{"componentChunkName":"component---src-templates-category-category-js","path":"/category/lawn-care/page/40/","result":{"pageContext":{"posts":[{"node":{"id":"23a5196c-babb-59dc-93b7-ab81576c02d1","slug":"best-grass-types-little-rock","path":"/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/best-grass-types-little-rock/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"31b8d887-3e55-503a-9ba9-8fac7d950ccf","name":"Arkansas","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"3f184524-ced0-581e-a7ce-1d315593ccbf","name":"Little Rock","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Little Rock is unique. Its climate is classified as subtropical, but the city experiences four distinct seasons with very short, cold winters. Named after an actual rock, “la Petite Roche” to the locals, the bustling metropolis has plenty of prime outdoor months with annual high temperatures averaging 73 degrees Fahrenheit and lows averaging 52 degrees [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Little Rock is unique. Its climate is classified as subtropical, but the city experiences four distinct seasons with very short, cold winters. Named after an actual rock, “la Petite Roche” to the locals, the bustling metropolis has plenty of prime outdoor months with annual high temperatures averaging 73 degrees Fahrenheit and lows averaging 52 degrees Fahrenheit. The best grass types for Little Rock need little water to survive the unique climate. Read on to discover four warm-season varieties suitable for your Little Rock landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#season\">Warm-Season vs. Cool-Season Grasses for Little Rock</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Rock\">4 Best Grass Types for Little Rock</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Bermudagrass\">Bermudagrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Augustinegrass\">St. Augustinegrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Zoysiagrass\">Zoysiagrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Centipedegrass\">Centipedegrass</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Types\">FAQ About Little Rock Grass Types</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Landscape\">Choose Plant and Grass Varieties for Your Little Rock Landscape</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"season\">Warm-Season vs. Cool-Season Grasses for Little Rock</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Like Goldilocks, Arkansas sits in the transition zone. This means summers are too hot for cool-season grass varieties and winters are too cold for warm-season grasses in most of the state, making it incredibly difficult to maintain your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>All types of grass are classified into one of two categories:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Warm-season grasses </strong>perform best in the southern half of the United States. They grow most actively in late spring and summer when temperatures are around 75 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cool-season grasses </strong>are well-suited to northern climates with cold winters and distinct seasons. They grow most actively in early spring and fall when temperatures are around 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Little Rock sits on the banks of the Arkansas River in the middle of the state. Cool-season grass varieties perform best in Northern Arkansas, making Little Rock best-suited for warm-season varieties.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Rock\">4 Best Grass Types for Little Rock</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The following warm-season grass types are perfectly suited for the climatic and soil conditions of Little Rock:</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bermudagrass\">1. Bermudagrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing lush green colored bermuda grass of a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12549\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.pexels.com/photo/focus-photography-of-green-bermuda-grass-949584/\" target=\"_blank\">Pexels</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bermudagrass is the most common Arkansas grass variety, and it is adapted to the entire state. It is an aggressive grass that recovers quickly from damage. The turfgrass is moderately cold-tolerant, hardy, and fine-textured. It withstands drought and heavy foot traffic, making it a versatile option for golf courses, athletic fields, and home lawns.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Little Rock is home to common and hybrid <a href=\"https://www.uaex.uada.edu/publications/PDF/FSA-6121.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">bermudagrass</a> varieties. Sun-loving common bermudagrass has a light green color and coarse texture, while hybrid cultivars have a finer texture and dark green appearance. Common bermudagrass requires less maintenance than hybrid varieties but is less dense with a more sparse appearance and lower disease resistance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons and rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Poor — needs full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance</strong>: High&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1-2 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Good resistance to disease; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests: </strong>Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, army worms, and sod webworms</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH</strong>: 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Tolerates most soil types</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Augustinegrass\">2. St. Augustinegrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of St Augustine Grass\" class=\"wp-image-12360\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1-768x511.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stenotaphrum_secundatum_variegatum_0zz.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">David J. Stang</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>St. Augustinegrass thrives in the Little Rock summers. It is dense with deep roots and the least winter-hardy of the warm-season grasses. Luckily, it performs well in centrally located Little Rock. It has high shade tolerance, is quick-growing, and is easy to establish. However, the dense turfgrass does not stand up well to heavy traffic or herbicides.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>St. Augustinegrass is blue-green and coarse-textured. It is hardy as far north as Little Rock. The most readily available cultivar is the common <a href=\"https://www.uaex.uada.edu/publications/pdf/FSA-6119.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">St. Augustinegrass</a>, and all cultivars are susceptible to disease and pests like chinch bugs.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Moderate to high mowing frequency</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests:</strong> High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, army worms, web worms, and grubs</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-7.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> 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</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Zoysiagrass\">3. Zoysiagrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of zoysia grass\" class=\"wp-image-12359\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/starr-environmental/24264641643\" target=\"_blank\">Forest and Kim Starr</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Zoysiagrass is used throughout Arkansas. This turfgrass tolerates drought, low mow heights, shade, heavy traffic, and even lower temperatures. It has low fertilization requirements and grows densely, blocking out weeds thanks to thick, stiff leaf blades.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Two cultivars of <a href=\"https://www.uaex.uada.edu/yard-garden/lawns/FSA-6122%20zoysiagrass.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zoysiagrass</a> are present in Little Rock, <em>Zoysia japonica </em>and <em>Zoysia matrella. </em>The attractive turfgrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. Arkansas cultivars are not prone to disease or insect infestation, but grow slowly.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons and rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Tolerates light to moderate shade&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1-2.5 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and leaf spot can occur</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests: </strong>Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, army worms, chinch bugs, and sod webworms</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type: </strong>Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Centipedegrass\">4. Centipedegrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of centipedegrass\" class=\"wp-image-12357\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Centipede_Grass.JPG\" target=\"_blank\">James Becwar</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC0 1.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Centipedegrass is slow-growing, making it a low-maintenance choice for Little Rock lawns. Cultivars require little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain lush and green. It handles shade better than bermudagrass, but the smooth, flat-bladed grass does not handle heavy traffic, cold, or herbicides well.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.uaex.uada.edu/publications/pdf/FSA-6120.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Centipedegrass</a> has a pronounced medium texture and light green color. This turfgrass prefers to be left alone and is prone to pests and disease when improperly maintained or over watered.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> Low to moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Low mowing frequency</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1.5-2 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests: </strong>Moderate; prone to ground pearl insects, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, and lawn caterpillars</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH: </strong>5-6</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type: </strong>Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; not a salt-tolerant grass</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Types\">FAQ About Little Rock Grass Types</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I grow cool-season grass in Little Rock?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No. While Arkansas lies in the transition zone, centrally located Little Rock is too warm to grow cool-season grasses. Cities in Northern Arkansas can grow tall fescue, a cool-season grass that tolerates heat better than other varieties.<br/>  <br/>   </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When should I plant grass seed?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You should plant your grass seed in May or June. This gives the seed plenty of time to germinate before the hot Little Rock summer. <br/>  <br/>   <br/>  </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the best grass type for a shady lawn?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">St. Augustinegrass is the most shade-friendly grass type for Little Rock.<br/>  <br/>  </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Landscape\">Choose Plant and Grass Varieties for Your Little Rock Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The best grass cultivars for Little Rock are warm-season varieties suited to Arkansas’ unique <a href=\"https://www.plantmaps.com/interactive-arkansas-usda-plant-zone-hardiness-map.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA zones</a>, 7b to 8a. All turfgrasses have their own characteristics and needs. Choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your grass comes together to help form your complete landscape. There are numerous landscaping options for Little Rock, and you can take advantage of the city’s four unique seasons. Be sure to check out our guides to help you keep your lawn healthy year-round:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Spring Lawn Care Tips for Little Rock</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Little Rock</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Conquer Arkansas’ humid climate. Contact a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/\">Little Rock lawn care pro</a> today to help you maintain a green and healthy lawn, so you have more free time outdoors.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Boone_House,_Little_Rock,_AR.JPG\" target=\"_blank\">Valis55</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Little Rock","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1789c/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/107df/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/293e9/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/f2cbb/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1789c/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/c26c2/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1dd6e/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/67b76/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/8df11/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/98a65/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1dd6e/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/3cc96/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Little Rock | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, drought-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Little Rock, and these four species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"7db317bf-6ab1-52ce-8258-7035af4cf725","slug":"best-grass-types-miami","path":"/lawn-care/fl/miami/best-grass-types-miami/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"529a6382-d2d9-58ab-b746-9f305ef45bd4","name":"Miami","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/miami/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>One thing is for sure: Miami is known for its beautiful beaches. Packed with non-stop nightlife, diverse cultural arts, and luxury shopping malls, it’s no surprise this colorful city is a resident’s dream. But thanks to Miami’s tropical monsoon climate, residents enjoy their backyards and water sports year-round. Show off a thick green lawn you [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>One thing is for sure: Miami is known for its beautiful beaches. Packed with non-stop nightlife, diverse cultural arts, and luxury shopping malls, it’s no surprise this colorful city is a resident’s dream. But thanks to Miami’s tropical monsoon climate, residents enjoy their backyards and water sports year-round. Show off a thick green lawn you are proud of with one of these five best grass types perfect for South Florida’s humid climate.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Miami\">5 Warm-Season Grasses for Miami</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Bermudagrass\">Bermudagrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Augustinegrass\">St. Augustinegrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Zoysiagrass\">Zoysiagrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Bahiagrass\">Bahiagrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Centipedegrass\">Centipedegrass</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Miami Grass Types</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Landscape\">Choose Plant and Grass Varieties for Your Miami Landscape</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Miami\">5 Warm-Season Grasses for Miami</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can always count on South Florida to be humid. The tropical climate is characterized by warm temperatures, frequent rain, and thunderstorms. With average winter temperatures in the mid-70s, Miami is best suited to warm-season grass varieties. These grass types grow best when temperatures hover between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, making them ideal for the southern United States.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bermudagrass\">1. Bermudagrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\" alt=\"lush green bermuda grass grown in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12264\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.pexels.com/photo/focus-photography-of-green-bermuda-grass-949584/\" target=\"_blank\">Pexels</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Miami’s tropical climate creates ideal conditions for weeds. <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/LH007\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bermudagrass</a> is a hardy, fine-textured variety with deep roots that make it resistant to heavy traffic, drought, and Florida weeds like goosegrass and buttonweed. The aggressive turfgrass recovers from damage quickly, making it an ideal choice for athletic fields, golf courses, and even home lawns.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bermudagrass is medium to dark green with a dense appearance. It establishes quickly, thrives in the sun, adapts to most soils, and is salt-tolerant.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons and rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Poor — needs full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance</strong>: High&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1-2 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Good resistance to disease; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests: </strong>Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, army worms, sod webworms, and nematodes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH</strong>: 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Tolerates most soil types</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Augustinegrass\">2. St. Augustinegrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass.jpg\" alt=\"bubble on saint augustine grass\" class=\"wp-image-12272\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/33193996@N07/3490563956/in/photostream/\" target=\"_blank\">Jay Morgan</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-ND 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Palmetto, to Miami it’s a giant bug and a cultivar of <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/LH010\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">St. Augustinegrass</a>. This dense, blue-green grass is the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass variety. It is easy to establish and quick-growing. Unfortunately, it does not stand up to heavy traffic and is susceptible to chinch bugs.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>St. Augstinegrass loves the warm, Florida weather and tolerates the salty air. It is coarse-textured but less dense than bermudagrass. Bitter Blue, a cultivar of St. Augustinegrass, is chinch bug resistant and popular in many areas.