![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Houston is hot, dry, and sunny, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful yard. Texas native plants can adapt to Houston’s climate and soil conditions as they have been growing here for years. Let’s take a look at the best native plants for Houston that can add charm to your yard. In this […]
\n","content":"\nHouston is hot, dry, and sunny, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful yard. Texas native plants can adapt to Houston’s climate and soil conditions as they have been growing here for years.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a look at the best native plants for Houston that can add charm to your yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nNative plants are well-adapted to a region’s soil conditions and climate, giving them a distinct advantage over non-native plants.
\n\n\n\nHere are the advantages of native plants over non-natives.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan looks distinctive, with bright yellow petals and a brownish-black head in the center. It grows best in full sun and prefers moist soil with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is a low-maintenance plant that blooms from summer to fall, attracting butterflies, birds, and bees. You can remove the faded and dried flowers to keep black-eyed Susan in bloom longer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PumpkinSky / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEastern purple coneflower is popular in Texas for its appealing pinkish-purple flowers and a dome-shaped brownish-orange head. Eastern purple coneflower blooms from spring to summer. Butterflies and bees love them.
\n\n\n\nEastern purple coneflower grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It prefers moist loam soil with good drainage. However, it can quickly adapt to various soil types.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Giant](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Giant-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGiant coneflower is an attractive tall herbaceous perennial with bright yellow flowers and a large, dark brown center. It’s a super-sized black-eyed Susan. Giant coneflower grows best in full sun and prefers moist soil with good drainage. It tolerates partial shade and drought.
\n\n\n\nGiant coneflower blooms from mid-summer to early fall. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 7 feet tall and 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTexas lantana blooms throughout the summer, producing tiny bright flowers arranged in thick clusters. The flowers may appear orange, red, white, purple, or pink. These flowers create a bicolored effect as they are mixed within the same cluster.
\n\n\n\nTexas lantana grows best in full sun and prefers soil with good drainage. If you have children and pets playing on your lawn, we recommend avoiding this shrub as it’s toxic. Texas lantana leaves have a wrinkled appearance with a pungent citrusy smell. The strong aroma prevents deer from entering your yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and 6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, well-drained soil. Grows in almost all soil types.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to children and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American_Beautyberry_6172956232.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Virginia State Parks staff / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry blooms from late spring to early summer, producing clusters of tiny pink flowers. These flowers mature into berries during fall. Birds love them. We can eat them, too, but they don’t taste good.
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry grows best in full sun and can tolerate shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil. It can grow up to 6 feet, but keep it trimmed for a better appearance.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 6 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Light green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Autumn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Autumn-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Consultaplantas / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAutumn sage is a fast-growing shrub that blooms for a lengthy period, from late spring to mid-fall. The beautiful red flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Autumn sage grows best in full sun and prefers dry, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nAutumn sage requires regular watering after planting. Once grown, it can survive with an inch of watering each week. Avoid overwatering as it can damage the shrub. Autumn sage leaves are small and have a minty aroma.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Passionflower\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Passionflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: H. Zell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPassionflower looks beautiful with purple or white flowers. It features complex purple threadlike coronal filaments that stand out. Passionflower grows tall, reaching up to 30 feet. It grows best in full sun and prefers rich, moist soil with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nPassionflower blooms in summer and attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. It’s toxic to pets but doesn’t affect humans much.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 30 feet tall and 6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lonicera_sempervirens_-_Coral_honeysuckle_02.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle is a showy vine that can add charm to your lawn. It features clusters of pinkish-red tubular flowers. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds love these flowers. Coral honeysuckle usually blooms throughout the summer. During fall, these flowers mature into berries that songbirds love.
\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle grows best in full sun. It can tolerate partial shade but will flower slowly. It grows in any soil type with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 25 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Carolina](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carolina-Jessamine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Evans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCarolina jessamine looks beautiful with its trumpet-shaped bright yellow flowers. It blooms from late winter to early spring, making it one of the earliest bloomers. Carolina jessamine prefers moist, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant Carolina jessamine near your fence or arbor as it acts like a privacy screen. It also does well as a ground cover. Carolina jessamine grows best in full sun and can tolerate partial shade.
\n\n\n\nCarolina jessamine is extremely toxic and can even cause death to humans and pets when consumed. So, if you have kids and pets, we strongly recommend you avoid this vine.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 10 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Eastern-White-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhite oak has many benefits. Its bark is used to make medicines, furniture, and even boats. It grows extremely slowly at a rate of 2 feet per year but can comfortably last 500 to 600 years. White oak grows best in full sun and prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nWhite oak can grow up to 100 feet in height, and the canopy can spread to 80 feet. So, if you want to plant this tree, ensure there’s sufficient space in your lawn. White oak is susceptible to many diseases and pests.
