![\"Bermudagrass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Weeds, Disease and Drought are the common lawn killers in San Antonio. In this piece we’ll cover how to deal with each. Common Weeds in San Antonio Weeds in San Antonio, Texas can be divided into two categories, grassy and broadleaf. Broadleaf weeds include Henbit, Dandelion, Thistle, Chickweed, and Purslane. If your lawn is too […]
\n","content":"\nWeeds, Disease and Drought are the common lawn killers in San Antonio. In this piece we’ll cover how to deal with each.
\n\n\n\nWeeds in San Antonio, Texas can be divided into two categories, grassy and broadleaf. Broadleaf weeds include Henbit, Dandelion, Thistle, Chickweed, and Purslane. If your lawn is too fraught with these, it’s recommended you contact a lawn service professional for assistance.
\n\n\n\nHenbit can be identified by the purple at the top of the plant, and Dandelion by its bright yellow flower. Thistle is a prickly bush that can grow several feet tall, and chickweed has white, star-shaped flowers all over it. Purslane has flat, paddle-shaped leaves, and can bloom year round in your lawn.
\n\n\n\nGrassy weeds look more like regular grass but can be just as harmful to your lawn. These include Rescue grass, Bluegrass, Crabgrass, and Dallisgrass. Rescuegrass is most common in Central Texas and features leaves which are hairy, flat, and spiky. It typically blooms in winter.
\n\n\n\nBluegrass is one of the most common weeds in the San Antonio area, and usually shows up early spring or late winter. It grows in bunches, giving your lawn an uneven look and yellow color. Crabgrass is the most widely hated weed in America, because it grows primarily during spring and summer, and can stay dormant for ages. It’s resistant to drought and quickly dominates a lawn once it germinates.
\n\n\n\nDallisgrass grows in large clusters so big that the middle sometimes dies while the outer edges of the clump will continue spreading and dominating your lawn. It tends to grow in clay or sandy soils, and it loves nitrogen fertilizer. It also grows twice as fast as normal turf grasses.
\n\n\n\nLawn diseases can afflict any lawn in San Antonio. It’s important to recognize them early on, so they’re dealt with quickly. If any of these diseases are too prevalent on your lawn, you should call a San Antonio lawn service professional to help you.
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the more common weeds we see around the Alamo City.
\n\n\n\nThis disease makes red or pink threads extend from your grass and can be easily identified by its color.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll know this lawn disease by the silver dollar sized patches of tan grass that will appear all around your lawn. Left untreated they can rot your whole lawn.
\n\n\n\nNamed for its look, this disease actually starts out causing purple-green patches with a dark ring around them throughout your lawn. Once it progresses, it kills your grass completely leaving dead, brown spots all around your yard.
\n\n\n\nThis disease starts out as small, crescent-shaped clusters of brown and yellow that will quickly rot your grass down to the soil if left untreated.
\n\n\n\nDrought is the third lawn killer in San Antonio. Proper watering will solve this. Additionally, proper watering will help with the first two lawn threats.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll obviously want to keep your lawn well-watered in San Antonio, but be careful not to overdo it. Current watering restrictions in San Antonio state that you are only allowed to water your lawn with a sprinkler or irrigation system once per week, before 11 am or after 7 pm.
\n\n\n\nThese regulations are subject to change so be sure to stay up-to-date on them. In times of less or no restriction, you’ll want to water at least 3 or 4 times per week, especially during the growing season. Wintertime requires less water for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nWatering in San Antonio, Texas is best done during the late evening or the early morning when temperatures are cooler. This helps the soil retain more water.