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Moderate to high mowing frequency</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests:</strong> High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, army worms, grubs, and nematodes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-7.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> 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</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Zoysiagrass\">3. Zoysiagrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass.jpg\" alt=\"lush green zoysia grass in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12273\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Emeraldzoysia1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Russbach</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/LH011\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zoysiagrass</a> is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. This hardy grass shares all of the popular characteristics of bermudagrass but is more shade-tolerant. Cultivars of zoysiagrass are superb choices for homes, athletic fields, and golf courses, standing up to heavy traffic, low mow heights, drought, cold, and shade.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>These grass varieties have low fertilization requirements and grow densely and slowly, blocking out weeds. Zoysiagrass is one of the lowest-maintenance South Florida grasses. It is salt-tolerant, disease-resistant, and not prone to insect infestation.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons and rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Tolerates light to moderate shade&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1-2.5 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and lead spot can occur</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests: </strong>Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, army worms, chinch bugs, sod webworms, and nematodes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type: </strong>Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bahiagrass\">4. Bahiagrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1.jpg\" alt=\"close up of beautiful bahia grass in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12263\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://flickr.com/photos/starr-environmental/24854989872\" target=\"_blank\">Forest and Kim Starr</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most South Floridians love the feel of sand between their toes, and the resilient variety <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/LH006\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bahiagrass</a> agrees. This grass loves sandy soil and is drought-resistant, thanks to deep roots. It grows slowly and requires less mowing than other varieties.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bahiagrass has a coarse texture and light-green color. It requires little fertilization and most Miami homeowners do not need supplemental irrigation for this variety to thrive. Unfortunately, it does not stand up to salt spray, heavy traffic, or shade.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Low — needs full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Growth rate is moderate to high, so plan to mow often during the growing season</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 3-4 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Low; dollar spot may occur</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests: </strong>Low; mole crickets may cause problems</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 5.5-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Tolerates most soils, does well in sandy loam</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> Bahiagrass is grown in the Gulf Coast and Southeastern U.S; does best in acidic soils — not the best grass if your soils are naturally alkaline; doesn’t tolerate saltwater</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Centipedegrass\">5. Centipedegrass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1.jpg\" alt=\"beautiful green centipede grass in lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12269\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Centipede_Grass.JPG\" target=\"_blank\">James Becwar</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://abe.ufl.edu/faculty/mdukes/turfgrass/centipedegrass.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Centipedegrass</a> is a low-maintenance and slow-growing cultivar, requiring little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain green. The light-green grass loves the sandy, acidic soils of South Florida, but the smooth, flat blades do not handle heavy traffic, shade, cold, or herbicides well. Centipedegrass is prone to pests and disease when overwatered.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> Low to moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Low mowing frequency</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1.5-2 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for pests: </strong>Moderate; prone to ground pearl insects, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, lawn caterpillars, and nematodes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH: </strong>5-6</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type: </strong>Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; not a salt-tolerant grass</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Miami Grass Types</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When does grass grow in Miami?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Warm-season grasses grow in temperatures as low as 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Miami’s tropical weather allows for year-round growth most years. <br/>  <br/>    </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When should I plant grass seed?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You should plant your grass seed between April and July. This gives the seed a full growing season before the cold winter. <br/>  <br/>    </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the signs of chinch bug infestation?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Chinch bugs love the sun. They are small and difficult to spot. Watch for yellow or brown patches in your lawn and contact a lawn care professional if you see signs of activity. In South Florida, chinch bugs love many grass types, including bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, and zoysiagrass. <br/> <br/> <br/>   </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Landscape\">Choose Plant and Grass Varieties for Your Miami Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>South Florida grass varieties thrive in warm weather, salty air, and sandy, acidic soil. Different varieties have different characteristics and needs, so choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your grass comes together with plants, flowers, and outdoor furniture to complete your home landscape. There are many <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/miami/hurricane-resistant-landscaping/\">hurricane-resistant landscaping</a> options available for Miami, so you can spend less time worrying about your yard and more time enjoying the pristine beaches before hurricane season rolls around. For even more low-maintenance plants, check out our list of the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/miami/best-native-plants-2/\">best native plants</a> that will thrive in the tropical climate.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>A tropical oasis is within reach so long as you provide the rum runner. Contact a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/miami/\">Miami lawn care pro</a> today to keep your lawn and landscaping green and chinch-bug-free.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Miami_Shores_FL_553_NE_101st_Street01.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Ebyabe</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Miami","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1789c/Miami-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/107df/Miami-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/293e9/Miami-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/f2cbb/Miami-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1789c/Miami-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/c26c2/Miami-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1dd6e/Miami-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/67b76/Miami-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/8df11/Miami-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/98a65/Miami-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1dd6e/Miami-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/3cc96/Miami-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Miami | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, salt-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Miami, and these five species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"8cd2fbfb-cdf3-5927-9a97-6f870a0a6439","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-tampa","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-tampa/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Gorski lives with her family in Texas. She has a degree in Professional Studies and a minor in marketing. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, and writing.","name":"Danielle Gorski","id":"7c21f4d6-aa31-5681-9530-3d69932d07c4","path":"/author/danielle-gorski/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d4dbd5997a7fe91daa87a0bd0839baff?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"dc593a91-bb7f-5961-b8a5-96bfdf119898","name":"Tampa","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/tampa/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Living on the Gulf Coast has nice benefits, like being able to visit the beach anytime you feel like it for a fun day of swimming and building sandcastles. The only problem is that living near the ocean leaves homes vulnerable to hurricane damage from flooding and high winds. You can never have a 100% [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Living on the Gulf Coast has nice benefits, like being able to visit the beach anytime you feel like it for a fun day of swimming and building sandcastles. The only problem is that living near the ocean leaves homes vulnerable to hurricane damage from flooding and high winds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can never have a 100% guarantee that your home will not suffer storm damage, but there are some hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for Tampa that will help protect your property.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#Tampa\">13 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tampa</a></strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Trees\">Plant Wind-Resistant Trees</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Lines\">Keep Trees Away from Buildings and Power Lines</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Together\">Group Trees Together</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Shrubs\">Trim Trees and Shrubs</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Trees\">Don’t Overwater Your Trees</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Plants\">Choose Salt-Tolerant Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Fencing\">Try Hurricane-Resistant Fencing</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Seawall\">Build a Seawall</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Mulch\">Use Soft Mulch</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Paths\">Clear Storm Drain Paths</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Inside\">Bring Yard Decorations Inside</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Gutters\">Clean Your Gutters</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#System\">Turn Off the Sprinkler System</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#Strikes\">Protect Your Tampa Home Before a Hurricane Strikes</a></strong></p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas</a></strong></p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#Help\">How a Professional Can Help</a></strong></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Tampa\">13 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tampa</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Trees\">1. Plant Wind-Resistant Trees</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wind-tolerant-trees.jpg\" alt=\"group of trees planted near to eachother\" class=\"wp-image-12721\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wind-tolerant-trees.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wind-tolerant-trees-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wind-tolerant-trees-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wind-tolerant-trees-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wind-tolerant-trees-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/82134796@N03/8981885395/\" target=\"_blank\">denisbin</a> / Flickr&nbsp;/&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to a <a href=\"https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2019/05/13/preparing-your-landscape-for-hurricane-season/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hurricane-resistant landscape</a>, it’s best to go native. For your landscaping, pick <a href=\"https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Floridia-friendly</a> plants that are acclimated to the local climate and weather.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2017/09/21/hurricane-recovery-wind-resistant-trees-for-home-business-and-park-landscaping/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hurricane-resistant trees</a> with sturdy trunks and deep-reaching roots are usually the best kind of trees to stand up to strong winds. If you have trees in your Tampa yard, they should be reliable, wind-resistant trees such as:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bald cypress</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crape myrtle</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dahoon holly</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gumbo limbo</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Holly</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Manila</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mexican fan palm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pindo palm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Podocarpus</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pygmy date palm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sabal palm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sand live oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seagrape</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Southern magnolia</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spruce pine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swamp chestnut oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sweetgum</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sycamore</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Trees to avoid:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Australian pine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bradford pear</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chinese elm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Laurel oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sand pine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water oak</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of wind-resistant trees:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Wind-resistant trees are less likely to blow over</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects from damage caused by falling trees</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Native Florida-friendly plants generally grow better with less lawn care and maintenance</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves money on having to replace or remove fallen trees</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Hiring a professional to plant a new tree costs about <strong>$150 to $1,850</strong>, depending on the size, age, and type of tree. A DIY job will cost less, though you will have to pay for the equipment needed for the job.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Lines\">2. Keep Trees Away from Buildings and Power Lines</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>“Location, location, location” is the motto when it comes to strategic real estate investments, but the principle applies to landscaping trees, as well. Picking the right spot to plant your tree isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about picking the safest and most practical location for your tree.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don’t plant a tree right next to your house. If a tree topples over in a storm, it might fall on top of your home and cause severe damage.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The same rule applies to planting trees near power lines. A falling tree might knock over power lines and create a dangerous electric hazard. Avoid this kind of crisis by planting trees a safe distance away from power lines. If your <a href=\"https://newlook.dteenergy.com/wps/wcm/connect/2a845f4b-fe54-4011-abe3-37ba876c6dfa/RecommendedDistanceGuide.pdf?MOD=AJPERES\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">tree</a> grows to over 20 feet tall at maturity, then it needs to be planted at least 20 feet away from power lines.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regularly inspect your trees for damage or illness, and remove any dead or dying trees, especially if they are near your home.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of keeping trees away from structures:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Reduces chances of home damage</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces chances of powerline damage</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves on damage costs</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces risk of injury</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> The size of a tree determines the size of the job, but generally transplanting a tree costs <strong>$229 to $5,440.</strong>. Tree removal prices range from <strong>$223 to $2,089</strong>.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Together\">3. Group Trees Together</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There’s safety in numbers, and when trees are clustered close together, they are more <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR173\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">wind-resistant</a> and less likely to topple over in hurricane-force winds. Generally it’s recommended to plant trees in groups of five or more.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It’s also better to have a mixture of different types of trees rather than planting a group of the same type of tree in the same cluster.