![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Bahiagrass-lawn.jpg\")
Looking for a low-maintenance turf option for your Southern lawn? Do you have predominantly sandy or low-fertility soil that doesn’t support Zoysiagrass or buffalograss? If either of these questions hit home with you, it may be worth a shot to try growing a Bahiagrass lawn instead, and we’ve got all the information you need! Bahiagrass […]
\n","content":"\nLooking for a low-maintenance turf option for your Southern lawn? Do you have predominantly sandy or low-fertility soil that doesn’t support Zoysiagrass or buffalograss? If either of these questions hit home with you, it may be worth a shot to try growing a Bahiagrass lawn instead, and we’ve got all the information you need!
\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soils, does well in sandy loam
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: With a moderate to high growth rate, it needs frequent mowing
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nInsect pest tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bahiagrass is grown along the Gulf Coast and in the Southeastern U.S. It does best in acidic soils and is not the best grass if your soil is naturally alkaline. It doesn’t tolerate salt water well.
\n\n\n\nWhile this may come as a surprise to many, Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum) is used mainly as a pasture grass and for hay production across the southeastern United States. However, selected varieties—Argentine and Pensacola, especially—work well as turfgrass species for lawns. Behind St. Augustinegrass, Bahia is the second most common turfgrass across much of the southeastern United States, and for a good reason.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass is well-adapted to low-fertility soils and is excellent for homeowners wanting a low-maintenance, low-input lawn. It puts down a deep root system that spreads via underground rhizomes. This root system makes it great for areas prone to drought or lawns without an irrigation system. However, Bahia doesn’t form the same dense carpet as other warm-season grasses that spread using above-ground stolons.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass is not the best choice for every Southern lawn, but it is ideal in many situations, especially if you have many acres of property to cover.
\n\n\n\n✓ Low water needs
\n\n\n\n✓ Low fertilizer requirements
\n\n\n\n✓ Lower maintenance than many other grass types
\n\n\n\n✓ Deep root system
\n\n\n\n✓ Does well in sandy and other low-fertility soils
\n\n\n\n✓ Minimal insect and disease problems
\n\n\n\n✓ Thatch is generally not a concern
\n\n\n\n✓ Establishes from seed or sod
\n\n\n\n✗ Does not form a dense carpet
\n\n\n\n✗ Seed head stems dull mower blades quickly
\n\n\n\n✗ Seed heads need regular mowing, or they become an eyesore
\n\n\n\n✗ Only a few varieties are available for home lawns
\n\n\n\n✗ Open growth habit leaves space for weeds to grow
\n\n\n\nIf you’re considering switching your lawn to Bahiagrass or using it to start grass at a fresh build, you have the option of seeding or laying sod.
\n\n\n\nHowever, some crucial differences between the two methods must be considered when choosing.
\n\n\n\nThere’s no denying that planting grass from seed is by far the cheaper of the two options and is much easier labor-wise to “install.” For homeowners with economic constraints, this makes seeding attractive. On the flip side, if you opt for seeding, the grass needs considerably more babysitting during the establishment process and takes quite a bit of time to grow into a beautiful lawn.
\n\n\n\nLaying sod comes with a pretty hefty price tag, and the process is back-breaking – even more so for Bahiagrass sod, as it tends to fall apart unless you spend extra money for sod with a netting material to hold it together. That being said, once you get it down, you automatically have a nice green lawn, and it doesn’t take micromanaging to get it established like seeding does.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass Seed: Depending on where you purchase seed from, expect to pay $100-$110 for a 25 lb bag of Pensacola Bahiagrass seed.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass Sod: A 400-square-foot pallet of Bahiagrass sod costs approximately $113 to $134.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass Seed: Getting grass seed down in late spring or early summer is best. Warm-season grasses like Bahia grow the most when the air temperatures hit a whopping 85 to 95°F, so you want to plant just before temps climb this high. This helps your grass establish as quickly as possible, putting down a sound root system so it is well-prepared to go dormant and survive the winter.
\n\n\n\nNote: Not all grass seeds you scatter will germinate; some Bahiagrass seeds lay dormant and may sprout later in the season.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass Sod: Sod is a little more forgiving timing-wise and can be put down whenever you have time to tackle the project. However! You’ll have a much easier time getting it established if you do it in the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate.
\n\n\n\nSince Bahia grows a little more sparsely than other turfgrasses, you can overseed your lawn annually with more Bahiagrass seed to keep it as thick as possible. Remember that no matter what you do, it will never grow as thick as Zoysia or other turfs with dense growth habits.
\n\n\n\n![\"sparse](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Sparse-Bahiagrass.jpg\")
Yes, I’ve said that Bahiagrass is low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need your attention at all. Here are the basic rules of Bahiagrass lawn maintenance to follow.
\n\n\n\nIt was mentioned that Bahiagrass is fantastic for large acres and properties without irrigation. This doesn’t mean it will stay green regardless of how little or how much water it gets.
\n\n\n\nWhen you’re growing Bahiagrass without irrigation, it will go into a state of dormancy and turn brown during long periods of drought. Once the rain returns, the grass greens back up and resumes growing. In climates such as Florida, where it rains most days, you may not ever need to give a Bahia lawn supplemental water.
\n\n\n\nIf you can water your lawn, it’s best to keep an eye on it and watch for signs it needs water. You’ll see folded grass blades, a color change, and footprints will remain on the grass after you walk across it. So, if you see these things, turn on the sprinklers and give your grass one-half to three-quarters of an inch of water to get it green and perky.
\n\n\n\nFertilizer specifics will depend on the soil in your yard and how you’ve managed it before. You need to account for soil type, organic matter content, if you’ve mulched clippings back into the lawn, etc. To get an exact recommendation, perform a soil test before seeding or laying sod.
\n\n\n\nAs a general rule of thumb, apply 1 to 4 pounds of nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet of yard annually.
\n\n\n\nAlways check local guidelines for lawn fertilizer blackout dates or ordinances regarding its application.
\n\n\n\nDuring the summer, Bahia is known for its characteristic Y-shaped, two- or three-branched seed heads. To keep them in check and your grass looking nice, expect to mow your lawn every one to two weeks. During the hottest parts of summer, you may need to cut it a little more frequently unless you don’t mind the seed heads, but you’ll want to keep your grass 3 to 4 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nThe seed head stems are tough on mower blades, so you may need to sharpen them more frequently than with other grasses. Keeping mower blades sharp will help give you an excellent crisp cut when you mow instead of tearing the tops of the grass off with dull mower blades.
\n\n\n\nKeeping a Bahiagrass lawn weed-free is a challenge since Bahia doesn’t grow as thick or dense as some grass types. Weeds love to come in and reside in those bare spots and compete with your grass for essential nutrients, water, and sunlight. The best defense against weeds is to maintain a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nTo do this, keep your grass mowed to the proper height, irrigate when you see signs of drought stress, and fertilize throughout the growing season. You can also consider periodically overseeding to help fill in some bare spots where the weeds like to hang out.
\n\n\n\nWhen proper lawn management doesn’t succeed in weed control, pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides are available in both chemical and organic formulations. Just stay away from products containing atrazine and metsulfuron because they damage Bahiagrass.
\n\n\n\nFortunately, Bahia lawns experience very few insect and disease problems. Watch for mole crickets, Bahiagrass billbugs, and fall armyworms, as they may cause issues in Bahiagrass lawns.
