{"componentChunkName":"component---src-templates-category-category-js","path":"/category/lawn-care/page/66/","result":{"pageContext":{"posts":[{"node":{"id":"b59ceabd-6819-56c4-8449-410e617385fa","slug":"everything-you-need-to-know-about-zoysia-grass","path":"/lawn-care/everything-you-need-to-know-about-zoysia-grass/","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":"May 23rd, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Zoysia Grass At A Glance warm-season grass with improved cold tolerance prefers sun, tolerates some light shade suitable for southern and ‘transition climate zones’ heat- and drought-tolerant low water and maintenance requirements dense, traffic-tolerant growth An Overview &#8211; Key things to know about Zoysia Grass Zoysia grass (Zosyia spp.), is native to Asia, but it [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Zoysia Grass At A Glance</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>warm-season grass with improved cold tolerance</li><li>prefers sun, tolerates some light shade</li><li>suitable for southern and ‘transition climate zones’</li><li>heat- and drought-tolerant</li><li>low water and maintenance requirements</li><li>dense, traffic-tolerant growth</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>An Overview &#8211; Key things to know about Zoysia Grass</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Zoysia grass (<em>Zosyia spp.</em>), is native to Asia, but it has been in the United States since at least 1895,(1) around the time turf grass lawns first captured the interest of American homeowners. It is what&#8217;s known as a ‘warm-season grass’, meaning its active growth starts in the warmth of late spring and peaks during hot summer weather. It&#8217;s well-suited to lawns across the southern United States, from the hot, humid Southeast, Texas, and even to parts of California. Zoysia is a perennial grass, so it comes back year after year when grown in appropriate climates. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>For homeowners in the the midsection of the United States, known in the turf industry as the ‘transition climate zone’, Zoysia can be an ideal turf lawn solution. This area, stretching from the Atlantic into the Midwest, is where lawn grass zones meet their limits for successful growth. It is too hot and humid for cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, and is too cold for warm-season grasses, such as Bermudagrass. However, the heat and cold tolerance characteristic of Zoysia grass allow it to flourish in this region where many of the other warm season grasses tend to fail.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Characteristics and Traits of Zoysia Grass</strong> </h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One thing to note is that Zoysia grass establishes more slowly than some other warm season lawn grasses, but as it slowly grows it forms a very dense carpet of grass beneath that feels lush under foot. In fact, the grass grows so dense, few lawn weeds are able to penetrate a healthy mass of established Zoysia lawn. The grass spreads by above-ground stems called ‘stolons’ and underground stems called ‘rhizomes’. This combination of above and below ground stems allows for the thick, dense growth and earns it favor from warm-climate sod producers and families that use their lawns heavily for lawn games and entertaining.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>During its active growing season, Zoysia typically stays light to medium green. It turns brown when winter dormancy sets in, but it stays green much longer than Bermudagrass and other warm-season grasses. Some homeowners choose to overseed Zoysia lawns in fall with cool-season ryegrass for green winter color, but others appreciate its straw-like natural hue. Come spring, Zoysia lawns are among the first to green up again.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Zoysia naturally develops a deep root system, and it&#8217;s very efficient at conserving moisture and resisting drought. During short drought episodes, the grass remains green. If drought and heat persist, Zoysia will go dormant, but it greens up quickly when watered again. Zoysia prefers full sun, but it tolerates light shade — unlike Bermudagrass and other sun-loving, warm-season grasses.</p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Lzo3KC9jfHKZoLj_6AMIXElzPg0tWUXyIfto8rJb1buCFRzUprMVREGrgWED-r-OWKlAY8TLutpTf7hy2w6_dmDCImjnlNfgyQ7NJDZAO-t-YDFVPcnmym9jOBwa5-keV2XZLpOEdLm7sDk9Mg\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><a href=\"https://waterspest.com/pest-control-blog/lawn-care-to-keep-your-grass-healthy-all-year-long/\"><em>Photo Source</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Varieties of Zoysia Grass and their Differences</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Since Zoysia grass has been propagated for the past 100 years, several strains or varieties have evolved(1). The following are just a few available varieties and their primary characteristics: </p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Zoysia japonica, often called Korean or Japanese lawn grass, was introduced into the U.S. in 1895. Zoysia japonica is more cold tolerant than the other species but is also the most coarse textured of the three species. It&#8217;s actually the only zoysia grass species that can be established from seed.<br></li><li>Zoysia japonica ‘Meyer’, is an improved strain of Zoysia japonica. Meyer was selected primarily for its texture, color, and vigor compared to other zoysiagrass selections. Meyer is slow to become established and must be propagated by sod or sprigs. Once established it develops a very dense turf, demonstrates good cold tolerant and grows well in partial shade. Meyer is best adapted to the transition zone where summers are too hot and humid for cool-season grasses and winters too cold for bermudagrass. <br></li><li>Zoysia matrella was introduced into the U.S. in 1911 from Manilla. It is chiefly a tropical and subtropical grass but can be grown as far north as Connecticut in the United States. Zoysia matrella grows well in moderate shade and forms a thick mat in full sun. The leaf blades of Zoysia matrella are narrow, sharply pointed and wiry. In tropical climates, the grass remains green year round. But, in cooler climates, it turns brown after several hard touches of frost and remains brown until late spring. <em>Zoysia</em> <em>matrella</em> must be propagated from sprigs and is quite slow to become established. </li></ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Disadvantages and Advantages of Zoysia Grass</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many factors can result in dead or thin spots in a warm-season lawn. Resist the first reaction many gardeners have of wanting to spray for disease. Before you make this mistake, consider the many other causes (2). Following are the most common causes (3).</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Zoysia Grass </em><strong><em>Disadvantages:</em></strong></h4>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><em>Heat and drought stress &#8211; </em>Although zoysia grass is more tolerant of heat and drought than any of the cool-season grasses, in severe heat and drought it may go dormant or die. Dormant lawns green-up when environmental conditions improve. Irrigated lawns are less apt to go dormant but run the increased risk of disease and insect problems. Zoysia grass requires about a ½ inch of water per week to remain green and about a ¼ inch of water per week to stay alive in dormancy<br></li><li><em>Aggressive Growth</em> &#8211; &nbsp;Like many grass species, advantageous traits can often become a disadvantage when lawns are improperly cared for. The dense mass that Zoysia grass forms are great when it is contained within a lawn, but if that grass gets into areas for planting beds or native plantings, Zoysia can be nearly impossible to remove. This is due to its relative tolerance of selective grass herbicide formulas (3).</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Zoysia Grass </em><strong><em>Advantages:</em></strong></h4>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Shade Tolerance</li><li>Drought Tolerance</li><li>Cold Tolerance</li><li>Light Foot Traffic Tolerance</li><li>Low Fertilization Requirements</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/H-eD55CUagNJXB0ltfb11py5ap6weMQ00JDTmDGpKSVQJCdxAkH3qCP4sb8ppwwo9WS82NQGwoijQX6kRdr57xe3II_nxMtYMgtcv-mk1nwcYx9jEiWQuDWNYcMOtj18m9qXYXhLU0DFzKVNtQ\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><a href=\"https://thegrassoutlet.com/shop/zeon-zoysia/\"><em>Photo Source</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Zoysia Grass and Lawn Maintenance</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With warm-season grasses, month-by-month lawn care occurs on a different timetable than cool-season northern grasses that peak during fall. Zoysia grass is best planted in spring, after the final frost, as warm-season grasses come out of dormancy and enter prime growth. Overseeding existing turf lawns with additional Zoysia seed can also be done at this time. Before you begin following the lawn maintenance calendar, obtain a soil test. A soil test provides key information including soil pH, potassium and phosphorus levels. Soil testing is usually available through county Cooperative Extension Service offices. Proper soil pH is necessary to produce a healthy, high­quality, attractive lawn. Zoysiagrass prefers soil with a pH from 5.8 to 6.5 but will tolerate a range of soil pH <em>(3)</em>.