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of grouping trees:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Increases tree wind-resistance</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves homeowners the cost of tree removal and replacement</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Tree prices range from <strong>$150 to $1,850</strong>, so budget accordingly for how many trees you need. Don’t forget to consider additional logistical costs, such as the extra trips it will take to transport multiple new trees from the store to your backyard.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Shrubs\">4. Trim Trees and Shrubs</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trim-Trees.jpg\" alt=\"image of trimming trees and shrubs\" class=\"wp-image-12722\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trim-Trees.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trim-Trees-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trim-Trees-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trim-Trees-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trim-Trees-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pixabay.com/vi/photos/k%c3%a9o-c%e1%ba%aft-c%c3%a2y-c%e1%ba%aft-h%c3%a0ng-r%c3%a0o-c%c3%a2y-cutter-4964455/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take care of your trees and they will take care of you. Trees are a great source of shade, natural beauty, and, depending on the type, delicious fruit. Without proper care and regular <a href=\"https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/woody/documents/ch_13_mw06.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pruning</a>, trees aren’t as resistant and durable in a storm. Keeping your trees regularly pruned helps prevent them from being tossed around in fierce hurricane winds. When it comes to pruning, look out for the three D’s: Diseased, damaged, and dead trees.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>When pruning, remember to thin the crowns of your trees. If the crown of a tree is too dense, rough winds can uproot the tree by pulling it right out of the ground.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shrubs aren’t as catastrophically destructive as trees, but loose branches from shrubs still cause plenty of problems on their own. Loose branches become dangerous projectiles in high speed winds or cause drainage blockage problems.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of tree and shrub trimming:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Pruned trees are sturdier and less likely to fall over during a storm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pruning means healthier, stronger trees</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decreases chances of branches being turned into dangerous projectiles</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects your home and car from being scratched or damaged by flying branches</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves money on removing or replacing fallen trees</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost: </strong>To get a professional to trim your tree, you are looking at <strong>$315 to $700</strong>. A hedge trimming costs approximately <strong>$57</strong> per hour, trimming a bush costs roughly <strong>$9</strong>, and tree trimming is often priced around<strong> $428 </strong>per tree. If you prefer to save money, you can trim your vegetation yourself.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Trees\">5. Don’t Overwater Your Trees</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s such a thing as too much of a good thing, and you might be giving your trees too much water. If you <a href=\"https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2022/07/22/overwatering-can-be-as-problematic-as-underwatering/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">overwater</a> trees, the roots will stay shallow because they don’t have any need to delve deeper into the soil in search of water when water is readily available near the surface.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trees with a shallow root system are more prone to getting uprooted when fierce storms and damaging winds blow through.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To help your tree develop deeper roots, water it less frequently. If the soil around your tree is still moist, wait a week or so until it dries out. Then when the ground by the tree roots is dry, you can water your tree again. When you do water, give your tree a good, long drink. Trees need a thorough watering every so often to ensure that they continue to grow roots deeper into the ground.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of not overwatering:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Deeper roots make your trees sturdier and more wind-resistant</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keeps your trees healthier so they’re less prone to disease</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use less water</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> This will actually be a cost-saving measure. If you water less frequently, you will be saving on your monthly water bill.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Plants\">6. Choose Salt-Tolerant Plants</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/31953982266_8871446f01_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ilex Opaca\" class=\"wp-image-61295\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">American Holly<br>Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/138014579@N08/31953982266\" target=\"_blank\">Plant Image Library</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hurricanes are tumultuous tempests that cause wild waves that send salty sea spray flying everywhere. Sometimes gusty winds blow salty seawater right into your yard.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To help your landscaping plants survive a storm, choose tough, <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/landscaping-for-specific-sites/salt-tolerant-plants.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">salt-tolerant plants</a> such as the ones listed below:</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Groundcovers and flowers:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Calendula</li>\n\n\n\n<li>American holly</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beach evening primrose</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beach sunflower</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blanket flower</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gopher apple</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Railroad vine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seaside goldenrod</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zinnia</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Grasses:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Fakahatchee grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Muhly grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sea oats</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Vines:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bougainvillea</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Trees and shrubs:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Agaves</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coontie</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Firebush</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hibiscus</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lantana</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Live oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Magnolia</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oleander</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pineapple guava</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sabal palm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saltbush</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saw palmetto</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Southern red cedar</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wild coffee</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wax myrtle</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yaupon</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yucca</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If a plant is not salt tolerant, salt will dry out the plant’s roots. This will hinder the plant from absorbing the water and nutrients it needs to survive, killing the plant.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of salt-tolerant plants:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Your plants are less likely to die from saltwater damage</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves on plant replacement costs from a damaged plant bed</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> To have your plant bed installed by a professional, service prices typically range around <strong>$585 to $3,300</strong>.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Fencing\">7. Install Hurricane-Resistant Fencing</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to dealing with gusty hurricane winds, you need a fence that allows air to flow through.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even a brand new wooden fence can be easily blown over in powerful high-speed winds if there aren’t gaps wide enough allowing wind to pass through. For this reason, sturdy wooden fences usually aren’t the best options for cities like Tampa. Instead, choose a slatted fencing material, such as:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Aluminum</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chain-link fence</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trellis style</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vinyl</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wire mesh</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wrought Iron fence</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Types of fencing to avoid:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Wood</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any type of solid privacy fence</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of hurricane-resistant fencing:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Fence is less likely to get knocked down</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helps save on fence replacement costs</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost: </strong>Prices depend on the type of fencing material, although usually fencing costs <strong>$7 to $51</strong> per linear foot. Chain link fences cost between <strong>$6 and $36</strong> per linear foot.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Seawall\">8. Build a Seawall</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live next to the ocean, you might need a seawall. A seawall helps prevent flooding and erosion of your property near the edge where the waves relentlessly batter your property.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Seawalls can be made out of several different materials:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Composite</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Concrete</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rocks</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vinyl</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Seawalls are designed to block out sea waves by holding them at bay so they don’t flood your property. This is especially important during a storm surge when the weather and waves are extra wild.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Materials to avoid:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Metal&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of building a seawall:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Prevents erosion of the property near the beach</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prevents flooding to your property and home</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Seawall prices range from <strong>$113 to $770</strong> per linear foot. Prices will vary depending on the scope of the project and the type of seawall material you choose.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mulch\">9. Use Soft Mulch</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soft-Mulch.jpg\" alt=\"closeup of soft mulch in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12725\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soft-Mulch.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soft-Mulch-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soft-Mulch-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soft-Mulch-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soft-Mulch-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/34093413@N06/3175185007/\" target=\"_blank\">pseudo obscure</a> /&nbsp;Flickr&nbsp;/&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you use <a href=\"https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/documents/sp617.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mulch</a> in your landscape, avoid hard or sharp mulches such as pea gravel or stone. When blown around by high-speed hurricane winds, mulch becomes dangerous projectiles that cause a lot of damage when they hit windows or batter the surface of your house or car.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Soft mulch is gentler and won’t cause the same level of damage. Some soft mulches to consider include:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Pine needles</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shredded bark&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shredded leaves</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood chips</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mulch to avoid:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Landscape glass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pea gravel</li>\n\n\n\n<li>River rock</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rubber mulch</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stone</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of soft mulches:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Protects your windows from breaking</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects your house and car from being scratched up or damaged</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soft mulches are usually much cheaper than hard mulch</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Organic mulches such as tree bark, grass clippings, wood chips, or pine needles are usually best for lawns in hurricane territory. Free is always the best price, since some types of mulch types can be found in your yard, like pine needles or grass clippings. Prices of mulch vary depending on the type of mulch you want to purchase.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Wood mulch costs <strong>$3 to $5</strong> per 2-cubic-foot bag</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood chips cost around <strong>$70</strong> per cubic yard</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bark mulch costs around <strong>$65</strong> per cubic yard</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Paths\">10. Clear Storm Drain Paths</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When rain is pouring down in torrents, water needs somewhere to drain or else flooding ensues. Before a hurricane hits Tampa, check that nearby storm drains aren’t clogged. This involves checking that nothing in your landscape is obstructing or blocking storm drainage pathways.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Leaves, sticks, and other debris get washed down and become blockage. To prevent a blocked drain from causing flooding, don’t slack off on keeping the yard clean and clear, especially if there is a hurricane heading your way. Mowing your lawn before a hurricane also makes it easier for water to drain through your yard.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of clearing storm drains:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Prevents flooding</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces erosion</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cleaner runoff</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regular lawn maintenance keeps a healthier yard</li>\n\n\n\n<li>A debris-free lawn keeps objects from being turned into dangerous projectiles.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> If there is a lot of clutter in your yard that needs to be removed but you don’t have time to do the job yourself, lawn care professionals offer services at around <strong>$154 to $411</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Inside\">11. Bring Yard Decorations Inside</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before a hurricane hits Tampa, bring any loose objects inside, including outdoor chairs, lawn decor and lawn ornaments, toys, etc. Anything left outside might get blown away or become a dangerous projectile that could crash into your windows or car.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, if you have a pool, you should cover it to protect it from getting filled with debris.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of bringing your yard decor inside:&nbsp;</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Prevents loose objects in your yard from being turned into dangerous projectiles</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prevents your belongings or yard decor being blown away</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects delicate yard decor from being damaged or broken</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost: </strong>Clearing your yard should be a DIY job provided you have enough room inside your house to store your lawn decor. If there’s room, your garage can be used as a space to store your yard decor.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Gutters\">12. Clean Your Gutters</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gutter-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12729\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gutter-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gutter-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gutter-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gutter-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gutter-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pixabay.com/vi/photos/m%c3%a1ng-x%e1%bb%91i-b%e1%ba%a3o-v%e1%bb%87-ipswich-2434467/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the weather forecast predicts that a hurricane will hit Tampa soon, than you should clean out your gutters. Clearing out leaves, sticks, or other debris clogging your gutter drainage system allows water to drain properly off your roof.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of cleaning your gutters:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Prevents flooding</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects your roof and foundation</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost: </strong>Hiring a professional to clean your gutters costs <strong>$72 to $424</strong>, depending on the size of the house and whether the house is a single-story or a multi-story building.