\n\n\n\nThe two classifications of turfgrass are distinguished by where they have adapted to grow the best. Warm-season grasses prefer hot summers and mild winters and grow in the South. Cool-season grasses like temperate summers and can tolerate brutal winters; they grow mainly in the northern United States.
Bahiagrass is a warm-season grass.
Bahiagrass is typically grown on sandy soils in coastal areas, so there isn’t a need to aerate, as these soils don’t compact. Also, it isn’t a grass type that develops a lot of thatch, so dethatching isn’t usually necessary.
Sometimes, when it’s growing where it isn’t wanted, Bahiagrass is considered a weed rather than a turfgrass. If Bahiagrass is a weed in your book, and it’s overrunning your lawn, see our guide on how to get rid of Bahiagrass.
\n\n\n\nIf you think a Bahiagrass lawn is a good fit for your landscape, contact one of our highly-qualified local lawn professionals. They can help get your lawn started or care for your established turf, giving you more time to spend doing what matters most to you – without sacrificing the quality of your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"Everything You Need to Know About Growing Bahiagrass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/1789c/Bahiagrass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/107df/Bahiagrass.jpg 320w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/293e9/Bahiagrass.jpg 500w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/f2cbb/Bahiagrass.jpg 800w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/1789c/Bahiagrass.jpg 960w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/c26c2/Bahiagrass.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/1dd6e/Bahiagrass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/67b76/Bahiagrass.webp 320w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/8df11/Bahiagrass.webp 500w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/98a65/Bahiagrass.webp 800w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/1dd6e/Bahiagrass.webp 960w,\n/static/915b1bf34215a32d9ee781638fc388f5/3cc96/Bahiagrass.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Everything You Need to Know About Growing Bahiagrass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Bahiagrass is a great, low-maintenance grass for Southern lawns with sandy soils. We have all the information you need if you’re looking to grow it!"}}},{"node":{"id":"57703967-635b-543e-8ae0-b2e60809557b","slug":"best-native-plants-southern-california","path":"/lawn-care/ca/best-native-plants-southern-california/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"If you’ve been to the California Botanic Garden or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, you know how beautiful native plants can be. Native species are not only well-adapted to the local climate but are also: Do you want to introduce native species to your garden? The best native plants for Southern California gardens will vary […]
\n","content":"\nIf you’ve been to the California Botanic Garden or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, you know how beautiful native plants can be. Native species are not only well-adapted to the local climate but are also:
\n\n\n\nDo you want to introduce native species to your garden? The best native plants for Southern California gardens will vary by region, as well as the needs and preferences of each homeowner.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bush-Sunflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: tdlucas5000 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as California brittlebush, this bushy shrub is native to the coastlines and inland foothills of SoCal. It has thin branches with widely spaced leaves. It produces yellow flowers with a brown center, quite similar to daisies. They bloom from February through June when temperatures are moderate, and moisture is adequate.
\n\n\n\nBush sunflowers attract small birds, butterflies, bees, and other insects. They are fast-growing, low-maintenance, and drought-tolerant. You also can use them as a ground cover or for erosion control.
\n\n\n\nWhile their reseeding ability may save you time and money, bush sunflowers may out-compete other plants and invade spaces where they aren’t wanted. They also don’t look appealing during their late summer and fall dormancy. This shrub does best in sunny yards where temperatures won’t drop below freezing.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 ⅗ to 5 feet tall, 3 to 7 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates a wide variety of soils, including sodic soil; does best when pH is between 6 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_5965186545_e6a73bf093_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: chuck b. / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nYou can find this flower all over California, right up to the Oregon and Mexican borders. It naturally grows on the coast and all over the foothills. In Southern California, it often grows near water sources to counteract the dry climate. California fuchsia produces red flowers in summer and fall, then dies back in winter.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to attract hummingbirds, this plant is a must-have. Their affinity for the plant has earned it the alternate names hummingbird trumpet or flower. It’s easy to grow, reseeds itself, and flowers profusely in full sun. It’s also included on some fire-resistant plant lists.
\n\n\n\nUnless it is near a natural water source, California fuchsia will need more supplemental water inland than on the coast. Water it around once a month to keep it hydrated. This herb’s appearance will suffer somewhat in fall or winter when flowering is over. You can improve its appearance by cutting it back when flowering is over.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: ¼ to 1 ½ feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Winter semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay and sand with a pH between 6 and 8; they also tolerate serpentine soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/California-milkweed-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe Decruyenaere / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nNamed for its white sap, the California milkweed is an herbaceous plant found from the East Bay down and in the Sierra foothills. It has white wooly stems, and its fuzzy buds burst into star-shaped flowers.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia milkweed’s most important role is hosting endangered monarch butterflies and caterpillars. As a result, avoid pesticides to keep these butterflies safe. California milkweed also attracts bees and other insects. This plant can tolerate sandy, clay, dry, or moist soils and is cold-hardy as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Water it deeply twice a month to keep it healthy.
\n\n\n\nThe Kawaiisu tribes cooked California milkweed sap to create a gum-like candy and roasted the leaves for chewing. Though it is edible to humans when cooked, it may be toxic raw. It’s safest to keep this plant away from children, pets, and livestock.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy or clay with a pH between 6 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic raw, but not when cooked
\n\n\n\n![\"This](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/California-Poppy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: docentjoyce / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nIt’s no surprise the state flower made it onto this list. The California poppy grows all over the state and in neighboring states as well, including Oregon. Its appearance varies slightly depending on location, with SoCal poppies more yellow than orange. The flowers can bloom any time between February and September, though they shut in cold, cloudy, or windy weather.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia poppies can tolerate poor-quality soil, full sun, partial shade, and drought. They will do best in well-drained sandy soils. Water twice a month once established. This flower makes a welcome addition to butterfly, bee, or bird gardens. Its quick-growing and self-seeding nature may spread it more than you intended but can create a beautiful meadow in your yard.
\n\n\n\nThough California poppies will generally last for years, they may burn out quicker in the hottest and coldest parts of Southern California. Poppies aren’t safe for pets or small children to eat due to their mild toxicity.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb or flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 inches to 2 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial in mild climates and annual in harsh conditions
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained sandy soils with a pH between 5 and 8; tolerates poor soil quality
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Mildly toxic if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"small](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/California-sagebrush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Antandrus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDo you love aromatic plants? The hairy, light green leaves of the California sagebrush release a pleasant smell when touched. It produces small, inconspicuous creamy white flowers. This shrub is also called Coastal sagebrush due to its prominence along the California coastline.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia sagebrush is tough, easy to grow, and drought-tolerant. It can survive in the driest, sunniest areas where other plants can’t. It may not need any supplementary water, but you can water it once a month if needed. Use it as a garden shrub or a groundcover. You also can plant it to attract California gnatcatchers, quails, and many other birds and insects.
\n\n\n\nThis shrub poses no known danger to humans or animals. However, rain may leach toxins from California sagebrush and discourage other plant growth nearby.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, sandy soils with a pH of 5 to 8; tolerates low fertility and clay soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Extremely low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Some toxicity toward other plants, but no known danger to humans or pets
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chalk-Dudleya.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re a fan of succulents, consider chalk dudleya. You also may know it by the names chalk liveforever or chalk lettuce. It naturally grows in rocky coastal areas, desert foothills, and inland mountains. Its thick, water-dense leaves are pale green with pointy ends. Though its shape may look flower-like, the real flowers will develop on tall stems in spring.
