![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
One thing is for sure: Miami is known for its beautiful beaches. Packed with non-stop nightlife, diverse cultural arts, and luxury shopping malls, it’s no surprise this colorful city is a resident’s dream. But thanks to Miami’s tropical monsoon climate, residents enjoy their backyards and water sports year-round. Show off a thick green lawn you […]
\n","content":"\nOne thing is for sure: Miami is known for its beautiful beaches. Packed with non-stop nightlife, diverse cultural arts, and luxury shopping malls, it’s no surprise this colorful city is a resident’s dream. But thanks to Miami’s tropical monsoon climate, residents enjoy their backyards and water sports year-round. Show off a thick green lawn you are proud of with one of these five best grass types perfect for South Florida’s humid climate.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou can always count on South Florida to be humid. The tropical climate is characterized by warm temperatures, frequent rain, and thunderstorms. With average winter temperatures in the mid-70s, Miami is best suited to warm-season grass varieties. These grass types grow best when temperatures hover between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, making them ideal for the southern United States.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nMiami’s tropical climate creates ideal conditions for weeds. Bermudagrass is a hardy, fine-textured variety with deep roots that make it resistant to heavy traffic, drought, and Florida weeds like goosegrass and buttonweed. The aggressive turfgrass recovers from damage quickly, making it an ideal choice for athletic fields, golf courses, and even home lawns.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is medium to dark green with a dense appearance. It establishes quickly, thrives in the sun, adapts to most soils, and is salt-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: 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: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, army worms, sod webworms, and nematodes
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nPalmetto, to Miami it’s a giant bug and a cultivar of St. Augustinegrass. This dense, blue-green grass is the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass variety. It is easy to establish and quick-growing. Unfortunately, it does not stand up to heavy traffic and is susceptible to chinch bugs.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augstinegrass loves the warm, Florida weather and tolerates the salty air. It is coarse-textured but less dense than bermudagrass. Bitter Blue, a cultivar of St. Augustinegrass, is chinch bug resistant and popular in many areas.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, army worms, grubs, and nematodes
\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; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. This hardy grass shares all of the popular characteristics of bermudagrass but is more shade-tolerant. Cultivars of zoysiagrass are superb choices for homes, athletic fields, and golf courses, standing up to heavy traffic, low mow heights, drought, cold, and shade.
\n\n\n\nThese grass varieties have low fertilization requirements and grow densely and slowly, blocking out weeds. Zoysiagrass is one of the lowest-maintenance South Florida grasses. It is salt-tolerant, disease-resistant, and not prone to insect infestation.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and lead spot can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, army worms, chinch bugs, sod webworms, and nematodes
\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\nOther notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMost South Floridians love the feel of sand between their toes, and the resilient variety Bahiagrass agrees. This grass loves sandy soil and is drought-resistant, thanks to deep roots. It grows slowly and requires less mowing than other varieties.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass has a coarse texture and light-green color. It requires little fertilization and most Miami homeowners do not need supplemental irrigation for this variety to thrive. Unfortunately, it does not stand up to salt spray, heavy traffic, or shade.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Growth rate is moderate to high, so plan to mow often during the growing season
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; dollar spot may occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; mole crickets may cause problems
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soils, does well in sandy loam
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bahiagrass is grown in the Gulf Coast and Southeastern U.S; does best in acidic soils — not the best grass if your soils are naturally alkaline; doesn’t tolerate saltwater
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is a low-maintenance and slow-growing cultivar, requiring little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain green. The light-green grass loves the sandy, acidic soils of South Florida, but the smooth, flat blades do not handle heavy traffic, shade, cold, or herbicides well. Centipedegrass is prone to pests and disease when overwatered.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate; prone to ground pearl insects, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, lawn caterpillars, and nematodes
\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\nOther notes: Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow in temperatures as low as 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Miami’s tropical weather allows for year-round growth most years.
You should plant your grass seed between April and July. This gives the seed a full growing season before the cold winter.
Chinch bugs love the sun. They are small and difficult to spot. Watch for yellow or brown patches in your lawn and contact a lawn care professional if you see signs of activity. In South Florida, chinch bugs love many grass types, including bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, and zoysiagrass.
South Florida grass varieties thrive in warm weather, salty air, and sandy, acidic soil. Different varieties have different characteristics and needs, so choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nYour grass comes together with plants, flowers, and outdoor furniture to complete your home landscape. There are many hurricane-resistant landscaping options available for Miami, so you can spend less time worrying about your yard and more time enjoying the pristine beaches before hurricane season rolls around. For even more low-maintenance plants, check out our list of the best native plants that will thrive in the tropical climate.