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"System\">13. Turn Off the Sprinkler System</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When there are heavy hurricane rains and the city is in danger of flooding, the last thing needed is more water on your lawn. Turning off your sprinkler systems before a storm hits helps conserve water and protect the pipes from too much pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of turning off the sprinkler system:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Conserves water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects the pipe from pressure damage</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves money on water bills</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Switching off the sprinkler system doesn’t cost any money and in fact it will save you some money on water bills.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Strikes\">Protect Your Tampa Home Before a Hurricane Strikes</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hurricanes are dangerous and have a tendency to leave behind a lot of wanton destruction in their path. You won’t be able to keep your yard impervious to all damage, but taking steps to protect your yard can reduce property damage and repair costs. For <a href=\"https://www.tampa.gov/emergency-management/hurricane-information\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hurricane preparedness</a>, follow these steps to protect your yard from damage:</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don’t forget to plan ahead and have an evacuation plan ready for your and your family. While you can take steps to protect your yard and increase its hurricane resistance, it still won’t guarantee that your yard or home will be safe. Play it safe and have a plan for what to do when a hurricane strikes.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQs About Hurricane-Resistant Tampa Landscaping Ideas for Tampa</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How long does hurricane season last?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The hurricane season lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30. <br/>  <br/>  </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the best hurricane-resistant grass?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass are the best hurricane-resistant grasses for Tampa yards. They are both warm-season grasses with high salt tolerance and a hardiness that makes them able to weather rough weather.   <br/>   <br/>  </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is artificial grass hurricane-resistant?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Artificial grass is wind-resistant and can handle a large amount of water during heavy hurricane rains.  <br/> <br/>  </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Help\">How a Professional Can Help</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It’s not just wind-resistant trees you need to think about when it comes to your yard: There are also shrubs, bushes, and flowers to consider, as well as fencing and what mulch types are the safest. Ideally, it’s best for Tampa residents to fill their yard with plants that are native to Florida.&nbsp;<br>If you want a hurricane-resistant landscape design, then find a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/tampa/\">Tampa lawn care pro</a> to help you with your next landscaping project.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/132166227@N05/32131548160/\" target=\"_blank\">Mark Souther</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"13 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tampa, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/1789c/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/107df/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 320w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/293e9/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 500w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/f2cbb/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 800w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/1789c/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 960w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/c26c2/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/1dd6e/Trees-near-power-lines.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/67b76/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 320w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/8df11/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 500w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/98a65/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 800w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/1dd6e/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 960w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/3cc96/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"13 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tampa, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tampa is a prime target for hurricanes. Find out how to make your landscaping more hurricane resistant so your yard can weather the storm."}}},{"node":{"id":"af375aac-f430-5777-81fa-9c837b472add","slug":"best-native-plants-austin","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/best-native-plants-austin/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nicki DeStasi is a writer, author, and teacher who grew up in western Massachusetts and currently resides in the Austin area. She enjoys flower and vegetable gardening, reading, cooking, listening to true-crime podcasts, and spending time with her husband, two children, dog, and cat.","name":"Nicki DeStasi","id":"ffbf62e2-d627-5a5f-a041-4eaa9ac66924","path":"/author/nicki-destasi/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9846092d7afb2db8d0a4daa2454074f0?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Austinites keep it weird with our local celebrities, our infamous murals, and our love of nature. One way we show our love of nature is by growing flowers, shrubs, and trees native to the area. If you need ideas, we have 15 of the best native plants that are perfect for your Austin landscape.&nbsp; But [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Austinites keep it weird with our local celebrities, our infamous murals, and our love of nature. One way we show our love of nature is by growing flowers, shrubs, and trees native to the area. If you need ideas, we have 15 of the best native plants that are perfect for your Austin landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>But why should you choose native plants for your landscape? Here are a few of the benefits:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>They&#8217;re easier to care for than non-natives because they naturally thrive in Austin&#8217;s climate.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They attract beneficial wildlife, such as bees, butterflies, and birds.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They use fewer pesticides and fertilizers than non-natives, reducing chemical pollutants that harm local ecosystems.&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Austin\">15 Native Plants for Your Austin Yard</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Mistflower\">Blue Mistflower</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Willow\">Desert Willow</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Acanthus\">Flame Acanthus</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Sumac\">Flameleaf Sumac</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Penstemon\">Hill Country Penstemon</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Lacey\">Lacey Oak</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Missouri\">Missouri Evening Primrose</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Prairie\">Prairie Verbena</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Rock\">Rock Rose</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Roughleaf\">Roughleaf Dogwood</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Yucca\">Texas Red Yucca</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Sage\">Texas Sage</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Wisteria\">Texas Wisteria</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Winecup\">Winecup Flower</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Purple\">Wright’s Purple Skullcap</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Austin Landscape</a>&nbsp;</strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#FAQ\">FAQ for Austin Native Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Find\">Where to Find Native Plants in Austin</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Austin\">15 Native Plants for Your Austin Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mistflower\">1. Blue Mistflower (Conoclinium Coelestinum)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"530\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/49643314492_80a78d3d2a_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing a blue mistflower with blur greenish background\" class=\"wp-image-12838\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/49643314492_80a78d3d2a_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/49643314492_80a78d3d2a_c-1-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/49643314492_80a78d3d2a_c-1-768x509.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/49643314492_80a78d3d2a_c-1-480x318.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/126765045@N07/49643314492\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">jimduggan24</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The blue mistflower is an eye-catching wildflower famous for its bluish-purple fuzzy flowers. The nectar-producing blooms grow in a nearly-flat cluster at the top of the plant. The bright blooms attract bees and butterflies and stand out against the dark-green leaves. You can check them out at Zilker’s Botanical Garden.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Uniquely beautiful, the <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=coco13\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">blue mistflower</a> blooms in late summer and fall. In the wild, they’re often found in stream banks, wet meadows, and ditches. For landscaping, they’re perfect for borders, groundcover, and rain gardens. Usually sown from seeds, the blue mistflower is fast growing and needs to be trimmed and pruned to prevent it from crowding out your other plants.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Wildflower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness zones:</strong> 5-10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Up to 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Moist loam, sand, or clay</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; invasive if left unchecked; attracts bees</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Willow\">2. Desert Willow (Chilopsis Linearis)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14897851758_fcb78dab1d_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Pink colored Chilopsis Linearis plant with green background\" class=\"wp-image-12842\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14897851758_fcb78dab1d_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14897851758_fcb78dab1d_c-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14897851758_fcb78dab1d_c-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14897851758_fcb78dab1d_c-1-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/themarmot/14897851758\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Marmot</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The desert willow resembles a willow but isn’t actually part of the willow family, it’s a member of the bignonia family. With a slew of sweet-smelling pink, white, or purple flowers, butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees flock to the desert willow’s nectar-rich blooms. This small, fast-growing ornamental tree is drought resistant and excellent for erosion control. It also makes a great focal point for any yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=chli2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">desert willow</a> requires minimal trimming and is known as a set-it-and-forget-it tree. However, it can be pruned into a large shrub if that’s the aesthetic you’re looking for. Desert willow is popular for <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/xeriscaping/\">xeriscaping</a> or limestone-heavy soil because of its low water needs. You can see them in bloom at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in late spring, summer, and early fall.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone</strong>: 7-11</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Up to 40 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Well-drained limestone soils are preferred, but also does well in sands, loams, clays, caliches, granitic, and rocky soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low; water occasionally if no rain after 30 days</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; susceptible to Alterneria leaf spot; attracts wildlife and bees</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Acanthus\">3. Flame Acanthus (Anisacanthus Quadrifidus var. Wrightii)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"618\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/35674161932_8884b13f68_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing a single flame acanthus flower\" class=\"wp-image-12844\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/35674161932_8884b13f68_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/35674161932_8884b13f68_c-1-300x232.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/35674161932_8884b13f68_c-1-768x593.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/35674161932_8884b13f68_c-1-480x371.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/ejmc/35674161932\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Earl McGehee</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The flame acanthus is a Texas native with many nicknames, including Hummingbird Bush, Texas Firecracker Plant, Mexican Flame, and more. As one of its nicknames suggests, hummingbirPds love the nectar that flows from the reddish-orange, tubular flowers. It also attracts bees and birds but is deer-resistant.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Preferring full sun and low moisture, the <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=anquw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">flame acanthus</a> is an ideal choice for xeriscaping, perennial gardens, and patio pots. Shockingly, this plant can live for more than 30 years. While you will need to control the shrub’s growth, it only requires trimming after the flowers bloom.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone</strong>: 7-10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> 3-5 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun or partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Adaptable to many soils but prefers well-drained sand, loam, clay, caliche, limestone&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; reseeds profusely; attracts bees</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Sumac\">4. Flameleaf Sumac (Rhus Lanceolata)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"642\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flameleaf-Sumac.jpg\" alt=\"image of red leaves of flameleaf sumac\" class=\"wp-image-12882\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flameleaf-Sumac.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flameleaf-Sumac-300x241.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flameleaf-Sumac-768x616.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flameleaf-Sumac-480x385.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rhus_lanceolata.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mike Tilley</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also called the Texan sumac and the prairie flameleaf sumac, the flameleaf sumac puts on a fiery show of fire-engine-red leaves in the fall, hence the name. This native shrub is also eye-catching in bloom with its tiny white flowers. The red berries that follow the blooms can be steeped for a tasty tea rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>This tree is not a skin irritant, unlike the similar-sounding, rash-inducing poison sumac. <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=rhla3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flameleaf sumac</a> is also a haven for many species, like birds, bees, and small animals. It’s also highly resistant to both <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/the-worst-bugs-in-austin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/\">pests</a> and diseases, except Verticillium wilt, a fungal disease. This ornamental beauty is a showstopper in any Austin yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 6-8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Usually 12-15 feet, but can grow up to 30 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Rocky, calcareous, well-drained limestone soils, including clays, loams, and sands.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low-medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; potential to be invasive because it seeds itself; susceptible to Verticillium wilt</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Penstemon\">5. Hill Country Penstemon (Penstemon Triflorus)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Penstemon_triflorus_flowers.jpg\" alt=\"Pink colored Penstemon Triflorus plant\" class=\"wp-image-12846\" width=\"831\" height=\"731\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Penstemon_triflorus_flowers.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Penstemon_triflorus_flowers-300x264.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Penstemon_triflorus_flowers-768x676.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Penstemon_triflorus_flowers-480x422.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 831px) 100vw, 831px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Penstemon_triflorus_flowers.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stan Shebs</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes called the Hill Country beardtongue or the scarlet beardtongue, the Hill Country penstemon is an Edwards Plateau native. The vibrant pink or red tube-shaped flowers stand out against the dark green oval leaves. The hairy stamen gives the showy flower the nickname “beardtongue.” This ornamental plant is perfect for perennial gardens and cut flowers.