\n\n\n\nThis succulent relies on hummingbirds and bees for pollination. When mature, it can handle extreme heat and below-freezing temperatures. Chalk dudleya does well in full sun, but south-facing specimens benefit from partial shade. Don’t panic if the outer leaves turn white, tan, pink, or purple. As long as the inside looks alive, it’s likely just dormant. Water it once a month to improve its appearance.
\n\n\n\nChalk dudleya is easy to grow on rocky slopes and walls but not when planted on flat ground because it collects too much water. Watch out for aphid infestations, as they could cause deformity.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb or succulent
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: ⅓ to 1 foot tall and 1 foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Fast or medium-drained soils with plenty of rocks and a soil pH between 5 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Checker-Bloom.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe checker bloom is a type of mallow found all over the state. It primarily grows in dry, open flats between sea level and 7,500 feet elevation. This plant has bright green leaves and produces dark pink flowers in spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nChecker bloom is suitable for ornamental and pollinator gardens. You also can use it as a groundcover. It needs little water and can get by with water once a month or less in summer. You can plant it in a variety of soil types in sunny or partially shady yards.
\n\n\n\nMild, damp winters and dry, cool summers best suit this plant. However, it can survive in temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a colder part of SoCal, you can use mulch to protect checker bloom from freezing temperatures. Because of its short stature, you’ll need to place it in front of tall plants so it’s not obscured.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: ⅓ to 1 ½ feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates many soil types with a pH between 6 and 7, including serpentine soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and edible
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cleveland-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Phyzome / Flickr / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDespite what the name implies, Cleveland sage is native to the Golden State. It is also called blue sage, fragrant sage, or chaparral sage. Its natural habitat is well-drained flats, bluffs, and gentle slopes in coastal areas. This aromatic shrub is gray-green in color with small, wrinkled leaves. It produces round purple flower clusters in spring and summer. Flower color varies between cultivars.
\n\n\n\nCleveland sage is a great choice for hummingbird and bee gardens. It’s not just useful for animals — dry its fragrant leaves for cooking or just to enjoy the scent. This shrub can handle many soil types and temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant it as an ornamental plant or for erosion control.
\n\n\n\nThis plant needs very little irrigation. While this trait is generally beneficial, it’s possible to overwater Cleveland sage in summer, killing it or shortening its lifespan.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 to 4 ½ feet tall and 8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates a variety of soils but does best in well-drained soils with a pH between 6 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Hummingbird-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jerry Kirkhart / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHummingbird sage is native to Central and Southern California. It grows anywhere between sea level and 2,000 feet but is mostly found on shady slopes, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub. This plant has a woody base and is covered with soft hairs. It produces fragrant magenta flowers from March to May. Its leaves also are aromatic when crushed.
\n\n\n\nHummingbird sage is valued for its appearance and scent. Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies flock to its flowers as a food source. Because of its sprawling growth habit, you can use it as a groundcover. It can handle sun or shade but does particularly well under dense tree cover. Hummingbird sage can handle temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nThis plant is drought-tolerant and may not need supplemental irrigation after its first year. However, it may lose some leaves and visual appeal in summer. Water hummingbird sage once or twice a month to keep it green in hot weather, and prune it if you want a neater appearance.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 inches to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, or full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Various soils with a pH between 5 and 7
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bush-Monkey-Flower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nMonkeys may not be native to California, but monkey flowers are. The bush monkey flower grows throughout most of California. It’s also called sticky monkey flower due to its sticky green leaves. Its tubular flowers are typically orange but also may be white, yellow, or red. If you or a pollinator touch the flower’s stigma, it will shut.
\n\n\n\nBush monkey flowers will attract hummingbirds, bees, and other insects. The leaves and flowers are edible, and Native Americans used them for medicinal purposes. Once established, water it once or twice a month in summer.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to increase flower production and get rid of unappealing faded blooms, prune the old growth and seedheads. Be careful not to cut off buds in the process.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 5 feet tall and 5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates many soil types, including serpentine soils, as long as drainage is adequate; ideal pH is between 5 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and edible
\n\n\n\nPeople from out of state may only see SoCal as sunny coastlines, but residents know there’s more to it. A Southern Californian may live by the beach, mountains, or desert, and each will have its own gardening challenges. Focus on plants that fall in your USDA hardiness zone, which is based on average annual low temperatures. SoCal falls in zones 7 through 10.
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zones can’t tell you everything. They don’t account for your yard’s layout, soil makeup, shade levels, and proximity to water sources. Consider getting a soil test, especially if your garden plants have struggled in the past. University of California Cooperative Extensions can connect you with local soil testing labs.
\n\n\n\nThe final factor to consider is you. Consider what features you value, whether it be visual appeal, scent, drought tolerance, safety, or practicality.
\n\n\n\nFor erosion control or bank stabilization, consider planting bush sunflower or Cleveland sage.
Yes. Chalk dudleya is one of the best choices for SoCal, but there are hundreds of other succulents native to the state.
It depends on where you are and which succulents you plant. Southern California generally has mild winters. While some cities may never see a day below 40 degrees, a few places in SoCal have temperatures below freezing and could get as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some succulents, like chalk dudleya, can survive freezing temperatures. However, others are more sensitive and may not survive a cold snap. If you see an unusual temperature drop on your weather channel or app, you can take in any potted succulents, just in case.
Keep in mind that your succulents will get more rain in winter as well. Don’t water them yourself this time of year, and make sure they are in well-drained soil.
It’s easy enough to swing by your local nursery for one or two native plants. However, some homeowners choose to transform their yards into entirely native gardens. They also might replace their lawn with a more suitable turfgrass for improved drought resistance.
The more changes you make, the more time you’ll need to commit. Even the most passionate green thumb may need a helping hand. Wikilawn can connect you with landscaping and lawn care professionals in your area, whether you live in San Diego, Los Angeles, Long Beach, or another SoCal city.
Main Image Credit: Epibase / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Southern California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.2698412698412698,"src":"/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/1789c/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/107df/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/293e9/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/f2cbb/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/1789c/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/c26c2/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/1dd6e/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/67b76/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 320w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/8df11/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 500w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/98a65/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 800w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/1dd6e/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 960w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/3cc96/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Southern California | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best native plants for Southern California include shrubs, wildflowers, and succulents that survive heat, drought, and cold snaps."}}},{"node":{"id":"4b313a94-ef05-5d02-9334-06d741cf5a10","slug":"best-native-plants-california","path":"/lawn-care/ca/best-native-plants-california/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"Humans and plants alike love sunny California. But what plants like the Golden State best? Your garden will thrive if you use native plants instead of non-native plants. Vegetation originating in this state is more likely to be Different plants will do well in different parts of the state. For example, a plant that thrives […]
\n","content":"\nHumans and plants alike love sunny California. But what plants like the Golden State best? Your garden will thrive if you use native plants instead of non-native plants. Vegetation originating in this state is more likely to be
\n\n\n\nDifferent plants will do well in different parts of the state. For example, a plant that thrives in Northern California may not do well in the Southern California heat. Many plants that grow on the coast won’t do well inland, and vice versa. Let’s review the best native plants for California, including what areas they’re best suited for.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nThis state is home to thousands of plants. Out of those, we’ve selected some popular choices that work for many different areas. Make sure to double-check whether each plant you’re interested in grows well in your city.