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Basic tips for getting your Zoysia turf lawn off to a good start:</em></h4>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Plant your sod or plugs during a cooler part of the year to avoid stressing the plants.</li><li>Water your grass during the early morning hours to minimize evaporation.</li><li>Mowing is a necessary stress that all grasses are able to tolerate, but each variety has a preferred mowing height; Zoysia is 1 to 2 inches for residential lawns.</li><li>Know which variety of Zoysia you have in your lawn to be sure of proper care</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Still unsure of how to best care for your Zoysia lawn? Check out your state’s agricultural extension office for helpful tips and soil testing kits that will help you determine your best lawn care plan.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live in the southern or warm coastal United States and your lawn needs call for a durable and wear-resistant warm-season lawn that can withstand both heat and drought, Zoysia grass may be the perfect solution providing you seasons of turfgrass.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sources:</strong><br>1. Duble, Richard L., “Zoysiagrass,&#8221; Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension.<br>2. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org<br>3. https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/lawns/FSA-6122%20zoysiagrass.pdf</p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Still looking for more information about lawn care? Please visit our <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/\">lawn care page</a> for more information.</em></p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Top Photo:</em></strong> www.thegrasspatch.com</p>\n","title":"Everything You Need to Know About Zoysia Grass","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":"Everything You Need to Know About Zoysia Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"0780c0a3-fa8d-53da-a198-f0b693504897","slug":"why-most-lawn-care-companies-shouldnt-be-using-google-adwords","path":"/lawn-care/why-most-lawn-care-companies-shouldnt-be-using-google-adwords/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 14th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Google Adwords can be a powerful way to grow a business. With 1.2 trillion searches each year it’s certainly tempting to go after a share of those searches with paid search. &nbsp;You can start getting web traffic instantly, the clicks are people who are in the buying cycle, and you can track your ROI very [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Google Adwords can be a powerful way to grow a business.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>With <a href=\"http://www.internetlivestats.com/google-search-statistics/\">1.2 trillion searches</a> each year it’s certainly tempting to go after a share of those searches with paid search. &nbsp;You can start getting web traffic instantly, the clicks are people who are in the buying cycle, and you can track your ROI very accurately. &nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>I’ve even written about how landscapers can use Google Adwords to grow their business. &nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, I must say, that some 95% of lawn care and landscaping businesses should stay off of Google Adwords.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Adwords is a complex beast that can lose you money </strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter what Google’s marketing message says, Google Adwords is an extremely complex system. &nbsp;Just setting an account up properly takes a fairly large amount of knowledge, and most businesses–large and small–get it wrong.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>At WikiLawn, we partner with lawn care businesses to help them grow. &nbsp;Many of them use Adwords as well, and I’ve offered to take a look at their accounts since digital marketing is what I live and breathe.  </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every time I’ve looked at these accounts, I’m disappointed. &nbsp;None have been set up particularly well, and most are missing even the basics. &nbsp;What’s even more saddening is about half were <em>blatantly losing money.</em></p>\n\n\n\n<p>I can also use competitive tools combined with our proprietary knowledge of industry margins to estimate what other companies are making and losing on Adwords. &nbsp;Most are not making money.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why AdWords is particularly challenging in the green industry</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For starters, even if you know the ins and outs of Google Adwords, the platform requires continuous maintenance. &nbsp;Landscapers are among the busiest small business owners there are.  Do you really think you have an extra 30 hours per week to spend?</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, the nature of the landscaping industry makes setting up Google Adwords complicated. &nbsp;The conversion funnel typically goes as follows:</p>\n\n\n\n<ol><li>Customer searches on Google for a term like ‘Austin, TX Landscaping’ and clicks on your ad.</li><li>They view your website. </li><li>Customer either calls you or fills out a lead form.</li><li>You answer the call, return a voicemail or follow up on the lead form to schedule a consultation.</li><li>You meet the customer, bid the job.</li><li>Customer accepts, you do the job.</li><li>A customer may purchase follow-on services later.</li></ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Here’s how this process makes bidding on Adwords extremely complex:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Follow up Time:</strong> &nbsp;If you’re out in the field when a customer calls or submits a form, and don’t get back to them quickly, your conversion rate is going to suffer. &nbsp;The more customers you miss, the more paid clicks down the drain.</li><li><strong>Conversion and ROI Tracking:</strong> &nbsp;Since much of the buying process is done offline, it’s challenging to tie back the revenue and profit you earn from a customer to a click. &nbsp;Therefore, it’s hard to calculate your return on investment.</li><li><strong>Different Clicks have Different Values:</strong> &nbsp;A one-time lawn mowing job will net you a few bucks while a hardscape installation will net you thousands. &nbsp;However, the former will convert a lot higher than the latter.  A properly set up campaign adjusts for this but is hard to do.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Adwords is complex enough on its own, but add in the complexities of the landscaping industry and it’s no wonder so many lawn and landscape businesses lose money on Adwords.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here’s the kicker. &nbsp;The higher you bid on Adwords, the more clicks you get. &nbsp;But with so many businesses that don’t realize how much money they’re losing, it becomes very difficult to get any clicks at a reasonable price whatsoever. &nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>But what about hiring an agency?</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, hiring a marketing agency is no silver bullet. &nbsp;Many of the bank-account-draining accounts I’ve looked at were run by local agencies.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fact of the matter is that most local lawn care businesses can’t afford a top-tier agency. &nbsp;Competent agencies start at $5,000 / month, and that doesn’t include your ad spend.  Running an Adwords campaign is a lot of work, so an agency charging a fraction of that is likely cutting corners. &nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simple agency economics don’t work out for small businesses. &nbsp;It’s very hard for an agency to make money if they’re charging less than $1,000 / month. &nbsp;I’m sure there are exceptions to the rule, but be very wary of retaining agencies.  They tend to be better at selling new clients than they are at delivering on their promises.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Alternatives to Google Adwords</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Upsell Current Customers</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>So Adwords may not be the right option for you, but there are still plenty of options to grow your business.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>For starters, you can always upsell your existing customers. &nbsp;This has no cost but your time.  You can write a <a href=\"https://referralrock.com/blog/email-drip-campaigns/\">carefully crafted email campaign</a> advertising specials, call your customers to see what they’re interested in, or spend a couple of minutes extra at each property on your route making a list of projects that they could use. &nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Upsells drive revenue and customers <em>want</em> them.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Get Online Reviews</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting reviews is currently one of the most powerful ways you can grow your business locally. &nbsp;First focus on the sites that provide organic (free) traffic, namely Google Local and Yelp.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply politely ask your customers to leave a review, complete your profile, and respond to every review good or bad. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Join a Platform</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many platforms that  partner with local lawn care businesses to send recurring lawn maintenance jobs at no upfront cost.  We handle all of the customer acquisition and customer support, so all you have to do is complete the work. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Still want to try Google Adwords?</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Larger, regional landscaping businesses can afford to hire a competent marketing agency to run their AdWords, and also front the setup cost for all the tracking associated with it.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, the bulk of the lawn care industry is from small local businesses. &nbsp;If you’re one of these businesses, I can only condone that you start doing AdWords if the following criteria are met:</p>\n\n\n\n<ol><li>You have the capacity to take on 10-20% more work. &nbsp;It’s not worth your time if you don’t have the capacity.</li><li>You’ve exhausted upsells, review sites, and online platforms–most companies have not.</li><li>You answer almost every phone call, and are willing to follow up several times on leads.</li><li>You take the time to learn the platform &#8211; Whether you hire an agency or do it yourself, you must know the ins and outs to make good decisions.</li><li>You have the time to monitor your account.</li><li>You are setup to accurately track your ROI. This way you never <em>lose</em> money like most of your competitors.</li></ol>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Still have questions about lawn care? Please visit our </em><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/\"><em>lawn care page</em></a><em> for information.</em></p>\n","title":"Why (Most) Lawn Care Companies Shouldn&#8217;t Be Using Google Adwords","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5058823529411764,"src":"/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/1789c/adwords-793034_1280.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/107df/adwords-793034_1280.jpg 320w,\n/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/293e9/adwords-793034_1280.jpg 500w,\n/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/f2cbb/adwords-793034_1280.jpg 800w,\n/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/1789c/adwords-793034_1280.jpg 960w,\n/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/356ef/adwords-793034_1280.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/1dd6e/adwords-793034_1280.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/67b76/adwords-793034_1280.webp 320w,\n/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/8df11/adwords-793034_1280.webp 500w,\n/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/98a65/adwords-793034_1280.webp 800w,\n/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/1dd6e/adwords-793034_1280.webp 960w,\n/static/2de3914448f9d6e935fdb9a599f8f562/93f70/adwords-793034_1280.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Why (Most) Lawn Care Companies Shouldn't Be Using Google Adwords | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"752d9ea7-31e2-5cf6-9c9d-9e17b81ee8e6","slug":"how-to-create-a-backyard-japanese-zen-garden","path":"/lawn-care/how-to-create-a-backyard-japanese-zen-garden/","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":"April 30th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Today&#8217;s hectic society has people looking for ways to simplify their daily lives. Some try to achieve this simplicity by downsizing their homes, cars, and lifestyles. For those that love to garden, be outdoors, or just enjoy a relaxing view while looking out the kitchen window,&nbsp; consider creating a Japanese inspired Garden in your very [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Today&#8217;s hectic society has people looking for ways to simplify their daily lives. Some try to achieve this simplicity by downsizing their homes, cars, and lifestyles. For those that love to garden, be outdoors, or just enjoy a relaxing view while looking out the kitchen window,&nbsp; consider creating a Japanese inspired Garden in your very own backyard.</p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"558\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-zen-garden-what-is.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4170\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-zen-garden-what-is.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-zen-garden-what-is-300x209.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-zen-garden-what-is-768x536.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> Flickr // jake&#8217;s images</em></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>First Things First: What is a Japanese Zen Garden? </strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditional Japanese gardens (also called Zen Gardens) have always been intended to be spaces of meditation and reflection. Deeply connected to the tea ceremony, they originally began as a space made for Japan’s rulers and royalty, and have transformed over time into a way of life and deep-rooted into Japan’s culture. For many, there is something profound and calming about Asian design whether it is in art, architecture, or fashion. Perhaps it is the influence of the regions’ philosophical outlook on life or the value in leading a simple lifestyle that is deeply connected with nature of the region that has shaped style and design principles for several centuries. Either way, traditional landscape design done in the style of a ‘Japanese’ Garden can create a unique calming oasis in any backyard setting.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is good to not\nthat if your goal is to create a true Japanese garden you should be prepared to\ndo a little research before you begin as it will take some self education to\nstay loyal to the culture of these traditional creations. At first glance, it\ncould be tempting to utilize many cliché ideas of what the Japanese Zen garden\nshould look like, many of which actually are preconceived notions coming from\nChinese design and culture. Additions such as red hanging flowers and bridges\ncovering small streams are all actually derived from Chinese traditions and\noften mistaken for Japanese garden design. While each and every attempt at this\ntype of landscape is going to be slightly different depending on who is\ncreating it, the theory behind the garden should be consistent — Creating your\nown haven of simplicity and&nbsp; zen.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Elements of a\nJapanese Zen Garden</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Some basics of desiging a Japanese Zen Garden to consider:</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Pay mindful attention to pathways, their direction, the views they lead to, and the materials used</li><li>There is value in a simplistic, understated design</li><li>Use natural elements only </li><li>Create views through windows/trees, under bridges</li><li>Incorporate representations of basic elements (water, rocks, fire)</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The basics of a Japanese Zen Garden, expanded upon:</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Walkways should be designed to encourage contemplation.</strong> </h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Many Japanese gardens have paths that meander through space, crisscrossing streambeds, either symbolic or flowing with real water, and designed to guide a visitor on a meditative walk. To get the same effect of this thought-provoking walk but on a smaller, backyard scale, try to incorporate a walkway made up of stepping stones. The act of having to step from stone to stone will slow your way through the garden and encourage you to be present in the journey and experience the natural environment you have created elsewhere. Other design elements linked to pathways, such as courtyards, planting beds, and other garden elements should be laid out to promote balance in the landscape. Unlike classical European gardens that favor symmetry, Japanese gardens often achieve balance through asymmetry. For example, if a large boulder is placed on one side of a pathway, a tree is often placed on the other to promote the balance of form.</p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/space-in-a-zen-garden.jpg?fit=1024%2C681&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4171\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/space-in-a-zen-garden.jpg 1024w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/space-in-a-zen-garden-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/space-in-a-zen-garden-768x511.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" /><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> Flickr // jordy1.</em></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Representation of water should be bountiful.</strong></h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A fundamental element essential to all life and a unifying characteristic across cultures, water, or the illusion of it, is often a celebrated feature in Japanese gardens and has been proven to have a soothing effect in landscape design. To get the look in your own backyard, pick a shady spot if possible and dig a shallow depression to act as a dry streambed. Fill this area with dark gravel and nestle rounded fieldstones along the banks and fill in with ferns and tufts of various sedges (Carex). You now have low maintenance dry creek bed.