\n","title":"Common Weeds and Lawn Diseases in San Antonio, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4442877291960508,"src":"/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/1789c/weeds-1024x709.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/107df/weeds-1024x709.jpg 320w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/293e9/weeds-1024x709.jpg 500w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/f2cbb/weeds-1024x709.jpg 800w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/1789c/weeds-1024x709.jpg 960w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/a2a79/weeds-1024x709.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/1dd6e/weeds-1024x709.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/67b76/weeds-1024x709.webp 320w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/8df11/weeds-1024x709.webp 500w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/98a65/weeds-1024x709.webp 800w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/1dd6e/weeds-1024x709.webp 960w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/7aa54/weeds-1024x709.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Common Weeds and Lawn Diseases in San Antonio, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"e0abbfa5-a5e1-5f56-876b-5766c255217a","slug":"grass-types-san-antonio","path":"/lawn-care/tx/san-antonio/grass-types-san-antonio/","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/"},{"id":"be366c94-0b46-5716-9ac2-ed152902f864","name":"San Antonio","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/san-antonio/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 13th, 2020","excerpt":"Texas is a warm season area for most of the year, and your lawn will thrive with a warm season grass. A clear understanding of what kind your lawn has ensures you’re grass cutting and maintaining appropriately. The most common warm season grasses used in Texas are as follows: Bermudagrass This is the most popular […]
\n","content":"\nTexas is a warm season area for most of the year, and your lawn will thrive with a warm season grass. A clear understanding of what kind your lawn has ensures you’re grass cutting and maintaining appropriately. The most common warm season grasses used in Texas are as follows:
\n\n\n\nThis is the most popular kind of grass in Texas. It’s known to be very resilient against disease and pests. The more you mow this grass, the thicker it grows. This also makes it more able to withstand traffic than other turf grasses, meaning Bermudagrass is best suited for families with pets and/or children.
\n\n\n\nYou should keep Bermudagrass at 1.5 inches tall and have little to no shade over it. Mowing it when it reaches 2.25 inches will give the best results.
\n\n\n\nThis is the second most popular grass in Texas, as it’s cheap and doesn’t require a whole lot of maintenance, but can’t handle a lot of foot traffic. This grass is best for use during the summer because it becomes brittle and brown in the winter. Overseeding with a cool season grass like Ryegrass during the winter is the best way to keep your lawn looking fresh if you primarily use Raleigh St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nOne drawback of this grass is that it’s very susceptible to chinch bugs and brown patch disease. It’s best kept at 3-4 inches long and requires almost no shade at all.
\n\n\n\nThis grass is very low maintenance and is native to Texas. It’s typically found in West Texas growing wild along highways. It has low potential for disease and low fertilization and lawn mowing requirements. It’s best kept at a height of 5-6 inches and needs only 1 inch of water per month to thrive. It does not do well in shade.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass has the best shade tolerance of all the grasses on this list, making it perfect for East Texas where shade is much more abundant. It’s very low maintenance and handles traffic decently well.
\n\n\n\nIt requires about .5 inches of water to sustain itself and about .75 inches during the growing season. It’s best kept at a height of 2 inches and should be mowed when it reaches 3 inches.
\n","title":"The 4 Most Common Grass Types in San Antonio","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/1789c/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/107df/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/293e9/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/f2cbb/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/1789c/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/4fb49/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/1dd6e/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/67b76/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/8df11/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/98a65/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/1dd6e/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/62477/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 4 Most Common Grass Types in San Antonio | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"17d8d6ad-6af5-5361-81c3-7d6708e9f7d8","slug":"best-grass-types-raleigh","path":"/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/best-grass-types-raleigh/","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/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"},{"id":"960004f5-f837-5b2c-8241-8a86613fdf92","name":"Raleigh","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/"}],"date":"May 13th, 2020","excerpt":"When it comes to grasses that will flourish in Raleigh, you have a lot to choose from. North Carolina is in what’s called the “transition zone,” an area sandwiched between the cold north and warm south. We need grasses that can handle both conditions. There are 8 best grass types for Raleigh that thrive in […]
\n","content":"\nWhen it comes to grasses that will flourish in Raleigh, you have a lot to choose from. North Carolina is in what’s called the “transition zone,” an area sandwiched between the cold north and warm south. We need grasses that can handle both conditions. There are 8 best grass types for Raleigh that thrive in warm and cold.
\n\n\n\nLearn more about each grass type to help you decide which one is perfect for your property.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses perform their best in the southern half of the U.S. and actively grow when the temperature is around 75 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. These are drought-tolerant grasses that are mowed at a lower height in the summer.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow best during hot North Carolina summers but will become dormant during the cold winter. For the best results, plant seeds in late spring and early summer.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses are more suited to northern climates with cold winters. These grasses are able to remain green through most of the year, even in cooler temperatures. They thrive when temperatures are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses should be seeded in late summer or early fall. Unlike warm-season grasses, they should be mowed at a taller height.
