![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_28452073635_931898775a_c.jpg\")
Beautiful front yard landscaping creates an excellent first impression for your guests and increases your property value. Whether you hire a landscaper or choose to DIY your next project, these 11 front lawn landscaping ideas will boost your curb appeal. In this article, we’ll cover flower beds, water features, outdoor lighting and much more – […]
\n","content":"\nBeautiful front yard landscaping creates an excellent first impression for your guests and increases your property value. Whether you hire a landscaper or choose to DIY your next project, these 11 front lawn landscaping ideas will boost your curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover flower beds, water features, outdoor lighting and much more – and highlight the pros and cons of each front yard landscaping idea.
\n\n\n\nWhether you want to save water or you just have a brown thumb, rock gardens are a low-maintenance front lawn landscape design that can survive in harsh environments. Rocks and pebbles work as a lawn substitute or as a focal point for your front yard. Stone will complement flower beds, ornamental grasses, succulents, and herbs.
\n\n\n\nVertical gardens are perfect for small front yards with limited garden space as they allow you to maximize even the smallest of patios, balconies and front porches. There are numerous vertical garden designs to choose from, including shelves, window boxes, hanging pots, and stackable planters.
\n\n\n\n![\"Flower](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_garden-and-front-stoep.jpg\")
Flower beds add colors and curb appeal to your front yard. Researchers at Texas A&M found people associate colorful landscapes with a better quality of life and improved moods. You can also save on buying floral arrangements by cutting your own flowers.
\n\n\n\nGround covers prevent erosion, prohibit weed growth, and also provide greenery and pops of color. Ornamental grasses offer texture and greenery.
\n\n\n\nEdible landscaping creates a beautiful and functional yard. Add color by planting an assortment of herbs, fruits, and vegetables. Penn State University has numerous front yard landscaping ideas for edible landscaping. Many flowers like alliums, marigolds, and honeysuckles are edible.
\n\n\n\nAdds color – Fruit trees and squash provide flowers before producing mature fruits. Berries and peppers provide a pop of color. Salad greens and herbs provide greenery.
\n\n\n\nAdds interest – Beans and other vining plants grow on arbors and fences and create interest with differing heights.
\n\n\n\n![\"landscape-lighting\"](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/outdoor-landscape-lighting-hero-shot-1024x670.jpg\")
Highlight a focal point in your garden with landscape lighting. Small solar lights will accentuate your front lawn landscaping and won’t raise your power bill.
\n\n\n\nThere’s a wide array of water features available for front yard landscaping. You’ll find simple fountains online or in stores that you can place on the front porch or nestle in your flower beds. You can add a koi pond to your front lawn landscape, if you’re willing to spend anywhere between $5,000 to $20,000, but a DIY fountain won’t cost much.
\n\n\n\n![\"Our](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_concrete_retaining_wall_in_walnut_creek_ca_built_by_retaining_wall_experts.jpg\")
Sloped lawns are prone to erosion. Researchers at Oregon State University recommend retaining walls to help manage soil and water runoff. They can be built to accentuate a flower bed, to make sloping lawns usable, or as borders along homes and patios.
\n\n\n\nAdding a pergola to your front yard gives you additional living space. These lattice-topped structures come in a number of styles and provide a cover for your patio, without completely blocking out the sun. Pergolas range in price depending on whether you build it yourself or have it custom-built.
\n\n\n\nPatios are great at providing an outdoor living space. They can be made from various materials, including concrete, wood, or pavers.
\n\n\n\nDurable – A concrete patio will last from 20 to 30 years. A paver patio that expands and contracts in the winter and summer can last up to 50 years. Consider the cost of installation and maintenance when choosing materials for a patio.
\n\n\n\nAdds Value – A well-designed and built patio can add up to 10% to a home’s value.
\n\n\n\nNeed maintenance – Patios are an additional space that will need routine cleaning via power-washing. If not properly installed, patios can easily crack.
\n\n\n\nCost – A patio for the average home runs about $4,000, depending on its size. The price can go up to as much as $8,000 for higher-end stone and pavers.
\n\n\n\n![\"landscape-path-pathway-grass-lawn-walkway\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_landscape-path-pathway-grass-lawn-walkway-1149050-pxherecom.jpg\")
Paths and walkways allow access to different areas of your yard without trampling on grass or flower beds. If these walkways are well-lit, you don’t have to worry about stepping on any critters at night – or breaking your ankle or leg in a fall.
\n\n\n\nCreate paths and walkways throughout your front lawn using pavers, concrete, stones, bricks, gravel, or mulch.
\n\n\n\nAdds to front yard design – A pathway will accentuate your front yard landscaping, leading people to the focal points.
\n\n\n\nMost are easy to install – Gravel, stepping stones, and mulch pathways are easy DIY projects that you can complete in a day. Poured concrete paths are harder to install but make it easier to shovel snow in the winter.
\n\n\n\nWeeds – Weeds grow between bricks and stepping stones. Concrete and pavers are more labor intensive, but it’s easier to remove weeds between sections.
\n\n\n\nErosion – Mulch and gravel may wash away in heavy rains. Pavers and stone are more durable but sometimes become slippery when wet.
\n\n\n\nCan Crack – Fluctuating temperatures in the winter can cause concrete and some brick pavers to crack.
\n\n\n\nThese 11 front-yard landscaping ideas will boost your property value, but they will require upkeep and maintenance.
\n\n\n\n1. Does front lawn landscaping increase my home’s value?
\n\n\n\nYes. Researchers at Virginia Tech found that landscaping significantly increases the value of homes, resulting in a higher selling price, anywhere from 5.5 to 11.4% These increases varied by geographic location and landscaping projects.
\n\n\n\n2. When is the best time of year to begin front lawn landscaping?
\n\n\n\nPlanting trees, shrubs, and perennial plants in the fall allows them to establish their roots before spring. Installing non-organic landscaping, such as hardscaping, can take place any time during the year. Winter isn’t a good time to install retaining walls because ice and snow may affect the integrity of structures like retaining walls.
\n\n\n\n3. Will my front yard provide curb appeal only in spring and summer?
\n\n\n\nNot necessarily. Choose plants with different bloom cycles and foliage colors to create front lawn landscaping that’s visually stimulating year-round.
\n\n\n\nEvergreens like boxwood provide greenery year-round. Tulips, daffodils, zinnias, roses, and hydrangea bloom in the spring and summer. Aster, begonias, pansy, and hellebores bloom at different times in the fall and winter.
\n\n\n\nNeed more ideas to increase your curb appeal? We can help you find a landscaping professional near you to help.
Main photo credit: pxHere | CC0 1.1
Getting rid of weeds doesn’t have to involve toxic chemicals or break the bank. Herbicides pose health risks to humans and the environment and can harm pets. On the other hand, the organic herbicides you can buy at the store and online are expensive. The solution is homemade weed killers! Keep reading to find out […]
\n","content":"\nGetting rid of weeds doesn’t have to involve toxic chemicals or break the bank. Herbicides pose health risks to humans and the environment and can harm pets. On the other hand, the organic herbicides you can buy at the store and online are expensive. The solution is homemade weed killers! Keep reading to find out how to make a homemade weed killer that actually works.
\n\n\n\nThese options kill weeds without exposing you and your loved ones to poisons that can have detrimental effects, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
\n\n\nA vinegar solution is probably the simplest, most effective, and most popular homemade weed killer you can make. Here’s how to do it with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/white-vinegar.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NatureFriend from Pixabay / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIngredients:
\n\n\n\n— 1 gallon of white vinegar (make sure it’s at least 5% acetic acid)
— 1 tablespoon of dish soap
— 1 cup of salt
How to Use: Pour the vinegar into a spray bottle and add the table salt. Mix them until the salt dissolves. Next, add the dishwashing liquid, which helps the solution stick to the weeds. You can use Castile soap for an all-natural option. Make sure the solution is well-mixed, then spray it directly onto the weeds you want to kill.
\n\n\n\nVinegar and salt can kill any plants, including grass, so be careful not to get the solution on plants you want to keep.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"apple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/apple-cider-vinegar-next-to-apples-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: tylim / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIngredients:
\n\n\n\n— ½ gallon apple cider vinegar
— ¼ cup salt
— 1 teaspoon dish soap
How to Use: Pour the apple cider vinegar into a large spray bottle. Mix in the salt until it dissolves completely, then mix in the dish soap. Apply the mixture directly to the weeds. This vinegar weed killer will destroy other plants, too. So, be careful when targeting weeds in your flower beds or on your lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe acetic acid in the vinegar breaks down the plant’s foliage by extracting moisture, killing the leaves. This natural weed killer works best on young and small weeds.
\n\n\n\nVegetation with deep taproots, like dandelions, may survive treatment. The top growth of these types of plants may be the only part that is killed. If the plants are very young and the roots undeveloped, the weed killer may work.
\n\n\n\nHerbicidal vinegar, which is 20% acetic acid, is a better solution for larger weeds and perennials. Weeds like crabgrass are better controlled with multiple treatments of herbicidal vinegar. However, herbicidal vinegar can burn your skin and eyes, so be careful when applying it.
\n\n\n\nTable salt also pulls out moisture. It contains acetic acid, too. Adding it to your vinegar solution improves the weed killer’s ability to dry out foliage.
\n\n\n\nLiquid dish soap acts as a surfactant that reduces the surface tension and allows the homemade weed killer to spread more evenly across and stick to the leaves, allowing it to penetrate the plant more effectively.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"using](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/using-spray-to-kill-a-weed-in-mulch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: killerb10 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nSpraying during a sunny day helps the acetic acid work more effectively. Spray directly on the targeted weeds. But remember that this solution is non-selective, so in addition to killing most broadleaf weeds, it can also kill other plants. Be careful not to get the solution on your grass or other landscape plants.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlthough the cons of using a homemade vinegar solution are not as severe as using herbicides with harsh chemicals like glyphosate, there are some things to keep in mind. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of using a vinegar solution to kill weeds.
\n\n\n\n| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Less harmful to humans and pets than commercial herbicides. | ✗ Vinegar with 11% or more acetic acid can burn the skin and cause severe eye injuries, including blindness. |
| ✓ Effective on most young broadleaf weeds. | ✗ Kills any plant it makes contact with. |
| ✓ If organic dish soap (i.e. Castile soap) is used, the solution has no synthetic chemicals. | ✗ Some dish soaps have synthetic ingredients that are harmful to the environment. |
| ✓ Acetic acid is biodegradable. | ✗ The typical 5% acetic acid concentration may not kill larger or more established weeds. |
| ✓ Very effective for weed control on patios, gravel, and sidewalks. | ✗ Multiple applications are typically needed. |
| ✓ You most likely already have all the required ingredients and won’t need to spend any additional money. | ✗ Only kills the foliage it is sprayed on and not the roots, meaning new weeds can sprout again unless you manually remove the roots. |
![\"table](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/table-salt-spilled-out-on-a-table.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sebalos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nHere are some other natural weed killers you can make using ingredients you have in your home already or can easily purchase at the grocery store.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSalt can kill weeds on its own or in a spray solution with water. You can use either table salt or rock salt. Learn how in our article on how to use salt to kill weeds.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPut a pot of water on the stove, let it boil, pour it into something with a spout – like a teapot – and soak the weeds you want to kill. Apply it to the leaves of the offending weeds and allow it to soak into the roots.