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>During its growing season, this nectar-rich plant attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and deer. While the <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=petr2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hill Country penstemon</a> is relatively short, the flowers are big in comparison, about 2 inches long. You can see the flowers in bloom in spring and early <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/summer-lawn-care-guide-2/\">summer</a> at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 5-8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Up to 2 feet tall; 1.5 feet wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry, limestone-based soils: sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low; water if 3 to 4 weeks without rain&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; susceptible to brown spot; attracts deer and bees</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Lacey\">6. Lacey Oak (Quercus Laceyi)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"857\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pxfuel.com-1-1.jpg\" alt=\"leaves from a lacey oak tree\" class=\"wp-image-12916\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pxfuel.com-1-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pxfuel.com-1-1-280x300.jpg 280w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pxfuel.com-1-1-768x823.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pxfuel.com-1-1-480x514.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.pxfuel.com/en/free-photo-oqhov/download\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxfuel</a> </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native to central Texas, lacey oak trees are found in many Austin area landscapes. They’re named after Howard Lacey, who first collected specimens on his property about two hours west of Austin. The rounded-toothed leaves are peach-colored in spring and fall. In the summer, they take on a smokey grayish-green color. <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=qula\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lacey oaks</a> produce yellow flowers that turn into acorns.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because lacey oak is resistant to wilt, they’re often preferred over live oak and red oak. The medium-sized tree is an excellent food source and shelter for small mammals and birds. <strong>Fun fact</strong>: The largest known lacey oak grows just next door in Blanco County. It stands just under 60 feet tall, and the trunk is just over 3 feet in diameter. Wow!</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 7-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Up to 60 feet&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage</strong>: Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Sun or partial shade&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry, limestone or rocky soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Very low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; attracts deer; susceptible to oak phylloxera insects</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Missouri\">7. Missouri Evening Primrose (Oenothera Macrocarpa)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oenothera_macrocarpa_kz06-1.jpg\" alt=\"Yellow colored Oenothera macrocarpa\" class=\"wp-image-12849\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oenothera_macrocarpa_kz06-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oenothera_macrocarpa_kz06-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oenothera_macrocarpa_kz06-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oenothera_macrocarpa_kz06-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oenothera_macrocarpa_kz06-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Oenothera_macrocarpa_kz06.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kenraiz</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its name, Missouri primrose is native to the entire south-central United States, including Texas. Even though it has bright yellow elongated flowers, it’s primarily nocturnal, meaning it blooms at night and closes in the day. The <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=OEMA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Missouri evening primrose</a> is a nectar source that mostly attracts hawk moths but also native bees and hummingbirds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The showy plant grows easily from seed or stem cuttings. Considered a trailing plant, the Missouri evening primrose is often grown in poor soil gardens, rock gardens, or containers. Remove dead blooms and cut back damaged leaves to promote healthy growth. You can check out these stunning, large, four-petaled blooms at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 3-8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> 8-10 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry, rocky, gravelly, or sandy soils: calcareous, sandy, limestone-based, sandy Loam, medium Loam</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; susceptible to root rot</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Prairie\">8. Prairie Verbena (Glandularia Bipinnatifida)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/rsz_4596500345_9f38e0a8fa_c.jpg\" alt=\"cluster of light purple prairie verbena flowers\" class=\"wp-image-4637\"/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/46802541@N02/4596500345/\">mikeumo</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-ND 2.0</a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n<p>Native to south-central United States and Central America, prairie verbena is found in grassy areas, along roadsides, trails, and landscapes all over Texas, including Austin. In fact, they’re on display at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Austin chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also called “moradilla,” Spanish for “little purple one,” this beautiful plant puts on a show with clusters of violet, purple, or pink flowers against dark green, unusual-shaped leaves (like large, elongated parsley leaves). This long-blooming (March through October), nectar-producing flower attracts butterflies and birds with its sweet fragrance but is deer resistant. The creeping <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=glbi2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prairie verbena</a> provides superb groundcover in most gardens.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 4-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Up to 16 inches tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Well-drained sand, loam, clay, caliche, and limestone</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low-medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; susceptible to Powdery Mildew</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Rock\">9. Rock Rose (Pavonia Lasiopetala)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rose-flower-nature-garden-flowering-plant-petal-1607880-pxhere.com-1.jpg\" alt=\"A pink colored rock rose plant \" class=\"wp-image-12854\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rose-flower-nature-garden-flowering-plant-petal-1607880-pxhere.com-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rose-flower-nature-garden-flowering-plant-petal-1607880-pxhere.com-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rose-flower-nature-garden-flowering-plant-petal-1607880-pxhere.com-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rose-flower-nature-garden-flowering-plant-petal-1607880-pxhere.com-1-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1607880\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native to the Edwards Plateau through the Rio Grande and into Mexico, the rock rose is a popular choice for Austin landscapes and perennial gardens due to its high heat tolerance and beautiful blooms. The showy, paper-thin, pink or yellow flowers contrast exquisitely with the coarsely toothed, dark green leaves. To see it up close, take a stroll through Zilker’s Botanical Gardens.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rock rose is an easily grown shrub that needs to be cut back before winter to encourage bushy, compact growth. The nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds, nectar moths, and butterflies. The flowers only bloom for a short time before falling off to make room for the next one, but the flowers bloom spring, summer, and fall. Surprisingly, the <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=pala13\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">rock rose</a> fragrance is more prominent in the foliage than the bloom.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 8-13</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Up to 4 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun or partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Prefers dry, well-drained, rocky or limestone soils: caliche, sandy, clay, and loam (sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; susceptible to mildew and gray mold (also known as botrytis blight)</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Roughleaf\">10. Roughleaf Dogwood (Cornus Drummondii)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"581\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/18658601076_734cc969bc_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"A green colored roughleaf dogwood plant\" class=\"wp-image-12856\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/18658601076_734cc969bc_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/18658601076_734cc969bc_c-1-300x218.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/18658601076_734cc969bc_c-1-768x558.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/18658601076_734cc969bc_c-1-480x349.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/50697352@N00/18658601076\" target=\"_blank\">F. D. Richards</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The roughleaf dogwood is an adaptable tree native to the central United States west of the Mississippi and Ontario but now flourishes amid the eastern U.S. too. The large clusters of creamy white flowers turn into bunches of fleshy white berries in late fall. The <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=codr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">roughleaf dogwood</a> gets its name from the hairy upper part of its oval leaf.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The roughleaf dogwood blooms attract nectar insects like butterflies and native bees. Small birds feast on the berries while nesting amongst the branches. The tree’s also great for erosion control. While the roughleaf dogwood grows throughout Austin landscapes, it’s also featured at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 5-8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Up to 20 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Partial shade, shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry to moist, alkaline soils. Limestone-based, sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay, acid-based, calcareous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; susceptible to several pests and diseases, but they don’t typically affect the tree’s growth</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Yucca\">11. Texas Red Yucca (Hesperaloe Parviflora)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hesperaloe_parviflora_Ponteilla.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing Hesperaloe parviflora plant\" class=\"wp-image-12857\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hesperaloe_parviflora_Ponteilla.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hesperaloe_parviflora_Ponteilla-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hesperaloe_parviflora_Ponteilla-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hesperaloe_parviflora_Ponteilla-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hesperaloe_parviflora_Ponteilla-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hesperaloe_parviflora,_Ponteilla.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sylenius</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also called the hummingbird yucca or the false yucca, the Texas red yucca isn’t actually part of the yucca family. It does resemble a yucca with its long, thin, grasslike leaves and tall wand-like flower stems, but it’s classified as a succulent. Native to Texas and Northern Mexico, the <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=hepa8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Texas red yucca</a> is heat, cold, and drought tolerant.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hummingbirds love the coral, yellow, or red flowers, but so do deer. The dark, olive-green leaves stay green all year, while the flowers bloom from February to July. This evergreen plant is ideal for rock gardens or <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/landscaping/benefits-xeriscaping-your-lawn/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">xeriscaping</a> but thrives in most well-draining soils. If you want to see this beautiful plant firsthand, check it out at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Succulent</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 5-10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Succulent</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> 3-5 feet tall; 2-4 feet wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry, well-drained sand, loam, caliche, limestone.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Very low; no water once established, but occasional watering might be needed if no rainfall after 30 days</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Raw plant is toxic to humans and dogs, but cooked Texas Red Yucca is edible.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Sage\">12. Texas Sage (Leucophyllum Frutescens)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"564\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Leucophyllum_frutescens_Purple_Sage_W_IMG_1125.jpg\" alt=\"A pink colored flower of Texas sage\" class=\"wp-image-12858\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Leucophyllum_frutescens_Purple_Sage_W_IMG_1125.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Leucophyllum_frutescens_Purple_Sage_W_IMG_1125-300x212.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Leucophyllum_frutescens_Purple_Sage_W_IMG_1125-768x541.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Leucophyllum_frutescens_Purple_Sage_W_IMG_1125-480x338.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Leucophyllum_frutescens_%28Purple_Sage%29_W_IMG_1125.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">J.M. Garg</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native to Texas and Northern Mexico, the Texas sage has several nicknames, including Barometer Bush and Texas Silverleaf. This beautiful shrub gets the “silver” part of its nickname from its leaves that are densely covered in stellate (silvery hairs). Use it in rock gardens or as a hedge.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LEFR3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Texas sage</a> leaves give the shrub a gray-silvery appearance, which enhances the white, pink, purple, or violet blooms. The year-round blooming flowers are about an inch wide and almost bell-shaped. The flowers bloom in periods of rain or high humidity, hence the nickname “Barometer Bush.” The nectar-producing blooms attract butterflies to your yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 8-10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> Usually 2-5 feet, but can grow up to 10 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Dry, well-drained, rocky or limestone-based soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low to very low; water if 3-4 weeks without rain</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; susceptible to Cotton Root Rot</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Wisteria\">13. Texas Wisteria (Wisteria Frutescens)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Wisteria_frutescens_Amethyst_Falls_3zz-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12859\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Wisteria_frutescens_Amethyst_Falls_3zz-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Wisteria_frutescens_Amethyst_Falls_3zz-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Wisteria_frutescens_Amethyst_Falls_3zz-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Wisteria_frutescens_Amethyst_Falls_3zz-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Wisteria_frutescens_Amethyst_Falls_3zz-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wisteria_frutescens_Amethyst_Falls_3zz.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">David J. Stang</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also called the American wisteria, the Texas wisteria is native to the entire eastern half and south-central United States, including Texas. This woody, climbing vine usually produces long clusters (6-8 inches) of purple flowers in early summer. The flowers can also be pink, blue, or white. The flowers turn into large pea pods that are not edible, so keep pets away.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fragrant flowers produce nectar and attract butterflies and moths. While not as aggressive as the Asian cousin, <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=WIFR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Texas wisteria</a> can crowd out other plants and is best grown on an arbor or trellis. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center proudly displays Texas Wisteria as part of its collection.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Flowering vine</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> 25-30 feet tall; 3-6 feet wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage</strong>: Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun, partial shade, shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Rich, moist to mesic, neutral to slightly acidic soils: sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, and clay</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium; if there is no rainfall, water every 2-3 weeks</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Toxic to pets and humans, except flowers are edible</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Winecup\">14. Winecup Flower (Callirhoe Involucrata)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Callirhoe_involucrata_20107857120.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing pink colored flowers of winecup flower\" class=\"wp-image-12861\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Callirhoe_involucrata_20107857120.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Callirhoe_involucrata_20107857120-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Callirhoe_involucrata_20107857120-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Callirhoe_involucrata_20107857120-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Callirhoe_involucrata_20107857120-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Callirhoe_involucrata_%2820107857120%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">peganum</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The winecup flower is prevalent throughout most of the United States and is one of the most common wild herbs in Texas. Its purple, white, or pink flowers bloom in spring and early summer. The <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=cain2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">winecup flower</a> is used as a flower bed cover, in hanging baskets, or draping over a wall.