\n\n\n\nThe following warm-season and cool-season grass types are perfectly suited for the climatic and soil conditions of Raleigh:
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is dense with a dark green color, and grows very quickly, which makes it great for any bare spots in your lawn. It’s one of the toughest grasses and will even out-compete weeds – however, it also will invade and take over your flower beds if you don’t keep an eye on it.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass can be seeded, but can also be planted with sods and plugs. It thrives in full sun and goes dormant in the winter once the temperature goes below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of this, it will do best in lawns that get very little shade. If you have a significant number of trees that generate shade, then Bermudagrass will not work for you.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is available in several different improved and hybrid varieties that are used for golf courses, lawns, parks, roadsides, and sports fields.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and is able to outcompete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns. Tolerant of most soil types.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Centipedegrass.jpg\")
Centipedegrass is a popular choice in coastal areas since it adapts to infertile, acidic soils as well as salt and sand. It can only handle heavy clay soils if there is lots of drainage. This species of grass needs to be seeded regularly since it takes two or three years to fully mature and fill out your lawn. Once grown, it becomes granny-smith apple green with a dense, coarse texture.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass was initially used for low-maintenance cemeteries and eventually for lawns during and after the Great Depression. It is sometimes called “lazy man’s grass” or “poor man’s grass.” It has good shade and drought tolerance and can be spread by either seed or sod. Other varieties of centipedegrass have better cold tolerance and better performance in alkaline soils.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; doesn’t tolerate heavy traffic; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/St.-Augustinegrass-1.jpg\")
The Raleigh blend of St. Augustinegrass was developed and specifically adapted for the area by North Carolina State University in 1980 and has a higher cold tolerance than other blends. The most shade tolerant of warm-season grasses, Raleigh St. Augustine is a great choice for homes in heavily wooded areas.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is a lush, fast-growing grass with a medium blue-green color. It works best in moist, warm climates with plenty of drainage and rich soil and is well-suited for North Carolina’s warm weather.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Zoysiagrass.jpg\")
Zoysiagrass is a dense, lush grass that is light- to medium green. It is weather-resistant and low maintenance but will take a long time to establish. It does best in heat and full sun, and the speed of its growth depends on how much sun it receives. Zoysiagrass turns brown at the first fall and goes dormant throughout the winter.
\n\n\n\nIt does not require frequent mowing and rarely needs irrigation, but it will become thatchy if not properly cared for. There are several species and cultivars of Zoysiagrass used in different aspects of landscaping, with some being fine-textured and others being coarse-textured.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Not prone to disease and insects; good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"Fine](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Fine-Fescue.jpg\")
Fine fescues are known for their fine leaves. They tend to bunch and not spread out, so are often combined with Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue. Fine fescue seeds establish quickly and are a deep green color with a fine texture that almost resembles pine needles.
\n\n\n\nThis grass is drought resistant, cold tolerant, and does very well in poor soil conditions. It is the most shade-tolerant of all grass types and prefers rocky or sandy soil and clay. Full sun reduces fine fescue quality and results in thinning. Fine fescue is recommended for northern gardens and warm, shady areas.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grasses with one exception: creeping red fescues possess rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage is a must; tolerates infertile soils; sandy soils generally work well
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Often used in a mix with other cool-season grasses, especially in sun/shade mixes
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Tall fescue is perhaps the most popular cool-season grass in the upper piedmont area thanks to it remaining green during winter. Considered a reliable, low-maintenance grass, tall fescue is both tolerant to heat and resistant to cold. It thrives in full sun and partial shade, and because it can withstand heat and sudden dips in temperature, tall fescue works well for lawns in transition zones of the U.S.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue often needs to be irrigated to remain attractive during the summer. It grows best on fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 but can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions. It has a coarse texture, with a medium to dark green color and an extensive root system.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate, but low ability to recuperate from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Fast rate of growth, so plan to mow often
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations. Many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side.)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate under proper management conditions
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Fertile, good drainage, but will tolerate a wider range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Reseed every few years to repair bare spots and thinning; don’t plant old varieties such as Kentucky-31; look for “turf-type” tall fescue (TTTF). Seed blends with more than one TTTF cultivar give the best chance for a strong lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"Goats](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Kentucky-Bluegrass.jpg\")
As great as it would be to have a folk band serenading you in your yard, Kentucky bluegrass is actually a species of cool-season grass. Also, despite what the name suggests, it’s not blue, but dark green.
