![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2017-08-03_11_28_02_Crape_Myrtle_with_lavender_flowers_along_Stone_Heather_Drive_in_the_Chantilly_Highlands_section_of_Oak_Hill_Fairfax_County_Vi-1.jpg\")
Historically, Miami has the greatest chance of a hurricane impact. In this colorful city, residents recognize the power and destruction of these great storms and celebrate their strength through local sports teams like the Miami Hurricanes. While fans of “The U” celebrate on-field destruction, your South Florida lawn is another story. Here are some hurricane-resistant […]
\n","content":"\nHistorically, Miami has the greatest chance of a hurricane impact. In this colorful city, residents recognize the power and destruction of these great storms and celebrate their strength through local sports teams like the Miami Hurricanes. While fans of “The U” celebrate on-field destruction, your South Florida lawn is another story. Here are some hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas to help you prepare your landscape for hurricane season.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Miami Landscaping
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSustained winds of 90 mph or more will uproot large trees, and even Category 1 hurricanes have sustained winds between 74 to 95 mph. With 41% of all U.S. hurricanes making landfall in Florida, it is important to plant wind-resistant trees to protect your home and neighborhood from flying branches and falling trees.
\n\n\n\nWind-resistant Miami tree species include:
\n\n\n\nTrees to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of wind-resistant trees:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The average cost of a hurricane-resistant tree varies depending on the size and type of tree, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local nursery to purchase your tree, you can expect to spend between $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\nLike most Miami residents, you have a storm preparedness checklist ready for hurricane season, but no matter how much you plan, you know there is no way to protect your home and yard from storm damage completely. Selecting wind-resistant trees and thoroughly planning your hurricane-resistant landscape increases your plants’ survival chances during a storm.
\n\n\n\nSome things to consider as you plan your hurricane-resistant landscape include:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: kathyclark777 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nNative South Florida plants are the most salt and wind-tolerant plants you can include in your landscaping project, and they have the added benefit of being incredibly low-maintenance. Native plants promote a healthy ecosystem and thrive in Miami’s tropical climate. These plants are hands-off and resistant to local insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Miami native plants to choose from. Take a look at some of the most salt-tolerant examples:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\nHealthy trees are sturdy trees, and one of the best ways to maintain healthy trees is to perform routine maintenance, including pruning and trimming. Be sure to keep your hedges, shrubs, and trees pruned or trimmed to cut down on the number and size of branches flying across your yard during a tropical storm.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of landscape maintenance:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional tree trimming and landscape maintenance costs between $315 to $700, depending on the size of your yard and the number of trees and shrubs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ronstik / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nMulch comes in many forms and colors. It is an inexpensive DIY job with enormous benefits for your Miami lawn. Mulch is a loose material typically made of organic matter like compost, tree bark, and wood chips that helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from heat.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch is the best option for your South Florida landscape. It adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes, but you will need to add a fresh layer annually. Inorganic mulches like gravel, river rock, and landscape glass are low-maintenance and durable, but the hard pieces ricochet off windows and siding during a hurricane.
\n\n\n\nBest mulch for your Miami landscape:
\n\n\n\nMulch to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag. If your landscaping project requires a lot of mulch, you can often purchase it in bulk to save money.
\n\n\n\nStatues, flower containers, bird baths, small fountains, and patio furniture are all great additions that add a personal touch to your South Florida oasis. Unfortunately, these objects are no match for hurricane-force winds. Be sure to remove all movable storm hazards to minimize damage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: There is no cost to move your landscaping decorations or furniture indoors. However, if you are short on space and want to maximize your storm preparedness, you can rent a storage unit for around $125 per month.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-4-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ryandeberardinisphotos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nLike trees, not all fences are created equal, especially for wind resistance. Many Miami fence contractors specialize in hurricane-resistant fencing and reinforcement. It is important to note that wood fences are not the best choice for wind-resistant fencing. However, if the sustainability and natural beauty of wood are something you cannot live without, be sure to choose a slatted fence design to minimize wind resistance.
\n\n\n\nTake a look at some of the most wind-resistant fence types:
\n\n\n\nFence types to avoid:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional fence installation costs between $1,330 to $5,550, depending on size, materials, and location.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/South-Beach-Miami-Florida.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Phillip Pessar / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe average elevation of Miami is only 16 feet above sea level, and thanks to the city’s tropical climate and sandy beaches, waterfront homes are popular in the luxury real estate market. When planning your hurricane-resistant landscape, it is important to consider your proximity to the water. Building a seawall around your property protects your home and landscape from tumultuous surf, flooding, and erosion.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular hurricane-resistant seawall materials:
\n\n\n\nMaterials to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a seawall:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, a new seawall costs $25,000 for professional installation.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-5-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: nicolamargaret / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nStorm drains are an integral part of your overall Miami landscape. Unfortunately, many homeowners often overlook these necessities because they offer little aesthetic value. Yard waste and organic debris can clog your drains, leading to increased flooding and water damage. Be sure to keep paths to your drains clear by maintaining your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of proper drainage:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional French drain installation costs between $1,650 to $12,250, depending on location, size, and excavation needs.