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and deer. The plant’s roots can be used for medicinal purposes, including for head colds and pain. The chalice-shaped flower blooms most of the year except when it goes dormant in late summer. You can see this plant throughout Austin fields, landscapes, and at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone</strong>: 4-8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> 8-12 inches tall spreading to 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Evergreen, semi-evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Well-drained, calcareous, acid-based, rocky, gravelly and sandy soils: clay, clay loam, medium loam, sandy loam</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; susceptible to pests or diseases if the soil is too wet when it may contract root or crown rot</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Purple\">15. Wright’s Purple Skullcap (Scutellaria Wrightii)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"571\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/iStock-1464390827-2.jpg\" alt=\"A purple skullcap flower with green background\" class=\"wp-image-13198\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/iStock-1464390827-2.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/iStock-1464390827-2-300x214.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/iStock-1464390827-2-768x548.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/iStock-1464390827-2-480x343.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/shallow-focus-of-skullcaps-flowers-in-garden-with-blurred-green-in-the-background-on-gm1464390827-497095822?phrase=Purple%20skullcap\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Istock</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native to Texas and Oklahoma, Wright’s purple skullcap is also called shrubby skullcap or bushy skullcap. Named after the famous botanist Charles Wright, <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=scwr2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wright’s purple skullcap</a> is a popular choice for Austin landscape due to its drought and heat resistance. The small, violet, cone-shaped, nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wright’s purple skullcap blooms in spring and summer, attracting deer. If you want to check out this lovely, hardy shrub, you can see it on display throughout Texas, including Texas Discovery Garden in Dallas, Jacob’s Well Natural Area in Wimberly, and right here in Austin at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit:</strong> Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>7-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> 6-10 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Well-drained sand, loam, chalk, limestone</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; highly pest resistant; susceptible to rot if the soil is too wet</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Austin Landscape&nbsp;</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Anyone who lives in Austin knows that our city is much different than the rest of the state. Texas has seven geographical regions, so not all Texas-native plants are good choices for Austin.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just because a plant is an Austin native doesn’t mean it will do well in your landscape. Make sure the plant you choose is compatible with your yard’s microclimate, such as soil type and sun exposure.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Austin’s soil consists of <a href=\"https://travis-tx.tamu.edu/about-2/horticulture/soils-and-composting-for-austin/the-real-dirt-on-austin-area-soils/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">three ecoregions</a>, each with different soil types: the Edwards Plateau, the Blackland Prairies, and the Post Oak Savannah Floodplains.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Edwards Plateau</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Exposed limestone</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soil contains large amounts of crumbled limestone</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clay soil prevalent</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prone to runoff</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Blackland Prairie</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Wet soil is tough to remove from tools</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soil holds its shape in your hand, feels like pottery clay</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soil profile is very deep, solid rock rarely found</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dried-out areas resemble concrete</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Post Oak Savannah Floodplains</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Terrain is relatively flat, commonly found along river and creek bottoms</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soil is loose, drains extremely fast, and has difficulty retaining moisture</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prone to flooding</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Look into which soil type is found in your yard to help you determine the best plants for your landscape. While researching, discover excellent low-maintenance landscape ideas and the best grass types for your Austin lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"FAQ\">FAQ for Austin Native Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When can I plant wildflowers in Austin?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> If you’re planting in spring, plant between Jan. 15 and March 1. If you’re planting in the fall, start between Oct. 1 and Dec. 1. These ranges come from the Texas DOT and USDA plant hardiness zones. Austin’s plant hardiness zones are 8a-8b. Austin falls right on the line between those two zones.    The hardiness zones help gardeners and landscapers determine what plants will thrive in a certain area based on winter low temperatures. In Austin, albeit rare, the temperature can be as low as 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why Austin falls in the 8a-8b zones.    </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What makes a plant native?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><p>Austin has tons of <a href=\"https://npsot.org/wp/austin/nice-program-plant-information-sheets/\">native plants</a> according to the Native Plant Society of Texas, Austin Chapter. But there are a few things that most Austin native plants have in common.</p><ul><li><strong>Drought resistant</strong>: Austin averages only 36 inches of rain a year, and native plants can survive dry times.<strong>Heat tolerant</strong>: Summer month averages are in the high 90s, and the temperatures routinely soar over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.   <strong>Pest and disease resistant</strong>: Native plants have natural protections, making them resistant to common diseases and pests.   <strong>Wildlife food source</strong>: Butterflies, bees, and birds use native plants as food and nesting sites.</li></ul></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I water my flowers during a water ban?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><p>The simple answer is “yes,” however, there are restrictions depending on the water ban stage and where you live. Here are some common watering restrictions.</p><ul><li><strong>Watering can only</strong>: Officials may limit watering to watering cans only, meaning you can water with a spray hose and not a sprinkler system.   <strong>Time of day limits</strong>: The time you can water your flowers may be restricted to early morning to ensure water isn’t wasted through evaporation.   <strong>Number of days</strong>: Watering is restricted to a certain number of days for lawns, but could be put in place for gardens, too.</li></ul>Be sure to check Austin’s, water website for more information on restrictions.</p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Find\">Where to Find Native Plants in Austin</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to introduce native plants into your landscape, source them ethically. Don’t remove plants from the wild to transplant them into your yard. You can disturb wildlife habitats and introduce pests and diseases to your landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead, check out the plant selection at one of these local nurseries that Austin Monthly recommends:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The Great Outdoors</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Garden Seventeen</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shoal Creek Nursery</li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Natural Gardener</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Barton Springs Nursery</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you&#8217;ve filled your garden with low-maintenance native plants, it might be time to turn your attention to the lawn. Make sure you have one of the best grass types for Austin for the healthiest lawn possible. Then, keep your grass healthy without breaking a sweat by hiring a highly-rated <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/\">Austin professional</a> to handle lawn care for you.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Daniel Norton</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n","title":"15 Best Native Plants for Austin, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2.4193548387096775,"src":"/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/1789c/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/107df/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.jpg 320w,\n/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/293e9/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.jpg 500w,\n/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/f2cbb/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.jpg 800w,\n/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/1789c/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.jpg 960w,\n/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/c26c2/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/1dd6e/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/67b76/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.webp 320w,\n/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/8df11/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.webp 500w,\n/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/98a65/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.webp 800w,\n/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/1dd6e/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.webp 960w,\n/static/3fa6c21e03d5e94735bc1596e7c28e21/3cc96/Bluebonnets_on_Lake_Austin_Boulevard.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"15 Best Native Plants for Austin, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Native plants are key to the healthy mico-ecosystem of your garden and landscaping. Discover the best native plants for your Austin yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"77f56b20-5ed4-55be-bd4c-db173a406496","slug":"best-grass-types-austin","path":"/lawn-care/tx/best-grass-types-austin/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nicki DeStasi is a writer, author, and teacher who grew up in western Massachusetts and currently resides in the Austin area. She enjoys flower and vegetable gardening, reading, cooking, listening to true-crime podcasts, and spending time with her husband, two children, dog, and cat.","name":"Nicki DeStasi","id":"ffbf62e2-d627-5a5f-a041-4eaa9ac66924","path":"/author/nicki-destasi/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9846092d7afb2db8d0a4daa2454074f0?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Even in the dead of winter, Austin temperatures average over 60 degrees, so it’s no wonder residents spend time in their yards year-round. Austinites love their barbeque and tacos, and enjoy eating them at parties in their luscious green backyard with friends and family. If you want an impressive lawn, choosing the right grass type [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Even in the dead of winter, Austin temperatures average over 60 degrees, so it’s no wonder residents spend time in their yards year-round. Austinites love their barbeque and tacos, and enjoy eating them at parties in their luscious green backyard with friends and family. If you want an impressive lawn, choosing the right grass type is critical.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>With Austin’s scorching summers and mild winters, warm-season grasses thrive. While warm-season grasses are common in the South, they go dormant in the winter. So along with the best warm-season grass types, we’ve included a cool-season grass that will keep your Austin lawn green in the winter.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Cool\">Cool-Season Grass Vs. Warm-Season Grass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Types\">5 Best Grass Types for Austin</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Bermudagrass\">Bermudagrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Augustinegrass\">St. Augustinegrass</a>&nbsp;</strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Zoysiagrass\">Zoysiagrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Buffalograss\">Buffalograss</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Perennial\">Perennial Ryegrass</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#FAQ\">FAQ About Austin Grass Types</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Cool\">Cool-Season Grass Vs. Warm-Season Grass</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on the optimal growing climate, there are two types of grasses: Cool-season and warm-season. The primary difference is how they photosynthesize, each requiring different temperatures and environments. Here’s what you can expect from cool-season and warm-season grass types.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cool-Season Grass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, cool-season grasses grow in the North, preferring cold winters and mild summers. Heat is the main hurdle for cool-season grasses. As temperatures rise, they need more energy to stay green. Eventually, it becomes too hot for cool-season grass, and they’ll go dormant (turn brown).&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some things to consider with cool-season grasses:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Growth begins when soil temperatures reach 40-45 degrees Fahrenheit</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ideal growing temperature is 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Best growth periods are early spring and fall (depending on the climate)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Go dormant when the temperature is over 90 degrees Fahrenheit</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Require more water as temperatures rise</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tolerate cold better than warm-season grasses</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warm-Season Grass</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Warm-season grasses thrive in places like Austin with hot summers and mild winters. Winters can be stressful for warm-season grasses, so when temperatures drop, warm-season grasses go dormant.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some things to consider with cool-season grasses:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Growth begins when soil temperatures reach 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ideal growing temperature is 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Best growth period is summer (depending on climate)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Go dormant when temperatures are below 50 degrees Fahrenheit</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Require less water than cool-season grasses</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tolerate drought better than cool-season grasses</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Types\">5 Best Grass Types for Austin</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether installing a new lawn or fixing an existing one, we’ve got four warm-season grasses and one cool-season grass that will transform your Austin lawn and keep it looking great year-round.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bermudagrass\">1. Bermudagrass</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing lush green colored bermuda grass of a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12549\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.pexels.com/photo/focus-photography-of-green-bermuda-grass-949584/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Texas,<strong> </strong><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/texas-turfgrasses/bermudagrass/\">bermudagrass</a> is the most popular grass type. It&#8217;s popular due to its fast growth rate, durability in high-traffic areas, and high heat tolerance. Conversely, bermudagrass needs frequent mowing, has low shade tolerance, and tends to develop thatch.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common in Austin and throughout the South, this light-green, fine-textured grass is used in home lawns, sports fields, and parks. Because of its deep roots and high growth rate, bermudagrass can be considered aggressive and <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/lawn-mowing-and-maintenance-in-austin/\">high-maintenance</a>. Even though those traits are great for durability, some homeowners prefer a hybrid mix to cut down on upkeep.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons and rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Poor — needs full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance</strong>: High&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1-2 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Good resistance to disease, but susceptible to Spring dead spot, Root decline, Dollar spot, Leaf spot, Large patch; low resistance to insects and susceptible to, Bermudagrass mite, White grubs, Hunting billbug, Mole crickets, Cutworms, Armyworms, Sod webworms</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Tolerates most soil types</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/controlling-the-worst-weeds-in-austin/\">weeds</a>. 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.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Augustinegrass\">2. St. Augustinegrass</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Starr-070906-8535-Stenotaphrum_secundatum-habit-Kula_Ace_Hardware_and_Nursery-Maui_24264673843.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing beautiful lush green colored Augustine grass\" class=\"wp-image-12512\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Starr-070906-8535-Stenotaphrum_secundatum-habit-Kula_Ace_Hardware_and_Nursery-Maui_24264673843.