\n\n\n\nA tropical oasis is within reach so long as you provide the rum runner. Contact a Miami lawn care pro today to keep your lawn and landscaping green and chinch-bug-free.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Miami","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1789c/Miami-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/107df/Miami-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/293e9/Miami-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/f2cbb/Miami-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1789c/Miami-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/c26c2/Miami-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1dd6e/Miami-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/67b76/Miami-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/8df11/Miami-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/98a65/Miami-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1dd6e/Miami-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/3cc96/Miami-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Miami | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, salt-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Miami, and these five species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"50d6ca88-a9c8-5ae0-aadb-dfd25f9ab9de","slug":"best-native-plants-miami","path":"/lawn-care/fl/miami/best-native-plants-miami/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"529a6382-d2d9-58ab-b746-9f305ef45bd4","name":"Miami","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/miami/"}],"date":"March 20th, 2023","excerpt":"Miami is a melting pot of cultures and arts and home to over 147 parks, gardens, and recreation centers. Florida contains over 4,700 species of native plants, so it is easy to create your own diverse cultural stew in your own backyard by filling it with Florida plants. Native plants offer many landscaping benefits, including: […]
\n","content":"\nMiami is a melting pot of cultures and arts and home to over 147 parks, gardens, and recreation centers. Florida contains over 4,700 species of native plants, so it is easy to create your own diverse cultural stew in your own backyard by filling it with Florida plants.
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer many landscaping benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nNative plants help promote a healthier Florida ecosystem. Check out these 20 native plants for Miami to create a diverse landscape.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/beautyberry-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Tony Alter / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBeautyberry, also known as American mulberry, is a small shrub with bright purple fruits that attract birds and other wildlife. The sprawling shrub works well as a border plant with its long branches arching toward the ground. Some homeowners prune the plant for a more compact appearance.
\n\n\n\nBeautyberry has fuzzy, light-green leaves and small lavender flowers that bloom from spring to summer before maturing to fruits in September. The edible shrub is drought tolerant and loves rich soils, though it will adapt to the acidic, sandy soils of South Florida.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers nutrient-rich soil but tolerates acidic, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; prefers a regular watering schedule and moist roots
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/black-eyed-susan-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan offers a pop of color for Miami yards. The hardy wildflower is known for its bright golden petals and dark brown center. It is salt and drought-tolerant and makes a great addition to any butterfly garden.
\n\n\n\nBlack-Eyed Susan loves full sun and well-drained soil. Flowers grow atop round clumping leaves and work well as cut flowers for an outdoor-to-indoor home display.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Biennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable, prefers acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/butterfly_weed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Derek Ramsey / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is a native species of milkweed and is extremely important to healthy Florida landscapes. It is an attractive flowering plant and a nectar source for bees and pollinators as well as a host plant for caterpillars, including the Monarch butterfly. There are around 20 native species of milkweed that call Florida home.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed produces bright orange or yellow flowers from summer to fall. The attractive plant is hardy and loves full sun. It tolerates most soils and is moderately salt and drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-4 feet tall and less than 1 foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial though some species are annuals
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers dry sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Semi drought-tolerant; prefers to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; milky sap irritates humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"photo](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/coontie-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Leonora (Ellie) Enking / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nCoontie, also known as Florida arrowroot, is a seed plant resembling a small fern and a member of the cycad family. With ancient roots dating back to the time of the dinosaurs, this evergreen plant is the only cycad native to North America and an important member of the Florida ecosystem. It is the larval food source for the rare Atala butterfly.
\n\n\n\nCoontie has shiny, feather-shaped leaves attached to a thick stem. The round plant works well as clumping groundcover. It is drought, salt, and cold-tolerant and will thrive in sunny or shady conditions.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Clumping groundcover
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; prefers to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; seeds are deadly to humans and animals if ingested, and the entire plant is poisonous
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/coral-bean-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Everglades National Park / Flickr / License
\n\n\n\nLike seagrape, coral bean, also known as Cherokee bean, thrives in the tropical Miami weather and grows as a large shrub or small ornamental tree. Butterflies and hummingbirds flock to the bright red tubular flowers. It grows well in natural landscapes with fertile soil, but keep in mind it is extremely poisonous to humans and animals. Coral bean performs best when planted as part of a mixed border, and the perennial shrub loses its leaves in the winter.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree or shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 5-15 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, fertile and sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; seeds poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/coral-honeysuckle-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jo Naylor / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nOften found climbing the woods, sandhills, and flatwoods of Florida, coral honeysuckle is an evergreen clumping vine. It blooms year-round in South Florida and does its best blooming in the winter. You can find it crawling trellises, walls, and fences, reaching heights up to 18 feet.