\n\n\n\nDeers love the acorns that white oak produces. But don’t worry yet. Most white oak trees don’t produce acorns until they reach 20 years of age.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 100 feet tall and 80 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green in summer and brown to orange-red in fall
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Shumard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shumard-Red-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: F. D. Richards / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want a fast-growing oak tree, go for Shumard red oak. It grows about 3 feet per year. The growth rate isn’t too fast, but definitely better than white oak. On the downside, Shumard red oak lasts up to 480 years, significantly lesser than white oak.
\n\n\n\nShumard red oak grows best in full sun and prefers moist loam soil with good drainage. It can grow up to 120 feet. Shumard red oak turns reddish-orange during fall. Similar to white oak, this tree’s bark also has many benefits.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 120 feet tall and 90 wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loamy, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\nHouston’s hardiness zone is 9a, meaning the weather is hot, dry, and sunny for most of the year. All these plants are native to Texas and can survive Houston’s climate. We recommend you analyze your lawn’s condition and choose a plant that best suits your lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nAlso, don’t forget to consider a plant’s size when purchasing it. If there isn’t much space in your lawn, it’s best to avoid planting large trees.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to know more about these plants and want to make your lawn the envy of your neighbors, get in touch with Wikilawn’s Houston lawn care experts.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Brian Reading / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"11 Best Plants for Houston Landscaping","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/1789c/Market-Square-Park.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/107df/Market-Square-Park.jpg 320w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/293e9/Market-Square-Park.jpg 500w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/f2cbb/Market-Square-Park.jpg 800w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/1789c/Market-Square-Park.jpg 960w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/c26c2/Market-Square-Park.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/1dd6e/Market-Square-Park.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/67b76/Market-Square-Park.webp 320w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/8df11/Market-Square-Park.webp 500w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/98a65/Market-Square-Park.webp 800w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/1dd6e/Market-Square-Park.webp 960w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/3cc96/Market-Square-Park.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Plants for Houston Landscaping","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Plants add charm to your yard. Here is an introduction to native plants that will turn your ordinary garden amazing right here in Houston"}}},{"node":{"id":"7a337484-8ea1-5e71-9744-079411339872","slug":"best-grass-central-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/best-grass-central-texas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Abdul Wadood is a writer and SEO specialist from India. He recently started writing about lawns and enjoys it. In his spare time, he enjoys going on trips.","name":"Abdul Wadood","id":"236127ca-c7a6-50bb-9ab7-dd3e7e3fe6d8","path":"/author/abdul-wadood/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/395f0103c8419fd32e2c021818b78121?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 2nd, 2023","excerpt":"Central Texas is hot, dry, and sunny most of the year — not ideal conditions for growing a beautiful lawn. But while many homeowners here have gone the xeriscape route, know that it IS possible to have a lush, green lawn. Fortunately, many grasses have adapted to our famously arid climate. So if you’re looking […]
\n","content":"\nCentral Texas is hot, dry, and sunny most of the year — not ideal conditions for growing a beautiful lawn. But while many homeowners here have gone the xeriscape route, know that it IS possible to have a lush, green lawn.
\n\n\n\nFortunately, many grasses have adapted to our famously arid climate. So if you’re looking to plant a new lawn, consider these options and then be sure to provide the care it needs to thrive in these challenging conditions.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nBefore diving deeper, here’s a quick overlook of the two primary types of grasses.
\n\n\n\nCentral Texas has a humid subtropical climate, meaning the summers are long and hot, while the winters are short and cold. Sometimes, the region experiences windy, wet winters.
\n\n\n\nDrought- and heat-tolerant grasses perform best in Central Texas, so, we recommend you choose warm-season grasses. Here’s a list of the best warm-season grass types.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWith its green, medium-coarse blades, Zoysiagrass is an attractive option. It’s durable but takes time to recover from damage. Zoysiagrass has an extensive root system, making it tolerant to drought and shade.
\n\n\n\nWhile it’s popular throughout Texas, Zoysiagrass is on the expensive side because it’s both hardy and requires little maintenance. It needs little fertilization and can resist diseases and insects. Zoysiagrass can take a long time to spread and form dense turf, but it grows quicker under full sun.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass grows fast and has a beautiful dark-green appearance. It’s highly durable and quickly recovers from damage. In fact, you can even find Bermudagrass on football fields.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass grows best in full sun and can tolerate drought. It will go dormant when it’s too cold, which is rare in Central Texas. On the downside, Bermudagrass is high-maintenance. It requires frequent mowing and fertilization.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St.-Augustinegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is one of the best grasses for Central Texas. It has a gorgeous appearance with broad, dark green grass blades. St. Augustinegrass tolerates cold better than Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass, but, it goes dormant when soil temperatures go below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a bunch of trees on your lawn, St. Augustinegrass is a great option, as it does just fine in the shade. It tolerates drought, too. St. Augustinegrass grows fast, but that also means it requires frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, this species doesn’t tolerate high foot traffic, so, if you plan to use your lawn heavily, we recommend you avoid this grass.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass has green, medium-textured grass blades. It grows slowly but forms a dense lawn once established. This turf grows best under full sun but also tolerates shade and drought.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass can resist diseases and doesn’t require much maintenance. It has a shallow root system, making it unsuitable for saline soils. Centipedegrass can handle kids and pets playing in your yard but not really heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/buffalograss.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is popular with homeowners across Central Texas. Much of its appeal owes to the fact that it’s soft to walk on, thanks to its fine-textured grass blades, but it doesn’t tolerate high foot traffic. Buffalograss grows best in full sun and doesn’t require frequent watering. Overwatering invites weeds.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is a low-maintenance turf that grows in almost all soil types. It also resists diseases and insects.
