{"componentChunkName":"component---src-templates-category-category-js","path":"/category/lawn-care/page/11/","result":{"pageContext":{"posts":[{"node":{"id":"89b3a45d-0e55-58cf-9e53-bc52cc2ea16c","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-st-augustine","path":"/lawn-care/fl/saint-augustine/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-st-augustine/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?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":"9b5a7cc0-52e4-5870-a456-94b94f3508cb","name":"Saint Augustine","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/saint-augustine/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>As hurricane season approaches, homeowners begin to prepare their homes for potential damage. While many focus on strengthening their home’s structure, they may overlook the importance of hurricane-resistant landscaping. A landscape that&#8217;s well-designed will not only add beauty to your home but also provide protection from wind and water damage during a hurricane. By using [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>As hurricane season approaches, homeowners begin to prepare their homes for potential damage. While many focus on strengthening their home’s structure, they may overlook the importance of hurricane-resistant landscaping. A landscape that&#8217;s well-designed will not only add beauty to your home but also provide protection from wind and water damage during a hurricane.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>By using hurricane-resistant plants, designing windbreaks, and implementing proper maintenance, your landscaping can help reduce the risk of damage to your property. Here are 12 hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for St. Augustine to help you prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we&#8217;ll cover:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Augustine\">12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for St. Augustine</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Seawall\">Install a Seawall</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Fencing\">Build Hurricane-Resistant Fencing</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Trees\">Plant Wind-Resistant Trees</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Plants\">Choose Native and Salt-Tolerant Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Lines\">Plan Tree Placements Away from Buildings and Power Lines</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Together\">Group Trees Together</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Buffer\">Install a Backyard Buffer</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Beds\">Use Organic, Soft Mulch for Your Garden Beds</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Maintenance\">Perform Regular Landscape Maintenance</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Paths\">Clear Storm Drain Paths</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Plants\">Cover Your Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Sprinklers\">Turn Off Automatic Sprinklers</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Strikes\">Protect Your St. Augustine Home Before a Hurricane Strikes</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Ideas\">FAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Augustine\">12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for St. Augustine</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can follow these suggestions to make your landscape aesthetically pleasing and capable of enduring the turbulent winds and heavy rainfall that come with the hurricane season:</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Seawall\">1. Install a Seawall</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your property is situated on the waterfront, it is imperative to construct a seawall. The purpose of seawalls is to shield your home against the unrelenting pummeling of waves and avert erosion. Plus, having a seawall can help you avoid floods during <a href=\"https://www.weather.gov/phi/stormSurge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">storm surges</a>.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>When selecting a seawall for your property, you must consider various aspects, like the material to use and the associated cost. Opt for a seawall material that can endure the forces of the Atlantic Ocean, such as the following:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Composite</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Concrete</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Riprap (loose stone)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vinyl</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don&#8217;t have a seawall, the shoreline will progressively erode. This, in turn, can inflict substantial damage to your waterfront property. Apart from helping you prevent flooding of your property during storms, seawalls can save you a considerable amount of money in terms of repairs. Hence, it&#8217;s crucial not to use materials that decay or corrode over time.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Materials to avoid:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Metal</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> The cost of building a seawall will depend on the material chosen, with costs varying between <strong>$113 to $770 per linear foot</strong>. But if you leave your property unprotected, the cost of restoring water damage can be significantly higher.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Fencing\">2. Build Hurricane-Resistant Fencing</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When preparing for a hurricane, homeowners often neglect backyard fences. Nevertheless, choosing the right type of fence appropriate for your home can have a significant impact. Remember to prioritize durability.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Benefits of hurricane-resistant fencing:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Reduces the risk of the fence being destroyed</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helps in lowering expenses for fence repair or replacement</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You might think that a solid privacy fence is most effective because it can obstruct the wind. However, the absence of air circulation can cause it to give way under the force of <a href=\"https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/hazards.php#wind\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">high winds</a>. Wooden fences, even the most robust, can be toppled over easily if there are no gaps large enough to permit the wind to flow through.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Types of fencing to avoid:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Wood</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any type of solid privacy fence</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Avoid spending a lot of money on fence replacements and repairs after a storm by investing in a fence that can resist hurricanes. Choose fences that have slats. The following are types of fencing that enable wind to move through with minimal obstruction:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Aluminum</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chain-link</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Masonry</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vinyl</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wrought-iron</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> Fence installation costs fluctuate depending on the material you choose, with the cost usually ranging from <strong>$8 to $46 per linear foot</strong>. Chain-link fences are typically priced between <strong>$12 and $33 per linear foot</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Trees\">3. Plant Wind-Resistant Trees</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"536\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/palm-trees-1.jpg\" alt=\"image of palm trees in florida\" class=\"wp-image-14969\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/palm-trees-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/palm-trees-1-300x201.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/palm-trees-1-768x515.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/palm-trees-1-480x322.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Florida_Palm_Trees_PLT-TR-PM-1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Shadowmeld Photography</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Having a hurricane-resistant landscape with wind-resistant trees can be extremely helpful when a hurricane passes through. These types of trees have robust and deep roots, a lower center of gravity, and sturdy trunks, reducing the probability of being uprooted by high-speed winds. This decreases the likelihood of your trees becoming a danger to your property or community.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each tree species has unique characteristics, and some are more susceptible to wind damage than others. Here are some of the most exceptional tree species with excellent <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR174\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">wind resistance</a>:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bald cypress <em>(Taxodium distichum)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crape myrtle <em>(Lagerstroemia indica)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sabal palmetto <em>(Sabal jamesiana)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sand live oak <em>(Quercus geminata)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Southern live oak <em>(Quercus virginiana)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Southern magnolia <em>(Magnolia grandiflora)</em></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Avoid planting certain trees in areas prone to hurricane winds, as they are more <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/trees-that-can-withstand-hurricanes.html#:~:text=some%20of%20the%20trees%20with%20the%20least%20wind%20resistance%20were%20sand%20pine%2C%20chinese%20elm%2C%20water%20oak%2C%20and%20laurel%20oak.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">susceptible to wind damage</a>. The University of Florida IFAS Extension states that the following trees should be avoided in hurricane-prone regions like St. Augustine:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Chinese elm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Laurel oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sand pipe</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water oak</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> The cost of professional tree planting services can vary significantly, ranging from <strong>$22 to $3,300</strong>. The total cost will be influenced by several factors, including the type of tree species, as well as its age and size. Typically, the expenses will be lower for small saplings than for larger, more mature trees.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Plants\">4. Choose Native and Salt-Tolerant Plants</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For homeowners who want to maintain a healthy lawn, living near the coast presents a unique challenge due to salty coastal air that can damage plants not suited for the environment. However, choosing the right plants can help. You should select native and <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/landscaping-for-specific-sites/salt-tolerant-plants.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">salt-tolerant plants</a> that can adapt to local environmental conditions and thrive in areas with high salt content in the soil and air.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeowners in St. Augustine prefer native plants because they have already evolved to survive in the specific climate and soil of the region. In addition, salt-tolerant plants can withstand high levels of salt water, making them perfect for coastal gardens.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the key benefits of choosing salt-tolerant and native plants is that they require less maintenance and watering, which can save time and money. They also lessen the need for pesticides, fertilizers, and other environmentally harmful chemicals.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The University of Florida IFAS extension recommends several <strong>popular native and salt-tolerant plants for coastal landscapes</strong>, including:</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Grasses:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Fakahatchee grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Muhly grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sea oats</li>\n\n\n\n<li>St. Augustinegrass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zoysiagrass</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Groundcovers and flowers:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Beach sunflower</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Calendula</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gaillardia</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gopher apple</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Railroad vine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seaside goldenrod</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zinnia</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Trees and shrubs:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Agaves</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coontie</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Firebush</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hibiscus</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lantana</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Live oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Magnolia</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oleander</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pineapple guava</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sabal palm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saltbush</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saw palmetto</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soapberry</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Southern red cedar</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wax myrtle</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wild coffee</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yaupon</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yucca</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Vines:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bougainvillea</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These plants not only make your coastal landscape beautiful, but they also help support local ecosystems.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> The cost of planting a tree can range from a budget-friendly <strong>$90</strong> to a more expensive <strong>$3,212</strong>. Similarly, planting a flower bed can cost anywhere from <strong>$861 to $3,100</strong>, depending on factors such as the size of the bed and the type of flowers you choose.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Lines\">5. Plan Tree Placements Away From Your House and Power Lines</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tree-Placement.jpg\" alt=\"image of trees with electric poles and wires\" class=\"wp-image-87916\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/79157069@N03/21117910171\" target=\"_blank\">Matthew Paul Argall</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Careful consideration of tree placements is crucial to prevent them from causing property damage during a storm. While trees help enhance a property&#8217;s curb appeal and provide shade, you must keep them away from structures such as buildings and <a href=\"https://www.wapa.gov/newsroom/FactSheets/Pages/trees-powerlines.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">power lines</a>.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To determine where to plant your trees, consider their size at maturity and their root systems. A tree planted too close to a home or power line may cause property damage or power outages during a storm.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keeping trees away from structures can bring many benefits. It can reduce the risk of property damage during a storm, prevent power outages caused by falling or swaying trees, and reduce maintenance costs. Planting trees too close to power lines or your home may require more frequent pruning and maintenance, which can be time-consuming and expensive.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To ensure safe and effective tree placement, follow these tips:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Before planting, always <a href=\"https://www.sunshine811.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">contact 811</a> to obtain information about utility lines in your area. Avoid planting trees directly above these lines and opt for shrubs instead.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you&#8217;re planting near power lines, choose tall grasses or shrubs instead of trees.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>If planting a large tree, keep it at least 12 feet away from utility lines.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>To prevent damage to your home&#8217;s foundation, plant trees at least 5 feet away and consider the tree&#8217;s mature width.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you have trees near your driveway, remove any low-hanging branches that could damage your car or garage door.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid planting trees close to septic systems or drain fields to prevent root damage over time.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>When planting several trees, consider their mature height and width to determine the space required between them.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> The typical cost of tree removal services ranges from <strong>$347 to $1,117 per tree</strong>. For transplanting trees, it can cost anywhere between <strong>$158 and $880</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Together\">6. Group Trees Together</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Trees can provide functional and aesthetic benefits when planted strategically. Planting trees in clusters of five or more can improve their resilience to high winds by over 10%, making them more effective in safeguarding your property during hurricane season. Additionally, grouping five trees with diverse appearances and heights can further enhance your property&#8217;s visual appeal.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you should avoid planting trees in a straight line. The University of Florida recommends a natural and unforced arrangement for planting trees – each tree must be within 10 feet of the other. This approach can create a strong and <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/planting/planting-and-establishing-trees.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sustainable windbreak</a>.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>By planting trees in groups, you can enjoy many benefits beyond just the beauty they bring to your lawn. Here are a few <strong>advantages of grouping trees</strong>:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Enhanced wind resistance: </strong>When trees are planted in clusters, they tend to grow more robust and sturdy, which helps them resist high winds and other extreme weather conditions.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Improved energy efficiency:</strong> Trees can help regulate temperature by blocking wind and providing shade. When planted in groups, they can create a microclimate that reduces cooling and heating costs for your home.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Better for wildlife: </strong>Grouping trees can create a natural habitat for wildlife, which can help support local ecosystems and biodiversity.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> Tree prices vary greatly depending on species and size, but the usual costs range from <strong>$150 to $1,850</strong>. To lower the cost per tree or sapling, you can purchase them in bulk. Plus, installing several trees will be less expensive per tree than having a single tree installed, so consider this when planning your landscape.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Buffer\">7. Install a Backyard Buffer</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Creating a backyard buffer is a great way of preventing flooding and erosion caused by hurricanes while also creating a beautiful natural environment in your backyard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>A backyard buffer or <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/SS647\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">riparian buffer</a> is made up of trees, shrubs, flowers, and mulch that work together to absorb and slow down wind and water. By preventing the full force of the storm from reaching your home, the buffer can protect your property from damage and protect waterways from overheating.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once established, your backyard buffer can provide many benefits, including:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Offers shade</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provides privacy</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helps reduce noise pollution</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces risk of property damage from tropical storms and flood</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports wildlife by serving as natural habitat</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects waterways from overheating</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lessens the chance of erosion</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Boosts property value</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To create a backyard buffer, choose native plants that can withstand heavy rains and high winds, such as Southern live oak and bald cypress. They also have strong roots that help keep the soil in place and prevent erosion. Additionally, you can use low-maintenance shrubs like firebush and wax myrtle to create a buffer zone around your home.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>When installing your backyard buffer, remember to consult with garden centers, local nurseries, or environmental organizations for <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP424\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">expert advice</a> on creating a buffer suited for St. Augustine.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> There are many options for selecting plants, and prices will vary depending on the type of plant. For example, small native perennials are generally less expensive and can cost anywhere from <strong>$4 to $25 each</strong>. On the other hand, planting a tree can cost much higher, ranging from <strong>$22 to $3,300</strong>, depending on the tree species, size, and age.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Beds\">8. Use Organic, Soft Mulch for Your Garden Beds</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/tree-grass-light-plant-field-lawn-1359857-pxhere.com-2.jpg\" alt=\"Brown mulch ready to be installed in lawn\" class=\"wp-image-87312\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1359857\" target=\"_blank\">Pxhere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hurricane season can wreak havoc on your garden beds, so you should prepare them accordingly. <a href=\"https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/lakeco/2022/03/29/mulch-options-for-the-home-landscape/\">Mulch</a> is an essential part of maintaining a healthy garden, but remember to select the right kind to prevent damage during high winds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Organic, soft mulches are highly recommended for areas like St. Augustine that experience high winds. During a storm, hard and heavy mulches can become dangerous projectiles, causing damage to your property and neighboring homes.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Examples of organic, soft mulch:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Chipped or shredded wood</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fallen leaves</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Newspaper</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pine needles or bark</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shredded pieces of bark</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike hard mulches, such as pebbles, pea gravel, stones, and river rock, organic mulches remain in place better. Plus, they offer numerous benefits to plants, like providing insulation to plant roots, suppressing weed growth, and retaining moisture in the soil.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>When selecting the type of <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/planting/mulch.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">soft mulch</a>, avoid using any materials that may harbor disease or pests. Freshly cut grass clippings should be avoided since they can generate heat and attract harmful organisms. Also, avoid using straw or hay as they may contain weed seeds that will proliferate in your garden beds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> On average, aged wood chips are priced at approximately <strong>$70 per cubic yard</strong>, while shredded bark mulch costs around <strong>$65 per cubic yard</strong>. Alternatively, you can get fresh wood chips for free from a certified arborist or a local tree recycling center. Or you can make your own mulch by composting leaves, providing a nutrient-rich material for your garden beds.