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/California-Buckwheat.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jarek Tuszyński / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you live in Southern or coastal California, consider California buckwheat. This plant grows on scrubby slopes, chaparral biomes, and dry washes. Its structure tends to be more compact in coastal areas and spread out in foothills. You can use some varieties as groundcovers. It produces clusters of leaves and small pink and white flowers from spring to fall.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia buckwheat attracts honey bees, butterflies, and other wildlife. It will shed its flowers and some (but not all) leaves in the dry season, creating a natural mulch. It’s low-maintenance and requires little irrigation once established. California buckwheat may also prevent erosion.
\n\n\n\nThis plant isn’t common in most of Northern California and the Central Valley. It isn’t suited for poorly-drained soils or temperatures below 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 6 feet tall and 3 feet across
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loamy, well-drained soils with a pH between 5 and 8.5
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Extremely low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: chuck b. / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as hummingbird flower or trumpet, the California fuchsia is found in foothills and coastal areas throughout the state. This plant is less common in the central valley and desert regions. It naturally grows near creeks and springs. Use it in gardens or as a ground cover.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia fuchsia produces bright red flowers from summer to fall that attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and moths. Their late summer blooms are particularly notable since many plants are past their peak by then. This species is easy to grow and able to reseed itself. It is also featured on many fire-resistant plant lists.
\n\n\n\nThough California fuchsia requires little supplemental water in the north, it will need some irrigation in southern and inland areas unless it is close to a wet area. If you live inland or in SoCal, water once a month to keep it alive. The plant may look less aesthetically pleasing once flowering is done in fall or winter. Cut back after the flowering season to improve its health and appearance in spring.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: ¼ to 1 ½ feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Winter semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay and sand with a pH between 6 and 8; they also tolerate serpentine soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Epibase / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMost California residents have beheld the beauty of the California poppy, the state’s flower. You can find them in fields all over the state, excluding altitudes above 6,500 feet. They have pale green foliage and orange or yellow flowers. California poppies bloom between February and September, though they close at night and during cold, windy, or cloudy weather.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia poppies are fast-growing and drought-tolerant. Water them twice a month at most in summer to keep them healthy and extend their blooming season. These flowers attract pollinators, birds, and small herbivores. You can easily collect and plant the seeds or let the flowers reseed naturally.
\n\n\n\nThough they have a long flowering period, they may bloom less in areas with extreme weather. California poppies are edible yet mildly toxic, depending on the consumer, amount, part eaten, and time of year. As a result, there may be better choices for parents and pet owners. Poppies can become a weed due to their rapid growth.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb or flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 inches to 2 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial in mild climates and annual in harsh conditions
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained sandy soils; tolerates poor soil quality
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Mildly toxic if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/California-Sagebrush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NatureShutterbug / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe California or coastal sagebrush is an aromatic shrub found on the coast and foothills. The branches spread out from the base of the plant, creating a round shape. Some varieties work as groundcovers. The leaves are thin, branching, and grayish-green in color. It produces white or yellow flower clusters in spring, summer, and fall.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia sagebrush attracts the California gnatcatcher, a threatened bird species that eats small insects. The plant also appeals to quails, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. This fast-growing shrub grows in dry areas where other plants perish and only needs water once a month in summer. Use it for erosion control on sloped properties.
\n\n\n\nThe Cahuilla and Chumash Native Americans historically used California sagebrush as medicine. Though there are no reported dangers for humans, toxins in the plant leech out during the rain and prevent other plants from growing below it. California sagebrush doesn’t tolerate temperatures lower than 20 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s best for coastal or Southern California.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, sandy soils with a pH of 5 to 8; tolerates low fertility and clay soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Extremely low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Some toxicity towards other plants, but no known danger to humans or pets
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jitaeri / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThis plant has a dozen different names, including thousand-leaf and plumajillo. It naturally grows in the grasslands and open forests of Northern, Central, and Coastal Southern California. Common yarrow actively grows in spring and produces white or yellow flower clusters from mid to late spring.
\n\n\n\nButterflies, bees, and other insects are drawn to this fragrant plant. It’s easy to grow and needs water once a week at most in summer. Common yarrow tolerates sun and shade, making it a good fit for many yards. It can also survive temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit. Use it for erosion control or as a ground cover.
\n\n\n\nBecause it reseeds itself easily, common yarrow can spread aggressively. Native Americans used it to stop bleeding, reduce fever, and lessen pain. However, be aware that it is toxic to animals and can cause photosensitivity and rashes in humans.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 3 feet tall and ½ to 1 ½ feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen, summer deciduous, summer semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, or full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Any as long as it’s not excessively moist; ideal pH is between 4 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to animals; may cause rashes or photosensitivity in humans
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Jerry Kirkhart / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHummingbird sage has upright stems that produce magenta flowers. It blooms from March to May. Its bright green leaves are slightly hairy and produce a pleasant aroma when touched or crushed. The plant is native to Southern and Central California, primarily along the coast and foothills. Cultivars include ‘Topanga’ and ‘Sunrise.’
\n\n\n\nYou guessed it — this plant is great for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Hummingbird sage is a popular choice for gardens and groundcovers. It tolerates anything from full sun to full shade. You likely won’t need to water it at all in summer, though it may lose some leaves. Irrigate hummingbird sage a few times a month to keep it green all year.
\n\n\n\nKeep in mind that without its tall flower stalks, it will look shorter outside of the flowering season. Hummingbird sage has a limited range compared to other plants on this list. It does best in the coastal areas between the Monterey Peninsula and Carlsbad. It may also do well in some parts of the Bay Area, including the peninsula, San Francisco, East Bay, and North Bay.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 inches to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, or full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Various soils with a pH between 5 and 7
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Big-Berry-Manzanita-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThere are several types of manzanita in California, but one of the most popular ones is the big berry manzanita. This shrub grows from the Bay Area down to the border on rocky slopes, flats, desert transition areas, and woodlands. It has light green waxy leaves. Clusters of white or pink bell-shaped flowers bloom in winter and spring. Its berries are the largest of any manzanita.
\n\n\n\nBig berry manzanita flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Other birds eat the round red fruits the shrub produces. Humans can also eat these berries. This shrub is drought tolerant almost to a fault. Water it around once a month once established, but be careful — direct water could kill the plant. Big berry manzanita is generally easy to grow but will be more difficult in dry areas like SoCal.
\n\n\n\nThis shrub has an unusual lifecycle. Not only can it live 100 years, but it won’t produce fruit until 20 years in. Even stranger, its seeds won’t germinate unless exposed to fire or sulfuric acid. The easiest way to propagate this plant is from cuttings. Plant it on rocky slopes, but avoid any south-facing slopes in dry areas because it gets too warm. Big berry manzanita is susceptible to leaf galls, though they aren’t severe.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub or small tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 ⅓ to 20 feet tall and 6 to 20 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Fast or medium-draining soils with a pH between 6 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"purpled](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Showy-Penstemon-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis plant is primarily found in Southern California’s chaparral, scrub, and woodlands. Its leaves grow in pairs on opposite sides of the stem. Within its first year, showy penstemon produces clusters of bluish-purple trumpet-shaped flowers that hummingbirds and wasps pollinate. It flowers in winter and spring.
\n\n\n\nShowy penstemon is quick-growing and easy to care for. Though it has a relatively short lifespan of five to ten years, its reseeding ability will allow new plants to pop up in your garden. It can handle a variety of soil textures.