\n\n\n\nConfusing, we know. Apparently, when early Kentucky settlers looked out at the fields, the seed heads had a purplish, blue-green hue in the sun, hence the name.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass (the plant) performs best when paired with tall fescue for a lush lawn that lasts throughout the year. It grows best in cool temperatures during the fall, winter, and spring, and its growth slows during the summer. Kentucky bluegrass tolerates some shade but prefers full sun.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate, but will survive by going dormant
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency; a high-maintenance grass
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, fertile
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Produces a dense lawn under ideal conditions; many of these traits (shade tolerance, drought resistance, etc.) vary widely by cultivar, with newer cultivars generally being hardier, more resistant to disease, etc.; mow taller in summer; most often mixed with other species, such as tall fescue, in home lawns
\n\n\n\n![\"Long](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Perennial ryegrass is the best grass for transition zone areas like Raleigh because it can withstand the warm season despite being a grass type for the cool season. Ryegrass is a thick, dense, dark green grass that can stand up to heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nRyegrass is resistant to pests and thrives in well-drained soil. Its roots establish quickly, and it has a long growing season, all of which make it one of the most popular cool-season grasses. Perennial ryegrass is often used for winter overseeding on golf courses, athletic fields, and home lawns to provide winter color in warm climates.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low (summer dormancy in some areas)
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but poor recuperative ability
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing requirement, depending on cutting height (lower cutting heights require more frequent mowing)
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High, especially in areas with hot, humid summers
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, high fertility
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Most often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue in a cool-season mix; well known for its excellent striping ability, low mowing tolerance (reel mower fans, this one’s for you), and rapid germination rate (four to seven days). Needs moderate levels of fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nThe most commonly used grasses in North Carolina are warm season grasses like bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, and centipedegrass.
Fine fescues are finely bladed grasses that are the softest and most lush grasses for bare feet.
Tall fescue thrives in sun or medium shade in the mountains and is the best for a green lawn year-round.
Bermudagrass is the best for Raleigh and regions of North Carolina with warm temperatures since it has a deep root system and provides resistance from heat, drought, and insects.
For homeowners in Raleigh, it can be tricky picking out the right grass for your lawn. But thankfully, your location makes your decision more flexible since you can safely house both cool-season and warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to learn more about how to care for your lawn for each season, you can check out our guide on spring and fall lawn care tips in Raleigh.
\n\n\n\nLooking for help from an experienced professional? You can keep your lawn looking lush and healthy with the help of Raleigh lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Pxhere
\n","title":"8 Best Grass Types for Raleigh, NC","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/1789c/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg","srcSet":"/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/107df/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 320w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/293e9/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 500w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/f2cbb/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 800w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/1789c/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 960w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/c26c2/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/1dd6e/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/67b76/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 320w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/8df11/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 500w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/98a65/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 800w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/1dd6e/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 960w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/3cc96/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Grass Types for Raleigh, NC | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Need a new lawn? You have the option of 8 different cool-season and warm-season grasses that thrive in a Raleigh yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"ad308c4e-4f81-5cdf-938b-ab5aa5fad6a1","slug":"grass-types-ausitn","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/grass-types-ausitn/","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":"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":"May 13th, 2020","excerpt":"There are a few different grass types for lawns Austin, TX each with their pros and cons. Here are the top choices for Austinites looking for new grass in their lawns: St. Augustine The most popular grass type in Austin is St. Augustine for several reasons. St. Augustine grass grows fast and tolerates shade. It […]
\n","content":"\nThere are a few different grass types for lawns Austin, TX each with their pros and cons. Here are the top choices for Austinites looking for new grass in their lawns:
\n\n\n\nThe most popular grass type in Austin is St. Augustine for several reasons. St. Augustine grass grows fast and tolerates shade. It doesn’t mind the warm weather so that this grass can handle scorching temperatures. You can use plugs and sods to plant and make sure you install them during early spring.
