![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
With its long, snowy winters and hot summers, Northeast Ohio can be a tough climate for people, animals and plants – lawns included. That doesn’t mean you can’t have a show-stopper of a lawn, though. You just have to choose the right grass and take care of it properly. So, keep that in mind when […]
\n","content":"\nWith its long, snowy winters and hot summers, Northeast Ohio can be a tough climate for people, animals and plants – lawns included. That doesn’t mean you can’t have a show-stopper of a lawn, though. You just have to choose the right grass and take care of it properly.
\n\n\n\nSo, keep that in mind when planting grass in Cleveland, Akron, Youngstown, or any of the other areas near Lake Erie. If you do, you’ll want to be familiar with these four types of grass, all of which make for an excellent Northeast Ohio lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThere are two basic types of grass: warm-season and cool-season grasses. But Northeast Ohio is known for warm summers and cold, snowy winters made worse by the lake effect from Lake Erie. Even the spring and fall can be chilly and rainy. So which is better for this area?
\n\n\n\nHere’s a look at each:
\n\n\n\nBecause of Northeast Ohio’s cooler climate, most homeowners sow their lawns with cool-season grass. You can mix in some warm-season grass seed, but be aware that may require extra effort to take care of it.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to cultivate a gorgeous lawn in Northeast Ohio, these four grass types are among the best places to start.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nOn its own, perennial ryegrass is very hardy and durable, so much so that it’s often used on athletic fields. However, thanks to selective breeding to improve its quality, it has steadily made its way to home lawns nationwide, including here.
\n\n\n\nThe true strength of this cool-season grass is its ability to pair well with other grass types, particularly Kentucky bluegrass. Combining perennial ryegrass with other grasses can increase its tolerance to foot traffic and cold weather while enabling faster germination.
\n\n\n\nIf you live in an area that experiences periods of drought, know that perennial ryegrass requires extra care and water, as it does not withstand dry conditions as well as other grass types. It also doesn’t have the best disease resistance, but a fertilizer heavy on nitrogen can give it the energy to make up for that.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fine-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nFine fescue refers not to a single grass species but to a subspecies of Festuca, including creeping red fescue, hard fescue, sheep fescue, and chewings fescue. These fine-textured turfgrasses can tolerate various soil conditions, including dry and acidic soils. They also grow quite well in the shade.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue grasses germinate quickly but establish slowly, making them ideal for lawns with a low mowing frequency. Most fine fescues are bunching grasses, though creeping red fescue is rhizomatous.
\n\n\n\nWhile fine fescues are very low-maintenance grasses, they go dormant in extreme heat. They also don’t tolerate foot traffic well. However, it’s rare to see any of the fine fescues grown outside of seed mixes.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a coarse bunching turfgrass. It can tolerate drought and heat better than most other cool-season grasses, and you can get away with light irrigation during the typically mild Northeast Ohio summer.
\n\n\n\nWhile this grass prefers as much sun as possible, you can grow it in partial shade. Tall fescue will remain green well into the summer with the proper care, thanks to its extensive root structure.
\n\n\n\nTall fescues grow rapidly during the spring and require more frequent mowing than other grasses. It’s possible to keep tall fescue at a height of three inches to help minimize weeds, but modern cultivars tolerate a shorter mowing just fine.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is one of the most popular turfgrasses in Ohio, for a good reason. This fine-textured, blue-green grass produces rhizomes that spread underground, allowing Kentucky bluegrass to create a thick sod that stands up to foot traffic. While it may go dormant during a drought, it rebounds easily once it gets water.
\n\n\n\nSome cultivars tolerate shade better than others, with the key word being ‘tolerate’. For best performance, you must plant your Kentucky bluegrass in an area where it will get a lot of sunlight. Mixing in other grasses, such as one of the fine fescues for improved shade tolerance, is a common practice with Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nIt can fill in quickly, even during the off-growing season, maintaining a lush appearance. However, that beautiful carpet of fine sod requires higher maintenance than other cool-season grasses. You will need to apply fertilizer heavily when planting it, with less frequent fertilization in subsequent years.
\n\n\n\nEven though many of the cool-season grasses in Northeast Ohio don’t require much maintenance, you still need to put in some work on your lawn. With the proper equipment, an investment of time, and knowledge, you can have a lush green lawn almost all year round. And with the help of a local lawn care pro, you can take the hassle out of maintaining your landscape.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Tim Evanson / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grasses For Northeast Ohio","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/1789c/lawn-in-ohio.jpg","srcSet":"/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/107df/lawn-in-ohio.jpg 320w,\n/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/293e9/lawn-in-ohio.jpg 500w,\n/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/f2cbb/lawn-in-ohio.jpg 800w,\n/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/1789c/lawn-in-ohio.jpg 960w,\n/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/c26c2/lawn-in-ohio.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/1dd6e/lawn-in-ohio.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/67b76/lawn-in-ohio.webp 320w,\n/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/8df11/lawn-in-ohio.webp 500w,\n/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/98a65/lawn-in-ohio.webp 800w,\n/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/1dd6e/lawn-in-ohio.webp 960w,\n/static/75750b7803196655dbaa01d69cbf3341/3cc96/lawn-in-ohio.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grasses For Northeast Ohio | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"If you want a great lawn in Northeast Ohio, these four kinds of grass are the best place to start."}}},{"node":{"id":"0636b7c9-4161-5503-8091-e0c7443180df","slug":"best-grass-types-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/best-grass-types-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"Virginia is known for its hot summers and moderately cold winters, so you may often choose to stay home and relax in your own backyard. Whether it’s playing lawn games or having a family barbecue, it won’t be as memorable on a brown, grim-looking turfgrass. By examining the best grass types for Virginia, the only […]
\n","content":"\nVirginia is known for its hot summers and moderately cold winters, so you may often choose to stay home and relax in your own backyard. Whether it’s playing lawn games or having a family barbecue, it won’t be as memorable on a brown, grim-looking turfgrass. By examining the best grass types for Virginia, the only words to describe your lawn will be healthy and luscious green.