\n\n\n\nIf you have to pour the boiling water from a container without a spout, pour it on weeds in areas away from other plants, like walkways or cracks. That way, if the boiling water splashes or lands in a wider area than on the weeds, you will not damage other plants.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUse a ratio of 2 tablespoons of alcohol to 1 quart of water and put the mixture in a spray bottle. Spot-treat the problem plants by spraying the mixture directly on the weeds. The solution kills the plant by draining moisture from the foliage, much like vinegar and salt.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Hands](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/crabgrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sergii Petruk / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIf you get to the weeds when they are young and there are just a few of them, you can avoid the use of any weed killer. Except, of course, yourself. You can pull up weeds when they have just a few leaves and small root systems.
\n\n\n\nWeeds are easier to remove manually if the soil is wet, so water the lawn or garden before weeding or wait for a rainy day. When the soil is moist, use your hand, a weeding tool, or a garden trowel to pull up as much of the root system as possible. If you don’t get all the roots, the weeds can grow back.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCan you use homemade weed killers on weeds in grass?
\n\n\n\nYes, you can use homemade weed killers to kill weeds in grass, but you have to apply them carefully. DIY weed killers are non-selective, meaning they kill all plants they come in contact with, not just weeds. When applying homemade weed killers to lawn weeds, use a spray bottle to target the weeds directly, and get as little of it on your grass as possible.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre homemade weed killers safe for pets?
\n\n\n\nYes, the homemade weed killers on this list are safe to use around pets and kids, too. See our list of the best pet-safe weed killers and our article on how to choose pet-safe weed killers to learn which commercial herbicides are also safe for pets.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIs there a DIY weed and feed?
\n\n\n\nCorn gluten meal is an organic alternative to weed and feed, although most homeowners won’t have this ingredient readily on hand.
You can buy organic herbicides that contain corn gluten meal as an active ingredient, or you can purchase corn gluten meal on its own. It acts as a pre-emergent and keeps weed seeds from germinating. It also contains nitrogen to fertilize the lawn. Corn gluten meal must be applied before seeds germinate, or it can cause the weeds to grow. Use the meal when it is going to be dry for at least two days. Multiple applications are typically required.
Commercial herbicides like Roundup contain dangerous chemicals. You can protect yourself, your family, your pets, the environment, and your grass and garden with safer homemade weed killer solutions. Of course, prevention is the best option. Practicing good seasonal lawn care and garden maintenance habits can help keep weeds at bay.
Whether you are using chemicals or DIY options, weed-killing and lawn maintenance is time-consuming and takes planning to be effective. Connect with a local lawn care professional who can help you manage weeds and keep your lawn and landscape healthy.
Main Photo Credit: AprylRED / Canva Pro / License
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\n","content":"\nAfter completing the aeration process, your lawn is primed for optimal growth. Knowing the proper post-aeration care is essential to maximize its benefits. In this article, we’ll walk you through pro tips on what to do after aerating your lawn, including watering, overseeding, and fertilizing.
\n\n\n\nLet’s dive into the article and uncover the secrets to post-aeration success!
\n\n\n![\"sprinkler](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sprinkler.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lya_Cattel / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nAfter aerating your grass, it is crucial to water it properly. Aim to water your lawn within 24 to 48 hours after aeration. The newly created holes in the soil allow water to penetrate deeper, reaching the grassroots more effectively. Watering at this time helps the roots establish and take advantage of the improved soil conditions.
\n\n\n\nKeep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to water waste and shallow root growth. Use sprinklers or a soaker hose to distribute water across your yard uniformly.
\n\n\n\nWater in the early morning before 10 a.m. or late afternoon to reduce evaporation and allow grass blades to dry before dark, lowering the risk of lawn disease. Regularly check the soil moisture level and alter your watering schedule accordingly.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"grass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/overseed-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Elena Photo / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nAerating your lawn provides the ideal environment for overseeding. Overseeding involves putting new grass seed over an existing lawn to fill in thin or bare spots and increase overall density. Choose a quality seed combination that fits your type of grass, or get advice from a local lawn care professional.
\n\n\n\nRake the soil lightly before overseeding to remove the top layer for optimal seed-to-soil contact. Spread the grass seed uniformly. Then rake the area lightly after seeding to cover the seeds with a thin coating of soil. Maintain continuous moisture in newly sown areas by watering daily until the seeds germinate and establish.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Seed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/seed-spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jon Rehg / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nYour lawn will be better able to absorb nutrients after aeration. Aim to fertilize within a few days of aerating, as the newly created holes allow the nutrients to reach the grassroots more efficiently.
\n\n\n\nA high-quality fertilizer can supply the food required for maximum growth. Look for a fertilizer with a balanced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) ratio appropriate for your lawn’s grass type.
\n\n\n\nRead our guide on How to Choose the Lawn Fertilizer to make the right choice for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nTiming of fertilizer applications according to the grass species in your lawn is also important. Read our guide on When and How to Fertilize your Lawn for a detailed view.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: To avoid overfertilization, follow the recommendations on the fertilizer package for the recommended application rate and frequency. Consider using a slow-release fertilizer, which releases nutrients gradually over time and reduces the danger of fertilizer burn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/pulled-weeds-from-lawn-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Cleardesign1 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nKeep a watchful eye out for common lawn weeds and promptly address any unwanted invaders. Aeration creates openings in the soil, making it easier for weed seeds to germinate. Use weed control methods like hand-pulling, spot-treatment with herbicides, or natural weed control options.
\n\n\n\nConsider using pre-emergent herbicides in the spring and fall to control stubborn weeds from sprouting. These products form a layer on the soil’s surface that prevents weeds from developing.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"dog](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/749de019-9871-4cb0-b5d1-b034aea7bffa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bk_Kang / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nLimiting foot traffic and keeping pets away from the treated areas immediately after aerating your grass is critical. The holes left by aeration require time to heal, allowing the grass to grow strong, deep roots. Walking or playing on the grass too soon after aeration might disrupt root growth, reducing the overall benefits of aeration.
\n\n\n\nTo avoid unintentional foot traffic, consider installing a small temporary fence or posting signage to draw attention to newly aerated areas. Redirect your pets to different parts of the yard or keep them on a leash until the grass has recovered completely. You can gradually reinstate regular foot traffic and pet activities after a week or so once the grass has had time to regrow.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-14.jpg\")
Photo Credit: KathrynHatashitaLee / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nKeeping up with a consistent lawn maintenance program is critical for your aerated lawn’s long-term health and attractiveness. Your lawn care routine should include not only proper watering and fertilization but also mowing at the right height for your grass type, soil testing at least every few years, clearing debris and thatch, and inspecting for disease regularly.
\n\n\n\nSet your mower to the proper height for your grass type once it reaches a height of 4 inches after aeration. Only cut up to one-third of the grass’s length in a single mowing session. This promotes healthy root growth and protects the grass from stress. The ideal mowing height and frequency for the most common grasses are listed in the table below:
\n\n\n\n| Grass Species | Mowing Height (inches) | Mowing Frequency (times per week) |
| Zoysia | 1-2 | 1-2 |
| St. Augustine | 3.5-4 | 1-2 |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2.5-3.5 | 1 |
| Fine fescue | 2.5-4 | 1-2 |
| Tall fescue | 2-3 | 1-2 |
| Perennial ryegrass | 1.5-2.5 | 1 |
| Bermuda | 1.5-2.5 | 1-2 |
Remove fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris from the lawn as soon as possible since they can suffocate the grass and provide a breeding ground for pests and fungal diseases.
\n\n\n\nIn terms of bugs, keep an eye out for indicators of infestation, such as brown patches or chewed grass blades. Treat any pest problems with appropriate insecticides or, if necessary, seek expert help.
\n\n\n\nTest your soil at least once every three years to determine its acidity or alkalinity level. The pH of the soil influences the availability of nutrients to the grass. If the pH of your lawn is too high or too low, consider adding lime to raise it or sulfur to lower it.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow soon can I mow my lawn after aerating?
\n\n\n\nIt is best to wait a few days after aerating before mowing your lawn. It gives the grass time to recuperate and the soil time to settle. If the grass has grown too long, you can softly trim it, taking care not to cut too low and stress the grass.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShould I rake up the plugs of soil that aeration has left on the lawn?
\n\n\n\nNo, you don’t have to remove the soil plugs from your lawn. If you leave them out, they will gradually break down into the soil, adding nutrients and organic matter that will help your grass in the long run.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat are the different methods of lawn aeration?
\n\n\n\nTwo standard methods for lawn aeration are spike aeration, which pokes holes in the soil, and core aeration, which removes 2 to 3-inch plugs of soil. Both methods offer benefits, but core aeration is generally preferred for better results.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen is the right time to aerate my lawn?
\n\n\n\nIt is best advised to aerate a cool-season lawn in fall and a warm-season lawn in late spring to early summer. For more detailed information, visit our article When and How to Aerate Your Lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow long will the advantages of aeration last?
\n\n\n\nAeration can provide benefits for several months, but it is not permanent. Aeration should be done regularly, at least once every two or three years, to keep the soil loose. The frequency might vary depending on soil compaction, grass type, and general soil condition.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLawn aeration boosts nutrient absorption and encourages healthy root growth by reducing soil compaction. Sometimes homeowners might need help figuring out what to do after aerating the lawn. But by reviewing this article, you can figure it out and plan ahead. If you are still trying to decide whether to do the post-aeration chores on your own, you can ask for professional advice.