\n\n\n\nBest Grasses at a Glance
\n\n\n\n| Warm-Season Grasses | Spreads By | Shade Tolerance | Drought Tolerance | Maintenance Needs | Disease Resistance |
| Zoysiagrass | Rhizomes and stolons | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Bermudagrass | Rhizomes and stolons | Low | High | High | Moderate |
| St. Augustinegrass | Stolons | High | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Centipedegrass | Stolons | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Buffalograss | Stolons | Low | High | Moderate | Low |
St. Augustinegrass does really well in the shade.
If you plan to use your lawn heavily, go for Bermudagrass. Zoysiagrass also tolerates heavy traffic, but it takes time to recover when damaged.
If you want a low-maintenance lawn, Zoysiagrass and buffalograss are the best options.
Bermudagrass and buffalograss have the best tolerance to drought.
Central Texas experiences dry, hot weather for most of the year, so, you won’t go wrong choosing any of these warm-season grasses. It’s important, also, to pick a grass type that best suits your lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nWhat’s next after choosing the correct grass? Select the best native plants. Proper maintenance is also essential to enjoy a healthy lawn year-round.
\n\n\n\nIf you want a gorgeous lawn but don’t have the time to spend on it, Wikilawn’s Central Texas lawn care pros can help.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Tarleton State University, Central Texas / Jzbale / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"The 5 Best Grasses for Central Texas Lawns ","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7883755588673622,"src":"/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/1789c/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/107df/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/293e9/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/f2cbb/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/1789c/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/c26c2/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/1dd6e/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/67b76/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 320w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/8df11/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 500w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/98a65/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 800w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/1dd6e/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 960w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/3cc96/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 5 Best Grasses for Central Texas Lawns | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"We get long, hot summers and short, cold winters in Central Texas. Here are the grasses that grow best in this climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"5f3e0273-dd46-5025-89b5-dd524eafe740","slug":"best-native-plants-north-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/best-native-plants-north-texas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Stuart Kushner is a writer and aspiring product designer based in New York City. When he isn’t doing either, Stuart enjoys heavy metal music, exercise, and trying new food and drinks.","name":"Stuart Kushner","id":"82e51515-0cd6-5b19-a026-570eb408a24e","path":"/author/stuart-kushner/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/159400686ba92aeb1f5d3503e0246fc1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 2nd, 2023","excerpt":"If you’re a nature lover, North Texas delivers. It’s a scenic wonderland with a massive array of plants and flowers bursting from the countryside. So why do some homeowners insist on stocking their landscape with plants that are pretty, yes, but that require incredible effort to keep alive and looking good? The alternative is pretty […]
\n","content":"\nIf you’re a nature lover, North Texas delivers. It’s a scenic wonderland with a massive array of plants and flowers bursting from the countryside.
\n\n\n\nSo why do some homeowners insist on stocking their landscape with plants that are pretty, yes, but that require incredible effort to keep alive and looking good? The alternative is pretty simple: Use easy-to-grow native plants for your North Texas yard.
\n\n\n\nThere are great reasons for using native plants:
\n\n\n\nAnd, by the way, they look incredible. Let’s take a look at some of the best of the natives.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nTexas is the second largest state in the United States. It’s so big, in fact, that different regions of the state have different climates. For example, North Texas is cooler and drier than South Texas but receives more rainfall than desert-like West Texas.
\n\n\n\nBecause the climate varies so much, each region has a different hardiness zone, indicating what plants thrive in which area. North Texas is in USDA hardiness zone 8, meaning the lowest temperatures are between 10 and 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nIt’s important to know these distinctions when choosing plants. Texas is not a one-size-fits-all state. Here are some of the best options for North Texas.
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/verbena-.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAbundant along Texas roadways, prairie verbena has a long flowering season from March to October. It sprouts purple flowers, each with five petals, and it regularly reseeds. These flowers are adored by butterflies and bees.
\n\n\n\nPrairie verbena likes partial shade to full sun and tolerates moderate drought conditions. It prefers dry to moist, well-drained soils.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering plant/wildflower
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, or sand, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6-12 inches tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\n![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Salvia_splendens_scarlet_sage_1_49081380101.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you like red flowers, you’ll love scarlet sage, which explodes with bright blooms from February through October. It attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, and is deer-resistant. However, it needs regular watering and loose, well-drained, rocky soil to thrive.