\n\n\n\nA negative to consider is that St. Augustine requires more maintenance than other varieties. You need to fertilize four times per year and water frequently, especially throughout drought periods. Installing an irrigation system is wise. You also must plan to mow frequently to avoid thatch buildup.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a common pick for Austin lawns, suited perfectly for central Texas climate. Residents select this variety, but you can find it on football fields as well. It offers rugged resilience and disease resistance.
\n\n\n\nYou do need to make sure you install an irrigation system or water frequently. Depending on what variety you select – common or improved – you may find yourself fertilizing and watering often. Bermudagrass isn’t a good choice for shady lawns.
\n\n\n\nZoysia is a beautiful, thick turf that tolerates shade well. If your grass experiences a lot of wear and traffic, Zoysia is a great choice. Unlike St. Augustine grass, Zoysia grows slower, so you don’t have to mow as often. That’s a bonus!
\n\n\n\nOn the other side, Zoysia takes one to three seasons to establish and doesn’t handle damage well. You will need to fertilize often and ensure that it is properly watered. Zoysia grass doesn’t tolerate drought. If you decide to go with Zoysia grass, learn how to maintain it properly, and your grass will look fantastic.
\n\n\n\nBuffalo grass is a Texas native turf grass that is rugged. It is naturally drought tolerant and disease resistant, making it a safe choice for Austin homeowners. You don’t have to worry about watering often or installing an irrigation system. Best of all, it only grows about 5 to 6 inches, so you don’t have to mow frequently.
\n\n\n\nThe only negative to buffalo grass is that it isn’t the prettiest lawn. It is ideal for someone who doesn’t want to put the time or resources into lawn care.
\n\n\n\nTaking care of your lawn in Austin, TX requires some dedication and understanding of the climate. It is important that you understand the tasks you should accomplish each season. During each season, pay attention to the different needs of your lawn, whether it is core aeration or proper irrigation. Use this guide to understand proper lawn care in Austin, TX.
\n","title":"The 5 Popular Grass Types in Austin, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/1789c/pixabay-green-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/107df/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/293e9/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/f2cbb/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/1789c/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/4fb49/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/1dd6e/pixabay-green-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/67b76/pixabay-green-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/8df11/pixabay-green-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/98a65/pixabay-green-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/1dd6e/pixabay-green-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/62477/pixabay-green-grass.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 5 Popular Grass Types in Austin, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"c63e4258-864d-5f5c-be02-1229ce17d1d0","slug":"best-grass-types-tampa","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/best-grass-types-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":"April 28th, 2020","excerpt":"Tampa offers beachside views and aquatic wildlife for locals and tourists to enjoy. You can enjoy a stroll along Bayshore Boulevard, the United States’ longest continuous sidewalk, before enjoying Tampa’s unique cuisine. With all the bounteous emerald greenery of Tampa’s tropical vegetation, you want a lawn that is just as lush and green. Warm-season grasses […]
\n","content":"\nTampa offers beachside views and aquatic wildlife for locals and tourists to enjoy. You can enjoy a stroll along Bayshore Boulevard, the United States’ longest continuous sidewalk, before enjoying Tampa’s unique cuisine. With all the bounteous emerald greenery of Tampa’s tropical vegetation, you want a lawn that is just as lush and green.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are the best types of grass in Florida since they are able to withstand hot, muggy days and high humidity. Several types of grasses thrive in Tampa’s hot summers and mild winters.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are the best kinds of grasses for the Sunshine State. They originate from tropical regions, making them perfect for a subtropical climate like Tampa.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in temperatures ranging from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes warm-season grasses a perfect fit for the Tampa Bay area, since the climate is hot and humid year-round.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass boasts a pleasing dark green hue and an extensive root system that helps it survive drought. Bahiagrass flourishes in full sun, though it isn’t so hardy when faced up against a lot of foot traffic or cold weather. Luckily, Florida’s mild winters make it a great fit for Tampa lawns.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass is adaptable with nearly any type of soil. However, the drought-tolerant grass does not thrive in areas with salt or saltwater spray, so it’s best for more inland Tampa properties. If your yard is patchy because you have poor soil that is sandy or acidic, you might want to try switching to bahiagrass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low – needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low; mow 1-2 times a week and fertilize during peak growing season.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Resistant to diseases and insects, although dollar spot is common, and bahiagrass may attract bahiagrass billbugs, fall armyworms, or mole crickets.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Poor, sandy, or acidic
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bahiagrass needs fertilization during the peak growing season. Luckily thatch isn’t a concern with bahiagrass, so you don’t need to dethatch or aerate your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a classy choice for golf courses and commercial properties. Foot traffic doesn’t faze it, as this hardy grass type is built to withstand wear and tear. What does hurt bermudagrass is a lot of shade and cold winter temperatures.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass grows to be a vivid light green color. Hybrid bermudagrass has a fine texture, while the texture of common bermudagrass is usually coarser.