\n\n\n\nContact a local lawn care service provider and get help to ensure your lawn thrives and remains lush after you aerate it.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: ArtBoyMB / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"What to Do After Aerating Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/1789c/aerated-lawn-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/107df/aerated-lawn-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/293e9/aerated-lawn-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/f2cbb/aerated-lawn-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/1789c/aerated-lawn-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/c26c2/aerated-lawn-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/1dd6e/aerated-lawn-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/67b76/aerated-lawn-1.webp 320w,\n/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/8df11/aerated-lawn-1.webp 500w,\n/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/98a65/aerated-lawn-1.webp 800w,\n/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/1dd6e/aerated-lawn-1.webp 960w,\n/static/cba6b29f378cb11e3f1bd33484c919c3/3cc96/aerated-lawn-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"What to Do After Aerating Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Read our guide to get familiar with what to do after aerating your lawn to get the most out of your lawn aeration."}}},{"node":{"id":"26ba59cd-d2e7-522a-9533-8adbce1b8714","slug":"how-to-mow-a-lawn","path":"/blog/how-to-mow-a-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Alison is a Midwesterner through and through, and loves to spend her time baking and reading. Always at home in the dirt, as a kid, Alison raised a vegetable garden with her dad, and flower gardens with her mom.","name":"Alison Hoover","id":"2d4efd75-80f4-58b0-b715-bcefffb32f2f","path":"/author/alison-hoover/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/54d52d00b8587655742aec8164f06427?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"August 11th, 2022","excerpt":"Knowing how to mow a lawn properly is crucial to the health of your grass. Cutting the grass might seem self-explanatory, but there are some rules and tricks that will ensure your yard is the envy of the neighborhood. We’ve broken down the process into six steps and included some tips for specific grass types. […]
\n","content":"\nKnowing how to mow a lawn properly is crucial to the health of your grass. Cutting the grass might seem self-explanatory, but there are some rules and tricks that will ensure your yard is the envy of the neighborhood. We’ve broken down the process into six steps and included some tips for specific grass types.
\n\n\n\nContents:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNot all lawns are alike, and the way you mow your lawn depends on your grass type and the shape and size of your yard. But no matter what kind of lawn you have, following these six steps will keep your grass healthy and thriving:
\n\n\n\nThe time of day you mow is just as important as the season. Mid-morning and late afternoon are the best times to cut your grass.
\n\n\n\nAvoid mowing at daybreak because the morning dew forces the mower to work harder, and the moisture tears the grass blades. Mowing in the evening can be stressful on your grass as it won’t have time to recover.
\n\n\n\nDon’t mow after a rain shower either; wet grass will dull the lawn mower blades and can create ruts, uneven cuts, and clumping on your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_800px-electric_lawn_mower_underside_img_5501-1.jpg\")
Sharp blades are essential for a clean and easy cut. Dull blades tear your grass, leading to brown grass and increased disease. Sharp blades that cleanly slice through your grass can help it regrow and repair faster.
\n\n\n\nYou can sharpen the blades on your own or hire a professional. If you decide to sharpen them on your own, always remove the mower’s spark plug before you remove and replace the mower blades.
\n\n\n\n![\"Sticks](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_img_1651-1-1024x768.jpg\")
Remove any sticks, garbage, or forgotten toys. Debris can get caught in the mower and fly out, injuring someone or damaging property. Mowing over sticks and other items will wear down your mower’s blades much faster.
\n\n\n\nDon’t get too close to landscaping elements or children’s play areas. Removing the grass from these locations can be done with an edger or string trimmer. This is much safer and worth the extra time.
\n\n\n\nCutting in the same pattern every time you mow compacts the soil and flattens the grass blades. This prevents the lawn from getting enough water and air, ultimately halting growth.
\n\n\n\nAlternating mowing patterns can be as simple as cutting east to west one week and north to south the next. This is also an opportunity to get creative and stripe your lawn or create a checkerboard pattern and make it look like an MLB playing field.
\n\n\n\nWant the look of a baseball field without all the work? We can help you find a lawn care professional to stripe and design patterns in your lawn.
\n\n\n\nCheck your mower’s height before starting. Place your mower on a flat and firm surface and measure up from the ground to your mower blade. Set the lever to the desired height. You’ll find the desired height for each grass type in the table below.
\n\n\n\nWhen your grass reaches 3-5 inches tall, you should cut it down incrementally instead of all at once. It’s best to cut your grass by a third of its height each time. This is known as the one-third rule.
\n\n\n\nFollowing the one-third rule helps keep your grass green, prevents soil compaction, and increases your lawn’s defense against pests and disease. Cutting to the right height also limits injury to the crown of the grass blades, where nutrients are stored.
\n\n\n\n![\"grass](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_grass_clippings-1024x444.jpg\")
Grass clippings are an excellent mulch for your lawn. The chopped grass blades act as a natural fertilizer and return nitrogen to the soil, so don’t bag them. Contrary to popular belief, grass clippings do not contribute to lawn thatch.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses tend to sprout faster than warm-season grass types, but the mowing frequencies and heights vary according to the species.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses begin to grow as the weather hits 65° and thrive in temperatures between 80 and 95 degrees. These types of grasses grow fastest during the summer.
\n\n\n\nHere’s the recommended height for common warm-season grasses and how often they need mowing.
\n\n\n\n| Warm-Season Grass | Recommended Height | Recommended Mowing Frequency |
| Buffalograss | 2” – 3” | weekly |
| Dichondra | 1.5” – 2” | bi-weekly |
| Centipede Grass | 1” – 1.5” | every 5-7 days |
| Zoysia | 1.5 – 3” | every 7-10 days |
| Bermudagrass | 1” – 1.5” | every 5-7 days |
Cool-season grasses begin to grow as the weather reaches 60° and enjoy temperatures between 60° – 75°. This means the peak growing season is in spring and fall. When growth slows during the summer, you may only need to mow every other week.
\n\n\n\n| Cool-Season Grass | Recommended Height | Recommended Mowing Frequency |
| Perennial Ryegrass | 1.5”- 2.5” | every 5-7 days |
| Tall Fescue | 2” – 3” | every 7-10 days |
| Kentucky Bluegrass | 2.5“ – 3” | weekly |
| Red Fescue | 3 – 3.5“ | every 7-10 days |
Mowing Tips
\n\n\n\nIn addition to the six steps listed above, these mowing tips will help make sure you mow your lawn properly:
\n\n\n\nFinding the right lawnmower is one of the best ways to make lawn care easier. Consider the amount of money you want to spend, the size of your yard, and specific conveniences you’d like.
\n\n\n\nMost lawns should be mowed once a week, but some should be cut bi-weekly especially cool-season grasses that grow quickly during the spring and fall. Slower growing lawns should be cut every 7 to 10 days. To conserve water, mow less often during a dry spell.
\n\n\n\nThe one-third rule is the best gauge for how often to mow your grass. Frequency is a balance between the health of your grass and the look of your lawn. Grass is a sensitive plant, and mowing too often can diminish its ability to thrive.
\n\n\n\nIt’s tempting to mow new grass as soon as you see it sprout, but that can damage the lawn. Once the new grass hits an inch above the recommended mowing height, you can give your new lawn a cut.
\n\n\n\nIf you wait long enough, that first mow can help you grow a robust and healthy lawn with less risk for soil compaction.
\n\n\n\nNearly 7,000 people a year are injured by lawn mowers. These injuries can be avoided by adhering to basic safety rules, including:
\n\n\n\nIt really doesn’t matter. Most people find it best to mow first as it cleans up the majority of growth and makes it easier to see the edging.
\n\n\n\nSome people find it better to edge first, so you have a better view of the landscaping and other obstacles. This can make it easier to avoid them while mowing.
\n\n\n\nTypically you will overlap by a few inches, but it depends on the width of your mower’s deck. Overlap as much as needed to ensure you don’t miss any spots.
\n\n\n\nStart with a string trimmer or weed eater and remove about one-third of the growth. Repeat this process a few days later, and then use a mower to reach the desired height.
\n\n\n\n
Worried about safety, mowing correctly, or finding the right tools? We can help you find a lawn care professional to take care of all your mowing, edging, trimming, and mulching.
Main photo credit: Brenda Stuart | Wikilawn
\n","title":"How to Mow a Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/1789c/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/107df/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/293e9/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/f2cbb/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/1789c/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/a2a79/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/1dd6e/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/67b76/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.webp 320w,\n/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/8df11/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.webp 500w,\n/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/98a65/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.webp 800w,\n/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/1dd6e/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.webp 960w,\n/static/bd24dfa2a6b06ab81e1556e9330b8b35/7aa54/rsz_jjack_mowing-1024x768-1.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Mow a Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Mowing your grass correctly gives you a dense lawn that can fight off disease, weeds, and pests. We’ll show you how to mow a lawn to keep it healthy and green."}}},{"node":{"id":"f725b102-82bb-57be-a1bc-8bf8c58376b0","slug":"best-grass-types-houston","path":"/lawn-care/tx/houston/best-grass-types-houston/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"656604f4-56e7-55ed-8540-cc48be40652a","name":"Houston","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/houston/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 29th, 2022","excerpt":"Want a lush, green lawn that will last most of the year? The key is selecting the grass type that will grow best in our humid, subtropical climate. Here’s a list of the four best grass types for Houston: Bermudagrass Seashore Paspalum St. Augustinegrass Zoysiagrass 1. Bermudagrass Popular for its sun-loving, salt-tolerant makeup, Bermudagrass has […]
\n","content":"\nWant a lush, green lawn that will last most of the year? The key is selecting the grass type that will grow best in our humid, subtropical climate. Here’s a list of the four best grass types for Houston:
\n\n\n\nPopular for its sun-loving, salt-tolerant makeup, Bermudagrass has a coarse to a medium-fine texture. Its wide leaf ranges in color from light green to dark green, depending on the cultivar (or type).
\n\n\n\nClassification: Bermudagrass is a warm-season grass.
Spreads by: Stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems).
Shade tolerance: Bermudagrass prefers full sun at all times.
Drought tolerance: High. Regular rainfall should be enough to water it. This type will go dormant during extended dry periods.
Foot traffic tolerance: Its sturdiness withstands high levels of foot traffic.
Maintenance needs: High. Bermudagrass requires monthly fertilization during the summer. Water as needed to the top 4 to 6 inches of soil. Thatch buildup is a threat.
Recommended mowing height: Mow to a height of 1 to 2 inches once or twice a week to keep up with its incessant growth rate.
Also resilient in saltwater environments is seashore paspalum. Great for waterfront properties, this type is low-growing and has pointy, medium-coarse blades and a blue-green hue.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass.
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes.
Shade tolerance: Prefers full sun, but can withstand shade better than Bermudagrass.
Drought tolerance: Low. Seashore paspalum prefers very moist growing environments. Due to its high saline tolerance, you can use saltwater in irrigation.
Foot traffic tolerance: High. Seashore paspalum’s dense turf stands up well to heavy foot traffic.
Maintenance needs: Requires little fertilization throughout the growing season. Over-fertilizing can lead to scalping, which exposes the grass’s roots, opening it up to disease, stress, and stunted growth.
Recommended mowing height: For a well-manicured, dense lawn, mow to a height of 1 inch.
With its dark green color and curved, wide leaf, St. Augustinegrass is another favorite among Houstonians. This salt-resistant grass is one of the most selected options for lawns in the Houston area.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass.
Spreads by: Stolons.