\n\n\n\nThe dark, shiny leaves give way to trumpet-shaped red-orange flower clusters from spring to fall, and the vine produces clusters of bright red berries from September to October. Coral honeysuckle attracts songbirds, hummingbirds, and other pollinators thanks to its vibrant flowers and fruit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-18 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen to semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need weekly watering during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/coreopsis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrey Zarkikh / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCoreopsis, or tickseed, is Florida’s state wildflower. The perennial blooms daisy-shaped, bright yellow flowers with brown centers from spring to summer. The drought-tolerant beauties reseed themselves, attracting butterflies and native pollinators. Tickseed makes a great addition to flower beds and container gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; tolerate partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"clumps](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fakahatchee_grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nFakahatchee grass is another great ornamental grass for Miami landscapes. It is a clumping plant, working well for accents and borders. It is the food of choice for the larval Byssus Skipper butterfly. In nature, you can find it growing along river banks and swamps.
\n\n\n\nFakahatchee grass is easy to grow with grass-like foliage and small white flowers in late spring. It grows best in full sun and loves well-drained, moist soil, though it adapts to drier conditions and will survive flooding. It responds well to pruning but will grow just as well as a low-maintenance plant when left alone.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-4 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen to semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; well-drained, moist acidic or alkaline soil, sand, loam, clay; extended flooding
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderately drought-tolerant; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/firebush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mokki / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nFirebush is a hardy shrub with bright red flowers that bloom from late spring to the first frost. Popular with hummingbirds, butterflies, and other local wildlife, the semi-woody shrub can reach up to 15 feet tall in South Florida but responds well to pruning for contained growth.
\n\n\n\nFirebush is a popular addition to many landscapes and works well as a standalone shrub, hedgerow, or border plant. The foliage will die after the first freeze but regrows in spring. It adapts to most soil conditions and is heat and drought-tolerant with no natural disease or insect threats.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 9-12
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-12 feet tall and 5-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need weekly watering during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; poisonous to humans and animals, though it has a bitter taste most animals avoid
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/florida-anise-tree.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe Florida anise tree, also known as purple anise, is actually an evergreen shrub with small star-shaped purple to red flowers. Skinny branches droop to the ground, giving the shrub a rounded shape. Flowers bloom in spring with fruits following from late summer to fall. Like its cousin star anise, the fruits of the Florida anise tree give off a distinct licorice odor when crushed.
\n\n\n\nThese shrubs have a dense growth pattern, making them ideal for hedgerows and windbreaks. They prefer full sun but will grow well in partial shade and respond well to pruning. They love rich soil and moisture but will adapt to most conditions. The purple anise does not tolerate Miami saltwater and its foliage is poisonous, making it resistant to insects and deer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; foliage is poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/gaillardia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nGaillardia is a perennial with dark green leaves and bright, daisy-like blooms from summer into late fall. Also known as firewheel, or blanket flower, blooms are typically red to orange, attracting butterflies and Miami pollinators. Firewheel reseeds itself and grows well in beds and containers. Fresh-cut flowers make great additions to home vases and floral arrangements. Gaillardia tolerates sun, heat, sandy soils, and salt.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 2-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 12-24 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; acidic or alkaline soil, sand, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"large](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/gumbo_limbo_tree.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Milo44 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nA South Florida native, the gumbo-limbo tree is large and semi-evergreen. Mature heights reach up to 60 feet in nature, though they are more compact in home landscaping. They love the tropical Miami climate and make great shade trees.
\n\n\n\nGumbo-limbo trees show off bright green leaves with small clusters of light green flowers and peeling copper bark. It is one of the most wind and hurricane-resistant trees in Florida landscaping.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 10b-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 25 to 50 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moist, alkaline soil, sand, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water every seven to 10 days
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/muhly-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nMuhly grass lines Florida flatwoods, uplands, and highways and makes a popular choice for home landscapes. It is an easy-to-grow ornamental clumping grass that produces fluffy pink flower stalks every fall.