\n\n\n\nScarlet sage thrives in full sun, is easy to grow, and is pest- and disease-tolerant. Pair it with other annuals and perennial plants for the best results.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering plant
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy, loam, clay loam, rocky, caliche type
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual, but usually reseeds easily
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1-3 feet tall, 1 foot wide
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Leucophyllum_frutescens_Purple_Sage_W_IMG_1125.jpg\")
Photo Credit: J.M. Garg / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nTexas sage has many names, ranging from the barometer bush to the Texas silverleaf. It can withstand heat and drought and requires almost no maintenance once established. Purple flowers sprout in the summer and fall, although some have white or pink flowers.
\n\n\n\nTexas sage requires full sun to bloom and likes alkaline, well-drained soil. If your yard has both those conditions, this is the sage for you.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained alkaline soil or acidic soil with added dolomitic limestone
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/51445852302_7416c139f3_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as the plains blackfoot, the blackfoot daisy is native to desert slopes, mesas, and high plains. It blooms from early spring through fall, growing brilliant white flowers. It’s a perfect plant for edging beds or rocky outcroppings.
\n\n\n\nBlackfoot daisy loves full sun but can handle light shade, and is deer-resistant. It does, however, need well-drained soil to thrive.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSun: Sun, part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Dry, rocky, calcareous
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 inches to 1 foot tall and wide
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mexican-Plum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Charles Willgren / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAs you would expect from its name, the Mexican plum tree sprouts purple plums in the fall and beautiful white flowers in the spring. At maturity, it grows to 20 to 25 feet tall with spreading branches, making it a good choice for smaller gardens.
\n\n\n\nThe Mexican plum tolerates drough, but it does like some irrigation to help it retain its fruits in the fall. It also handles shade well.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Adapts to sandy, loam, clay, or limestone. Prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 25 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"white](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Pavonia_hastata1DavidMidgley.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David Midgley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nA very popular plant in Texas, the pavonia, or rock rose, resides naturally on dry, rocky woods or banks of Texas. Its long bloom period and versatility make it a favorite among homeowners; it accepts full sun to half-day shade, various soils, and dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nThe pavonia bears pink hibiscus-like flowers between spring and fall, which open in the morning and close in the afternoon, when the temperature is highest.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Rocky, sandy, clay, loam
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1.5-4 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Turks_Cap_323002703-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you have a shady yard, the Turk’s cap red is worth planting. It sprouts bright-red, hibiscus-like flowers that resemble a Turkish turban (hence the name). Turk’s cap red attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, and is drought-tolerant once established.
\n\n\n\nTurk’s Cap Red is native to South Texas, where it’s used as a perennial. In North Texas, however, it’s used as an annual. Don’t worry, it does just fine here.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial sun, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy, loamy, clay, limestone
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2-3 feet tall (up to 9 feet), 3-5 feet wide
\n\n\n\n
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
Attention hummingbird, butterfly, and moth lovers: the coral honeysuckle is the right plant for you! This plant sprouts bright red trumpet flowers with shiny oval leaves from March to June. Red berries follow in the fall.
\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle thrives in full sun to partial shade in rich, well-drained soil. Though the deer will eat the flowers, the plant as a whole is fairly deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Vine
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 4-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, sand, loam, slightly acidic, well-drained. It acclimates to many soil types.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Semi-evergreen perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15-20 feet
\n\n\n\nNative plants grow in an area without human introduction, while non-native plants were introduced to the area where they now grow. Non-native plants may adapt to an area over time, but they generally aren’t as hardy as natives.
Invasive plants are non-native plants that tend to spread out of control. As their name implies, they ‘invade’ native plants’ space and take their moisture, sunlight, and nutrients, leading to poorer water quality, degraded wildlife habitats, and lower plant diversity.
The Bureau of Land Management states that native plants face numerous threats. These include habitat loss, overgrazing, wildfires, pollution, climate change, and invasive species.