Shade tolerance: Unlike most other warm-season types, St. Augustinegrass is able to thrive in shade.
Drought tolerance: Some degree of drought tolerance, but will begin to show stress during long periods of dryness.
Foot traffic tolerance: Light. Regular lawn foot traffic is no problem.
Maintenance needs: Fertilize every eight to 10 weeks and recycle grass clippings to help provide nutrients to this type of lawn. If rainfall isn’t enough, water to a soil depth of 6 inches when the grass is showing signs of dullness and stress. Over-watering and over-fertilizing can lead to thatch problems.
Recommended mowing height: Mow to a height of 2.5 inches.
Zoysiagrass is a popular choice because of its low-maintenance nature. There are many varieties, but Zoysia japonica is one of the best grass types for Houston Lawns. It has a high salt tolerance, pointy leaf blades, and a light- to medium-green color. It turns brown in early winter, going dormant soon after the first frost in November.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass.
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes.
Shade tolerance: Moderate shade won’t bother this turf, but it does grow best in full sun and temperatures of 80 degrees or hotter.
Drought tolerance: Zoysia can withstand periods of drought, but as a dry period lingers, it will go dormant and turn brown. Once watered, it will revert to its green color once again.
Foot traffic tolerance: Zoysiagrass grows well in high-traffic areas.
Maintenance needs: Low. Fertilize with about two pounds of nitrogen a year, and water about 1 inch a week during the growing season.
Recommended mowing height: Keep mower blades sharpened to tackle these stiff leaves, and cut to a height of 1 to 2 inches weekly.
1. When is the best time to plant grass in Houston?
\n\n\n\nEarly March to late May, when the temperature is between 65 and 75 degrees. This is the best time for warm-season grasses to germinate and become established in time for the first frost.
\n\n\n\n2. Can I plant a cool-season grass in Houston?
\n\n\n\nYes, but you should wait until September when the ground is a bit cooler (about 50 degrees.) Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue will give you a greener lawn in the winter, but will not do well in the heat and humidity of the summer.
\n\n\n\n3. Is there such a thing as a no mow grass for Houston?
\n\n\n\nYes, buffalograss is one of the easiest grasses to care for. It’s one of the best grass types for Houston since It only needs occasional mowing and is extremely drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t have the time or energy to replant or reseed your lawn, we’ll find a local lawn care pro to get the job done for you.
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\n","content":"\nLawn Love. Most customers absolutely love it. Our Lawn Love review looks at the lawn care company’s services, prices, customer reviews, competitors, and more to help you make a decision.
\n\n\n\nBut first, why is Wikilawn reviewing Lawn Love? We’re sizing up one of the big dogs in the lawn care services space to help you choose your lawn care provider. This review is also a chance for us internally to see how Lawn Love stacks up against Wikilawn.
\n\n\n\nOur conclusion: Lawn Love is overall a great convenient option if you want mowing and basic services. If you need something like a large landscaping job, it’s probably not for you.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nLawn Love is one of the major players in the lawn care service space, along with LawnStarter, Wikilawn, and GreenPal. Lawn Love makes it easy to book lawn care services in minutes via its website or by phone.
\n\n\n\nIn a 2019 interview, Lawn Love founder Jeremy Yamaguchi said he believed San Diego-based Lawn Love could do for yard care what Uber did for ride-sharing – make it fast, accessible and easy.
\n\n\n\n“Traditionally, consumers have had to wait for a lawn care worker to physically come to their property, offer a quote and schedule the service,” he said. “It can take weeks to get the job done after initial contact was made. We’re excited to be bringing modern lawn care to homeowners.”
\n\n\n\nLawn Love puts a high-tech spin on the normally low-tech business of lawn care and makes comparing quotes and booking a service.
\n\n\n\nStep 1: From the home page, enter your name, street address, and phone number and click “See price.”
\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zrG8zUE4TpTjxQt5CIdGQYTwCI0FxHfnqmohOcZSpEMr7hnqSUw9ausPaZi8WequvcuJS1qqzQZ3u1JOFLec_r8N4h0cICvEwVm3MyPke56Di99TY9lnNgBN3zVanSE7bFvmIg9W-RLORbYlGF3fAJSIsagsUR8vQ-l_3vT4VKOGP_HRkqC1InFrWvtZmg\")
Step 2: Enter your personal and billing information in the form. Select your mowing frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly).
\n\n\n\nStep 3: Provide details about your property to help Lawn Love match you with the best service provider.
\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/r5HzxeP-I0_Sz7cxMySUwSZhQUTLB4iiIyWo6wae2NGl7st5METfo9NUPPM3DgoT9FHZIWHIbr64yP4SQZZtrNZoAegdJNDTymdje0-sQ9KaULzx_0GH4yxrrURAaEFbCy36RyDAq2mJty00V87oi3rebebqiP74WeRGzWqqb5ayqz3q59VpDSg1AHaasQ\")
Step 4: Plug in your payment information. Note: Lawn Love accepts only credit or debit card payments.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners require more than just quality lawn mowing, gutter cleaning, and leaf removal. Lawn Love provides more than a dozen services to help you maintain your green oasis year-round.
\n\n\n\nHere is a look at the main ones:
\n\n\n\n| Yard Services | Weed Services |
| Lawn Mowing | Weed Control |
| Edging | Organic Weed Control |
| Aeration | Pre-emergent Weed Services |
| Fertilization | Outdoor Services |
| Seeding | Gutter Cleaning and Installation |
| Yard Cleanup | Landscaping |
| Leaf Removal | Landscape Design |
Lawn Love uses local real estate records to calculate the size of your property and then generates a price quote.
\n\n\n\nIt’s difficult to provide an exact price for mowing services because there are so many variables, but a good range for an average, quarter-acre yard is $29 to $65. That includes edging and blowing grass clippings off patios and walkways.
\n\n\n\nSometimes, first-time Lawn Love customers can take advantage of a $19 first-time mowing special.
\n\n\n\nUnlike most of its competitors, Lawn Love offers at least some general guidance on what you can expect to pay for certain services. (Of course, your actual price will vary based on your yard size.):
\n\n\n\n$30 – $50 for bi-weekly mowing and trimming service
\n\n\n\n$35 – $50 for bi-weekly mowing and periodic fertilization
\n\n\n\n$80 – $120 for aeration service
\n\n\n\n$60 – $150 for leaf cleanup
\n\n\n\nWorth noting: Lawn Love’s lawn care pros don’t bag grass clippings. They may if you request it, but it’ll probably cost slightly more.
\n\n\n\nAlso worth noting: Lawn Love adds a Long Grass Fee for grass that is between 6 and 12 inches high. This is pretty standard practice in the industry. The Long Grass Fee can be 50% to 100% on top of the basic mowing price.
\n\n\n\nIt’s nearly impossible here to quote an average price for each outdoor service because the prices vary depending upon the size of your home or property, the type of work you need done, the region in which you live, and other factors.
\n\n\n\nLawn Love has built in safeguards to protect customers from shoddy work and unreliable contractors.
\n\n\n\nUser reviews are helpful for assessing customers’ satisfaction, and Lawn Love gets generally high marks from its customers.
\n\n\n\nHere is a random sampling of Lawn Love user reviews:
\n\n\n\nAffordable and Flexible: “My service provider was very professional and friendly. They took the time to do the job right and were on time, affordable, and flexible. I love the different options: weekly, bi-weekly, or even monthly. It was the best service I’ve ever had.” – George / Trustpilot
Online Scheduling: “I love Lawn Love’s service. I can conveniently schedule service online, and the pricing is more reasonable than most places. The crews are professional and proficient. I will keep using Lawn Love.” – Christie C. / REVIEWS.io
\n\n\n\nUnclear Booking Process: “I found Lawn Love on Google. Their online booking was a tad unclear, but the actual service was great! They were super fast. I got a text that they were on the way, and the crew did a fantastic job.” – Kristen / Trustpilot
\n\n\n\nDisappointed: “I was hoping with the mowing and maintenance and trimming that the yellow flowers would be trimmed in the front but, that wasn’t done or anything in the front. The backyard grass was uneven so I was hoping it would be an even cut but, now I have uneven low grass with bald spots.” – Priscilla / Trustpilot
\n\n\n\nLawn Love customers like the customer support and convenient online scheduling, but most wish Lawn Love’s sign-up process was a little clearer.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nThere are many affordable on-demand lawn care service providers. Here is a look at Lawn Love and its competitors, LawnStarter, GreenPal, and Wikilawn:
\n\n\n\n![](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wC5V5lUJCCGOJvW9T2k0m0gV9QXw3JDVBm11da-rX5S4jp7okL1fnkAH-kmPFCzQhvRwoXpi1yDoc2Mf7YblSETlx7ll6wZKnsQkOWbR2FovXbgU05Zn-jlt4kw3c4d7PV7JKP3VhHS00MEi51xvm_1bzGHhiWIXcGqL6Zpvqw1sADc1XQs4qKa-Cdcwpw\")
| Locations | Available in most U.S. metro areas |
| Services offered | 12+ |
| Customer reviews (average as of publish date) | 4.7 on Trustpilot |
| How it works | You get an instant quote, then a Lawn Love pro near you is assigned to handle your job |
| Ways to book service | Website or phone |
| Basic price | Depends on services requested and/or mowing frequency. By visiting the website, you may be offered your first mow for $24. |
| Year founded | 2014 |
| Based in | San Diego |
| Better Business Bureau accredited? | Yes |
![](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Haym_9TP6o11NlzbZrzz5Sy3B3mZHbG9bzLvFqZzX42B-tnp5sqvlLR2GDXswMKkRykSzk-4YyfbZtTTjL8jRqxmb8D0-wtb2LZsUcTcW-FedyE4Tpv1dPSKYa3z5SuR_AdqolxL7YqibfWoXxwT8WdbkhCFoKUimdtDKcmrsMMC_dHpaNaf2uDLh4ib0g\")
| Locations | Available in most U.S. metro areas |
| Services offered | 20+ |
| Customer reviews (average as of publish date) | 4.6 out of 5 |
| How it works | You get an instant quote, then a LawnStarter pro near you is assigned to handle your job |
| Ways to book service | Website, phone, or mobile app |
| Basic price | Depends on services requested and/or mowing frequency. By visiting the website, you may be offered your first mow for $19. |
| Year founded | 2013 |
| Based in | Austin, Texas |
| Better Business Bureau accredited? | No |
![](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/plyOf0FATj24UAdoRevSr-YCW_5GznpB5Mii5xCNGMe1Ax0iiHWnTn4m0hX39XTwWtFR6RyH9neMjLqbDk1YDFJfNs4jFeEgQGPk7lOnxQi3E_-7stKG4_To8TweTUiDL0eLU3HaQCIeW1XJJTtMJKyNSSpFWe3enGydZ1Cnu8HhVHu42a5bQiJ6DYvFMA\")
| Locations | Available in most metro areas across the U.S. |
| Services offered | Lawn care, lawn maintenance, yard cleanups, snow removal |
| Customer reviews (average as of publish date) | 4.25 |
| How it works | Your lawn mowing is put out for bid |
| Ways to book service | Website, app or phone |
| Basic price | You’ll get multiple lawn mowing quotes from $25 to $45 |
| Year founded | 2012 |
| Based in | Nashville |
| Better Business Bureau accredited? | No |
![\"Wikilawn](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/rsz_171e64b7d-5080-473b-9793-87d2629a1cca_4_5005_c.jpg\")
| Locations | Available in most U.S. metro areas |
| Services offered | Lawn mowing, landscaping, and gardening |
| Customer reviews (average as of publish date) | Unable to find customer review star ratings online |
| How it works | Your lawn mowing is put out for bid |
| Ways to book service | Website |
| Basic price | Depends on services requested and/or mowing frequency. |
| Year founded | 2013 |
| Based in | Dallas |
Sure, we’ve just given you the high points and the lowdown on Lawn Love, but you’re on the Wikilawn website. We’re the little lawn care site that could. We’re Avis. We try harder (and we succeed).