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Maintenance\">9. Perform Regular Landscape Maintenance</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To protect your yard from the effects of extreme weather, you should prioritize regular maintenance. This applies not just to your garden and lawn but also to your trees.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inspect Your Trees</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Inspecting your existing trees regularly is an important part of maintaining a healthy and resilient landscape, particularly in the months leading up to hurricane season. Damaged or diseased trees can pose a significant threat to your property and safety during extreme weather events.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>During inspections, look for signs of damage or disease, such as yellowing leaves, dead branches, and cracks in the trunk. If you leave dying or weakened trees untouched, even mild winds can cause them to fall. So if you want to avoid more problems later on, you should address these issues immediately.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To ensure you identify all hazardous trees on your property, consider hiring a <a href=\"https://www.arborday.org/trees/bulletins/coordinators/resources/pdfs/006.pdf\">certified arborist</a> to inspect them. These professionals can identify hazardous trees in your yard, and you can work together to develop an effective plan for safely removing them.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Prune and Trim Trees</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>To avoid property damage caused by falling branches during a storm, it&#8217;s important to take preventive measures in your landscape. Strong winds can easily snap branches, creating a potential hazard for your property. A seemingly harmless long branch hanging over your roof could cause significant damage if it&#8217;s not removed in time.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To prevent such scenarios, be sure to <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/pruning/pruning-and-maintaining-trees.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prune and trim</a> any weak or overgrown branches on your existing trees. Regular maintenance will ensure your plants are healthy and strong, and won&#8217;t succumb to high winds during a storm. If you don&#8217;t want a broken branch to smash through a window, damage your car or cause injury, you should keep your trees in good shape.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maintain Your Yard</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Keeping your property safe during high winds requires more than just tree maintenance. You also should keep your lawn and garden well-maintained by regularly mowing, weeding, and removing debris. This will prevent any hazards from flying around during storms. Regularly <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/LH014\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">fertilizing your lawn</a> and garden can help ensure that your plants remain strong and healthy, and able to withstand extreme weather conditions.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> Bush trimming can range from <strong>$45 to $75 per hour</strong> or <strong>$7 to $24 per bush</strong>, depending on the type of bush and the amount of work needed. Hedge trimming can cost between <strong>$56 and $85 per hour</strong>, while tree trimming costs can range from <strong>$227 to $708</strong>, depending on the size and complexity of the job.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Paths\">10. Clear Storm Drain Paths</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\n<figure class=\"\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/rsz_6447392233_f7b09919fa_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"storm drain with leaves and tree debris on the grate\" class=\"wp-image-4439\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/42787780@N04/6447392233\" target=\"_blank\">Fried Dough</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/\" target=\"_blank\">Public Domain</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>To prevent potential damage caused by rain, you should take precautions to ensure the proper flow of stormwater. This includes:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Cleaning your gutters</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clearing your storm drain</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspecting your downspouts</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Removing any debris from your lawn</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Removing any landscaping features that may block water flow</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Standing water or puddling can be a risk to your property and weaken roots, making trees more susceptible to damage during storms. A <a href=\"https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/woody/drainage.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">French drain</a> is an effective solution to prevent water from pooling in your yard. This involves installing a drainpipe that redirects water away from your home and ensures proper drainage.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> Be prepared to spend anywhere from <strong>$154 to $1,059</strong> to have your yard cleaned up. If you&#8217;ll be having a French drain installed, it can cost from <strong>$500</strong> for a small, simple project to <strong>$18,000</strong> for a larger or more complex installation.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Plants\">11. Cover Your Plants</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to clearing debris, trimming trees, and installing drainage systems, another way of preparing your yard for an impending storm is to provide extra protection for your plants. This can be achieved by wrapping trees and large plants with burlap, which will help to reduce the impact of strong winds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>For smaller plants, using a <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/CV106\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">floating row cover</a> and securing it to the ground with garden stakes is a good option. Although these covers may not withstand severe hurricanes, they can still provide protection and lessen the amount of damage.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> Burlap comes in different sizes and prices, ranging from <strong>$7 to $180 per roll</strong>. On the other hand, floating row covers have a cost of <strong>$11 to $240 per cover</strong>, depending on their size and type.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Sprinklers\">12. Turn Off Automatic Sprinklers</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To ensure your lawn and plants recover quickly after a hurricane, you should be mindful of the amount of water they receive. While automatic sprinklers can be convenient during the year, they can cause further damage during a storm. Excessive water can saturate your lawn, and the plants may struggle to recover from it.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should turn off your water supply entirely to prevent damage from burst pipes during a storm. Once the hurricane has passed, assess the damage and adjust the <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/LH025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">watering schedule</a> accordingly to give your plants the time they need to recover.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> You don&#8217;t have to spend a dime. In fact, it can help lower your monthly water bill.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Strikes\">Protect Your St. Augustine Home Before a Hurricane Strikes</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even though St. Augustine is not as susceptible to hurricane damage as <a href=\"https://www.cbsnews.com/media/top-10-cities-at-risk-from-hurricane-damage/\">other cities</a>, you must take the necessary precautions and be prepared before hurricane season arrives. Keeping yourself updated with weather forecasts and following storm warnings can help you minimize potential damage to your home and ensure your family&#8217;s safety.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do the following to prepare for a hurricane:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Check your home&#8217;s exterior and identify any areas that are vulnerable to high winds or flooding.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prepare an emergency kit that contains essential items like flashlights, first aid kits, canned goods, and drinking water.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clean your downspouts and gutters to prevent water damage.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspect your roof, siding, windows, and doors for any signs of damage or weakness.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Address any areas of concern and reinforce your roof or install impact-resistant windows and doors if needed.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prepare your yard by securing loose items such as patio furniture, potted plants, and outdoor decor to prevent them from becoming projectiles during high winds.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspect your roof for loose shingles or metal sheets that could fall on your home or power lines.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Ideas\">FAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the best hurricane-resistant grasses?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If you&#8217;re looking for hurricane-resistant grass options, Zoysiagrass and St. Augustinegrass are the best grass types for you.<br/><br/>Zoysiagrass is a warm-season turfgrass that is highly resistant to strong winds and requires minimal maintenance. Additionally, it&#8217;s an excellent choice for homes located along the First Coast due to its salt tolerance.<br/><br/>On the other hand, the warm-season St. Augustinegrass is native to coastal areas. It&#8217;s known for its resilience in humid and hot weather conditions, heavy foot traffic, and rough weather conditions. It&#8217;s also salt-tolerant and can be an excellent option for homeowners looking for hurricane-resistant grasses.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What time of year do hurricanes usually hit the Southern U.S.?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean offer a conducive environment for hurricanes to develop and strengthen, especially during the peak of the hurricane season, which falls between mid-August and late October. But hurricane season usually begins June 1 and lasts until Nov. 30.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How often do hurricanes hit St. Augustine?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Like Jacksonville, St. Augustine is highly susceptible to hurricanes because of its location along the East Coast. While hurricanes can strike this area at any time, the frequency of these storms varies from year to year.<br/> <br/>According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), St. Augustine has been affected by tropical storms or hurricanes <strong>approximately every two to three years</strong> over the past century. Note, though, that this is not a fixed pattern, and some years may see more or fewer storms. You must always remain vigilant and prepared for the potential impact of these powerful storms.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Protect Your Home With Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As St. Augustine homeowners know all too well, hurricanes are an ever-present threat during the storm season. However, taking proactive steps to prepare for hurricanes can go a long way.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>One key aspect of hurricane preparedness is creating hurricane-resistant landscaping. By selecting the right plants, installing barriers and drainage systems, and securing loose items in your yard, you can help minimize damage to your home and ensure your family&#8217;s safety.<br>Don&#8217;t wait until the next storm is on the horizon to take action. Reach out to a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/saint-augustine/\">St. Augustine landscaping professional</a> today and create a beautiful and resilient landscape that can withstand even the toughest storms.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https://www.wallpaperflare.com/hurricane-matthew-damage-dock-pier-outdoors-debris-weather-wallpaper-apjxk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wallpaperflare</a></p>\n","title":"12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for St. Augustine, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/1789c/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/107df/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 320w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/293e9/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 500w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/f2cbb/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 800w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/1789c/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 960w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/c26c2/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/1dd6e/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/67b76/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 320w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/8df11/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 500w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/98a65/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 800w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/1dd6e/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 960w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/3cc96/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for St. Augustine, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Create a beautiful landscape design that can withstand storms with these 12 hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for St. Augustine."}}},{"node":{"id":"4cf3dd0d-ad89-5c9e-9ef0-8eba653e337a","slug":"best-native-plants-new-mexico","path":"/new-mexico/best-native-plants-new-mexico/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Gorski lives with her family in Texas. She has a degree in Professional Studies and a minor in marketing. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, and writing.","name":"Danielle Gorski","id":"7c21f4d6-aa31-5681-9530-3d69932d07c4","path":"/author/danielle-gorski/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d4dbd5997a7fe91daa87a0bd0839baff?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"92ccbe43-9307-58ce-abaa-8889525cf679","name":"New Mexico","count":1,"path":"/category/new-mexico/"},{"id":"a5a0b892-6574-5ca0-bb3e-544a1453bec5","name":"New Mexico","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nm/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>The best plants for New Mexico thrive in the local climate. Native plants can endure Southwestern droughts and temperatures that frequently soar to 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Planting native plants in your New Mexico landscape design provides many benefits, including: New Mexico’s desert-like environment may seem pretty dry and brown, but the Land [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>The best plants for New Mexico thrive in the local climate. Native plants can endure Southwestern droughts and temperatures that frequently soar to 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Planting native plants in your New Mexico landscape design provides many benefits, including:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>They are adapted to the local climate and soil.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They are resistant to local pests and diseases.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They increase biodiversity by attracting pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They require fewer pesticides and fertilizers.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They are low-maintenance.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>New Mexico’s desert-like environment may seem pretty dry and brown, but the Land of Enchantment is actually home to an abundance of colorful native plants. Here are 11 of the best native plants for your New Mexico landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#best\">11 Best Native Plants for New Mexico</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#artichoke\">Artichoke Agave</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#desert\">Desert Marigold</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#willow\">Desert Willow</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#hummingbird\">Hummingbird Mint</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#indian\">Indian Blanketflower</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#new\">New Mexico Beardtongue</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#purple\">Purple Poppy Mallow</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#soaptree\">Soaptree Yucca</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#whorled\">Whorled Milkweed</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#woods\">Woods’ Rose</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#yarrow\">Yarrow</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#how\">How to Choose the Best Native Plants for Your New Mexico Landscape</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About the Best Native Plants for New Mexico</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#where\">Where to Find Native Plants in New Mexico</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"best\">11 Best Native Plants for New Mexico</h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"artichoke\">1. Artichoke Agave (<em>Agave parryi v. truncata</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agave_parryi_v._truncata_7230471896.jpg\" alt=\"an Artichoke Agave plant inside a pot\" class=\"wp-image-15609\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agave_parryi_v._truncata_7230471896.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agave_parryi_v._truncata_7230471896-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agave_parryi_v._truncata_7230471896-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agave_parryi_v._truncata_7230471896-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agave_parryi_v._truncata_7230471896-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Agave_parryi_v._truncata_%287230471896%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Akos Kakai</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Artichoke agaves are shaped like squat rosettes with fleshy, blue-gray leaves edged with rust-colored spikes that are prickly to the touch. Also known as Parry’s agave, artichoke agave blooms in the summer, attracting pollinators like birds, hummingbirds, and butterflies.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of its life, <a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/agave-parryi-var-truncata-artichoke-agave\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">artichoke agave</a> grows a tree-like stalk that towers 15 to 20 feet in the air, a rare event that only happens once every 10 years. Clusters of red buds grow at the top of the stem and transform into golden flowers.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The plant is native to Southwest states, including New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas. In the wild, artichoke agaves can be found nestled at the edges of pine or oak forests or making their home in open, rocky deserts. This drought-tolerant succulent grows best in rock or container gardens, making it a great choice for low-maintenance landscapes or drought-resistant yards.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Cactus<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>8-12<br><strong>Mature size:</strong> 1-3 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Evergreen<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry, rocky or sandy soil<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; does not require water outside of natural rainfall<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; prickly leaves</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"desert\">2. Desert Marigold (<em>Baileya multiradiata</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"721\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Baileya_multiradiata_flower_1.jpg\" alt=\"a beautiful flower with yellow petals\" class=\"wp-image-15611\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Baileya_multiradiata_flower_1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Baileya_multiradiata_flower_1-300x270.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Baileya_multiradiata_flower_1-768x692.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Baileya_multiradiata_flower_1-480x433.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Baileya_multiradiata_flower_1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stan Shebs</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Desert marigold thrives in hot, flat, sandy regions. It has a rounded shape and sparse gray-green vegetation. Clusters of spindly stems topped with a single, bright yellow flower grow outward from a central mound. The long blooming season begins in March and lasts until November.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The bright flowers attract butterflies and bees. <a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/baileya-multiradiata\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Desert marigold</a> spreads through seed, and one plant produces as many as 50 flowers.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Herbaceous flower<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 7-10<br><strong>Mature size: </strong>1-2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Adaptable; well-drained, clay, loam, or sand<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; does not require water outside of natural rainfall<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic; poisonous if ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"willow\">3. Desert Willow (<em>Chilopsis linearis</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"653\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chilopsis_linearis_flower_2.jpg\" alt=\"pinkish flowers on green stems\" class=\"wp-image-15613\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chilopsis_linearis_flower_2.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chilopsis_linearis_flower_2-300x245.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chilopsis_linearis_flower_2-768x627.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chilopsis_linearis_flower_2-480x392.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chilopsis_linearis_flower_2.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stan Shebs</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its name, the desert willow isn’t related to the willow tree. <a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/chilopsis-linearis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Desert willows</a> are extremely heat and drought-tolerant and grow well in desert terrain. In the spring and summer, their narrow, bright green leaves are graced with white, lavender, or pink flowers growing at the tips of their branches.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Desert willow’s delicate flowers attract hummingbirds and pollinating insects and wildlife eat its seeds. The flowering shrub provides a place for birds to nest, and their gnarly limbs and colorful flowers are easily identifiable. Desert willows need at least six hours of full sun. Grow this vibrant native as an ornamental patio specimen.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Shrub<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 7-11<br><strong>Mature size: </strong>15-30 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide<br><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Adaptable; prefers well-drained limestone soil; tolerates sand, loam, clay, caliche, granitic, or rocky soils<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; does not require water outside of natural rainfall<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hummingbird\">4. Hummingbird Mint (<em>Agastache</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"535\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AgastacheTFHVN.jpg\" alt=\"beautiful pink flowers of Agastache\" class=\"wp-image-15615\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AgastacheTFHVN.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AgastacheTFHVN-300x201.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AgastacheTFHVN-768x514.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AgastacheTFHVN-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AgastacheTFHVN-480x321.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:AgastacheTFHVN.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PlantExpert</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hummingbird-loving homeowners can add <a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/agastache-summer-sunset\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hummingbird mint</a> to their landscape, attracting the fast fliers and pollinating insects with its sweet nectar and vibrant blooms. During the summer, tubular flowers grow in vertical spikes in a collection of fragrant floral clusters.