\n\n\n\nAlong with having several plant hardiness zones, Virginia is divided into 5 regions that include Piedmont and Tidewater. It also lies in the transition zone, so there’s never one definitive answer to which grass seed will thrive in your area. Northern parts of the state are more suitable for cool-season grasses, while cities in the Coastal Plain area are better suited for warm-season grasses. The upcoming section will highlight the best types of grasses for every major part of your beloved state.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith a wide variety of grass types to choose from, it is important to distinguish between warm- and cool-season grass. Here are some of their main differences:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. During the winter, warm-season grasses will turn brown and become dormant. They have low frost-tolerance, enjoy high temperatures, and require less water than cool-season grasses. Warm-season grasses include Zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They are able to tolerate frost, lower light, and lower temperatures than warm-season grasses. They can stay green throughout the winter, especially in transition zones like Virginia. Cool-season turfgrasses include tall fescue, creeping red fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a bunch-type grass known for its adaptability to a wide range of climates. It is suitable for northern and southern transition zones. This grass type germinates quicker than other cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass. Additionally, tall fescue has a deep root system, giving it a superior heat and drought tolerance. One downside to this grass is that it grows in clumps, limiting its capacity to self-repair when damage occurs.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue grass can thrive in almost every region across the state, such as Piedmont, Northern Virginia, Coastal Plain, and Southwestern Virginia.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-4.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nOf all the warm-season grasses, zoysiagrass is one of the best in tolerating cold temperatures. With several species and cultivars available, it is a suitable turfgrass for transition zones. It may establish slower than some other warm-season grasses, but will eventually form a dense carpet of grass beneath your feet. You can overseed zoysia lawns with cool-season ryegrass for a green winter color. Overall, this grass type is perfect for families who enjoy lawn games and plenty of backyard activities.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant this grass seed anywhere in Virginia except for the Valley and Ridge region and Blue Ridge Mountains.
\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, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although, it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a self-spreading, sod-forming grass that is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to walk on barefoot. With an aggressive growth habit, it has an excellent capacity for self-repair. This makes Kentucky bluegrass an excellent choice for lawns that need to endure heavy foot traffic. This cool-season grass is not a good fit for shady lawns, so you might want to consider another shade-tolerant grass such as fine fescue.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a great choice for homeowners in Northern Virginia, Piedmont, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass has the fastest growing rate of all warm-season grasses. This helps it recover quickly from damage. Bermudagrass is more sensitive to cold than zoysiagrass, and flourishes in sites with full sun and good drainage. Overall, this turfgrass has excellent wear, drought, and salt tolerance.
\n\n\n\nIt’s important to mention that bermudagrass is not a good fit for shady lawns. If you need a shade-tolerant grass that tolerates foot traffic, zoysiagrass might be the better choice.
\n\n\n\nYou can successfully grow this grass seed if you live in Piedmont, Northern Virginia, Tidewater, and Southwestern Virginia.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid Bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common Bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is best adapted to regions with moderate temperatures throughout the year. It has the highest wear-tolerance of any cool-season grass, with the ability to tolerate heavy foot traffic. This grass species has a rapid germination rate, which makes it ideal for overseeding warm-season grasses. When winter creeps in, overseeding will help extend your lawn’s green period.
\n\n\n\nIf your family occasionally enjoys a few rounds of BucketBall, perennial ryegrass is a great option for your lawn. The Piedmont and Tidewater regions are the only parts of Virginia where this grass seed cannot thrive.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/St-Augustinegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nBeing the least cold-tolerant of all the warm-season grasses, St Augustinegrass grows best in areas that are not exposed to long periods of cold temperatures. It has an aggressive growth habit, but can easily be controlled around borders and flower beds. If you have a shady backyard, this species is the most shade-tolerant of all the warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nSt Augustinegrass has a fair tolerance to salt, making it suitable for the Coastal Plain area. It cannot thrive in any other part of Virginia, particularly the north, as it is very susceptible to winter injury.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate. It is the most shade tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 3.5 and 4 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction.
\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 is commonly known as “lazy man’s grass”, mainly because it requires less mowing and maintenance than other warm-season grasses. This grass species is not very wear-resistant and cannot withstand heavy foot traffic. Unlike other warm-season grasses, centipedegrass is unable to compete with other species, so overseeding with ryegrass is not recommended.
\n\n\n\nSimilar to St Augustinegrass, you can grow this grass seed only if you reside in the Tidewater region.
