![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Festuca_arundinacea.jpg\")
Everyone wants a fabulous lawn, but who wants to work for it, especially when the weather doesn’t always work in your favor? Well, there are four best grass types for Columbus that can transform your backyard without much effort on your part. The Discovery City is known for its cold winters and regular temperature fluctuations, […]
\n","content":"\nEveryone wants a fabulous lawn, but who wants to work for it, especially when the weather doesn’t always work in your favor? Well, there are four best grass types for Columbus that can transform your backyard without much effort on your part.
\n\n\n\nThe Discovery City is known for its cold winters and regular temperature fluctuations, so cool-season grasses are recommended in this area. These varieties thrive in temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and can handle harsh winter weather.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDepending on where you live in the country, you’ll want to plant either warm-season or cool-season grasses for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses grow best in the spring and fall when temperatures are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re easier to establish than warm-season grasses, and the seeds are readily available to purchase in Columbus.
\n\n\n\nOn the downside, they’re less tolerant of poor soil conditions and require the addition of lime and fertilizer. Plus, they can’t handle drought and extreme heat.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses adapt much better to drought conditions and heat. They grow in temperatures of between 75 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, are long-lived, and can handle sites with low moisture.
\n\n\n\nFor Columbus, cool-season grasses are best. But choosing the right turf type for your yard is no easy feat. It all comes down to understanding the various grasses’ growing and maintenance needs, susceptibility to disease and pests, and resistance to regular wear and tear.
\n\n\n\nWe’ve put together a guide to help you make an informed decision. The cool-season grass you select should boost your home’s curb appeal and withstand the cold Columbus climate.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Bildoj / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a medium-green to blue-green grass that stands out among lawn grass types. It has the thinnest blades, the most shade tolerance, and the lowest moisture and fertilizer needs. It’s not only drought-resistant but stays green all year. If you’re a lawn care beginner, this is the ideal turf.
\n\n\n\nThe downside? It doesn’t do well in high-traffic areas. If your kids or pets regularly run around your property, you might want to choose another turf type.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grasses with one exception: creeping red fescues possess rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage is a must; tolerates infertile soils; sandy soils generally work well
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Often used in a mix with other cool-season grasses, especially in sun/shade mixes.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass (also known as KBG) can stand up to the freezing temperatures of Columbus. It is a high-maintenance, high-quality grass with deep roots that rely on regular watering and fertilizing. KBG can quickly recover from injury, making it ideal for heavy traffic.
\n\n\n\nKBG makes a fine-textured, lush green lawn, but takes about six months to fully thicken up. While it grows best in the sun, it doesn’t tolerate high heat and drought unless it’s well irrigated.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate, but will survive by going dormant
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency; a high-maintenance grass
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, fertile
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Produces a dense lawn under ideal conditions; many of these traits (shade tolerance, drought resistance, etc.) vary widely by cultivar, with newer cultivars generally being hardier, more resistant to disease, etc.; mow taller in summer; most often mixed with other species, such as tall fescue, in home lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is widely used throughout the U.S., but its application varies from region to region. It’s deep green and glossy and has the highest traffic tolerance of any cold-season grass, often used around homes, schools, athletic fields, and parks in Columbus.
\n\n\n\nThis rich, fine-textured grass also wins major points for its fast germination rate, quick establishment, and disease resistance. While not as cold-hardy as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue, perennial ryegrass thrives in moderate summers and cool winters. It’s usually mixed with other types of grasses.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low (summer dormancy in some areas)
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but poor recuperative ability
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing requirement, depending on cutting height (lower cutting heights require more frequent mowing)
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High, especially in areas with hot, humid summers
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, high fertility
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Most often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue in a cool-season mix; well known for its excellent striping ability, low mowing tolerance (reel mower fans, this one’s for you), and rapid germination rate (four to seven days). Needs moderate levels of fertilizer.
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Levin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a dark green grass with a coarse texture, perfect for areas that don’t get much sun. It’s generally insect- and disease-resistant, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance. You’ll often find it on athletic fields and playgrounds.
\n\n\n\nThe seed grows in the sun and partial shade and can handle both wet and dry soil. Tall fescue creates shorter, denser, and darker green lawns than other varieties. In fact, given its many attributes, it could be labeled as the perfect grass for Columbus and the rest of Ohio.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate, but low ability to recuperate from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Fast rate of growth, so plan to mow often
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations. Many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side.)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate under proper management conditions
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Fertile, good drainage, but will tolerate a wider range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Reseed every few years to repair bare spots and thinning; don’t plant old varieties such as Kentucky-31; look for “turf-type” tall fescue (TTTF). Seed blends with more than one TTTF cultivar give the best chance for a strong lawn.
\n\n\n\nYou should plant a grass variety suited to the soil, water, and light conditions in your yard. Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass require moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Fine or tall fescue can survive in much harsher conditions, such as deep shade and poor, dry, and acidic soil.
Fine and tall fescue prefer the shade, while Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass flourish in sunnier areas.
If you’re not one for yard work, there are some low-maintenance options like fine or tall fescue. Kentucky bluegrass requires more effort if you want a high-quality, lush lawn.
If you’re not an outdoorsy person and simply want to have a beautiful-looking lawn, you should opt for tall or fine fescue grass. But if your kids or pets regularly give your property a good workout, go for a sturdy grass type such as Kentucky bluegrass.
Many factors go into creating a green, healthy, rich lawn, but the first step is selecting the right grass for the Columbus climate. Ohio is evenly split between USDA zones 5 and 6, making it the perfect environment for cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nA fabulous lawn is a refreshing sight. The good news is, you don’t have to slave over your yard to make it happen. A Columbus lawn care pro can help you select the best grass and give you a show-stopping lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Ohio-Columbus / John Dewees / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Columbus, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/1789c/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/107df/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/293e9/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/f2cbb/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/1789c/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/c26c2/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/1dd6e/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/67b76/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.webp 320w,\n/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/8df11/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.webp 500w,\n/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/98a65/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.webp 800w,\n/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/1dd6e/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.webp 960w,\n/static/d6603af154de8571e399b12256d351a1/3cc96/Ohio-Columbus-Columbus_Museum_of_Art-2017-04-23-029-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Columbus, OH | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Looking for the perfect grass type for your yard? Discover the 4 best grass types for Columbus so you can enjoy a lush, healthy lawn."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"dd348d50-fe3f-5414-813b-6de83fbfca7c","slug":"eco-friendly-lawn-care-tips-for-dallas-residents","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/eco-friendly-lawn-care-tips-for-dallas-residents/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"January 7th, 2019","excerpt":"Having a brilliant green and lush lawn has long been the envy of many homeowners. Consistently achieving a thick verdant carpet has become the epitome of a well-cared-for property. Often times we see our front lawns as the welcome mat to our homes and businesses. A well-kept lawn and landscape signify dedication and attention to […]
\n","content":"\nHaving a brilliant green and lush lawn has long been the envy of many homeowners. Consistently achieving a thick verdant carpet has become the epitome of a well-cared-for property. Often times we see our front lawns as the welcome mat to our homes and businesses. A well-kept lawn and landscape signify dedication and attention to detail, traits we value in ourselves as well as others. It helps us put our best foot forward, boosting curb appeal, and giving us a sense of gratification at the well-deserved results of our hard work.
\n\n\n\nWhile the desire to have a nice lawn is certainly not a bad thing, it does often come at a high price. Americans spent roughly $29.1 billion on lawn care products and services in 2015 alone. Sod, seed, hydromulch, fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides; lawn mowing, weed whacking, leaf blowing, the list of products and tasks needed for quality lawn care goes on and on.
\n\n\n\nBesides taking a large chunk out of our pocketbooks, traditional lawn care also takes a large toll on the environment. You may have guessed that given how many resources people pour onto their lawns to keep them green, they aren’t actually that “green” in practice. In order to keep lawns green, lots of water is used. Many lawn owners also use harmful pesticides and herbicides on their grass. These toxins can end up in our waterways and in our food. And lawn maintenance releases greenhouse gases, such as with the fuel needed for lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and edging.
\n\n\n\nSo, is it possible to have the best of both worlds? A green healthy lawn that is both economical and environmentally responsible?
\n\n\n\nThe answer is YES!
\n\n\n\nSpeaking specifically for lawn care, putting into place an ‘eco-friendly’ maintenance plan requires little change from traditional methods.
\n\n\n\nThe key components for an eco-friendly lawn have to do with these two things:
\n\n\n\n‘Building healthy soil biology’ can sound like a task larger than most property owners are willing to take on. Keep in mind these simple steps and you will be well on your way to creating and maintaining healthy soil and plants. No additional science classes required!
Now that a healthy soil profile has been developed, Dallas residents should look at using a native turf blend such as Habiturf. This blend of three native grasses, developed by the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, simulates shortgrass prairies. But don’t let that fact make you think your yard will look wild and unkempt. Habiturf provides all the visual beauty of a uniform lawn with the drought-tolerance and low maintenance of native Texas grasses. Heartiness is achieved through the use of multiple species, but the uniformity of the leaves and color make for a lush, beautiful lawn. Just be sure to plant in the proper location as it does not do well in shady areas. For more information and where to buy check out the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or local seed suppliers such as Native American Seed for more native Texas seed and wildflower mix.
Another issue Dallas property owners face is growing turfgrass under our beautiful shade trees. With plentiful hot summer days, the shade of large mature Live Oak is worth its weight in gold. Under these precious trees, however, little to no turf can grow due to the deep shade. This is where using a grass-like plant called ‘sedge’ becomes a game changer. Texas Sedge is a low water use native and works well in shady areas where St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia grass is difficult to grow. It produces wispy mounds of foliage that can tolerate light foot traffic and can be mowed yearly at a high setting.
With some thought and planning, a green lawn really can equal a green choice for the environment!
\n\n\n\nLooking for more lawn care tips? Visit our Dallas lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"Eco-Friendly Lawn Care Tips for Dallas Residents","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4927113702623906,"src":"/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/1789c/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/107df/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.jpg 320w,\n/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/293e9/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.jpg 500w,\n/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/f2cbb/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.jpg 800w,\n/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/1789c/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.jpg 960w,\n/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/a2a79/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/1dd6e/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/67b76/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.webp 320w,\n/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/8df11/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.webp 500w,\n/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/98a65/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.webp 800w,\n/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/1dd6e/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.webp 960w,\n/static/5daae097f2352831aa0d5283e9d41c05/7aa54/reel-mower-for-eco-friendly-dallas-post.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Eco-Friendly Lawn Care Tips for Dallas Residents | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"06b1c012-b4a8-5bd1-ab44-db02882c2ecd","slug":"best-native-plants-pacific-northwest","path":"/lawn-care/pacific-northwest/best-native-plants-pacific-northwest/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"e3d78548-e4c5-5661-afcd-3346a26d8d46","name":"Pacific Northwest","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/pacific-northwest/"}],"date":"May 27th, 2023","excerpt":"From the Oregon Coast to the Olympic National Park, the Pacific Northwest (PNW) has many places you can visit to take in the natural, organic beauty of native plants and wildlife. Falling in love with the diverse flora of the area can leave you wanting more. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best […]
\n","content":"\nFrom the Oregon Coast to the Olympic National Park, the Pacific Northwest (PNW) has many places you can visit to take in the natural, organic beauty of native plants and wildlife. Falling in love with the diverse flora of the area can leave you wanting more. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best native plants for the Pacific Northwest. You can create a smaller version of a diverse plant culture in your yard.
\n\n\n\nThis article allows you to invite as much of the Pacific Northwest’s native roots into your yard as you’d like. We’ve identified shrubs, wildflowers, perennials, and other native vegetation you can place in flower beds, plant as groundcovers or lawn specimens, or use in any way you prefer.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Flowering-Currant.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter Stevens / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlthough this shrub’s edible berries have been accused of being insipid, they have been used to make juice, pies, syrup, and wine. Birds and mammals, like deer, squirrels, and foxes, also like the taste of the fruit. If you don’t mind sharing, red flowering currant is a good choice for your home.
\n\n\n\nThis shrub also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. They won’t fight with the mammals or you over the fruit, because the pollinators and birds are drawn to the showy, drooping pinkish-red flowers.