\n\n\n\nThe best hurricane-resistant grasses for your Miami landscape are St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass. Both types of grass tolerate saltwater spray and are great warm-season grasses, but Zoysiagrass stands up better to heavy traffic.
Yes. Most artificial grass is wind-resistant and can withstand up to 50 inches of rain per hour. Most hurricanes generate precipitation at a rate of 6 inches per hour.
Organic mulch provides moisture retention and nutrients for your plants. Experts recommend laying new mulch on top of your existing mulch annually in the spring.
Hurricane-resistant landscaping is one more thing you can check off on your storm preparedness checklist. While you focus on other areas of preparation, consider letting Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company that can handle your lawn care needs.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Jollyroger33133 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"9 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Miami","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.6551724137931034,"src":"/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/1789c/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/107df/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.jpg 320w,\n/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/293e9/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.jpg 500w,\n/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/f2cbb/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.jpg 800w,\n/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/1789c/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.jpg 960w,\n/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/c26c2/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/1dd6e/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/67b76/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.webp 320w,\n/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/8df11/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.webp 500w,\n/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/98a65/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.webp 800w,\n/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/1dd6e/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.webp 960w,\n/static/6c248e067825bbc850cb0e25ded1cd83/3cc96/Grove-Isle-Miami-Florida.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Miami | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Worry less about your storm preparedness with these hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for Miami, including the estimated cost of each."}}},{"node":{"id":"51baf8a4-43de-5e29-844c-efcfb910aeb7","slug":"best-lawn-types-milwaukee","path":"/lawn-care/wi/milwaukee/best-lawn-types-milwaukee/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"b1cda10d-ab68-5c45-b93c-b382b813fb0e","name":"Milwaukee","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wi/milwaukee/"},{"id":"9503671f-e071-545d-b382-450feba6b3a6","name":"Wisconsin","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wi/"}],"date":"July 29th, 2022","excerpt":"After walking across the grass at Lake Park or enjoying the Oak Leaf Trail, you may want to take some of that natural green beauty home with you. We’ve made it easy for you to invite Milwaukee’s organic greenery into your personal space. We highlight the 4 best grass types for Milwaukee’s multiple months of […]
\n","content":"\nAfter walking across the grass at Lake Park or enjoying the Oak Leaf Trail, you may want to take some of that natural green beauty home with you. We’ve made it easy for you to invite Milwaukee’s organic greenery into your personal space. We highlight the 4 best grass types for Milwaukee’s multiple months of shady skies, cool temperatures, and freezing winters.
\n\n\n\nWhether you’re starting a new lawn or improving an existing one, you have two categories of grass to choose from: warm-season and cool-season. Cool-season grasses are the best selection for the Milwaukee area.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses green up and grow when the weather is warm, which is between late spring and early summer. Cool-season grasses green up sooner in spring than warm-season grasses and retain their green color longer in Milwaukee. Cool-season grasses thrive best when air temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees. Warm-season grasses go brown and dormant in the winter, while cool-season grasses go dormant later in the winter than warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses were built for the Milwaukee climate, where temperatures are usually between 18 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit. The grass survives Milwaukee’s below 40-degree winter cold. Since cool-season grass goes dormant when the weather is consistently below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, it may retain its colors through part of the Milwaukee winter.
\n\n\n\nHere are the four best types of cool-season grass for your Milwaukee home:
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is the most commonly used grass in Wisconsin lawns. It’s great for lawns with dead spots because it expands and develops new grass to cover up unsightly bald patches. Although it goes brown faster than most other grass varieties during a drought, Kentucky bluegrass can stay alive for up to 60 days in this condition.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass has a strong dark green color and lives for the moist, cool weather of Milwaukee. It requires a lot of maintenance, but it helps prevent erosion. If you don’t mind the high fertilizer needs, and enjoy the exercise from mowing, Kentucky bluegrass will work well for your home.
