![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584.jpg\")
Little Rock is unique. Its climate is classified as subtropical, but the city experiences four distinct seasons with very short, cold winters. Named after an actual rock, “la Petite Roche” to the locals, the bustling metropolis has plenty of prime outdoor months with annual high temperatures averaging 73 degrees Fahrenheit and lows averaging 52 degrees […]
\n","content":"\nLittle Rock is unique. Its climate is classified as subtropical, but the city experiences four distinct seasons with very short, cold winters. Named after an actual rock, “la Petite Roche” to the locals, the bustling metropolis has plenty of prime outdoor months with annual high temperatures averaging 73 degrees Fahrenheit and lows averaging 52 degrees Fahrenheit. The best grass types for Little Rock need little water to survive the unique climate. Read on to discover four warm-season varieties suitable for your Little Rock landscape.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike Goldilocks, Arkansas sits in the transition zone. This means summers are too hot for cool-season grass varieties and winters are too cold for warm-season grasses in most of the state, making it incredibly difficult to maintain your lawn.
\n\n\n\nAll types of grass are classified into one of two categories:
\n\n\n\nLittle Rock sits on the banks of the Arkansas River in the middle of the state. Cool-season grass varieties perform best in Northern Arkansas, making Little Rock best-suited for warm-season varieties.
\n\n\n\nThe following warm-season grass types are perfectly suited for the climatic and soil conditions of Little Rock:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is the most common Arkansas grass variety, and it is adapted to the entire state. It is an aggressive grass that recovers quickly from damage. The turfgrass is moderately cold-tolerant, hardy, and fine-textured. It withstands drought and heavy foot traffic, making it a versatile option for golf courses, athletic fields, and home lawns.
\n\n\n\nLittle Rock is home to common and hybrid bermudagrass varieties. Sun-loving common bermudagrass has a light green color and coarse texture, while hybrid cultivars have a finer texture and dark green appearance. Common bermudagrass requires less maintenance than hybrid varieties but is less dense with a more sparse appearance and lower disease resistance.
\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; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, army worms, and sod webworms
\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 can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass thrives in the Little Rock summers. It is dense with deep roots and the least winter-hardy of the warm-season grasses. Luckily, it performs well in centrally located Little Rock. It has high shade tolerance, is quick-growing, and is easy to establish. However, the dense turfgrass does not stand up well to heavy traffic or herbicides.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is blue-green and coarse-textured. It is hardy as far north as Little Rock. The most readily available cultivar is the common St. Augustinegrass, and all cultivars are susceptible to disease and pests like chinch bugs.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, army worms, web worms, and grubs
\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![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is used throughout Arkansas. This turfgrass tolerates drought, low mow heights, shade, heavy traffic, and even lower temperatures. It has low fertilization requirements and grows densely, blocking out weeds thanks to thick, stiff leaf blades.
\n\n\n\nTwo cultivars of Zoysiagrass are present in Little Rock, Zoysia japonica and Zoysia matrella. The attractive turfgrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. Arkansas cultivars are not prone to disease or insect infestation, but grow slowly.
\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: Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and leaf spot can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, army worms, chinch bugs, and sod webworms
\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![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is slow-growing, making it a low-maintenance choice for Little Rock lawns. Cultivars require little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain lush and green. It handles shade better than bermudagrass, but the smooth, flat-bladed grass does not handle heavy traffic, cold, or herbicides well.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass has a pronounced medium texture and light green color. This turfgrass prefers to be left alone and is prone to pests and disease when improperly maintained or over watered.
\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: Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate; prone to ground pearl insects, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, and lawn caterpillars
\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; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\nNo. While Arkansas lies in the transition zone, centrally located Little Rock is too warm to grow cool-season grasses. Cities in Northern Arkansas can grow tall fescue, a cool-season grass that tolerates heat better than other varieties.
You should plant your grass seed in May or June. This gives the seed plenty of time to germinate before the hot Little Rock summer.
St. Augustinegrass is the most shade-friendly grass type for Little Rock.
The best grass cultivars for Little Rock are warm-season varieties suited to Arkansas’ unique USDA zones, 7b to 8a. All turfgrasses have their own characteristics and needs. Choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nYour grass comes together to help form your complete landscape. There are numerous landscaping options for Little Rock, and you can take advantage of the city’s four unique seasons. Be sure to check out our guides to help you keep your lawn healthy year-round:
\n\n\n\nConquer Arkansas’ humid climate. Contact a Little Rock lawn care pro today to help you maintain a green and healthy lawn, so you have more free time outdoors.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Valis55 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Little Rock","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1789c/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/107df/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/293e9/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/f2cbb/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1789c/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/c26c2/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1dd6e/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/67b76/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/8df11/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/98a65/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1dd6e/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/3cc96/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Little Rock | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, drought-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Little Rock, and these four species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"77a49ec2-92f7-5556-87a0-e95395bd2754","slug":"best-grass-types-arkansas","path":"/lawn-care/ar/best-grass-types-arkansas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"31b8d887-3e55-503a-9ba9-8fac7d950ccf","name":"Arkansas","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 9th, 2023","excerpt":"Arkansas is best known for its scenic lakes, rivers, and hot springs, but it’s also home to the only active diamond mine in the U.S. How’s that for fancy? Arkansas’ climate is classified as humid subtropical, but the Natural State experiences four seasons with plenty of precipitation and short, cold winters. Arkansas has plenty of […]
\n","content":"\nArkansas is best known for its scenic lakes, rivers, and hot springs, but it’s also home to the only active diamond mine in the U.S. How’s that for fancy? Arkansas’ climate is classified as humid subtropical, but the Natural State experiences four seasons with plenty of precipitation and short, cold winters.
\n\n\n\nArkansas has plenty of prime outdoor months for the avid adventurer with high temperatures averaging 74 degrees Fahrenheit and lows averaging 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The six best grass types for Arkansas need little water to survive the unique climate. Read on to discover varieties suitable for your Arkansas landscape.
\n\n\n\nArkansas sits in the transition zone, a region ranging from East Coast states like Delaware, Maryland, and North Carolina all the way west to Missouri, Kansas, Eastern Oklahoma, and Arkansas. This zone has incredibly unique weather, and neither warm nor cool-season turfgrasses completely adapt to the region.
\n\n\n\nIn the transition zone, summers are too hot for cool-season grass varieties and winters are too cold for warm-season grasses, making it incredibly difficult to maintain your lawn.
\n\n\n\nAll types of grass are classified into one of two categories:
\n\n\n\nArkansas is a landlocked state just south of its transition zone neighbor, Missouri. Cool-season grass varieties grow best in Northern and Central Arkansas, while the entire state is suited to growing most warm-season cultivars.
\n\n\n\nThe following grass types adapt to the climatic and soil conditions of Northern Arkansas:
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nLike some warm-season cultivars, bermudagrass adapts to the entire state. It is the most common Arkansas grass variety and a versatile option suited for many applications, including athletic fields, golf courses, and home lawns. Bermudagrass is moderately cold-tolerant, hardy, and fine to coarse-textured. It is an aggressive grass that recovers quickly, withstanding drought and heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nCommon and hybrid bermudagrass varieties grow well in Arkansas. Common varieties are sun-loving with a light green color and coarse texture, while hybrid cultivars have a finer texture and dark green appearance. Common bermudagrass requires less maintenance than hybrid varieties but is less dense with a more sparse appearance and lower disease resistance.
\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; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, armyworms, and sod webworms
\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 can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/St.-Augustinegrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is hardy as far north as Little Rock and thrives in Arkansas’ hot summers. It is a dense turfgrass with deep roots. However, it is the least winter-hardy warm-season cultivar. St. Augustinegrass has a high shade tolerance and is easy to establish. It is quick-growing but does not stand up well to herbicides or heavy traffic.
\n\n\n\nAll cultivars of this dense turfgrass are susceptible to disease and pests, especially chinch bugs. St. Augustinegrass is blue-green with a coarse, carpet-like texture. The most readily available Arkansas cultivar is the common St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, armyworms, webworms, and grubs
\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\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nLike bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass grows throughout Arkansas. It has thick, stiff leaf blades and grows dense, blocking out weeds. The low-maintenance turfgrass requires little fertilization and tolerates drought, shade, heavy traffic, low mow heights, and low temperatures.