Once you buy your plants, your lawn is next. Get one of North Texas’ best grass types to ensure you have the healthiest lawn possible. Then hire one of Wikilawn’s local pros to do the dirty work for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Coral Honeysuckle / Paul VanDerWerf / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"Best Native Plants for Your North Texas Yard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3683010262257698,"src":"/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/1789c/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/107df/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/293e9/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/f2cbb/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/1789c/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/c26c2/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/1dd6e/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/67b76/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.webp 320w,\n/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/8df11/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.webp 500w,\n/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/98a65/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.webp 800w,\n/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/1dd6e/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.webp 960w,\n/static/7e306c10ecc6e5161fc33b50ba7b7614/3cc96/52199708325_a6dd5b4674_h-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Native Plants for Your North Texas Yard | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"North Texas has an array of stunning native plants that thrive in our climate, so you won’t have to struggle to keep them alive"}}},{"node":{"id":"08d55eaf-d54d-5c80-93ef-571572b0bf60","slug":"best-grass-east-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/best-grass-east-texas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Stuart Kushner is a writer and aspiring product designer based in New York City. When he isn’t doing either, Stuart enjoys heavy metal music, exercise, and trying new food and drinks.","name":"Stuart Kushner","id":"82e51515-0cd6-5b19-a026-570eb408a24e","path":"/author/stuart-kushner/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/159400686ba92aeb1f5d3503e0246fc1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 2nd, 2023","excerpt":"Houston, we have a problem … a lawn problem. East Texas is humid, rainy, and blazing hot, with frequent hurricanes. Such volatile weather conditions make lawn care difficult but certainly not impossible. Warm-season grasses grow best in hot summer areas, letting them thrive in East Texas’ intense heat. Below are the best grasses for East […]
\n","content":"\nHouston, we have a problem … a lawn problem. East Texas is humid, rainy, and blazing hot, with frequent hurricanes. Such volatile weather conditions make lawn care difficult but certainly not impossible.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow best in hot summer areas, letting them thrive in East Texas’ intense heat. Below are the best grasses for East Texas and its sometimes-intense climate.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is drought-tolerant, moderately shade-tolerant, and cold-tolerant, making it a popular choice for lawns in East Texas. It also handles foot traffic well, so it does well on lawns.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass comes in at least 11 varieties, all used as turfgrass. Some varieties perform better at higher mowing heights, while others have improved shade tolerance. The type of Zoysiagrass you choose depends on your environment and how much work you plan to do.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow about once a week
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bubble-on-St.-Augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompared to other warm-season grasses, St. Augustinegrass tolerates shade well. It’s drought tolerant as well (although not as much as Zoysiagrass) and can handle being cut at higher heights.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Handles tall mowing heights
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: James Becwar JamesBecwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want a low-maintenance lawn, consider centipedegrass. Centipedegrass performs best in East Texas’ acidic soils and requires little mowing, fertilization, and irrigation. However, it needs irrigation to combat drought (which it can be sensitive to). It also doesn’t like heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow every 7 to 10 days
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is versatile because it tolerates drought and foot traffic exceptionally well. For this reason, it’s perfectly suited for golf courses, athletic fields, and lawns and comes in many varieties.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass isn’t low-maintenance, as it requires frequent mowing and occasional fertilization. It also doesn’t like shady areas, so avoid it if you have a shady backyard.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Both stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nIf you have a shady lawn, St. Augustinegrass is your best bet. Zoysiagrass and centipedegrass are also shade-tolerant, but avoid bermudagrass, which doesn’t like shade.
The most drought-tolerant grasses are St. Augustinegrass and Bermudagrass.
Zoysiagrass only requires mowing once a week, making it the most low-maintenance, but centipedegrass is worth looking into if you don’t mind mowing a little more often (7 to 10 days).
If you plan on having many people and animals on your lawn often, bermudagrass and zoysiagrass are the way to go.
Picking the right grass for your East Texas lawn boils down to your living space and how much work you want to put into your lawn. There isn’t a “one size fits all” type of grass.
\n\n\n\nOnce you’re ready with your chosen grass, contact Wikilawn’s lawn care pros, and we’ll give you a green, lush lawn. You won’t need to lift a finger.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Alamo / Nan Palmero / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"The Best Grass for Your East Texas Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/1789c/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/107df/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 320w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/293e9/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 500w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/f2cbb/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 800w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/1789c/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 960w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/c26c2/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/1dd6e/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/67b76/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 320w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/8df11/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 500w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/98a65/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 800w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/1dd6e/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 960w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/3cc96/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Best Grass for Your East Texas Lawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"East Texas has unpredictable weather and intense heat, but these grasses don’t mind the weather and will thrive in East Texas."}}},{"node":{"id":"a77ae56c-2523-51d9-b032-bc80f173ca09","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-texas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Stuart Kushner is a writer and aspiring product designer based in New York City. When he isn’t doing either, Stuart enjoys heavy metal music, exercise, and trying new food and drinks.","name":"Stuart Kushner","id":"82e51515-0cd6-5b19-a026-570eb408a24e","path":"/author/stuart-kushner/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/159400686ba92aeb1f5d3503e0246fc1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 2nd, 2023","excerpt":"When Texas gets hotter than a fur coat in Marfa, yard work becomes unbearable to even think about. So if time with your family is more important than time with your yard, you might consider adopting some low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your Texas yard. Low-maintenance landscaping is, as you’d expect, landscaping that requires minimal care. […]
\n","content":"\nWhen Texas gets hotter than a fur coat in Marfa, yard work becomes unbearable to even think about. So if time with your family is more important than time with your yard, you might consider adopting some low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your Texas yard.