\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\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is one of the most fine-textured turfgrasses available. It has lower maintenance requirements than Kentucky bluegrass. If you decide to leave this grass unmowed, it will help create an attractive, dune-like appearance. It comes in a variety of species, including creeping red and chewings fescue. Taking the lead as the most shade-tolerant cool-season grass, fine fescue is a great choice if you have sycamore trees shading the lawn.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is often mixed with tall fescue to enhance performance in shady areas. If you live in the Valley and Ridge or Piedmont regions, fine-leaf grass seeds will be a suitable option for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as Chewings, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nThe best grass types for Central Virginia include:
\n\n\n\nThe best grass type for Northern Virginia include:
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a great choice of turfgrass for your backyard in Tidewater. It is a warm-season grass with the ability to tolerate shade, drought, and heavy foot traffic. It performs well during the colder months and resists weed growth, with the only downside being that it recovers slowly from damage.
Tall fescue is an incredibly versatile grass that can grow in nearly every part of Virginia. Being a cool-season grass, it is a perfect fit for Shenandoah Valley. Even if temperatures rise higher than usual, tall fescue has deep root systems that make it drought- and heat-tolerant.
One of the good things about cool-season grasses is that they can be planted in mixtures. Given Northern Virginia’s climate, this approach is preferable than choosing one specific type of grass. For a great mixture of grass seeds that can tolerate cold temperatures, shade, and heavy foot traffic, the following types are recommended:
• Kentucky bluegrass
• Perennial ryegrass
• Fescue such as creeping red
We each want something different out of our backyard. Some homeowners wish to limit outdoor chores with a low-maintenance lawn, while more active families tend to enjoy plenty of lawn games and barbecues. Depending on your personal preferences, you should choose the right type of grass or seed mix that will meet your needs.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to turfgrass, there are more ways to spruce up your backyard and create the ultimate outdoor space. Consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your lawn, including Virginia’s native plants and hardscaping features.
\n\n\n\nRegardless of how low-maintenance your lawn is, it may still require the occasional mowing, pruning, or aerating. Looking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Chesapeake, Arlington, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesterfield, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: PxHere
\n","title":"8 Best Grass Types for Virginia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/1789c/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg","srcSet":"/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/107df/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 320w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/293e9/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 500w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/f2cbb/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 800w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/1789c/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 960w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/c26c2/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/1dd6e/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/67b76/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 320w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/8df11/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 500w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/98a65/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 800w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/1dd6e/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 960w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/3cc96/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Grass Types for Virginia | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With various species to choose from, let’s explore the best grass types for Virginia, and how to maintain a healthy turfgrass in the transition zone."}}},{"node":{"id":"55544e92-5767-5ed0-9e58-cbdcd6d01e03","slug":"best-grass-types-central-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/central-virginia/best-grass-types-central-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"25cd38af-fffb-5477-8494-0145c9f36f4f","name":"Central Virginia","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/central-virginia/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"Home to the state capital, Central Virginia is a historic region with plenty to offer for its nature-loving residents. You can enjoy long, refreshing walks in Powhatan State Park and cherish everything that mother nature has to offer. But every once in a while, you just feel like sluggin’ it in your backyard. When you […]
\n","content":"\nHome to the state capital, Central Virginia is a historic region with plenty to offer for its nature-loving residents. You can enjoy long, refreshing walks in Powhatan State Park and cherish everything that mother nature has to offer. But every once in a while, you just feel like sluggin’ it in your backyard. When you choose the best grass types for Central Virginia, you can transform that grim-looking turf into a lush green lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. They actively grow in late spring and summer, entering dormancy as temperatures drop in winter. These turfgrasses have low frost-tolerance, enjoy high temperatures, and require less water than cool-season grasses. They include bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, centipedegrass, and St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, cool-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They tolerate frost and lower temperatures, actively growing in spring and fall. Cool-season turfgrasses include tall fescue, creeping red fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nCentral Virginia lies in USDA plant hardiness zone 7a, though some parts of Richmond and Chesterfield are in 7b. When it comes to choosing the right turfgrass, the state’s location in the transition zone is a far more decisive factor. The grasses mentioned below are suitable for Central Virginia, and should be able to thrive under the right conditions.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a perennial, bunch-type grass that can adapt to a wide variety of soils. It withstands drought conditions and hot summers better than other cool-season turfgrasses. Tall fescue performs best in full sun, but is also known for its moderate shade-tolerance.
\n\n\n\nTo get the best out of this cool-season grass, overseeding is recommended to maintain a dense lawn and minimize weed competition. With its notable versatility, tall fescue is a great choice for Central Virginia homeowners.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is vital for cool-season grass seed mixes in transition zones, including Virginia. It grows well in early spring and fall, but becomes dormant during the summer. Perennial ryegrass is able to survive severe climates, though Virginia is not prone to such conditions. While it can tolerate lightly shaded lawns, it prefers full sun.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial turfgrass is used to overseed warm-season grasses to extend the lawn’s winter green color.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is another great choice for a Central Virginia lawn. It spreads by both rhizomes and tillers, forming a dense sod. New shoots are primarily produced in the spring and late summer. However, new shoots and leaves are produced year-round in the transition zone. This grass type has good drought tolerance, but little to no shade tolerance. For shady lawns, fine fescue might be a better choice.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass can tolerate heavy foot traffic, making it a great choice for families who enjoy playing Cornhole.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a bunch-type grass with several species, including creeping red and chewings. Its needle-like leaves are quite unique and distinctive. It is a slow-growing grass that does not tolerate poorly-drained soils. Seed mixtures of fine fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are commonly found in garden centers across the state.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is the most shade-tolerant cool-season turfgrass, with all species able to thrive in our Central Virginia climate.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as Chewings, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\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 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is one of the most cold-tolerant warm-season grasses. It produces a dense, cushiony turf when established. It can withstand wear and tear, and requires less water than most cool-season grasses. Its thick growth helps it control crabgrass and other summer weeds. Perennial ryegrass can be used to overseed zoysia for a green winter color.