\n\n\n\nArkansas is home to two main cultivars of Zoysiagrass, Zoysia japonica and Zoysia matrella. The attractive turfgrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. Arkansas cultivars are not prone to disease or insect infestation, but grow slowly.
\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: Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and leaf spot can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, armyworms, chinch bugs, and sod webworms
\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![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Centipedegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is slow-growing and a great low-maintenance option for Southern and Central Arkansas lawns. Like St. Augustinegrass, centipedegrass cultivars are hardy as far north as Little Rock, requiring little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain lush and green.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass handles shade better than bermudagrass, but the smooth, flat blades do not handle heavy traffic, cold, or herbicides well. The turfgrass has a pronounced medium texture and light green color. It prefers to be left alone and is prone to pests and disease when improperly maintained or over watered.
\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: Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate; prone to ground pearl insects, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, and lawn caterpillars
\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; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/solar-panels-working-2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Billy Lau / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nTall fescue grows best in the northern one-third of the state but will grow as far south as Central Arkansas. It is shade and cold-tolerant, growing best in spring and fall, and most cultivars go dormant in the hot Arkansas summers. Tall fescue has a clumping growth habit with deep roots and a sparse appearance.
\n\n\n\nThe turfgrass has an attractive medium to dark green color and coarse texture. It requires regular watering, fertilization, and mowing. Tall fescue stands up to heavy foot traffic and grows well in a range of soils, including clay and sand. Cultivars are not the most attractive choices for home lawns. However, homeowners appreciate their climatic adaptability, especially in the tough transition zone.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Tillers (Bunch forming)
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate – doesn’t recover easily from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations, as many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side.)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate resistance – can be prone to leaf spot, seedling disease, and brown patch
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low to Moderate resistance – can be susceptible to armyworms, cutworms, sod webworms, and grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in most soil types but prefers clay soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: For optimal results, apply fertilizer once during the months of September and November. Also, plant fresh grass seeds every couple of years if you wish to maintain a lush lawn and tackle any sparse or thinning spots.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/5552536384_1bc90958b3_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ferran Pestaña / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a high-maintenance, cool-season cultivar that only grows in Northern Arkansas when mixed with tall fescue. It has low drought tolerance but withstands cold and the winter conditions of Arkansas well. To survive the hot, dry Arkansas summers, Kentucky bluegrass cultivars must be mixed and seeded with tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is recognizable for its famed blue-green color, fine texture, and dense appearance. Hybrid cultivars have improved heat tolerance and include Durablue, Thermal Blue Blade, and Solar Green. While these varieties withstand hot temperatures better, they still grow best alongside tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nMost varieties are available as premixed seeds. The most common pre-mixed ratio for Arkansas is 90% tall fescue seed and 10% hybrid bluegrass seed. This ratio ensures a more dense appearance that is hardy to the drought needs of a Northern Arkansas summer.
\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 tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-3 inches – mow taller during summer
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high – can be prone to snow molds, summer patch, leaf spot, fairy rings, dollar spot, necrotic ring spot, chinch bugs, bluegrass billbugs, grubs, and greenbugs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-drained, fertile soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It’s most often mixed with other species, such as tall fescue, in home lawns. Due to its limited root depth, regular watering is necessary. Poor soil conditions and lack of water can cause diseases, but newer cultivars are generally hardier and more resistant to disease.
\n\n\n\nNo. While some homeowners overseed their warm-season grass with perennial ryegrass to maintain a year-round green lawn, it is not recommended for healthy warm-season turfgrass. The ryegrass slows spring green-up, competing with your warm-season turfgrass and stealing vital nutrients.
It is best to allow your warm-season grass to enter natural dormancy during the cold winter months. Warm-season Arkansas turfgrasses include Zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St. Augustinegrass.
If you live south of Little Rock, plant your warm-season grass seed in May or June. This gives the seed plenty of time to germinate before the hot summer. For residents of Northern Arkansas, sow your cool-season cultivar in September or October to complement the natural fall growth cycle.
Perennial ryegrass is a temporary turfgrass option for Arkansas. It is often used after new construction or lawn renovation to prevent erosion and reduce dust and mud. Like other cool-season cultivars, sow perennial ryegrass in September or October. The temporary turfgrass will green up quickly and last through spring before your warm-season cultivar takes over.
The best grass cultivars for Arkansas depend on where you live in the state. Varieties are suited to your unique USDA zone. Arkansas’ zones include 6b to 8a, with most of the state falling between 7b to 8a. All turfgrasses have their own characteristics and needs. Choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nYour grass comes together to help form your complete landscape. There are numerous landscaping options for the Natural State, and you can take advantage of the state’s four unique seasons. Be sure to check out our guides to help you plan your landscape and keep your lawn healthy year-round:
\n\n\n\nFrom well-known cities like Fayetteville, Little Rock, and Bentonville to the resort destinations of Hot Springs, no matter which part of the state you live in, conquer Arkansas’ unique climate. Let Wikilawn connect you with a local lawn care pro today to help you maintain a green and healthy lawn, so you have more free time outdoors.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Lawn, Arkansas / Pxhere
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Arkansas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/1789c/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/107df/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/293e9/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/f2cbb/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/1789c/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/c26c2/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/1dd6e/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/67b76/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.webp 320w,\n/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/8df11/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.webp 500w,\n/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/98a65/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.webp 800w,\n/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/1dd6e/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.webp 960w,\n/static/71b8acaee442be7a7fb266c518f56c51/3cc96/tree-architecture-lawn-house-flower-home-1349315-pxhere.com-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Arkansas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Depending on your location, the best grass types for Arkansas are both warm-season and cool-season varieties suitable for the unique transition zone."}}},{"node":{"id":"8676ff87-76b0-58a4-ad98-a53211127e9e","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-arkansas","path":"/lawn-care/ar/low-maintenance-landscaping-arkansas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"31b8d887-3e55-503a-9ba9-8fac7d950ccf","name":"Arkansas","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 12th, 2023","excerpt":"Hiking, camping, kayaking, and exploring the great outdoors of the Natural State are all more fun and interesting than maintaining your Arkansas lawn. Luckily, there are low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will cut down on your lawn care chores so you can get outside to soak up the sun. Switching to low-maintenance landscaping means less time, […]
\n","content":"\nHiking, camping, kayaking, and exploring the great outdoors of the Natural State are all more fun and interesting than maintaining your Arkansas lawn. Luckily, there are low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will cut down on your lawn care chores so you can get outside to soak up the sun.
\n\n\n\nSwitching to low-maintenance landscaping means less time, effort, water, weeding, mowing, and pests. In subtropical areas like Arkansas, where summer temperatures reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit and impenetrable rocky soils reign supreme in many regions, energy and water conservation is important.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Arkansas
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Low-Maintenance Landscaping in Arkansas
\n\n\n\n![\"American](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/American-Beautyberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nNative plants promote a healthy ecosystem and support conservation efforts. From preferring full sun to partial shade, they are the most low-maintenance plants you can include in your landscaping project and thrive in Arkansas’ unique climate.
\n\n\n\nNative plants thrive in the summer heat while remaining cold-hardy enough to survive a surprise winter snow in the northern half of the state. Best of all, native plants are hands off, water efficient, and resistant to local insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Arkansas native plants to choose from, including:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Black-eyed-Susan-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: grassrootsgroundswell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nInexpensive and eye-catching blooms line the shelves of local stores, catching our eyes and begging to be brought home. Don’t let these vibrant flowers fool you. They are beautiful, but just for now. These landscape plants are annuals and only last one growing season before dying in the late fall. However, if bright blooms are your thing, you can switch out your annuals for drought-tolerant or cold-resistant perennials.
\n\n\n\nPerennials bloom year after year, surviving the cold Arkansas winters. They have a shorter, more defined blooming season than annuals and are more expensive. However, they tolerate more extreme weather and come in many varieties, including shade-tolerant, deer-resistant, and low-maintenance wildflowers, ornamental grasses, shrubs, vines, and more.