\n\n\n\n
Book your lawn care through Wikilawn and you’ll be connected to one of the best lawn care pros near you. Let me repeat that. You’ll get one of the best lawn care pros near you – not the best Lawn Love pro near you.
Here’s what you get with Wikilawn:
\n\n\n\nMore Pros: Wikilawn casts a bigger net to match you with the right lawn care pro for your job. LawnStarter, Lawn Love, and service providers like HomeAdvisor/Angi and Networx can bid on your job.
\n\n\n\nMaybe a Lower Price: Your lawn care may cost less too. More pros (more bidders) often leads to lower prices as they compete for your business. Of course, the price quotes you get back will depend upon the kind of work you want done, the size of your yard, and other factors.
\n\n\n\nEasy to Use: Lawn Love makes lawn care easy (just like Wikilawn).
\n\n\n\nSo with Lawn Love, will you love it or leave it? That’s up to you.
\n\n\n\nOf course, you could just use Wikilawn to find your next lawn care pro. You’re already here. Why go somewhere else?
\n\n\n\n\n","title":"Lawn Love Review: Services, Prices, Pros and Cons","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/1789c/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/107df/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/293e9/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/f2cbb/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/1789c/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/c26c2/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/1dd6e/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/67b76/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.webp 320w,\n/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/8df11/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.webp 500w,\n/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/98a65/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.webp 800w,\n/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/1dd6e/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.webp 960w,\n/static/f1f57e1d19141e865529d4d7edcb23d2/3cc96/Lawn-Love-Review-for-Wikilawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Love Review: Services, Prices, Pros and Cons | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Will you love Lawn Love? That depends. Our Lawn Love review looks at its services, prices, customer reviews, and more."}}},{"node":{"id":"dc9d69b9-4c83-5b51-a60d-e92c73f52fc7","slug":"when-to-overseed-a-lawn","path":"/blog/when-to-overseed-a-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Alison is a Midwesterner through and through, and loves to spend her time baking and reading. Always at home in the dirt, as a kid, Alison raised a vegetable garden with her dad, and flower gardens with her mom.","name":"Alison Hoover","id":"2d4efd75-80f4-58b0-b715-bcefffb32f2f","path":"/author/alison-hoover/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/54d52d00b8587655742aec8164f06427?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"July 29th, 2022","excerpt":"Overseeding is most effective when your lawn is growing most actively. Deciding when to overseed your lawn depends on whether your existing grass is a warm or cool-season type. Experts recommend overseeding most lawns in the late summer or early fall, at least six weeks before the first frost. The rules change for when to […]
\n","content":"\nOverseeding is most effective when your lawn is growing most actively. Deciding when to overseed your lawn depends on whether your existing grass is a warm or cool-season type.
\n\n\n\nExperts recommend overseeding most lawns in the late summer or early fall, at least six weeks before the first frost. The rules change for when to overseed a lawn in southern areas where grass grows more actively in the spring.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nPopular in the northern states, cool-season grasses grow most actively in spring and fall. These grasses should be overseeded in late summer or early fall. This way the seeds will have time to germinate before your lawn comes out of dormancy in the spring. Most weeds have stopped growing by fall, so your new grass seed will have less competition.
\n\n\n\nIdeal conditions for growing cool-season grasses are when the soil is between 50 and 65 degrees. You can use a soil thermometer to check this out.
\n\n\n\nThere are many varieties of cool-season grasses, but the most common ones include:
\n\n\n\nAnother thing to consider when overseeding is when you expect the first frost. It’s important to overseed at least 45 days before the ground freezes so the new seeds have time to take root. Any closer to the first frost than that, and the grass seeds may die.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are most active in late spring and early summer and best for lawns in the southern United States. It’s best to overseed with warm-season grass seeds in the late spring or early summer when soil temperatures are between 70 and 90 degrees. These types of grasses prefer prolonged temperatures around 75 degrees and lie dormant during winter.
\n\n\n\nThe most popular kinds of warm-season grasses are drought-tolerant. They include:
\n\n\n\nYou may want to overseed your warm-season grass with a cool-season variety such as ryegrass. This will help your lawn stay green longer into the winter season. If this is your goal, you need to overseed in the fall, ideally when the soil temperature is between 50 and 65 degrees.
\n\n\n\nAnnual ryegrass will provide winter color in the far South, while perennial ryegrass is better suited to lawns in the middle of the country. Perennial varieties will lie dormant through the summer and return next fall. The extreme temperatures in the South are not hospitable to perennial ryegrass, so you’ll want to overseed with annual ryegrass each autumn.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll want to consider blending grass types in states near the Mason-Dixon line. Summers tend to be too warm for cool-season grasses, but winters are too cold for warm ones.
\n\n\n\nHome supply stores typically sell grass seed mixes, especially for the transition zone. You’ll find overseeding with this mixture is a great way to keep your lawn green and healthy year-round.
\n\n\n\nTransition zone grasses should be overseeded in the first few weeks of spring when the existing lawn first turns green.You want to overseed when your lawn is at its most active, but you also want to be sure you have enough time to complete the process.
\n\n\n\nMost lawns will require overseeding every couple of years, but you may want to make it an annual chore if your lawn suffers from:
\n\n\n\nYou’ll find valuable information on the seed packaging specific to each type of grass. The labels will indicate how much seed to apply per square foot, as well as other tips for attaining a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\n1. How much grass seed should I use when overseeding?
\n\n\n\nApply 6 to 8 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet on bare soil. Using too little will leave bare spots and patches. Too much seed will force the grass to compete for water, light, and other nutrients. Read the directions on the seed package.
\n\n\n\n2. Should I mow the lawn before overseeding?
\n\n\n\nYes. Before overseeding, cut your grass shorter than usual and bag the clippings. It’s important to loosen the top layer of solid and remove any dead grass or thatch so the grass seed can easily take root and germinate.
\n\n\n\n3. Should I use a weed treatment while overseeding?
\n\n\n\nThis is a big no-no. Pre-emergents herbicides work by preventing germinating seeds from establishing roots. These products don’t know the difference between weed seeds and grass seeds. You also want to hold off on post-emergent weed treatments since they can kill young grass seed.
\n\n\n\n4. How long after overseeding will I see grass start to grow?
\n\n\n\nIt takes two to three weeks for germination to begin. With proper watering, you should see the grass sprout within four weeks. It will take about eight weeks to see a fully established lawn.
\n\n\n\n5. How soon and how often should I water the lawn after overseeding?
\n\n\n\nWater the overseeded area lightly right away, for about half an hour, to force the seed into the soil. A light spray is best so as not to wash away the grass seed. You’ll want to water two or three times a day for the first week, and then once a day for the next three weeks.
\n\n\n\nOverseeding is easy enough to do as a DIY project. But you might not want to spend your time checking soil temperatures, dethatching, and aerating. We can help you find a lawn care professional near you who will overseed your lawn and help it grow.
Main Photo Credit: Pxhere
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\n","content":"\nRather than replacing your entire lawn, overseed those brown patches and bald spots. It’s an easy DIY project, as long as you have the right tools and a little patience. Here you’ll find precise tips on just how to overseed your lawn, the benefits of overseeding, and the best time of year to get started.
\n\n\n\nTable of Contents
\n\n\n\nOverseeding is simply spreading fresh grass seed directly into the existing lawn without tearing up the turf or the soil. It’s an excellent way to make your lawn thicker and greener. By mixing types of grass seed, you can even prolong the life of your lawn and enjoy it year-round.
\n\n\n\nLet’s face it: We all end up making twice as many trips to the home store as anticipated, looking for that one last item we forgot. Start here, gather your materials, and finish your shopping in one day.
\n\n\n\nThe first step is deciding when to spread the seeds. This is typically done in late summer or early fall, depending on if you have cool-season or warm-season grass in your yard.
\n\n\n\nLike any plant, grass seeds need to find their way to the soil to germinate. But thatch can get in the way. Thatch is the organic matter like grass and leaves that accumulates atop the soil. If you can’t see soil between your existing grass, remove the thatch with a dethatcher.
\n\n\n\nAfter dethatching, you’ll need to aerate. Spike aeration pokes holes in the solid while core aeration pokes holes and removes plugs of soil, giving your grass seed the space it needs to germinate.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: It’s unlikely you have a dethatcher or aerator hanging out in your shed. The local home supply store should have a selection to choose from. Look for rental opportunities while you pick up the fertilizer and grass seed.
\n\n\n\nIn order to help the seeds reach the soil, cut the grass to about one inch. This is likely shorter than you normally mow, so you’ll need to drop the blade.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also important to bag the trimmings and remove them. Again, this is all about increasing the likelihood of the new seeds making soil contact and germinating successfully. If you don’t have a way to bag the clippings, the next step will help.
\n\n\n\nRake up all of the leaves, twigs, clippings, and other debris on your lawn. It’s best if you add a little muscle to the raking process, allowing the rake tines to loosen up the soil as well.
\n\n\n\nUse a fertilizer spreader to add a layer of enriched topsoil on top of your grass. This top layer of soil is filled with organic matter and microorganisms necessary for life to develop. Topsoil makes sure the seeds have access to water, nutrients, and space to germinate.
\n\n\n\nThis layer should be about ¼-inch thick. Some grass seed mixtures include topsoil, so you won’t need to add additional topsoil and can jump to the next step.