\n\n\n\nA sun-loving grass, bermudagrass is a deep-rooted grass that grows densely quickly. The thickness of the grass acts as a defense against weeds, forming a barrier that chokes them out. Bermudagrass is a high maintenance turf, but it’s durable and able to withstand rough weather conditions.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Below-ground rhizomes and above-ground stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor – needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High. Bermudagrass is a fast-growing and invasive grass. It needs to be mowed weekly to keep it from growing in garden beds and fertilized regularly.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance against diseases, although it commonly suffers from diseases such as dollar spot, leaf spot, spring dead spot, and root decline. Bermudagrass has low resistance to insects and may be invaded by pests such as white grubs, armyworms, and webworms.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermudagrass only needs reseeded once a year. It requires regular mowing during the growing season to keep it at its ideal height.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/buffalograss.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nIf you dream of an evergreen lawn that even persists through the chilly winter months, then buffalograss is the grass for you. Buffalograss is a low-maintenance lawn that keeps its blue-green hue year-round.
\n\n\n\nNative buffalograss thrives in the western and central regions of the Great Plains, but there are new turf-type cultivars that are well adapted for home lawns. Despite being named for the bison that populates North America, buffalograss doesn’t like stampeding herds of visitors, making it bad for heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nIt can tolerate Tampa’s extreme heat and bouts with drought. Avoid planting buffalograss if you have a yard shaded by big big trees. Buffalograss doesn’t require much water, so homeowners have to be careful to avoid overwatering this type of grass. Since it has a more open growth pattern, weeds are always a problem..
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases. Although buffalograss has a good tolerance against bugs, it tends to attract chinch bugs, white grubs, webworms, and mealyworms.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Between 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native soils, not sandy soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Like with most grasses, it takes effort to get buffalograss established in your yard, but once they are established, they should be low maintenance. They don’t typically need dethatching or aeration, and they don’t require much fertilizing.
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you are looking for a low-maintenance grass, centipedegrass is a good choice. Centipedegrass is durable and versatile, as it thrives in acidic and infertile soils with a low pH. It is a slow-growing grass, which means it doesn’t need to be mowed as often as other warm-season grasses. Centipedegrass is not a good grass if you have pets and kids because it doesn’t stand up to foot traffic. But it does hold up well during droughts.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it is an attractive grass, you won’t be the only one who finds centipedegrass appealing. Pests such as nematodes love centipedegrass. It’s also susceptible to fungal diseases and other pesky bugs.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Above-ground stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects; may suffer from iron chlorosis or centipedegrass decline. Nematodes and ground pearl insects are a common insect problem for centipedegrass.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Sandy and infertile soils, silt, loam
\n\n\n\nOther notes: When it is first installed in your yard, centipedegrass will be high-maintenance until it is established in the yard, then it will be low maintenance and not require much care. Centipedegrass can be sensitive to over-fertilizing.
\n\n\n\n![\"bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is the most popular grass found in Florida lawns. Tolerant of heat and shade, St. Augustinegrass is a great fit for any Tampa yard shaded by trees.