\n\n\n\nIf you are ready for landscaping beauty that bounces back every year, check out some of the best perennials for the Natural State:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Like native plants, the average cost of perennial plants varies depending on the size and type of plant, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local store to purchase your own perennials, you can expect to spend between $10 to $100 per plant.
\n\n\n\n![\"Mulch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Mulch-Your-Flower-Beds.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nMulch is an inexpensive DIY job that provides enormous benefits for your Arkansas landscape. Mulch helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from cold and heat. It is a loose material typically made of inorganic or organic matter like compost, tree bark, wood chips, or rubber.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Inorganic mulches are more durable and low-maintenance but do not offer additional nutrients. It is important to note you will need to replace organic mulches like wood chips annually with a fresh layer.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of mulch are:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag. Rubber mulch is more durable and expensive, costing around $8 to $10 per 0.8-cubic-foot bag. If your landscaping project requires a lot of mulch, you can often purchase it in bulk to save money.
\n\n\n\nArkansas summers are hot, but you can beat the heat. The fewer plants in your landscape design, the less time you will spend maintaining your lawn and garden. Consider hardscaping your backyard to add sustainable visual interest while eliminating the need for weekly maintenance.
\n\n\n\nHard rock, regolith, gravel, and impenetrable soils make up a large portion of Arkansas soils, including the Arkansas River Valley, Ouachita Mountain, and the Ozark Plateau regions of central and northern Arkansas. The stiff and infertile soils found throughout these regions make creating a thriving landscape with a lush lawn, deep roots, and garden beds a difficult task. Fortunately, you don’t need a green thumb to add hardscaping to your landscape.
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are man-made features, including:
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are a set-it-and-forget-it choice for your landscape. They don’t require watering, pruning, or mowing. In fact, they don’t require maintenance at all except for an annual cleaning. Be prepared. Hardscapes are an expensive upfront investment, but they increase your home’s value and curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Be prepared to spend around $7,500 for a new deck, $4,000 for a patio, $850 for a fire pit, and $3,000 for a flagstone walkway.
\n\n\n\n![\"Conserve](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Conserve-Water-With-Xeriscaping11.jpg\")
Photo Credit: RawPixel
\n\n\n\nArkansas’ humid subtropical climate supplies ample water for industry, agriculture, recreation, and municipal systems. However, rainfall decreases in mid to late summer. When coupled with the hot summer temperatures, periods of drought can occur. However, typically the state is a low-risk drought state.
\n\n\n\nLike hardscaping, xeriscaping focuses on low-maintenance landscaping with additional emphasis on water conservation. Xeriscaping involves creating a beautiful home landscape that requires no watering except natural rainfall.
\n\n\n\nArkansas native plants and turfgrasses are a great water-wise option for xeriscaping your yard. They are naturally drought resistant and adapted to harsh seasonal shifts. Besides native plants, some basic steps for xeriscaping your yard include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional xeriscaping costs between $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on many factors like plant selection and the size of your yard. While upfront costs may seem high, you will save around $0.36 per square foot annually on water and maintenance costs.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bigleaf-Vinca.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Cslucas / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSlopes, shade, dense clay, and sedimentary rock all have one thing in common. They can make growing turfgrass incredibly difficult. Luckily, your lawn doesn’t need to be covered in traditional grass to have a thick, green appearance. Low-maintenance groundcover makes a great alternative to grass. These plants grow a few inches tall and spread quickly to fill horizontal space.
\n\n\n\nGroundcover fills areas of your lawn to mimic “grass.” They are low-maintenance, which means less work for you. These plants still require water and the occasional fertilizer, but selecting a native Arkansas groundcover will ensure your new “grass” is hardy, drought tolerant, and low-maintenance.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular Arkansas groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes, groundcover plants cost around $5 to $50 each, depending on size.
\n\n\n\n365 days of perfectly manicured, lush, green lawn is possible if you channel your favorite 1970s sitcom family, the Brady Bunch. Artificial turf is eco-friendly, comes in a variety of colors and styles, and is essentially an outdoor carpet. And contrary to popular belief, it is really hard to tell fake grass from real grass in most cases.
\n\n\n\nArtificial grass is virtually maintenance-free. However, it is expensive to install and may render your soil unusable in the future. Luckily, this won’t matter if you live in one of Arkansas’ dense and rocky soil regions.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional artificial grass installation costs between $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Crown-of-Thorns-Hybrid.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nIf you live in the southern half of Arkansas, consider planting drought-resistant succulents like cacti, agaves, or stonecrops. Succulents love arid climates and thrive in dense and rocky Arkansas soils thanks to their thick leaves and shallow root systems. They prefer to be left alone, so you can forget about watering your plants and let nature take over. Succulents come in a variety of shapes and sizes and work great in back and front yards.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular succulents that are great for Arkansas landscapes:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of succulents:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The price depends on the size and type of succulent and ranges from $10 to $75 per plant.
\n\n\n\nArkansas is home to many urbanized rural areas that share landscape space with local wildlife, including deer. The best method to deter deer is using landscape plants they prefer not to eat.
• Deer-resistant Arkansas plants include:
• Beebalm (Monarda)
• Bluestar (Amsonia)
• Butterfly-bush (Buddleia davidii)
• Forsythia (Forsythia x intermedia)
• Thyme (Thymus sp.)
• Wisteria (Wisteria sp.)
No. It is typically unnecessary to mow groundcover. They are a low-maintenance alternative to traditional turfgrass and only grow to heights of several inches.
There are many types of artificial turf, including pet-friendly turf, that are specially designed for your furry family members to be stain and odor resistant and easy to clean.
Low-maintenance landscaping is the first step to reclaiming your weekends. Unfortunately, low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance. Consider your yard’s unique microclimate and hardiness zone when selecting native plants for your low-maintenance landscape.
\n\n\n\nArkansas sits in USDA Hardiness Zones 6a to 8a, with most of the Natural State falling within zones 7a and 7b. Select low-maintenance plants that are cold-hardy to the minimum temperature in your hardiness zone.
\n\n\n\nStop wasting your time on lawn maintenance. It doesn’t matter if you live in urban Little Rock, suburban Bryant, or rural Wilson. Consider letting Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company that can handle all of your lawn care needs so you can get back to the great outdoors.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Pixabay
\n","title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Arkansas","featured_media":null,"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Arkansas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"From mulching to hardscaping, these 8 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Arkansas will leave you with more time to explore the great Natural State."}}},{"node":{"id":"85d82e74-d7c3-5783-9dfa-75279100daa5","slug":"spring-lawn-care-tips-little-rock","path":"/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/spring-lawn-care-tips-little-rock/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"31b8d887-3e55-503a-9ba9-8fac7d950ccf","name":"Arkansas","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"3f184524-ced0-581e-a7ce-1d315593ccbf","name":"Little Rock","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/"}],"date":"April 3rd, 2023","excerpt":"Little Rock is unique. The metropolitan city experiences all four seasons. Centrally located, Little Rock has short but cold winters, leaving you more springtime than the average homeowner. Use this extra time to implement our 9 spring lawn care tips to help prepare your yard for backyard parties, barbecues, and the humid Arkansas summer. In […]
\n","content":"\nLittle Rock is unique. The metropolitan city experiences all four seasons. Centrally located, Little Rock has short but cold winters, leaving you more springtime than the average homeowner. Use this extra time to implement our 9 spring lawn care tips to help prepare your yard for backyard parties, barbecues, and the humid Arkansas summer.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nSpring is all about new beginnings. It is a transformative time, and the springs in Little Rock are warm and extremely wet. From March to May, Arkansans tend to their warm-season grasses hoping to encourage fresh growth before the heat and humidity take over in June.
\n\n\n\nSpring lawn care in Arkansas is more than watering and mowing. As your yard goes through its green-up, you need to be on the lookout for diseases, pests, and bare spots that need some TLC. With the proper spring maintenance plan, you will set your yard up for success.
\n\n\n\nSpring lawn care benefits include:
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less.jpg\")
Mow more is probably the last thing you want to hear. It is tempting to mow our lawns short to make less work for ourselves. Unfortunately, for most grass types, cutting your grass short leaves it vulnerable to injury and weeds, and taller grass blades develop deeper roots.