\n\n\n\nThis edible plant is low-maintenance. She thrives best in well-drained, rocky soil, but also tolerates poor soil. This shrub grows in both full sun and partial shade.
\n\n\n\nOnce red flowering currant, also called blood currant, is established, she is drought tolerant. Start her off with plenty of water in her first one to two seasons.
\n\n\n\nPlant red flowering currant as hedges or in a wildlife garden. She’ll also do well in rain gardens and xeriscape landscapes.
\n\n\n\nNative Regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Deciduous shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers well-drained, rocky soil but tolerates poor soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet sage-rosemary
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water the first two summers of establishment
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8-10 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Western](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Western-Columbine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Franco Folini from San Francisco, USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWestern columbine is great for a softer touch to your home garden. She has delicate-looking red and yellow flowers that flare outward at the bottom. But beware: columbine is not as innocent as she seems. She contains a toxin that can cause stomach issues and heart palpitations.
\n\n\n\nWestern columbine will only last about two to three years. However, she proliferates by self-seeding. Hummingbirds and butterflies enjoy the blossoms that sprout in late spring to early summer.
\n\n\n\nThis plant is commonly found in moist areas, like woodlands and forests. She grows well in a variety of soil types, just as long as the soil drains well. Columbine prefers the shade but will work with full sun if she is kept moist. She is easy to grow and works well in shade gardens and borders.
\n\n\n\nNative Regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade (preferably)
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalky, clay, loamy, or sandy soil that’s well-drained and nutrient-rich
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: N/A
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Contain toxin that can cause stomach issues or heart palpitations
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low; deadhead fading blooms and cut back in mid-summer
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Redosier-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRed-osier dogwood is also known as red twig dogwood. She distinguishes herself with stems that are a bright red in the fall and winter. The spring brings a cluster of white flowers, which turn to white berries in the summer. Pollinators and butterflies are attracted to the flowers, while birds satisfy their hunger with the berries.
\n\n\n\nRed-osier grows quickly, but you can root prune this plant to control her size. This shrub is a good candidate for movement because she transplants successfully.
\n\n\n\nIf you like to see color in the winter, red-osier will make great shrub borders.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 2 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand, moist, adaptable to a wide range of soils.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 9 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. Use a spade to root prune if you want to stop her from vigorously spreading. Prune in early spring to encourage new stem growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Mahonia_aquifolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The original uploader was Meggar at English Wikipedia. / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall Oregon grape, also called holly-leaved barberry, is an excellent choice for homes with small children or pets. Unlike western columbine, tall Oregon grape is non-toxic and has been used for its medicinal properties. It is both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.
\n\n\n\nThe flowers emerge bright and yellow in the spring. The blue-colored berries, which resemble grapes, arrive in the summer. Pollinators are attracted to the cluster of showy petals, while birds and wildlife get a mouthful of the purplish berries.
\n\n\n\nTall Oregon grape thrives in partial to full shade. This shrub makes a tasty hedge or addition to woodland and shade gardens.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, acidic, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Honey
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Camas-Camassia-quamashh.jpg\")
Photo Credit: brewbooks from near Seattle, USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommon camas could be mistaken for grass, except for the beautiful light blue flowers that grow atop the long grass-like blades. The petals blossom from late spring to early summer. Common camas has low to medium maintenance requirements, and she is highly pest and disease resistant.
\n\n\n\nShe thrives best when planted in the fall and when she receives full sun. Camas adapts to partial shade, but will only grow a percentage of her potential in shady conditions.
\n\n\n\nShe works well planted in groups. Add color to beds and borders with common camas, or by using this wildflower as underplantings for shrubs and roses.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering plant/wildflower
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, very little shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: High organic matter with good drainage; tolerates seasonally moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Spicy; Smells like molasses when boiled
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average (Natively found in moist, spring meadows that dry by late spring)
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 30 inches
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low to medium
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/217464248_8be3dd9dcc_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: brewbooks / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a plant that brings color during the fall, pacific red elderberry is for you. She blooms a cluster of white flowers in late spring to early summer. The berries emerge in the fall bringing both nourishment for birds and autumn color. As tasty as the fruit may look, be mindful that the berries are toxic when uncooked.
\n\n\n\nPacific red elderberry grows naturally in moist woodlands and stream banks. She is accustomed to moist soil and is a great choice to plant next to a creek. This shrub also works well in borders and beds. Just make sure she gets enough sun or she will not grow to her fullest potential.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained, loamy
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Skunk smell
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 10 feet in a garden (up to 18 feet in the wild)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The seeds are poisonous, and the raw berries may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium; prune to contain the spread
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Serviceberry-Amelanchier-alnifolia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Thayne Tuason / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nServiceberry is another plant that offers homeowners tasty treats. The berries have been used to make jellies and jams and for medicinal purposes.
\n\n\n\nWhite flowers blossom in mid-spring and attract pollinators. Birds come for the berries. Serviceberry will grow in full sun or partial shade. To make sure she sprouts her tasty berries, plant her where she will receive lots of sunlight.
\n\n\n\nServiceberry does well in pollinator gardens and, of course, edible gardens.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loamy or sandy; well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Lightly scented
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 16 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Oceanspray\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Oceanspray-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe Mabel / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOceanspray has green leaves that are hairy on one side. The small petaled white flowers bloom from late spring to late summer. Oceanspray bears fruit that often remains into the fall and winter. Bees and hummingbirds enjoy this shrub, which can grow as tall as 20 feet.
\n\n\n\nOceanspray is a good choice for all three states in the Pacific Northwest. This plant is adaptable to multiple soil types. She is also drought-tolerant, making her ideal for the PNW areas that are prone to seasonal desert-like conditions.
\n\n\n\nOceanspray is pest- and disease-resistant and requires little pruning. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance shrub, oceanspray will fit well in your cottage or coastal garden.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 6 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, chalk, clay, sand, well-drained, dry to moist
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet and sugary
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June – August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 10 feet tall, but can reach heights up to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Lewis-Mock-Orange-Philadelphus-lewisii.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk from Berkeley, CA, United States of America / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLewis’ mock orange is also referred to as wild mock orange, named for the sweet scent that is similar to orange blossoms. This shrub bears white flowers in the spring and summer. You’ll not only give back to the ecosystem because mock orange attracts butterflies, but this sweet-smelling plant is also a shelter for wildlife.
\n\n\n\nA property with full sun or partial shade will give this plant a thriving environment. Although rich soils are her preference, mock orange adapts to a variety of soil types. She has a fibrous root system that helps prevent erosion.
\n\n\n\nPlant mock orange in borders, hedges, and low-maintenance landscaping designs.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers gravelly and nutrient-rich soils, but tolerates a variety of soil types, like chalk, loam, and sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Orangey scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low-medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 5 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to cats
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jitaeri / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommon yarrow boasts clusters of tiny petaled white flowers. She attracts pollinators but is toxic to pets. She can cause skin irritation and increased photosensitivity if touched, so yarrow is another plant to keep out of the reach of small children. It may seem ironic, but this plant has also been used for medicinal purposes to treat stomach aches, rashes, and fevers.
\n\n\n\nShe is low-maintenance and although she prefers moist soil that is well-drained, she tolerates multiple soil types. You will see a lot of her if you plant her in flower or garden beds, as she is prone to spread aggressively. If you’re looking for a flowering groundcover to replace some turfgrass, common yarrow is a good choice.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist but well-drained, all soil types
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Pine
\n\n\n\nBloom Time/Season of Interest: Late spring, summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested; for humans, may cause skin irritation or increase photosensitivity if touched
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/39114468694_a55e6cddd3_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEvergreen huckleberry has edible berries that grow in the summer. With this evergreen, you can feed the wildlife and birds that nibble on the fruit. The berries have been used to make pies and jellies.
\n\n\n\nThis shrub is an attractive display, with her white flowers and reddish leaves appearing in the spring. She thrives best in full sun or part shade.
\n\n\n\nWhile she tolerates yards with trees blocking the sunlight, she may not bear flowers or fruit if she is planted in full shade. On the other hand, huckleberry grows tallest in the shade. In the sun she may reach 3 feet; in the shade, she may tower at heights up to 10 feet.
\n\n\n\nLooking for some ingredients for jam or syrup and a plant for your xeriscape design? This shrub is drought-resistant, so she’ll fit in well. Huckleberry is also an excellent choice for hedges and rain gardens or planted next to patios.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Washington and Oregon; not native to Idaho
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Needled Evergreen shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Sun or shade; prefers partial or full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Tolerates sand, clay, and soils low in organic content; requires acidic soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Musky
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Feb – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, Medium to wet
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 10 feet tall; grows taller in shade
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: High
\n\n\n\nChoose plants in your area’s USDA hardiness zone. Hardiness zones help gardeners know which plants will survive their area’s coldest winter temperatures. It will still take work to maintain the plants, but because the plants have adapted to the area, they will need less fertilizing, watering, and other upkeep tasks than non-native plants.
\n\n\n\nKnowing your soil type, how well it drains, and how much sun or shade your yard receives helps you choose plants that are well-suited for your home. Select plants that your yard’s size can accommodate. For example, a small property is probably not a good fit for a Douglas fir tree, which grows very large.
\n\n\n\nIt is also a good idea to choose plants that have a maintenance schedule that matches your availability to care for them. Likewise, select plants that fit your family’s composition. Be mindful of vegetation with hazard precautions if you have small children or pets.
\n\n\n\nSeattle’s best native plants include:
• Pacific Bleeding Heart
• Vine Maple
• Wild Ginger
• Salal
• Evergreen Huckleberry
Here are some of the best native plants for Washington:
• Velvet Lupine
• Sagebrush
• Western Columbine
• Vine Maple
• Salal
• Indian Plum
These are some native plants best for the state of Idaho:
• Golden Currant
• Woods’ Rose
• Rose Spirea
• Roundleaf Snowberry
Oregon’s best native plants include:
• Western Bleeding Heart
• Salal
• Vine Maple
• Pacific Beach Strawberry
Native plants are beneficial to the environment in many ways, including reducing pollutants that enter the water supply and sustaining the ecosystem. Growing native plants can also reduce your workload by decreasing the time you spend maintaining them. Here are some advantages of using native plants:
• Adaptability and low maintenance: Native plants are adapted to the local environment, including soil conditions and climate, so they are more likely to thrive with less watering and fertilizing. Once native plants are established, in addition to needing less watering and fertilizing, they typically require less maintenance overall.
• Higher tolerance and cleaner water: Native plants generally have a higher tolerance for local diseases and pests, requiring fewer pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical treatments. This means fewer harmful substances run off into the water.
• Biodiversity: Native plants sustain biodiversity and support the local ecosystem by providing food sources and habitat to pollinators, insects, and wildlife.
With all of the parks, waterfronts, and outdoor scenery across the Pacific Northwest, you have more than likely seen a diverse array of native plants. To find vegetation for your home, King County has plant guides and other information that can help you identify flora in the Washington and PNW area. Oregon State University is another resource for native plants in the PNW area.
\n\n\n\nNow that you have the resources you need for your native plant oasis, make sure you have a lawn that is lush and healthy, too. Contact a lawn care pro near you to do the mowing, edging, and trimming so you can spend more time enjoying the waterfall at Multnomah Falls.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Oregon Garden / Travel Salem / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
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\n","content":"\nFort Worth has something to make everyone smile – plentiful sunshine, a square-jawed Western heritage, taco and barbecue joints everywhere and museums and universities galore.
\n\n\n\nAnd lawns. Lots of lawns that need mowing watering and trimming. Here’s a guide to how to keep your Fort Worth lawn happy so you can spend more time on it, and more time enjoying the 13th-largest city in the United States.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth likes you to keep up the appearance of your lawn. In fact, it insists, in the form of a code compliance office that will issue you a notice if your grass is taller than 12 inches. Properties overgrown with high grass and weeds are not just unsightly, the city says, but “they pose a fire hazard, block visibility for driers, harbor rodents and snakes and contribute to pests like mosquitoes and chiggers.”
\n\n\n\nIgnore the notice for more than 10 days and the city will send out a crew to cut it for you. The cost: $250, payable within 30 days. Failure to pay can result in a lien being placed against the property.