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hummingbird mint offers a variety of blooms, including pink, red, orange, yellow, blue, purple, and white. Its stems are thin and erect but full of leafy foliage. Hummingbird mint is naturally pest-resistant making it a great addition to beds, borders, containers, and rock gardens.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Herbaceous flower<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 4-10<br><strong>Mature size: </strong>2-3 feet tall and wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Adaptable; moist, well-drained, chalk, clay, loam, or sand<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; water one inch per week during dry periods<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"indian\">5. Indian Blanketflower (<em>Gaillardia pulchella</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"659\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Blanket-Gaillardia-pulchella.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15616\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Blanket-Gaillardia-pulchella.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Blanket-Gaillardia-pulchella-300x247.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Blanket-Gaillardia-pulchella-768x633.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Blanket-Gaillardia-pulchella-480x395.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Firewheel_or_Indian_Blanket_--_Gaillardia_pulchella.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Jim Evans</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many believe the Indian blanketflower gets its name from brightly colored blankets woven by Native Americans. Blanketflowers have fiery, yellow-tipped petals that are arranged in a circle around their yellow or burgundy cone center. Blooms grow two to three inches wide atop erect stems.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The vivid red hues make <a href=\"https://lowwaterplants.nmsu.edu/plants/gaillardia.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Indian blanketflowers</a> an attention-grabbing flora. The attractive wildflower draws both people and butterflies to its vibrant petals. Birds snack on the seeds and hummingbirds can’t get enough of the flower’s sweet nectar. In the wild, this sun-loving perennial makes its home in prairies and meadows. Plant this colorful specimen in beds, borders, containers, and butterfly or rock gardens.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Wildflower<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 3-8<br><strong>Mature size: </strong>1-2 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Evergreen<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun; partial shade<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry, well-drained, loam, chalk, or sand<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; water once per week during dry spells<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"new\">6. New Mexico Beardtongue (<em>Penstemon neomexicanus</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its strange name, New Mexico beardtongue blossoms into clusters of graceful, bell-shaped flowers on top of tall stems. From May through July, its tubular flowers bloom into drooping clusters of lavender, pink, or white. The perennial invites pollinators and hummingbirds, and <a href=\"https://nmrareplants.unm.edu/node/137\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico beardtongue</a> is the larval food source for the rare, endemic Sacramento Mountains checkerspot butterfly.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The plant is leafy at its base with elongated, oval-shaped leaves that end in sharp points. Its foliage is blue-green with a waxy texture. In the wild, this low-maintenance plant grows in meadows, prairies, or woodlands. Plant this vibrant perennial in flower beds and along borders to create a pollinator garden.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Herbaceous Flower<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 5-9<br><strong>Mature size:</strong> 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun, partial sun<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Well-drained, sand, chalk, or loam<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; water once per week during dry spells<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"purple\">7. Purple Poppy Mallow (<em>Callirhoe involucrata</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow.jpg\" alt=\"purple colored flower in a plant\" class=\"wp-image-13099\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.publicdomainpictures.net/en/view-image.php?image=252152&amp;picture=purple-poppy-mallow-wildflower\" target=\"_blank\">PublicDomainPictures</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple poppy mallows grow naturally in prairies and meadows. Blooms are identifiable by their poppy shape and vibrant magenta color. The five petals of <a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/callirhoe-involucrata-purple-poppy-mallow\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">purple poppy mallow</a> form a cup-like shape that has earned the wildflower its nickname, “winecup.” Its flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hoverflies as well as some unwelcome guests like predatory wasps.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It blooms from May to June and propagates by self-seeding. The hardy wildflower has a hairy stem and taproot system which makes it difficult to transplant once mature. The leaves and roots of purple poppy mallow are edible and have medicinal properties. This drought-tolerant wildflower makes a great addition to rock gardens, flower beds, and borders.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Herbaceous flower<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 4-8<br><strong>Mature size: </strong>6-12 inches tall and 2-3 feet wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Semi-evergreen<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun; partial shade<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry, well-drained, rocky or sandy, clay, clay-loam, medium loam, or sand-loam soils<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; water once per week during dry spells<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; edible</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"soaptree\">8. Soaptree Yucca (<em>Yucca elata</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18437471969_b27d732b61_o-1.jpg\" alt=\"a soaptree yucca in a desert\" class=\"wp-image-15617\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18437471969_b27d732b61_o-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18437471969_b27d732b61_o-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18437471969_b27d732b61_o-1-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18437471969_b27d732b61_o-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18437471969_b27d732b61_o-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/bpprice/18437471969\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brando</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yucca is New Mexico’s state flower. Soaptree yucca specimens are sun-loving succulents. They are ball-shaped with long, spiked leaves that jut outwards like spears. In May and June, flower stalks rise out of the spiked leaves and bell-shaped, white flowers grow in oblong clusters.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/yucca-elata\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Soaptree yucca’s</a> roots are often made into soap and shampoo. These succulents make excellent additions to xeriscapes and promote biodiversity, attracting hummingbirds and sheltering small wildlife.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Cactus<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 6-11<br><strong>Mature size:</strong> 5-20 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Evergreen<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Well-drained loam or sand<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; do not require water outside of natural rainfall<br><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Toxic; sharp spines; poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"whorled\">9. Whorled Milkweed (<em>Asclepias verticillata</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/3197722916_f5a924af59_o-1.jpg\" alt=\"white flowers of whorled milkweed\" class=\"wp-image-15618\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/3197722916_f5a924af59_o-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/3197722916_f5a924af59_o-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/3197722916_f5a924af59_o-1-768x511.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/3197722916_f5a924af59_o-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/3197722916_f5a924af59_o-1-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/gmayfield10/3197722916\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Frank Mayfield</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whorled milkweed is a haven for butterflies and the larval host for the Monarch butterfly. This single-stemmed wildflower uses a taproot system. In the wild, it can be found growing in fields, prairies, meadows, and along roadsides.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its light green foliage consists of thin, needlelike leaves protruding from the length of its tall stems. Flowers grow in clusters from spring to fall and have a pleasant fragrance. <a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/asclepias-verticillata\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Whorled milkweed</a> is self-seeding and makes a great addition to garden beds and borders.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Herb<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 3-9<br><strong>Mature size:</strong> 1-3 feet tall and wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun; partial shade<br><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Well-drained clay, loam, or sand<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; water one inch per week during dry periods<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic; poisonous to humans and animals<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"woods\">10. Woods’ Rose (<em>Rosa woodsii</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"561\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woods-Rose.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of woods rose\" class=\"wp-image-14827\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woods-Rose.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woods-Rose-300x210.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woods-Rose-768x539.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woods-Rose-480x337.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jsjgeology/20806237991\" target=\"_blank\">James St. John</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are strolling through pine forests or near streams, you might see Woods’ roses blooming in late spring and summer. The five-petaled flowers bloom in shades of pink, lilac, or lavender with bright yellow centers. They produce a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/rosa-woodsii\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Woods’ rose’s</a> deep green leaves are pinnately compound with serrated edges. They produce a fruit called a rose hip, which is round, cherry red, and has a glossy texture. High in Vitamin C, rose hips have medical properties and are a popular snack for birds and mammals. Plant these flowering shrubs in garden beds and along borders.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Shrub<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 3-8<br><strong>Mature size: </strong>3-6 feet tall and wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun; partial shade; full shade<br><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Well-drained. Loam, clay, or sand<br><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant; water one inch per week<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; edible except for the hairs surrounding seeds</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"yarrow\">11. Yarrow (<em>Achillea millefolium</em>)</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\" alt=\"White Color small flower with blur background\" class=\"wp-image-15378\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Common_Yarrow_%28Achillea_millefolium%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Jitaeri</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yarrow, also known as common yarrow or white yarrow, is an adaptable plant found throughout the United States, including the Southwestern wilderness. This medicinal herb grows naturally in mountains, deserts, pine forests, meadows, and along stream banks.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/achillea-millefolium-white-yarrow\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Yarrow</a> is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial that is great for xeriscaping. It makes an excellent groundcover and addition to rock gardens. It attracts butterflies while also being pest-resistant, repelling pesky insects like ants, beetles, and flies.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yarrow blooms from April to October, flowering in flat-topped clusters of white and pink flowers that grow atop tall stalks. It has feathery, fern-like leaves and fills the air with a fragrant aroma.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Herb.<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3-9<br><strong>Mature size: </strong>2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide<br><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous sometimes evergreen<br><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun; partial shade.<br><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Salt-tolerant; well-drained clay, sand, or loam sandy<br><strong>Water needs:</strong> Drought-tolerant; does not require water outside of natural rainfall<br><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic; poisonous to cats, dogs, and horses&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how\">How to Choose the Best Native Plants for Your New Mexico Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Geographic location plays a big role in determining how well plants will perform in your landscape. Each plant requires the right soil and sunlight to grow. Before you select native plants for your yard, consider:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The amount of sunlight in your yard</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soil type</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watering capabilities</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Local climate&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Before installing native plants in your landscape, determine your yard’s <a href=\"https://www.plantmaps.com/interactive-new-mexico-usda-plant-zone-hardiness-map.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA hardiness zone</a>. New Mexico’s hardiness zones range between 4b to 8b.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>North New Mexico:</strong> 5a-7a</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Central New Mexico:</strong> 5b-7b</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>South New Mexico: </strong>7b-8b</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Thanks to its hardiness zones, New Mexico’s coldest annual temperatures range between -25 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, and all native plants are hardy to the Land of Enchantment’s lowest temperatures.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>When planting your landscape, spacing is another important factor to consider. Don’t plant a large tree where it doesn’t have enough room to grow. Make sure you are accommodating for the mature size of any native plants you add to your landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About the Best Native Plants for New Mexico</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What native New Mexico plants are poisonous?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: initial;\">If you have small children or pets running around your yard, avoid adding poisonous plants to your landscape. </span>   <p>Poisonous natives include:</p><ul><li>Bracken Fern   Burroweed   Desert Marigold   Indian Hemp   New Mexico Lupine</li> </ul>   </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What New Mexico plants are best for attracting pollinators?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> <p>Butterfly gardens are a great way to promote biodiversity and a healthier ecosystem by supplying butterflies, bees, and other <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/gardening-tips/how-to-attract-birds-butterflies-bees-garden/\">pollinators</a> with a source of food or a place to rest. Here are some pollinator-attracting wildflowers that thrive in New Mexico:</p>   <ul> <li>Common Sunflower  New Mexico Beardtongue  Purple Prairie Clover   Yarrow</li> </ul> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the best groundcovers for New Mexico?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> <p>Groundcovers can be used in place of grass for a low-maintenance landscape. Native groundcovers include:</p> <ul><li>Agave   Big Sagebrush  Blue Grama   Desert Willow</li> </ul> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"where\">Where to Find Native Plants in New Mexico</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a stroll through your neighborhood and you are bound to find native plants. Always source your landscape plants ethically and never remove plants from the wild.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shrubs, trees, and wildflowers aren’t the only native plants you can add to your landscape. Check out New Mexico’s best grass types to add some green to your yard and be sure to check out our guide to dealing with the worst weeds in New Mexico so you are ready to protect your new native landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for a New Mexico <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">lawn care pro</a> near you? Wikilawn has trusted professionals in <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/nm/albuquerque/\">Albuquerque</a> and many more cities across the Land of Enchantment.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: Indian Blanket Flower / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Indian_Blanket_flower_%2814153989023%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Chad Sparkes</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for New Mexico","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2.2388059701492535,"src":"/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/1789c/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/107df/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/293e9/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/f2cbb/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/1789c/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/c26c2/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/1dd6e/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/67b76/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.webp 320w,\n/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/8df11/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.webp 500w,\n/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/98a65/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.webp 800w,\n/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/1dd6e/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.webp 960w,\n/static/68d2a733a368ae614293458d9c6af3cc/3cc96/Indian_Blanket_flower_14153989023-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for New Mexico | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Native plants have adapted to survive New Mexico’s high temperatures and dusty environment, making them a great addition to your landscape."}}},{"node":{"id":"b7f7d575-7a1a-5785-949d-c1a0c9cab9d3","slug":"worst-new-mexico-weeds","path":"/lawn-care/nm/worst-new-mexico-weeds/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Gorski lives with her family in Texas. She has a degree in Professional Studies and a minor in marketing. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, and writing.","name":"Danielle Gorski","id":"7c21f4d6-aa31-5681-9530-3d69932d07c4","path":"/author/danielle-gorski/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d4dbd5997a7fe91daa87a0bd0839baff?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"a5a0b892-6574-5ca0-bb3e-544a1453bec5","name":"New Mexico","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nm/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>It may not seem like much can grow in the heat of the desert, but even New Mexico’s intense droughts and arid climate can’t stop weeds from popping up on your lawn. It’s hard enough for your turfgrass to survive the state’s scorching heat without weeds stealing essential nutrients and crowding it out. You don’t [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>It may not seem like much can grow in the heat of the desert, but even New Mexico’s intense droughts and arid climate can’t stop weeds from popping up on your lawn. It’s hard enough for your turfgrass to survive the state’s scorching heat without weeds stealing essential nutrients and crowding it out.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don’t want to be stuck out in the heat trying to eliminate weeds using ineffective methods. Discover seven of the worst New Mexico weeds and how you can effectively get rid of them.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Lawn\">Why Are Weeds Bad for Your New Mexico Lawn?</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Weeds\">7 Worst New Mexico Weeds</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Camelthorn\">Camelthorn (<em>Alhagi maurorum</em>)</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Spurge\">Leafy Spurge (<em>Euphorbia esula</em>)</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Pigweed\">Pigweed (<em>Amaranthus spp.</em>)</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Vine\">Puncture Vine (<em>Tribulus terrestris</em>)</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Purslane\">Purslane (<em>Portulaca oleracea</em>)</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Thistle\">Russian Thistle (<em>Salsola tragus</em>)</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Nightshade\">Silverleaf Nightshade (<em>Solanum elaeagnifolium</em>)</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Pesticide\">Getting Rid of Weeds By Hand vs. Pesticide</a></strong>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Removal\">Hand Removal</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Treatments\">Pesticides and Chemical Treatments</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Weeds\">FAQ About the Worst New Mexico Weeds</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Are Weeds Bad for Your New Mexico Lawn?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It can be a big problem when invasive weeds sneak into your yard uninvited. And the sooner you detect and identify the <a href=\"https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/sfd/forest-health/invasive-noxious-plants/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">invasive plants</a> in your lawn, the easier it is to remove them.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some of the reasons <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/the-definitive-guide-to-identifying-common-lawn-weeds/\">weeds</a> are bad for your New Mexico lawn:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Weeds steal sunlight, water, and essential nutrients from your grass.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They spread pests and diseases.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>When left untreated, the weed infestation will be harder to remove.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Weeds tend to invade sickly or patchy turfgrass. So the appearance of weeds in your lawn is usually a sign of your lawn’s poor health, indicating underlying issues like overwatering.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They disrupt the uniform look of your grass lawn.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As such, it is recommended to weed your yard once every 1-2 weeks.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7 Worst New Mexico Weeds</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Camelthorn (<em>Alhagi maurorum</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"575\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Camelthorn.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15813\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Camelthorn.jpeg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Camelthorn-300x216.jpeg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Camelthorn-768x552.jpeg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Camelthorn-480x345.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Alhagi_maurorum_-_Camelthorn.JPG\" target=\"_blank\">Zeynel Cebeci</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native to arid regions of Eurasia and North Africa, camelthorn grows in a tangle of multiple stems around 2 to 4 feet tall. The tips of its stems are lanced with spiny yellow thorns. From June to August, <a href=\"https://www.nps.gov/articles/spotlight_camelthorn.