\n\n\n\nDuring the hot summer months, zoysiagrass will boost your lawn’s visual appeal with an attractive green color. If you enjoy lawn games and outdoor activities, this warm-season turfgrass won’t let you down.
\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, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although, it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a warm-season grass that spreads by both stolons and rhizomes. It has excellent drought, wear, and salt tolerance. Bermudagrass enters dormancy in early winter, which is when the leaves turn straw-brown in color. Due to its rapid growth rate, this turfgrass may develop excessive thatch. Fortunately, it is capable of recovering from injury very quickly.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass will perform very poorly in lawns with constant shade. Despite that, it is well-adapted to most soils and can be used in athletic fields and golf courses.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid Bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common Bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nIf your lawn regularly endures high traffic, a mixture of turf-type tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass is an excellent choice. Kentucky bluegrass has a spreading root system that allows your turf to quickly recover from excessive traffic or drought damage. As mentioned previously, both grass types are suitable for Central Virginia’s climate.
Centipedegrass is a warm-season grass that can only be grown in the Tidewater area. Additionally, this turfgrass cannot withstand heavy foot traffic, so your lawn would be much better off with zoysia or Kentucky bluegrass.
Not only can cogongrass be found in Central Virginia, but throughout the entire state. It is an aggressive and invasive perennial grass that creates dense groundcovers, displacing native plants and some ground-nesting animals.
You can control this invasive species by mowing, grazing, or burning. Unfortunately, none of these methods are entirely effective. To completely remove this plant from your back or front yard, the rhizomes must be destroyed.
Another way to deal with this problem is herbicide control. Imazapyr and glyphosate are two active ingredients that have proven successful in dealing with this non-native plant.
The best grass types for Northern Virginia include:
● Tall fescue
● Kentucky bluegrass
● Perennial ryegrass
● Fine fescue
● Zoysiagrass
● Bermudagrass
With 6 grass types to choose from, the decision-making process might get slightly difficult. You should consider your lawn’s soil type, sun exposure levels, and activity level to help you choose the right grass for your turf. Add some more research to your thinking, and you’ll get to plant some native trees or wildflowers to help boost the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nBut why stop there when you can create the ultimate outdoor space? Consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your Virginia lawn, including mulching and hardscaping.
\n\n\n\nLooking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Powhatan, Mechanicsville, Glen Allen, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Karen Blaha / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
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\n","content":"\nLocated close to our nation’s capital, Northern Virginia boasts distinct character and historical gems. From Old Town Alexandria to the Sky Meadows State Park, there are plenty of charming locations for locals to be proud of. But after having too many adventures, what if you feel like relaxing in your own backyard? By exploring the best grass types for Northern Virginia, you will transform that grim-looking turf into a lush, green lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith a wide variety of grass types to choose from, it is important to distinguish between warm- and cool-season grass. Here are some of their main differences:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. They actively grow in late spring and summer, entering dormancy as temperatures drop in winter. Warm-season grasses have low frost-tolerance, enjoy high temperatures, and require less water than cool-season grasses. They include Zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They tolerate frost and lower temperatures, actively growing in spring and fall. Cool-season turfgrasses include tall fescue, creeping red fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nSituated between Chesapeake Bay and Shenandoah Valley, the Northern Virginia region lies in the transition zone. It is situated in plant hardiness zones 6b to 7b. What matters the most for turfgrasses is the fact the transition zone allows for cool- and warm-season grasses to thrive.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses tend to grow better in Northern Virginia, with a couple of warm-season varieties able to thrive in the area.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nArguably the best turfgrass for Northern Virginia, tall fescue is quite versatile and valued for its adaptability to a wide range of climates. It has greater heat tolerance than other cool-season grasses. It also has a decent shade and drought tolerance, mainly due to its extensive root system. Tall fescue grows in clumps, which may limit its ability to repair itself after damage.
\n\n\n\nThis grass seed can easily grow in Northern Virginia, providing you with a green and aesthetically pleasing lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a rhizomatous plant that is popular among homeowners and gardeners. It produces a dense sod, and forms a dark green turf with good leaf density. This is what helps make it very comfortable to walk on barefoot. This turfgrass can withstand heavy foot traffic, and has an excellent capacity for self-repair due to its aggressive growth habit.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is known for its little to no tolerance for shade, with other varieties such as fine fescue more suitable for shady lawns.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Levin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnother popular species in the area, perennial ryegrass is a key component in cool-season grass seed mixes for northern and transition zone lawns. It flourishes where summers are moderate and winters are cool. This cool-season turfgrass grows in clumps and spreads through vertical shoots rather than rhizomes.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass prefers sunny conditions, but can tolerate lightly shaded lawns. In addition to cool-season grass mixes, it can be used to overseed warm-season turfgrasses to extend the lawn’s winter green period.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a drought-resistant, cool-season turfgrass that is popular for home lawns, commercial properties, and golf courses. It has one of the finest leaf textures of all turfgrasses. Fine fescue is distinguishable by its narrow leaf blades, and comes in five subspecies including creeping red. You can plant this grass seed in different types of soil, it will thrive with no issue.