\n\n\n\nIf your neighbor’s grass gets too high, the city makes it easy to file a complaint online.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass are the most common grasses for lawns in Fort Worth. Zoysia varieties are also making their mark.
\n\n\n\nIn the mood for something more exotic? Texas-bred native grasses based on buffalograss have great drought tolerance, though the appearance is scruffily untraditional. The Botanical Research Institute of Texas in Fort Worth is one of many buildings experimenting with a buffalograss blend.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses such as the ones that thrive in Fort Worth have their heaviest growth in the summer, so you’ll want to keep to a regular mowing schedule then. If you’re doing the job yourself in the 90+ degree heat, keep your mower blades sharp to prevent shredding that could injure your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMowing heights for different grass varieties are as follows:
\n\n\n\nIn the past, the typical practice was to remove lawn clippings and have them hauled to the landfill. That’s no longer the case, as lawn clippings are now seen as an important source of fertilizer for the lawn. On a typical lawn, leaving the clippings in place to decompose and return nitrogen to the soil for a full season added enough nutrients for you to skip one round of fertilization.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth’s climate is on the hot side, with average highs in the mid-90s in July and August. Expect about 40 inches of rain, with May, June and October the wettest months. That leaves a lot of hot, dry days in the mid to late summer in between, when your lawn will want a deep drink of water. But you’ll need to follow the city’s watering restrictions, imposed year-round to conserve the resource. Lawn irrigation by sprinkler or irrigation system is banned from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Penalties are stiff for violation: up to $2,000 for each offense.
\n\n\n\nBe polite and don’t mow too early or too late. The city has a noise ordinance. While it does not mention lawn mowers or leaf blowers specifically, it does bar “unreasonable noise,” especially at night.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about lawn mowing and maintenance in Fort Worth? We got you covered! Go to our Fort Worth, TX lawn care page for more information.
So, you just installed a new lawn. What next? How about choosing plants to finish off your landscaping? But not all plants are ideal for DC’s climate, which ranges from cold and snowy in the winter to steamy in the summer. Consider going with native these nine plants that look great and are well-adapted to […]
\n","content":"\nSo, you just installed a new lawn. What next? How about choosing plants to finish off your landscaping? But not all plants are ideal for DC’s climate, which ranges from cold and snowy in the winter to steamy in the summer. Consider going with native these nine plants that look great and are well-adapted to our four seasons in Washington.
\n\n\n\nThe top candidates are:
\n\n\n\nNative plants have adapted to the our climate, meaning they don’t need as much maintenance as non-native plants. They also come with the following benefits:
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Flowering-Dogwood-Cornus-florida.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nFound in gardens and yards throughout the DC area, the flowering dogwood is a popular and well-recognized small tree. White, showy, fragrant flowers bloom in the spring (which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies), giving way to red berries in the fall.
\n\n\n\nWhile stressed, flowering dogwoods are susceptible to diseases like powdery mildew, although none are life-threatening.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Grows best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nSoil: organically rich, moist, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 30 feet, sometimes reaching 40 feet.
\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\nWith its beautiful pink and purple spring flowers and heart-shaped leaves, the eastern redbud is a DC favorite. It’s used as a garden accent under larger trees. Wildlife love the pods that release seeds in the fall.
\n\n\n\nThe eastern redbud’s stems can come down with canker (a fungus), but pruning them eliminates the infection.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial sun, full shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Dry or moist soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Any moist, well-draining, nutrient-rich soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 20 to 30 feet tall, with a 25- to 35-foot spread.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Serviceberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you need a small tree for your garden, consider the serviceberry. This early flowering tree has edible fruits (similar to blueberries) and, in the fall, brilliant orange-red foliage. Its flowers provide pollen and nectar to beneficial insects and birds.
\n\n\n\nServiceberries are vulnerable to diseases, which can make their fruit inedible to people (but not wildlife). Disease severity varies from year to year, partially due to weather conditions.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Acidic, moist, and well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 25 feet tall, with a 15- to 25-foot spread.
\n\n\n\n![\"File:Viburnum](\"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5a/Viburnum_dentatum_3zz.jpg/800px-Viburnum_dentatum_3zz.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNo matter the season, the arrowwood viburnum offers something of interest. White flowers bloom in late spring, followed by blue and black drupes (fruits) in the summer and fall, which birds and small animals love. In the fall, arrowwood viburnum turns yellow, orange, or red.
\n\n\n\nArrowwood viburnum prefers dry, moist, or wet soils and full to partial sun. It grows in an irregular, rounded shape.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Dry, moist, or wet soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam or sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 10 feet tall
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Winterberry-Ilex-Verticillata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Derek Ramsey / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a shrub that provides beauty in the winter months, the winterberry holly is a good choice. In the fall, it loses its leaves and grows bright red berries that birds and moths love.
\n\n\n\nWinterberry holly is dioecious, meaning there are male and female flowers on separate plants. The females produce berries, while the males provide the pollen the females need.
\n\n\n\nSome winterberry hollies bloom earlier than others. The more overlap between male and female blooms, the better the pollination and berry production.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moist or wet soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, well-drained, acidic (doesn’t like neutral or basic soils)
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 12 feet tall
\n\n\n\n![\"berries](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Callicarpa_americana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Korall / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nYou would expect a plant with “beauty” in its name to be beautiful, and the American beautyberry delivers on that front. Lavender flower clusters appear in the summer, giving way to magenta fruit in the fall.
\n\n\n\nIf you want the best fruit, plant the American beautyberry in full sun and dry, acidic soils. However, this shrub manages just fine in partial shade.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 7 to 11
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low (one inch per week)
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Partridge-Berry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnother favorite of winter gardens, partridge berry has deep, dark-green leaves and scarlet berries. In late spring, pairs of white flowers bloom. Both flowers in each pair need pollination before a single berry appears.
\n\n\n\nPartridge berries prefer shade but accept the morning sun. When planted in the garden, they’ll form a thick ground cover and only demand you keep garden debris away from them.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to deep shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Acidic, good drainage, moist, occasionally dry
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moist or wet soil
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lydia Fravel / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWant pollinators? Plant swamp milkweed. This plant attracts numerous beneficial insects, hummingbirds, and native bees. It grows flat clusters of pink and white flowers, and exudes a milky juice when broken.
\n\n\n\nSwamp milkweeds thrive in any type of garden soil as long as it doesn’t completely dry out, especially in the spring. Because of this, it’s a great addition to a native plant garden.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay or loam
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moist or wet soil
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red_Columbine_3630187830-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nContinuing with pollinator favorites, we have the red columbine. Its nodding, red, bell-like flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It generally lives 3 to 5 years and doesn’t need to be divided. However, it needs sun to partial shade and dry and moist soil.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, silt, or sandy soil that’s well-drained, moist, dry-ish
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Weekly or whenever the soil is completely dry
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nYou can plant perennials as early as February. If you have any annuals, plant them in April.
Invasive plants are non-native plants that can cause economic, environmental, and health harm. They don’t have natural predators, produce many seeds, and grow aggressively.
It isn’t recommended, as poaching seeds and plants from wild areas will deplete these areas of the seeds they need to be self-sustaining. Nurseries will raise these native plants or ensure they weren’t stolen from the wild.
Take a look at your backyard. You might have some of these plants growing there. If you don’t, or if you want to buy more, the nation’s capital has plenty of nurseries to buy them, such as:
\n\n\n\nOnce you buy your fill of native plants, your lawn is next. Outfit it with some of the best grass types in Washington, DC, to ensure the healthiest lawn possible. However, you don’t need to lift a finger, unless it’s to pick up your cell phone and call one of Wikilawn’s local pros to do the work for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: cultivar413 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"9 Native Plants for Your Washington DC Landscape","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/1789c/winterberry.jpg","srcSet":"/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/107df/winterberry.jpg 320w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/293e9/winterberry.jpg 500w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/f2cbb/winterberry.jpg 800w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/1789c/winterberry.jpg 960w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/c26c2/winterberry.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/1dd6e/winterberry.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/67b76/winterberry.webp 320w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/8df11/winterberry.webp 500w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/98a65/winterberry.webp 800w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/1dd6e/winterberry.webp 960w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/3cc96/winterberry.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Native Plants for Your Washington DC Landscape | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Turn your DC garden into something extraordinary with these native plants that look great and are well-suited to all four seasons"}}},{"node":{"id":"a87b2533-edf7-5102-9741-fde44d6d6b55","slug":"best-grass-types-colorado-springs-co","path":"/lawn-care/co/colorado-springs/best-grass-types-colorado-springs-co/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Austin Geiger is an avid reader and writer. He has loved to read and write from a young age, and does both daily. His favorite subjects are fantasy and comedy, and he despises run-on sentences.","name":"Austin Geiger","id":"69bc552e-2c03-5c38-acc7-562e86f2a201","path":"/author/austin-geiger/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5baab15ab5786cfd4d2372bb580f441c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"be8bb3a1-b40c-57ba-87f7-ff69490271a0","name":"Colorado","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/"},{"id":"253dba4d-dac0-5b2a-b00c-9b16e649ac14","name":"Colorado Springs","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/colorado-springs/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"March 24th, 2023","excerpt":"When you’re picking out new grass for your outdoor space, it’s important to choose one that both looks great and can handle your local area’s environmental conditions. This is especially true when it comes to Colorado and its harsh winters. The 6 best grass types for Colorado Springs can handle the local environment while still […]
\n","content":"\nWhen you’re picking out new grass for your outdoor space, it’s important to choose one that both looks great and can handle your local area’s environmental conditions. This is especially true when it comes to Colorado and its harsh winters. The 6 best grass types for Colorado Springs can handle the local environment while still making your landscape look like a dream.
\n\n\n\nHere are six grass types that can help your lawn look its best, even when Jack Frost is nipping at your nose:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grass grows best in temperatures between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while cool-season grasses grow best between 60 and 75 degrees. Both warm-season and cool-season grasses can thrive in Colorado Springs since the city’s average temperatures fall within both of their comfortable ranges.
\n\n\n\nThe main difference between warm-season and cool-season grasses is the time of year they grow. Warm-season grasses experience active growth starting in late spring and then go dormant in early to mid-fall. Cool-season grasses, on the other hand, actively start growing in early spring, enter summer dormancy, return to green in fall, and then enter winter dormancy.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses also have a higher tolerance for frost, shade, and low temperatures, whereas warm-season grasses don’t do as well with these conditions. Conversely, warm-season grass is more tolerant of sun, heat, and drought.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pilot138-17 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is one of the most common grass types in Colorado, and for good reason. Its striking dark green color helps it stand out. Its soft, smooth leaves combined with its moderate foot traffic tolerance and thick turf make it perfect for walking on barefoot or engaging in outdoor activities.
\n\n\n\nIf you like spending time outdoors working on your lawn, then Kentucky bluegrass is a good choice. It requires a bit more maintenance than other grasses on this list, both in mowing and especially fertilization.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass likes plenty of sun, so it’s a good choice for less shaded yards that get a lot of natural light. It’s also a thirsty grass, requiring about 2 to 2.5 inches of water per week in the summer, so make sure you don’t get caught in the sprinklers while you’re soaking up some rays.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Moderate mowing and high fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5-3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate to high. Possible diseases include dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Well-drained heavy soil with high fertility
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Kentucky bluegrass is among the most common grass types used for lawns and sports fields in the United States.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is another common Colorado grass. It’s more tolerant of shade than Kentucky bluegrass, which makes it a better choice for yards with trees or other overhanging areas that block out sunlight. It also has better drought and heat tolerance, but don’t let yourself be fooled into thinking that this means it can go without water completely when the weather gets dry.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is typically medium to dark green in color. Its coarse texture may make it a poor choice if you plan to spend a lot of time on the grass. But thankfully it can still handle some level of outdoor activity thanks to its decent foot traffic tolerance.