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Starr-070906-8535-Stenotaphrum_secundatum-habit-Kula_Ace_Hardware_and_Nursery-Maui_24264673843-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Starr-070906-8535-Stenotaphrum_secundatum-habit-Kula_Ace_Hardware_and_Nursery-Maui_24264673843-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Starr-070906-8535-Stenotaphrum_secundatum-habit-Kula_Ace_Hardware_and_Nursery-Maui_24264673843-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Starr-070906-8535-Stenotaphrum_secundatum-habit-Kula_Ace_Hardware_and_Nursery-Maui_24264673843-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credits: <a href=\"https://flickr.com/photos/97499887@N06/24264673843\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Forest and Kim Starr</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Austin has live oaks everywhere around the city, so <a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/texas-turfgrasses/st-augustinegrass/\">St. Augustinegrass</a> is a popular choice due to its high shade tolerance. This warm-season grass is easy to establish because of its fast growth rate. However, St. Augustinegrass doesn’t hold up well in high-traffic areas or an uncommonly cold Austin winter.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>This thick, coarsely textured, dark green grass has moderate mowing requirements. It is susceptible to <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/identify-lawn-care-problems-austin-tx/\">disease</a> and pests, like chinch bugs. While St. Augustinegrass is native to the coastal areas and has high salt tolerance, it grows well in most soils. It’s not available as seed, only as sod, sprigs, or plugs.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Moderate to high mowing frequency</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, take-all root rot. Susceptible to some pests, including chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, armyworms, webworms, grubs</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-7.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil. compaction.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> 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</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Zoysiagrass\">3. Zoysiagrass</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp.jpg\" alt=\"Beautiful green colored zoysia grass in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12551\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Starr_070906-8518_Zoysia_sp..jpg\">Forest &amp; Kim Starr</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>With about 11 cultivars available in Texas, <a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/texas-turfgrasses/zoysiagrass/\">Zoysiagrass</a> is excellent for homeowners looking for a grass that tolerates drought, shade, cold, and heavy traffic. While Zoysiagrass has moderate mowing and <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/comprehensive-guide-to-watering-austin-tx-lawns/\">water</a> needs, it doesn’t need much fertilizer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It comes in light- to medium-green varieties and has thin- and thick-bladed options. Zoysiagrass does well against pests and diseases, and its density crowds out weeds. Its beautifully soft texture makes it one of the best “barefoot grasses&#8221; available.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although Zoysiagrass is available as seed, it’s recommended to use sod because of its slow growth rate.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons and rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Tolerates light to moderate shade&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1-2.5 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Not prone to disease and insects; good disease tolerance overall; can be susceptible to large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and leaf spot; insects susceptibility includes Zoysiagrass mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, armyworms, chinch bugs, sod webworms</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if the grass is in partial shade&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Buffalograss\">4. Buffalograss</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_pixnio-4149-2560x1920-1.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing green colored buffalo grass in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12546\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_pixnio-4149-2560x1920-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_pixnio-4149-2560x1920-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_pixnio-4149-2560x1920-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_pixnio-4149-2560x1920-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_pixnio-4149-2560x1920-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pixnio.com/textures-and-patterns/grass-texture/buffalo-grass-texture#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixnio</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/texas-turfgrasses/buffalograss/\">Buffalograss</a> is a warm-season grass that thrives in Austin’s dry climate. This cold and drought-tolerant grass loves the sun and is <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/the-worst-bugs-in-austin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/\">pest</a> and disease resistant. However, it doesn’t stand up well against high traffic and shade.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>This North American <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/native-plants-and-flowers-that-thrive-in-austin-round-rock/\">native</a> grass is grayish green, and its slow growth rate means it does not need frequent mowing. Once established with seeds, sod, or plugs, it needs very little water or fertilizer. Its low growth density means thatch isn’t a problem for buffalograss, but weeds can be.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Warm-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Very low — best suited for full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Very low, but light use or rare heavy use is OK</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Low mowing frequency — once per week or less</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 2-4 inches or leave unmowed</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Good tolerance against diseases, but susceptible to bipolaris leaf spot; susceptible to some insects, including mealybugs, buffalograss webworms, mites, short-tailed crickets, buffalograss chinch bugs</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6.5-7.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Native soils, not sandy soils</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Perennial\">5. Perennial Ryegrass</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass.jpg\" alt=\"A close up pic of perennial ryegrass beside a road\" class=\"wp-image-12527\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/plant_diversity/48101863006\">Matt Levin</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>While ryegrass has a perennial and annual variation, <a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/texas-turfgrasses/perennial-ryegrass/\">perennial ryegrass</a> is more desirable for your Austin lawn. Perennial ryegrass is much softer, richer, and more vibrant than the course, light green annual ryegrass. This cool-season grass keeps your lawn lush and green in the winter but will need extra attention in the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/summer-lawn-care-guide-2/\">summer</a> due to its low heat and drought tolerance.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ryegrass is often mixed with other grasses to keep your lawn looking great year-round. While it’s susceptible to diseases like dollar spot and brown patch, it’s pest resistant. The sun-loving grass dislikes shade but establishes very quickly.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Cool-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Bunch-type grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Low — prefers full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought resistance:</strong> Low (summer dormancy in some areas)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> High but poor recuperative ability</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Moderate mowing requirement, depending on cutting height (lower cutting heights require more frequent mowing)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 2-3 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> High, especially in areas with hot, humid summers; susceptible to gray leaf spot, dollar spot, brown patch, red thread, rust, pythium blight; insect susceptibility includes billbugs, greenbug aphids, chinch bugs</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-7</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Good drainage, high fertility</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>Most often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue in a cool-season mix; well known for its excellent striping ability, low mowing tolerance, and rapid germination rate (four to seven days). Needs moderate levels of fertilizer.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"FAQ\">FAQ About Austin Grass Types</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I care for my austin lawn?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The best way to care for your lawn depends on the type of grass planted in your yard. However, you should follow a few universal tips and tricks for a healthy lawn.                                                            Mow at the right time: Mid-morning, about 9 a.m., or mid-afternoon, about 5 p.m. is the best time of the day to mow. Mowing after the dew dries prevents tearing the grass blades and mowing before the sun sets decreases the risk of disease.                                                                                        Leave grass clippings: Grass clippings provide essential (and free) nutrients for your lawn. However, if your grass is exceptionally long, collect them, or you risk growing mold or smothering your lawn.         Keep mower blades sharp: Dull blades rip and tear your grass blades, causing a brown grass tip and a ragged-looking lawn. It also makes your grass more susceptible to disease.</p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"> When should I plant grass seed in Austin?    </strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">In Austin, plant grass seed in March or April. Planting at this time gives the seed enough time to germinate before the summer scorches the lawn. </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"> Which grass type has the best drought tolerance in Austin?    </strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> Bermudagrass is the most drought-tolerant grass type in Austin home lawns.</p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choosing a Grass Type for Your Austin Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While most warm-season grasses will do well on your Austin landscape, think about the following when making the best choice for you.</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Growth rate</strong>: How fast your grass grows will affect how quickly it establishes and the amount of maintenance required.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Traffic tolerance</strong>: If you have little ones &#8211; the two or four-legged kind &#8211; consider grass that can withstand heavy foot traffic.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pest and disease resistance</strong>: Some grasses are more susceptible to pests and diseases.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing a grass type can be overwhelming, but <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/austin/\">Austin lawn care professionals</a> can help. Whether you want to install low-maintenance landscaping with things like native plants, or just want someone to maintain the lawn you have, Wikilawn has highly-rated experts that will turn your outdoor space into a lush, emerald oasis.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Keith_House_%28Texas%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">S</a><a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Keith_House_%28Texas%29.jpg\">mokeybear69</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Austin, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/1789c/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/107df/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.jpg 320w,\n/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/293e9/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.jpg 500w,\n/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/f2cbb/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.jpg 800w,\n/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/1789c/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.jpg 960w,\n/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/c26c2/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/1dd6e/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/67b76/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.webp 320w,\n/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/8df11/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.webp 500w,\n/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/98a65/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.webp 800w,\n/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/1dd6e/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.webp 960w,\n/static/3747e34231d1768b175e54b7a1ee947e/3cc96/1280px-Keith_House_Texas.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Austin, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"If you need to establish a lawn or your existing lawn is a mess, you need the perfect grass. Learn about the best warm and cool-season grass for Austin lawns."}}},{"node":{"id":"0147d12a-bf6b-528f-9ac4-5f6236453db2","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-jacksonville","path":"/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-jacksonville/","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":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"075cc120-3dd3-51e4-aead-643f50a8453e","name":"Jacksonville","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Tropical weather isn’t all beautiful. Sunny weather may be followed by a tropical storm or a hurricane. While there’s only so much you can do to protect your home, hurricane-resistant landscaping can minimize damage and make cleanup easier. Here are 12 ideas to implement in your yard to help your landscaping weather the storm. In [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Tropical weather isn’t all beautiful. Sunny weather may be followed by a tropical storm or a hurricane. While there’s only so much you can do to protect your home, hurricane-resistant landscaping can minimize damage and make cleanup easier. Here are 12 ideas to implement in your yard to help your landscaping weather the storm.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#Jacksonville\">12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping ideas for Jacksonville</a></strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Tolerance\">Choose Plants with Good Salt Tolerance</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Trees\">Plant Wind-Tolerant Trees</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Regularly\">Maintain and Inspect Your Trees Regularly</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Home\">Keep Large Trees Away From Power Lines and Your Home</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Plants\">Cover or Wrap Up Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Mulches\">Use Soft Mulches</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Seawall\">Build a Seawall</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Fencing\">Install Sturdy Fencing</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Hazards\">Remove Storm Hazards</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Clear\">Keep Storm Drain Paths Clear</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Gutters\">Clean Gutters</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Sprinklers\">Turn Off Automatic Sprinklers</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Strikes\">Protect Your Jacksonville Home Before a Hurricane Strikes</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#help\">How a Professional Can Help</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Jacksonville\">12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Jacksonville</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hurricane season lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30, and during the hurricane season, Floridians don’t want to be caught off-guard. With winds reaching speeds over 157 mph, hurricanes cause a lot of wind damage and often lead to flooding.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>For <a href=\"https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/home/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hurricane preparedness</a>, here are some tips to keep your yard safer so you can be ready for the next time a tropical storm strikes Jacksonville.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Tolerance\">1. Choose Plants with Good Salt Tolerance</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/777px-Miami_Beach_-_South_Beach_Sand_Dune_Flora_-_Helianthus_debilis_Dune_Sunflower_29.jpg\" alt=\"yellow beach sunflowers\" class=\"wp-image-64739\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Miami_Beach_-_South_Beach_Sand_Dune_Flora_-_Helianthus_debilis_Dune_Sunflower_(29).jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Daniel Di Palma</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Seeing all your hard work go down the drain is heartbreaking if you’re a plant lover. The additional salt water from tropical storms can cause plants to wilt, halt growth, or die. Some plants are susceptible to salinity, but others are more salt tolerant and better adapted to coastal areas.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/best-native-plants/\">Native plants</a> are more likely to survive local weather and are lower maintenance. However, other plants may be able to brave the storm, as well. Here are some <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/landscaping-for-specific-sites/salt-tolerant-plants.