\n\n\n\nWith lower maintenance requirements than Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue is a perfect choice for homeowners with shady lawns.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as Chewings, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Russbach / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWith several species and cultivars available, Zoysiagrass is one of the most cold-tolerant warm-season grasses you can grow. It is suitable for the transition zone, including Northern Virginia. This grass type may establish itself slower than other varieties, but it will form a dense carpet of grass beneath your feet. It also has thick, deep roots that help it withstand periods of dryness.
\n\n\n\nFortunately, Zoysia is among those you can overseed with perennial ryegrass for a green winter color. If your family loves playing lawn games and throwing barbecues, Zoysiagrass is a great option for you.
\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, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although, it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a warm-season grass that is more sensitive to cold than Zoysia. It spreads quite rapidly by both above- and below-ground runners. It also has excellent drought, wear, and salt tolerance. Unfortunately, this grass type has a very poor shade tolerance, meaning it cannot thrive underneath tree canopies. Bermudagrass is very difficult to control within flower beds, and is susceptible to insect and disease problems.
\n\n\n\nOverall, it is well-adapted to most soils and can be used in athletic fields, tennis courts, and high-quality lawns.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid Bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common Bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass takes the lead as the fastest growing warm-season turfgrass, allowing it to recover quickly from damage. There is a downside to this, as it can become a very invasive plant in gardens and flower beds. So unless you’re in a rush, there are better varieties such as tall fescue to choose from.
To learn more about other grass types that can thrive in different parts of the state, you can visit the Virginia Cooperative Extension website.
Invasive or non-native plants are a nuisance to any region across the United States. Northern Virginia suffers from one of these invasive species, called the Japanese stiltgrass. It has fast-growing stems that allow it to shade out other native plants or vegetation. It can invade lawns, vegetable gardens, and landscape beds.
If you would like to help clear out these invasive species from Virginia State Parks, you can visit their official website for more information.
Lemongrass is a citrusy plant that is used to flavor Asian cooking such as curries. It can also be infused into essential oils. You can grow this Asian herb in northern parts of Virginia, and they are available to purchase at local international markets.
The best grass types for Central Virginia include:
• Tall fescue
• Perennial ryegrass
• Kentucky bluegrass
• Fine fescue
• Zoysiagrass
• Bermudagrass
Some homeowners wish to limit lawn maintenance and backyard chores, while other families tend to enjoy plenty of lawn games and outdoor activities. Depending on your personal preferences and lifestyle, be sure to pick the right type of grass seed mix that will meet your needs.
\n\n\n\nThere are other ways to spruce up your backyard and create the ultimate outdoor space. Consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your Virginia lawn, including native wildflowers and xeriscaping features.
\n\n\n\nLooking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Falls Church, Arlington, Alexandria, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Alexandria, Virginia / Farragutful / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Northern Virginia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/1789c/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/107df/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/293e9/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/f2cbb/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/1789c/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/c26c2/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/1dd6e/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/67b76/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 320w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/8df11/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 500w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/98a65/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 800w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/1dd6e/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 960w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/3cc96/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Northern Virginia | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"To avoid confusion with the transition zone, explore the best grass types for Northern Virginia for a healthy, green lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"632ba0b0-32f1-53f4-8d17-129161c838a8","slug":"best-grass-types-tennessee","path":"/lawn-care/tn/best-grass-types-tennessee/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"5b679b70-01bd-54c3-aa31-693dd631b9f5","name":"Tennessee","count":11,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tn/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"Home to America’s most-visited national park, Tennessee isn’t short of scenic attractions. You can bring some of that beauty to your front yard as well, and it starts with a lush lawn. A great lawn significantly enhances the curb appeal of your home, increases its value, and provides a space for relaxation and recreation. But […]
\n","content":"\n
Home to America’s most-visited national park, Tennessee isn’t short of scenic attractions. You can bring some of that beauty to your front yard as well, and it starts with a lush lawn.
A great lawn significantly enhances the curb appeal of your home, increases its value, and provides a space for relaxation and recreation. But not all grass is built alike. The best grass for a lawn in Tennessee will thrive in a climate that has distinct seasons and significant weather fluctuations.
\n\n\n\nBelow are the best.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nGrass types are usually categorized into warm-season and cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nBecause Tennessee is in the transition zone, it accommodates both cool-season and warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nHowever, take note that Tennessee is a diverse state that consists of different regions:
\n\n\n\nDepending on where in Tennessee you live, the climate, hardiness zone, and elevation may vary and impact your grass choice. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the best warm-season and cool-season grasses for Tennessee below.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass can withstand heat and drought very well. It’s also a great option for busy lawns because it holds up well to foot traffic. Once established, it forms a light green, dense turf.
\n\n\n\nThis grass comes in various cultivars, each with different needs and characteristics. If you want to know which Bermudagrass is right for you, be sure to talk to an expert. Also, take note that the grass has an aggressive tunneling habit, so you’ll need to protect your ornamental beds with concrete or metal edging down to about two inches.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
Shade tolerance: Low; some cultivars may have slightly better shade tolerance, but in general, Bermudagrass needs full sun
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: Highly wear-resistant; if foot traffic damage does occur, Bermudagrass recovers well because of its aggressive rhizomes.
Maintenance needs: Moderate; may need mowing as often as twice per week due to its low mowing height; plan to dethatch regularly
Mowing height: 1 to 2.5 inches (rotary mower) or 0.75 to 1 inch (reel mower)
Potential for disease: Low, but common diseases include spring dead spots, large patches, and take-all root rot
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a low-maintenance grass, centipedegrass is a great option. It needs less mowing, watering, and fertilizer compared to other grass types, making it ideal for those who want a beautiful lawn without too much upkeep. Using fewer chemicals is also better for the environment and animals.