\n\n\n\nAs far as maintenance goes, the only notable need that tall fescue has is frequent mowing, which can be attributed to its quick growth rate. If you’re looking for a hardy grass that’s easy to care for and have soil that you can’t quite coax other plant life out of, then tall fescue may be the grass type for you.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Short rhizomes with bunch-type growth
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Frequent mowing
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: Set mowing height to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Low when properly maintained
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage, but tolerates a wide variety of soils
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Tall fescue grass has very good heat tolerance compared to most cool-season grasses
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a dark green grass with a fine texture that grows in bunches. In terms of foot tolerance, it’s one of the best there is, making it the perfect candidate if you plan to play outdoor sports or host neighborhood get-togethers.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass also pairs very well with other grass types, such as fescues and Kentucky bluegrass. Mixing it with either type can result in a lawn that grows better and is more disease resistant than either would be alone, which is important due to ryegrass’ penchant for sickness.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass soaks up the sun well, so if your lawn doesn’t get much shade, this could be the grass for you. Just keep in mind its low drought tolerance, which means that you’ll need to water it more frequently than other grass types during the dry seasons.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: High. Common diseases include leaf spot, gray leaf spot, and red thread
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-8, prefers 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: High fertility, can tolerate poor drainage but prefers good drainage
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Perennial ryegrass doesn’t develop significant thatch
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is another cool-season grass common in Colorado. Its light blue-green color and fine texture make it a very attractive grass type for suburban lawns. It’s also the most shade-tolerant cool-season grass, particularly the chewings fescue.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue’s moderate to high drought tolerance lets it last much longer with less water than most grasses when the weather gets dry. Combined with its low maintenance requirements and tolerance of most soil types, this makes it an extremely hardy grass that can grow in conditions that other types can’t tolerate for one reason or another.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, fine fescue’s low tolerance for foot traffic means that you won’t be able to host barbecues on it every day. If you’re looking for a great-looking hardy lawn that you don’t intend to use all that much, fine fescue sounds like the grass for you.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Depends on the exact species. Creeping red spreads through rhizomes, while most are bunch-type grasses
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Low to Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5-4 inches, depending on the species
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Prefers dry soil. Otherwise, tolerates a wide variety of different soil types and fertility levels
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Many of fine fescue’s attributes depend on the species. Some will have higher shade, drought, and foot traffic tolerance than others
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/1024px-Blue_grama_Bouteloua_gracilis_MN_2007.jpg\")
Photo Credit: SEWilco / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBlue grama grass may be a warm-season grass, but don’t worry, it can handle the Colorado Springs weather just as well as any cold-season grass. It does go dormant when the temperatures drop too low, but otherwise, it makes for a fine-looking grass that can handle whatever Colorado can throw at it.
\n\n\n\nDue to blue grama’s bunch-type growth, you’ll have to seed it thickly to use it as a complete ground cover. It’s certainly possible, but you may be better off using blue grama as a complement for other grass types that can form a carpet more easily. Its exceptional foot traffic tolerance makes it good for reinforcing other grasses that don’t handle it as well.
\n\n\n\nThanks to blue grama’s high drought tolerance and love for the sun, it does extremely well in an open lawn without much shade. In addition, it’s a very good choice for xeriscaping should you choose to make the switch.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: High unless dormant
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate. Common diseases include fungal rust and leaf and tar spot
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.6-8.4
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Well-drained sandy or clay soil with little organic content
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Despite being a warm-season grass, blue grama is native to Colorado and is very good for xeriscaping, especially as an ornamental grass.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/buffalograss.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is another warm-season grass that can handle the conditions of the Colorado Springs area. It has a beautiful gray to blue-green color with a fine texture that makes it comfortable to walk on with bare feet. But unfortunately, its poor tolerance for foot traffic makes it a bad idea to play backyard football on a regular basis.
\n\n\n\nLike blue grama, buffalograss has a very good drought tolerance and does best with lots of sun. But unlike blue grama, buffalograss is not a bunch-type grass. This means it easily forms a proper ground cover via stolons. However, keep in mind that buffalograss forms a thick thatch that you’ll need to remove about once a year.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is also very low maintenance aside from weed control and keeping away diseases. Overall, it’s a great grass type for someone who wants a good-looking front lawn that they don’t intend to use very often.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low fertilization and mowing, but does require weed control
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: High
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Prefers clay soil and does not tolerate sandy soil
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Buffalograss is another warm-season grass native to Colorado that grows very well in the Great Plains
\n\n\n\nYes, xeriscaping is an excellent water-saving approach in Colorado yards. Blue grama grass is an excellent turf choice if you wish to xeriscape.
It depends on what type of grass you choose. Seed cool-season grasses in spring or fall, and warm-season grasses between late spring and summer.
Colorado Springs is in the transition zone. This means that it can support both cool-season grasses and warm-season grasses.
Yes, cool-season grass can enter dormancy when soil temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool-season grass may also enter dormancy in hot summers.
Keep in mind that every species of grass varies in different tolerances depending on its cultivar. Shop around and make sure you get a grass cultivar that meets your needs so that you’re not stuck with a lawn that can’t handle the conditions on your property.
\n\n\n\nFor example, if your lawn doesn’t get a lot of shade, you need a grass that can handle the sun. If you live in an area without much rainfall, you need a particularly drought-tolerant grass.
\n\n\n\nYou don’t need to miss a day at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo because you’re busy working on your lawn. If you need help with landscaping in Colorado Springs, call your local lawn care professionals who can mow, trim, and edge the lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: David / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Colorado Springs","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/1789c/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/107df/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/293e9/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/f2cbb/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/1789c/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/c26c2/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/1dd6e/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/67b76/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/8df11/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/98a65/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/1dd6e/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/5132916c8b5f3d193f21c8ed23f5c1a4/3cc96/Colorado-Springs-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Colorado Springs","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Need help choosing a new grass for your Colorado Springs lawn? Here are the 6 best grass types to consider."}}},{"node":{"id":"c2d0da30-eb6c-568a-be5d-f5b2c637d1a1","slug":"spring-lawn-care-durham","path":"/lawn-care/nc/durham/spring-lawn-care-durham/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"3c4f0f7e-d959-5ea1-9a84-f914bbb6828f","name":"Durham","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/durham/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"April 6th, 2023","excerpt":"When spring arrives in Durham, you may be thinking about visiting a park or going on a hike to explore the city’s breathtaking nature. But if you want your lawn to be breathtaking as well, you need to put in the time early and know what you’re doing. We’ve got you covered. Here are 11 […]
\n","content":"\nWhen spring arrives in Durham, you may be thinking about visiting a park or going on a hike to explore the city’s breathtaking nature. But if you want your lawn to be breathtaking as well, you need to put in the time early and know what you’re doing.
\n\n\n\nWe’ve got you covered. Here are 11 tips for caring for your Durham lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Gasoline](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pouring-gasoline-in-lawn-mower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYour lawn equipment needs to function well. Hopefully, you did a little maintenance before storing it for the winter. As spring emerges, you’ll want to take it out and make sure it’s still in good working order.
\n\n\n\nEach of your pieces of lawn equipment should come with a manual that outlines the specific jobs you need to do and how often to do them.
\n\n\n\nBut to give you a rough idea of the lawn mower maintenance that will be needed, we’ve put together lists of common lawn mower maintenance tasks.
\n\n\n\nHere are typical maintenance jobs for a gas lawn mower (these may not apply to your machine; check your manual for specific instructions):
\n\n\n\n| Gas Lawn Mower Maintenance Job | Estimated Job Frequency (varies based on type) |
| Engine oil change | Either every 20 to 50 hours or once per season, whichever is first; after roughly the first 5 hours for new lawn mowers |
| Fuel change | Fuel goes bad within 30 days unless you add stabilizer |
| Sharpening and balancing | Every 20 to 25 hours of use time |
| Spark plug replacement | Once a season or every 25 hours of use time, whichever is first |
| Cleaning air fillers | At least every 10 uses, possibly more depending on your environment |
| Changing air fillers | Every month to every year, depending on your environment and usage |
| Lubricating the wheels | Once a month to twice every season, depending on usage |
Here are typical maintenance jobs for a battery lawn mower (once again, these may not apply to your machine; check your manual for specific instructions):
\n\n\n\n| Battery Lawn Mower Maintenance Job | Estimated Job Frequency (varies based on type) |
| Battery change | Between 3 and 5 years |
| Sharpen lawn mower blades and balance them | Every 20 to 25 hours of use time or twice per season, whichever is first |
| Cleaning the vents | As needed, depending on usage |
| Lubricating the wheels | Once a month to twice per season, depending on usage |
As you can see, there are a number of tasks you may need to do as part of your seasonal maintenance, and these are just for your lawn mower. On top of these, you also need to maintain your edger, your leaf blower, and your hedge trimmer, if you have them.
\n\n\n\nIt may make things easier to get a professional tune-up to make sure all your equipment is functioning properly.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-debris.jpg\")
During the winter, it’s likely that leaves, branches, and other debris have accumulated on your lawn. It’s important to clean up this debris before you mow your lawn so that you can cut it evenly and prevent damage to your mower. You can follow these steps to clean up your yard:
\n\n\n\nTip: You don’t have to discard picked-up debris, like leaves. Instead, you may be able to turn it into a nutrient-rich compost. Moreover, some of the twigs you’ve picked up could be used for DIY projects.
\n\n\n\n![\"Soil](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soil-Testing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWinter can take a toll on your soil, so when spring rolls around, your grass may need additional nutrients like phosphorus, lime, and magnesium. A test can help you find out if your soil is lacking in any essential nutrients.
\n\n\n\nAnother reason you should test your soil is to determine its pH level. Your soil’s pH level can tell you how well it can absorb nutrients. Each turf grass has different pH level needs, but most of them grow in soils with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0.
\n\n\n\nAccording to North Carolina State University, you should do a soil test every two to three years. You can test your soil by using a home testing kit or by sending a sample to a lab. If you choose the latter, North Carolina State University accepts samples between April 1 and early November each year. At other times of the year, you’ll need to submit your soil samples to Raleigh.
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to do a soil test before you fertilize your lawn so that you know which nutrients it lacks.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Brown_Patch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs spring approaches, temperature and humidity increase. That’s great for your lawn’s growth, but it also creates the perfect environment for lawn diseases to thrive.
\n\n\n\nHere are just a few of the common North Carolina lawn diseases:
\n\n\n\nThe best way to deal with lawn diseases is to prevent them. You can avoid many lawn diseases by:
\n\n\n\nYour lawn will be more susceptible to diseases if you’re dealing with any of the following:
\n\n\n\nAlways look for signs of disease and treat them right away.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spraying-Lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Praxis Eco Pest Control / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWeeds can quickly take over a lawn and compete with grass for nutrients and water. A few common weeds include:
\n\n\n\nTo prevent weeds from sprouting, you can treat and prevent them with herbicides. There are different kinds of herbicides, so make sure you pick the right ones and apply them correctly.
\n\n\n\nPre-emergent herbicides are applied before weeds emerge, which should be around March 15. It puts a chemical barrier on the surface of the soil to stop weeds from growing. It’s normally in effect for three to five months.
\n\n\n\nPost-emergent herbicides are applied later in the spring, when the weeds have already emerged.
\n\n\n\nHerbicides are further categorized as either selective or non-selective. A selective herbicide targets specific weeds, whereas a non-selective herbicide is stronger and can kill any plant. Be careful if you use a non-selective herbicide because it may kill plants that you want to keep.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, you should never use any herbicide on newly seeded areas. It should also be applied at least three or four days before mowing or at least two to three days after. After application, wait 24 hours before you irrigate.
\n\n\n\nIf you prefer the organic route, you can look into organic herbicides. Properly caring for your lawn by watering, mowing, fertilizing, aerating, and so forth can also make your lawn stronger and more weed-resistant.
\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\nYour soil may become compacted after a cold winter. To prevent your grass from suffering and even dying as a result, it’s important to aerate your lawn. This process involves creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeply into the roots of your grass.
\n\n\n\nBefore you aerate, consider your grass type. If you have a warm-season grass type, aerate it in late spring so that it can grow. The best time to aerate a cool-season grass type is in the fall. Following aeration, fertilization and seeding should come next (you can do either of them first). You can buy tools to aerate your lawn or contact a Durham professional.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Fertilizer-Spreader.jpg\")
The right amount of fertilizer depends on the type of grass you have and the condition of your soil. As mentioned above, overfertilizing can make your lawn more susceptible to diseases. While this is especially the case for centipedegrass, it’s nevertheless important to follow the recommended guidelines for fertilizing and not exceed them.
\n\n\n\nAs mentioned above, your soil test will reveal what your soil is lacking.