\n\n\n\nMuhly grass thrives in the Miami sun and is drought-tolerant. The salt-tolerant grass is perfect for coastal areas and grows well in flower beds and along borders.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-5 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; acidic or alkaline soil, sand, loam, clay; extended flooding
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nature-plant-flower-purple-bloom-summer-543725-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Passion flower, or maypop, is a flowering vine like coral honeysuckle. It is a butterfly host plant, fast-growing, and hardy. Its dense foliage provides natural cover for wildlife while its large lavender blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The vine also produces edible green fruits, though they do not taste good.
\n\n\n\nPassion flower loves full sun and thrives on a trellis, fence, or archway. It is a spreading vine that will grow to occupy the trellis or fence. They are pest-resistant and tolerate drought conditions. However, the hardy plant is susceptible to nematode damage in South Florida.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 30 feet; spreads to occupy the trellis or fence
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water twice weekly during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; safe for humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/scarlet-sage-salvia-close-up.jpg\")
Scarlet salvia goes by many names, including scarlet sage, blood sage, and tropical sage. It is an herbaceous perennial with tubular red flowers that bloom from spring through fall. The attractive plant reaches up to 4 feet tall and attracts Miami wildlife, hummingbirds, and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nScarlet salvia is drought and salt-tolerant, tolerating the occasional salty spray well. The adaptable plant responds well to pruning and grows well in flower beds and containers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous plant
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; acidic or alkaline soil, sand, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/tree-plant-fruit-leaf-flower-food-829906-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Seagrape is an endangered and protected shrub or tree naturally found growing along the Florida coasts. The salt-tolerant plant produces clusters of edible red fruit resembling grapes, bright-green, round foliage with red veins, and clusters of cream-colored flowers.
\n\n\n\nSeagrape responds well to pruning, and left unattended, it will grow to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide. These plants work well as hedges, privacy screens, natural windbreaks, and shade trees. If grown as a tree, an attractive, twisted trunk is visible. Seagrape grows well in full or partial sun and salty acidic soils. It is very low maintenance except for the occasional pruning.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree or shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 10A-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 35-50 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need weekly watering during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible fruits
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/flower-plant-nature-flora-blossom-botany-1370586-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Miami’s tropical climate creates the perfect environment for crawling vines. Star Jasmine, also known as jessamine and evening trumpet flower, is a fragrant flowering vine with clusters of tiny white flowers that bloom in early spring and summer. It is drought resistant and attracts pollinators to your garden. The vine is also moderately salt-tolerant and adapts to shady conditions, making it a great option for coastal landscapes.
\n\n\n\nThis vine is fast-growing, climbing to occupy any available space. It works well as ground cover but requires frequent pruning. Star jasmine is best planted near lampposts, trellises, arbors, or chain-link fences, and will not climb masonry walls or wooden fences without supports.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine or spreading groundcover
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 9-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pink-hibiscus-flower-1413634545iIg.jpg\")
Swamp mallow is a variety of hibiscus with many names in South Florida such as scarlet rosemallow and swamp hibiscus. Like all hibiscus flowers, swamp mallow is an herbaceous perennial with large red flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. The woody plant loves heat, humidity, and wet soil, and is moderately salt-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nSwamp mallow grows naturally in the Florida wetlands but tolerates drier soil. It loves full sun and can reach heights up to 8 feet. The swamp mallow makes a great informal privacy screen or standalone plant, and the bright blooms will attract butterflies such as Cloudless Sulfurs and Gulf Fritillaries to your Miami yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-8 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water twice per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Viburnum_Reiflers_Dwarf_2zz.jpg\")
Walter’s viburnum is a large shrub or small tree with small white flowers that attracts butterflies. Fruits of the tree ripen in fall, attracting birds and other wildlife. It can reach up to 20 feet tall but responds well to pruning and training and makes a great hedgerow or privacy screen.
\n\n\n\nWalter’s viburnum has dense foliage that acts as a nesting spot for songbirds, and it is the host plant for the Azure butterfly. The shrubs prefer full sun to partial shade and are drought-tolerant. However, these plants do not tolerate salt and need moist, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree or shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-20 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water twice weekly
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; safe for humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Psychotria_nervosa_2.jpg\")
Wild coffee produces shiny, bright-green leaves with clusters of small white flowers in the spring and summer. Red fruits bloom in the summer resembling coffee berries but contain no caffeine. The evergreen shrub’s elongated leaves and dense growth habit make a great hedgerow or border plant for South Florida lawns.