\n\n\n\nThe amount of water needed depends on how well the soil retains water. If it retains water well, you may not need to supplement irrigation. You can water showy penstemon once a month for improved flowering, but it may shorten its lifespan. Plant it on a slight slope for improved drainage.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 4 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained rocky, loamy, sandy, or clay soils with a pH between 6 and 7.5
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: No known danger
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/plant-fruit-berry-flower-food-red-443747-pxhere.com-1-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nAlso known as Christmas berry or California holly, this shrub is reportedly the namesake of Hollywood. It’s most at home in Western California and the Sierra foothills. It produces small white flower bunches in early summer that release a pleasant smell and attract butterflies and other insects. The red berries produced afterward feed birds and mammals.
\n\n\n\nToyon is drought-tolerant and easy to grow. It tolerates more water than other chaparral shrubs and does well near water sources or irrigated areas. The farther south you live, the more they benefit from shade. If you live in a colder part of California, they will tolerate temperatures as low as -5 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant is sometimes used for erosion control.
\n\n\n\nToyon berries are edible to humans. However, the unripe berries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can become cyanide if consumed, similar to apple seeds. Cooking the berries is the safest way to consume them. This plant may not be the best choice for pet owners and parents unless you can supervise their activity carefully.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6 to 30 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, sand, and serpentine soils with a pH between 5 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Extremely low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Edible but poisonous when unripe
\n\n\n\nMountains, deserts, beaches — California has it all. The variety of climates and geographical differences mean a native plant that does well in Southern California might not do well in Northern California. Before choosing a plant, confirm its suitability for your area. USDA hardiness zones are an excellent way to narrow down your choices. California contains zones 6 through 10.
\n\n\n\nEven within the same city, you may notice differences between your yard and other properties. The soil composition, slope, sun or shade, and presence of water sources can all make conditions more or less favorable. The University of California Cooperative Extensions can recommend commercial soil testing labs to check for pH and nutrient levels.
\n\n\n\nDon’t forget your garden goals. Do you want sweet-smelling wildflowers to attract bees and butterflies? Do you want to minimize water usage and fire risk? California is home to so many native plants that you should be able to find whatever you’re looking for.
\n\n\n\nMost California native species are adapted to low-water conditions. However, the following plants are especially drought-resistant:
● California buckwheat
● California sagebrush
● Toyon
If you need to stabilize a bank or reduce the risk of erosion, consider:
● California buckwheat
● California sagebrush
● Common yarrow
● Toyon
Yes. The California Native Plant Society has information on thousands of plant species native to the state. You can sort by a variety of factors to find what you need.
The safest plants for kids and pets won’t have spikes and aren’t poisonous when consumed. Of the plants we’re discussed, the following species don’t pose any known threat to humans or animals:
● California buckwheat
● California fuschia
● Hummingbird sage
● Big berry manzanita
● Showy penstemon
It takes time and effort to build a native garden. You’ll need to acquire the plants once you narrow your options by location and personal preference. You also can switch to a more suitable turfgrass to make your landscaping more drought-resistant.
\n\n\n\nA new plant here and there is manageable enough, but a complete yard transformation may be too much to handle with limited free time. Let Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company. These pros can help homeowners in Los Angeles, Fresno, San Francisco, and many other cities.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Joe Decruyenaere / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"9 Best Native Plants for California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/1789c/Showy-Penstemon.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/107df/Showy-Penstemon.jpg 320w,\n/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/293e9/Showy-Penstemon.jpg 500w,\n/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/f2cbb/Showy-Penstemon.jpg 800w,\n/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/1789c/Showy-Penstemon.jpg 960w,\n/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/c26c2/Showy-Penstemon.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/1dd6e/Showy-Penstemon.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/67b76/Showy-Penstemon.webp 320w,\n/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/8df11/Showy-Penstemon.webp 500w,\n/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/98a65/Showy-Penstemon.webp 800w,\n/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/1dd6e/Showy-Penstemon.webp 960w,\n/static/c19647d56435aaf72efcf68953b13c93/3cc96/Showy-Penstemon.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Best Native Plants for California | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best native plants for California vary by what part of the state you live in. They include flowers, shrubs, and groundcovers."}}},{"node":{"id":"1b014bac-5927-53f1-82b6-a11cf2f1aba3","slug":"best-grass-types-mississippi","path":"/lawn-care/ms/best-grass-types-mississippi/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Andie Ioó is a writer for LawnStarter. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, sports, and trying out new healthy recipes. She also loves reading and watching reruns of classic '90s TV shows.","name":"Andie Ioo","id":"00424d9e-71f7-5a65-a764-eb85c6210e90","path":"/author/andie-ioo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c7090b8e789516e6df2e9bd1a57a1ece?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"690c1e77-e03d-574f-811e-b355bf8606f1","name":"Mississippi","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ms/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"Mississippi’s diverse climate allows for both warm-season and cool-season grasses to grow, though high rainfall and hot temperatures sometimes hinder the successful growth of a lush lawn. Despite these challenges, agriculture has been successful in Mississippi for centuries thanks to its naturally fertile soils. Whether you choose a warm-season or cool-season grass for your landscape […]
\n","content":"\nMississippi’s diverse climate allows for both warm-season and cool-season grasses to grow, though high rainfall and hot temperatures sometimes hinder the successful growth of a lush lawn. Despite these challenges, agriculture has been successful in Mississippi for centuries thanks to its naturally fertile soils.
\n\n\n\nWhether you choose a warm-season or cool-season grass for your landscape depends on many factors. Our guide will tell you everything you need to know about choosing the best cultivar. Read on to discover the 7 best grass types for Mississippi.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nIf you’re new to lawn care, distinguishing between cool-season and warm-season grasses can be challenging. Although many maintenance tips apply to both types, they have their share of differences.
\n\n\n\nNorthern Mississippi is in the transition zone, experiencing both hot summers and cold winters. Both cool-season and warm-season grass types grow well in these regions. In the rest of the Magnolia State, warm-season cultivars dominate.
\n\n\n\nEvery homeowner should know when their grass grows, when it goes dormant, and how it handles climate conditions. Whether you select a cool-season or warm-season grass depends on your preferences, location, and the characteristics of your landscape. Consider the unique traits of different grass types:
\n\n\n\nBottom line: Plant warm-season grasses in late spring or early summer, and stick to sowing cool-season varieties in the fall.
\n\n\n\nThe following grass types adapt to the climatic and soil conditions of Mississippi:
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass, also known as Bahama grass or dog’s tooth grass, is an excellent choice for many parts of the South, including Mississippi. It is quick-growing and thrives in most soil types. Bermudagrass is drought, humidity, and salt-tolerant and grows best in full sun.
\n\n\n\nThis warm-season cultivar stands up to heavy foot traffic, recovers quickly, and is disease resistant. Bermudagrass is relatively high-maintenance, requiring weekly fertilization and watering during the spring growing season.
\n\n\n\nCommon bermudagrass is coarser in texture, though hybrid cultivars can create a more fine-textured, albeit high-maintenance, lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and is able to outcompete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns. Tolerant of most soil types
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carpetgrass.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Sugeesh / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nCarpetgrass likes tropical climates, moist, fertile soils, and full sun but can easily thrive in partial shade. In fact, experts recommend planting carpetgrass in Mississippi landscapes with large shade trees.