\n\n\n\nOne of the weaknesses of centipedegrass is that it can’t handle much foot traffic, so if you have a busy lawn, you should look elsewhere. This grass also grows slowly, so you may want to consider getting sod or plugs, but those will also be more expensive. Moreover, take note that not all varieties are cold-hardy.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
Spreads by: Stolons
Shade tolerance: Moderate; full sun or partial shade
Drought tolerance: Moderate to high (with the right maintenance)
Foot traffic tolerance: Very low; if damaged, ensure to water promptly
Maintenance needs: Low, and requires less mowing than other grasses because of its slow growth habit
Mowing height: 1 to 2 inches, depending on conditions
Potential for disease: Moderate; can be prevented with the right care
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a dense, light-to-medium green warm-season grass that tolerates cold relatively well and can even grow in moderate shade. It can also handle weeds, drought, foot traffic, and various soil types.
\n\n\n\nHowever, keep in mind that Zoysiagrass doesn’t repair itself easily if damaged and is slow to establish. You can choose to buy sod or plugs, although that will be more costly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
Shade tolerance: Moderate (high for a warm-season grass type)
Drought tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on the cultivar
Foot traffic tolerance: High; dense growth resists damage, and spreading through stolons and rhizomes allows for quick recovery
Maintenance needs: Low to moderate
Mowing height: Typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches depending on cultivar and shade; heights below 1 inch need a reel mower (which is recommended anyway)
Potential for disease: Low to medium, depending on the cultivar
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\nA popular choice, turf-type tall fescue is a versatile year-round green grass with coarse leaves. It resists diseases and tolerates heat, drought, and foot traffic. Often, turf-type tall fescue is mixed with Kentucky bluegrass for its strong qualities.
\n\n\n\nOf course, no grass can withstand stress 100 percent of the time. If you want your turf-type tall fescue to recover from damage easily, get variety with rhizomes.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Bunches, occasionally rhizomes
Shade tolerance: Moderate
Drought tolerance: Very high
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance needs: Best to mow weekly; requires minimal fertilization; water as needed or your lawn will go dormant
Mowing height: 3 to 4 inches
Potential for disease: Low
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nFine fescue grasses come in many varieties and are known for their fine texture and shade tolerance. They’re often mixed with other grass types for a more diverse and resilient lawn, but they can also be used as standalone grasses. Some varieties of fine fescue are suitable for infertile and acidic soils.
\n\n\n\nTake note that fine fescue doesn’t handle foot traffic well, so you might want to look at alternative options if you have a busy lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Depends on the variant (most variants grow in bunches, but creeping red fescue uses rhizomes)
Shade tolerance: High
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: Low
Maintenance needs: Mow every 2-3 weeks until growth slows in the summer; fertilize 2-4 times a year; aerate once a year
Mowing height: 2.5 to 4 inches; the grass is slow-growing, so taller heights may be preferable
Potential for disease: Moderate
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass forms a dark green turf that thrives under full sun and self-repairs if it’s damaged. This grass type is popular throughout the country for its dense, carpet-like appearance. However, it’s especially common in the Northern half of the United States where it grows best.
\n\n\n\nNote that the grass often struggles against diseases and pests. It also faces problems growing in poor soil, excessive heat, and shade. That’s why it’s often mixed with other grass types. Homeowners should keep in mind that Kentucky bluegrass also grows slowly and has shallow roots that need frequent watering.
\n\n\n\n
Classification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Rhizomes (underground stems)
Shade tolerance: Tolerates partial shade, but prefers full sun
Drought tolerance: High but long periods of drought will lead to dormancy
Foot traffic tolerance: High in colder weather, lower in warmer seasons
Maintenance needs: Provide an inch of water weekly; mow every 5-7 days; fertilize 1-3 times a year
Mowing height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches
Potential for disease: Moderate to high; susceptible to diseases such as necrotic ring spots and rusts
Centipedegrass requires less water and fertilizer than other grasses. That means less work for you but also fewer chemicals getting into the environment. Additionally, centipedegrass grows slowly, reducing the need for frequent mowing.
Turf-type tall fescue can stay green throughout the year.
If you have trees or hardscapes, consider planting centipedegrass or Zoysiagrass. They’re shade-tolerant grasses that can grow in areas with less sunlight.
Busy lawn? No problem. From warm-season Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass to cool-season turf-type tall fescue (which can be mixed with Kentucky bluegrass if you prefer), you have a number of options.
Choosing the right grass type is just the beginning of making the most of your Tennessee lawn. Proper watering, fertilization, and maintenance practices are also critical. Make sure that you take the steps to take care of your lawn properly.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a little extra vibrancy to your yard, you may be in the market for plants. Be sure to look into planting natives. Native plants naturally grow in Tennessee’s climate, meaning that they’re easier to take care of and better for the environment and local wildlife.
\n\n\n\nIf you need a hand, why not contact a Tennessee lawn care pro?