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. A representation of a mountain. </strong></h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Japanese gardens often have one or more large stones or boulders representing mountains in the landscape and anchoring the design. Boulders look more natural, and more like miniature mountains when they are partially buried and have plants nestled around the base, or small shrubs placed nearby to relate to the size and scale of the stone.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Rock gardens or Zen gardens. </strong></h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Originally designed as meditation gardens, dry landscapes made up of a composition of rocks, moss and small trees are also common elements of Japanese gardens. The pale sand or fine gravel spread to cover the ground represents water and is often raked into ripples. Even on a small scale in a home garden, these stylized landscapes can be very peaceful to gaze upon.</p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"799\" height=\"370\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-rock-garden.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4172\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-rock-garden.jpg 799w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-rock-garden-300x139.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-rock-garden-768x356.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" /><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> Flickr // Texas Finn</em></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. How to plan your softscaping for your Japanese Zen Garden.</strong></h4>\n\n\n\n<p>As is true with most landscape design, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed with either joy or dread at the vast options of plants to choose for your new landscape design. But when designing a Japanese or Zen Garden do not feel pressured to incorporate a large variety of plants into the garden. In fact, by sticking with two or three essential mossy or low growing ornamental grasses, you will not only have an easy-to-maintain garden, but you will be more likely to achieve the necessary step of keeping everything simple. A garden that is crafted with the simplicity of design as the driving focus quickly allows a visitor’s mind to unclutter itself. In fact, a true replica garden will not contain flashy or bright colors. Instead, monochromatic green is preferable and used as a primary palette. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to flowers, they are not out of the question. It’s just important to recognize their role in the garden and your journey towards Zen. Flowers can be colorful, but not so colorful as to be distracting. Above all, the Japanese traditions calls for flowers to work towards highlighting the green that acts as the balancing color of the garden.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, the garden arrangement is going to be key. The thought process behind a garden such as this is that every little detail is a symbol. The entirety of the landscape is meant to work towards creating Zen, which means everything serves a purpose. But of course, rules were meant to be broken, and if you are creating a space of your own to relax and meditate in, be sure to make some personal additions that help you on your way to your own piece of inner bliss. </p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Japanese maples are a must. </strong></h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A discussion about Japanese gardens would not be complete without mentioning the beauty of the graceful branch formations and delicate leaves of Acer palmatum, or the Japanese Maple. They have long been cherished by both Japanese gardeners and those that value the uniqueness of the tree worldwide. All varieties of the trees stay relatively small, 5 to 25 feet, smaller with pruning, making them beautiful additions to small backyards, near entrances, or in courtyard gardens. Today, buyers can choose from varieties with leaf colors ranging from chartreuse to plum and various forms of leaves from wide palm shapes to long skinny, serrated leaves. </p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-maple.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4173\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-maple.jpg 799w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-maple-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/japanese-maple-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" /><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> Flickr // Aurora Santiago</em></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Elements that\nare best NOT included in a Japanese Zen Garden</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We\nhave now discussed the basics of design for a Japanese garden. However, it is\ntrue that you own the landscape and can do anything you want with the space so\nas to best serve your own needs. Yet as we have already discussed, there are\nsimple guidelines to follow for making the garden more attractive and enjoyable\nto you and anyone who experiences it. The following rules for what not to do\nare commonsense principles as you get involved in the design process of a\ntraditional Japanese garden. <strong></strong></p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Items that should be left out of any backyard Japanese Zen Garden</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Painted wood</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Resist the temptation to paint wooden benches, fences, gates, arbors, or other garden structures. Instead, use a natural colored stain them as needed or allow them to weather naturally. An exception to this rule would be a brightly colored bridge that serves as a focal point. These are often painted a red-orange and have a shiny lacquer finish.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Lots of color (believe it or not)</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Too much color can literally take over the landscape and upset the desired natural flow. Use bright colors sparingly, and specifically, more as an accent.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Non-natural materials (e.g. plastic, glass, concrete)</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you wish to have art or decorations in your Japanese garden, strive to look for ones made of natural elements, such as a windchime made with shells or bamboo or a bird bath carved out of a stone. If you do find that there are no other alternatives, such as a plastic pond liner, simply ensure that all non-natural materials are covered with natural stone, mulch or plant material.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. An even number of plants or stones, and overuse of symmetry </h4>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a handy rule of thumb when it comes to any type of design. Natural (and non-natural) elements just look better when arranged in odd groupings. For some, it can be hard to not create a landscape design without keeping symmetrical throughout the space, but release yourself from that ‘symmetrical, even-number-is-the-best’ part of your personality, and understand garden elements look more random and aesthetically pleasing if arranged in odd numbers groupings. Remember, we are trying to harness the beauty of nature, and nature is by some definition, random and chaotic order.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In Conclusion</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Deciding to create your own backyard Japanese zen garden can be a large undertaking. While this work of art does take some time to get just right, the benefits of a Japanese garden are worth it in the end. Not only will you have a space you can truly make your own and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits for years to come, but you’ll have learned a history behind your design. You will be able to give your garden a true purpose that is based on a deep-rooted cultural history. However, keep in mind that your end result will be one unique to you and your needs, and while rules are good guidelines, they can also be broken!</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Have more questions about lawn care? <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/\">Visit our lawn care page</a> for more information.</p>\n","title":"How to Create a Backyard Japanese Zen Garden","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/1789c/japanese-garden-hero.jpg","srcSet":"/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/107df/japanese-garden-hero.jpg 320w,\n/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/293e9/japanese-garden-hero.jpg 500w,\n/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/f2cbb/japanese-garden-hero.jpg 800w,\n/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/1789c/japanese-garden-hero.jpg 960w,\n/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/a2a79/japanese-garden-hero.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/1dd6e/japanese-garden-hero.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/67b76/japanese-garden-hero.webp 320w,\n/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/8df11/japanese-garden-hero.webp 500w,\n/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/98a65/japanese-garden-hero.webp 800w,\n/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/1dd6e/japanese-garden-hero.webp 960w,\n/static/04476f48706c6585324b55c228216d17/7aa54/japanese-garden-hero.