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">camelthorn</a> blossoms with pea-like flowers that are brown, maroon, or pink. It produces reddish-brown fruit that grows in seed pods.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the worst weeds in Arizona and New Mexico, camelthorn can be difficult to remove once it has been established due to its extensive root system. In fact, the state’s Department of Agriculture included it in their <a href=\"https://nmdeptag.nmsu.edu/apr/noxious-weeds.html\">noxious weed list</a>. This invasive shrub spreads through seeds or pieces of root left in the ground.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Perennial shrub<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 6-10<strong><br></strong><strong>Habitat: </strong>This aggressive invader can thrive in dry, sandy, or gravelly habitats like steppes, roadsides, irrigation ditches, and disturbed areas.<br><strong>Danger: </strong>Its sharp thorns can injure people and animals. Plus, camelthorn growing in <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/weeds/getting-rid-of-grass-in-driveway-cracks/\">pavement cracks</a> can puncture car tires.<br><strong>Removal method: </strong>Hand removal, herbicides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Leafy Spurge (<em>Euphorbia esula</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/5143745979_064087c0ca_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"A close up of a beautiful green colored leafy spurge\" class=\"wp-image-91434\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/plant_diversity/5143745979\" target=\"_blank\">Matt Lavin</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another invasive species native to Eurasia, <a href=\"https://weeds.nmsu.edu/factsheet.php?weed_id=41\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">leafy spurge</a> grows 2 to 4 feet tall in the Southwest. Its tall, smooth stem is surrounded by narrow, spiny leaves that have a bluish-green hue. A cluster of greenish-yellow flowers grows at the top of the stem.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>With its extensive root system, leafy spurge thrives in full or partial sun. When the seed pods dry out, they explode and can shoot seeds up to 20 feet away from the parent plant.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Perennial weed<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 3-9<strong><br></strong><strong>Habitat: </strong>Leafy spurge isn’t picky; it tolerates many soil types, though it prefers dry soil. Leafy spurge grows in disturbed areas, pastures, prairies, savannas, grasslands, prairies, fields, and roadsides.<br><strong>Danger: </strong>This weed produces a milky sap that can blister or irritate the eyes and skin. It also displaces resident plants and reduces biodiversity.<br><strong>Removal method: </strong>Hand removal for small infestations and herbicides for larger ones. Tilling the earth repeatedly until the spurge infestation is gone is also an effective way to get rid of this weed.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Pigweed (<em>Amaranthus spp.</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pigweed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15815\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pigweed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pigweed-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pigweed-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pigweed-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pigweed-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Amaranthus_Spp.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Earl Benton</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pigweed has a tall, stout stem populated with large oval-shaped leaves that end in a crisp point – giving the leaves a near-diamond shape. Its erect stem is covered in fine hairs. Every part of the plant is green, even its flowers, which blossom in vertical clusters during summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also called amaranth, <a href=\"https://eorganic.org/node/5120\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pigweed</a> sets down a deep taproot. This aggressive broadleaf weed can grow to be quite a large plant, sometimes reaching up to 7 feet tall. A heat-loving plant, pigweed can withstand New Mexico’s high temperatures.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>All parts of this annual weed are edible and high in nutrition. In some areas, pigweed is cultivated for its culinary properties rather than treated as a weed. There are multiple species of pigweed, including redroot pigweed and prostrate pigweed.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Broadleaf annual weed<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 6-12<strong><br></strong><strong>Habitat: </strong>Prefers growing in disturbed soil. It can be found in cultivated fields, along roadsides, streams, rivers, and agricultural cropland.<br><strong>Danger: </strong>None – this weed is edible<br><strong>Removal method: </strong>Hand removal, pre-emergent and post-emergent broadleaf herbicides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Puncture Vine (<em>Tribulus terrestris</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"564\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Puncture-Vine-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15817\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Puncture-Vine-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Puncture-Vine-1-300x212.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Puncture-Vine-1-768x541.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Puncture-Vine-1-480x338.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Puncture_Vine_%28Tribulus_terrestris%29_flowers_in_Hyderabad,_AP_W_IMG_7933.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">J. M. Garg</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>As sharp as it sounds, puncture vine produces spiky seed pods – the source of its infamously painful thorns. Also called goathead, <a href=\"https://plantclinic.nmsu.edu/documents/puncturevine-w-13.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">this summer annual</a> grows miniature dark green leaves that are fern-like in appearance. Its thick, hairy stems can be green, red, or brown. It blooms with yellow flowers that have five petals.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native to the Mediterranean region, this fast-growing weed has a taproot that helps it survive in arid climates, but it grows the fastest in places where water is available. With its germination occurring in spring and summer, this low-growing plant creeps horizontally along the earth and can spread out up to 3 feet.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Annual broadleaf weed<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 4-10<strong><br></strong><strong>Habitat: </strong>It grows in varying conditions but prefers hot, dry climates with full sun. Its natural habitat includes orchards, pastures, fields, ditches, and roadsides.<br><strong>Danger: </strong>Puncture vine is toxic to livestock if ingested. Stepping on its sharp spikes is very painful and can injure people or animals. They can puncture bike tires and are near impossible to pull out of flip-flops.<br><strong>Removal method: </strong>Hand removal, herbicides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Purslane (<em>Portulaca oleracea</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"702\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purslane.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15818\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purslane.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purslane-300x263.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purslane-768x674.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purslane-480x421.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/pondapple/6292408931\" target=\"_blank\">Bob Peterson</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY </a><a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2</a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes regarded as a weed and sometimes as a delectable food, purslane is an often unwanted invader in New Mexico lawns. However, not all homeowners resent the plant since it has nutritional benefits and medicinal uses.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its rounded spoon-shaped leaves cluster around a fleshy, reddish-brown stem. In the summer, <a href=\"https://navajorange.nmsu.edu/detail.php?id=120\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">purslane</a> blooms with small yellow flowers. This low-growing plant reproduces through seed and grows horizontally, creeping along the ground like a ground cover. Also, it doesn’t need much water to grow.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since purslane can grow from fragments of roots or leaves left in the ground, be sure to remove all parts of the plant if you don’t want it to invade your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Annual succulent plant<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 5-10<strong><br>Habitat: </strong>Purslane grows in all 50 states and thrives in disturbed soil. It naturally thrives in orchards, crop fields, or roadsides but can pop up in gardens, flowerbeds, container gardens,&nbsp; or cultivated soils.<br><strong>Danger: </strong>While <a href=\"https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/extensions-greatest-hits/2003-07-26-purslane-weed-it-or-eat-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">purslane</a> is nutritious and safe for people to eat, it is toxic for pets who consume the weed.<br><strong>Removal method: </strong>Hand removal, herbicides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Russian Thistle (<em>Salsola tragus</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Russian-Thistle.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15819\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Russian-Thistle.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Russian-Thistle-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Russian-Thistle-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Russian-Thistle-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Russian-Thistle-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/miheco/271769162\" target=\"_blank\">miheco</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the term “tumbleweed” is often used colloquially to describe any dried plant that tumbles in this manner, it is most commonly associated with the Russian thistle. This prickly, bushy weed dries up in the fall and becomes a wandering ball of stems that tumbles along in the wind, spreading seeds for miles as it goes.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>A desert-friendly plant, <a href=\"https://plantclinic.nmsu.edu/documents/russian-thistle-w-14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Russian thistle</a> doesn’t need much water to germinate, and its deep taproots allow it to soak up nutrients from the ground. Growing in a dense tangle of rigid stems, the yellow-green weed grows up to 3 feet tall. With narrow, thin leaves that grow in slender, vertical clusters, it blooms with pink, lavender, or white flowers.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Annual broadleaf weed<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 7-8<strong><br></strong><strong>Habitat: </strong>Russian thistle grows in semi-desert areas and thrives in disturbed soils and agricultural areas. It prefers loose, sandy soils and can be found in roadsides, stream banks, waste places, pastures, fields, and croplands.<br><strong>Danger: </strong>Tumbleweeds can cause problems – dry Russian thistles can be a fire hazard. In dense infestations, they can limit access to grazing lands for livestock and wildlife.<br><strong>Removal method: </strong>Hand removal is best for young plants and seedlings. Herbicides are most effective when applied at the seedling stage. Large infestations are extremely difficult to remove. Preventative chemicals and maintaining a healthy lawn are the surest ways to prevent Russian thistle weeds from ever sprouting up in your yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Silverleaf Nightshade (<em>Solanum elaeagnifolium</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Silverleaf-Nightshade.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15820\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Silverleaf-Nightshade.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Silverleaf-Nightshade-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Silverleaf-Nightshade-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Silverleaf-Nightshade-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Silverleaf-Nightshade-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Solanum_elaeagnifolium.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">pschemp</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don’t let the floral beauty of silverleaf nightshade fool you. All parts of the weed, including its leaves and fruit, are toxic. Native to New Mexico, this <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=soel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">perennial weed</a> has silvery green leaves and yellow or red thorns protruding from its stem – ready to prick any threat that endangers it.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Silverleaf nightshade has deep roots and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It produces purple and white star-shaped flowers with a prominent yellow stamen. Its flowers bloom from May through October and produce fruits that look like mini yellow tomatoes. Its long, thin leaves branch out to 2 to 4 inches long.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Perennial weed<br><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>7-11<strong><br></strong><strong>Habitat: </strong>A sun-loving plant, silverleaf nightshade grows in arid climates. Often found thriving in agricultural areas and disturbed soils, its natural habitat includes prairies, open woods, croplands, roadsides, marshes, and stream banks.<br><strong>Danger: </strong>Toxic to humans and animals. In extreme cases, it can be lethal if ingested.<br><strong>Removal method: </strong>Hand removal or herbicides – it will grow back after being clipped or mowed, so be sure to remove the entire plant. Weekly mowing before the seed-growing season prevents the seed from spreading.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting Rid of Weeds By Hand vs. Pesticide</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To eliminate weeds from your lawn, you can use chemical pesticides or pull them up by hand. The best weed removal method depends on the type of weed and the size of the infestation.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hand Removal</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Removing weeds by hand is the simplest and safest way to remove weeds from your yard. Since it reduces the need for chemicals, it is also the most eco-friendly way to get rid of weeds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hand pulling can be slow and time-consuming, especially if there are a lot of weeds. But for smaller weed infestations, pulling up a few by hand should be a piece of cake.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some tips for hand pulling weeds:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Tools such as a garden trowel, screwdriver, or hoe help pull up weeds. For removing weeds with taproots, a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/home-and-garden/how-to-kill-off-dandelions/\">dandelion</a> fork or screwdriver works best.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Since weeding can be tedious, it may be tempting to procrastinate. But the longer a weed has to establish in your yard, the more difficult it is to remove.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pull up the entire weed, including tubers, bulbs, and roots. Leaving parts of the weed on the ground can make it grow back.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Herbicides and Chemical Treatments</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For severe or widespread weed infestations, use chemical weed control treatments instead of manual hand weeding methods.</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pre-emergent herbicides </strong>kill seeds before they have a chance to germinate.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Post-emergent herbicides </strong>can kill visible weeds that have already grown.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iron-based herbicides </strong>are used only for broadleaf weeds.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can either hire a pro to apply <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/ten-pet-safe-weed-killers/\">pesticides</a> or treat your lawn yourself. For DIY jobs, read the herbicide instructions carefully and follow them so you don’t unintentionally end up damaging your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQs About the Worst New Mexico Weeds</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What New Mexico weeds are toxic?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Some of the weeds found in New Mexico gardens aren’t safe for children or pets. If the invasive weeds in your yard are poisonous, remove them ASAP. Apart from silverleaf nightshade, here are other poisonous weeds to look out for:<br/><br/>● <a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/whiteriver/learning/?cid=fsm9_019086\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Death camas</a> (<em>Zigadenus spp.</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/azpmcpg13935.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Desert marigold</a> (<em>Baileya multiradiata</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2022-09/Jimsonweed.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jimsonweed</a> (<em>Datura stramonium</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/landmanagement/resourcemanagement/?cid=fsbdev3_018824\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Oleander</a> (<em>Nerium oleander</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://www.ars.usda.gov/pacific-west-area/logan-ut/poisonous-plant-research/docs/poison-hemlock-conium-maculatum/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Poison hemlock</a> (<em>Conium maculatum</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/WEEDS/redroot_pigweed.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Redroot pigweed</a> (<em>Amaranthus retroflexus</em>)<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is a noxious weed?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Noxious weeds are invasive plants that can harm native plants and wildlife and threaten to destroy the local ecosystem. New Mexico State University (NMSU) has a <a href=\"https://pubs.nmsu.edu/_circulars/CR698/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">noxious weed list</a> available for reference. Apart from camelthorn and leafy spurge, the other noxious weeds in the list include:<br/><br/>● <a href=\"https://agri.nv.gov/Plant/Noxious_Weeds/WeedList/African_mustard_(Brassica_tournefortii)/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">African mustard</a> (<em>Brassica tournefortii</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/landmanagement/resourcemanagement/?cid=fsbdev3_018803\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bull thistle</a> (<em>Cirsium vulgare</em>)<br/>● Canada thistle (<em>Cirsium arvens</em>e)<br/>● <a href=\"https://weeds.nmsu.edu/pdfs/dalmatian_toadflax_factsheet_11-06-05.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dalmatian toadflax</a> (<em>Linaria dalmatica</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/learning/nature-science/?cid=fsbdev3_018810\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dyer’s woad</a> (<em>Isatis tinctoria</em>)<br/>● Hoary cress (<em>Lepidium draba</em>)<br/>● Myrtle spurge (<em>Euphorbia myrsinites</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/shoshone/learning/nature-science/?cid=fsbdev3_018825\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Musk thistle</a> (<em>Carduus nutans</em>)<br/>● <a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5410125.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Russian knapweed</a> (<em>Rhaponticum repens</em>)<br/>● Spotted knapweed (<em>Centaurea stoebe</em>)<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can vinegar get rid of weeds?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You can use vinegar for killing weeds, but it isn’t very effective since it only targets the top part of the weed, not the roots. It works as an eco-friendly solution for small patches of weeds, but it’s not effective against larger infestations.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are selective and non-selective herbicides?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">When you’re buying herbicides to treat your lawn, determine whether the <a href=\"http://publications.tamu.edu/TURF_LANDSCAPE/PUB_turf_Herbicides%20for%20Weed%20Control%20in%20Turfgrass.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">herbicide</a> is selective or non-selective. Selective herbicides are usually best for homeowners, while non-selective herbicides are used by weed control professionals.<br/><br/><strong>Selective herbicides </strong>target a specific type of weed or family of weeds.<br/><strong>Non-selective herbicides</strong> are broader in application use, as they target many kinds of weeds, not just one specific type. The trouble with non-selective herbicides is that they are so effective – if not applied carefully, they also might kill the turfgrass or other nearby lawn plants too.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When is the best time to spray pre-emergent herbicides?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">To prevent summer weeds from growing, you should apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring – specifically in <strong>March or April</strong>. Spray pre-emergent herbicides in <strong>September or October</strong> to prevent winter weeds from growing. Always read the herbicide’s label instructions before you start spraying.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Professional Weed Control for Your New Mexico Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pulling weeds in temperatures that regularly reach 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time. That’s why you should keep your New Mexico lawn well-maintained and healthy in order to discourage weed growth.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you’re looking for ways to reduce the amount of time and effort you have to put in your lawn, check out ideas for a low-maintenance landscape or help conserve natural resources with a drought-resistant landscape. Installing some native plants in your yard is another way to help improve your yard’s health and keep the weeds at bay.<br>Looking for a New Mexico <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">lawn care pro</a> near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/nm/albuquerque/\">Albuquerque</a> and many more cities across the Land of Enchantment.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tribulus_terrestris_0619.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Vengolis</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n","title":"7 Worst New Mexico Weeds","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4962593516209477,"src":"/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/1789c/Puncture-Vine.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/107df/Puncture-Vine.jpg 320w,\n/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/293e9/Puncture-Vine.jpg 500w,\n/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/f2cbb/Puncture-Vine.jpg 800w,\n/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/1789c/Puncture-Vine.jpg 960w,\n/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/c26c2/Puncture-Vine.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/1dd6e/Puncture-Vine.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/67b76/Puncture-Vine.webp 320w,\n/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/8df11/Puncture-Vine.webp 500w,\n/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/98a65/Puncture-Vine.webp 800w,\n/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/1dd6e/Puncture-Vine.webp 960w,\n/static/f5316e1002e2574769c18096cfe6274f/3cc96/Puncture-Vine.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Worst New Mexico Weeds | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tired of weeds overrunning your yard? Learn about seven of the worst New Mexico weeds and how to get rid of them."}}},{"node":{"id":"e585f1a9-b617-5ab8-b623-2bd495721823","slug":"drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-new-mexico","path":"/lawn-care/nm/drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-new-mexico/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Gorski lives with her family in Texas. She has a degree in Professional Studies and a minor in marketing. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, and writing.","name":"Danielle Gorski","id":"7c21f4d6-aa31-5681-9530-3d69932d07c4","path":"/author/danielle-gorski/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d4dbd5997a7fe91daa87a0bd0839baff?