\n\n\n\nLittle Rock’s subtropical climate and four distinct seasons make for interesting weather, especially in the spring. The city’s short winters give way to prolonged wet springs. Your grass variety determines your unique mowing schedule and lawn height.
\n\n\n\nBegin mowing your lawn when it turns green, typically beginning in April or May. To avoid injuring your lawn, never mow low or scalp your lawn in spring, and never remove more than ⅓ of the leaf blade.
\n\n\n\nAlways aim to cut less, more often. You should mow every five to seven days within the recommended range for your grass type. Do not collect clippings unless you see large clumps on your lawn.
\n\n\n\nUnlike centipedegrass and St. Augustinegrass, bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass go dormant, turning brown, in the winter. Before the spring green-up, you can mow your lawn to remove dead leaf blades and reduce shading of fresh growth and increase soil temperatures.
\n\n\n\nBegin mowing normally when your lawn turns green in April or May, following the recommended height for your grass type. Mow often, every five to seven days, and never remove more than ⅓ of the leaf blade. Like other warm-season varieties, leave clippings on the lawn to act as fertilizer.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Mowing Height |
| Bermudagrass | 0.5 – 2.5 inches |
| Centipedegrass | 1.5 – 2 inches |
| St. Augustinegrass | 2.5 – 4 inches |
| Zoysiagrass | 0.75 – 2.5 inches |
![\"Small](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/water-sprinkler.jpg\")
Lawns seldom need irrigating thanks to the rainy Little Rock springs, and this applies to all turfgrass varieties unless your lawn is brand new. If hot, dry, or windy conditions occur for an extended period, begin a watering regimen in April or May, aiming for 1 inch of water per week for all varieties.
\n\n\n\nIf you notice a dark blue-gray color, foot-printing, or wilted, folded, or curled leaves, your lawn needs water no matter what variety it is.
\n\n\n\nThe humid conditions in Arkansas create the perfect environment for lawn diseases and fungi. Maintain a healthy lawn with routine maintenance, watering, and fertilization schedules, and diseases won’t stand a chance. Some of the most common diseases affecting Arkansas turfgrasses are large patch, gray leaf spot, dollar spot, and spring dead spot.
\n\n\n\nLarge patch is a fungus that affects St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and centipedegrass. Watch for brown, circular patches several feet in diameter. Resist the urge to reach for a fungicide and call it a day. The most effective method to control and prevent large patch is proper lawn maintenance.
\n\n\n\nMonitor patches and improve drainage and air movement. Limit fertilization in affected areas and avoid over-watering.
\n\n\n\nGrey leaf spot is another turfgrass fungus affecting St. Augustinegrass in Little Rock. Watch for grass that appears yellow, mottled, or scorched. Treat gray leaf spot with proper lawn maintenance.
\n\n\n\nReduce or remove thatch and improve air circulation. Do not apply post-emergent weed killers while the disease is active and avoid fertilization. Monitor and fix drainage issues and avoid over-watering.
\n\n\n\nDollar spot affects bermudagrass. It is extremely common in the Southeast and is caused by a fungus living in Arkansas soils. Keep an eye out for circular brown or yellow spots that look like dollar coins.
\n\n\n\nTreat dollar spot with proper lawn maintenance. Maintain nitrogen levels by applying a nitrogen-based fertilizer. Additionally, minimize moisture stress by ensuring proper drainage and watering deeply and infrequently in the early morning to reduce foliage wetness.
\n\n\n\nSpring dead spot is another soil-dwelling fungus affecting bermudagrass in the Southeast. Watch for circular patches of dead grass ranging in diameter from 6 inches to several feet. The easiest way to spot spring dead spot is to monitor your lawn during its active green-up phase. Areas affected by spring dead spot will not go through the green-up process.
\n\n\n\nTreat spring dead spot by removing thatch and aggressively aerating affected areas to relieve soil compaction. The dense, clay soils in Little Rock are prone to soil compaction, making spring dead spot incredibly common.
\n\n\n\n![\"Gloves,](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Weed-Control.jpg\")
Little Rock’s wet spring climate creates the optimal habitat for plant growth, including weeds. Weeds love to invade your lawn, signifying an underlying problem with its health. They thrive in low-nitrogen soils, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf.
\n\n\n\nThe stealthy plant ninjas steal vital nutrients, water, and sunlight from your turfgrass and plants while simultaneously spreading pests and diseases. You can stop weeds in their tracks and minimize the number that pops up come summer using pre-emergent herbicide designed to kill seeds before germination.
\n\n\n\nAlways wait three weeks after your grass has gone through its green-up. Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early March to all turfgrass varieties to control crabgrass.
\n\n\n\nBroadleaf weeds typically become a nuisance during Little Rock summers. However, post-emergent herbicides target broadleaf weeds you can see, disrupting their growth, no matter the season. Never apply over two applications per year and always wait 30 days between applications.
\n\n\n\nHere are some common broadleaf weeds in Little Rock you might find in the spring:
\n\n\n\nLittle Rock springs are traditionally very wet, which deters most turfgrass pests. In the unlikely event of a dry spring, chinch bug infestation in St. Augustinegrass may occur. Watch for yellow spots in sunny locations, signifying chinch bug activity.
\n\n\n\nDIY collect chinch bugs using a coffee can with both ends removed to create a hollow pipe. Insert the can into the soil inside the affected area. Fill the can with water and leave it for a few days. Chinch bugs will float to the top of the can for removal. If you notice more than 15 chinch bugs per square foot, it is time to call a professional.
\n\n\n\nSoil provides nutrients for your grass to thrive. Unfortunately, Little Rock soils are notoriously nutrient deficient, requiring fertilization and other nutrient applications. Arkansas homeowners can send in a soil sample for free soil testing.
\n\n\n\nSimply send in a core sample to receive your unique results detailing amendments you can make to improve your soil. Common amendments include lime for soil pH imbalances, nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus applications.
\n\n\n\nClay soils dominate in Central Arkansas. It is dense, compact, and nutrientless. Aeration is a common lawn method to combat compacted soil and introduce oxygen back into struggling lawns. There are two types of common aeration, core aeration and spike aeration. Aerate your lawn in late May or early June if you notice compacted soil.
\n\n\n\nAeration creates holes in the soil so it can breathe. A core aerator punches into the ground, removing plugs of soil to create small holes. Unfortunately, this method leaves the leftover plugs of soil on the surface of your lawn, which remain an eye sore until Mother Nature breaks them down.
\n\n\n\nCore aeration is the best method for clay soils. These aerators do a better job of breaking through compacted soil to improve nutrient access.
\n\n\n\nSpike aeration is like core aeration, but less effective on severely compacted soils. Spike aerators rotate to punch small holes in the ground. Unlike core aeration, this method does not remove material from the soil, so there is no loss of aesthetic appeal.
\n\n\n\nNo one wants a thin and patchy lawn. The rainy spring conditions in Little Rock make it the prime time to seed or replant your lawn and encourage fresh growth.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass and centipedegrass are low-maintenance cultivars that respond well to overseeding. Overseeding involves spreading new grass seed over existing turfgrass to fill thin areas.
\n\n\n\nPrepare to seed your Arkansas lawn in March, April, or May at least two months after applying a pre-emergent herbicide. Spread 0.5 to 1 pound of seed per 1,000 square feet for bermudagrass and centipedegrass varieties.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass and St. Augustinegrass do not respond to overseeding. Instead, plan to replant large bare areas using sod plugs in April or May. Space plugs 6 to 12 inches apart. Water well daily and be sure to apply a pre-emergent herbicide that does not affect root growth to keep crabgrass at bay.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fertilizing.jpg\")
Fertilizer promotes healthy growth, but be careful, too much of a good thing can harm your landscape. The best time to apply fertilizer is after your lawn has gone through its green-up and before the Arkansas summer heat sets in. The type of fertilizer for your lawn depends on your variety of turfgrass and your unique soil sample test results.
\n\n\n\nFertilizer comprises three primary nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Labels have three numbers, such as 5-10-5, which means the fertilizer contains 5% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 5% potassium. Select a fertilizer ratio to satisfy your soil test results.