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Create a Backyard Japanese Zen Garden | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"d48bf529-7e32-515c-99df-8e3f40dac67e","slug":"the-definitive-guide-st-augustine-grass","path":"/lawn-care/the-definitive-guide-st-augustine-grass/","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":"April 28th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>An Overview St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum), also known as ‘Carpetgrass’, is native to the Gulf of Mexico coast lines, the West Indies and Western Africa. Records from long ago have reported the presence of St. Augustine grass as a seashore pioneer along the Atlantic coasts of Africa and the Americas. Prior to 1800, the [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>An Overview</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum), also known as ‘Carpetgrass’, is native to the Gulf of Mexico coast lines, the West Indies and Western Africa. Records from long ago have reported the presence of St. Augustine grass as a seashore pioneer along the Atlantic coasts of Africa and the Americas. Prior to 1800, the species was reported in Uruguay, Brazil, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, the West Indies, Bermuda and South Carolina. It was even reported in Kauai, Hawaii prior to 1800. By 1840, St. Augustine grass had also been collected from Australia and New Zealand further highlighting its adaptability and utility around the world.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Characteristics and Traits of St. Augustine Grass</strong> </h2>\n\n\n\n<p>St. Augustine provides a coarser, denser ground cover than most fine textured Bermuda grasses, thus giving it the nickname ‘Carpetgrass’. It is an aggressively growing grass, yet it is still able to be controlled around its borders by edgers of various types. Because St. Augustine seldom produces viable seeds, it is most often planted via plugs, sprigs, or rolls of sod, with sod being the most desirable option available. It does require more moisture, in the soil and in terms of watering, than other turfgrass options. Therefore St. Augustine is best suited for naturally humid areas such as Florida, Texas, and other southern states with subtropical to tropical weather. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, most varieties of St. Augustine are known to be fairly shade tolerant, making it an attractive option for when turf grass is desired under large shade trees. It tolerates a wide range in soil types, but cannot withstand being waterlogged or droughty sites. In the United States, St. Augustine grass can be found from the Carolinas to Florida and westward along the Gulf Coast to Texas and in Southern and Central California. Because of its lack of winter hardiness, St. Augustine grass is restricted to areas with mild winter temperatures. Similar to bermudagrass, St. Augustine thrives in high temperature and high humidity zones, but the growth of St. Augustine is better than that of bermudagrass in cool, coastal climates. As a species, there are many cultivars and varieties to choose from that have varying pros and cons so as to be a good choice for many site conditions.</p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/RqTAcxWwTkQd4iUQdLMu-_A0qY3ywERnWUDiQAzCrKz2fTMA0TCrRrATxPENMdB-ypTBhxBxE1CvyX4VbDLEWnPc4LRhKuhKn-HEH8PFvrCXoxgE_0iTgxJJO78rza7PzfYZgCVEHZuceRC95w\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://thegrassoutlet.com/shop/raleigh-st-augustine/\"><em>Source</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Varieties of St. Augustine Grass and their Differences</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Since St. Augustine grass has been propagated for the past 200 years, only a few strains or varieties have evolved and none have been developed (1). The following are just a few available varieties and their primary characteristics: </p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Floratam</strong> &#8211; This variety of St. Augustine grass is the only option that is not shade tolerant. For this reason it is a popular choice for Florida homeowners with their often sunny yards.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Bitter-Blue</strong> &#8211; Is a variety that <em>is </em>a good choice for shady sections of lawn. It is also one of the more cold tolerant varieties to choose from.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Seville</strong> &#8211; Offers a blue-green, long leaf blade with good color retention. It is also tolerant of shade, salt, and short periods of drought conditions. Another benefit of the Seville variety is that it is tolerant of the cinch bug, a common pest of St. Augustine. However, it lacks the cold tolerance that would allow it to be used beyond the southern boundaries of the Gulf Coast.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Sapphire</strong> &#8211; Another variety that offers beautiful deep blue-green color and a softer texture than most St. Augustine varieties. It is considered suitable for warmer climates and is desirable in coastal regions for its salt tolerance along with being shade and drought tolerant.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Palmetto</strong> &#8211; A coastal option for both warm and cooler climates is the Palmetto variety of St. Augustine grass. It can tolerate the cold better than other varieties as well and can thrive in either partial shade or full sun settings. It is one of the varieties that can resist the cinch bug.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the advantages and disadvantages of St. Augustine Grass?</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As is often true in the horticultural world, a plant’s strongest assets can also be its worst characteristics. No turfgrass is ideal for all circumstances, and St. Augustine grass is no exception. As shown by the traits of just a few of the varieties listed above, St. Augustine grass has a variety for nearly every site condition in the southern United States. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Advantages:</h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Shade tolerant</li><li>Sun tolerant</li><li>Warm to Hot Humid Climates</li><li>Has varieties that can withstand cooler temperatures</li><li>Its dense growth habit can tolerate average amounts of foot traffic and withstand weed infestations</li><li>Quick growing in most locations</li><li>Some varieties are resistant to cinch bugs</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disadvantages:</h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Repeated foot traffic will cause wear spots</li><li>The blue-green color will turn brown in winter</li><li>Even varieties that tolerate shade will not grow as densely as they would in sun</li><li>Aggressive growth habit means it can spread quickly and must be maintained to say in desired areas</li><li>Requires monthly fertilizer and proper soil pH amendments</li><li>Must keep turf cut to 3”-4” high as cutting too short will cause grass to thin</li><li>Vulnerable to numerous lawn pests such as cinch bugs, gray leaf spot, large patch and take-all root rot</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Jlr0LSAIjx_4W_ZA7W9QLrcWBpZ31XaKq7hcktxQOslfqRtxCrC5z0tzJhVOoXDBITN9-lRN6GacUZ9c9EiQAWjyMlllnN8VVbaN9TdFBv70HQUNxLnZ94FFM1GeMLVCRiaf4SzoLPirqTjNxA\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://duda-sod.com/choose-seville-home-lawn/\"><em>Source</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>St. Augustine Grass and Lawn Maintenance</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With warm-season grasses, month-by-month lawn care occurs on a different timetable than cool-season northern grasses that peak during fall. Saint Augustine grass is best planted in spring, after the final frost, as warm-season grasses come out of dormancy and enter prime growth. Overseeding existing turf lawns with additional St. Augustine seed can also be done at this time. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Basic tips for getting your St. Augustine turf lawn off to a good start:</h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Plant your sod or plugs during a cooler part of the year to avoid stressing the plants.</li><li>Water your grass during the early morning hours to minimize evaporation.</li><li>Mowing is a necessary stress that all grasses are able to tolerate, but each variety has a preferred mowing height; St. Augustine’s is 3 to 4 inches.</li><li>Know which variety of St. Augustine you have in your lawn to be sure of proper care</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Still unsure of how to best care for your Saint Augustine lawn? Check out your state’s agricultural extension office for helpful tips and soil testing kits that will help you determine your best lawn care plan.<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live in the southern or warm coastal United States and your lawn needs call for a durable and wear-resistant warm-season lawn that can withstand both heat and drought, Saint Augustine may be the perfect solution providing you seasons of bright green turf grass.<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sources:</strong><br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>1. Duble, Richard L. Texas Coorperative Extension <a href=\"https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/plantanswers/turf/publications/staug.html\">https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/plantanswers/turf/publications/staug.html</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Still have questions about lawn care? Please visit our </em><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/\"><em>lawn care page</em></a><em> for more information.