\n\n\n\nThe long months of cloudy Milwaukee skies are probably more than enough shade for this grass, as it has moderate shade tolerance. This variety grows best on properties that get a lot of sun. With its moderate foot traffic tolerance and soft texture, Kentucky bluegrass is a good option for outdoor events.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is more tolerant of the snow mold that is sometimes found on Wisconsin lawns than tall fescue and perennial ryegrass, but not as resistant as fine fescue.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Used in most pastures in the northeastern part of the country because it tolerates heavy grazing. Varieties developed for lawn use need more watering, dethatching, and fertilization than varieties used for animal feeding.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red-Fescue-a-species-of-fine-fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a great choice to stand up against the Milwaukee snow. Fine fescue is more resistant to snow mold than Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass. For the most tolerant variety, use hard fescue. Sheep fescue and red fescue are moderately tolerant, while chewings fescue will leave your lawn vulnerable to the gray and pink snow mold that have historically damaged Milwaukee lawns.
\n\n\n\nSince it’s the most shade-tolerant cool-season grass, it will grow better on properties with a lot of trees or buildings blocking the sunlight than most other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is often found blended with other grasses and is a good choice for lawns with areas that need reseeding. But your yard may appear a little multicolored, as fine fescue can have a green color lighter than other grasses, and even has a blueish-greenish look.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue has a soft texture, but low to moderate traffic tolerance. It’s not the best grass for regular badminton games even though it provides a soft cushion for falls. The tradeoff is that it’s low maintenance. If you need a lawn that looks well-kept and manicured without a lot of work, and you don’t have a lot of activity in your yard, fine fescue grass is well-suited for your Milwaukee home.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Fine fescue is prone to thatch. It may require dethatching every few years. Chewings is the most shade-tolerant fine fescue species but the most susceptible to snow mold.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHomeowners love to mix this grass because it germinates quickly and produces a full, green canvas. This quick growth is ideal for the short Milwaukee summers.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass has a low tolerance to heat, cold, and drought, but works well with other grasses that are adapted to the cold, like Kentucky bluegrass. It’s recommended that perennial ryegrass is combined with other grasses and not used predominantly.
\n\n\n\nAlthough perennial ryegrass prefers soil with good drainage, it tolerates some poor drainage, making it a good choice for the Milwaukee area. Milwaukee soil ranges from being poorly drained to well-drained.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass has moderate maintenance needs. It requires less mowing than tall fescue and is more tolerant to traffic than any of the other three types of grass. It’s perfect for homeowners who love to throw weekly lawn parties or host outdoor play dates regularly. This is the grass for back-to-back hide-and-seek games. It doesn’t tolerate the shade well, so if your yard is usually a host to the sun’s rays, perennial ryegrass is a good selection.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Mix with Kentucky bluegrass for a more disease-resistant and traffic-resistant lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe wide leaves of tall fescue grass may lead many to mistake it for weeds. It’s cold and shade-tolerant, and the most heat tolerant of all the cool-season grasses. It grows slower than perennial ryegrass, so if you’re looking to establish a lawn more quickly, a blend of perennial ryegrass and one of the other grasses would be better.
\n\n\n\nWhen other grasses are losing their color in winter, tall fescue remains green for longer. This makes it an ideal choice for Milwaukans that like a little green peaking out beneath frosted grass and snow. It’s also a good choice if you need a reason to work in the yard regularly, as it requires frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nWith its coarse texture, moderate foot traffic tolerance, and tendency to slowly recover from damage, tall fescue is not the best choice for yards full of children playing.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when the grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Remains green during the winter, depending on the variety. Grows slower than perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to plant grass seed is between mid-August to mid-September. The warm soil and cooler air temperatures during this time of year help with seed growth. This gives the seed several months to germinate before the cold winter temperatures.
Cool-season grasses go dormant when the soil temperature stays below 45 degrees Fahrenheit consistently. They also go dormant during the summer if it is dry too long or gets too hot. Watering the grass in the summer helps prevent it from going into dormancy and, fortunately, Milwaukee doesn’t get extremely hot.
Fine fescue grasses are low-maintenance. This drought-resistant grass has less mowing, fertilization, and watering needs than other cool-season grasses.
Each type of grass has its own tolerances and conditions for the best growth. Look for a grass type that fits your yard’s properties and your lifestyle. If your lawn has a lot of trees or buildings casting a lot of shade, you’ll want grass that tolerates the shade, such as fine fescue. If you’re prone to experiencing snow mold on your lawn, which can be severely damaging, choose a fine fescue variety like hard fescue.
\n\n\n\nYour soil type, foot traffic, and how much time you want to spend taking care of your lawn all factor into the decision of which type of grass to select. If you’re the house in the neighborhood where children are routinely playing a game of tag, perennial ryegrass is your best choice.