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Stephen Yeargin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"The Best Grass for Your Tennessee Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/1789c/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/107df/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/293e9/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/f2cbb/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/1789c/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/c26c2/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/1dd6e/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/67b76/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.webp 320w,\n/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/8df11/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.webp 500w,\n/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/98a65/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.webp 800w,\n/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/1dd6e/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.webp 960w,\n/static/5fd2cb86b00ce5ea6e8159f7142e930a/3cc96/Lawn-in-Tennessee-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Best Grass for Your Tennessee Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Among all the amazing views in Tennessee, the one you really want is in your front yard, but it’s going to take the right kind of grass."}}},{"node":{"id":"65ccb380-9bca-50b9-aeb7-dd9fb8a3f6fe","slug":"best-native-plants-peoria","path":"/lawn-care/il/peoria/best-native-plants-peoria/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Most comfortable with soil under her fingernails, Amanda has an enthusiasm for gardening, agriculture, and all things plant-related. With a master's degree in agriculture and more than a decade of experience gardening and tending to her lawn, she combines her plant knowledge and knack for writing to share what she knows and loves.","name":"Amanda Shiffler","id":"458fa7a4-b709-56ae-8d79-9dc400e34ff1","path":"/author/amanda-shiffler/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0048ef20c97263b5f26951aa210d62c8?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"51e1f258-c2e9-5d28-83c3-bb7bc475352c","name":"Illinois","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/il/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"7424e8c1-74fb-5607-a946-d87b0be13097","name":"Peoria","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/il/peoria/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"The big-hearted town of Peoria in the middle of Illinois has wide appeal. Sitting right on the banks of the Illinois River, Peoria has a picturesque backdrop that many cities can only dream of. When you find yourself putting down roots in a city that one national publication dubbed one of the Top 50 Best […]
\n","content":"\nThe big-hearted town of Peoria in the middle of Illinois has wide appeal. Sitting right on the banks of the Illinois River, Peoria has a picturesque backdrop that many cities can only dream of.
\n\n\n\nWhen you find yourself putting down roots in a city that one national publication dubbed one of the Top 50 Best Places to Live, you might as well embrace the area and landscape your property with native plants. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of the best native plants for Peoria and the surrounding areas.
\n\n\n\nIncluded in this article:
\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\nPurple coneflower resembles daisies, but this native beauty has a large center cone that stands well above the dry, papery petals. It is the most popular type of coneflower grown and one of the first native wildflowers to jump into mainstream horticulture.
\n\n\n\nThis beautiful plant looks stunning when planted en masse and creates a soothing rustle when the papery petals brush up against one another in the breeze. Flowers appear between mid to late summer, and when deadheaded, purple coneflowers may gift you a second round of blooms before the season ends.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green, rough texture
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full to part sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Fertile loam; tolerates clay if dry
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need more during dry periods)
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Japanese beetles, leaf spot, aster yellows disease
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Cardinal](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cardinal-Flower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: linnaeus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe sensational cardinal flower blooms for about a month in late summer, displaying brilliant red flowers that attract hummingbirds and swallowtail butterflies to your garden. Plants get their common name from the bright red robes traditionally worn by Roman Catholic cardinals.
\n\n\n\nThese plants are excellent choices for wet areas in your yard. They naturally occur in wetlands and thrive in full sun and light shade. They aren’t long-lived perennial species, but they self-seed prolifically, so you’ll always have a cluster of cardinal flowers bringing color to your yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green,
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full to part sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Loamy, rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Keep the soil consistently moist
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Snails, slugs
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nContrary to its name, milkweed isn’t considered a noxious weed anywhere in the United States. This tough wildflower is the only host plant for the endangered monarch butterfly, making it an essential aspect of native habitats.
\n\n\n\nMilkweeds were once widespread across the prairies of the Midwest, but habitat destruction has severely reduced the plant’s range and numbers. Thankfully, gardeners are increasingly adding them back into their landscapes. They are loved, of course, for bringing in the bold, beautiful monarchs but also appreciated for their fragrant, purplish-pink flowers that appear in late spring or early summer.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be mindful that milkweed sap contains alkaloids that irritate everything except the monarch butterfly.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 24 to 30 inches
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green with fine, soft hairs
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-draining
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall; may need more during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Large or small milkweed bugs, swamp milkweed beetles, blue or red milkweed beetles, milkweed aphids, and furry milkweed tussock moth caterpillar
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Cause eye and skin irritations and are poisonous to pets when ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susans are among the most easily recognized flowering perennials and a favorite of gardeners. These tough-as-nails plants also look like daisies, with their center discs in deep, rich hues and bright yellow to orangish, oblong petals.
\n\n\n\nAs members of the sunflower family, black-eyed Susans thrive in rocky, infertile soils where most other plants can’t survive. Between this, and their heat and drought tolerance, it’s no wonder you often see them blanketing roadside ditches and open fields across the country.
\n\n\n\nBe careful when planting them, though. They spread aggressively through underground stems called rhizomes and prolific self-sowing. Their spreading is excellent if you want to fill in a flowerbed, but it can be problematic when planted close to other plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Bright green with coarse hairs
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained, not too rich
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil dries out
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Aphids, slugs, snails, powdery mildew, aster yellows, Southern blight, downy mildew, rust
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3912256151_865e2a4b51_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSwitchgrass is an important native prairie grass that grows well in any soil type and under any moisture level. Their low maintenance needs have given them solid standing as landscaping plants. Growing upwards of six feet tall, they work well as background plantings in flower beds, hedges, or privacy screens.