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">salt-tolerant plant</a> recommendations from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS):</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Groundcovers and flowers:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Beach sunflower</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Calendula</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gaillardia</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gopher apple</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Railroad vine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seaside goldenrod</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zinnia</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Grasses:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Fakahatchee grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Muhly grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sea oats</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Vines:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bougainvillea</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Trees and shrubs:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Agaves</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coontie</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Firebush</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hibiscus</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lantana</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Live oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Magnolia</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oleander</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pineapple guava</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sabal palm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saltbush</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saw palmetto</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soapberry</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Southern red cedar</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wax myrtle</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wild coffee</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yaupon</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yucca</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>What about your <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/lawns/turf-types/salt-tolerant-lawngrasses.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">lawn</a>? St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass are good <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/best-grass-types-jacksonville/\">turfgrass choices for Jacksonville</a> and can handle more salt than other grass types.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Planting a tree costs homeowners between <strong>$90</strong> and <strong>$3,212</strong>. Flower bed planting costs between <strong>$861</strong> and <strong>$3,100</strong>. You can save money by planting them yourself, but research the plant thoroughly before planting, so you set it up for success.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Trees\">2. Plant Wind-Tolerant Trees</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Trees are a significant hazard during hurricanes. They could fall on your home, fence, or car, causing costly damage. While no tree is entirely immune to high winds, research from the University of Florida has shown these trees to be most <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/trees-that-can-withstand-hurricanes.html#:~:text=Research%20conducted%20by%20University%20of,or%20blow%20over%20during%20hurricanes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">wind-resistant</a>:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bald cypress</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crapemyrtle</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Live oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sabal palm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sand live oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Southern magnolia</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to know which trees have poor wind resistance? Avoid these species:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Chinese elm</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Laurel oak</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sand pine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water oak</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Planting a tree costs homeowners between <strong>$90</strong> and <strong>$3,212</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Regularly\">3. Maintain and Inspect Your Trees Regularly</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Is your tree at risk of falling? Besides species, tree health is another factor determining which trees survive hurricanes. Sick, diseased, damaged, rotting, and pest-infested trees aren’t in peak condition to face stormy weather. Look for any changes in your tree’s health, and call a certified arborist to assess whether the tree needs to be treated or removed.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if your trees are healthy, pruning and reshaping will improve their wind resistance. Train your young trees to have one dominant trunk and well-spaced branches. To <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/preparing-trees-for-hurricanes.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prepare for a hurricane</a>, contact an arborist to prune any trees over 15 feet tall and remove branches that could pose a danger to your property.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Tree trimming costs between <strong>$227</strong> and <strong>$708</strong>. Want to trim your hedges and bushes as well? Expect to pay between <strong>$56</strong> and <strong>$85</strong> per hour for hedge trimming and <strong>$7</strong> to <strong>$24</strong> per bush or <strong>$45</strong> to <strong>$75</strong> per hour. You can trim small plants yourself, but leave large trees to the pros.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arborists may offer advice on tree trimming or removal for free but charge <strong>$40</strong> to <strong>$550</strong> for in-depth consultations or services performed.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Home\">4. Keep Large Trees Away From Power Lines and Your Home</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"541\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Power-Line.jpg\" alt=\"Power lines and trees and just what are those circle things\" class=\"wp-image-12712\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Power-Line.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Power-Line-300x203.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Power-Line-768x519.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Power-Line-480x325.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/79157069@N03/21117910171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matthew Paul Argall</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trees are much more dangerous near power lines and your house. They could smash through your roof or take out your power. Don’t plant trees or other tall plants too close to your home or power lines, and move or cut down existing trees that pose a danger.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Tree transplants cost between <strong>$229</strong> and <strong>$5,440</strong>. Tree removal costs between <strong>$323</strong> and <strong>$2,089</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Plants\">5. Cover or Wrap Up Plants</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Hardy plants are an excellent first step, but you should also provide extra protection before the storm hits. Wrap trees and large plants with burlap and small plants with a floating row cover. Make sure to secure them to the ground with garden stakes. While these covers may fail in severe hurricanes, they’ll likely reduce some damage in your yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Depending on the size, burlap costs between <strong>$7</strong> and <strong>$180</strong> per roll. Floating row covers cost <strong>$11</strong> to <strong>$240</strong> per cover, with agricultural covers costing even more.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mulches\">6. Use Soft Mulches</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mulch controls weeds in your garden, but hurricanes scatter pieces all over your yard. Avoid hard mulch types like gravel. Strong winds can send them flying through the air and possibly through your windows. Here are some soft mulch types that will cause less damage and be easier to clean up:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bark or wood chips</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cypress mulch</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grass clippings</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hemlock</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Newspaper&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pine bark</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pine needles</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shredded hardwood</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Straw</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Mulch costs between <strong>$45</strong> to <strong>$100</strong> per cubic yard, depending on the type. You also can make mulch for free from grass clippings, pine needles, or newspaper.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Seawall\">7. Build a Seawall</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Flooding is a significant source of damage during hurricane season. A seawall is the first line of defense against rising water levels, redirecting floodwaters away from your property. They are beneficial for properties next to the ocean or rivers. Choose from materials like concrete, wood, steel, and vinyl.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Seawall construction costs between <strong>$215</strong> and <strong>$843</strong> per square foot, depending on the material.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Fencing\">8. Install Sturdy Fencing</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chain-link-fence.jpg\" alt=\"image of a metal chain link fence in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-12711\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chain-link-fence.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chain-link-fence-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chain-link-fence-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chain-link-fence-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chain-link-fence-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1490561\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If those winds are strong enough to knock down trees, they can destroy most fences. Privacy fences often fall because their large surface area takes the brunt of the wind and floodwaters. Concrete and brick fencing may hold up better, but other materials will be more likely to survive if they have gaps to let the elements through. Consider picket, shadowbox, lattice, or louvered designs.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Chain-link and metal fences are your best bet if you want to see your fence still standing after the storm. They might be dented by flying objects, but that repair will be easier than a splintered wooden fence.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Metal fences cost between <strong>$21</strong> and <strong>$57</strong> per linear foot, depending on the type of metal. Chain-link fences, also known as cyclone or hurricane fences, cost between <strong>$12</strong> and <strong>$37</strong> per linear foot.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Hazards\">9. Remove Storm Hazards</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>That comfy lounger on your patio may not be so lovely after it’s been thrown around by the wind and flood waters. Your outdoor furniture and decor could easily be damaged or damage other property. Move anything not bolted down to a secure location, such as a shed or garage, so you won’t need to recover or repair them after the storm.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Nothing if you already have a shed or garage to store your items in.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Clear\">10. Keep Storm Drain Paths Clear</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/30120082286_d296f7477f_k-1.jpg\" alt=\"leaves flowing with water into the drain\" class=\"wp-image-12715\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/30120082286_d296f7477f_k-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/30120082286_d296f7477f_k-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/30120082286_d296f7477f_k-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/30120082286_d296f7477f_k-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/30120082286_d296f7477f_k-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/140641142@N05/30120082286/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dan Keck</a> /&nbsp;Flickr&nbsp;/ <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Public Domain</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Storm surges during the hurricane can flood your yard. That water won’t leave if it doesn’t have a clear path to nearby storm drains. Leaves and debris can clog the drains, causing flooding for you and your neighbors. Keep your yard clean from debris and avoid placing landscaping features between your yard and the drain if they might prevent water flow.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To avoid standing water in a sloped yard, install a French drain. French drains are ditches filled with gravel with a perforated drain pipe underneath. Rather than pool in your yard or create unwanted rivers, the water will follow the French drain to the municipal storm drain. These installations can redirect water away from your foundation and prevent flooding inside your home.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Yard cleanup typically costs between <strong>$153</strong> and <strong>$374</strong> but can cost as much as <strong>$1,059</strong> in extreme cases. French drains cost between <strong>$500</strong> and <strong>$18,000</strong>.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Gutters\">11. Clean Gutters</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Leaving gutters clogged before a hurricane is asking for trouble. To avoid unnecessary flooding, clean your gutters twice a year. It’s best to start with the cleanest slate possible so the leaves don’t pile too high and cause more damage.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Gutter cleaning costs between <strong>$72</strong> and <strong>$424</strong>. Costs will be on the higher end for large and multi-story houses.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Sprinklers\">12. Turn Off Automatic Sprinklers</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"536\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Automatic-Sprinklers.jpg\" alt=\"water coming out of automatic sprinklers\" class=\"wp-image-12713\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Automatic-Sprinklers.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Automatic-Sprinklers-300x201.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Automatic-Sprinklers-768x515.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Automatic-Sprinklers-480x322.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2003-09-28_Lawn_sprinklers_at_NCSSM.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ildar Sagdejev</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Automatic sprinklers make our lives easier most of the year, but more water is the last thing your lawn needs during a hurricane. Your yard will already be saturated for a long while after the storm, and your plants will need to recover from the excess water. You may also want to turn off your water entirely to avoid damage from burst pipes.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost:</strong> None. You will actually save money on your water bill.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Strikes\">Protect Your Jacksonville Home Before a Hurricane Strikes</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hurricanes are a risk to homeowners all over Florida, and Jacksonville is no exception. Because Jacksonville is right on the coast, even a brush with a hurricane can cause major flooding in the city. Some damage is inevitable, but preparedness can save money and time as you pick up the pieces.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>While you can make your landscape more resilient in storms, it can’t protect you. Create an emergency evacuation plan to keep you and your family safe.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How often is Jacksonville hit by hurricanes?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Hurricane prediction isn’t a perfect science. Jacksonville residents should expect a bush or direct hit from a hurricane every two or three years, with direct hits landing every 11 to 12 years. Direct hits cause the most damage, but even a brush can cause significant damage.<br/>   <br/>    </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What time of year do hurricanes hit?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">In Florida, hurricane season falls between June and November, with the peak times in August and October. It’s a good idea to start assessing your hurricane preparedness around this time, so you aren’t scrambling to protect your home.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is Jacksonville prone to flooding?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, and not just from hurricanes. The long rainy season from June to November can cause tributaries and creeks to rise and damage nearby properties. The City of Jacksonville warns that any property in the floodplain will likely be damaged at some point, though other properties are also at risk. <br/>  <br/> <br/>Some hurricane preparations you make in your yard will help with these issues, such as clearing paths to storm drains. However, you’ll likely need to make additional preparations.<br/>  <br/> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"help\">How a Professional Can Help</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You have a lot to check off your hurricane preparedness list to keep your family and property safe. Why not get some help to ease your burden? <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/\">Local landscaping pros</a> can prep your yard for hurricanes and clean up afterward.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/paparutzi/5091579642/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">christina rutz</a> /&nbsp;Flickr&nbsp;/&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Jacksonville","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/1789c/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/107df/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 320w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/293e9/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 500w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/f2cbb/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 800w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/1789c/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 960w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/c26c2/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/1dd6e/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/67b76/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 320w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/8df11/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 500w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/98a65/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 800w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/1dd6e/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 960w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/3cc96/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Jacksonville | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Hurricanes wreak havoc if you aren’t prepared. 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