\n\n\n\nCarpetgrass thrives on one inch of water per week. It is a low-maintenance and adaptable grass with a coarse texture that creates a dense, light-to-medium green lawn. It is high-maintenance like bermudagrass and requires regular mowing.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow weekly to control seed heads
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Large patch is common
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Infertile, moist but not waterlogged, acidic, sandy
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Usually established by seed. Flourishes in warm and humid conditions along the Gulf Coast. Does not thrive in arid climates.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nThough slow-growing, centipedegrass is a Mississippi favorite. This medium-textured grass has bright green leaves and a dense growth habit. It is low-maintenance and disease and pest-resistant. Cultivars grow well in partial shade but prefer full sun.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass isn’t exceptionally drought-tolerant and requires sandy, limestone soils for steady growth. It prefers acidic soils with a pH below 7.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; doesn’t tolerate heavy traffic; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a drought and heat-tolerant warm-season grass that blooms in May. It prefers full sun and sandy, well-drained soils. It is more cold and shade-resistant than other warm-season cultivars thanks to a deep root system. Cultivars can hold their own against drought, heavy foot traffic, and weeds.
\n\n\n\nThis slow-growing, dark-green turfgrass produces a dense lawn that needs to be cut with sharp mower blades. Insects have a hard time invading zoysiagrass thanks to its thick blades and growth habit.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Not prone to disease and insects; good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a popular cool-season grass, well suited for the northern regions of Mississippi. It is easy to establish, has a coarse texture, and remains green during the cold months when warm-season varieties turn brown and go dormant.
\n\n\n\nTall Fescue is a bunch-type grass that grows most vigorously during spring and fall. It is adaptable but prefers fertile, well-drained, clay soils. Cultivars require regular irrigation during the summer months. Tall fescue loves the sun but tolerates moderate shade.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Tillers (Bunch forming)
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate – doesn’t recover easily from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations, as many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side.)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate – can be susceptible to brown patch, leaf spot, seedling disease, cutworms, armyworms, grubs, and sod webworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in most soil types but prefers clay soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Fertilize it only once in September and November. To restore the lushness of your lawn and address thinning and patchy areas, it is recommended to sow new grass seeds every few years.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a high-maintenance, high-quality turfgrass with deep roots that rely on regular watering and fertilization. Kentucky bluegrass recovers quickly from injury, so active kids and pets running around won’t be a problem, and its beautiful bluish-green color increases curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nCultivars form a fine-textured, dense, carpet-like lawn, but take six months to thicken. While it grows best in the sun, it doesn’t tolerate high heat and drought unless it is well irrigated. Plank Kentucky bluegrass in northern Mississippi and Tennessee border regions.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate, but will survive by going dormant
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency; a high-maintenance grass
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, fertile
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Produces a dense lawn under ideal conditions; many of these traits (shade tolerance, drought resistance, etc.) vary widely by cultivar, with newer cultivars generally being hardier, more resistant to disease, etc.; mow taller in summer; most often mixed with other species, such as tall fescue, in home lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lolium_perenne_TK_2021-06-26_1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: T. Kebert / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is widely used throughout the U.S., but its application varies from region to region. Cultivars are commonly found in the northern regions of Mississippi, where cool and warm temperatures meet in the middle.
\n\n\n\nIt is a deep green-colored grass with a glossy texture and the highest traffic tolerance of any cool-season variety. Perennial ryegrass is often used around homes, schools, athletic fields, and parks.
\n\n\n\nThis rich, fine-textured grass wins major points for its fast germination rate, quick establishment, and disease resistance. While not as cold-hardy as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue, perennial ryegrass thrives in moderate summers and cool winters. It is important to note cultivars are usually mixed with other grass types like Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, or fine fescue to create a hardy and drought-tolerant lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low (summer dormancy in some areas)
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but poor recuperative ability
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing requirement, depending on cutting height (lower cutting heights require more frequent mowing)
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High, especially in areas with hot, humid summers
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, high fertility
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Most often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue in a cool-season mix; well known for its excellent striping ability, low mowing tolerance (reel mower fans, this one’s for you), and rapid germination rate (four to seven days). Needs moderate levels of fertilizer
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is preferred when it comes to heavy foot traffic in the Southern states.
Zoysiagrass is one of the easiest turfgrasses to maintain. It withstands drought and survives in poor soil conditions with little upkeep. It also stands up to diseases, pests, and weeds.
Perennial ryegrass and tall fescue are the best cool-season grass varieties for shaded lawns, while zoysiagrass is the most shade-tolerant warm-season cultivar.
When choosing a grass type for your lawn, consider sun exposure, soil type, watering capabilities, and maintenance needs.
\n\n\n\nThe grass type you select should match your needs and budget. Whether you pick bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, fine fescue, or any other cultivar, a well-maintained lawn is the difference between fab and drab. For additional inspiration, check out our guide detailing the best native plants for Mississippi.
\n\n\n\nFor a worry-free lawn care experience and a healthy outdoor space, let Wikilawn connect you with a local lawn care pro today. Our trusted experts are spread out across Jackson, Southaven, Olive Branch, Pearl, Ridgeland, and many other cities in the Magnolia State.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: ScottOldham / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"7 Best Grass Types for Mississippi","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.2396694214876034,"src":"/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/1789c/lawn-in-mississippi-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/107df/lawn-in-mississippi-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/293e9/lawn-in-mississippi-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/f2cbb/lawn-in-mississippi-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/1789c/lawn-in-mississippi-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/c26c2/lawn-in-mississippi-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/1dd6e/lawn-in-mississippi-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/67b76/lawn-in-mississippi-1.webp 320w,\n/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/8df11/lawn-in-mississippi-1.webp 500w,\n/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/98a65/lawn-in-mississippi-1.webp 800w,\n/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/1dd6e/lawn-in-mississippi-1.webp 960w,\n/static/bdcaf11226e03f7031d86441b0bbf7d6/3cc96/lawn-in-mississippi-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Best Grass Types for Mississippi | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"From bermudagrass to Kentucky bluegrass, choose one of the 7 best grass types for Mississippi’s humid, subtropical climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"5bfa6218-9b1f-5e1d-b7ed-f14cb685f0c7","slug":"drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-for-california","path":"/lawn-care/ca/drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-for-california/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"Drought is inevitable in California. We don’t have to like it, but we do have to live with it. However, you don’t have to watch your yard die (or your water bill climb) every summer. Adapt your yard to better survive hot, dry conditions, and your water bills and yard maintenance will drop off significantly. […]
\n","content":"\nDrought is inevitable in California. We don’t have to like it, but we do have to live with it. However, you don’t have to watch your yard die (or your water bill climb) every summer. Adapt your yard to better survive hot, dry conditions, and your water bills and yard maintenance will drop off significantly. Consider the following drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for California.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhether you need a simple first step or want to take drastic measures, the following strategies will reduce water usage. You can apply each drought-resistant landscaping tip on its own or in combination with others.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/poppy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: rhyman007 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhile it’s tempting to choose plants solely based on appearance, some plants have higher water needs than others. Focus on garden plants that have low water needs, such as succulents. You can also choose from a variety of other plant types, from trees to ornamental grasses.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia native plants are more likely to be drought-resistant than non-native plants. They also tend to be:
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to narrow your search by region, county, or city. For example, a plant native to Southern California may not do well in Northern California. Here are some drought-resistant California native plants to get you started:
\n\n\n\nKeep in mind that newly planted specimens will need more water than established plants. These increased water needs are why perennials are typically better than annuals.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rocky-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: IKALSEMI / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nPlants are often the focal point of gardens, but rocks deserve more credit. If you’re not convinced, check out the California Rock Garden at UC Davis or Dave’s Rock Garden in Encinitas. These gardens showcase rocks of various shapes, sizes, and colors alongside native plants.