\n\n\n\nLow-maintenance landscaping is, as you’d expect, landscaping that requires minimal care. It doesn’t need as much water, fertilizer, mowing, or pest control. In addition to cutting down on yard work, low-maintenance landscaping helps restore habitats for wildlife and pollinators, so everyone wins.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nTexas spans 800 miles from north to south and east to west, giving it a wide range of climatic conditions. For example, East Texas is more humid and wetter than desert-like West Texas, and North Texas is cooler than South Texas. Think of it as going from the desert to the rainforest.
\n\n\n\nBecause Texas’ climate varies so much, landscaping is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. For example, if you live in the desert, you probably won’t get a lush, green lawn, so consider artificial turf or xeriscaping.
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Nick Bastian / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHey, speak of the devil! Artificial turf gives you all the benefits of a lawn without the fertilizing, mowing, and watering. You can use it to increase your home’s curb appeal, give your kids and pets a yard to run around in, or use it as a bocce ball court or putting green.
\n\n\n\nBut if you want a natural lawn, it’s important to start with a grass that not only survives but thrives in your area, whether it’s the wet, humid coastal regions or the hot, dry western reaches of the state.
\n\n\n\nThe following grasses are some of the best in Texas:
\n\n\n\nThere’s no single grass that works for every lawn. Your grass choice will be affected by how much shade your lawn gets, how much foot traffic it can withstand, and how drought-tolerant it is.
\n\n\n\nFor a more in-depth look at the best grass types in Texas, see this article.
\n\n\n\n![\"Straggler](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Straggler-Daisy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you don’t like the idea of fake grass, consider ground covers. Ground covers don’t grow tall, and they spread horizontally. You don’t need to mow them, which reduces yard work, and they are dense enough to keep weeds from getting a foothold.
\n\n\n\nHowever, ground covers are still plants, and require water, sunlight, and, in some cases, fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of ground covers you can plant are:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Texas-Patio.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Texas Custom Patios / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardscapes are any non-living elements in your yard. Hardscapes increase your backyard’s functionality, expand and enhance your living spaces, and boost your home’s curb appeal. Additionally, hardscapes reduce maintenance since there’s less grass to mow.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of hardscapes include:
\n\n\n\n![\"berries](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Callicarpa_americana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Korall / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPlanting native plants cuts down on work and money substantially. Native plants are adapted to the climate, so they don’t need as much attention as non-native plants.
\n\n\n\nTexas’ variable climate means some plants do better in specific areas. For example, the beautyberry grows best in Central Texas, while the Arizona cypress thrives in West Texas.
\n\n\n\nWhile you can still grow beautyberry in North Texas or an Arizona cypress in South Texas; doing so just means these plants go from “low-maintenance” to “high-maintenance.” Not so enjoyable when the temperature climbs to 100°F.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Plumbago.jpg\")
Photo Credit: No machine-readable author provided. Calvin Teo assumed (based on copyright claims). / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennials make for a great garden, and they don’t cost a bundle. For many homeowners, winter becoming spring means buying and planting new plants (annuals) to replace the dead ones. Perennials grow back every year, meaning you don’t have to buy new plants, and once they’re established, they don’t need as much maintenance.
\n\n\n\nA few examples of perennials you can grow are:
\n\n\n\n![\"Xeriscaped](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/xeriscaped-lawn-austin-tx.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Downtowngal / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you overwater your plants, you’ll waste water. If you underwater them, they’ll be browner than a bear. Xeriscaping achieves a happy medium.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping is a style of landscaping which aims to conserve water, lowering your utility bills in the process. It involves choosing native plants that don’t need much maintenance, attracting birds and butterflies, and saving money on fertilizers and pesticides.
\n\n\n\nHere are a few tips to help you get started with xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nThere are countless ways to keep lawn chores to a minimum and spend less time in the Texas sun. However, when summer comes, and the heat becomes unbearable, even a few minutes can seem like an eternity.
\n\n\n\nInstead of landscaping and gardening yourself, hire one of Wikilawn’s local pros to do them for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Zilker Botanical Garden / LoneStarMike / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"Best Low-Maintenance Landscaping for Your Texas Yard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/1789c/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/107df/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/293e9/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/f2cbb/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.jpg 800w,\n/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/1789c/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.jpg 960w,\n/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/c26c2/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/1dd6e/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/67b76/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.webp 320w,\n/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/8df11/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.webp 500w,\n/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/98a65/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.webp 800w,\n/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/1dd6e/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.webp 960w,\n/static/b0d587453a363923f873694a20ad2e99/3cc96/Zilker-Botanical-Garden.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Your Texas Yard","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tired of doing yard work in the hot Texas sun? Here are some low- maintenance landscaping ideas for your yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"1b462fef-a527-58cb-8788-eca85bd398dc","slug":"best-native-plants-northern-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/northern-virginia/best-native-plants-northern-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"5dd0bcb4-bbab-5a8b-9920-c939eab0b702","name":"Northern Virginia","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/northern-virginia/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"May 1st, 2023","excerpt":"Northern Virginia has some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. With rolling hills, sprawling forests, and winding rivers, it’s no wonder that residents and visitors alike are drawn to the region’s natural beauty. One of the most rewarding ways to connect with the environment is by planting the best native plants for […]
\n","content":"\nNorthern Virginia has some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. With rolling hills, sprawling forests, and winding rivers, it’s no wonder that residents and visitors alike are drawn to the region’s natural beauty. One of the most rewarding ways to connect with the environment is by planting the best native plants for Northern Virginia that thrive in this unique environment.