\n\n\n\nFertilizers mainly consist of three nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are abbreviated as N-P-K. If you buy a 24-6-6 fertilizer, it means that it’s made of 24% nitrogen, 6% phosphorus, and 6% potassium.
\n\n\n\nIdeal fertilization times depend on whether you have a warm-season or a cool-season grass type. You can learn about different Durham grass types to find out if you have a warm- or cool-season grass type. Either way, remember that you should fertilize your grass right after you aerate, if possible. You can overseed before or after you fertilize.
\n\n\n\nBut back to warm- and cool-season grasses’ fertilization needs. According to North Carolina State University, warm-season grasses don’t need fertilizer until about two weeks after they’ve started to green up. Cool-season grasses, on the other hand, should be fertilized in the fall. If you missed the recommended fertilization window, you should fertilize your cool-season grass early in the spring.
\n\n\n\nHere are the recommended fertilization times for typical Durham grass types:
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Fertilization |
| Bermudagrass | Early April to May |
| Centipedegrass | June |
| Kentucky bluegrass mix | Mid September to November |
| Tall fescue | Mid September to November |
| Zoysiagrass | June to August |
![\"Bare](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Bare-Patch-Spot.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf your lawn has bare patches, you need to overseed them to promote healthy growth. Overseeding should follow core aeration and can be done before or after fertilization. Just like other maintenance practices, the best time to overseed depends on your grass type.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a warm-season grass type, it’s best if you overseed it in late spring to early summer. Warm-season grasses’ optimal planting temperatures vary based on the type of grass. But broadly speaking, they begin to grow at temperatures between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit and do best at 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a cool-season grass type, you should overseed it in late summer to early fall. Just like warm-season grasses, cool-season grasses’ optimal planting temperatures vary based on the type of grass. But generally, they begin to grow at temperatures between 40 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit and do best at 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nIf you leave overseeding too early or too late, you risk the new grass not establishing well. Check out the best grass types for Durham if you want to know more about warm-season and cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nOnce you plant your new seed, don’t forget to fertilize it if you haven’t already. Additionally, water your new grass seed regularly to ensure that it gets enough moisture for proper growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Mowing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA healthy, lush lawn requires proper mowing. Avoid mowing your grass too short, as it can damage it and affect its growth. Cut no more than one-third of the grass blade in one mow, and don’t mow wet grass. Also, don’t mow for 2 to 3 days before or 3 to 4 days after applying herbicide.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be sure not to let your grass grow too long because it can become susceptible to diseases and pests. How much you’ll need to do depends on your grass type.
\n\n\n\nHere are the recommended mowing heights for Durham grasses:
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Mowing Height |
| Bermudagrass | 1 to 2 inches (rotary mower) or 0.75 to 1 inch (reel mower) |
| Centipedegrass | 1.5 to 2 inches, depending on conditions |
| Kentucky bluegrass mix | Depends on the mix; anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 inches |
| Tall fescue | 2 to 4 inches |
| Zoysiagrass | Typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches depending on cultivar and shade; heights below 1 inch need a reel mower (which is recommended anyway) |
Tip: Once you’ve mowed your grass, you can leave grass clippings behind as natural fertilizer. But make sure that the clippings are not too long or too thick, because this will create too much thatch.
\n\n\n\n![\"Fall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fall-Armyworm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: uacescomm / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike weeds, insects can threaten the health and appearance of your lawn. Common Durham pests include:
\n\n\n\nTo prevent pests, make sure to keep your grass healthy by providing it with enough water and fertilizer. Moreover, mow, aerate, and dethatch as needed.
\n\n\n\nIf your lawn becomes infested with pests, use selective pesticides that kill only a certain kind of insect pests. Otherwise, you risk killing beneficial insects that prey on pests. You can also consider using natural pest control methods or seeking professional help if necessary.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/24445181093_9f2de37aff_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aqua Mechanical / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYour lawn needs sufficient watering, but overwatering can damage it and lead to diseases and pests.
\n\n\n\nThe amount of water your lawn needs depends on its type and weather conditions. Generally speaking, though, most grass types need around 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. You should water your lawn to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.
\n\n\n\nHere are a few tips for watering your lawn:
\n\n\n\nPartly, the lawn care you have to do will depend on the type of grass you have in your lawn. For the best care throughout the year, it’s important to know what kind of grass you have and what it needs.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add plants to your lawn, you can consider native plants. Natives need less care than non-natives and are beneficial to local ecosystems. Once again, make sure you choose plants that suit your specific needs and preferences.
\n\n\n\nSpring lawn care is just the beginning. If you’d rather enjoy the beauty of your lawn without the hassle of maintenance, you can also consider hiring a professional lawn care service to take care of it for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Greystone Mansion / Warren LeMay / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"11 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Durham Homeowners","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/1789c/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/107df/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 320w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/293e9/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 500w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/f2cbb/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 800w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/1789c/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 960w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/c26c2/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/1dd6e/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/67b76/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 320w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/8df11/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 500w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/98a65/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 800w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/1dd6e/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 960w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/3cc96/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Durham Homeowners","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"If you want a great lawn this year, it pays to get a good jump on it in the spring. Here’s what you should do."}}},{"node":{"id":"03dd2102-8e63-5cee-a960-06a4e9d62bd3","slug":"protecting-your-sprinkler-heads","path":"/lawn-care/protecting-your-sprinkler-heads/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Ruma Akter","id":"b4adb332-066f-5309-a11a-ada9d71b73f7","path":"/author/opushaon10/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ebb2426fcf700731e458d89422adc475?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"bf4daca3-f477-56c4-b0f9-b212905a3b28","name":"Tools, Apps & Accessories","count":6,"path":"/category/garden-accessories/"}],"date":"November 12th, 2019","excerpt":"Your sprinkler heads are easily the most vulnerable part of your sprinkler system — prone to sprinkler head damage from lawnmowers, your trimmer, freezing cold air and anything else that hits this part of the sprinkler that sits above ground. Here is what you need to know about protecting your sprinkler heads. Sprinkler donuts sound like […]
\n","content":"\nYour sprinkler heads are easily the most vulnerable part of your sprinkler system — prone to sprinkler head damage from lawnmowers, your trimmer, freezing cold air and anything else that hits this part of the sprinkler that sits above ground. Here is what you need to know about protecting your sprinkler heads.
\n\n\n\nSprinkler donuts sound like something delicious, but they are actually a lot less fun than a donut with sprinkles. Sprinkler head donuts are a quick, inexpensive solution to damage from lawnmowers. You can choose between durable concrete donuts or plastic ones — either way, they are designed to prevent broken sprinkler heads. Keep in mind the concrete donuts may cost a little more, but they are tougher than the plastic ones, and they won’t float away in a heavy rain like the plastic donuts have been known to do.
\n\n\n\nYour local landscaper may have installers who can put them in for you, but really it’s a DIY home improvement project. Your garden center or home improvement store should have the donuts, and only common garden tools are needed.
\n\n\n\nRegardless of whether you do it yourself or hire someone, the donuts will save you the headache of replacing those lawn sprinkler heads.
\n\n\n\nThe pop-up sprinkler is actually a solution to the problems caused by permanent sprinkler heads. “Mowing around permanent sprinklers in the landscape was quite a chore. Grass had to be manually trimmed near the sprinklers and occasionally one of the sprinklers was the victim of an inattentive worker on a mower. The ‘pop-up’ sprinkler was developed to alleviate this problem,” says the Clemson Cooperative Extension Home And Garden Information Center website.
\n\n\n\nThe other big threat to your pop-up sprinkler — or any watering method, like drip irrigation or even a faucet — is freezing temperatures. If water is left in the spray head when a hard freeze comes along, you could be looking at several broken sprinkler heads. The cardinal lawn care rule when frigid temperatures come along is to drain the water out of anything vulnerable.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things to do to prepare for pipe-bursting cold temperatures:
\n\n\n\nA good sprinkler system is a significant and convenient part of lawn care, but it’s also a complicated system with a lot of parts vulnerable to damage. That damage is avoidable if you take the right measures. A few sprinkler head donuts and a good draining in the fall will help keep your sprinkler heads in good working order throughout the growing season.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: “Broken,” Daniel R. Blume, CC by-SA 2.0
\n","title":"Protecting Your Sprinkler Heads","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3769363166953528,"src":"/static/617cbead0fba57c271967c4b4840773f/f2cbb/broken-sprinkler-daniel-r-blume-ccsa20.jpg","srcSet":"/static/617cbead0fba57c271967c4b4840773f/107df/broken-sprinkler-daniel-r-blume-ccsa20.jpg 320w,\n/static/617cbead0fba57c271967c4b4840773f/293e9/broken-sprinkler-daniel-r-blume-ccsa20.jpg 500w,\n/static/617cbead0fba57c271967c4b4840773f/f2cbb/broken-sprinkler-daniel-r-blume-ccsa20.jpg 800w","srcWebp":"/static/617cbead0fba57c271967c4b4840773f/98a65/broken-sprinkler-daniel-r-blume-ccsa20.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/617cbead0fba57c271967c4b4840773f/67b76/broken-sprinkler-daniel-r-blume-ccsa20.webp 320w,\n/static/617cbead0fba57c271967c4b4840773f/8df11/broken-sprinkler-daniel-r-blume-ccsa20.webp 500w,\n/static/617cbead0fba57c271967c4b4840773f/98a65/broken-sprinkler-daniel-r-blume-ccsa20.webp 800w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Protecting Your Sprinkler Heads | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"c63e4258-864d-5f5c-be02-1229ce17d1d0","slug":"best-grass-types-tampa","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/best-grass-types-tampa/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Gorski lives with her family in Texas. She has a degree in Professional Studies and a minor in marketing. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, and writing.","name":"Danielle Gorski","id":"7c21f4d6-aa31-5681-9530-3d69932d07c4","path":"/author/danielle-gorski/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d4dbd5997a7fe91daa87a0bd0839baff?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"dc593a91-bb7f-5961-b8a5-96bfdf119898","name":"Tampa","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/tampa/"}],"date":"April 28th, 2020","excerpt":"Tampa offers beachside views and aquatic wildlife for locals and tourists to enjoy. You can enjoy a stroll along Bayshore Boulevard, the United States’ longest continuous sidewalk, before enjoying Tampa’s unique cuisine. With all the bounteous emerald greenery of Tampa’s tropical vegetation, you want a lawn that is just as lush and green. Warm-season grasses […]
\n","content":"\nTampa offers beachside views and aquatic wildlife for locals and tourists to enjoy. You can enjoy a stroll along Bayshore Boulevard, the United States’ longest continuous sidewalk, before enjoying Tampa’s unique cuisine. With all the bounteous emerald greenery of Tampa’s tropical vegetation, you want a lawn that is just as lush and green.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are the best types of grass in Florida since they are able to withstand hot, muggy days and high humidity. Several types of grasses thrive in Tampa’s hot summers and mild winters.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are the best kinds of grasses for the Sunshine State. They originate from tropical regions, making them perfect for a subtropical climate like Tampa.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in temperatures ranging from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes warm-season grasses a perfect fit for the Tampa Bay area, since the climate is hot and humid year-round.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass boasts a pleasing dark green hue and an extensive root system that helps it survive drought. Bahiagrass flourishes in full sun, though it isn’t so hardy when faced up against a lot of foot traffic or cold weather. Luckily, Florida’s mild winters make it a great fit for Tampa lawns.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass is adaptable with nearly any type of soil. However, the drought-tolerant grass does not thrive in areas with salt or saltwater spray, so it’s best for more inland Tampa properties. If your yard is patchy because you have poor soil that is sandy or acidic, you might want to try switching to bahiagrass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low – needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low; mow 1-2 times a week and fertilize during peak growing season.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Resistant to diseases and insects, although dollar spot is common, and bahiagrass may attract bahiagrass billbugs, fall armyworms, or mole crickets.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Poor, sandy, or acidic
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bahiagrass needs fertilization during the peak growing season. Luckily thatch isn’t a concern with bahiagrass, so you don’t need to dethatch or aerate your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a classy choice for golf courses and commercial properties. Foot traffic doesn’t faze it, as this hardy grass type is built to withstand wear and tear. What does hurt bermudagrass is a lot of shade and cold winter temperatures.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass grows to be a vivid light green color. Hybrid bermudagrass has a fine texture, while the texture of common bermudagrass is usually coarser.