\n\n\n\nIf you feel inspired, make your own rock garden. Choose neutral-toned or colorful rocks to suit your tastes, and arrange them in whatever patterns your heart desires. Styles can range from desert landscapes to zen gardens. You also can integrate rocks into a small part of your yard rather than the whole thing. Here are some elements you could include:
\n\n\n\nNote: While many rock gardens include water features, it’s not a very drought-friendly option. Consider dry ponds or riverbeds instead. You also could use a bird bath to keep visiting wildlife happy and hydrated.
\n\n\n\nRock gardens aren’t just an aesthetic choice. The rocks require no water or maintenance. They also suppress weeds and prevent garden plants from growing where you don’t want them to. Of course, you don’t have to forgo vegetation altogether. Some plants, such as chalk dudleya, grow better in rocky environments and require little irrigation to survive.
\n\n\n\n![\"Gardener](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mulchy-copy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: artursfoto / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhat is mulch? Mulch is organic or inorganic material spread over the ground, typically around plants. Examples include:
\n\n\n\nMulch plays many roles in landscaping, but how does it help with drought resistance? When applied over the soil, mulch can help retain moisture by preventing evaporation. You also can use it to cover large areas as an alternative to grass or groundcovers. When placed around plants, it will suppress weeds competing for water.
\n\n\n\n![\"Wireless](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rain-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Steven White’s Images / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhether or not your plants are drought-resistant, you may be overwatering. Many plants need less water than you expect to survive and can go dormant to survive dry conditions. The water also could be going to the wrong place entirely, where it is not accessible to the plants. Here are some steps to take to make sure your irrigation systems are water-wise:
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sarah Stierch / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to drought resistance, lawns have a bad reputation. 40% to 60% of landscape irrigation is used for turfgrass. You don’t necessarily have to give up your lawn entirely, but you should consider what you want out of your lawn and what alternatives could work just as well.
\n\n\n\nConsider how much lawn you need. Maybe your kids enjoy the backyard lawn, but the front yard lawn doesn’t get much use. You also may want to extend your patio a little further to better host guests. These are perfect opportunities to reduce your turf square footage and save water. Some counties, such as Los Angeles, offer rebates based on how much grass you remove.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to replace your lawn completely, consider these drought-tolerant alternatives:
\n\n\n\n*Artificial turf is not eligible for lawn removal rebates.
\n\n\n\n![\"Installing](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/hard-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: JPLDesigns / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nA hardscape is an artificial landscape design that doesn’t use plants. You can create patios, walkways, retaining walls, fire pits, or basketball courts. Here are some possible materials:
\n\n\n\nNo vegetation means no irrigation. However, permeable surfaces are the most drought-friendly way to go. They reduce runoff and allow water to seep into the soil to be used by nearby plants.
\n\n\n\n![\"xeriscape](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/xeri-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: remedypic / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIf several of these ideas have piqued your interest, consider a more radical redesign. A xeriscape landscape design requires little to no water or maintenance. Here are the fundamental principles, many of which we’ve covered in this article:
\n\n\n\nWhile each part of xeriscaping saves water, combining all of them makes this strategy the most effective.
\n\n\n\nThis landscape design is best for homeowners who want to remodel their yards and don’t mind the extra time and cost. It’s also suitable for currently empty yards or newly built homes.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia cities and counties often offer rebates for drought-tolerant landscaping, but you need to meet certain conditions. Possible requirements include:
●Removal of turfgrass (typically around 200 to 500 square feet at minimum)
●Installation of native or drought-tolerant plants
●Use of mulch and rocks
●Permeable hardscaping
●Pool removal
●Irrigation upgrades
●Stormwater retention systems
Check your local county rules for specific requirements and rebate programs. You will likely need to apply for these rebates before you start your project, or you may not be eligible. Artificial turf does not count toward these rebates.
As of 2022, turf replacement rebates are exempt from state income tax.
Often, the answer is yes. Hardscaping, rock gardens, and inorganic mulch (excluding rubber and landscape fabric) close to your home can help reduce the spread of fire. You must still be mindful of flammable materials near your home, such as wooden patio furniture. Choose non-flammable materials whenever possible.
Drought-tolerant plants are also beneficial because they tend to be less dry and flammable. However, no plant is entirely fireproof, and they must be well-hydrated to have the best chance of survival. Keep plants spaced out and far away from your house’s walls so the fire doesn’t have a direct route to your home.
The most drought-friendly grass types in California are:
●Zoysiagrass
●Buffalograss
●Bermudagrass
●Bentgrass
Some drought-tolerant changes are easy to make. A trip to your local native plant nursery or a DIY drip irrigation kit are projects some homeowners are happy to tackle.
However, large projects can take time and effort. A landscaping professional can simplify drought-resistant landscaping for you. Wikilawn can connect you to local pros in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and many other California cities.
Main Photo Credit: LookTarn / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"7 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1789c/bromeliad.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/107df/bromeliad.jpg 320w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/293e9/bromeliad.jpg 500w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/f2cbb/bromeliad.jpg 800w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1789c/bromeliad.jpg 960w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/c26c2/bromeliad.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1dd6e/bromeliad.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/67b76/bromeliad.webp 320w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/8df11/bromeliad.webp 500w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/98a65/bromeliad.webp 800w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1dd6e/bromeliad.webp 960w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/3cc96/bromeliad.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for California | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Drought-resistant landscaping ideas for California include low-water plants, smart irrigation, and inorganic features."}}},{"node":{"id":"274abf69-70f8-515f-ac9f-dd095a91ac4b","slug":"best-grass-types-maryland","path":"/lawn-care/md/best-grass-types-maryland/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Amy Adams is a freelance writer and former newspaper journalist. She grew up in Kansas but has been living in Florida for the past 15 years and has no intentions of ever moving back!","name":"Amy Adams","id":"eb80c67d-0627-5815-9dd0-304031dbe1be","path":"/author/amy-adams/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8e73c6ada90c41863cce7b93d142c7d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"2a5e33f9-ad47-575e-b414-2fa0c9049fd1","name":"Maryland","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/md/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"From the rolling hills of Western Maryland to Chesapeake Bay’s waterfront, Maryland has it all – mountains, forests, beaches, and so much more. But aside from the state’s natural beauty, our lawns also play a vital role in making our outdoor space more charming. Understanding the seven best grass types for Maryland is one way […]
\n","content":"\nFrom the rolling hills of Western Maryland to Chesapeake Bay’s waterfront, Maryland has it all – mountains, forests, beaches, and so much more. But aside from the state’s natural beauty, our lawns also play a vital role in making our outdoor space more charming.
\n\n\n\nUnderstanding the seven best grass types for Maryland is one way for homeowners to contribute to maintaining the state’s beauty. This way, you can choose a well-adapted grass type that can transform an ordinary lawn into a verdant retreat.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nLiving in Maryland has its positives and negatives when it comes to our landscaping. Being in a transition zone means we have hot summers and cold winters. We are far enough south to be able to grow warm-season grasses, and we are also far enough north that we can grow cool-season grasses as well.