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"a5a0b892-6574-5ca0-bb3e-544a1453bec5","name":"New Mexico","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nm/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>The only thing not enchanting about the Land of Enchantment is the relentless heat. New Mexico’s arid climate makes it difficult for certain plants to thrive in your yard. If you’re tired of your water-guzzling yard still left wilted in the summertime, try these drought-resistant landscaping ideas to keep your yard in good shape even [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>The only thing not enchanting about the Land of Enchantment is the relentless heat. New Mexico’s arid climate makes it difficult for certain plants to thrive in your yard. If you’re tired of your water-guzzling yard still left wilted in the summertime, try these drought-resistant landscaping ideas to keep your yard in good shape even during dry weather.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#drought\">What is a Drought-Resistant Landscape?</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#droughtr\">11 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for New Mexico</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#experiment\">Experiment with Xeriscaping</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#consider\">Consider Xeric Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#go\">Go Native with Native Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#spruce\">Spruce Things Up with Artificial Turf</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#install\">Install a Rock Garden</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#make\">Make a Splash with Drip Irrigation</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#layer\">Layer On the Mulch</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#downsize\">Downsize Your Lawn with Hardscapes</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#gom\">Go Mobile with Container Gardens</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#use\">Use a Rain Barrel</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#hydrozone\">Hydrozone Your Plants</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Drought-Resistant Landscaping for New Mexico</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"drought\">What is a Drought-Resistant Landscape?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A drought-resistant landscape is a type of low-maintenance landscape design designed to retain moisture for as long as possible. Plants survive on the minimum amount of water so the landscape can withstand even long dry spells.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the Southwest, desert-like conditions put a heavy toll on plants. New Mexico is known for droughts and its hot summer temperatures that soar to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. With an abundance of sunshine and low humidity, New Mexico has dry weather that not just any plant can withstand.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only do drought-resistant plants and landscapes save you time, work, and money, they are eco-friendly and beneficial to the environment, as they help conserve valuable water resources.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"droughtr\">11 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for New Mexico</h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"experiment\">1. Experiment with Xeriscaping</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape.jpg\" alt=\"Native and drought tolerant landscaping. Gravel, river rock, concrete pavers, and native plants\" class=\"wp-image-14844\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jeremylevinedesign/2888120894\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jeremy Levine</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its unusual name, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/landscaping/benefits-xeriscaping-your-lawn/\">xeriscaping</a> is a trendy new method for landscaping your property in a way that minimizes water usage as much as possible. There are many ways to xeriscape:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Add hardscapes such as walkways, patios, or retaining walls to your landscape.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plant desert plants such as succulents, agaves, or cacti.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>In place of a traditional garden, try a rock garden to add a unique flare to your yard.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Treat your plant beds to a layer of mulch or organic matter, as this helps your <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/how-to-test-and-improve-your-soil/\">soil</a> retain moisture.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Replace your lawn grass with a drought-tolerant type of grass.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve irrigation by choosing drip irrigation instead of spray sprinklers.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Don’t worry about xeriscaping making your lawn look boring and bland. No one ever said that a yard can’t be both beautiful and practical. Combining a mixture of colorful drought-tolerant plants, vibrant mulches, and striking rock beds can make the colors of your xeriscape pop.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only does xeriscaping hold up in the blistering New Mexico heat, but it is also low maintenance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of xeriscaping:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Conserves water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves you money on water bills</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low maintenance</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can improve curb appeal</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"consider\">2. Consider Xeric Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"519\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Sedum_lineare_variegatum.jpg\" alt=\"Yellow colored carpet sedum plant\" class=\"wp-image-12898\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Sedum_lineare_variegatum.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Sedum_lineare_variegatum-300x195.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Sedum_lineare_variegatum-768x498.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Sedum_lineare_variegatum-480x311.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sedum_lineare_variegatum.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Ghislain118</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some plants are water guzzlers, whereas other plants can go for extended periods without rain or water. Plants that thrive in environments with low moisture and full sun are known as xeric plants.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luckily, there are many types of drought-tolerant plants to choose from:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Groundcovers</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ornamental grasses</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shrubs</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Succulents</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trees</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Turfgrasses</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wildflowers</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some specific drought-tolerant plants to help you get started:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://lowwaterplants.nmsu.edu/plants/gaillardia.html\">Blanket flower</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bougainvillea</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lantana</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lavender</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sedum</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Verbena</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if a drought-tolerant plant withers during a drought, the roots will remain so the plant can grow back next year.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don’t forget to also think about installing <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/drought-tolerant-plants/growing-drought-tolerant-grasses/\">drought-tolerant grass</a> in your yard. Lawn grasses consume a lot of water during the hot season, so it’s a good idea to find a turfgrass that will last in the summer heat.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some types of drought-tolerant grasses that perform well in New Mexico:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/lawn-care-the-definitive-guide-to-bermuda-grass/\">Bermudagrass</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/plantanswers/turf/publications/buffalo.html\">Buffalograss</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/everything-you-need-to-know-about-zoysia-grass/\">Zoysiagrass</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of drought-tolerant plants:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Conserve water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Survive droughts</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low maintenance</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"go\">3. Go Native with Native Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"799\" height=\"601\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\" alt=\"White color Yarrow Flower\" class=\"wp-image-15704\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg 799w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-300x226.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-768x578.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-480x361.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/anemoneprojectors/9642720961\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Peter O&#8217;Connor</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>For as dry and hot as New Mexico’s climate is, it will take hardy plants to survive in the desert-like state. Since they grow in the wild without outside help, native plants are drought-tolerant and capable of growing in your yard without much maintenance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plant some flowering plants to add a splash of color to your yard and attract pollinators, such as hummingbirds and butterflies, at the same time. Choosing deciduous plants will ensure your plants last longer than annuals, and evergreens are a good choice if you want to keep your yard filled with green foliage year-round.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you start adding native plants to your yard, you should determine your soil’s <a href=\"https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/\">USDA hardiness zone</a>:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>North New Mexico:</strong> 5a &#8211; 7a</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Central New Mexico:</strong> 5b &#8211; 7b</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>South New Mexico: </strong>7b &#8211; 8b</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you know the hardiness zone for your area, you can research plants that will grow well in the local soil and climate.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some native plants to choose from include:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Beardtongue</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cherry sage salvia</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Desert willow</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Purple poppy mallow</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rose</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yarrow</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yucca</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of growing native plants:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Resistant to local diseases and insects</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attract local pollinators</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Encourage biodiversity by providing food and shelter to local wildlife</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Require less water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adapted to local soil</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"spruce\">4. Spruce Things Up With Artificial Turf</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tired of all the work and stress it takes to maintain your lawn every day, and you just want a break? An alternative is to switch to an artificial grass yard instead. Using <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-artificial-grass/\">artificial turf</a> means having a lawn you don’t have to mow and maintain and stays green year-round.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Artificial turf is designed to mimic grass. It looks so realistic that your neighbors won’t be able to notice a difference between your artificial lawn and live grass. Artificial turf comes in different types and textures, so you can customize your lawn by picking the grass that best matches your home.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of artificial turf:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Conserves valuable water resources</li>\n\n\n\n<li>No mowing, fertilizing, or watering</li>\n\n\n\n<li>No need for pesticides</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conserves water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evergreen lawn</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves money and time on lawn maintenance</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pet-friendly</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lasts 15-20 years</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"install\">5. Install a Rock Garden</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/rock-garden-wall.jpg\" alt=\"A close up of a beautiful rock garden\" class=\"wp-image-15588\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/rock-garden-wall.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/rock-garden-wall-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/rock-garden-wall-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/rock-garden-wall-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.publicdomainpictures.net/en/view-image.php?image=165046&amp;picture=rock-garden-wall\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PublicDomainPictures</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you hear the word garden, most likely you envision images of crisp green leaves, the scent of freshly turned earth, aromatic wildflowers, and colorful butterflies.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>But there is another type of garden: a rock garden. While a garden made of rocks may sound drab and bland, it can be quite beautiful and colorful. And if you want more interest and variety, you can add drought-resistant plants like cacti, sedums, and <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/garden-landscape/landscape-designs-with-succulent-plants/\">succulents</a> to your rock garden.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>After they are installed, rock gardens require virtually no maintenance. They are weed-resistant and save homeowners the trouble of lawn maintenance. You can enjoy the picturesque beauty of a rock garden without putting in all the effort a traditional garden requires.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of rock gardens:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Low maintenance – no watering, mowing, fertilizing, weeding, or trimming</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rock gardens are eco-friendly since they don’t need pesticides</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conserves water</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"make\">6. Make a Splash with Drip Irrigation</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It may surprise homeowners to learn that <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/how-to-install-a-lawn-sprinkler-system/\">sprinkler systems</a> and garden hoses waste a lot of water. Sometimes water spray lands where it’s not supposed to or evaporates before the plants even have a chance to absorb the water.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Forgo using traditional sprinklers and use drip irrigation instead. Drip irrigation waters your plants slowly over time by delivering moisture right to the roots of the plant, drip by drip.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If a drip irrigation system isn’t in your budget right now, you can purchase a soaker hose attachment instead. Position the soaker hose around a tree so it can slowly provide water to the plant’s root system.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of drip irrigation:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Reduces water loss</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Efficient deep watering method</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low water use compared to traditional sprinkler systems</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"layer\">7. Layer On the Mulch</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"633\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12289\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1-300x237.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1-768x608.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1-480x380.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MAD4xco0awI/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ronstik</a> / Canva Pro / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Adding mulch to your landscape is one of the easiest ways to improve your yard while also increasing its drought resistance. Simply purchase a bag of the desired mulch and spread a layer of it over your plant bed.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mulch traps moisture in the soil and shades plant roots, preventing the soil from drying out. It also prevents weed growth.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of mulch:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Promotes healthier soil and plant growth</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helps the soil retain moisture</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supplies soil with nutrients</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects plants and roots from the sun’s heat</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Organic mulches break down as they age and feed nutrients back to the soil. Made from organic materials, they are a good choice since they provide nutrients to the soil:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/benefits-composting-lawn/\">Compost</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grass clippings</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pine needles</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rubber</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shredded bark</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shredded leaves</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Straw</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood chips</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The downside of organic mulches is that since they break down over time, they have to be replaced frequently.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don’t want to replace your mulch often, consider using an inorganic mulch instead. Here are some examples of commonly used inorganic mulches:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Gravel or crushed stone</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rubber mulch</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Landscape fabric</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plastic mulch</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Landscape rocks</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you should avoid using rocks for mulch. While they look nice, rocks dry the soil out and don’t retain water as well as organic mulches do.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"downsize\">8. Downsize Your Lawn With Hardscapes</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"509\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hardscape.jpg\" alt=\"Chairs around fire place around the garden\" class=\"wp-image-14055\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hardscape.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hardscape-300x191.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hardscape-768x489.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hardscape-480x305.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/rochesterconcreteproducts/16972035609\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rochester Concrete</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overwhelmed by the massive amount of lawn care that your grass requires? Try downsizing the green space in your yard by adding hardscapes to your property. Not only will they increase your home value and improve curb appeal, but they also require little maintenance aside from the occasional cleaning. And most hardscapes even serve recreational purposes.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/landscaping/hardscaping-guide/\">hardscapes</a> you might consider adding to your yard:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Decorative rocks</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rock gardens</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stone pavers</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Garden walkways</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pergolas</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patios</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decks</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fire pits or fireplaces</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Retaining wall</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of Hardscapes:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Less mowing, watering, fertilizing, and applying pesticides</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conserves valuable water resources</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improves curb appeal</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increases home value</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"gom\">9. Go Mobile With Container Gardens</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Another way to cut back on excessive water usage is to trade your traditional flower bed for a container garden. Keeping your plants in containers and pots makes them easier to water and take care of.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of container gardens:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Easy to take care of</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Potted plants can easily be moved indoors during extreme weather</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Good for people with limited mobility</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When selecting containers for your potted garden, keep in mind that bigger pots store more moisture. And since these containers are mobile, you can carry them indoors during extreme temperatures. Storing them inside during the worst parts of a drought can prevent them from getting scorched by the sun.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"use\">10. Use a Rain Barrel</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/8571254617_0fdeb0acc3_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15842\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/8571254617_0fdeb0acc3_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/8571254617_0fdeb0acc3_c-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/8571254617_0fdeb0acc3_c-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/8571254617_0fdeb0acc3_c-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/8571254617_0fdeb0acc3_c-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/29638108@N06/8571254617\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jennifer C.</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rain barrels help reduce water waste by repurposing rainfall. Install a <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/soakuptherain/soak-rain-rain-barrels\">rain barrel</a> as a part of your gutter system so you can harvest rainwater and save it for when you need to water your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of rain barrels:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Conserves water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves money on water bills</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces stormwater runoff</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For every 1 square foot of your roof, 1 inch of rainfall fills your rain barrel with an average of 0.6 gallons of water. And if you don’t want the rain barrel to be an eyesore in your yard, you can do the following to hide or disguise it:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Surround it with tall, decorative plants or trellis covered in climbing vines.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a decorative garden screen or lattice panel to enclose the rain barrel.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build a wooden enclosure or box around the rain barrel using materials that match your garden aesthetics.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use decorative covers or wraps designed to conceal rain barrels. These covers often mimic the appearance of natural materials like rocks, terracotta, or wood.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorporate it into an existing garden feature, such as a fountain, planter, or sculpture.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply paint or decorative designs to the exterior of the rain barrel to match your garden theme. You can use stencils, mosaic tiles, or even commissioned artwork to turn the rain barrel into an artistic piece that complements your landscape.