\n\n\n\nFertilize your lawn three weeks after it turns green, typically in late May. Apply 0.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn.
\n\n\n\nUnlike other warm-season turfgrass, centipedegrass does not need nitrogen. Instead, apply iron three weeks after your lawn has turned green in May if you notice a yellow appearance.
\n\n\n\nYes. Fresh grass seed or sod plugs require more water than just the average spring rainfall in Little Rock. Aim to water your grass seed three times a day for the first week. During the second week, water two times per day, and in the third week, water once per day if it does not rain.
Organic mulch provides moisture retention and nutrients for your plants. Experts recommend laying new mulch on top of your existing mulch annually in the spring after the last frost. In Little Rock, lay a new layer of mulch anytime from March to May.
Warm-season grasses like the varieties in Little Rock take longer to germinate than cool-season grasses. It can take two months for your new lawn to grow long enough to require mowing and a full year before it is matured and dense.
Wet spring weather creates lush green backdrops for Little Rock homeowners. With the proper spring lawn care schedule, your yard can experience its green-up and glow-up in time for the humid summer months to set in.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, spring isn’t the only busy time for yard-loving Arkansans. Thanks to Little Rock’s four seasons, be sure to check out our fall lawn care checklist to get a jump start on what you can expect from your long-term lawn care maintenance plan.
\n\n\n\nIf you are short on time and need help setting your landscape off on the right foot, contact a Little Rock lawn care pro to help you establish deep roots so your lawn can survive the humid summer.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Adam Bartlett / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"9 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Little Rock, AR","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/1789c/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.jpg","srcSet":"/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/107df/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.jpg 320w,\n/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/293e9/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.jpg 500w,\n/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/f2cbb/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.jpg 800w,\n/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/1789c/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.jpg 960w,\n/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/c26c2/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/1dd6e/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/67b76/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.webp 320w,\n/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/8df11/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.webp 500w,\n/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/98a65/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.webp 800w,\n/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/1dd6e/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.webp 960w,\n/static/36993bee1355633d50fa153cc70b2075/3cc96/Spring-Lawn-Care-Tips.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Little Rock, AR | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover 9 valuable tips for maintaining a lush spring lawn in Little Rock and prepare your grass for the humid Arkansas summers."}}},{"node":{"id":"6a28c13b-239f-5a64-b745-5f8748caf8ba","slug":"best-native-plants-arkansas","path":"/lawn-care/ar/best-native-plants-arkansas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"31b8d887-3e55-503a-9ba9-8fac7d950ccf","name":"Arkansas","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 9th, 2023","excerpt":"Arkansas offers mountainous trails, serene lakes, running rivers, and fertile valleys. Located south of Missouri with the Mississippi River running the length of its western border, the Natural State is home to seven national parks. The diverse state has all the natural charm you could ever dream of. Invite some local nature into your landscape […]
\n","content":"\nArkansas offers mountainous trails, serene lakes, running rivers, and fertile valleys. Located south of Missouri with the Mississippi River running the length of its western border, the Natural State is home to seven national parks. The diverse state has all the natural charm you could ever dream of. Invite some local nature into your landscape by filling your yard with some of the best native plants for Arkansas.
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer many landscaping benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nNative plants help promote a healthier Arkansas ecosystem. Check out these 20 native plants to help you plan your natural landscape.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/American-Beautyberry-Callicarpa-Americana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry is a large deciduous shrub that works well in woodland gardens, natural areas, and as an understory shrub in dappled shade. Mature branches arch toward the ground, growing denser with additional sunlight. A member of the mint family, this shrub produces bright purple fruits that attract birds and other wildlife.
\n\n\n\nBeautyberry has small lavender flowers and fuzzy, light green leaves. The shrub blooms from spring to summer before maturing to fruits in September. Beautyberry is drought tolerant and adapts well to most soils but prefers well-drained, rich, organic soil. It grows well throughout Arkansas but is found less frequently in the upper Ozark counties.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil but tolerates acidic, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; prefers a regular watering schedule and moist roots
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; cooked fruit can be made into jelly
\n\n\n\nArkansas beardtongue is an herbaceous perennial with showy white or pink tubular flowers that bloom in the spring. Reaching heights up to 2 feet, slender stems ascend with paired dark green oblong leaves. The herbaceous flower grows well in the mountainous Interior Highland and Ozark regions encompassing northwest Arkansas and throughout most of Arkansas, except the Delta and coastal plains regions.
\n\n\n\nLike most beardtongues, Arkansas beardtongue grows best in full sun and prefers well-drained soils. Plant this attractive herb in garden beds to form flowering colonies. The Arkansas native is especially beneficial to local bees and pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, moist to dry loamy soils; tolerates well-drained clay soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water 1 inch per week in the summer
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; poisonous to animals, including horses and poultry, in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"Azalea](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/azaleas-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nAzaleas are the most common landscape shrub in Arkansas, leading some to consider it the state shrub. They are a family of flowering shrubs with several deciduous species native to Arkansas. Vibrant spring blooms attract pollinating insects, while the dried stalks provide shelter for songbirds in the winter.
\n\n\n\nAzaleas prefer dappled shade and thrive in the well-drained, rich, moisture-retaining soils found in the southern two-thirds of the state. Plant these beautiful blooms as part of mass plantings, woodland gardens, mixed borders, and pollinator gardens. The three most common azaleas native to Arkansas include:
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-12 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, rich, humusy, acidic, moisture-retentive soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: About 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/brown-eyed-susan-23441281362806Ay7C.jpg\")
Photo Credit : PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nBrown-eyed Susan is the only naturally occurring species of Rudbeckia in Arkansas, growing across the Ozark, Valley, and Ouachita Mountain regions. Like its cousin, black-eyed Susan, it is recognizable for its bright gold petals and dark brown centers. The herbaceous wildflower is deer-resistant and taller, with a more sparse growth habit than its cousin. It makes a great addition to naturalized home landscapes and rain gardens.
\n\n\n\nTransplanted flowers or sewn seeds grow well in garden beds and containers. Brown-eyed Susan flowers grow atop clumping, three-lobed leaves. They love full sun and well-drained, moist soil. The sunny blooms are important to Arkansas butterfly conservation efforts, attracting birds and local pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-5 feet tall and 1.5-2.5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Biennial or short-lived perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, moist to wet, rich soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; some humans have an allergy to daisies
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bluestar-Amsonia-tabernaemontana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nBluestar, also known as Hubricht’s bluestar and threadleaf bluestar, is native to central Arkansas and grows naturally in the Ouachita Mountain range. It is a clumping, herbaceous perennial with small lavender, star-shaped flowers that bloom in spring amongst grass-like leaves.
\n\n\n\nThe low-maintenance ornamental plant is popular in home landscapes thanks to its narrow, bright green foliage that lasts through summer and turns golden yellow in the fall. Bluestar makes a great addition to rock gardens, woodland areas, and mass flower bed plantings. It is an attractive pollinator plant and deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and up to 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained average to medium-weight soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: About 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; milky sap irritates humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is a native species of milkweed and is extremely important to healthy Arkansas landscapes. It is an attractive flowering plant and a nectar source for bees and pollinators and a host plant for caterpillars, including the Monarch butterfly and Unexpected Tiger moth. There are around 14 native species of milkweed that grow throughout Arkansas and all are part of the Arkansas Monarch Conservation Partnership.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed produces bright orange or yellow flowers from summer to fall. The attractive plant is hardy and loves full sun. It tolerates most soils but prefers sandy well-draining soil and is moderately drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-4 feet tall and less than 1 foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial though some species are annuals
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers dry, sandy soil or gravel
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Semi drought-tolerant; prefers to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; milky sap irritates humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/32128063046_31c9eb4bef_c-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: DougMcGrady / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nEarly buttercup is an herbaceous winter perennial growing statewide throughout Arkansas. Glossy yellow flowers bloom in early March among three-lobed leaves. It is one of 17 species of buttercup growing throughout the Natural State. The flowering herb adapts to a range of soils and habitats, including shady woods, sunny grasslands, and home lawns.