\n\n\n\nFinally, it’s time for seeding! Like most aspects of lawn care, it’s essential to know just what type of grass you’re working with. Either use the same seed as your existing lawn or a variety that compliments it. For example, overseed a Zoysiagrass lawn with Zoysia seed, or a cool-season ryegrass to add color in the winter.
\n\n\n\nRead the bag’s instructions for how much seed to apply per square foot, and fill your drop spreader or broadcast spreader accordingly. Walk the spreader across your lawn in the same direction you mow, depositing the seed in rows.
\n\n\n\nTo jumpstart growth and ensure the new seeds have what they need, use a fertilizer spreader to add a starter fertilizer appropriate for your lawn. Starter mixes are specially designed for new growth and should be applied wherever you spread the seeds.
\n\n\n\nIf your grass seed mixture already contains fertilizer, you can skip this step.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: Stay away from “weed and feed” mixtures as these herbicides can damage to new growth.
\n\n\n\nNew plants always require water, and your new grass seed is no different. As soon as you finish spreading seed and fertilizer, give your lawn a good, healthy drink.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll then water your lawn lightly two to three times each day, ensuring the soil stays moist. This should continue until the new grass is as tall to established grass. Always water in the morning or after sundown so as to prevent evaporation.
\n\n\n\nYou should also look for signs of overwatering, such as puddles or squishy soil. If you notice this, stop watering right away and wait until conditions return to normal.
\n\n\n\nAlong with consistent watering, you should also stay off your grass until it has had a chance to develop. Limit foot and paw traffic until the grass has at least 1- to 2-inches of growth, and don’t pull out the mower until the new grass is similar in height to the established grass. Giving your new lawn a chance to take hold is the final step in overseeding.
\n\n\n\nWhen you overseed your lawn, you give it the ability to resist disease, drought conditions, and heavy foot traffic. A thicker lawn is also more resistant to lawn damaging insects. It also requires less fertilizer and maintenance.
\n\n\n\n1. Why mow the lawn before overseeding?
\n\n\n\nA shorter lawn gives the seeds a better chance of reaching the soil. It’s also important to loosen the top layer of soil and remove any dead grass or thatch, so the grass seed can easily take root and germinate.
\n\n\n\n2. How do I prevent the birds from eating the grass seed?
\n\n\n\nAdd a layer of topsoil over the seeded areas. This prevents the birds and other wildlife from getting to the seed. If you notice birds or rabbits near the area, get a roll of burlap and place strips of it over the seeded area. Anchor the strips with tent stakes.
\n\n\n\n3. How long after overseeding will I see grass start to grow?
\n\n\n\nIt takes two to three weeks for germination to begin. With proper watering, you should start to see the grass spout within four weeks. It will take about eight weeks to see a fully established lawn.
\n\n\n\n4. How often should I overseed my lawn?
\n\n\n\nAnnually. Most lawn care professionals recommend overseeding each year to keep your lawn coming back thicker and greener every spring. If you only see bald spots and thinning every once in a while, you can probably overseed once every two or three years.
\n\n\n\n5. Do I need to apply fertilizer when overseeding my lawn?
\n\n\n\nOnly if you didn’t fertilize in spring. Adding more fertilizer isn’t necessary, and may actually hinder your new grass seed from growing. Fertilizing just before or after reseeding will force the germinating seeds to compete with the existing grass and weeds. It’s best to wait until the following spring to fertilize.
\n\n\n\nOverseeding is easy enough to do as a DIY project, but if you’d rather not spend your time checking soil temperatures, dethatching, and aerating, we can help you find a lawn care professional near you.
Main Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan | LawnStarter
\n","title":"How to Overseed a Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/1789c/rsz_2img_3650.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/107df/rsz_2img_3650.jpg 320w,\n/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/293e9/rsz_2img_3650.jpg 500w,\n/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/f2cbb/rsz_2img_3650.jpg 800w,\n/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/1789c/rsz_2img_3650.jpg 960w,\n/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/c26c2/rsz_2img_3650.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/1dd6e/rsz_2img_3650.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/67b76/rsz_2img_3650.webp 320w,\n/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/8df11/rsz_2img_3650.webp 500w,\n/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/98a65/rsz_2img_3650.webp 800w,\n/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/1dd6e/rsz_2img_3650.webp 960w,\n/static/fd24f7bcd056d51043c31e0a0be34322/3cc96/rsz_2img_3650.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Overseed a Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want a thick, lush lawn every spring? We’ll tell you how to overseed a lawn in the fall to keep your lawn coming back greener and thicker every year."}}},{"node":{"id":"9c0691da-f56c-546a-94e5-cef58facaeaf","slug":"how-to-choose-pet-safe-weed-killers","path":"/blog/how-to-choose-pet-safe-weed-killers/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an autism family. Self-described as \"half-feral but mostly harmless\", Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends.","name":"Raven Wisdom","id":"4fb83156-96f1-58f1-8074-4a6c5c50eaaa","path":"/author/raven-wisdom/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a2813f63a6af9d07a7a5bb212b5645db?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"August 4th, 2022","excerpt":"Cats and dogs are curious by nature and will sniff or lick the chemicals you spray on your lawn. That’s why you need to know how to choose pet-safe weed killers. Rather than worry about an emergency trip to the vet, we’ll tell you how to select the safest weed killers for your lawn. Contents: […]
\n","content":"\nCats and dogs are curious by nature and will sniff or lick the chemicals you spray on your lawn. That’s why you need to know how to choose pet-safe weed killers.
\n\n\n\nRather than worry about an emergency trip to the vet, we’ll tell you how to select the safest weed killers for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nContents:
\n\n\n\nMany weed and grass killers contain toxic chemicals, which can cause serious harm to your pet. Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine found that using lawn chemicals, like glyphosate, increases a dog’s chance of developing cancer by up to 70%.
\n\n\n\nWhen looking for a pet-safe weed killer, pay close attention to the labels and check the active ingredients, certifications, types of weeds the product treats, and whether it’s a weed killer or weed preventer. Even if a product is labeled as “organic” or “pet-safe,” you still need to check what’s in it.
\n\n\n\nSome ingredients commonly found in animal-friendly herbicides include:
\n\n\n\nIf a product says it’s certified, do a little research and verify the organization or governing body that issued the certification. Some reputable organizations include Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), which are private, non-profit groups.
\n\n\n\nYou should avoid using any chemical weed killers containing:
\n\n\n\nSeveral companies like Get Sunday, Preen, Green Gobbler, and Dr. Kirchner specialize in effective pet-safe weed killers that won’t harm your grass or flowers.
\n\n\n\nYou can make several homemade weed killers and avoid exposing your dog or cat to harsh chemicals. Make sure your homemade weed killer doesn’t contain anything that could harm your pet. Safe options include:
\n\n\n\n1. What are the symptoms of weed killer poisoning in pets?
\n\n\n\nThe signs to watch for include:
\n\n\n\nIf your pet displays these symptoms and you suspect they were exposed to toxic chemicals, contact your vet immediately.
\n\n\n\n2. How long should I wait to let my dogs on the lawn after applying a weed killer?
\n\n\n\nWait at least 24 hours to make sure the product has completely dried before letting your kids, cats, and dogs play on it. Watering your lawn the next day will help the products dissipate.
\n\n\n\n3. What do I do after spraying weed killer to keep my pet safe?
\n\n\n\nWait a couple of days and pull up the pesky weeds. Make sure you get the root. If the roots are intact, the weeds can grow back. Wait at least two days after applying weed killer to mow.
\n\n\n\n4. Are there any downsides to pet-friendly weed killers?
\n\n\n\nYes. They don’t work as quickly, can be less effective on certain weeds, and vinegar-based solutions can increase the salt levels in your soil.
\n\n\n\n5. How do pet-safe weed killers work?
\n\n\n\nMost ingredients like vinegar, salt, and soap, dry out the plant, and corn gluten meal prevents seeds from sprouting.
Got a yard full of weeds but little time to get rid of them? We can help you find an eco-garden pro or lawn care professional who can handle the problem while you and your furry friend relax.
Main photo credit: Pxhere
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\n","content":"\nBy John Egan
They’re truly raising the roofs in the Austin, TX, metro area.
A WikiLawn analysis of new data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that among the country’s 50 biggest metros, the Austin area boasts the largest share of homes (nearly 3.3 percent) built in 2014 or later.
No other major metro surpassed the 3 percent mark for new housing units, such as houses, apartments and condos. Nationwide, 0.9 percent of all housing units were considered new as of 2017, the Census Bureau data indicates.
Rounding out the top five were:
2. Raleigh, NC (a little over 2.4 percent).
\n\n\n\n3. Houston, TX (a little over 2.2 percent).
\n\n\n\n4. San Antonio, TX (nearly 2.2 percent).
\n\n\n\n5. Nashville, TN, (nearly 2.1 percent).
The full list appears below.
The newly released Census Bureau data, gathered through the American Community Survey, gives estimates of a host of housing, economic and demographic milestones in the U.S. through 2017. Among them is the number of housing units constructed from 2014 to 2017 in every U.S. metro.
Of the 14 major metro areas with the most new homes, our analysis finds that four of them are in Texas — Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. Two metros in Florida appear in our tally (Jacksonville and Orlando), as do two in North Carolina (Charlotte and Raleigh).
Not surprisingly, all of the metros on our new-housing list have experienced significant surges in population in recent years. After all, a bump in population ordinarily prompts a need for more places to live.
Among the 10 U.S. metros with the fastest-growing population (on a percentage basis) from 2016 to 2017, only Austin also shows up in our new-home ranking. In just one year, the Austin area’s population climbed 2.7 percent, Census Bureau data shows.
Examined another way, though, five of the 14 metros on our list also are among the country’s fastest-growing.
From 2016 to 2017 alone, Dallas-Fort Worth led all U.S. metro areas for the raw number of residents added (146,238), according to the Census Bureau. Houston was No. 2, adding 94,417 residents; Seattle, WA, was No. 6, with 64,386 new residents; Orlando was No. 8, with 56,498; and Austin was No. 9, with 55,269.
While areas like the ones in our ranking are putting up new housing units at a fairly speedy clip, that’s not enough to meet overall demand. According to new research from mortgage lender Freddie Mac, the annual rate of housing construction across the U.S. currently is about 370,000 units shy of the level required to satisfy housing needs — especially the rising demand for affordable homes and apartments — over the long term.
Aggravating the housing supply-and-demand imbalance is an escalating shortage of laborers and subcontractors for construction of single-family homes.
While Austin sits at No. 1 in our ranking for the heftiest share of new homes, the Austin Strategic Housing Blueprint estimated that at least 135,000 more housing units would need to be built just in the city — not the entire metro area — from 2015 through 2025 to accommodate even more residents. The Austin City Council adopted the blueprint in 2017.