\n\n\n\nWild coffee serves as the backbone for the life cycle of the rare Atala butterfly, providing a much-needed nectar source for the insect, while its fruits attract birds and other wildlife. The perennial shrub grows well in partial to full shade and loves well-drained soil. It responds well to pruning and is salt-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 9-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-10 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate heavy clay soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; prefers to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Moderate toxicity; poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\nNative plants each have their own needs, and not all native plants will grow well in your Miami yard. It is important to consider soil type and proximity to saltwater sprays when selecting plants for your landscape. Select plants suitable for your soil, sun exposure, and watering capabilities.
\n\n\n\nMiami sits in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 and 11, indicating the coldest annual temperature is between 30 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Florida-native plants are cold-hardy to the minimum temperature in Miami’s’ hardiness zones. Keep your zone in mind when selecting non-native plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nThanks to Miami’s year-round tropical climate, you can plant anytime you want. Plants grow faster in the spring and summer, and experts agree the best time to head into your garden is from mid-March to the beginning of April.
Foliage needs time to dry before nightfall, and wet foliage can lead to disease and rot. Early morning or evening are the best times to water your native plants. Winds are calmer and temperatures are lower, so there is less risk of water loss from evaporation or scorching from the sun.
Native plants support the Florida ecosystem and beneficial insects like butterflies, bees, and birds. Many are salt and drought-tolerant and adapted to the acidic, sandy soil found in most South Florida yards, making them easier to grow and more beneficial to the local environment.
Create your own landscape melting pot and invite beautiful blooms, butterflies, and songbirds into your yard. If you want to introduce more native plants into your Miami oasis, source your plants ethically from reputable nurseries.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these local Miami nurseries recommended by the Dade Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society:
\n\n\n\nMany native plants are salt and wind-tolerant, standing up to occasional flooding and high winds. Be sure to consider other hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas to complement your new native plants and check out the best grass types for Miami for a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nWhen you are ready to turn over lawn upkeep to a professional, let Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping pro in your area.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Pxhere
\n","title":"20 Best Native Plants for Miami","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2.0905923344947737,"src":"/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/1789c/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/107df/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/293e9/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/f2cbb/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/1789c/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/c26c2/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/1dd6e/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/67b76/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.webp 320w,\n/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/8df11/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.webp 500w,\n/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/98a65/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.webp 800w,\n/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/1dd6e/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.webp 960w,\n/static/5b2259c9b663e084affa644150d1f414/3cc96/landscape-tree-nature-outdoor-architecture-plant-864513-pxhere.com-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"20 Best Native Plants for Miami | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Check out these Florida native plants for Miami to find heat and salt-tolerant plants that thrive in the sun and sandy soil, plus information on where to buy native plants locally."}}},{"node":{"id":"d8fa5624-998d-548a-a5ed-3cd23baf013c","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-miami","path":"/lawn-care/fl/miami/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-miami/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"529a6382-d2d9-58ab-b746-9f305ef45bd4","name":"Miami","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/miami/"}],"date":"March 20th, 2023","excerpt":"Historically, Miami has the greatest chance of a hurricane impact. In this colorful city, residents recognize the power and destruction of these great storms and celebrate their strength through local sports teams like the Miami Hurricanes. While fans of “The U” celebrate on-field destruction, your South Florida lawn is another story. Here are some hurricane-resistant […]
\n","content":"\nHistorically, Miami has the greatest chance of a hurricane impact. In this colorful city, residents recognize the power and destruction of these great storms and celebrate their strength through local sports teams like the Miami Hurricanes. While fans of “The U” celebrate on-field destruction, your South Florida lawn is another story. Here are some hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas to help you prepare your landscape for hurricane season.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Miami Landscaping
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2017-08-03_11_28_02_Crape_Myrtle_with_lavender_flowers_along_Stone_Heather_Drive_in_the_Chantilly_Highlands_section_of_Oak_Hill_Fairfax_County_Vi-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSustained winds of 90 mph or more will uproot large trees, and even Category 1 hurricanes have sustained winds between 74 to 95 mph. With 41% of all U.S. hurricanes making landfall in Florida, it is important to plant wind-resistant trees to protect your home and neighborhood from flying branches and falling trees.