\n\n\n\nEarly buttercup makes a great green addition to your winter landscape. It grows well in garden beds and pollinator gardens. However, be mindful of planting in shaded areas where rapid self-seeding and colonization occur. The glossy blooms attract numerous pollinators, game birds, and small mammals.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-12 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers rich, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; one inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; minor skin irritation lasting minutes if touched; low toxicity if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Eastern-Redbud-Cercis-canadensis-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nEastern redbud is a small deciduous tree with a dense canopy growing statewide. It produces small clusters of showy pink flowers over its bare branches in spring. Blooms last for two to three weeks before giving way to heart-shaped dark green leaves that turn golden in the fall.
\n\n\n\nEastern redbud works well as shrub borders and fringe trees. Those low-maintenance cultivars require little pruning and attract many birds and pollinators. They have a short trunk and rounded crown of spreading branches. Unfortunately, these beautiful trees have a short lifespan of around 35-40 years.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 30 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: About 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous to dogs and cats
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Maianthemum_racemosum_10782.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Walter Seigmund / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nLike traditional Solomon’s Seal, false Solomon’s seal is a member of the lily family. It occurs naturally in northwestern Arkansas and Crowley’s Ridge. It is an excellent shade plant with arching stems that produces large leaves and clusters of tiny white flowers in late spring followed by vibrant red berries in June.
\n\n\n\nFalse Solomon’s seal attracts birds and small mammals. Unlike its cousin variegated Solomon’s seal, this variety is not deer-resistant. Plant the herbaceous perennial alone, away from competition in a shaded garden area or on the north side of your Arkansas landscape. It spreads quickly, leading some gardeners to consider it an aggressive species.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Arching stems reach up to 4 feet long
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers deep, moist, rich, acidic soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Florida-Anise-Illicium-floridanum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ted Bodner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nPurple anise, or the Florida anise tree, is actually an evergreen shrub with small star-shaped purple to red flowers. Its skinny branches droop to the ground, giving the shrub a rounded shape while its flowers bloom in spring with fruits following from late summer to fall. The fruits of the Florida anise tree give off a distinct licorice odor when crushed like its cousin star anise. The evergreen shrub grows throughout Arkansas and is most commonly found near streams, lakes, and ravines.
\n\n\n\nFlorida anise has a dense growth pattern, making it ideal for windbreaks and hedgerows. They grow well in partial shade but prefer full sun and respond well to pruning. They love rich soil and moisture but adapt to most conditions. The purple anise is winter hardy to minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit and its foliage is poisonous, making it resistant to insects and deer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers rich, moist soil, clay, sand, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of rainfall or water per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; foliage is poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Southern-Lady-Fern-Athyrium-filix-femina.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLady fern is a medium-sized fern growing throughout Arkansas, North America, and even Alaska and Canada. It loves shaded woods and swampy regions but adapts to most soils and climates. Lady fern has an attractive and delicate appearance, with short leaflets running the lengths of divided, wispy fronds.
\n\n\n\nLady fern is low-maintenance and extremely cold hardy, making it a great choice for northern Arkansas landscapes. It makes a great addition to shade gardens and natural landscapes with moist soil. The slow-growing perennial will go dormant during times of drought and is easily damaged by wind or animals.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb, fern
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moist, humus-rich soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Semi drought-tolerant once established; prefers regular watering and evenly moist soil, never soggy
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; raw plant is poisonous to humans and animals in large quantities; cooked plant is used as a food source in some cultures
\n\n\n\nNet-leaf leather-flower is another member of the native Arkansas buttercup family. This herbaceous vine grows in north-central and southwestern Arkansas, preferring dry, sandy, or rocky soils. Mature specimens can produce multiple vines with bright green leaf pairs. Vines grow upright with supports like trellises or trees but will crawl across and over other plants, anchoring themselves to grow upright.
\n\n\n\nNet-leaf leather-flower produces unique, lavender, bell-shaped blooms in the spring that resemble upside-down cups. The attractive vine grows to 12 feet tall and makes a great addition to any Arkansas garden with partial shade and moist soil. Avoid tying the delicate branches. Instead, plant specimens near trellises, fences, arbors, large shrubs, or small trees.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 12 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; grows well in any soil with average moisture and partial shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water 1 inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; poisonous to humans and animals but rarely consumed
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/bloem-echinacea-purpurea-flora.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nPurple coneflower is a member of the Arkansas Monarch’s conservation efforts and is important to Arkansas’ healthy ecosystem. The attractive flowering herb grows throughout the state except for the West Gulf Coastal and Mississippi Plains. Purple coneflower makes a great addition to rock gardens, flower beds, containers, and pollinator gardens.
\n\n\n\nThe wild herb produces showy blooms with slender, pinkish-purple petals around large, round orange-brown centers. Erect stems grow to heights of three feet among large, serrated bright green leaves. Purple coneflower tolerates mild drought conditions, heat, and a variety of soil conditions. It attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, and like bluestar and brown-eyed Susan, is deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, rich soil or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8695231251_e54600299a_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: manuel m. v. / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Red buckeye, or scarlet buckeye, is a large shrub or small tree growing throughout Arkansas except for the Western Ozarks and the banks of the Mississippi River. In nature, it is an understory or mixed woodland tree that loves deep, well-drained soils and full sun.
\n\n\n\nTubular red flowers attract hummingbirds and pollinators in the spring, while attractive flaky bark adds visual interest. It has a rounded top and a broad growth pattern. The small tree is part of the Arkansas Monarch’s conservation efforts. Plant red buckeyes anywhere that is too small for a larger tree. When choosing an area for planting, keep in mind that these specimens produce poisonous seeds resembling reddish-brown acorns that drop to the ground in the fall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub, tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-40 feet tall; usually 20 feet tall in Arkansas
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers deep, acidic, well-drained sand, clay, loam, or limestone
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Moderate toxicity; seeds are poisonous to humans and animals, including horses and livestock; often used to make soap
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Glandularia_canadensis_1327432220.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Carl Lewis / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nRose vervain is another important pollinator for Arkansas, attracting local bees and butterflies. It is a creeping, low-growing herb that produces clusters of fragrant pink, five-petaled flowers. Rose vervain grows naturally throughout Arkansas except for the areas encompassing the Mississippi Plain.
\n\n\n\nThe perennial grows best in partial shade. It requires weekly watering during the dry summer months or it will lose its leaves. Plant rose vervain in borders, rock gardens, and containers. The showy herb also makes an attractive groundcover.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 10 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial; sometimes annual during harsh winters in northern Arkansas
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers poor, acidic, sandy, rocky, moist, well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/18497136828_00d9aff016_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: F. D. Richards / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nRoughleaf dogwood is a small tree or large shrub with a clumping growth habit. Growing statewide except for the Coastal Plain, this fragrant tree blooms creamy yellow flowers in clusters alongside hard, white fruit.
\n\n\n\nRoughleaf dogwood gets its name from its rough leaf surfaces. The tree adapts to most light conditions and soils but grows more densely in full sunlight. It makes a great addition to property barriers, natural areas, stream banks for erosion control, and sunny patio areas. It is one of five Arkansas dogwoods.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 20 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; calcareous, acidic, alkaline, limestone, sand, sand-loam, medium loam, clay loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3779976362_ac532eef04_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schluz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nSummersweet is an attractive landscape shrub producing visual interest no matter the season. The deciduous perennial produces shiny green leaves in the spring, spiky pink or white flowers in the summer, yellow leaves in the fall, and delicate seed capsules that attract birds and small mammals in the winter.
\n\n\n\nSummersweet grows statewide. It has an open growth pattern and soft texture. The fragrant shrub prefers partial shade and makes a great addition to pollinator gardens, natural landscapes, and mixed borders.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers acidic, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week; do not let the soil dry out completely
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/36415538275_740f5f1f45_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Plant Image Library / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nSweetbay magnolia is a wide-growing semi-evergreen tree that reaches heights of 60 feet in Arkansas. The slow-growing tree has no natural pest or disease enemies and responds well to pruning after its active growing season before winter dormancy. It makes a great patio or specimen tree.