\n\n\n\nPick a grass type that allows you to enjoy the theaters and art galleries in the Historic Third Ward for as long as you desire. That may mean picking a low-maintenance grass and staying away from one that requires frequent mowing and high fertilization, like Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nCall a Milwaukee lawn care professional to get help maintaining a green and thriving lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Hilda and Gustav Pabst House / Lightburst / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Milwaukee","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4962593516209477,"src":"/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/1789c/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg","srcSet":"/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/107df/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 320w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/293e9/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 500w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/f2cbb/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 800w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/1789c/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 960w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/c26c2/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/1dd6e/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/67b76/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 320w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/8df11/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 500w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/98a65/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 800w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/1dd6e/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 960w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/3cc96/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Milwaukee","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want a lush, green lawn? This guide covers the four best grass types for Milwaukee, including fine fescue and perennial ryegrass."}}},{"node":{"id":"e1895252-142c-52f8-9eef-cbe24b41612b","slug":"best-grass-types-columbus-ohio","path":"/lawn-care/oh/best-grass-types-columbus-ohio/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5eab8b19-684d-573f-929d-53dda702846c","name":"Columbus","count":9,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/columbus/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"May 4th, 2021","excerpt":"If you’re looking for new grass on your capital city lawn, we have four choices for you to consider: Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescues. Columbus, Ohio, lawns need cool-season grasses to endure the wide temperature swings throughout the year, but after that, the choice is yours. Here are some things to […]
\n","content":"\nIf you’re looking for new grass on your capital city lawn, we have four choices for you to consider: Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescues.
\n\n\n\nColumbus, Ohio, lawns need cool-season grasses to endure the wide temperature swings throughout the year, but after that, the choice is yours.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things to consider before grabbing the first bag of cool-season grass you see at the home supply store:
\n\n\n\nIf you like to host get-togethers or flag football games on your lawn, consider a grass with a high foot traffic tolerance. Shade is another big consideration for lawns. If you have partial shade in your lawn, you’ll likely need a mix with sun-shade tolerance.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a closer look at each of these four best grass types for Columbus, Ohio, lawns:
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a beautiful but high-maintenance lawn. It is often found in a mix with other grass species on this list. It requires full sun and needs regular watering to maintain a healthy, green look.
\n\n\n\nIf you have flower beds that border your lawn, put concrete or metal edging around them. Kentucky bluegrass rhizomes have a reputation for spreading and will tunnel underground to start growing new grass in your flower beds.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
Spreads by: Rhizomes
Shade Tolerance: Low
Drought tolerance: Moderate to High*
Foot traffic tolerance: Moderate, but will recuperate fast due to its network of rhizomes.
Maintenance Needs: High
Mowing Height: 2” – 2 1/2”
Potential for Disease: Moderate to high
Other Notes: Kentucky bluegrass is susceptible to grubs and may be susceptible to thinning in early summer. Too much nitrogen or water leads to a high level of thatch, so annual aeration is sometimes necessary to keep this in check.
\n\n\n\n* This grass will go dormant if not watered regularly. However, it has an excellent ability to recover from drought. This is due to its network of rhizomes that help it stay alive during drought and recover quickly once watering resumes.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is often combined with Kentucky bluegrass and has excellent foot traffic tolerance. Like Kentucky bluegrass, it prefers full sun and has a moderate to high maintenance requirement.
\n\n\n\nSince it has no stolons or rhizomes, perennial ryegrass will not form thatch, which is helpful, especially if it is used in a mix with Kentucky bluegrass. It will develop a deep root system and therefore has a moderate drought tolerance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
Spreads by: No stolons or rhizomes. Bare patches will need to be re-seeded.
Shade Tolerance: Low – requires sun
Drought tolerance: Moderate
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance Needs: Moderate to high
Mowing Height: 2” – 3”
Potential for Disease: High
Other Notes: A sharp mower blade is required to cut through perennial ryegrass’s sturdy leaves. Endophyte-enhanced seed may help to reduce insect pressure.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a low-maintenance grass with a high foot traffic tolerance, turf-type tall fescue is worth considering. This cool-season grass forms deep roots and can withstand most Ohio droughts with little to no watering.
\n\n\n\nUse an improved variety of tall fescue for the best results. (Kentucky 31 is not recommended for home lawns.)
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
Spreads by: Depends on the variety. Most varieties are bunching. Some varieties have short rhizomes.
Shade Tolerance: Partial shade
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance Needs: Low
Mowing Height: 2.5” – 3.5”
Potential for Disease: Low to medium
Other Notes: Use a blend of two or three cultivars if you’re not mixing with another grass species. Excessive water or fertilization can lead to pest and disease issues, but endophyte-enhanced seed can help reduce insect pressure.
\n\n\n\nFine fescues grow well in acidic soil and have a low potential for thatch. Fine fescues also require little nitrogen, which furthers their reputation as a relatively low-maintenance grass. Fine fescues often come in grass mixes with other species, such as Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
Spreads by: This is a bunching grass — no stolons or rhizomes. Creeping red fescue is an exception and has short rhizomes.