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hydrozone\">11. Hydrozone Your Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hydrozoning is the art of arranging your landscape plants in a way that they’re grouped together depending on their water requirements. This way, plants with the same water needs can be easily watered, helping save time and reducing water loss.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of hydrozoning:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Water-efficient</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low maintenance</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves money on water bills</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Drought-Resistant Landscaping for New Mexico</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How often and how much should I water my lawn during a drought?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Conserving water becomes even more crucial during a drought. Generally, you should water your lawn less often but deeply to encourage roots to grow deeper. You can choose any of these options:<br/><br/><strong>•</strong> <strong>Let your lawn go dormant.</strong> A dormant lawn requires 0.5 inches of water every two weeks. It’s enough to help your grass survive the drought but will not keep it green.<br/>• <strong>Keep your lawn green.</strong> If you choose to keep your lawn green throughout the drought, it will take a lot of water. Most turfgrasses need 1 inch of water every week.<br/>Additionally, you can consider using drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing water loss through evaporation.</p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What time should I water my lawn?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Water in the early morning before 10 a.m., preferably between 4 and 6 a.m. Never water in the afternoon or during the hottest times of the day.<br/>If watering in the morning isn’t an option, water your lawn in the evening between 6 and 8 p.m. Don’t wait until it’s too late at night. You don’t want water to sit in your yard overnight since a damp lawn can attract lawn diseases and pests.<br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Should I fertilize my lawn during a drought?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Don’t fertilize your lawn during a drought. Fertilizers should never be applied when the grass is dormant.</p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Should I mow my grass during a drought?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If New Mexico is experiencing a drought, cut your grass longer and mow less frequently – but don’t stop mowing altogether. During this time, never cut more than ⅓ of the grass’s height. Otherwise, it can damage your grass. </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"prof\">Professional Help for Your Drought-Resistant New Mexico Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many ways to turn your yard into a drought-resistant landscape. It can be as simple as adding a layer of mulch to your flower bed or as extensive as installing a rock garden in your backyard. No matter how small, any step taken to reduce your yard’s water consumption makes it more capable of taking care of itself and less likely to succumb to droughts.&nbsp;<br>Looking for a New Mexico <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">lawn care pro</a> near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/nm/albuquerque/\">Albuquerque</a> and many more cities across the Land of Enchantment.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: Coralles, New Mexico / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEEXD7YRvU/\" target=\"_blank\">ivanastar</a> / Canva Pro / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\">License</a> </p>\n","title":"11 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for New Mexico","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.263157894736842,"src":"/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/1789c/solar-panels-working-9-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/107df/solar-panels-working-9-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/293e9/solar-panels-working-9-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/f2cbb/solar-panels-working-9-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/1789c/solar-panels-working-9-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/c26c2/solar-panels-working-9-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/1dd6e/solar-panels-working-9-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/67b76/solar-panels-working-9-1.webp 320w,\n/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/8df11/solar-panels-working-9-1.webp 500w,\n/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/98a65/solar-panels-working-9-1.webp 800w,\n/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/1dd6e/solar-panels-working-9-1.webp 960w,\n/static/45cfe87dc2ced05233f899ba6f4c6479/3cc96/solar-panels-working-9-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for New Mexico | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover 11 drought-resistant landscaping ideas for New Mexico that can help your lawn and landscape thrive even during dry weather."}}},{"node":{"id":"1b9efdaa-cc86-58ca-be41-710cca29dcbb","slug":"spring-lawn-care-tips-south-carolina","path":"/lawn-care/sc/spring-lawn-care-tips-south-carolina/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"1ea697f8-5b42-5431-b368-7296faebead2","name":"South Carolina","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>As winter ends and spring approaches, homeowners in the Palmetto State are gearing up for the annual task of spring maintenance for their lawns. With the arrival of warmer weather, now&#8217;s the best time to prepare your lawn for the upcoming season. But even if you&#8217;re familiar with South Carolina&#8217;s unique conditions, lawn care can [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>As winter ends and spring approaches, homeowners in the Palmetto State are gearing up for the annual task of spring maintenance for their lawns. With the arrival of warmer weather, now&#8217;s the best time to prepare your lawn for the upcoming season. But even if you&#8217;re familiar with South Carolina&#8217;s unique conditions, lawn care can still be a daunting task.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To help you achieve a healthy and lush lawn this season, here are 12 spring lawn care tips specific to the climate and soil conditions of South Carolina. These tips cover everything from soil testing and fertilization to mowing and watering techniques.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we&#8217;ll cover:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#why\">Why is Lawn Care Important in the Spring?</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#spring\">12 Spring Lawn Care Tips for South Carolina</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#prepare\">Prepare Your Lawn Care Tools</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#test\">Test the Soil for Nutrient Deficiencies</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#perform\">Perform Spring Cleanup</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#water\">Water the Lawn Efficiently</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#remove\">Remove Thatch Buildup</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#aerate\">Aerate Only as Needed</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#mow\">Mow According to Your Grass Type</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#overseed\">Overseed To Improve Lawn Thickness</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#control\">Control and Prevent Weed Invasion</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#fertilize\">Fertilize To Support Healthy New Growth</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#kill\">Kill Lawn Pests Before They Overrun Your Yard</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#treat\">Treat Lingering Lawn Diseases Before New Growth Starts</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Spring Lawn Care in South Carolina</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why\">Why is Lawn Care Important in the Spring?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring is a critical time of year for lawn care, and neglecting your lawn during this season can have significant consequences throughout the rest of the year.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>During winter, grass goes dormant and can become weakened by cold temperatures, snow, and ice. So when spring arrives, take proactive steps to revitalize your lawn and ensure it can thrive throughout the growing season. <strong>Otherwise, it can lead to a weak, patchy lawn vulnerable to diseases, pests, and drought</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to promoting the health of your lawn, spring lawn care also can have aesthetic benefits. A green and lush lawn is a beautiful addition to any home and can <strong>increase curb appeal and property value</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"spring\">12 Spring Lawn Care Tips for South Carolina</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>These 12 tips specifically tailored for South Carolina can help ensure your lawn stays healthy, lush, and green throughout the year:</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"prepare\">1. Prepare Your Lawn Care Tools</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/17218096280_40c673bc1f_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"A picture of blade of a red coloured mower\" class=\"wp-image-13458\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/17218096280_40c673bc1f_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/17218096280_40c673bc1f_c-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/17218096280_40c673bc1f_c-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/17218096280_40c673bc1f_c-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/17218096280_40c673bc1f_c-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/diversey/17218096280\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tony Webster</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>As spring arrives, it&#8217;s time to dust off your lawn care tools hibernating in the garage. Prepare your trowels, loppers, hand clippers, shovel, hoe, lawn mower, and other lawn equipment. Also, check if they&#8217;re in top shape before you start working on your yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To ensure your tools are primed for action, <strong>start by performing a basic maintenance check</strong>. This should include the following steps:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Sharpen your lawn mower blades to ensure a clean, even cut.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Give your tools a <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/tool-hygiene/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">thorough cleaning</a>. Use a stiff brush or cloth to remove any excess debris from the surface.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>To prevent the spread of harmful pathogens, soak your hand tools in a diluted bleach solution or spray them with rubbing alcohol.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once you&#8217;ve cleaned your tools, dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth and apply a light coating of camellia oil to prevent rusting.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Verify that your weed eater has an adequate amount of line.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you have a battery-powered tool, check if it&#8217;s still functioning properly and ensure the batteries are not dead.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stock up on fuel, change the engine oil, and replace the spark plug and filter if you have a gas-powered lawn mower.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Complete these tasks early in the season so your lawn care tools will not malfunction or break down and disrupt your yard work.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"test\">2. Test the Soil for Nutrient Deficiencies</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxfuel.com-7-1.jpg\" alt=\"A person using soil for testing\" class=\"wp-image-15009\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxfuel.com-7-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxfuel.com-7-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxfuel.com-7-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxfuel.com-7-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxfuel.com-7-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.pxfuel.com/en/free-photo-ogywa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxfuel</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensuring your soil contains the right mix of nutrients is critical to achieving optimal lawn growth. The soil is the unsung hero of a healthy lawn – providing a foundation of essential nutrients that enable grass to flourish. Even if you fertilize your lawn regularly, a <strong>deficiency in key nutrients can limit the full potential of your grass</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>But how can you ensure your soil provides the nutrients your lawn needs? The most effective way is to collect a soil sample and have it analyzed by professionals.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fortunately, Clemson University offers affordable testing services, with <a href=\"https://www.clemson.edu/public/regulatory/ag-srvc-lab/soil-testing/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">soil analysis</a> costing just <strong>$10 or less per sample</strong>. Once you receive the soil test results, you can ascertain which amendments your soil needs to achieve peak health and nourishment.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, <strong>lime can be used to adjust the pH of the soil</strong>. Other essential nutrients include phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen, and potash. Ensure your soil is healthy and well-nourished so you can set the stage for a thriving, vibrant lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> For lawns with warm-season grasses, they should be tested in late winter or early spring to identify any issues before the growing season starts. On the other hand, soil testing for lawns with cool-season tall fescue should be conducted between June and August, when the grass is actively growing and can benefit the most from soil amendments.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"perform\">3. Perform Spring Cleanup</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After readying your lawn care equipment and receiving your soil test results, it&#8217;s time to start your lawn care routine. Spring is the best time to give your yard a thorough cleanup – <strong>removing debris and dead branches that have accumulated over the winter</strong>. There&#8217;s no better way to rejuvenate your outdoor space and prepare it for the warmer months ahead.</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Scour the lawn for large branches and other debris that may have fallen during the winter months.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take a closer look at your trees and determine if there are any dead or damaged branches that need to be removed. This will not only enhance the appearance of your trees but also protect your property from potential hazards.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Next, remove dead or damaged leaves and stems from your perennials, shrubs, ornamental grasses, and trees. Use loppers or hand pruners to tidy up these areas, making way for new growth.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>After clearing the debris, use a blower to remove any remaining leaves or cuttings from underneath bushes, trees, and flower beds.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Finally, consider using a mulching mower with a bag attachment to collect and mulch any remaining dead material. This mulched material can be added to your <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">compost pile</a>, enriching your soil for future growth.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"water\">4. Water the Lawn Efficiently</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Watering-Lawn.jpg\" alt=\"a person watering the lawn with water\" class=\"wp-image-12691\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Watering-Lawn.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Watering-Lawn-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Watering-Lawn-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Watering-Lawn-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Watering-Lawn-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/715726\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring is a tricky time for lawn care. While it may be tempting to turn on your sprinkler system, hold off for a bit. The soil is still moist, so your lawn doesn&#8217;t need watering just yet. And be gentle when walking or using equipment on your lawn, as the <strong>damp soil is more prone to damage</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you&#8217;ve applied the first batch of fertilizer and your grass is actively growing, it&#8217;s time to start watering. But be careful not to overdo it. Experts suggest no more than <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/how-often-should-a-lawn-be-watered/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1 inch of water per week</a>, as overwatering can lead to the following:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Unwanted fungal growth that can damage your lawn</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Potentially hazardous substances from weed killers, insecticides, and fertilizers can pollute groundwater</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pesky insects that can harm your grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shallow root systems that can&#8217;t absorb enough water, making your lawn more vulnerable to dry spells</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accumulated dead plant matter that can stifle your grass</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Overwatering can cause issues, but <strong>underwatering can be just as harmful</strong>. Neglected grass that is thirsty will eventually dry up and die. It&#8217;s essential to <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/watering-lawns/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">strike a balance</a> and give your lawn the right amount of water.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the temperatures rise, monitor your lawn&#8217;s water intake. Look for the following signs which <strong>indicate that your grass needs more water</strong>:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Limp or wilted grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grass discolorations (tan or gray)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Footprints that remain visible after walking on the lawn</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintaining the right amount of moisture in your soil is crucial to a healthy lawn. Here&#8217;s a quick and easy test to <strong>check if your soil is getting enough water</strong>:</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1:</strong> Grab a screwdriver and push it into the soil.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2: </strong>If the screwdriver goes in effortlessly, your soil has enough moisture, and you can keep watering as usual.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3:</strong> If the screwdriver meets resistance, your soil may be too dry. Try watering more frequently, but don&#8217;t go overboard – remember that 1 inch of water per week is enough.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Take care of your lawn in the spring, but don&#8217;t be too eager to jump into heavy yard work. Wet soil can quickly become compacted, causing damage to the roots and other problems. Try to start with lighter tasks, such as pruning, raking leaves, and removing debris. Wait for the soil to get dry before undertaking heavy yard work to ensure your lawn stays healthy and beautiful.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"remove\">5. Remove Thatch Buildup</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Thatch is like a comfy blanket for your lawn, made up of organic debris, dead leaves, and grass blades that accumulate between the soil and the grass. It<strong> provides natural insulation and slowly releases valuable nutrients</strong> for the grass to use.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>But like a blanket that&#8217;s too thick, too much thatch can cause problems. It can block water from reaching the roots and create a safe haven for pests and diseases to thrive. To prevent this, it&#8217;s best to <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/controlling-thatch-in-lawns/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">remove excess thatch</a> once a year.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>This process, called dethatching or verticutting, requires a <strong>specialized tool like a hand rake or verticutter</strong>. Wait until the grass is actively growing and has been mowed several times before dethatching.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>For optimal lawn care, time your thatch removal just right:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>For warm-season lawns, you can remove thatch in the <strong>spring after green-up</strong> or when the grass is growing rapidly in the summer.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>On the other hand, dethatch cool-season grasses in the late summer or early fall.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>It&#8217;s best to avoid doing this during hot and dry periods, as this can put additional stress on your lawn.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Dethatch carefully so as not to damage healthy grass blades.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aerate\">6. Aerate Only as Needed</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3409167404_35aeb9659b_o-1.jpg\" alt=\"tool used for aeration in lawn\" class=\"wp-image-14173\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3409167404_35aeb9659b_o-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3409167404_35aeb9659b_o-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3409167404_35aeb9659b_o-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3409167404_35aeb9659b_o-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3409167404_35aeb9659b_o-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/wheatfields/3409167404\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">allispossible.org.uk</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>A crucial lawn care technique, aeration involves perforating the soil with small holes. This method allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots. While aeration is <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/why-you-should-aerate-your-lawn/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">good practice</a>, there are times when it&#8217;s best to avoid it, particularly during the spring season.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring aeration <strong>may lead to the germination of warm-season weeds</strong>, which could harm your lawn&#8217;s growth. Moreover, the dry spring weather can worsen the situation by drying out the soil, leading to an unhealthy lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if your lawn is severely compacted and unable to grow, aeration may be your only option. But if you can, <strong>wait until May or June</strong> when the majority of warm-season weeds have stopped seeding.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>For South Carolina&#8217;s most common warm-season and cool-season grasses, these are the <strong>recommended times for aeration</strong>:</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Grass Type</strong></td><td><strong>When to Aerate</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Bermudagrass</td><td>Late spring or early summer</td></tr><tr><td>Carpetgrass</td><td>Late spring or early summer</td></tr><tr><td>Centipedegrass</td><td>Late spring or early summer</td></tr><tr><td>St. Augustinegrass</td><td>Late spring or early summer</td></tr><tr><td>Tall fescue</td><td>Fall</td></tr><tr><td>Zoysiagrass</td><td>Late spring or early summer</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mow\">7. Mow According to Your Grass Type</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less.jpg\" alt=\"Red color lawn mover on the grass \" class=\"wp-image-13168\" width=\"800\" height=\"556\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less-300x209.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less-768x534.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less-480x334.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/546548\">PxHere</a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n<p>Your lawn&#8217;s health is influenced by how you cut it. While many believe that mowing grass as short as possible is the best approach, it may not be suitable for all grass types. <strong>Cutting it too short can result in weakening</strong> and increase the likelihood of lawn diseases.