\n\n\n\nA sun-loving grass, bermudagrass is a deep-rooted grass that grows densely quickly. The thickness of the grass acts as a defense against weeds, forming a barrier that chokes them out. Bermudagrass is a high maintenance turf, but it’s durable and able to withstand rough weather conditions.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Below-ground rhizomes and above-ground stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor – needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High. Bermudagrass is a fast-growing and invasive grass. It needs to be mowed weekly to keep it from growing in garden beds and fertilized regularly.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance against diseases, although it commonly suffers from diseases such as dollar spot, leaf spot, spring dead spot, and root decline. Bermudagrass has low resistance to insects and may be invaded by pests such as white grubs, armyworms, and webworms.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermudagrass only needs reseeded once a year. It requires regular mowing during the growing season to keep it at its ideal height.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nIf you dream of an evergreen lawn that even persists through the chilly winter months, then buffalograss is the grass for you. Buffalograss is a low-maintenance lawn that keeps its blue-green hue year-round.
\n\n\n\nNative buffalograss thrives in the western and central regions of the Great Plains, but there are new turf-type cultivars that are well adapted for home lawns. Despite being named for the bison that populates North America, buffalograss doesn’t like stampeding herds of visitors, making it bad for heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nIt can tolerate Tampa’s extreme heat and bouts with drought. Avoid planting buffalograss if you have a yard shaded by big big trees. Buffalograss doesn’t require much water, so homeowners have to be careful to avoid overwatering this type of grass. Since it has a more open growth pattern, weeds are always a problem..
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases. Although buffalograss has a good tolerance against bugs, it tends to attract chinch bugs, white grubs, webworms, and mealyworms.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Between 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native soils, not sandy soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Like with most grasses, it takes effort to get buffalograss established in your yard, but once they are established, they should be low maintenance. They don’t typically need dethatching or aeration, and they don’t require much fertilizing.
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you are looking for a low-maintenance grass, centipedegrass is a good choice. Centipedegrass is durable and versatile, as it thrives in acidic and infertile soils with a low pH. It is a slow-growing grass, which means it doesn’t need to be mowed as often as other warm-season grasses. Centipedegrass is not a good grass if you have pets and kids because it doesn’t stand up to foot traffic. But it does hold up well during droughts.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it is an attractive grass, you won’t be the only one who finds centipedegrass appealing. Pests such as nematodes love centipedegrass. It’s also susceptible to fungal diseases and other pesky bugs.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Above-ground stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects; may suffer from iron chlorosis or centipedegrass decline. Nematodes and ground pearl insects are a common insect problem for centipedegrass.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Sandy and infertile soils, silt, loam
\n\n\n\nOther notes: When it is first installed in your yard, centipedegrass will be high-maintenance until it is established in the yard, then it will be low maintenance and not require much care. Centipedegrass can be sensitive to over-fertilizing.
\n\n\n\n![\"bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is the most popular grass found in Florida lawns. Tolerant of heat and shade, St. Augustinegrass is a great fit for any Tampa yard shaded by trees.
\n\n\n\nA native to coastal areas, St. Augustinegrass performs best where there’s salty sea air and high moisture and humidity. Its thick, dark green blades go dormant in the winter and turn brown before returning to their vibrant color in the spring. There are several types of St. Augustinegrass, but there are two primary types: standard and dwarf cultivars.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is used to getting a lot of water, so it will have to be watered often to keep it healthy and happy. But don’t give it too much water or fertilizer because it is susceptible to thatch. St. Augustinegrass grows in dense patches that makes it weed-resistant. And it’s not the best for families with pets or kids, since it doesn’t do well with heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Above-ground stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate; St. Augustinegrass grows quickly, so it will need frequent mowings
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; chinch bugs can be a problem with St. Augustinegrass. Nematodes, grubs, and webworms might also plague St. Augustinegrass, and it can suffer from diseases like large patch and gray leaf spot.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: St. Augustinegrass can be planted any time of year in Tampa. Prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhat makes Zoysiagrass so great for Tampa yards is its high salt tolerance. Zoysiagrass can endure some shade, but it thrives if it receives six to eight hours of sunlight a day.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a great barefoot grass because it’s so soft to walk on. It’s the perfect grass for your family and pets because it accommodates a lot of rowdy play and outdoor activities while also being soft and comfortable to walk on.
\n\n\n\nIts growth pattern makes it difficult for weeds to take root among the dense, dark green grass blades. However, the dense growth requires weekly mowing during the growing season.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes and stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; good disease and insect tolerance overall. Might encounter problems with diseases such as brown patch, gray leaf spot, or take-all root rot. Insects like white grubs, chinch bugs, sod webworms, or mole crickets might pose a threat to zoysiagrass.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-drained soils. Adaptable to almost any kind of soil, from clay to sandy soil.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Although Zoysia is usually low maintenance, it does produce thatch, which requires aeration and dethatching. Zoysiagrass is also a slow starter; new grass takes one to three months before it grows.
\n\n\n\nSeveral types of sun-loving grasses thrive in Tampa, but the best types of grasses for lawns that receive a lot of direct sunlight include St. Augustine, Celebration bermudagrass, and Zoysiagrass.
Several types of sun-loving grasses thrive in Tampa, but the best types of grasses for lawns that receive a lot of direct sunlight include St. Augustine, Celebration bermudagrass, and Zoysiagrass.
Bermudagrass consumes the least amount of water, which means it doesn’t have to be watered as frequently and it is very drought-resistant. Other types of grass that are drought tolerant and can do well with little water include bahiagrass, centipedegrass, and buffalograss.
Tampa lawns need to withstand hot, humid temperatures and thrive in coastal climates. These varieties thrive in the Tampa Bay area, so you’ll want to consider what type of grass is the right fit for your yard.
\n\n\n\nCreating your perfect yard isn’t just finding the right type of grass for your lawn. There are other ways you can enhance your Tampa yard. Check out our list of low-maintenance landscaping ideas or our list on hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas designed to help your landscaping withstand harsh hurricane weather.
\n\n\n\nDon’t wait to install new sod. Contact a Tampa lawn care pro today so that you can have the lawn of your dreams.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Free Nature Stock / Canva / License
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Tampa, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/1789c/Lawn-Grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/107df/Lawn-Grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/293e9/Lawn-Grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/f2cbb/Lawn-Grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/1789c/Lawn-Grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/c26c2/Lawn-Grass.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/1dd6e/Lawn-Grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/67b76/Lawn-Grass.webp 320w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/8df11/Lawn-Grass.webp 500w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/98a65/Lawn-Grass.webp 800w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/1dd6e/Lawn-Grass.webp 960w,\n/static/e0fc68b5973cfd4b2aa279303bd46e64/3cc96/Lawn-Grass.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Tampa, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Are you looking to get a new lawn? There are several types of warm-season grasses that are perfect for Tampa’s humid climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"5270115d-cf39-5d28-9b40-ac24a6e9ec35","slug":"6-best-grass-types-for-northern-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/northern-virginia/6-best-grass-types-for-northern-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"5dd0bcb4-bbab-5a8b-9920-c939eab0b702","name":"Northern Virginia","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/northern-virginia/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"Located close to our nation’s capital, Northern Virginia boasts distinct character and historical gems. From Old Town Alexandria to the Sky Meadows State Park, there are plenty of charming locations for locals to be proud of. But after having too many adventures, what if you feel like relaxing in your own backyard? By exploring the […]
\n","content":"\nLocated close to our nation’s capital, Northern Virginia boasts distinct character and historical gems. From Old Town Alexandria to the Sky Meadows State Park, there are plenty of charming locations for locals to be proud of. But after having too many adventures, what if you feel like relaxing in your own backyard? By exploring the best grass types for Northern Virginia, you will transform that grim-looking turf into a lush, green lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith a wide variety of grass types to choose from, it is important to distinguish between warm- and cool-season grass. Here are some of their main differences:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. They actively grow in late spring and summer, entering dormancy as temperatures drop in winter. Warm-season grasses have low frost-tolerance, enjoy high temperatures, and require less water than cool-season grasses. They include Zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They tolerate frost and lower temperatures, actively growing in spring and fall. Cool-season turfgrasses include tall fescue, creeping red fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nSituated between Chesapeake Bay and Shenandoah Valley, the Northern Virginia region lies in the transition zone. It is situated in plant hardiness zones 6b to 7b. What matters the most for turfgrasses is the fact the transition zone allows for cool- and warm-season grasses to thrive.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses tend to grow better in Northern Virginia, with a couple of warm-season varieties able to thrive in the area.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nArguably the best turfgrass for Northern Virginia, tall fescue is quite versatile and valued for its adaptability to a wide range of climates. It has greater heat tolerance than other cool-season grasses. It also has a decent shade and drought tolerance, mainly due to its extensive root system. Tall fescue grows in clumps, which may limit its ability to repair itself after damage.
\n\n\n\nThis grass seed can easily grow in Northern Virginia, providing you with a green and aesthetically pleasing lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a rhizomatous plant that is popular among homeowners and gardeners. It produces a dense sod, and forms a dark green turf with good leaf density. This is what helps make it very comfortable to walk on barefoot. This turfgrass can withstand heavy foot traffic, and has an excellent capacity for self-repair due to its aggressive growth habit.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is known for its little to no tolerance for shade, with other varieties such as fine fescue more suitable for shady lawns.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Levin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnother popular species in the area, perennial ryegrass is a key component in cool-season grass seed mixes for northern and transition zone lawns. It flourishes where summers are moderate and winters are cool. This cool-season turfgrass grows in clumps and spreads through vertical shoots rather than rhizomes.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass prefers sunny conditions, but can tolerate lightly shaded lawns. In addition to cool-season grass mixes, it can be used to overseed warm-season turfgrasses to extend the lawn’s winter green period.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a drought-resistant, cool-season turfgrass that is popular for home lawns, commercial properties, and golf courses. It has one of the finest leaf textures of all turfgrasses. Fine fescue is distinguishable by its narrow leaf blades, and comes in five subspecies including creeping red. You can plant this grass seed in different types of soil, it will thrive with no issue.
\n\n\n\nWith lower maintenance requirements than Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue is a perfect choice for homeowners with shady lawns.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as Chewings, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-4.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWith several species and cultivars available, Zoysiagrass is one of the most cold-tolerant warm-season grasses you can grow. It is suitable for the transition zone, including Northern Virginia. This grass type may establish itself slower than other varieties, but it will form a dense carpet of grass beneath your feet. It also has thick, deep roots that help it withstand periods of dryness.
\n\n\n\nFortunately, Zoysia is among those you can overseed with perennial ryegrass for a green winter color. If your family loves playing lawn games and throwing barbecues, Zoysiagrass is a great option for you.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although, it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a warm-season grass that is more sensitive to cold than Zoysia. It spreads quite rapidly by both above- and below-ground runners. It also has excellent drought, wear, and salt tolerance. Unfortunately, this grass type has a very poor shade tolerance, meaning it cannot thrive underneath tree canopies. Bermudagrass is very difficult to control within flower beds, and is susceptible to insect and disease problems.
\n\n\n\nOverall, it is well-adapted to most soils and can be used in athletic fields, tennis courts, and high-quality lawns.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: 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: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid Bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common Bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass takes the lead as the fastest growing warm-season turfgrass, allowing it to recover quickly from damage. There is a downside to this, as it can become a very invasive plant in gardens and flower beds. So unless you’re in a rush, there are better varieties such as tall fescue to choose from.
To learn more about other grass types that can thrive in different parts of the state, you can visit the Virginia Cooperative Extension website.
Invasive or non-native plants are a nuisance to any region across the United States. Northern Virginia suffers from one of these invasive species, called the Japanese stiltgrass. It has fast-growing stems that allow it to shade out other native plants or vegetation. It can invade lawns, vegetable gardens, and landscape beds.
If you would like to help clear out these invasive species from Virginia State Parks, you can visit their official website for more information.
Lemongrass is a citrusy plant that is used to flavor Asian cooking such as curries. It can also be infused into essential oils. You can grow this Asian herb in northern parts of Virginia, and they are available to purchase at local international markets.