\n\n\n\nDifferent varieties offer you a variety of foliage colors. Switchgrass plants are available with reddish-tinged, steel-blue, or metallic blue-green foliage that takes on a golden glow come autumn. Seed heads are pinkish early in the season and fade into a reddish-brown to add even more interest to fall landscapes.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Perennial bunchgrass
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 2 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green with a prominent midrib
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained, not too rich
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week the first year, then only during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Very few
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Purpletop\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Purpletop.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joanna Boisse / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurpletop is a native warm-season ornamental bunchgrass. It grows individually or in tufts and frequently in ditch banks alongside the road. Come late summer, it puts out flower spikes with reddish-purple seed heads that bring rich color to the landscape into November. It’s often called grease grass; the seed heads are covered in an oily, sticky substance.
\n\n\n\nThis native grass does well in part shade and even in moist conditions, making purpletop a fantastic choice for growing under the canopy of larger trees or as a foundation plant against your home.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Perennial bunchgrass
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green, rough
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Adapted to all types
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week the first year, then only during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Very few
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Bottlebrush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bottlebrush-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: I, SB Johnny / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBottlebrush is a cool-season grass that likes cooler temps and grows abundantly during the spring and fall. It’s one of the few native plants on this list that is shade-tolerant and prefers a wooded area over full sun. Plant it under your big oak trees, where it receives a little bit of dappled light to add tremendous interest and texture.
\n\n\n\nThe tall grass has a unique spike arrangement that sets atop bright green blades, making it easily recognizable. As its name states, the spikelets resemble a large-bristled brush used for cleaning bottles. Over time, bottlebrush grass reseeds itself to form small colonies of plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Cool-season perennial grass
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Blue-green to grey-green, mostly hairless
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Part shade to shade
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Loamy, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week the first year, then only during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Aphids, leaf spot
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Shooting](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shooting-Star.jpg\")
Photo Credit: C T Johansson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShooting star plants are a spring ephemeral—a plant that is in full glory in spring but then fades into the background—so they add glorious color to your early-season landscape. This charming native plant has pink, purple, or white flowers resembling shooting stars streaking across the night sky.
\n\n\n\nAlso known as prairie pointer, the shooting star used to grow abundantly through moist wooded areas or rocky slopes in cooler climates. Now it is frequently grown as a garden ornamental and, in 1993, received the Royal Horticulture Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 9 to 20 inches
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 9 to 12 inches
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Emerald to grayish green with a prominent midrib
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Partial shade, will tolerate full sun in cooler climates
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Rocky or sandy, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week when flowering, less during the summer
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Very few
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: none
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Smoke.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner from USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe prairie smoke plant is one of the earliest spring bloomers on the prairie, and it brings a delicate, unique look when planted in your yard. In late spring, each flowering stem bears clusters of nodding, feathery pink, maroon, or purple bell-shaped flowers in clusters of three to nine. Once fertilized, the nodding blooms transform into arrays of wispy pink, feathery blooms.
\n\n\n\nPrairie smoke forms a colorful ground cover resembling delicate puffs of smoke from your planting beds. Plants don’t like to be overcrowded by taller perennials, so give them at least 18-24 inches of space.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 6 to 18 inches
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 6 to 12 inches
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen, deeply cut margins
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Tolerant of types, as long as well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about inch of water per week when flowering, less during the summer
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Great](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Great-Blue-Lobelia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGreat blue lobelia is perfect if you’re looking for a rough, hardy perennial that brings late summer color to your yard. This easy-to-grow native perennial blooms gorgeous, light icy-blue blooms in late summer, drawing in a crowd of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nPlants thrive in moist garden spots and grow well in damp clay soils where other plants struggle. They will grow in sunny places if plenty of moisture is present. When grown in its favored spot of shaded, moist areas, great blue lobelia will gladly spread and multiply to bring you dozens of new plants each spring.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 12 to 18 inches
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green, somewhat coarse
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Sun, part shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Keep soil moist
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Snails, slugs
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic if ingested in large quantities
\n\n\n\nAll the plants mentioned above are native to Peoria and, in theory, should do well in your yard. However, it is crucial to consider some things when choosing plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nIs your yard in full sun, or are you planting in partial or full-shade spots?
\n\n\n\nAre you looking to plant in full sun, partial shade, or full shade? Or trying to find a plant that will do well in mixed conditions? You always want to match the sun exposure to the plant’s needs. A plant that needs full sun will struggle in the shade, and vice versa. Since Peoria has a varied climate and plenty of trees, this list contains a nice mix of plants that thrive in different conditions.
\n\n\n\nWhat kind of soil are you working with?
\n\n\n\nLike sun exposure, it’s also critical to consider the soil in your landscape. The soil type directly affects water retention and drainage. It wouldn’t be wise to put a plant needing well-draining soil in a planting spot with heavy clay that holds water. You must also pay special attention to the specific planting area, as your yard can have anomalies with slightly different soil textures.
\n\n\n\nWhat size space are you working with?
\n\n\n\nIt’s always a challenge when buying new plants because they tend to look so small for the space you’re working with. Remember, though, you should always consider a plant’s mature size, not how big it is, when you purchase it. Over time that plant will grow, and you don’t want to buy something that will be too large for the space after a few years.
\n\n\n\nWhen buying native plants to add to your landscape, it’s always helpful if you can buy them locally. Not only does it support local businesses, but these plants are also usually propagated from parents acclimated to your climate, so they are better equipped to survive your seasons.
\n\n\n\nDreaming of a yard filled with native plants but overwhelmed with choices or trying to figure out what’s best for your yard? Reach out to our Peoria lawn care pros! Our experts are ready and looking forward to helping you make your landscape dreams come true.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Pettingill-Morron House / Mmikhailova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
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