water
Retain nutrients
Support stronger root growth
At Keith’s Lawn Care, we often recommend topdressing during spring or fall for best results.
2. Use Slow-Release Fertilizers
Compost, mulch, and organic topdressings help sandy soil:
Hold more water
Retain nutrients
Support stronger root growth
At Keith’s Lawn Care, we often recommend topdressing during spring or fall for best results.
3. Water Deeply - But Not Too Often
With sandy soil:
Quick, shallow watering won’t help
You want deep watering 1–2 times per week (adjusting for rainfall)
This trains roots to grow deeper where moisture lasts longer.
4. Aerate the Lawn
Aeration creates channels that help:
Water soak in more evenly
Roots grow stronger
Nutrients move deeper into the soil
This is especially helpful for compacted areas or lawns that struggle to stay green.
5. Keep Up With Weed Control
Because weeds love sandy soil, consistent weed control is essential. A professional lawn service can treat weeds before they spread or damage turf.
How Keith’s Lawn Care Helps Ocala Homeowners Fix Sandy Soil Problems
For more than 20 years, our team has helped Ocala homeowners build greener, healthier lawns by tailoring care specifically to our sandy Central Florida soil. Here’s how we make a real difference:
Local fertilization programs designed for sandy soil
We use fertilizers that feed the lawn steadily, so nutrients don’t wash away after one heavy summer rain.
Proper mowing and edging that reduces stress
Sandy soil is sensitive to mowing height. We cut your grass at the ideal height for its turf type, helping it stay strong and green.
Soil health improvements through mulch, organic matter, and topdressing
These treatments help sandy soil hold moisture longer and support stronger root growth.
Weed control customized for Central Florida lawns
We’re familiar with the weeds that thrive in Ocala’s sandy soil and know how to keep them under control.
Irrigation checks and watering guidance
We help ensure your lawn gets just the right amount of water – not too much, not too little – which is essential when the soil drains so quickly.
Signs Your Sandy Soil Needs Professional Attention
Call a pro if you notice:
Constant brown patches
Thin or weak turf, even with watering
Soil that feels dry only hours after rain
A sudden increase in weeds
Grass roots that seem short or weak
These are often signs your soil needs improved nutrition, aeration, or a customized care plan.
Sandy Soil Doesn’t Have to Win - We Can Help Your Lawn Thrive
Sandy soil might be part of life here in Ocala and Marion County, but that doesn’t mean your lawn can’t look green and healthy. With the right care – and a team that understands our local conditions – your yard can be one of the best-looking on the block.
If you’re tired of fighting with sandy soil, let Keith’s Lawn Care take it off your hands. We’ll help you get the healthy, beautiful lawn you’ve been hoping for – the kind that stands strong in Central Florida weather.