\n\n\n\nLearn more about eight native plants that will add color, texture, and interest to your Northern Virginia backyard. From vibrant wildflowers to amazing groundcovers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this guide.
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer the following benefits:
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover the following:
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Columbine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe red columbine makes a spectacular and eye-catching addition to any Northern Virginia backyard. Its upright stems boast spurred flowers adorned with vivid scarlet sepals, yellow petals, and copious yellow stamens.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, even after the blooms have withered away, this plant develops into a charming ground cover that adds depth and intrigue to your garden. Additionally, red columbine has a natural tendency to self-seed, ensuring an endless array of vibrant hues that will grace your garden year after year.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Semi-evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8 – 10 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The sap may irritate the skin.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Low. For enhanced blooming, it is advisable to remove the faded flower stems. Trimming the stems to ground level is recommended when the foliage begins to decline.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_5039631314_ddce7f9f0e_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter O’Connor aka anemoneprojectors / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want an effortless but captivating element in your yard, consider adding the common yarrow. This plant forms clumps and showcases dainty clusters of soft pink flowers on strong, upright stems, which will capture the attention of fluttering butterflies and bees.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, common yarrow is exceptionally low-maintenance, making it a perfect option for individuals with busy schedules who desire to appreciate the charm of native plants in their outdoor areas.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: The fragrance of the plant is frequently characterized as strong, with some comparing it to chrysanthemums, whereas others perceive it as having a resemblance to cabbage.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer and early autumn.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 – 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: It is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. To achieve an extended blooming season, it is advisable to regularly remove spent flowers. Once the initial blooming has ceased, trim the plant considerably to maintain a tidy and well-proportioned appearance.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Wild-Indigo.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConsider adding the Yellow Wild Indigo if you desire a joyful and low-maintenance plant. Its charming, petite pea-like flowers in vivid hues of yellow to creamy white are sure to infuse your garden with a sunny disposition. As a native plant, it is attractive. It entices pollinators like butterflies and bees, making it an ideal inclusion for any garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sand. Acid. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Dry to moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 – 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous if consumed in large quantities.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. It is advisable not to relocate this plant once it has established itself. Attempting to grow it from seed may pose a challenge.
\n\n\n\nThe white turtlehead is a mesmerizing and beautiful native plant species that showcases dense terminal spikes of two-lipped, pink-tinged, or white flowers resembling a turtle’s head.
\n\n\n\nIncorporating the white turtlehead into your garden will make your space unique and intriguing. It entices pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds, infusing your outdoor area with vibrancy and liveliness.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer and autumn.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate to high.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low.
\n\n\n\n![\"Maryland](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Maryland-Golden-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: BeckyLaboy / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want to incorporate a touch of golden radiance into your backyard, consider the Maryland goldenaster. This stunning plant flaunts brilliant yellow flowers illuminating any garden with their cheerful glow. Moreover, the Maryland goldenaster is a sturdy and versatile species that can flourish in different soil types and lighting conditions, making it an adaptable inclusion to any backyard scenery.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer and autumn.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. To encourage prolonged blossoms, remove spent flowers regularly. During the winter season, trim the plant down to the ground.
\n\n\n\n![\"Spring](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Spring-Beauty.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dcrjsr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIntroducing spring beauty to your yard will create a dazzling burst of beauty. Its star-shaped, pale pink and white flowers will not only please your eyes but also attract pollinators to your backyard. Additionally, spring beauty is a groundcover plant that spreads widely, forming a carpet of foliage that enhances the texture and intrigue of your landscape.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: It exudes a subtle and refined fragrance that combines hints of delicate sweetness, muskiness, and florals.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 10 inches
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate. It rapidly naturalizes through bulb offsets and self-seeding.
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3694407592_5d15f78c77_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Calvin Webster / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Eastern Rose-mallow is a native shrub with magnificent hollyhock-like flowers in shades of white, pink, red, or burgundy, blossoming from midsummer to autumn. Not only does it tolerate heat, humidity, and wet soil, but it also has a slight salt tolerance, making it an ideal option for gardeners living near the coast.