Shade Tolerance: Partial shade
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: Low
Maintenance Needs: Low to moderate
Mowing Height: 2” – 3”
Potential for Disease: Low to moderate
Other Notes: Consider endophyte-enhanced seed. Endophytes are a type of fungus that repels billbugs, sod webworms, and chinch bugs, reducing insect pressure in the lawn.
\n\n\n\nWhichever of the four grass types you choose, you should have a green lawn ready for outdoor cookouts, games of flag football, and able to weather the cooler winters common in Columbus, Ohio.
\n\n\n\nWant a second opinion on the best grass type for your Columbus lawn — or someone to mow your grass? Hire a lawn care pro who can help you choose and install the ideal grass seed for your lawn’s needs or who can keep your yard looking fit and trim.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Dan Keck | Flickr | CC0 1.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Columbus Lawns","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/1789c/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/107df/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 320w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/293e9/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 500w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/f2cbb/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 800w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/1789c/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 960w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/c26c2/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/1dd6e/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/67b76/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 320w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/8df11/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 500w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/98a65/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 800w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/1dd6e/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 960w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/3cc96/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Columbus Lawns | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"What are the best grass types for Columbus, Ohio, homes? Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescues."}}},{"node":{"id":"77439955-8c92-58fd-ad71-ddecdf5222fd","slug":"best-grass-types-cincinnati","path":"/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/best-grass-types-cincinnati/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Michelle Selzer is a web developer, technical writer, and Linux enthusiast from the hills of Tennessee. Her hobbies include collecting toys, hiking to waterfalls, and writing short fan-fiction stories.","name":"Michelle Selzer","id":"ce795c2b-f287-56e6-a311-f91628ed456a","path":"/author/michelle-selzer/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05a59712d75dec705cc9870b2f909e7?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"cd94a504-1dfc-52f0-ae16-ea162e4c1f6a","name":"Cincinnati","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"May 4th, 2021","excerpt":"Cincinnati is known for its hilly terrain, abundant breweries, and world-class chili. However, when not at Skyline Chilli or Rhinegeist Brewery, many locals enjoy spending time outdoors. Picking the perfect grass for your Cincy home will beautify your yard and improve your outdoor living experience. For example, if you enjoy playing soccer, you should choose […]
\n","content":"\nCincinnati is known for its hilly terrain, abundant breweries, and world-class chili. However, when not at Skyline Chilli or Rhinegeist Brewery, many locals enjoy spending time outdoors. Picking the perfect grass for your Cincy home will beautify your yard and improve your outdoor living experience. For example, if you enjoy playing soccer, you should choose a grass variety that tolerates heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nWe researched and compiled a list of the best Cincinnati grass types. We break down each variety and explain its strengths and weaknesses. As a result, this guide empowers you to choose the best grass for your Cincinnati home.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMost Cincinnati locals prefer cool-season grass because it can survive and flourish through long winters. Cool-season grasses grow best in the fall and spring and may go dormant in July and August, especially during dry spells. In addition, they usually go dormant in the winter once the soil is colder than 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass.jpg\")
Kentucky Bluegrass
Photo Credit: Ethan2039 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
The majority of lawns throughout Cincinnati have Kentucky bluegrass. It’s the most popular lawn grass in the United States and boasts the highest cold tolerance of all cool-season grasses. Homeowners love its lush appearance and appreciate how quickly it recovers after distress. In fact, the Great American Ballpark even uses a Kentucky bluegrass blend.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, Kentucky bluegrass is also high maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil, but Cincinnati’s soil contains a lot of clay, so it doesn’t always drain well. However, aerating your lawn will improve drainage and help you maintain healthy turf. Additionally, Kentucky bluegrass requires lots of water, sunshine, dethatching, and fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: During the summer it needs about 2 to 3 inches of water per week. Be sure to fertilize in the fall and as needed throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nPerennial Ryegrass
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Another popular turfgrass is perennial ryegrass. Its color and texture resemble Kentucky bluegrass, but it takes less time to establish and can handle heavier foot traffic. So, it is often used to overseed recreational turf.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass loves sunshine but many cultivars can tolerate partial shade. It prefers loamy soils that are well-drained and fertile, so be sure to aerate and fertilize. However, you probably won’t have to worry about dethatching because perennial ryegrass doesn’t develop significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Although it goes dormant in the summer, you should still water the lawn.