</em></p>\n","title":"The Definitive Guide: St. Augustine Grass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/1789c/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/107df/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.jpg 320w,\n/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/293e9/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.jpg 500w,\n/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/f2cbb/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.jpg 800w,\n/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/1789c/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.jpg 960w,\n/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/a2a79/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/1dd6e/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/67b76/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.webp 320w,\n/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/8df11/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.webp 500w,\n/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/98a65/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.webp 800w,\n/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/1dd6e/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.webp 960w,\n/static/9aabb009046f70e44b14a4dd3b82c47b/7aa54/st-augustine-grass-orlando-florida.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Definitive Guide: St. Augustine Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"ae49c824-12ea-5ef6-a626-ea96f0e87e12","slug":"lawn-care-the-definitive-guide-to-bermuda-grass","path":"/lawn-care/lawn-care-the-definitive-guide-to-bermuda-grass/","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":"April 28th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>An Overview Bermudagrass (Cynodon sactylon) is native to tropical and subtropical countries worldwide. Spanish explorers brought Bermuda grass to the Americas in the 1500&#8217;s from the coast of Africa. Exactly when it arrived in mainland America is unclear, but documents from 1807 show that it was already being established as one of the primary grasses [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>An Overview</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Bermudagrass (Cynodon sactylon) is native to tropical and subtropical countries worldwide. Spanish explorers brought Bermuda grass to the Americas in the 1500&#8217;s from the coast of Africa. Exactly when it arrived in mainland America is unclear, but documents from 1807 show that it was already being established as one of the primary grasses in southern states around that time. For that reason, today, Bermuda grass is known as ‘The South’s Grass’.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bermudagrass is a perennial warm-season grass. This means that it comes back every year and grows most actively from late spring through hot, humid summer months. Bermudagrass is more sensitive to cold temperatures than warm-season Zoysia grass or cool-season grasses, such as turf-type tall fescue. This lack of cold tolerance prevents its widespread use in the north. Its spread ranges from the Atlantic coast, across the southern states, and into California. Bermuda grass flourishes in sites with full, direct sun and good drainage. It has superior heat, salt, humidity and drought tolerances. Although the majority of Bermuda&#8217;s roots stay within 6 inches of the surface, they can reach 6 feet or more in depth.(1) This extensive root system provides more resilience against environmental stresses than other warm-season grasses.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Characteristics and Traits of Bermudagrass</strong> </h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Bermudagrass is a fine-textured turfgrass that spreads by both above-ground stems known as stolons and below-ground stems called rhizomes. It is an extremely drought-hardy, durable, and versatile turfgrass that can be used in many settings. It is relatively quick to establish by seed or sprigs and is most notably known for its superior traffic tolerance and quick ability to heal after damage is done to lawn areas. These facts, combined with its tolerance to low mowing heights, make it the ideal turf for golf courses and athletic fields as well as any other areas that may experience heavy traffic.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the warmer tropical and subtropical south, during years of average rainfall, Bermuda will retain a beautiful bright green color all year round. Lawns planted in Bermudagrass can attain full lawn coverage in just one year. In fact it is not uncommon for seeded or plugged Bermuda grass lawns to be established within 60-90 days. (Good to note that when a frost occurs, bermuda grass will turn brown and go dormant until temperatures rise again in the Spring and growth resumes.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best characteristics of Bermuda grass is that it can be planted in many forms &#8211; from grass seed, sod or grass plugs. The application of Bermudagrass is also numerous, it can be planted for beautiful, durable grass lawns, nutritious and traffic tolerant pastures, sports turf, golf courses, athletic fields, and more. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>warm-season grass</li><li>requires full sun and good drainage</li><li>suitable for southern lawns from coast to coast</li><li>heat, drought, traffic, and salt tolerant</li><li>high maintenance and nutrient requirements</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Varieties of Bermuda Grass and their Differences</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Common bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.) varieties often have coarse leaf texture and light green color. However, improvements in common bermudagrass appearance have been achieved through selective breeding efforts, and there are many improved varieties available on the market that have finer leaf texture, a darker color, and an improved blade density. These varieties are most often planted by seed, but some improved varieties are also available as sod (Princess, for example). <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hybrid forms of common Bermudagrass include narrower leaf blade and finer overall texture. ‘Tifdwarf’ is the finest-textured, ‘Tifgreen 328’ is slightly larger, and ‘Tifway 419’ is the largest and is the best of the hybrids for residential use.<br></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the advantages and disadvantages of Bermuda Grass?</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As is often true in the horticultural world, a plant’s strongest assets can also be its worst characteristics. Bermudagrass has the fastest growth rate of any of the warm-season grasses. While its aggressive growth rate can make Bermudagrass difficult to contain, it enables the grass to endure heavy use. It recuperates from damage far more quickly than most grasses, and, as a result, is the preferred grass for athletic fields and golf course tee areas and fairways throughout southern regions.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>These traits can make bermudagrass one of the worst weeds of all if it encroaches into places where it is not wanted. Roundup will kill stray patches of grass, &nbsp;but recent reports have indicated that the chemical is far more toxic than advertised and should no longer be used. Physical removal of the grass is best. In planting beds it can be controlled by covering the area with ½” compost followed by 5 layers of newspaper or one later of clean cardboard and then shredded mulch. Repeated vinegar and orange oil sprays will also kill it. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>For large areas of lawn where you wish to remove established bermudagrass a process known as ‘solarization’ can be used. To solarize your lawn begin by cutting your grass as short as possible. Then thoroughly water the lawn before spreading sheets of UV-inhibitor type plastic over the area you wish to kill. Leave the plastic covering the grass for a minimum of 1 month if you are in a hot climate and up to 3 months if you are in a more temperate zone. This process creates an intensified greenhouse effect that heats the grass up beyond its normal ideal conditions. Over time, a combination of vinegar and orange oil, solarization and later an application of organic compost will rid your areas of unwanted bermudagrass (3). </p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Q1M9GL4DivQtsk7_6SXaF5ZOFXkhYwR9wwQjH_VDRcX3NeLfXMR0BLSZq5gc8ITE36KpJbPPbaOpUB4AN6W1ndrNPcbXZep3f0I7AOKOJO1OdTPaV7ohAGV3MfldTD1lrRegQymCnnNSLct2lg\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://garden.org/thread/view/38803/Solarization-attempt/﻿\"><em>Source</em></a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bermuda Grass and Lawn Maintenance</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Because of its aggressive growth rate, Bermudagrass requires more maintenance than other lawn grass types. A monthly fertilization plan might be needed during peak growth in the late spring. Similarly, it might be necessary to mow twice a week during this period to keep Bermuda at its <a href=\"https://www.pennington.com/all-products/grass-seed/resources/lawn-mowing-101\">recommended height</a> of 1” to 1-1/2 inches for residential lawns. Though the grass is drought tolerant, Bermuda will go brown and dormant during periods of extended drought. Give it 1” to 1-1/2 inches of water from rainfall or supplemental irrigation to avoid summer dormancy. (2) Be sure to check with your local municipalities for water restrictions during the summer drought months. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>With warm-season grasses, month-by-month lawn care occurs on a different timetable than cool-season northern grasses that peak during fall. Bermuda is best planted in spring, after the final frost, as warm-season grasses come out of dormancy and enter prime growth. Overseeding existing Bermudagrass lawns with additional Bermudagrass seed can also be done at this time. </p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/EFidnD93mDxdqvl0zjTeMtzUR_iN-GLcWwWhe_9q8Ny8WiPnwnJ-fKdLOMyGR8F1G78RIySG4Hv0zoeA5-n7bY8gfVnfgMpwUNKJlEB-fxXubrm0BEiHXT0khXjtbHpCB2udK562KDFtwL8frQ\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.winlawn.com/lawn-seeding-overseeding-service/\"><em>Source</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<p>Bermuda grass grows best when soil pH is between 5.8 and 7.0, but it will tolerate more alkaline conditions.(2) In areas with overly acidic soil, regular applications of lime may be needed to keep pH at optimal levels for phosphorus nutrient availability. A good alternative grass for such areas would be Centipede grass if making amendments is not desirable. Having a soil test performed will reveal if your Bermudagrass lawn needs lime or other soil amendments to thrive.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live in the southern United States and your lawn needs call for a durable and wear-resistant warm-season lawn that can withstand both heat and drought, Bermudagrass may be the perfect solution providing you seasons of bright green turf grass.<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sources:</strong><br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>1. Duble, R.L., “<a href=\"http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/archives/parsons/turf/publications/Bermuda.html\">Bermudagrass – The Sports Turf of the South</a>,&#8221; Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension.<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>2. Patton, A. and Boyd, J., “<a href=\"https://www.uaex.edu/publications/PDF/FSA-2112.pdf\">Choosing a Grass for Arkansas Lawns</a>,&#8221; University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>3. https://www.dirtdoctor.com/garden/Bermudagrass-Common_vq3441.htm</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Still have questions about lawn care? Check out our <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/\">lawn care page</a> for more information.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Top Photo:</em></strong><em> Flickr // Richard Parker</em></p>\n","title":"Lawn Care: The Definitive Guide to Bermuda Grass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3368146214099217,"src":"/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/1789c/bermuda-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/107df/bermuda-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/293e9/bermuda-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/f2cbb/bermuda-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/1789c/bermuda-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/a2a79/bermuda-grass.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/1dd6e/bermuda-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/67b76/bermuda-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/8df11/bermuda-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/98a65/bermuda-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/1dd6e/bermuda-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/7aa54/bermuda-grass.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Care: The Definitive Guide to Bermuda Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"8fe9c016-eb84-5863-99ed-1575093a5df1","slug":"29-pictures-of-life-in-the-valley-of-the-sun","path":"/lawn-care/az/phoenix/29-pictures-of-life-in-the-valley-of-the-sun/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jackie Greene is a blogger, gardener, and nutrition enthusiast. She enjoys creating organic meals for family and friends using the fresh ingredients she produces from her backyard homestead.","name":"Jackie Greene","id":"fb5923e1-833b-5d9b-808e-ded0e62c0bc4","path":"/author/jackiegreene/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c1121209a3ebfbe0a7e941d102b2971?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"7fc32475-4c73-58a8-996f-8b8d79ba2450","name":"Arizona","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"90f74182-5f0d-5dd3-8d32-576a5a21d01d","name":"Phoenix","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/phoenix/"}],"date":"April 27th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Don’t move to Phoenix, AZ unless you love sunny days. Phoenix averages at least 300 days of sun every year, hence the nickname The Valley of the Sun. All those sunny days gives residents the opportunity to get out and enjoy nature or to grow some fantastic gardens. Sun is essential for happy living. Not [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Don’t move to Phoenix, AZ unless you love sunny days. Phoenix averages at least 300 days of sun every year, hence the nickname The Valley of the Sun. All those sunny days gives residents the opportunity to get out and enjoy nature or to grow some fantastic gardens. Sun is essential for happy living. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Not convinced Phoenix is a fantastic place to live? Take a look at these pictures showing what life is like in Phoenix, AZ. </strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Phoenix is located in The Sonoran Desert with mountains around. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/mpchvuoRuhUiVM6B9QpUs0XiekbmTOa46CNWPEYDwuyKzuKbDelc-XZOHU9JGwVRzUpKfotj3DQn9GxIhMm8pIi0ZdApYTL9QkHGjWLRtMjQ5sr3RYFd2Xql5O7oafMj1SfCjNER\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/thejudge310/18856420481/\"><em>Paul Vincent Flickr﻿</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Salt River cuts through the middle of the city.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/autR1i7VEFvWajt_8HZqf00pPuhG9rwsV2oG6TXLLhaKPbKZOwcfXPvLwSPPgWxlrh9eZIGjUiEC9Oclz-qPdnrwuCrqhJpLzhi7Uq8BDOjjs3O3TksYIDzi1QUbGWDlwpblyvsq\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/res1due/42574362055/\">res1due Flickr</a></em></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Outdoor lovers flock to this city.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/QJjRRo9qcYhCiHfgREwFP9JczQ-jj7FpIzNqOuVuzjn_VUMBsiN8IJyp5w6mmaldKhfjNvXqOs6bqqLPwu8-LelThYBtHBl62YFfo-C9mGlg4iAbTDlxtLO-ij5VB2ioObj9cNK6\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/alanenglish/467929116\"><em>Al_HikesAZ﻿</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Try biking one of the dozens of trails.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/adwkQtXWVfeO4FobUM8p4SWxlZ992NhwUVIHHxrBepY7_6wbU4481YkSnAPGQ9JOdussHl4De5cuwNjBTrA3pJMNSh4hJ2q8aP22SlUoFkyJD-gNgAl0wochdyRf-s3abtknakTs\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/didcotphoenix/38603654616/\"><em>Didcot Phoenix Flickr ﻿</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Hike through the mountains.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/92o1rqNMs4_4Q8aWjS2ekDPioE6j2Zigv2Ks6x2wOCTUsm-krnoXZaOGpr6kDSqEz7W4jH2DB1HFq24URBHShWkkQPz1yniMJTbcfzeiBz32kCUT3VR2jtXGLgz7SACC_0JN-w8i\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/takeahikearizona/5728923350/\"><em>Take a Hike Arizona Flickr﻿</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Be brave and go on a hot-air balloon ride. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/z0TYrTsBS8_c9LZ_L3y7avljMm5rSXA3IJWjtSx2zwD8gOW3qn1O-TB5bMyaCHLcpvOdf4z2VaMdHHW9DOxZ0Yki95BGV1grNvDFturEzunoB1-cKWB7i7D1FrjU9rXELX95e_Xq\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/120859556@N06/15782886967\"><em>Dave Segrove Flickr ﻿</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Or, just watch them take off in the early morning for a breathtaking experience. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/sjpNlhthkFW8ftqNFUCtNsVmlurzbndpmupVc8joibQTHUJWr0YTXYfB9XeBB88GtD-pZBHKO5trKed4vOwJL6oIVUG_dCJXXQKKIlfSTS0ORrH7Xr5WpWh-pGbZ7qWr3dKtm4-W\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/50084168@N03/8182173229/\"><em>Holly Rosen Flickr﻿</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. The city offers over 180 parks.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/cj_OYfrStsmy-CwhBCELZYoaFWXIEjPVt2b3k-eHM9dVKZrKSYvNYyk6np72nJ3lPK7nCYQwG26FkQcKTS-jDWuG53KPp7MV3HK-pAZ7W0JqUpPXy063TfQ1lO1bRQDWcVIPesAM\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/liutaohan/34157425536/\"><em>Derek Liu Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Plus, there are 33,000 acres of desert preserves and 200 miles of trails. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/UMOQNAVlTJRvbitnr9lJf-vjzYqiAC26ilmbZzBve1kpbmHUjeFtUo_87lE3xI_Wnhy8grOxFa1fuT_wPfujH6up03pbTMTKxe-dWkYxzSVltn5g5A-HPtzn3iFNEx1iWKy07E__\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/alanenglish/4842841654\"><em>Al_HikesAZ Flickr </em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Check out the larger municipal park in the country, South Mountain Park. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Olyl_aSwzd1HnFBb1jKdAK355ZJKDMGrFfTSXBW_jUt9klJBvs0cXa6W-iVWOcmhnPj7prS_J1kP82MnxZ_Y0Cotv9DjP-GK7zYqY1wnE9MkAsEXh1rkrkytvD4OKwgu7ACKJCzu\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/57440551@N03/33147460748\"><em>Leo Boudreau Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. There are over 200 golf courses in the area. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/23GGT6pDaFu2ORhQ8hr1JT1xMIXdhrFJsms7gOaEFsdcaZ059wxVnBPnnY8Ph9mHmhBov4FZYgzdqFr1MiaGIwbxclrRPPnQdDXMYrgqyjZdG5ECnTygRLHO7lStacpJUdMSz0ET\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/com-phoenix/14994471238/\"><em>UA College of Medicine Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Phoenix also loves the arts.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/QXOquncjc0yF6aH-kD2HntRH6E_oMr5TLIo-8A5PA7Xf0uLiCDUSOrPLb4gqHPavnTwfr0bnQ7D1PwSFcrtoEqjZguwOY-_PSbvr3kBpBOrRdTc9yZLeGvLgUZmMghXx-HgJlZW6\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/29069717@N02/14940312402\"><em>Classic Film Flickr </em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. Check out the Heard Museum to see Hispanic and Native American cultures. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oJq9uA65L--_kI4sl0egEbcS796CrCfnFgRvR111AiVN7PFqx5W__8a-aG6Uj-LnubW9Y3huX9Zld9ZWOY4RWVROhIAxG30Ie4KprnKpFTSjyZq1M17RDa0rlAHhFXxyNuJxbFWK\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/57440551@N03/8513649875/in/album-72157632878564908/\"><em>Leo Boudreau Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. Phoenix loves performing arts as well, such as dance. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/N3hGLWuJa1rVZddIqEt8PC8OOQXJozGNJ8KFjSeOkc0Ws4CjkHMHzRMy3pmh5MBqtDbz-ZI1sZ7E6ozJ6lcSqME9s2OYY8jWX7sj4mRt8oUM6bGskOvdjB_UKo1AIz9G7G1yufei\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/32020964@N08/2990502333\"><em>Ms. Phoenix Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. Phoenix also has some authentic Mexican cuisine.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/6LJlsJR2CADdysA91EjkIkmoPCMdyx0ISf3zNgLYXC2c_Zv1l7DvUW5g9PZM-uMUQZmZWDn_Jd7hdplybJrozxH3FfiKq9m8RVz0b7JV947x0beCmqFcXi9SLr0lhNkf2ZT1vJKP\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/29069717@N02/20551683688/\"><em>Classic Film Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">16. Fried rattlesnake is a thing, y’all. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/2QLvei5Ni4W1X_dyG7zA753bRLPEvZkbGx3ozZr5fXAM_hmOn2IQ2U_7NC8vdWnTIxlyUIhfHc6WOQenZDVOwVHsixbXM-TNnHTuiCRXuf_KMB04GKR1zhxAnROc9KukIPMrUCxY\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/kimberlykv/4438619294\"><em>Kimberly Vardeman Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">17. Try Rustler’s Rooste, a Western-style saloon.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/9cFwvH9l2kzK-mX--W-2HU0GsY6LZTVjNu02gbcqqPZsb6O-KksDkmu7X93-OkQ1V6p99GRFgPWSVqAL0ds9YoJZeMxetJR8kp0i0I2mYiNnToz58w5odGfcUDyftBjZ-GonQYHw\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.rustlersrooste.com/blog/category/media/\"><em>Rustler’s Rooste Website </em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">18. Country bands and live music brings people out to dance. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/P-7Anrffl1AbbRHjhygex2xeVMJOMV2ZE04W2M3ApNrtcahwHmXg0KQ4fSGrItC5awhIsGq8ykah5S6whQCtCu2RahetYYdjjajjfMj_0DH-PglXmVzqt3toIpFafyEW7sobPiaK\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/smcgillphotography/45932240181/\"><em>Stephen McGill Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">19. Taco trucks are on basically every corner. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rbWGIEpAXPKuhzJFQUTlGyUhwQXciethKGA6si2xWx1_F67HkqzVQVy5JeTXvAe3gO8_GTwtJ_nGrvOnxBZcY3pfAfPMFx2PMFGGJvpI-gvX1fxzKmylHAk5NCmttfuLpQq8ojkY\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong></em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/29069717@N02/32268465461/\"><em> Classic Film Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">20. You’ll be shocked by the number of drive-thrus in Phoenix. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/eOM7dgIALNms4CCmPQnKPpDHXBqpAYuBKrSv5SBv9c7tzWKmN-k0fFLIFaM2hG67_Ag0YqWbOIX_O1djaPDPzl8VxKuJObBFyLAXXQgJewKOQyFHwo8Coovf9xLAA4OJNDQ-xoM-\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/29069717@N02/15257960876/\"><em>Classic Film Flickr </em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">21. To live in Phoenix, you have to love coffee.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/84hPFa-KYJTC5eJItIj9Gv5NGWOlcfrRTfn7rIGVViuTAeeLUMmL5ILwbotK-83kxWesAz7RvTN8yxuJPT-Qflsi1DEFYtiW-9rzRLl5WomlzVgc-B3tQNPWk8wk6jkMsgGe_eJP\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/29069717@N02/27324710870/\"><em>Classic Film Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">22. Cafes are everywhere, like the Cartel Coffee Lab. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/6NE-Mm1NWlJ2Mmcbzt8V91NIojXbB-6VusON2KN7L7XJ_dhx0SEUdaLV4BLGs2uqoAnad5uL6ZVfUS-IrkzTPn8Tpl3MFFnzGAO5rkuISukie9iQ_lY2GlN_h1A0LxeJQr7Bl1L9\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.facebook.com/CartelCoffeeLab/photos/a.156338893840/10157194561723841/?type=3&amp;theater\"><em>Cartel Coffee Lab Facebook </em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">23. Festivals happen all the time.</h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/SBP5SVLk13oG9FcZqoEL2LBRlkAgIpIYG8rWSQihFPirs2COXXKHyky6tsJ2ZgRkfyKazKjv3Z-tVcvUCEnJfCG7PmvDNMTzYHD-PcNZiWh4anFraKTbzNWUedvVCydKgD2sfjBH\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/phoenixmobilestagerental/33755124331\"><em>Dave Phoenix Mobile Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">24. The Cinco de Mayo festival is the biggest festival in Phoenix each year. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/40QmoPfRq7TBwdyWRxZGxCSCh5jnucEXu8KWNWlBUWuYjjTIPWtKor6Ej9G2YRdsTgLpOI6CGyX2JtUfuo_M7VsevlGCnOizI7PifcUWFH9KTrZp3uUDQ-Lg_lCS2k7KNCEP9-5Y\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/renotahoe/2387903676\"><em>Reno Tahoe Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">25. Don’t forget the nightlife with tons of clubs. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/oeoNYfjvD-NFFZACcBVlKKJspec_FMS5QxXEFny5KR_yaMxmxLbPx9p_L_DIMhLsyUZ-Ad7ASGo9jX4AJTqMizyxNA7lrr1SKcXfv1GF-UzhMLaXRaIwczQCp7JndOILzruKovYe\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/squeaks2569/6687775229\"><em>Alan Stark Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">26. Getting around town is super easy with The Light Rail. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/C34yVxCiEGS0bTkF0oppp5x9lxT21MzZbZSwMjgasH7kDPoHNx7mecEg1fgpjgmxGbX7b4voqbDZiQwkYWbz5PrGcJcFgzdOICUhGIJlcYvIDHwAG7tUkruRatFVh0giwg6NzD8H\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/mytravelphotos/35305629413/\"><em>Jasperdo Flickr </em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">27. It’s clean, safe, and very affordable, great when you head out with friends. </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nC3v1GIMvG8aglrMkJFPhlWYxmx60HWPlDW8q_DB0vlyF0L8nfXn9GJ1ZWAT-iUue_0nmQHlFzFKzfeQYvJ4eymbN2YlI5SlkvtZ1nKcXRTmpC8ttsuCJ4KExUDyTUXB_ziqgLHh\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/47911905@N00/3363487753\"><em>Dan Haneckow </em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">28. Life in Phoenix is pretty awesome </h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yO1TdndZ8uR8lv_CBxg_7ImMuqSOdeAEWO5_yK_ji01i82olgi4V26mC6bfiWEMxCBhKeXrV7b30CEDYtwqtuHoC09g8cyfiF3n1aF9vEPsYoxHApe21ODXML_Fff80OA_q9lnus\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Source:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/squeaks2569/6408553715\"><em>Alan Stark Flickr</em></a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Have questions about lawn care? Visit our </em><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/az/phoenix/\"><em>Phoenix, AZ lawn care</em></a><em> page for more information.</em></p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Top Photo: AZDew</em></p>\n","title":"29 Pictures of Life in The Valley of the Sun","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7853403141361257,"src":"/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/1789c/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/107df/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.jpg 320w,\n/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/293e9/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.jpg 500w,\n/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/f2cbb/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.jpg 800w,\n/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/1789c/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.jpg 960w,\n/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/8e61a/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.jpg 1023w","srcWebp":"/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/1dd6e/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/67b76/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.webp 320w,\n/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/8df11/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.webp 500w,\n/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/98a65/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.webp 800w,\n/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/1dd6e/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.webp 960w,\n/static/fc15f02bf2d92d24c37f4f6583062c2b/0cf9f/phoenix-arizona-skyline-photos-post.webp 1023w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"29 Pictures of Life in The Valley of the Sun | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}}],"metaTitle":"Everything You Need to Know About Lawn Care Page % Page | Wikilawn %","metaDescription":"Looking for info on Lawn Care ? Wikilawn has everything you need to know.","prevPageLink":"/category/lawn-care/page/65/","nextPageLink":"/category/lawn-care/page/67/","currentPage":66}}}