“The biggest problem with housing is that there’s just not enough of it to go around,” Austin Mayor Steve Adler said in 2017. “I’m here to tell you that the law of supply and demand, and its relationship to prices, applies even in Austin. We simply don’t have enough housing supply now to keep up with demand. And by not creating enough housing in Austin, we’re pushing people out of town to cheaper housing in surrounding communities, adding to their commute, our congestion and everyone’s expenses.”
Making matters worse: The population boom in Austin and the surrounding suburbs isn’t cooling off anytime soon. If current projections are accurate, the Austin metro area will have welcomed more than 190,000 residents from 2017 to 2020.
“Due to rapid population growth throughout Central Texas, Austin continues to have one of the highest demands for housing in the nation,” Brandy Guthrie, 2017 president of the Austin Board of Realtors, said in December 2017.
Led by Austin, here’s our list of the 14 Metro Areas With the Most New Homes (as a percentage of all housing units).
![\"\"](\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Austin-TX.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Total housing units: 786,584
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 25,850
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 3.29%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Raleigh-NC.jpg\")
Total housing units: 511,414
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 12,435
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 2.43%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Houston-TX.jpg\")
Total housing units: 2,499,292
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 55,934
\n\n\n\n% of housing built in 2014 or later: 2.24%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/San-Antonio-TX.jpg\")
Total housing units: 874,247
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 19,141
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 2.19%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Nashville-TN-1.jpg\")
Total housing units: 747,845
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 15,515
\n\n\n\n% of housing built in 2014 or later: 2.07%
![\"\"](\"https://i2.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Dallas-TX.jpg?fit=1024%2C563&ssl=1\")
Total housing units: 2,696,167
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 51,922
\n\n\n\n% of housing built in 2014 or later: 1.93%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Orlando-FL.jpg\")
Total housing units: 995,591
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 17,989
\n\n\n\n% of housing built in 2014 or later: 1.81%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Oklahoma-City-OK.jpg\")
Total housing units: 563,445
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 9,878
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 1.75%
![\"\"](\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Jacksonville-FL.jpg?fit=1024%2C681&ssl=1\")
Total housing units: 625,888
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 10,709
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 1.71%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Denver-CO.jpg\")
Total housing units: 1,136,616
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 18,588
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 1.64%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Charlotte-North-Carolina.jpg\")
Total housing units: 993,111
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 16,061
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 1.62%
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Salt-Lake-City-UT.jpg\")
Total housing units: 405,112
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 6,057
\n\n\n\n% of housing built in 2014 or later: 1.50%
![\"\"](\"https://i1.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Seattle-WA.jpg?fit=1024%2C498&ssl=1\")
Total housing units: 1,544,134
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 22,148
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 1.43%
![\"\"](\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Portland-OR.jpg?fit=1024%2C576&ssl=1\")
Total housing units: 966,346
\n\n\n\nHousing units built in 2014 or later: 12,245
\n\n\n\n% of housing units built in 2014 or later: 1.27%
\n\n\n\nAuthor Bio: John Egan is a freelance writer who covers everything from personal finance to lawn care. His masterful work has been featured in The Huffington Post, Forbes, and The Guardian.
Looking for a low-maintenance turf option for your Southern lawn? Do you have predominantly sandy or low-fertility soil that doesn’t support Zoysiagrass or buffalograss? If either of these questions hit home with you, it may be worth a shot to try growing a Bahiagrass lawn instead, and we’ve got all the information you need! Bahiagrass […]
\n","content":"\nLooking for a low-maintenance turf option for your Southern lawn? Do you have predominantly sandy or low-fertility soil that doesn’t support Zoysiagrass or buffalograss? If either of these questions hit home with you, it may be worth a shot to try growing a Bahiagrass lawn instead, and we’ve got all the information you need!
\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soils, does well in sandy loam
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: With a moderate to high growth rate, it needs frequent mowing
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nInsect pest tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bahiagrass is grown along the Gulf Coast and in the Southeastern U.S. It does best in acidic soils and is not the best grass if your soil is naturally alkaline. It doesn’t tolerate salt water well.
\n\n\n\nWhile this may come as a surprise to many, Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum) is used mainly as a pasture grass and for hay production across the southeastern United States. However, selected varieties—Argentine and Pensacola, especially—work well as turfgrass species for lawns. Behind St. Augustinegrass, Bahia is the second most common turfgrass across much of the southeastern United States, and for a good reason.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass is well-adapted to low-fertility soils and is excellent for homeowners wanting a low-maintenance, low-input lawn. It puts down a deep root system that spreads via underground rhizomes. This root system makes it great for areas prone to drought or lawns without an irrigation system. However, Bahia doesn’t form the same dense carpet as other warm-season grasses that spread using above-ground stolons.
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Bahiagrass-lawn.jpg\")
Bahiagrass is not the best choice for every Southern lawn, but it is ideal in many situations, especially if you have many acres of property to cover.
\n\n\n\n✓ Low water needs
\n\n\n\n✓ Low fertilizer requirements
\n\n\n\n✓ Lower maintenance than many other grass types
\n\n\n\n✓ Deep root system
\n\n\n\n✓ Does well in sandy and other low-fertility soils
\n\n\n\n✓ Minimal insect and disease problems
\n\n\n\n✓ Thatch is generally not a concern
\n\n\n\n✓ Establishes from seed or sod
\n\n\n\n✗ Does not form a dense carpet
\n\n\n\n✗ Seed head stems dull mower blades quickly
\n\n\n\n✗ Seed heads need regular mowing, or they become an eyesore
\n\n\n\n✗ Only a few varieties are available for home lawns
\n\n\n\n✗ Open growth habit leaves space for weeds to grow
\n\n\n\nIf you’re considering switching your lawn to Bahiagrass or using it to start grass at a fresh build, you have the option of seeding or laying sod.
\n\n\n\nHowever, some crucial differences between the two methods must be considered when choosing.
\n\n\n\nThere’s no denying that planting grass from seed is by far the cheaper of the two options and is much easier labor-wise to “install.” For homeowners with economic constraints, this makes seeding attractive. On the flip side, if you opt for seeding, the grass needs considerably more babysitting during the establishment process and takes quite a bit of time to grow into a beautiful lawn.
\n\n\n\nLaying sod comes with a pretty hefty price tag, and the process is back-breaking – even more so for Bahiagrass sod, as it tends to fall apart unless you spend extra money for sod with a netting material to hold it together. That being said, once you get it down, you automatically have a nice green lawn, and it doesn’t take micromanaging to get it established like seeding does.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass Seed: Depending on where you purchase seed from, expect to pay $100-$110 for a 25 lb bag of Pensacola Bahiagrass seed.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass Sod: A 400-square-foot pallet of Bahiagrass sod costs approximately $113 to $134.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass Seed: Getting grass seed down in late spring or early summer is best. Warm-season grasses like Bahia grow the most when the air temperatures hit a whopping 85 to 95°F, so you want to plant just before temps climb this high. This helps your grass establish as quickly as possible, putting down a sound root system so it is well-prepared to go dormant and survive the winter.
\n\n\n\nNote: Not all grass seeds you scatter will germinate; some Bahiagrass seeds lay dormant and may sprout later in the season.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass Sod: Sod is a little more forgiving timing-wise and can be put down whenever you have time to tackle the project. However! You’ll have a much easier time getting it established if you do it in the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate.
\n\n\n\nSince Bahia grows a little more sparsely than other turfgrasses, you can overseed your lawn annually with more Bahiagrass seed to keep it as thick as possible. Remember that no matter what you do, it will never grow as thick as Zoysia or other turfs with dense growth habits.
\n\n\n\n![\"sparse](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Sparse-Bahiagrass.jpg\")
Yes, I’ve said that Bahiagrass is low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need your attention at all. Here are the basic rules of Bahiagrass lawn maintenance to follow.
\n\n\n\nIt was mentioned that Bahiagrass is fantastic for large acres and properties without irrigation. This doesn’t mean it will stay green regardless of how little or how much water it gets.
\n\n\n\nWhen you’re growing Bahiagrass without irrigation, it will go into a state of dormancy and turn brown during long periods of drought. Once the rain returns, the grass greens back up and resumes growing. In climates such as Florida, where it rains most days, you may not ever need to give a Bahia lawn supplemental water.
\n\n\n\nIf you can water your lawn, it’s best to keep an eye on it and watch for signs it needs water. You’ll see folded grass blades, a color change, and footprints will remain on the grass after you walk across it. So, if you see these things, turn on the sprinklers and give your grass one-half to three-quarters of an inch of water to get it green and perky.
\n\n\n\nFertilizer specifics will depend on the soil in your yard and how you’ve managed it before. You need to account for soil type, organic matter content, if you’ve mulched clippings back into the lawn, etc. To get an exact recommendation, perform a soil test before seeding or laying sod.
\n\n\n\nAs a general rule of thumb, apply 1 to 4 pounds of nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet of yard annually.
\n\n\n\nAlways check local guidelines for lawn fertilizer blackout dates or ordinances regarding its application.
\n\n\n\nDuring the summer, Bahia is known for its characteristic Y-shaped, two- or three-branched seed heads. To keep them in check and your grass looking nice, expect to mow your lawn every one to two weeks. During the hottest parts of summer, you may need to cut it a little more frequently unless you don’t mind the seed heads, but you’ll want to keep your grass 3 to 4 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nThe seed head stems are tough on mower blades, so you may need to sharpen them more frequently than with other grasses. Keeping mower blades sharp will help give you an excellent crisp cut when you mow instead of tearing the tops of the grass off with dull mower blades.
\n\n\n\nKeeping a Bahiagrass lawn weed-free is a challenge since Bahia doesn’t grow as thick or dense as some grass types. Weeds love to come in and reside in those bare spots and compete with your grass for essential nutrients, water, and sunlight. The best defense against weeds is to maintain a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nTo do this, keep your grass mowed to the proper height, irrigate when you see signs of drought stress, and fertilize throughout the growing season. You can also consider periodically overseeding to help fill in some bare spots where the weeds like to hang out.
\n\n\n\nWhen proper lawn management doesn’t succeed in weed control, pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides are available in both chemical and organic formulations. Just stay away from products containing atrazine and metsulfuron because they damage Bahiagrass.
\n\n\n\nFortunately, Bahia lawns experience very few insect and disease problems. Watch for mole crickets, Bahiagrass billbugs, and fall armyworms, as they may cause issues in Bahiagrass lawns.
\n\n\n\nThe two classifications of turfgrass are distinguished by where they have adapted to grow the best. Warm-season grasses prefer hot summers and mild winters and grow in the South. Cool-season grasses like temperate summers and can tolerate brutal winters; they grow mainly in the northern United States.
Bahiagrass is a warm-season grass.