\n\n\n\nCincinnati homeowners who want a low-maintenance lawn with fine blades choose fine fescues, such as creeping red and chewing fescue. Fine fescue doesn’t require a lot of fertilizer, water, or mowing and thrives in cool and humid climates. However, it prefers well-drained soil so be sure to aerate. Although some residents have a pure fescue lawn, many homeowners prefer fine fescue blends.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a lot of trees in your yard, consider fine fescue, because it is the most shade tolerant cool-season grass. However, it isn’t suitable for sports or keg parties because fine fescue doesn’t like heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: You may need to dethatch the lawn every couple of years.
\n\n\n\nAnother low-maintenance turfgrass is tall fescue. Its coarse deep green blades don’t require a lot of fertilizer or water but require more mowing than fine fescue. And although tall fescue prefers cool temperatures, it is the most heat-tolerant cool-season grass, so it will survive a summer heat wave.
\n\n\n\nHowever, tall fescue is intolerant to foot traffic and slowly recovers when damaged. Although it isn’t recommended for outdoor sports or doggy playgrounds, some modern cultivars are better suited to handle foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Tall fescue is susceptible to a fungus called Acremonium coenophialum, which harms horses.
\n\n\n\nYes, although it is easier for cool-season grass to thrive in Cincinnati. Some Cincinnatians prefer cold-tolerant warm-season grasses, such as:
● Zoysia japonica
● Pensacola bahiagrass
● Yukon Bermudagrass
Aeration is part of Cincinnati’s fall lawn care checklist and the best months to aerate are September and October. Because the local soil contains a lot of clay, you must aerate to ensure proper soil drainage and prevent the soil from becoming compacted.
The best time to overseed your Cincy lawn is early Fall, within 48 hours of aerating. This is also a good time to apply fertilizer.
Spring lawn care in Cincinnati includes the following:
● Raking and removing debris: When the snow melts, wet yard waste traps moisture in your lawn, making it susceptible to snow mold.
● Resume mowing: Once the grass is about 2 inches tall, it is time to resume regular mowing. Never mow more than one-third of the grass’s height, and follow cutting guidelines for your turf species.
● Pre-emergent herbicides: Weeds tend to sprout in the spring.
● Pest control: Many of Cincinnati’s yard pests surface in the spring.
When selecting vegetation for your Cincinnati home, consider the following:
\n\n\n\nThe best way to maintain a lush lawn free of weeds, pests, and diseases is to hire a lawn care pro in Cincinnati. In addition to maintaining your property, landscaping professionals can help you maintain an alluring landscape that thrives in Cincy’s soil.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: David Ohmer / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
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\n","content":"\nHomeowners frequently turn to sod for a quick lawn makeover, but is this a project you can DIY? Absolutely. This article will detail how you can transform your lawn into a lush, green carpet in five easy steps.
\n\n\n\nA few weeks before you plan to lay the sod, get a soil test. You can get an at-home soil test kit or take a sample to your local Cooperative Extension office. Allow a few weeks for processing if you use your Extension service.
\n\n\n\nHere’s why soil testing is a must before installing sod: Your sod needs a good soil structure for drainage and root development in addition to a balance of nutrients. A good soil test will determine your soil’s pH as well.
\n\n\n\n![\"Measuring](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_messradsuricata.jpg\")
Use a measuring tape, measuring wheel, or count your paces to determine how many square feet you’ll need to sod.
\n\n\n\nThere is no industry standard for how many square feet of grass fit on a pallet. It varies from about 400 to 700 square feet, depending on the cut. Sod comes in rectangles (16” x 24”), mini rolls (40” x 18”), or large rolls (60” x 24” or 80” x 18”).
\n\n\n\nContact a local supplier or garden center to work out the details of your sod shipment. Experts recommend laying new sod within 24-48 hours after it has been dug up from the sod farm. Some experts recommend laying it within 24 hours or less. Ask your supplier company what they recommend.
\n\n\n\nGot shade? Ask your sod company for advice before you buy. Sod is generally grown in full sun and does not always perform well in partial shade.
\n\n\n\nDIY enthusiasts should allow two weekends for the sod job — one to do the site work and another to put down the sod. If you have a few friends, the job may take less time.
\n\n\n\nIn any case, choose a schedule that works for you, and be sure to gather your equipment ahead of time. Tools, equipment, and supplies you may need include:
\n\n\n\n✓ Sod cutter
✓ Rototiller
✓ Garden rake (bow rake)
✓ Garden hose or sprinkler
✓ Compost, sand, lime, and starter fertilizer, depending on your lawn’s needs
✓ Retractable utility knife (razor knife, or any sharp knife)
✓ Personal protective equipment:
If you need to rent a sod cutter or rototiller, reserve one ahead of time from your local tool rental or home improvement store.
\n\n\n\nFinally, don’t forget to check the weather forecast. You’ll want nice weather while you work.