\n\n\n\nWind-resistant Miami tree species include:
\n\n\n\nTrees to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of wind-resistant trees:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The average cost of a hurricane-resistant tree varies depending on the size and type of tree, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local nursery to purchase your tree, you can expect to spend between $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\nLike most Miami residents, you have a storm preparedness checklist ready for hurricane season, but no matter how much you plan, you know there is no way to protect your home and yard from storm damage completely. Selecting wind-resistant trees and thoroughly planning your hurricane-resistant landscape increases your plants’ survival chances during a storm.
\n\n\n\nSome things to consider as you plan your hurricane-resistant landscape include:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: kathyclark777 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nNative South Florida plants are the most salt and wind-tolerant plants you can include in your landscaping project, and they have the added benefit of being incredibly low-maintenance. Native plants promote a healthy ecosystem and thrive in Miami’s tropical climate. These plants are hands-off and resistant to local insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Miami native plants to choose from. Take a look at some of the most salt-tolerant examples:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\nHealthy trees are sturdy trees, and one of the best ways to maintain healthy trees is to perform routine maintenance, including pruning and trimming. Be sure to keep your hedges, shrubs, and trees pruned or trimmed to cut down on the number and size of branches flying across your yard during a tropical storm.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of landscape maintenance:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional tree trimming and landscape maintenance costs between $315 to $700, depending on the size of your yard and the number of trees and shrubs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ronstik / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nMulch comes in many forms and colors. It is an inexpensive DIY job with enormous benefits for your Miami lawn. Mulch is a loose material typically made of organic matter like compost, tree bark, and wood chips that helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from heat.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch is the best option for your South Florida landscape. It adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes, but you will need to add a fresh layer annually. Inorganic mulches like gravel, river rock, and landscape glass are low-maintenance and durable, but the hard pieces ricochet off windows and siding during a hurricane.
\n\n\n\nBest mulch for your Miami landscape:
\n\n\n\nMulch to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag. If your landscaping project requires a lot of mulch, you can often purchase it in bulk to save money.
\n\n\n\nStatues, flower containers, bird baths, small fountains, and patio furniture are all great additions that add a personal touch to your South Florida oasis. Unfortunately, these objects are no match for hurricane-force winds. Be sure to remove all movable storm hazards to minimize damage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: There is no cost to move your landscaping decorations or furniture indoors. However, if you are short on space and want to maximize your storm preparedness, you can rent a storage unit for around $125 per month.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-4-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ryandeberardinisphotos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nLike trees, not all fences are created equal, especially for wind resistance. Many Miami fence contractors specialize in hurricane-resistant fencing and reinforcement. It is important to note that wood fences are not the best choice for wind-resistant fencing. However, if the sustainability and natural beauty of wood are something you cannot live without, be sure to choose a slatted fence design to minimize wind resistance.
\n\n\n\nTake a look at some of the most wind-resistant fence types:
\n\n\n\nFence types to avoid:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional fence installation costs between $1,330 to $5,550, depending on size, materials, and location.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/South-Beach-Miami-Florida.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Phillip Pessar / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe average elevation of Miami is only 16 feet above sea level, and thanks to the city’s tropical climate and sandy beaches, waterfront homes are popular in the luxury real estate market. When planning your hurricane-resistant landscape, it is important to consider your proximity to the water. Building a seawall around your property protects your home and landscape from tumultuous surf, flooding, and erosion.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular hurricane-resistant seawall materials:
\n\n\n\nMaterials to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a seawall:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, a new seawall costs $25,000 for professional installation.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-5-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: nicolamargaret / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nStorm drains are an integral part of your overall Miami landscape. Unfortunately, many homeowners often overlook these necessities because they offer little aesthetic value. Yard waste and organic debris can clog your drains, leading to increased flooding and water damage. Be sure to keep paths to your drains clear by maintaining your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of proper drainage:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional French drain installation costs between $1,650 to $12,250, depending on location, size, and excavation needs.
\n\n\n\nThe best hurricane-resistant grasses for your Miami landscape are St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass. Both types of grass tolerate saltwater spray and are great warm-season grasses, but Zoysiagrass stands up better to heavy traffic.
Yes. Most artificial grass is wind-resistant and can withstand up to 50 inches of rain per hour. Most hurricanes generate precipitation at a rate of 6 inches per hour.
Organic mulch provides moisture retention and nutrients for your plants. Experts recommend laying new mulch on top of your existing mulch annually in the spring.
Hurricane-resistant landscaping is one more thing you can check off on your storm preparedness checklist. While you focus on other areas of preparation, consider letting Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company that can handle your lawn care needs.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Jollyroger33133 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
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