\n\n\n\nSweetbay magnolia produces white, lemon-scented flowers from summer through fall, and its vibrant red seeds attract songbirds and small mammals. The medium-sized tree has medium green, glossy leaves. In the southern half of Arkansas, sweetbay magnolia retains its leaves. However, in the colder cities of northern Arkansas, it will lose its leaves in the winter.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-50 feet tall and 15-25 feet wide; trunk up to 3 feet in diameter
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; rich, moist, acidic, sand, sand-loam, medium loam, clay loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Calycanthus_floridus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: GFDL&CC / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nSweetshrub, also known as Carolina allspice, is a large deciduous shrub. It has a rounded growth pattern with glossy, leathery, dark green leaves. Like sweetbay magnolia, specimens are very pest and disease-resistant.
\n\n\n\nThe fragrant shrub is tall with an open and upright growth habit. It produces fragrant maroon flowers in the spring, followed by dry fruit. Because of its pleasant strawberry-like fragrance, most homeowners plant sweetshrub near patios or entryways.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-9 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, semi-moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of rainfall or water per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; seed pods are poisonous if consumed in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3269835134_006580b0b3_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Frank Mayfield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall tickseed is a member of the aster or sunflower family and an important member of Arkansas’ butterfly conservation efforts. It grows naturally throughout most of Arkansas, with the exception of the Mississippi and West Gulf Coastal Plains. The herbaceous perennial blooms daisy-shaped, yellow flowers with brown-orange centers from spring to summer.
\n\n\n\nTickseed is drought tolerant and reseeds itself. Its bright blooms attract butterflies and native pollinators. Tall tickseed makes a great addition to flower beds, butterfly gardens, and naturalized areas as it is deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist, well-drained chalk, soil, sand, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of rainfall or water per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nYour yard has its own unique microclimate, and all native plants have specific needs. Not all native plants will grow well in your yard. Be sure to select plants suitable for the soil, sun exposure, and watering capabilities of your landscape.
\n\n\n\nArkansas sits in USDA Hardiness Zones 6a to 8a, indicating the coldest annual temperature is -10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit in the northernmost portion of the state. The majority of the Natural State falls within zones 7a and 7b. Arkansas native plants are cold-hardy to the minimum temperature in the hardiness zones. Keep your zone in mind when selecting non-native plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nFall is the best time to plant trees and shrubs. Aim to plant native shrubs and trees in November. Wait until the last chance of frost in spring to plant native flowers and herbs. Plant your new spring landscape after April 15 in most of the state.
Arkansas’ diverse landscape is home to four dominant soil regions:
1. Regolith, sedimentary rock, gravel, and hard, stiff soils make up the Ozark Plateau region in northern Arkansas.
2. Well-drained, loose, rich, fertile clay soils make up the Mississippi River Alluvial Plain on the western one-third of the state.
3. Hard rock and impenetrable soils make up the Arkansas River Valley and Ouachita Mountain regions of central Arkansas.
4. Sand, silt, stiff clay, loess, and gravel make up the West Gulf Coastal Plain in the southern one-third of the Natural State.
The best way to identify your landscape’s soil type is to send a soil sample in for testing to your local University of Arkansas extension office.
Early morning or evening are the best times to water your native plants. Winds are calmer and temperatures are lower, so there is less risk of water loss from evaporation or scorching from the sun. Additionally, foliage needs time to dry before nightfall. Wet foliage can lead to disease and rot.
Chances are good you already have native plants in your yard or around your neighborhood. If you want to introduce more plants into your Arkansas landscape, be sure to source your plants ethically and never transplant them from the wild.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these resources to connect with local nurseries in your area:
\n\n\n\nFilling your yard with native plants is only one step in your landscaping design project. Be sure to maintain your new landscape by understanding your yard’s grass type and consider reducing your workload by introducing some low-maintenance landscaping ideas.
From the birthplace of Walmart to Little Rock and River Mountain, no matter where you live, you can turn over the hard work and lawn upkeep to a professional. Let WikiLawn connect you with a local landscaping pro in your area so you can spend more time exploring the great Natural State.
Main Image Credit: Redbud Tree / PublicDomainPictures
\n","title":"20 Best Native Plants for Arkansas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/1789c/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/107df/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.jpg 320w,\n/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/293e9/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.jpg 500w,\n/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/f2cbb/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.jpg 800w,\n/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/1789c/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.jpg 960w,\n/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/c26c2/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/1dd6e/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/67b76/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.webp 320w,\n/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/8df11/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.webp 500w,\n/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/98a65/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.webp 800w,\n/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/1dd6e/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.webp 960w,\n/static/1eb963293c189ca763e113294af1d30c/3cc96/redbud-tree-blossoms-and-dew.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"20 Best Native Plants for Arkansas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Check out these Arkansas native plants and find 20 species that thrive in the subtropical climate plus information on where to buy native plants locally."}}},{"node":{"id":"3a6fc71f-68c0-56c6-9d11-5c5233a372c7","slug":"fall-lawn-care-checklist","path":"/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/fall-lawn-care-checklist/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"31b8d887-3e55-503a-9ba9-8fac7d950ccf","name":"Arkansas","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"3f184524-ced0-581e-a7ce-1d315593ccbf","name":"Little Rock","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/"}],"date":"April 3rd, 2023","excerpt":"The weather is milder, you’ve dug your sweater out of the closet just in case, and you’re ready to watch your beloved Razorbacks on TV, but your yard needs TLC. It is easy to mow your lawn and call it a day. However, successful spring lawn care begins in the fall, and September is the […]
\n","content":"\nThe weather is milder, you’ve dug your sweater out of the closet just in case, and you’re ready to watch your beloved Razorbacks on TV, but your yard needs TLC. It is easy to mow your lawn and call it a day. However, successful spring lawn care begins in the fall, and September is the most important month for fertilizer. Follow our fall lawn care checklist to maintain your lawn and prepare it for the winter playoff season.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nProper fall lawn care from September through November sets the foundation for your landscape during the winter months and spring green-up. Proper maintenance during these cool transition months helps your lawn grow deeper, stronger roots.
\n\n\n\nFall lawn care in Little Rock is more than simple mowing. As your yard prepares for the short, cold Arkansas winter, you need to set it up for success with fertilizer, weed control, and consistent mowing. With the proper fall maintenance plan, your yard will be ready to withstand the cold.
\n\n\n\nFall lawn care benefits include:
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Aeration-Tool.jpg\")
Photo Credit: allispossible.org.uk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDense and nutrientless clay soils dominate in Central Arkansas, and the dry, hot summers lead to compaction. Aeration is a common lawn method to introduce oxygen back into struggling lawns and reduce compaction.
\n\n\n\nBoth high summer temperatures and aeration stress your turfgrass, so the milder temperatures in September make the beginning of fall the perfect time to perform aeration on your Little Rock lawn. The process allows water and fertilizer to penetrate the soil more easily, increasing the strength and depth of your lawn’s root system. There are two types of common aeration: core aeration and spike aeration.
\n\n\n\nA core aerator punches into the ground, removing plugs of soil to create small holes so the soil can breathe. Unfortunately, this method leaves leftover soil plugs on the surface of your lawn. While these plugs are an eyesore, it’s important to leave them on the surface to break down naturally. They contain beneficial nutrients and microorganisms to help reduce thatch.
\n\n\n\nCore aeration is the best method for clay soils. These aerators do a better job of breaking through compacted soil to improve nutrient access.
\n\n\n\nSpike aeration is less effective on severely compacted soils. Spike aerators punch small holes in the ground. This method does not remove material from the soil, so there is no loss of aesthetic appeal.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-19.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Galeanu Mihai / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEarly fall is one of the best times to test your soil to ensure it has all the nutrients it needs to thrive. Little Rock soils are notoriously nutrient deficient, so it is important to understand exactly what nutrients your grass is lacking. Arkansas homeowners can send in a soil sample for free soil testing.
\n\n\n\nSimply send in a core sample to receive your results detailing amendments you can make to improve your soil. Common amendments include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium applications and lime for soil pH imbalances.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-20.jpg\")
Photo Credit: groveb / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA fall fertilizer application promotes deep roots and sets your grass up for success during its future spring green-up. Unfortunately, too much of a good thing can harm your landscape, so it is important to start with a soil test first.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to apply fertilizer is in September, while the Arkansas weather is still mild. The best type of fertilizer for your lawn depends on your variety of turfgrass and your unique soil sample test results.