\n\n\n\nBeg, borrow, or rent a sod cutter to remove your existing grass. If you have a small area to re-sod, you can use a shovel or hand-held sod cutter. (This is where those friends come in handy.)
\n\n\n\nAfter you have removed the existing lawn, use a rototiller to till down 6 to 8 inches. This will give your sod a nice, loose soil so it can easily put down deep roots.
\n\n\n\nDepending on the results of your soil test, add 1 to 2 inches of organic matter as a soil amendment. Compost helps the soil structure and adds nutrients, and sand is used to help with drainage if the soil is too dense.
\n\n\n\nSpread this organic matter throughout the lawn. Rototill in the new organic matter, then level it out with a lawn rake, correcting high and low spots.
\n\n\n\nAlso, make sure your grade is always sloping away from buildings.
\n\n\n\nAdd lime, if needed, and put down starter fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nFinally, lightly water the soil so it is damp.
\n\n\n\nThe day has arrived! Choose the longest straight edge in the yard as your starting point. From there, you’ll lay the sod like you mop a floor: Start at the farthest edge and work your way out. This ensures you don’t walk on the sod as you are working.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: If you are working on a slope, lay the grass across the slope in a horizontal manner instead of down the slope vertically. Use sod staples or biodegradable sod stakes to hold everything in place.
\n\n\n\nFirst Row: Lay down each roll, making sure you are abutting the grass tightly against the fence, wall, boundary line, etc. Make sure you press down the grass with your hands to ensure good contact with the soil (don’t walk on it). This will reduce the chance of air pockets between sod and soil.
\n\n\n![\"Fresh](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/3471068661_c3bc73ede6_w.jpg\")
Second Row: Cut the first roll of sod in half. This will ensure your joints are staggered. Think of laying the rows as if you were laying bricks — you want to stagger the seams.
\n\n\n\nAs you lay down each strip of sod, make sure to press the side seams together with your hands (don’t overlap). This will help the grass to look seamless and will prevent the sod from drying out.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: When you need to cut a piece of sod, cut from the underside — not the grass side. This allows for an easier, cleaner cut.
\n\n\n\nContinue until the yard is complete.
\n\n\n\nUse topsoil to fill in any gaps in the seams, and roll the sod with a lawn roller. (Ask your sod supplier what they recommend. Some roll the lawn; some don’t.)
\n\n\n\nWatering recommendations for new sod can vary. Ask your sod supplier or a local pro what they recommend for your grass type and the time of year.
\n\n\n\nCommon advice looks something like this:
\n\n\n\nSome pros recommend watering to a depth of 3 to 4 inches while others recommend a depth of 6 to 8 inches, at least to begin with. (Use a soil probe.) Ask your sod company to determine what is best for your sod. Program your irrigation system to water at the recommended rate. Make sure your sprinkler heads are set to cover all areas of the new lawn.
\n\n\n\nFertilize your lawn with more starter fertilizer about one month after you have put down the turf. Continue on a regular fertilizing schedule going forward.
\n\n\n\nWait at least three weeks to mow. You can ask the sod company how long your particular variety of sod takes to reach mowing height.
\n\n\n\nIn general, use a walk-behind mower (sharp blade, please!) for the first mow. Don’t cut off more than one-third of the grass, and bag the clippings just this once.
\n\n\n\nYou can compost it. Yes, put it in the compost pile with other yard and food waste to create new soil for your lawn or ornamental beds.
\n\n\n\nSod experts recommend staying off the grass for three to four weeks, which is around the time of the first mowing. Ask your sod company how long they recommend to keep off your new grass.
\n\n\n\nSome say to put a garden hose around the curve and cut it with a utility knife. Others find it easier to put the straight edges of the sod against the straight edges of the flower bed and cut a seam along the curve, removing the excess.
\n\n\n\nLaying sod is a year-round business. Having said that, there are great and not-so-great times depending on your climate and grass type.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses are best sodded in the fall, while warm-season grasses are best sodded in early summer. If these times of the year don’t work for you, contact your local sod supplier or Cooperative Extension agent for advice.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re interested in new sod, you’re looking for a fast solution to your lawn woes. Laying new sod isn’t rocket science; in fact, it’s a perfect job for a novice DIYer. However, the devil is in the details. Do your homework, and follow these five easy steps to ensure your thick, green carpet lasts for years to come.