The best grass types for Central Virginia include:
• Tall fescue
• Perennial ryegrass
• Kentucky bluegrass
• Fine fescue
• Zoysiagrass
• Bermudagrass
Some homeowners wish to limit lawn maintenance and backyard chores, while other families tend to enjoy plenty of lawn games and outdoor activities. Depending on your personal preferences and lifestyle, be sure to pick the right type of grass seed mix that will meet your needs.
\n\n\n\nThere are other ways to spruce up your backyard and create the ultimate outdoor space. Consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your Virginia lawn, including native wildflowers and xeriscaping features.
\n\n\n\nLooking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Falls Church, Arlington, Alexandria, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Alexandria, Virginia / Farragutful / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Northern Virginia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/1789c/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/107df/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/293e9/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/f2cbb/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/1789c/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/c26c2/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/1dd6e/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/67b76/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 320w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/8df11/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 500w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/98a65/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 800w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/1dd6e/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 960w,\n/static/81420d1abdb0f373ca6685a0c093aead/3cc96/Rosemont_Historic_District_Alexandria_Virginia_04-1-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Northern Virginia | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"To avoid confusion with the transition zone, explore the best grass types for Northern Virginia for a healthy, green lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"691a6190-e0bc-5c68-9ac8-c1bfc6125b54","slug":"best-native-plants-charleston","path":"/lawn-care/sc/charleston/best-native-plants-charleston/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a8c83048-dc3b-5f6e-b021-c92b6000eb0c","name":"Charleston","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/charleston/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"1ea697f8-5b42-5431-b368-7296faebead2","name":"South Carolina","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/"}],"date":"May 8th, 2023","excerpt":"A city steeped in history and tradition, Charleston is also a city that’s evolving. One way in which it’s changing is in the way homeowners approach gardening and landscaping. Increasingly, people are now recognizing the value of native plants. Not only do they add to the beauty and biodiversity of the area, but they also […]
\n","content":"\nA city steeped in history and tradition, Charleston is also a city that’s evolving. One way in which it’s changing is in the way homeowners approach gardening and landscaping. Increasingly, people are now recognizing the value of native plants. Not only do they add to the beauty and biodiversity of the area, but they also have many practical advantages over non-native species:
\n\n\n\nFrom showy flowers to stately trees, discover the best native plants for Charleston that will help you create a beautiful and sustainable garden that will thrive in our unique climate and soil.
\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\nNative to the southeastern United States, this deciduous shrub is a treasured addition to any Charleston garden. From August to November, bright purple berries cluster along its stems, making the American beautyberry a stunning focal point in any landscape design. In the fall, its green, toothed leaves turn yellow, creating a beautiful contrast with the berries.
\n\n\n\nIt’s an excellent understory shrub that you can plant under large trees. And while this slow-growing plant takes several years to reach its full size, it can thrive for many years once established. Plus, it’s relatively easy to grow and requires minimal care. The berries are a favorite among local bird species, making American beautyberry a fantastic choice for birdwatchers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6b-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall, 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun and partial shade – needs at least four hours of exposure to direct sunlight per day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows best in rich, organic loam soil but can tolerate a range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – around 1 inch per week (during dry periods, it may need slow, deep watering)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but its berries can cause vomiting and other unpleasant symptoms if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/American-Fringe-Tree-Chionanthus-virginicus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Cephas / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as the sweetheart tree, the American fringe tree adds a touch of elegance to any landscape. This deciduous tree blooms from late spring to early summer with delicate, showy white flowers. Its bark is smooth and gray, while its leaves are shiny, dark green, and up to 8 inches long.
\n\n\n\nYou can spot fringe trees in various locations throughout Charleston, including parks, gardens, and natural areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate drier conditions once established. The tree is also relatively low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 12-20 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade or full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, loose, sandy, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – it’s a bit drought-tolerant
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: While this tree is generally considered safe, note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Black-Eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nA stunning wildflower native to the eastern United States, black-eyed Susan is a great choice for anyone looking to add vibrant color to their garden. It blooms from early summer through fall, showing bright yellow petals with a dark center disk. It’s also perfect for Charleston’s hot summers, as it can tolerate drought well.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is a relatively low-maintenance and deer-resistant plant, which is a big plus for gardeners dealing with wildlife. It attracts beneficial insects that can help control garden pests, such as ladybugs and lacewings.
\n\n\n\nAs it can grow wild in open fields and meadows, black-eyed Susan can be used for mass plantings – its stunning display of yellow flowers can brighten up any landscape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Biennial, annual, or short-lived perennial (depending on growing conditions)
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun – but it blooms best with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, acidic, sandy, loamy, fertile soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: While it’s not toxic to humans and pets, it can cause asthma attacks and allergic skin reactions.
\n\n\n\n![\"Many](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Blazing-Star-Liatris-spicata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Drew Avery / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBlazing star is a striking perennial wildflower that adds a burst of color to any garden. This tall, slender plant blooms from mid-summer to early fall and features spikes of purple flowers, making it a popular choice for late-season gardens.
\n\n\n\nNative to the eastern United States, blazing star is drought-tolerant and can survive hot, dry summers. They’re planted in many public gardens and natural areas throughout the city. And if you want to add height and vertical interest to your landscape, this perennial wildflower is perfect.
\n\n\n\nOne of the best things homeowners love about the blazing star is its ability to attract pollinators, such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Its bright flowers provide a rich source of nectar, making it an essential plant for supporting local wildlife. In fact, it’s the preferred nectar source of both silver-spotted skipper and monarch butterflies.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun – it grows well in areas that get 6 or more hours of sun exposure a day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but it’s not recommended to ingest its leaves and flowers
\n\n\n\n![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Weed-Asclepias-tuberosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAs its name indicates, butterfly weed is a magnet for butterflies and other pollinators, making it an essential addition to any pollinator garden. This herbaceous perennial is part of the milkweed family and boasts striking clusters of bright orange flowers that bloom from June to August.
\n\n\n\nThe flower clusters at the tips of this plant’s upright stems are long-lasting and add color to any garden border or flower bed. Its narrow leaves and stems are bright green, adding to its visual appeal.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed prefers well-draining soil and full sun, making it a perfect fit for the climate in Charleston. It’s also relatively drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance. Note, though, that it’s toxic if ingested, so it’s not a good choice for gardens with pets or small children.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All parts of this plant are toxic and can even be fatal if consumed in large amounts
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carolina-Jessamine-Gelsemium-sempervirens.jpg\")
Photo Credit: KENPEI / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as Carolina yellow jasmine, this evergreen vine is perfect for Charleston’s hot and humid climate. And who wouldn’t want South Carolina’s state flower planted in their garden? The plant is a fast grower and can reach heights of up to 20 feet, making it an excellent choice for trellises, fences, or even as a ground cover.
\n\n\n\nOne of the best things about Carolina Jessamine is its low maintenance requirements. This vine is adaptable to a wide range of soil types and thrives in full sun or partial shade. Bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers bloom from late winter to early spring. Additionally, Carolina Jessamine is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden.
\n\n\n\nHowever, all parts of the plant – especially the seeds and roots – are toxic if ingested. So you might want to go with other plants if you have pets and small children.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-20 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade – it can grow even with just 2-6 hours of direct sunlight a day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, loamy soil with high organic matter
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All its parts are toxic if ingested, and its sap can cause allergic skin reactions in some people
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dwarf-Azalea-Rhododendron-atlanticum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSometimes called coastal azalea, the dwarf azalea is a compact and low-growing shrub that can add a splash of color to any garden. From April to May, it blooms stunning flowers in shades of pink, white, and red.
\n\n\n\nIn Charleston, you’ll find dwarf azaleas planted in gardens, parks, and along sidewalks. The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a popular spot to see these plants, as they feature over 20 acres of stunning gardens that include a wide range of azaleas.
\n\n\n\nIf you are growing dwarf azaleas in your own garden, note that they prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. They also require regular watering, particularly during dry spells.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flowering shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a-8b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, acidic, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All parts of this plant are highly poisonous and can cause progressive paralysis, coma, and cardiac failure.
\n\n\n\n![\"yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Ear-Leaved-Tickseed-Coreopsis-auriculata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nEasily recognizable by its sunny yellow blooms with black centers, the ear-leaved tickseed is a popular native wildflower well-suited to the Charleston area. This plant is part of the daisy family, and it’s known for its vibrant blooms that can be seen from late spring to early fall.
\n\n\n\nThe natural habitat of this flowering plant includes meadows, prairies, and savannas. It’s also commonly planted in gardens and along roadsides. With its delicate foliage and bright flowers, it’s no surprise that the ear-leaved tickseed is a favorite among gardeners and landscapers alike.
\n\n\n\nTo make the most of this beautiful plant, consider planting it in large masses or drifts. The ear-leaved tickseed looks best when planted in groups, which can create a stunning visual impact. You can add it to a wildflower meadow or a naturalized area of your garden. It’s an excellent plant for providing nectar for pollinators, while its seed is food for songbirds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, Eastern redbuds can be found in the understory of forests or along the edges of woodlands. Its heart-shaped leaves and distinctive bark add visual appeal, and in the fall, the leaves turn a bright yellow before falling off.
\n\n\n\nIf you visit White Point Garden and Hampton Park, it’s impossible not to stop and adore the beauty of the Eastern redbuds planted there, as this perennial tree is a showstopper in any garden. Its vibrant pink flowers bloom in early spring, adding a pop of color to landscapes.
\n\n\n\nAs an early bloomer, the Eastern redbud is a vital source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its showy flowers attract pollinators, making it a great addition to any garden aimed at supporting local wildlife. Homeowners looking to maximize the tree’s aesthetic impact can underplant with low-growing perennials such as creeping phlox or Virginia bluebells.
\n\n\n\nPruning can help maintain this deciduous tree’s naturally attractive shape and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Also, monitor for pests and diseases, such as canker or Verticillium wilt, which can weaken or kill the tree if left unchecked.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-30 feet tall and 25-35 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, nutrient-rich soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – Maintain the moisture level of the soil at a depth of 2-3 inches. Water at least once every week, depending on your soil type.
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Its saponin can be toxic to fish but is generally safe for humans or pets unless consumed in large amounts.
\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\nPrized for its glossy, leathery leaves and striking star-shaped flowers, Florida anise is an evergreen shrub native to the southeastern United States. Blooming in early spring, the plant’s beautiful, dark red flowers attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Its sweet fragrance, reminiscent of licorice, is a favorite among hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nThis native shrub is commonly found in parks and gardens throughout Charleston, including Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, where it is a staple of the beautiful Camellia Collection. They naturally grow in wetlands and along stream banks, where they can grow up to 15 feet tall. In the garden, however, Florida anise can be pruned to a more manageable size and shaped into an attractive hedge.
\n\n\n\nTo make the most of this deer-resistant shrub, you can incorporate it into your garden bed, using it as a focal point or an accent plant. You can plant it alongside other native species, such as the American beautyberry, to create a colorful and diverse garden.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall, 6-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, rich, loamy, clay, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – it’s drought-tolerant, but you may need to water it weekly during extended dry periods
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – remember that it’s not the same as the star anise spice, and it’s poisonous if ingested by humans and pets.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Florida-Leucothoe-Agarista-populifolia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: El Funcionario / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThis native evergreen shrub is well-suited for the warm and humid climate of the region. Commonly found in wooded areas and swamps, Florida Leucothoe is a perfect addition to natural or woodland gardens. It prefers well-draining soil and partial to full shade but can tolerate some sun exposure with proper care.
\n\n\n\nIts glossy leaves have a striking bronze-green color when young and turn deep green as they mature, creating a beautiful contrast with its clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring. These flowers have a delicate fragrance and are usually white but can appear in shades of pink or red.
\n\n\n\nFlorida Leucothoe is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides habitat and food for various wildlife, such as butterflies and bees. To make it more beautiful in the garden, you can prune it regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. You can plant it alongside other shade-loving plants, such as azaleas, ferns, and hostas, to create a stunning and harmonious display.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8-12 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade – can grow well even with less than 2 hours to no sun exposure
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, fertile, acidic, loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – remember not to overwater
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly Toxic – can be fatal to humans and animals if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Goldenrod-Solidago-species-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nA vibrant perennial native to the southeastern United States, goldenrod is known for its golden-yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. You can find it growing wild in fields, meadows, and along roadsides.