\n\n\n\nA native to coastal areas, St. Augustinegrass performs best where there’s salty sea air and high moisture and humidity. Its thick, dark green blades go dormant in the winter and turn brown before returning to their vibrant color in the spring. There are several types of St. Augustinegrass, but there are two primary types: standard and dwarf cultivars.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is used to getting a lot of water, so it will have to be watered often to keep it healthy and happy. But don’t give it too much water or fertilizer because it is susceptible to thatch. St. Augustinegrass grows in dense patches that makes it weed-resistant. And it’s not the best for families with pets or kids, since it doesn’t do well with heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Above-ground stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate; St. Augustinegrass grows quickly, so it will need frequent mowings
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; chinch bugs can be a problem with St. Augustinegrass. Nematodes, grubs, and webworms might also plague St. Augustinegrass, and it can suffer from diseases like large patch and gray leaf spot.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: St. Augustinegrass can be planted any time of year in Tampa. Prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhat makes Zoysiagrass so great for Tampa yards is its high salt tolerance. Zoysiagrass can endure some shade, but it thrives if it receives six to eight hours of sunlight a day.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a great barefoot grass because it’s so soft to walk on. It’s the perfect grass for your family and pets because it accommodates a lot of rowdy play and outdoor activities while also being soft and comfortable to walk on.
\n\n\n\nIts growth pattern makes it difficult for weeds to take root among the dense, dark green grass blades. However, the dense growth requires weekly mowing during the growing season.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes and stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; good disease and insect tolerance overall. Might encounter problems with diseases such as brown patch, gray leaf spot, or take-all root rot. Insects like white grubs, chinch bugs, sod webworms, or mole crickets might pose a threat to zoysiagrass.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-drained soils. Adaptable to almost any kind of soil, from clay to sandy soil.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Although Zoysia is usually low maintenance, it does produce thatch, which requires aeration and dethatching. Zoysiagrass is also a slow starter; new grass takes one to three months before it grows.
\n\n\n\nSeveral types of sun-loving grasses thrive in Tampa, but the best types of grasses for lawns that receive a lot of direct sunlight include St. Augustine, Celebration bermudagrass, and Zoysiagrass.
Several types of sun-loving grasses thrive in Tampa, but the best types of grasses for lawns that receive a lot of direct sunlight include St. Augustine, Celebration bermudagrass, and Zoysiagrass.
Bermudagrass consumes the least amount of water, which means it doesn’t have to be watered as frequently and it is very drought-resistant. Other types of grass that are drought tolerant and can do well with little water include bahiagrass, centipedegrass, and buffalograss.
Tampa lawns need to withstand hot, humid temperatures and thrive in coastal climates. These varieties thrive in the Tampa Bay area, so you’ll want to consider what type of grass is the right fit for your yard.
\n\n\n\nCreating your perfect yard isn’t just finding the right type of grass for your lawn. There are other ways you can enhance your Tampa yard. Check out our list of low-maintenance landscaping ideas or our list on hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas designed to help your landscaping withstand harsh hurricane weather.
\n\n\n\nDon’t wait to install new sod. Contact a Tampa lawn care pro today so that you can have the lawn of your dreams.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Free Nature Stock / Canva / License
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Tampa, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/1789c/Lawn-Grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/107df/Lawn-Grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/293e9/Lawn-Grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/f2cbb/Lawn-Grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/1789c/Lawn-Grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/c26c2/Lawn-Grass.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/1dd6e/Lawn-Grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/67b76/Lawn-Grass.webp 320w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/8df11/Lawn-Grass.webp 500w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/98a65/Lawn-Grass.webp 800w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/1dd6e/Lawn-Grass.webp 960w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/3cc96/Lawn-Grass.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Tampa, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Are you looking to get a new lawn? There are several types of warm-season grasses that are perfect for Tampa’s humid climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"280fcb8d-560d-5e7f-98bb-3dbfa40ef697","slug":"why-lawn-care-is-essential-service","path":"/lawn-care/why-lawn-care-is-essential-service/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Brenda Stuart is a radio journalist and content manager whose goal is to have the greenest lawn and prettiest garden on the block.","name":"Brenda Stuart","id":"fcad9a7b-532b-583f-832f-0cffbbcfa0a3","path":"/author/brendastuartryangmail-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5e5ae7b8ac8b21db046b4f507fbec2aa?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"April 9th, 2020","excerpt":"Food. Clothing. Shelter. Lawn care. All are essential to well-being. No one questions by the first three, but lawn care? While it might not seem so at first glance, there are good reasons many state and local governments have deemed lawn care is an essential service, even during a pandemic. Public Safety Mother Nature didn’t […]
\n","content":"\nFood. Clothing. Shelter. Lawn care. All are essential to well-being. No one questions by the first three, but lawn care? While it might not seem so at first glance, there are good reasons many state and local governments have deemed lawn care is an essential service, even during a pandemic.