\n\n\n\nAnd if you would rather a pro install your sod, we can help you to find a lawn care or landscaping pro near you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: george kiwi / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"How to Lay Sod in 5 Easy Steps","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/1789c/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.jpg","srcSet":"/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/107df/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.jpg 320w,\n/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/293e9/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.jpg 500w,\n/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/f2cbb/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.jpg 800w,\n/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/1789c/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.jpg 960w,\n/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/c26c2/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/1dd6e/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/67b76/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.webp 320w,\n/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/8df11/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.webp 500w,\n/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/98a65/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.webp 800w,\n/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/1dd6e/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.webp 960w,\n/static/43f7f41b51a65c7e65195c5f591e8fe2/3cc96/rsz_4982403097_1d3b47d467_o.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Lay Sod in 5 Easy Steps | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"07c6bc97-9b29-5766-a156-6ed229ff6f12","slug":"best-time-to-mow-lawn","path":"/lawn-care/best-time-to-mow-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"March 21st, 2021","excerpt":"You probably have a favorite time of day to cut the grass, but is that the best time to mow your lawn? Industry professionals agree that the best time of day to cut the lawn is midmorning between 8-10 a.m. The second-best time for lawn mowing is late afternoon between 4-6 p.m. Why are these […]
\n","content":"\nYou probably have a favorite time of day to cut the grass, but is that the best time to mow your lawn? Industry professionals agree that the best time of day to cut the lawn is midmorning between 8-10 a.m.
\n\n\n\nThe second-best time for lawn mowing is late afternoon between 4-6 p.m.
\n\n\n\nWhy are these the optimum times to mow your grass? Midmorning and late afternoon cuts allow the grass enough time to recover before the hot sun or evening dew, protecting it from too much evaporation at midday or exposure to fungus at night.
\n\n\n\n✓ The grass is dry.
✓ The grass has plenty of time to recover before the heat of the day or the dew at night.
✓ Equipment is less likely to overheat if used during cooler times of day.
✓ YOU are less likely to overheat.
✓ You won’t disturb the neighbors (unless they have different work/sleep schedules).
An added bonus of a midmorning mow: You’ll get to smell your freshly cut grass all day long.
\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_shutterstock_1119073862.jpg\")
The hottest time of the day is the worst time to mow your lawn, and that also is probably not your favorite time to be pushing a mower.
\n\n\n\nSo, when is the hottest time of the day? The middle of the day, before and after high noon, is generally the hottest. During this time, the grass experiences stress due to the hot temperatures. Since mowing also places stress on your lawn, avoid cutting your grass during these midday hours.
\n\n\n\nThe second worst time to mow is early morning before 8 a.m.
\n\n\n\nHere’s why: Mowing in the early morning, or at any time when you have wet grass or morning dew, will leave clumps of grass on the lawn and may even clog your mower. Mowing when the grass is wet can cause ruts in the lawn and may even pull the grass from the roots instead of shearing the blades of grass.
\n\n\n\nAnd when you’re all done mowing dewy or wet grass? You will have to clean those wet clumps of grass from your mower blade — not fun.
\n\n\n\n![\"As](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_1shutterstock_277566824.jpg\")
Besides time of day, the height of your grass also can determine when it’s the best time to mow. Mowing when your grass is too short could harm your lawn, and cutting too-long grass will take more of your time.
\n\n\n\nThese are general guidelines for when is the best time to mow your grass based on various common types of grass:
\n\n\n\n| WARM SEASON GRASS TYPES | INCHES |
| Bermuda | 1.5” – 3” |
| Centipede | 1” – 2” |
| St. Augustine | 2” – 4” |
| Zoysia | 1” – 2.5” |
| COOL SEASON GRASS TYPES | INCHES |
| Fine Fescue | 1.5” – 4” |
| Kentucky Bluegrass | 2” – 3.5” |
| Perennial Ryegrass | 2.5”- 3.5” |
| Tall Fescue | 2”- 4” |
There are many other factors that affect your mowing height:
\n\n\n\n✓ Sun or shade (Cut shaded areas higher by about half an inch)
✓ Periods of stress (Cut higher and less often during drought or extreme heat.)
✓ Time of year
✓ Grass use (lawn vs. athletic field vs. golf green)
✓ Climate
✓ Type of equipment (push mower vs. rotary mower)
To get local, professional advice, search for and contact your nearest Cooperative Extension Service office.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_shutterstock_197046728.jpg\")
The best day of the week to mow your lawn is probably one of your days off work. However, if you work the night shift and get off at 8 a.m. or go in early and get off at 4 or 5 p.m., you could get out the mower after work and cut your grass at an optimal time.
\n\n\n\nThere are great and not-so-great times to mow the lawn. In the end, the best time to mow (or do any lawn care, for that matter) is whenever you can get the job done.
\n\n\n\nIf that happens to be a morning from 8-10 a.m. or an afternoon from 4-6 p.m., know that your grass has been mowed at a time that is optimal for its health and recovery.
\n\n\n\nIf you would rather not worry about mowing your grass at the perfect time, you can contract that out to lawn care professionals. We can help you to find a lawn care mowing crew near you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Shutterstock
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