\n\n\n\nAlthough individual flowers have a brief lifespan, the blooming period usually endures for a month, offering ample time to relish the plant’s stunning beauty in your home garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer to early autumn.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate to wet.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. To maintain a neat appearance of your plant, remove each flower as it withers. In late autumn, trim the stems to approximately 3 to 4 inches. Although new growth may slowly emerge in the spring, it will advance swiftly once it commences. Regularly fertilizing your plants during the growing season is advisable to encourage robust growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"Turk’s-cap](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Turks-cap-Lily.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Shenandoah National Park / Flickr / Public Domain Mark 1.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Turk’s-cap Lily is a stunning herbaceous plant that grows up to 8 feet tall and features striking clusters of orange-red flowers that resemble Turk’s-cap hats. This native plant adds beauty to your yard. It supports local wildlife, as it’s a favorite of hummingbirds and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nWith its adaptability to the region’s climate and soil, the Turk’s-cap Lily is an excellent choice for Northern Virginia yards. Including this plant in your landscape will add a distinctive and captivating element to your home.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: With subtle notes of citrus and spice, this plant emits a pleasant, sweet fragrance.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to wet.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to cats.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate. For the bulb to grow at its best, it is recommended to plant it 5 to 6 inches deep and add a layer of mulch to keep the soil moist.
\n\n\n\nAlthough native plants can enhance any garden, it is essential to acknowledge that not all will flourish in your yard. Several factors, such as sunlight, soil quality, and irrigation, must be considered when selecting plants.
\n\n\n\nNorthern Virginia is situated in USDA hardiness zones 6 and 7, so ensure that you choose plants appropriate for this area. To guarantee your garden’s triumph, select plants that can adapt to the conditions of your land. Doing so will result in an attractive landscape that enhances the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nThe conservation of biodiversity relies heavily on preserving areas of native vegetation remnants. Such areas support a rich and diverse ecosystem that benefits the environment by:
• Purifying water and air
• Regulating the climate
• Maintaining soil quality
• Providing essential resources and food for native animal species.
Native plants are preferable to non-native plants to promote a healthy and sustainable ecosystem.
There are plenty of native plants you can choose from. Here’s a list of them:
• Whorled Coreopsis (Coreopsis verticillata)
• Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica)
• Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
• Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida)
• Button Bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)
• Common Winterberry (Ilex verticillata)
• Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
• Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
• Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus)
• Wild Blue Phlox (Phlox divaricata)
• Flowering Dogwood (Cornus Florida)
Generally, plants thrive in potting soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Watering once or twice a week is often enough in spring and summer. However, during fall and winter, plants require less frequent watering. Keep in mind that the watering needs of plants vary depending on their species and your location.
Southeast Virginia’s native plants include:
• Red chokeberry
• Common buttonbush
• American beautyberry
• American witch hazel
• Common winterberry
• Eastern redbud
• Flowering dogwood
• Black huckleberry
• Butterfly milkweed
• Beebalm
Plants native to Virginia’s Capital Region include:
• Black oak
• Willow oak
• Sassafras
• Common partridge-pea
• Smooth oxeye
• Arrow arum
• Wild pink
• Red chokeberry
It’s recommended to buy native plants from local nurseries. Plants purchased from a local nursery are usually better adapted to the area’s climate and soil, making them more resilient and easier to care for.
\n\n\n\nLocal nurseries are often experts in native plants, and their staff can provide valuable advice on planting and maintenance.
\n\n\n\nVisit the Virginia Native Plant Society website to explore the available sustainability programs and native plant guides and learn about the significance of using native plants in Northern Virginia.
\n\n\n\nAs you embark on your landscaping project in Northern Virginia, remember that selecting the right plant is only the first step. Maintaining your lawn’s health is equally important to ensure your landscape’s long-term success.
\n\n\n\nLooking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Falls Church, Arlington, Alexandria, and in many more cities across Northern Virginia.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Katja Schulz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"8 Best Native Plants for Northern Virginia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/1789c/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/107df/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.jpg 320w,\n/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/293e9/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.jpg 500w,\n/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/f2cbb/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.jpg 800w,\n/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/1789c/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.jpg 960w,\n/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/c26c2/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/1dd6e/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/67b76/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.webp 320w,\n/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/8df11/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.webp 500w,\n/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/98a65/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.webp 800w,\n/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/1dd6e/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.webp 960w,\n/static/f16e7d2c19e049ddb9f6f531a10e8df7/3cc96/Virginia-Spring-Beauty.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Native Plants for Northern Virginia","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover 8 best native plants for Northern Virginia. These low-maintenance plants not only add beauty to your landscape but also promote the sustainability of the local ecosystem."}}}],"blogPages":[{"id":"ck16oqdtd8fk70a30n2rnn4t8","metaTitle":"WikiLawn | Lawn Care Advice for your Area | Outdoor Services","metaDescription":"Lawn Care Advice for your Area | Outdoor Services"}],"prevPageLink":"/blog/page/28/","nextPageLink":"/blog/page/30/","currentPage":29}}}