\n\n\n\nMother Nature didn’t get the memo about self-isolation, and springtime plant growth is going full-tilt. Those weeds coming up in the sidewalk cracks and tall grasses growing along roadways are more than a visual issue. They present a public safety hazard. Unchecked weeds can make passage near impossible for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users in particular. Weeds also compromise walkways over time, leading to cracking and heaving. Anything that forces wheelchair users into roadways is dangerous for obvious reasons.
\n\n\n\nOvergrown grasses, shrubs, and trees in medians and public right-of-ways impairs your visibility along roads with blind turns and intersections. No wonder the National Association of Landscape Professionals petitioned the federal government to affirm that lawn care should bear the essential service label.
\n\n\n\nTall grasses and weeds give a yard an unkempt look, but that’s the least of your worries. The reason that hundreds of cities, counties and homeowners associations regulate lawn length is due to public health and safety. Those regulations have been upheld many times in court cases, and the consequences for failure to comply range from fines to foreclosure. So if a local agency can threaten a lien against your property for not mowing grass, they can hardly claim it isn’t an essential service.
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The reasons are many. An overgrown lawn is an open invitation for snakes looking for a place to lay eggs. Insect vectors of disease thrive in tall grass and weedy areas. Rodents, fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks are all more than happy to nest in neglected yards, where they pose a threat to humans and pets. Ticks and fleas are a serious concern. They carry Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and a form of encephalitis. Our health care system has enough to deal with right now, without worrying about insect born diseases. Keeping vegetation under control is necessary for keeping dangerous insects in check.
\n\n\n\nWhile trees and shrubs provide privacy and shade, they also need to be maintained to stay healthy and reduce risks. Trees with weak or dead branches pose a threat to our roofs. Purdue Univerity urban forestry specialist Lindsey Purcell says, “The most important reason to prune a mature tree is to reduce the risk of tree failure, especially in the crown. This includes removing weak branches on a tree in decline or branches damaged by a storm.” He recommends cutting in late spring to minimize the risk of infection to the tree. It’s also easier to spot damage and dead branches when buds and leaves emerge.
\n\n\n\nAnother important aspect of maintaining grass, shrubs, and other landscape plants? Home security. Tall grass and shrubs contribute to opportunities for crime, giving ne’er-do-wells places to hide. Unattended trees and shrubs also obscure the view of security cameras or block the view of address numbers. Wayward branches can even injure pedestrians walking by your yard. Proper lawn care and yard maintenance can help to keep you, your home, and your neighbors safe.
\n\n\n\nMental health and a tidy landscape go hand in hand. Service lapses in fields, parks, homes, and businesses can quickly lead to chaotic-looking neighborhoods, which can take a mental toll on residents. Josh Perkins, owner of Plant Studio Landscape in Muncie, Ind., points out, “If all the landscapers stopped working, our cities would look like a scene out of an apocalypse movie, fast.” He goes on to note that, “Everything would look rundown, and it would be hard to recover from.” Maintaining a landscape is no different from maintaining a vehicle, he says: All the ongoing care you put into a landscape ensures it will continue to function in the future.
\n\n\n\nFar from being a luxury, lawn care is justifiably categorized as essential in almost every major municipality. Keep in mind, some cities consider lawn and tree care essential, but professional mulching and flower bed prep can wait. For national health, safety, and well-being, we need to make sure that our yards and properties stay maintained during this difficult time.
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Lindsey Purcell is an urban forestry specialist who teaches at Purdue’s College of Agriculture. He also serves as executive director of the Indiana Arborists Association. He’s a certified arborist who once served as the forestry supervisor with the city of Indianapolis and the director of operations for The Nature Conservancy of Indiana.
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