\n\n\n\nLet’s differentiate between these two types of grasses:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses: You will mostly find these types of grasses in the southern states. They originated in the subtropics and like mild winters and hot summers. Warm-season grasses will be at their greenest with temperatures 80-95 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses: These grasses prefer cold winters and warm summers along with regular intervals of rain. They grow the most when temperatures are 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nWhile we may have more grass options than our neighbors to the north or south, establishing a yard can be very challenging since we don’t live in an optimal climate for either type of grass. But understanding the characteristics of these seven grasses can help you choose the best variety for your Maryland home.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a low-maintenance turf that doesn’t need much fertilizing, watering, or mowing, making it a fantastic option for homeowners who don’t have time to maintain their lawns. It can even go up to four weeks without rain before needing to be watered. However, it is prone to buildup and will need periodic dethatching.
\n\n\n\nThere are five major species of fine fescues:
\n\n\n\nAll five species are often sold as a blended seed mix for best results but also can be blended with Kentucky bluegrass and ryegrass. Of all the turfgrasses, fine fescue is the most shade tolerant – making it an excellent option if you have lots of trees, bushes, or ground coverings. It also likes difficult soils like clay, rocky, and sandy soils.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type (except for creeping red fescues, which possess rhizomes)
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers well-drained soil but tolerates infertile, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Often mixed with other cool-season grasses, especially in sun/shade mixes
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith a dark green boat-like shaped leaf, Kentucky bluegrass is the most widely used cool-season grass in the country. Despite its needy nature, the grass’s durability and fine to medium texture are the reasons it’s often used for home lawns, athletic fields, and golf courses.
\n\n\n\nA shallow root system is to blame for Kentucky bluegrass’s neediness as it doesn’t allow for easy water absorption. As a result, it calls for regular watering. It’s susceptible to disease and buildup that will require dethatching.
\n\n\n\nThis high-maintenance grass may not be suitable for all Maryland homeowners, but the reward is well worth it if you’re willing to put in the effort. Plus, this barefoot-friendly grass is durable enough for the kiddos and pets to run around and play sports.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate, but will survive by going dormant
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency; a high-maintenance grass
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, fertile
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Under optimal conditions, Kentucky bluegrass cultivars have the capacity to create a dense and lush lawn. The level of shade tolerance and drought resistance vary among different cultivars, but newer cultivars are hardier and tend to be more resistant to diseases. This grass is commonly mixed with other species, like tall fescue, to achieve desired characteristics and enhance overall lawn quality.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis versatile turf is used in residential yards, parks, playgrounds, and golf courses. Perennial ryegrass is a sharp-pointed, fine-textured, bright green grass with a leaf that folds at the bud. It can tolerate some shade but prefers to soak in the sun.
\n\n\n\nSince it germinates quickly, perennial ryegrass is often used in seed mixtures. However, it should not be more than 5-15% of the mixture due to its short life span and disease problems. For this reason, having a pure perennial ryegrass lawn is not a good idea due to its susceptibility to disease.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low (summer dormancy in some areas)
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High — but has a poor recuperative ability
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High — needs frequent watering; moderate mowing requirement, depending on cutting height (lower cutting heights require more frequent mowing)
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High, especially in areas with hot, humid summers
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, high fertility
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Most often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue in a cool-season mix; well known for its excellent striping ability, low mowing tolerance (reel mower fans, this one’s for you), and rapid germination rate (four to seven days). Needs moderate levels of fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA fast-growing versatile grass, tall fescue has an extensive root system, making it an excellent drought-resistant option. It has a medium to rough texture with a needle-like tip and is purple at the base of the stem. It grows the most during spring and fall while becoming semi-dormant during the hot, dry summer months.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue’s roots grow deeper than most other cool-season grasses, often 2 to 3 feet deep, allowing it to be tolerant of our hot Maryland summers. Its weather tolerance is also what allows it to maintain its deep green color much later into the season than other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nSummer stressors and bunch-type growth may cause thin growth patterns in a tall fescue yard resulting in a need to reseed your lawn annually.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate, but low ability to recuperate from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate – it has a fast rate of growth, so plan to mow often
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations. Many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side.)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate under proper management conditions
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low to moderate resistance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil but will tolerate a wider range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nOther notes: To address bare spots and thinning areas in your lawn, you should reseed every few years. Avoid planting outdated varieties like Kentucky-31 and opt for “turf-type” tall fescue (TTTF) instead. For the best chances of achieving a robust lawn, consider seed blends containing multiple TTTF cultivars.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bermudagrass\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Robert McPherson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith blades that fan horizontally, this fine-textured grass creates a soft, dense turf perfect for pets and children to run and play. Its fast-growing nature makes it resistant to weeds and other pests.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass loves the sun and high temperatures making it the perfect summertime grass for your Maryland yard. However, it does not tolerate cold temperatures well. Residents living in the northern parts of the state may want to consider cool-season grass instead.
\n\n\n\n
It can be a high-maintenance grass because it requires frequent mowing and fertilizing. But the beautiful carpet of green bermudagrass is well worth the time and effort.
Classification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high — due to its fast growth rate, you’ll have to mow it frequently; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance to disease, although leaf spot, brown patch, and dollar spot are common
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermudagrass displays aggressive spreading through its above-ground stolons and below-ground rhizomes, giving it a competitive edge against numerous weed species. However, this trait also can present challenges as it tends to become invasive. It frequently infiltrates flower beds through underground tunnels and extends its reach into adjacent lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bubble-on-St.-Augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis high-maintenance grass may not be the best option for some Maryland residents due to its lack of cold tolerance. However, St. Augustinegrass could be a great option for homeowners living along the Eastern shore, as it can be planted in sandy soils and has a high salt tolerance.
\n\n\n\nThis warm-season grass has a coarse, spongy texture with broad-rounded tips. And since St. Augustinegrass can be susceptible to insects and diseases, particularly fungi, homeowners should give it TLC and look out for any signs of distress.
\n\n\n\nIts fast-growing blue-green blades are quick to establish but will need lots of moisture, so be sure to water regularly. Also, St. Augustinegrass is not tolerant of heavy traffic, so you may want to consider another type of grass if you have children or pets that will often be playing in the yard.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate resistance
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-4.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach at the English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor the warmer southern regions of Maryland, Zoysiagrass may be a better alternative to the more traditional tall fescue typically seen throughout the state. As a warm-season grass, it will go dormant from fall through mid-May, but it can be planted in sandy soils.
\n\n\n\nOnce established, Zoysiagrass is more resistant to diseases. It’s also more drought tolerant, thanks to its deep roots. Its thick and dense growth will also help prevent weeds from poking through and taking up residency.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass blades are fine to medium texture and form a soft, cushiony yard perfect for youngsters and pets to run and play.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency (cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if the grass is in partial shade)
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate resistance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining soil, but some cultivars are more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This warm-season grass is moderately salt tolerant
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is your best bet for a shady lawn. They need a bare minimum of two hours of direct sunlight compared to the four hours tall fescues need. But remember, fine fescue does not handle heavy traffic well.
Tall fescue is the recommended grass for homeowners with a lawn that receives a minimum of four hours of direct sunlight each day.
Tall fescue (90-95%) with a mixture of Kentucky bluegrass (5-10%) is your best option for a high-traffic lawn.
Since we live in a transition zone, keeping a healthy landscape can be quite challenging. Knowing that Maryland falls into USDA zones 5b to 8a also can help you understand what you need to do for your lawn during the spring and fall months. This way, you can have a lawn that will have all your neighbors envying your yard.
\n\n\n\nWhether you live in Baltimore, Frederick, Ocean City, Annapolis, or other towns in Maryland, let us help you find a local lawn care pro who can help make your lawn look its best.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Old Treasury Building & Maryland State House / Bestbudbrian / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
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