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, <strong>if you let it grow too long, it can attract pests</strong> and irritate your neighbors. To determine the ideal grass height for your lawn, you need to consider the species. For the most common cool-season and warm-season grasses in South Carolina, here are the recommended mowing heights:</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Grass Type</strong></td><td><strong>Recommended Mowing Height</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Bermudagrass</td><td>1 &#8211; 2 inches</td></tr><tr><td>Carpetgrass</td><td>1 &#8211; 2 inches</td></tr><tr><td>Centipedegrass</td><td>1.5 &#8211; 2 inches</td></tr><tr><td>St. Augustinegrass</td><td>2.5 &#8211; 4 inches</td></tr><tr><td>Tall fescue</td><td>2 &#8211; 4 inches</td></tr><tr><td>Zoysiagrass</td><td>1 &#8211; 2.5 inches</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Timing is crucial when it comes to <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/mowing-lawns/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mowing your lawn</a> in the spring. Wait until your grass has grown to a <strong>minimum of 2 inches in height</strong> before you start mowing. This period will provide ample time for the roots to establish a stable foundation.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, you should pay attention to the temperature before mowing. It&#8217;s best to wait until the daily low temperature is well <strong>above 40 degrees Fahrenheit</strong>. Usually, this occurs in March or April in South Carolina. To achieve the best results, keep these lawn mowing tips in mind:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Avoid mowing wet grass.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don&#8217;t let grass clippings accumulate to more than an inch.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>It&#8217;s not advisable to cut <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/mowing-height-matters/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">more than a third</a> of the grass height at once. If the grass is 3 inches tall, don&#8217;t mow it more than an inch.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure your lawn mower&#8217;s blades are sharp.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mow your lawn in different directions.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Cool-season grasses like tall fescue go dormant as the temperature rises, so they do not require mowing in the spring and summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"overseed\">8. Overseed To Improve Lawn Thickness</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For homeowners who prioritize the maintenance of their lawn, overseeding may be a familiar term. This technique involves sowing new grass seed onto an existing lawn to <strong>address sparse or patchy areas</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The optimal time to <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/should-you-overseed-your-warm-season-lawn/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">overseed a lawn</a> is during the active growing season, which typically takes place during spring. South Carolina can accommodate both warm-season and cool-season grasses since <strong>it falls within a turf transition zone</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perform <strong>overseeding for warm-season grasses in the spring</strong>. During this time, they are preparing for their growing season and can benefit from the additional nutrients. In contrast, if you have a lawn with cool-season grass, like tall fescue, it&#8217;s best to wait until fall before overseeding.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the following chart, you can find the <strong>best planting times</strong> for the most prevalent warm-season grasses in South Carolina. These recommended times are based on average daily temperatures and weather conditions.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Grass Type</strong></td><td><strong>Best Daily Low &#8211; High Temperatures for Planting</strong></td><td><strong>Best Time to Plant Seeds in South Carolina</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Bermudagrass</td><td>75 &#8211; 80</td><td>May – June</td></tr><tr><td>Centipedegrass</td><td>70 &#8211; 90</td><td>May – June</td></tr><tr><td>Zoysiagrass</td><td>80 &#8211; 95</td><td>Late May – July</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n\n\n\n<p>After overseeding your lawn, you should <strong>adjust your lawn maintenance routine to accommodate the newly planted grass</strong>. Although the grass may be the same species as the established lawn, it requires extra care to grow and thrive. Adequate fertilization and watering are essential for ensuring the new grass grows thick and healthy.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Choosing between overseeding and weed control can be a tricky decision in the spring. If you apply herbicides to prevent weed germination, it also can prevent your new grass from growing. So, consider the pros and cons carefully and decide which aspect is more important for your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"control\">9. Control and Prevent Weed Invasion</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_stellaria_media_common_chickweed_ჟუნჟრუკი.jpg\" alt=\"Common chickweed grown on green colored plants\" class=\"wp-image-12644\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_stellaria_media_common_chickweed_ჟუნჟრუკი.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_stellaria_media_common_chickweed_ჟუნჟრუკი-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_stellaria_media_common_chickweed_ჟუნჟრუკი-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_stellaria_media_common_chickweed_ჟუნჟრუკი-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stellaria_media_Common_Chickweed_%E1%83%9F%E1%83%A3%E1%83%9C%E1%83%9F%E1%83%A0%E1%83%A3%E1%83%99%E1%83%98.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lazaregagnidze</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintaining a lush and healthy lawn requires a proactive approach to <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/managing-weeds-in-warm-season-lawns/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">weed control</a> that prevents them from taking root and spreading. To keep your lawn free from weeds, <strong>focus on the fundamentals of lawn care</strong>, including proper watering, dethatching, aeration, regular mowing, and overseeding. These basics can help prevent weed problems before they even start.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re considering using pre-emergent <a href=\"https://www.clemson.edu/cafls/research/weeds/management/herbicide-list.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">herbicides</a> on your bermudagrass, centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, or tall fescue, the best time to apply is mid-March. The second application should be around eight to 10 weeks later. Keep an eye on the air temperature, waiting <strong>until it hits 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit</strong> for at least four consecutive days before applying.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you miss the window for pre-emergent herbicide and notice weeds starting to grow, you can <strong>consider using a post-emergent herbicide</strong>. However, you need to wait until after the grass has finished greening up before applying.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> If you plan on overseeding while using pre-emergent herbicides, make sure to time the overseeding at least eight weeks after applying the herbicide.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fertilize\">10. Fertilize To Support Healthy New Growth</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A thriving lawn requires more than just nourishment. The timing and application of the right fertilizer can provide your lawn with the additional support it requires to grow strong and become lush.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to Fertilize Your Lawn</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Timing is crucial even when it comes to fertilizing your South Carolina lawn. The <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/when-should-you-fertilize-your-lawn/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">optimal period</a> to start fertilizing is in late spring, once the grass has resumed active growth and regained its vibrant green color. The initial round of fertilization usually takes place in May, but it&#8217;s critical to hold off on the application <strong>until the grass has started growing again</strong>. Otherwise, the fertilizer won&#8217;t have the desired effect.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Type of Fertilizer To Use</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Use slow-release <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/fertilizing-lawns/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">nitrogen fertilizer</a> to promote the consistent and steady growth of your lawn throughout the season. Although fast-release fertilizers can speed up growth, they can cause unsustainable growth or even <strong>burn the grass due to too much nitrogen</strong> being applied too quickly. It&#8217;s best to take a slow and steady approach when fertilizing your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Fertilize Your Lawn</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Achieving a green, lush lawn requires more than just dumping fertilizer onto your lawn. To avoid uneven growth and unsightly streaks, it&#8217;s vital to <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/when-and-how-to-fertilize-your-lawn/\">use a spreader</a> when fertilizing your lawn. This ensures that the fertilizer is evenly distributed and minimizes the risk of overfertilization, which can be detrimental to your grass.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> It&#8217;s a common misconception that applying more fertilizer will result in faster growth. However, overfertilizing your lawn can lead to weakened grass and other issues. Applying fertilizer too early won&#8217;t make your grass grow any faster. Therefore, it&#8217;s important to be patient and fertilize at the right time for optimal results.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kill\">11. Kill Lawn Pests Before They Overrun Your Yard</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11212516326_eefa4aef17_o-1.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of a black billbug\" class=\"wp-image-12978\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11212516326_eefa4aef17_o-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11212516326_eefa4aef17_o-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11212516326_eefa4aef17_o-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11212516326_eefa4aef17_o-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11212516326_eefa4aef17_o-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/79452129@N02/11212516326\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fyn Kynd</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the spring season arrives in South Carolina, <strong>be proactive in preventing lawn pests</strong> from causing damage to your yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s not just the Easter bunny that scatters eggs on your lawn this season. Many pests lay their eggs during this time, and by the time summer arrives, these eggs will have hatched into larvae that can quickly mature into adult pests. Taking action early on is crucial in preventing a pest infestation and ensuring the health of your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In spring, you may come across various pests that can harm your lawn, including:</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Grass Type</strong></td><td><strong>Common Spring Lawn Pests</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Bermudagrass</td><td>Bermudagrass mites, grubs, nematodes, bermudagrass scales, <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/mole-cricket-management-in-turfgrass\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mole crickets</a>, and ground pearls</td></tr><tr><td>Carpetgrass</td><td>Armyworms, mole crickets, nematodes, sod webworms, and white grubs</td></tr><tr><td>Centipedegrass</td><td>Grubs, spittlebugs, ground pearls, nematodes, and mole crickets</td></tr><tr><td>St. Augustinegrass</td><td>Armyworms, billbugs, chinch bugs, grub worms, mole crickets, and sod webworms</td></tr><tr><td>Tall fescue</td><td>No lawn pest issues in the spring (March through May)</td></tr><tr><td>Zoysiagrass</td><td>Mole crickets, ground pearls, nematodes, and grubs</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Refrain from using pesticides when dealing with these pests. Instead, it&#8217;s best to prevent infestations by keeping your lawn healthy and free from excessive moisture and thatch. If you <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/scouting-for-lawn-insects/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">find pests</a>, use targeted pesticides that won&#8217;t harm beneficial insects.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"treat\">12. Treat Lingering Lawn Diseases Before New Growth Starts</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Springtime can be a challenging season for lawn enthusiasts, especially for those with neglected or weathered lawns. The hot and humid climate of South Carolina can provide a favorable environment for various fungi that can cause lawn diseases. These <strong>diseases often result in unsightly dead patches or discoloration</strong>, which can quickly spread during the growing season.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s essential to act quickly to address these diseases. Fortunately, Clemson University has compiled a list of common <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/leaf-diseases-of-lawns/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">turfgrass diseases</a> that South Carolina homeowners should be aware of. By identifying the specific disease affecting your lawn, you can take appropriate steps to prevent further spread and ensure your lawn remains healthy and vibrant throughout the season.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Grass Type</strong></td><td><strong>Common Spring Lawn Diseases</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Bermudagrass</td><td>Brown patch, dollar spot, and spring dead spot</td></tr><tr><td>Carpetgrass</td><td>Brown patch</td></tr><tr><td>Centipedegrass</td><td>Brown patch</td></tr><tr><td>St. Augustinegrass</td><td>Fairy rings</td></tr><tr><td>Tall fescue</td><td>No lawn disease issues in the spring (March through May)</td></tr><tr><td>Zoysiagrass</td><td>Brown patch and dollar spot</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brown Patch (Large Patch)</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What to look for:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Leaf spots that are either black or reddish-brown</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patches of <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/spring-dead-spot/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">gray or brown grass</a> that have an irregular or circular shape and vary from 5 inches to 25 feet in diameter</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Orange grass or thin, smoke-colored rings surrounding the affected spot</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to treat brown patch:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Use fungicides containing triadimefon, thiophanate-methyl, propiconazole, PCNB, myclobutanil, or maneb to stop the disease from spreading and eliminate the fungus. While the disease is active, avoid using nitrogen. To regulate low pH levels, add lime to the soil. Also, take steps to remove dew from the grass in the morning, water the lawn early in the day, increase sunlight exposure, and remove thatch buildup.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dollar Spot</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What to look for:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Circular patches of grass that appear sunken, discolored, and straw-like in color, with a size and shape similar to a dollar coin</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fuzzy, white-colored mold may develop on the surface of the affected grass in the early morning</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Individual grass blades may show straw-colored, yellowish-green, or reddish-brown spots</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to treat dollar spot:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>To combat serious cases, use fungicides that contain propiconazole, myclobutanil, or triadimefon. Mow your lawn regularly while avoiding cutting it too short. Do not overwater your lawn, and irrigate in the morning to allow the grass ample time to dry out before nightfall. Apply nitrogen fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth and prevent dollar spot. Additionally, limit thatch buildup and remove morning dew from the grass.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fairy Rings</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What to look for:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>If you notice an arc or ring of dead grass surrounded by healthy, green grass, it could be an indication of fairy rings. Sometimes, a white fungal growth may be visible in the soil, or there may be a dark green arc or ring in the grass.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to treat fairy rings:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Eliminating fairy rings can be challenging because the fungi that cause them have deep roots, and fungicides may not always be effective. A recommended solution is to excavate one foot of soil in and around the affected area. After removing the soil, you can then reseed or resod the impacted area to level out the lawn.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Spring Dead Spot</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What to look for:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Delayed green-up</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patches of dead grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Light brown or <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/spring-dead-spot/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">straw-colored spots</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grass that appears wilted and dry</li>\n\n\n\n<li>White fungal growth on the dead grass or in the thatch layer</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to treat spring dead spot:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Maintain your soil pH in the range between 5.8 and 6.2. Potassium levels should be kept at the higher end of the recommended range in your soil test results. If your lawn needs it, consider dethatching in May and aerating annually. Also, water your lawn infrequently and always in the morning. In October, apply three fungicide treatments to keep any potential fungi at bay.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Spring Lawn Care in South Carolina</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What effective substances can I apply to my lawn in the spring?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The answer will depend on the specific needs of your lawn. In general, it is recommended to apply a <strong>slow-release fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content</strong> in the spring to encourage growth and green-up. Follow the application instructions carefully and <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/nutrientpollution/what-you-can-do-your-yard\">don&#8217;t overfertilize</a>, as this can lead to nutrient runoff and pollution of waterways.<br/>Additionally, consider factors like soil pH and any specific nutrient deficiencies that may need to be addressed with <strong>targeted fertilizers or soil amendments</strong>. A soil test can provide valuable information to guide your fertilization plan.<br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How long will it take for grass to grow in South Carolina?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The time it takes for grass to grow in South Carolina can vary depending on several factors, including the type of grass, soil conditions, and <a href=\"https://www.weather.gov/gsp/gspcli\">climate</a>. Cool-season grasses like tall fescue can <strong>germinate in seven to 10 days and reach maturity in about four to six weeks</strong>.<br/>On the other hand, warm-season grasses like bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass may take longer to establish, with <strong>germination taking 10-14 days and maturity reached in 60-90 days</strong>.<br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are some options for top-dressing my lawn?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">There are several options for top-dressing your lawn, including using <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/composting/\">compost</a>, sand, or a mixture of the two. You also can use specialized top-dressing soil mixes that contain a <strong>blend of sand, peat, and compost</strong>.<br/>The type of top dressing you choose will depend on your lawn&#8217;s specific needs, such as improving drainage, adding nutrients, or leveling out uneven areas. Choose wisely and apply it properly to avoid damaging the grass.<br/></p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"get\">Get Your Lawn Ready for the Season Ahead</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also provides numerous benefits to your well-being and the environment. With these 12 spring lawn care tips specifically tailored for <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/sc/charleston/\">Charleston</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/sc/rock-hill/\">Rock Hill</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/sc/mount-pleasant/\">Mount Pleasant</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/sc/columbia/\">Columbia</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/sc/myrtle-beach/\">Myrtle Beach</a>, and other cities across South Carolina, homeowners can ensure their lawns are well-prepared to thrive throughout the growing season.<br>So, take advantage of the spring season and start implementing these tips. Don&#8217;t hesitate to reach out to a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">lawn care pro</a> for expert help in achieving the lawn of your dreams.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: Beaufort, South Carolina / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/kenlund/5810682235\" target=\"_blank\">Ken Lund</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"12 Spring Lawn Care Tips for South Carolina","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/1789c/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/107df/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/293e9/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/f2cbb/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/1789c/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/c26c2/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/1dd6e/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/67b76/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.webp 320w,\n/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/8df11/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.webp 500w,\n/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/98a65/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.webp 800w,\n/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/1dd6e/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.webp 960w,\n/static/b54d428570807145a9af19f65c04bb30/3cc96/5810682235_8f5defa9f0_k-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"12 Spring Lawn Care Tips for South Carolina | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover 12 valuable tips for maintaining a robust and thriving lawn in South Carolina during spring and enjoy it all year-round."}}},{"node":{"id":"0eef1b6a-ab75-5022-a234-bc377481d67c","slug":"best-grass-types-south-carolina","path":"/lawn-care/sc/best-grass-types-south-carolina/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"1ea697f8-5b42-5431-b368-7296faebead2","name":"South Carolina","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the Palmetto State is blessed with a moderate climate, abundant rainfall, and picturesque scenery. These factors make it an ideal location for growing a beautiful lawn. But with numerous options available, choosing the right grass type for your yard can take time and effort. Take [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the Palmetto State is blessed with a moderate climate, abundant rainfall, and picturesque scenery. These factors make it an ideal location for growing a beautiful lawn. But with numerous options available, choosing the right grass type for your yard can take time and effort.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a closer look at the 6 best grass types for South Carolina, from the drought-tolerant bermudagrass to the shade-loving Zoysiagrass. You&#8217;ll learn about crucial factors like water requirements, disease resistance, and ease of maintenance. With this information, you&#8217;ll be well on your way to a lush, green yard that&#8217;s the envy of the neighborhood.