\n\n\n\nFertilizer comprises three primary nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Labels have three numbers, such as 5-10-5, which means the fertilizer contains 5% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 5% potassium. Select a fertilizer ratio to satisfy your soil test results.
\n\n\n\nFertilize your lawn with 0.5 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn in September, six weeks before expected frost. Pay attention to the potassium needs on your soil test results and select a low-nitrogen, high-potassium blend if needed.
\n\n\n\nNever apply nitrogen to St. Augustinegrass, centipedegrass, or Zoysiagrass in the fall. High nitrogen rates increase winter weeds and new growth, which fights against the naturally slowing growth of these turfgrasses as they prepare for winter dormancy. Apply potassium if your soil test recommends it.
\n\n\n\nLime is a fall soil amendment like fertilizer composed of limestone rock ground into powder. It contains calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate. The addition of lime to your turfgrass increases nutrients and soil alkalinity, spreading beneficial bacteria. The ideal pH for your soil depends on the type of turfgrass in your landscape.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Ideal pH Range |
| Bermudagrass | 6.0 – 6.5 |
| Centipedegrass | 5.0 – 6.0 |
| St. Augustinegrass | 6.0 – 6.5 |
| Zoysiagrass | 6.0 – 6.5 |
Apply lime in September, October, or November if your soil test recommends it.
\n\n\n\nApply lime during the fall months only if your soil test shows a pH of less than 5.0.
\n\n\n\n![\"orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Mowing-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Prasannanossam3 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLittle Rock’s subtropical climate and four distinct seasons make for interesting weather, especially in the fall. The city’s autumns are mild with a 45% chance of cloud cover and give way to short, wet, and cold winters. Your grass variety determines your unique mowing schedule and lawn height.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, it is tempting to mow your lawn short and make less work for yourself, but most grass types grow best at higher heights in Arkansas. Cutting your grass short leaves it vulnerable to injury, weeds, and drought stress. Taller grass blades develop deeper roots, setting your lawn up for winter success and a better spring green-up.
\n\n\n\nUnless your lawn is drought-stressed, continue mowing your lawn until October. To avoid injuring your lawn, never mow low or scalp your lawn in the fall, and never remove more than ⅓ of the leaf blade.
\n\n\n\nYou should mow every five to seven days within the recommended range for your grass type. Do not collect clippings unless you see large clumps on your lawn. Always aim to cut less, more often.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Mowing Height |
| Bermudagrass | 0.5 – 2.5 inches |
| Centipedegrass | 1.5 – 2 inches |
| St. Augustinegrass | 2.5 – 4 inches |
| Zoysiagrass | 0.75 – 2.5 inches |
![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_33362501875_0d0e78d669_o.jpg\")
Photo Credit: UBC Micrometeorology / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNo matter what variety of turfgrass your lawn has, Little Rock lawns seldom need irrigating in the fall unless it is brand new. September, October, and November have an average of seven to nine rainy days each in Arkansas, eliminating the need for most supplemental irrigation.
\n\n\n\nIf hot, dry, or windy conditions occur for an extended period, continue a watering regimen until October, aiming for 1 inch of water per week for all varieties. Your lawn needs water if you notice a dark blue-gray color, foot-printing, or wilted, folded, or curled leaves.
\n\n\n\n![\"Summer](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_lawn-spots-1170x750-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYour best defense against lawn disease is routine maintenance, including watering, fertilization, and proper mowing heights. Arkansas’ mild fall temperatures and subtropical climate create the perfect environment for lawn diseases and fungi, including large patch and spring dead spot.
\n\n\n\nLarge patch is a fungus that appears as brown, circular patches several feet in diameter. This disease affects St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and centipedegrass. It does not respond well to fungicides. The most effective control and prevention method is proper lawn maintenance.
\n\n\n\nMonitor patches and improve drainage and air movement. Limit fertilization in affected areas and avoid over-watering.
\n\n\n\nSpring dead spot is not just a spring problem. It is another soil-dwelling fungus affecting bermudagrass in the Southeast. In spring, it appears as circular patches of dead grass ranging in diameter from 6 inches to several feet, and the easiest way to spot it is to monitor your lawn during its active green-up phase as affected areas will not go through the green-up process.
\n\n\n\nIn the fall, spring dead spot is invisible but still active, especially if your lawn has a history of the fungus. Treat suspected spring dead spot in the fall with a preventative application of fungicide in September, October, or November.
\n\n\n\n![\"Chickweed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chickweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWeeds love Little Rock’s subtropical climate. These pests signify an underlying problem with your lawn’s health, including low-nitrogen levels, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf. Weeds siphon vital nutrients, water, and sunlight from your turfgrass and spread pests and diseases. Two common methods of weed control include post-emergent and pre-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\nUnlike other warm-season grasses, Zoysiagrass benefits from a fall application of pre-emergent herbicide designed to kill seeds before germination. While this herbicide will not control existing perennial weeds, it will help control the emergence of new winter annual and perennial broadleaf weeds.
\n\n\n\nPost-emergent herbicides disrupt the growth of winter broadleaf weeds that become a nuisance during Little Rock falls. Always apply the herbicide directly to the active weed. Wait 30 days between applications, and never apply more than two applications per year.
\n\n\n\nCommon winter broadleaf weeds in Little Rock:
\n\n\n\n![\"Two](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Raking-Leaves-on-Lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bigmouth1 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLocations with four seasons like Little Rock attract many homeowners with promises of warm summers, changing fall foliage, and a white Christmas. Watching leaves change from green to autumn gold, bronze, and red is something to look forward to as you sip your pumpkin spice latte and gear up for Friday night football. Unfortunately, the colorful leaves drop to the ground, creating a fluffy and crunchy layer over your lawn.
\n\n\n\nLeaves block out sun, trap moisture, reduce airflow, and lead to dead spots of turfgrass. They increase pest problems and spread disease, so be sure to remove them as soon as possible. Wait until the leaves are dry to rake and prepare to rake your lawn before the first frost or snow of late autumn. The important thing is removing the leaves and layer of thatch left behind. It does not matter if you rake as your leaves fall or wait until all of the leaves in your yard have fallen.
\n\n\n\nMost homeowners can stop mowing their Little Rock lawns in October after the first frost.
Your warm-season turfgrass will go dormant during the end of fall and the beginning of winter. It will dry out and turn brown. The best way to determine if your grass is dormant is by pulling on it. If the grass comes out of the ground easily, it is likely dead. However, if there is resistance from deep roots when you pull on your grass, it is dormant.
No. While some homeowners overseed their warm-season grass with perennial ryegrass to maintain a year-round green lawn, it is not recommended for healthy warm-season turfgrass. The ryegrass slows spring green-up, competing with your warm-season turfgrass and stealing vital nutrients.
Mild fall weather creates a prime environment for routine yard work that will set your lawn up to take on the harsh Arkansas winter and prepare it for a better green-up in the spring. Be sure to check out our spring lawn care tips to get a jump start on what you can expect from your long-term maintenance plan.
If you are short on time and would rather watch football or decorate for Halloween, contact a Little Rock lawn care pro to help your lawn establish deep roots so it can survive the winter.
Main Photo Credit: Jeffries House, North Little Rock, AR / Valis55 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Little Rock, AR","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/1789c/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/107df/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.jpg 320w,\n/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/293e9/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.jpg 500w,\n/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/f2cbb/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.jpg 800w,\n/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/1789c/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.jpg 960w,\n/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/c26c2/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/1dd6e/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/67b76/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.webp 320w,\n/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/8df11/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.webp 500w,\n/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/98a65/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.webp 800w,\n/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/1dd6e/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.webp 960w,\n/static/ff0103893cb21953208e0fa6a8e80717/3cc96/Jeffries-House-North-Little-Rock.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Little Rock, AR","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover 8 valuable tips for maintaining a fall lawn in Little Rock and prepare your grass for the cold Arkansas winters."}}}],"id":"ckaq2gagoi1170974juldmyqt"}}}![Eric Hunt](\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Callicarpa_americana_2.jpg\"){kind=link}