Bahiagrass is typically grown on sandy soils in coastal areas, so there isn’t a need to aerate, as these soils don’t compact. Also, it isn’t a grass type that develops a lot of thatch, so dethatching isn’t usually necessary.
Sometimes, when it’s growing where it isn’t wanted, Bahiagrass is considered a weed rather than a turfgrass. If Bahiagrass is a weed in your book, and it’s overrunning your lawn, see our guide on how to get rid of Bahiagrass.
\n\n\n\nIf you think a Bahiagrass lawn is a good fit for your landscape, contact one of our highly-qualified local lawn professionals. They can help get your lawn started or care for your established turf, giving you more time to spend doing what matters most to you – without sacrificing the quality of your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"Everything You Need to Know About Growing Bahiagrass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/1789c/Bahiagrass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/107df/Bahiagrass.jpg 320w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/293e9/Bahiagrass.jpg 500w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/f2cbb/Bahiagrass.jpg 800w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/1789c/Bahiagrass.jpg 960w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/c26c2/Bahiagrass.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/1dd6e/Bahiagrass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/67b76/Bahiagrass.webp 320w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/8df11/Bahiagrass.webp 500w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/98a65/Bahiagrass.webp 800w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/1dd6e/Bahiagrass.webp 960w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/3cc96/Bahiagrass.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Everything You Need to Know About Growing Bahiagrass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Bahiagrass is a great, low-maintenance grass for Southern lawns with sandy soils. We have all the information you need if you’re looking to grow it!"}}},{"node":{"id":"0d2ce4cb-3aad-5854-8f30-588b330c2cf7","slug":"how-to-level-a-lawn","path":"/blog/how-to-level-a-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an autism family. Self-described as \"half-feral but mostly harmless\", Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends.","name":"Raven Wisdom","id":"4fb83156-96f1-58f1-8074-4a6c5c50eaaa","path":"/author/raven-wisdom/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a2813f63a6af9d07a7a5bb212b5645db?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"July 29th, 2022","excerpt":"An uneven lawn causes drainage problems along with tripping hazards. We’ll show you how to level your lawn and keep it level. In this article, we’ll cover: Prepare Your Lawn for Leveling Leveling the Lawn What Causes A Lawn To Become Uneven? How To Keep A Level Lawn FAQs About Leveling Your Lawn Prepare Your […]
\n","content":"\nAn uneven lawn causes drainage problems along with tripping hazards. We’ll show you how to level your lawn and keep it level.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nYou can prepare your uneven lawn for leveling with just three easy steps. It’s crucial to level your lawn on a dry day to avoid a big muddy mess.
\n\n\n\nAssess the severity of the problem before you dig in. A few low spots are an easy fix, but if your lawn has significant damage, it will take a few extra steps to smooth it out.
\n\n\n\nFor the smaller bumps and ruts in your lawn, you can level it out with topdressing, a garden rake, a shovel, and a few DIY steps.
\n\n\n\nIf you have to cover up existing grass with the soil mixture, don’t worry. New grass growth will pop up through the soil soon, as long as you stick to the one-half-inch rule.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: If you’ve applied the top dressing to uneven areas that didn’t have much grass growing before you started, you’ll need to overseed those spots to help them recover.
\n\n\n\nIf you have numerous low and high areas or more of the lawn needs work, you can save it with a little more effort.
\n\n\n\nIf your lawn has more craters than the moon, you’ll need to:
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: Do not use a heavy roller to lay down fresh sod or correct a bumpy lawn. A lawn roller can lead to further compaction and damage your healthy grass.
\n\n\n\nKnowing what causes your lawn to become uneven can help you fix it. Check your property for these possible issues:
\n\n\n\nAfter you’ve done all the hard work to level your lawn, you’ll want it to stay level. Proper lawn care and maintenance can prevent unnecessary damage and prevent new dips and bumps from emerging.
\n\n\n\n1. Why should I level my lawn?
\n\n\n\nAn uneven lawn will not only lower your home’s curb appeal, it can also be dangerous. Dips and bumps could cause you to trip, resulting in injuries, and poor drainage leads to water damaging your home’s foundation.
\n\n\n\n2. When is the best time to level my lawn?
\n\n\n\nMarch through September is the best time to level your lawn, when the grass is actively growing.
\n\n\n\n3. Does the topdressing help my lawn?
\n\n\n\nTopdressing mixed with compost rejuvenates and strengthens existing grass, improves the soil, and combats other problems like disease and weeds.
\n\n\n\n4. When should I avoid leveling my lawn?
\n\n\n\nAvoid leveling if your lawn is suffering from drought, pests, disease, or when the ground is frozen or waterlogged. Address these issues before you begin.
\n\n\n\nDon’t let an uneven lawn get you down. If you don’t have the time or energy to level it yourself, rely on a local lawn care pro to get the job done for you.
\n\n\n\nMain photo credit: pxHere / CC0 1.1
\n","title":"How to Level a Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/1789c/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg","srcSet":"/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/107df/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 320w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/293e9/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 500w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/f2cbb/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 800w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/1789c/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 960w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/c26c2/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/1dd6e/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/67b76/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 320w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/8df11/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 500w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/98a65/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 800w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/1dd6e/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 960w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/3cc96/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Level a Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Is your riding lawn mower taking you for a rollercoaster ride? We’ll tell you how to level your lawn and keep it level."}}},{"node":{"id":"62d1ed51-8221-5d10-b1f5-905c05c38f40","slug":"6-ornamental-grasses-that-add-depth-to-your-landscaping","path":"/blog/6-ornamental-grasses-that-add-depth-to-your-landscaping/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jackie Greene is a blogger, gardener, and nutrition enthusiast. She enjoys creating organic meals for family and friends using the fresh ingredients she produces from her backyard homestead.","name":"Jackie Greene","id":"fb5923e1-833b-5d9b-808e-ded0e62c0bc4","path":"/author/jackiegreene/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c1121209a3ebfbe0a7e941d102b2971?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"August 8th, 2022","excerpt":"The popularity of ornamental grasses is on the rise as homeowners are choosing them in droves for their The popularity of ornamental grasses is rising as more homeowners choose them for their gardens. They can be used in a garden-scape but also do well when standing alone in a yard or potted. Consider these six […]
\n","content":"\nThe popularity of ornamental grasses is on the rise as homeowners are choosing them in droves for their The popularity of ornamental grasses is rising as more homeowners choose them for their gardens. They can be used in a garden-scape but also do well when standing alone in a yard or potted. Consider these six low-maintenance ornamental grasses that can add texture, depth, and interest to your landscaping:
\n\n\n\nBurgundy Bunny, sometimes called fountain grass, shoots up tall blades with tops that look like golden wheat. This ornamental grass features cream-colored blooms on top of variegated foliage that are a mixture of red and green. The blooms of this miniature perennial grass form a thick clump of arching leaves that appear in early summer and last through the middle of fall, making this a show stopper in the garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant this variety in full sun, either in a pot near a walkway or along a border. Burgundy Bunny can reach up to 16 inches tall and wide at maturity and will attract area birds.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_screen_shot_2022-08-07_at_64402_pm.jpg\")
This easy-to-care-for ornamental grass has an upright growth habit that features blades of green dotted with yellow areas of color. There is a whimsical look about this plant as the blades can either have a lot of yellow coloring or just a few areas here and there throughout the length of the blade. Chinese silvergrass will reach about 3 feet tall and wide at maturity, making this a great plant to add interest and depth to the back part of your garden. Choose a sunny spot in the garden where this plant can grow behind shorter ones offering a beautiful background and texture to the overall look of your yard.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_pink-huhly-grass.jpg\")
If you are looking for an ornamental grass that’s a great alternative to traditional grass, look no further than pink muhly grass. This beautiful variety provides a lot of depth and texture with wispy pink to light purple blooms that create a soft overall look to the plant. Pink muhly grass can grow up to 4 feet high and 3 feet wide in a mounded shape. This plant will do best in zones 6-10 and should be placed in a part of the garden where there is a lot of room to spread. Consider placing this show stopper of a plant in a corner or area of the garden that could use some color and sprucing up.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_hakonechloa_macra_aureola_7279479922.jpg\")
With an unusual weeping characteristic, the Japanese forest grass is a gorgeous grass that would look great in a variety of uses. It does well in zones 5-9 and grows up and downward in a weeping style. The grass blades are a variegated yellow and green, and the plant will produce red blooms in the fall. Japanese forest grass is great for adding fall interest to your garden and providing different focal points.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_1screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_113749_am.jpg\")
This very popular ornamental grass features a different color of light yellow blades with green edging. It is a mound-shaped grass that will grow to about 1 foot wide and tall at maturity. Banana boat grass is easy to care for and prefers to be planted in areas of shade. Banana Boat offers a variegated color scheme that add instant interest and depth to any garden. Use this variety along borders or as ground cover along with a mix of other ornamental grasses.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_112654_am.jpg\")
If you’re looking for both an ornamental grass and an annual blooming plant, look no further than the Lucerne blue-eyed grass. This beautiful plant offers dark green base leaves with gorgeous light blue blooms with yellow centers. The flowers have six petals and sit atop the stiff grass blades. The blooms appear in early to late spring ,and the plant doesn’t grow a foot tall and wide.
\n\n\n\nPlant this beauty in either full sun or part shade to add interest and color to your garden. Lucerne blue-eyed grass does well in zones 3-8, making it an easy choice for most homeowners.
\n\n\n\nThere are plenty of choices when planting ornamental grasses in a garden. Whether you use them to add height, color, texture, or ground cover, or just want a no-mow grass, there are many options to choose from. Consider picking one of these ornamental grasses to add depth to your landscaping this year.
\n\n\n\n1. Do ornamental grasses need much pruning?
\n\n\n\nYes. You will have to cut back the leaves every fall to encourage new growth in the spring. Once the new leaves start sprouting, it’s best to remove any dead leaves to help the plant thrive.
\n\n\n\n2. Are ornamental grasses susceptible to disease like regular grass?
\n\n\n\nYes. Fungal leaf spots are a common problem with some ornamental grasses. You can prevent these by keeping the different types of plants separated and using a good potting soil mixture when planting. You can treat a diseased plant with a fungicide and quickly removing all damaged leaves.
\n\n\n\n3. Do ornamental grasses spread quickly?
\n\n\n\nYes. Most ornamental grasses will spread their seeds as soon as the plume starts to brown and dry out, You can prevent the seeds from spreading by pruning the leaves before they turn brown. The exception is bamboo, an invasive grass that spreads incredibly quickly and can often make its way to neighboring yards. We don’t recommend planting bamboo, unless you plant it in a pot.
\n\n\n\nNeed help choose the right ornamental grasses for your landscape? We’ll help you find a lawn care and landscaping professional near you to plant and care for all your grasses.
\n\n\n\nMain Image photo credit: Pxhere
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