</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#warm\">Warm-Season vs. Cool-Season Grasses</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#warmse\">6 Warm-Season and Cool-Season Grasses for South Carolina</a></strong>\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#bermuda\">Bermudagrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#carpet\">Carpetgrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#centipede\">Centipedegrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#st\">St. Augustinegrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#tall\">Tall Fescue</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#zoysia\">Zoysiagrass</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About South Carolina Grass Types</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"warm\">Warm-Season vs. Cool-Season Grasses</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Warm-season and cool-season grasses have distinct differences that are crucial to understanding their growing patterns. While warm-season grasses grow rapidly and are drought-resistant, cool-season grasses have a resilient and thick growth pattern.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, these differences barely scratch the surface of their contrasting characteristics. The following additional details can help you distinguish between warm-season and cool-season grasses:</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"warms\">Warm-Season Grasses</h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>For optimal growth, warm-season grasses should be planted in <strong>late spring or early summer</strong>.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They have a rougher texture with thicker blades compared to cool-season grasses.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They should be mowed at a shorter height.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>These grasses thrive when the temperature is <strong>between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit</strong>.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Warm-season grasses will become dormant in the winter, but they will start to grow again in the spring when the temperature begins to warm up.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cool\">Cool-Season Grasses</h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The perfect time to plant cool-season grasses is in <strong>late summer or early fall.</strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Their thin blades make them an excellent match for overseeding fine or medium-textured warm-season grasses.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cool-season grasses should be mowed at a taller height compared to warm-season grasses.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ideal temperature range for these grasses to thrive is typically <strong>between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit</strong>.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>These cold-tolerant grasses will go dormant during the hot summer months, but they will begin to grow again once the temperature cools in the fall.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"warmse\">6 Warm-Season and Cool-Season Grasses for South Carolina</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you&#8217;re looking for a warm-season or cool-season grass, here are the top picks that are perfectly suited to South Carolina&#8217;s humid subtropical climate and soil conditions:</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bermuda\">1. Bermudagrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"608\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\" alt=\"closeup of green bermudagrass\" class=\"wp-image-12358\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2-300x228.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2-768x584.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2-480x365.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cynodon_dactylon_2.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Bidgee</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>A warm-season turfgrass that&#8217;s well-adapted to the hot and humid climate of South Carolina, bermudagrass boasts fast growth, which means it can quickly establish a thick and healthy turf. This grass variety is known for being drought-tolerant and able to withstand heavy foot traffic, which is why it&#8217;s a popular choice for lawns, sports fields, and golf courses in the area.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Several types of bermudagrass are available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. For example, <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/bermudagrass/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">common bermudagrass</a> is coarser and requires less maintenance. On the other hand, hybrid cultivars have a fine texture and refined appearance but require greater care to maintain.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Proper care and attention are crucial to maintaining a healthy and beautiful bermudagrass lawn. Regular mowing and watering are necessary, and the grass also requires fertilization and aeration to keep it in top shape. In addition, the soil type and pH can affect the grass&#8217;s health and appearance, so homeowners should consider these factors when selecting a bermudagrass variety.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons and rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance: </strong>Low – some cultivars need more exposure to direct sunlight than others</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>High – may become dormant in extended periods of drought</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>Moderate to high – requires frequent mowing, fertilization, and watering to maintain its health and appearance</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Recommended mowing height: </strong>1-2 inches – increase the mowing height during bouts of extreme heat or drought</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate resistance – can be prone to leaf spot, spring dead spot, brown patch, and dollar spot</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests:</strong> Low resistance – mostly prone to armyworms, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, and white grubs</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH</strong>: 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Grows in most soil types</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>This grass species is notable for its extraordinary potential for quick growth, making it a favored alternative for homeowners seeking fast recovery from damage. However, this aggressive growth can have negative implications because it can cause the grass to invade and overrun other carefully manicured areas or nearby flower beds.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"carpet\">2. Carpetgrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"449\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carpetgrass-1.jpeg\" alt=\"green color carpetgrass\" class=\"wp-image-14237\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carpetgrass-1.jpeg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carpetgrass-1-300x168.jpeg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carpetgrass-1-768x431.jpeg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carpetgrass-1-480x269.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Carpet_Grass.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sugeesh</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its similar appearance to crabgrass, <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/carpetgrass/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">carpetgrass</a> has distinct qualities that make it a favored choice for homeowners in the southern parts of the state who are dealing with problematic lawn conditions. Specifically, it has the ability to thrive in areas that are prone to drought and lack nutrients, which makes it an attractive option when other types of grass may struggle to survive.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, carpetgrass also can grow and flourish in areas with limited sunlight, such as those surrounded by trees or other structures that block out the sun. This characteristic sets it apart from other grasses that may not be able to adapt to such conditions.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also referred to as Louisianagrass, this type of grass is able to withstand flooding and other water-related challenges. It can tolerate standing water for prolonged periods, which makes it an excellent option for properties that are susceptible to hurricanes, heavy rainfall, and flooding or that have poor drainage.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another benefit of carpetgrass is that it can grow without the need for additional fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. While some homeowners may choose to apply nitrogen to encourage growth, it is not necessary for the grass to thrive.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance: </strong>Moderate – although St. Augustinegrass is more shade-tolerant</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Low to moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Moderate to high – it needs weekly mowing to control its tall seed heads</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Recommended mowing height:</strong> 1-2 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Low resistance – can be susceptible to large patch</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests:</strong> Low resistance – mostly prone to white grubs and nematodes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH</strong>: 5-6</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Sandy, moist, acidic soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> Late spring to early summer is the optimal time to reseed carpetgrass, as the warm soil temperature will promote seed germination.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"centipede\">3. Centipedegrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\" alt=\"Green Color centipede grass\" class=\"wp-image-14257\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Centipede_Grass.JPG\" target=\"_blank\">James Becwar</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC0 1.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Commonly found in lawns across the southern U.S., centipedegrass is known for its dense, low-growing, and carpet-like appearance. Unlike other turfgrasses, this warm-season grass requires minimal mowing, fertilizer, and water, making it a great option for low-maintenance grass. In fact, it&#8217;s known as the &#8220;lazy man&#8217;s grass.&#8221;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a preference for partial shade and well-drained soils, <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/centipedegrass/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">centipedegrass</a> is perfect for those who want a lawn that doesn&#8217;t need regular upkeep. Although it may not have the same deep green color as other types of grass, centipedegrass produces beautiful seed heads that become brown as they mature.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance: </strong>Moderate – grows best in areas with the most sun exposure but can survive even with six hours of direct sunlight per day</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>Low to moderate – may become dormant during long periods of drought</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>Low – thrives even with minimal fertilization, mowing, and watering</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Recommended mowing height: </strong>1.5-2 inches – for shaded areas, raise the mower height by half an inch</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate resistance – can be prone to iron chlorosis and centipedegrass decline</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests:</strong> Moderate resistance – mostly prone to ground pearl insects, nematodes, spittlebugs, sod webworms, and mole crickets</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH</strong>: 5-6</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Acidic, infertile, and well-drained soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>This grass variety is ideal for homes in central South Carolina and most of the state.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"st\">4. St. Augustinegrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Palmetto-St.-Augustine.jpg\" alt=\"Bubble on green color grass\" class=\"wp-image-14280\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Palmetto-St.-Augustine.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Palmetto-St.-Augustine-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Palmetto-St.-Augustine-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Palmetto-St.-Augustine-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/33193996@N07/3490563956\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jay Morgan</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-ND 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also known as Charleston grass, St. Augustinegrass is a popular choice for lawns in coastal homes due to its ability to thrive in both sandy and clay soils. This makes it ideal for many areas along the Carolina coast. It can withstand the heat and salt that is common in these beachfront properties while also preferring warm winters and moist soil conditions.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>With its flat stems and broad leaves, <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/st-augustinegrass/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">St. Augustinegrass</a> creates a lush and dense turf, resulting in a beautiful blue-green lawn. Its thick growth also makes it effective at crowding out most weeds. However, this grass variety is susceptible to fungal diseases and pests like chinch bugs.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance: </strong>Moderate – some cultivars are more shade-tolerant</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>Moderate to high – needs frequent watering, mowing, and fertilization</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Recommended mowing height: </strong>2.5-4 inches (mow tall in shade, standard cultivars 3-4 inches, and dwarf cultivars 2.5-3 inches)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Low to moderate resistance – mostly prone to gray leaf spot, take-all root rot, and large patch</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests:</strong> Low resistance – common pests include mole crickets, grubs, cutworms, chinch bugs, armyworms, webworms, and grass loopers</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH</strong>: 6-7.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Prefers moist (not muddy) and moderately fertile soil but can grow in most soil types</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>St. Augustinegrass is native to coastal regions and thrives in moist soils and temperate winters. But with the right growing conditions, it also can grow successfully in inland regions. Note, though, that compacted, clay soils would not be suitable for this grass variety.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tall\">5. Tall Fescue</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"633\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/solar-panels-working-2-1.jpg\" alt=\"Beautiful lush green tall fescue on the ground\" class=\"wp-image-14176\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/solar-panels-working-2-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/solar-panels-working-2-1-300x237.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/solar-panels-working-2-1-768x608.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/solar-panels-working-2-1-480x380.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MADGGdvCYZM/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Billy Lau</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>With its striking, dark green color and coarse, textured appearance, this cool-season grass is ideal for lawns in the northwestern parts of the state, like Greenville. It can withstand a wide range of growing conditions, including shade, heat, and drought.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the benefits of <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/tall-fescue/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">tall fescue</a> is its ability to maintain a deep root system, which allows it to maintain its green appearance. Although it requires moderate maintenance, including regular watering, fertilization, and mowing, this grass variety is known for its resilience, making it an excellent option for lawns that experience heavy foot traffic or environmental stressors.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>While it may not have the same fine-textured appearance as other grass types, tall fescue&#8217;s hardiness makes it a favorite among homeowners who prioritize lawn health and longevity over aesthetics.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Cool-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Tillers (Bunch forming)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance: </strong>Moderate to high</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>Moderate – doesn&#8217;t recover easily from wear</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Recommended mowing height: </strong>2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations, as many tall fescue lawns grow best when they&#8217;re mowed on the tall side.)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Low to moderate resistance – can be prone to leaf spot, seedling disease, and brown patch</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests:</strong> Low to moderate resistance – can be susceptible to armyworms, cutworms, sod webworms, and grubs</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH</strong>: 5.5-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Grows in most soil types but prefers clay soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>For optimal results, apply fertilizer once during the months of September and November. Also, plant fresh grass seeds every couple of years if you wish to maintain a lush lawn and tackle any sparse or thinning spots.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"zoysia\">6. Zoysiagrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5.jpg\" alt=\"green colored zoysiagrass\" class=\"wp-image-14349\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Starr_070906-8518_Zoysia_sp..jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Forest &amp; Kim Starr</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another popular choice for lawns in South Carolina, Zoysiagrass grows well in hot and dry conditions – making it well-suited for the region&#8217;s climate. This warm-season turfgrass boasts a light green color and fine texture, creating a dense, carpet-like appearance. And because of its low to moderate maintenance needs,<strong> </strong>it&#8217;s a fantastic choice for homeowners who want a beautiful lawn without a lot of work.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the standout features of <a href=\"https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/zoysiagrass/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zoysiagrass</a> is its ability to spread rapidly, thanks to its rhizomes and stolons. This allows it to quickly establish a thick and resilient turf that can withstand heavy foot traffic and pet use. Also, remember that although it can tolerate some shade, it prefers direct sunlight.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Zoysiagrass requires less maintenance than some other grass varieties, it still needs proper care and attention to remain healthy and beautiful. This includes infrequent watering, fertilization, and mowing at the appropriate height.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons and rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance: </strong>Low to moderate – it needs ample sun exposure</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>High – although it needs supplemental watering during dry periods</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>Low to moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Recommended mowing height: </strong>1-2.5 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate resistance – common diseases include large patch, fairy rings, leaf spot, dollar spot, curvularia, brown patch, root decline, powdery mildew, pythium blight, rust, and spring dead spot</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests:</strong> Moderate resistance – can be prone to chinch bugs, nematodes, armyworms, hunting billbugs, grubs, sod webworms, and mole crickets</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH</strong>: 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Grows in most soil types but prefers well-drained soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>This grass variety is the top choice for homeowners who often organize backyard barbeques since it can withstand heavy foot traffic.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About South Carolina Grass Types</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What grass type is best for a South Carolina lawn that gets a lot of foot traffic?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Lawns that experience heavy foot traffic require grass varieties that can withstand wear and tear. So if you&#8217;re looking for a grass type that can hold up to frequent use, both <strong>bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass are popular options</strong>. These grasses are known for their deep root systems, which help them stay resilient even when subjected to heavy foot traffic.</p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I care for my lawn that&#8217;s in a transition zone?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Caring for a lawn in a transition zone can be confusing, as it is located between the cool-season and warm-season grass regions. The best approach is to <strong>choose a grass type adaptable to both hot and cold temperatures</strong> and do the following:<br/><br/>• Fertilize it twice a year, in the fall and spring, with a balanced fertilizer.<br/>• Water the lawn infrequently but deeply, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.<br/>• Aerate the soil in the fall or spring to improve drainage and nutrient absorption.<br/>• Mow the grass to its recommended height, and leave some of the clippings to provide nutrients.<br/><br/>Also, monitor your lawn for pests and diseases, as <strong>the transitional climate can create favorable conditions for both</strong>. Look for signs of stress, such as discoloration or wilting, and address any issues promptly.</p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What grass type is ideal for a pet-friendly lawn in South Carolina?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">To have a pet-friendly lawn, choose a grass variety that can tolerate the challenges posed by pets, such as wear and tear, frequent paw traffic, and pet waste. For this purpose, many homeowners prefer <strong>tough grass varieties like bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass</strong>. These grasses are known for their ability to withstand the challenges of pet use, making them excellent candidates for a pet-friendly lawn in South Carolina.</p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pick\">Pick the Right Grass for Your South Carolina Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the right grass for your lawn in South Carolina can be tricky. But by considering factors like moisture, sunlight, and maintenance requirements, you can find the perfect match for your specific needs. Whether you opt for the heat-tolerant bermudagrass or the resilient tall fescue, each of these grass types has unique strengths that make it a great choice for South Carolina&#8217;s unique climate and soil conditions.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>By giving your lawn the proper care and attention it deserves, you can ensure it stays healthy and vibrant year-round, enhancing the beauty and value of your home.<br>Reach out to a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">local lawn care professional</a> today, and get started on your journey toward a lush, green yard that you can be proud of.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: Anderson University, South Carolina / <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University,_South_Carolina.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Good Grades</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for South Carolina","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/1789c/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/107df/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 320w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/293e9/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 500w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/f2cbb/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 800w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/1789c/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 960w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/c26c2/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/1dd6e/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/67b76/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 320w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/8df11/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 500w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/98a65/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 800w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/1dd6e/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 960w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/3cc96/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for South Carolina | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Looking for the perfect grass type for your yard? 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