\n\n\n\nGoldenrod is an essential food source for bees and butterflies. Its nectar-rich flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators, providing a vital food source for them as they prepare for the winter months. It’s also a host plant for many species of caterpillars, making it an important part of the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nThis hardy plant can tolerate dry conditions, making it a great choice for areas with hot summers, like Charleston. When planting it in your garden, give goldenrod plenty of space to grow. You can plant it in groups for a bold display of color.
\n\n\n\nMix it with other late-blooming perennials, such as asters and Joe-Pye weed, for a stunning fall garden display. Regular deadheading can help keep the plant looking tidy and encourage more blooms.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2a-8b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, acidic, fertile, clay, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but should not be ingested by pregnant or breastfeeding women as well as people with medical conditions
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Inkberry-Holly-Ilex-coriacea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nA versatile shrub that can add year-round interest to any garden, inkberry holly is popular among homeowners for its evergreen foliage and easy-to-grow nature. It can spread up to 8 feet wide, making it a great choice for hedges or privacy screens.
\n\n\n\nThe shrub produces small, insignificant flowers in early summer, but it’s the glossy, dark green leaves that are the real star of the show. In the fall, the foliage may turn a purplish hue before becoming dark green again in the winter. The fruits of the inkberry holly are black and provide a food source for birds in the winter.
\n\n\n\nTo make it even more attractive in your garden, consider planting inkberry holly in groups or using it as a backdrop for other flowering plants. Pruning can be done in early spring to encourage dense growth and maintain a tidy shape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, sandy, loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Its berries can be toxic to both humans and pets, while the spines in its leaves can be harmful when touched.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Japanese-Camellia-Camellia-japonica.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PumpkinSky / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe Japanese camellia is a popular ornamental shrub due to its attractive evergreen foliage and beautiful flowers. This flowering plant is native to Japan, where it has been cultivated for centuries, but it is now widely grown in temperate regions around the world.
\n\n\n\nIn Charleston, Japanese camellias can be found in various parks and gardens, including the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, the Middleton Place Gardens, and the Charleston Parks Conservancy.
\n\n\n\nJapanese camellia blooms in late winter or early spring, providing a welcome splash of color to the garden during the dreary winter months. Its showy flowers can be red, pink, white, or a combination of these colors, and they are often very large, up to 5 inches in diameter. The blooms are fragrant, which makes them even more attractive to pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-13 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade or dappled sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, fertile, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – it’s relatively drought-tolerant but may require frequent watering during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Oakleaf-Hydrangea-Hydrangea-quercifolia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: normanack / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, oakleaf hydrangea is known for its large, oak-like leaves and beautiful, cone-shaped flowers. This versatile plant blooms in the late spring to early summer, producing large, showy clusters of white, pink, or red flowers that can be up to 12 inches long.
\n\n\n\nIts large leaves, which resemble oak leaves, turn a beautiful reddish-purple color in the fall, adding to the plant’s beauty and appeal. In terms of maintenance, the oakleaf hydrangea is relatively easy to care for. It requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods, and benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.
\n\n\n\nTake advantage of the oakleaf hydrangea’s unique beauty by incorporating it into your landscape design. This shrub can be used as a focal point in your garden or as a backdrop for other plants. You can use it to create a beautiful, natural-looking hedge or screen. Try planting ferns, hostas, and astilbes to complement the oakleaf hydrangea’s foliage and flowers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Fertile, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic, all its parts are poisonous if ingested by humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red-Maple-Acer-rubrum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nKnown for its striking fall foliage and adaptability to various growing conditions, red maple can be found throughout the Charleston area, particularly in residential areas and along streets and parks. The tree is native to the eastern United States and thrives in moist soils with good drainage, making it a common sight in wetland habitats like swamps and riverbanks.
\n\n\n\nA spring bloomer, red maple produces small red or yellow flowers in early March before the leaves appear. The flowers provide an important source of early nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies. In the fall, the leaves of red maple turn vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red, making it a showstopper in the landscape.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to its aesthetic value, red maple provides important wildlife habitat. The tree’s seeds are a major food source for squirrels, birds, and other animals, and its dense branching structure provides nesting sites and shelter for wildlife.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-60 feet tall and 25-45 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: Moist to dry, slightly acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic, especially the wilted and dried leaves
\n\n\n\n![\"three](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Sabal-Palmetto-Sabal-jamesiana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as cabbage palm, Sabal palmetto is one of the most iconic trees in Charleston. It is the state tree of South Carolina and can be seen in many public and private landscapes throughout the city. Native to the southeastern United States, this evergreen tree thrives in hot and humid conditions.
\n\n\n\nThe Sabal palmetto is known for its strong, slender trunk and crown of fan-shaped leaves. In the spring, it produces small yellow flowers, followed by small black fruits in the summer. It serves an important ecological function, as the tree provides habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds and insects. In addition, the tree is a resilient species that can withstand strong winds and storms, making it ideal for coastal areas prone to hurricanes.
\n\n\n\nYou can incorporate the Sabal palmetto into your landscape design by planting it in a sunny location with well-draining soil. It is a low-maintenance tree that requires little watering or pruning once established. Planting this palm in groups can create a striking visual effect and provide a sense of tropical tranquility to any outdoor space.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-11b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-30 feet tall, but can grow up to 90 feet in the woods
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – young transplants will need frequent watering for the first 6 months until established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to both humans and animals – can be fatal or cause paralysis
\n\n\n\n![\"Brown](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Sea-Oats-Uniola-paniculata.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Daniel di Palma / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nA native grass that thrives in coastal regions and sandy soils, sea oats are a perfect fit for beach houses. They grow abundantly on Charleston beaches, including Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island.
\n\n\n\nUnlike warm-season grasses, this grass species is well-known for its tall, slender stems reaching 6 feet tall and producing long, delicate seed heads that sway gracefully in the ocean breeze. Typically blooming in late summer or early fall, this salt-tolerant grass produces seeds that can be collected and used for replanting or conservation efforts.
\n\n\n\nSea oats play a vital role in stabilizing sand dunes, preventing erosion, and protecting the coastline from the destructive effects of hurricanes and other storms. They also provide essential habitats for wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7a-11b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and edible, although people with allergies and certain sensitivities should not ingest it
\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\nThe Southern Lady fern is a lush, green fern that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. It got its name from its delicate fronds, which feature finely dissected leaflets that resemble lace. As a native of the southeastern United States, it’s often found growing in wooded areas and along streams. The fronds emerge in spring and can persist well into fall, providing a long season of interest.
\n\n\n\nWhile this fern may not attract many pollinators or wildlife, it does provide a soft, lush texture that can complement other plants in the garden. You can use Southern Lady ferns to create a lush border around a garden bed or as a filler plant in shady areas. They also can be used in container gardens or as a decorative groundcover.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Fern
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full shade to part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, fertile, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate to high – can tolerate occasional flooding
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic, can be fatal if consumed in large amounts
\n\n\n\n![\"Wide](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Southern-Live-Oak-Quercus-virginiana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, this majestic tree symbolizes the region’s natural beauty. The Southern live oak is a hardy tree with a broad, spreading canopy that provides ample shade on hot summer days.
\n\n\n\nYou can find these evergreen oak trees lining historic streets and providing shade for homes and parks. It’s also a ubiquitous sight in the city’s famed Battery district, where its majestic branches offer a picturesque backdrop for stately antebellum homes.
\n\n\n\nA keystone species, the Southern live oak provides food and shelter for numerous wildlife, including squirrels, birds, and insects. It’s an important tree for pollinators, as its small, inconspicuous flowers provide nectar for bees and other insects. The tree typically blooms in the spring, with greenish-yellow flowers that give way to small, acorn-like fruits in the fall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-80 feet tall and 30-100 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – From June to September, water it once a week and once a month from November and February. For the other months, gradually increase or decrease the time between each watering session.
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – although safe to touch, the leaves and acorns can be harmful if ingested by humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Southern-Magnolia-Magnolia-grandiflora1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Evans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nAn iconic tree in the American South, the Southern magnolia is a tall evergreen tree with glossy green leaves and large, fragrant white flowers that bloom in the summer. It’s often planted as an ornamental shade tree, but it naturally grows in coastal areas with hot and humid summers. You can use its branches for wreaths and other decorative purposes.
\n\n\n\nThe Southern magnolia’s large flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Its leaves are a food source for various species of caterpillars, which in turn become food for birds and other wildlife. Additionally, the tree’s thick foliage provides cover and nesting sites for birds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 60-80 feet tall and 30-50 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, fertile soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – may need supplemental watering during extended dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Southern-Wax-Myrtle-Myrica-cerifera.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: BotBln / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nSouthern wax myrtle is a versatile and hardy shrub that is well-suited to Charleston’s coastal environment. This native plant grows in a wide range of habitats, from wetlands to uplands, and is known for its fragrant leaves, which release a spicy aroma when crushed. It’s a popular choice for coastal landscaping because it is highly tolerant of salt spray, drought, and other environmental stressors that can be common in this region.
\n\n\n\nIn late winter and early spring, Southern wax myrtle produces small, inconspicuous flowers that serve as a valuable nectar and pollen source for bees and other pollinators. Later in the season, the plant produces waxy blue berries that are an essential food source for various wildlife, including birds and small mammals. These berries also can be used as candle wax.
\n\n\n\nSouthern wax myrtle can be grown as a hedge or screening plant to provide privacy and visual interest in the landscape. Plus, it can be propagated easily from cuttings.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree or shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-25 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun, but can tolerate full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Can grow well in most soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – needs watering every two weeks but can tolerate floods and drought once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Virginia-Creeper-Parthenocissus-quinquefolia.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Linnaeus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nA popular climbing vine native to eastern North America, Virginia creeper is a great choice for homeowners who want a fast-growing plant that can cover walls, fences, and arbors. The vine’s dark green, five-leaflet leaves turn a beautiful red color in autumn, making it a striking addition to any garden.
\n\n\n\nVirginia creeper is typically found in woodland areas, along streams, and on rocky slopes. It blooms in early summer, producing small green flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. In the fall, the vine produces small blue-black berries that attract birds.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant it near a trellis or other support structure, allowing it to climb and form a dense wall of foliage. It can be trained to grow along the ground, creating a beautiful groundcover. Note that Virginia creeper can become invasive if not managed properly. So, you should keep an eye on its growth and remove any shoots that start to spread too aggressively.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine, groundcover
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 30-50 feet tall and 5-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Its berries are toxic to both humans and pets, while its sap can cause rashes on most people
\n\n\n\n![\"Long](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Virginia-Sweetspire-Itea-virginica.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Derek Ramsey / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, Virginia sweetspire grows wild in moist woodlands along streams and rivers. But you can find it planted throughout Charleston, including the Audubon Swamp Garden and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial shrub blooms in late spring to early summer, producing fragrant white or pale pink flowers that attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The plant’s foliage turns a brilliant red in the fall, adding color to the landscape.
\n\n\n\nThe low-maintenance Virginia sweetspire requires little pruning and is moderately resistant to deer damage, pests, and diseases. To make it even more beautiful in the garden, you can plant it in groups to create a mass of flowers and color. It also makes an excellent hedge or border plant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-8 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous to semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, rich soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – needs only 1 inch of water per week once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Wild-Indigo-Baptisia-spp..jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joost J. / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nA stunning flowering plant, wild indigo can be found growing wild in woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. Its showy flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and come in shades of blue, white, and yellow.
\n\n\n\nThe plant is a favorite of many pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and its flowers can be a valuable source of nectar for these insects. Wild indigo also has a symbiotic relationship with certain types of bacteria that live on its roots and help fix nitrogen in the soil.
\n\n\n\nTo encourage healthy growth, fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and prune it in the fall to prevent overcrowding.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows well in most soil types but prefers well-drained, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – it needs watering more than once a week during summer
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – it can be poisonous to humans and animals if consumed in large amounts and may cause eye irritation and dermatitis
\n\n\n\nA city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and abundant natural beauty, Charleston has a mild climate and diverse landscapes. When choosing native plants for your landscaping, consider the specific conditions of your yard. For example, sea oats are best planted along the coast to help prevent erosion, while the Southern live oak can provide shade and beauty to many historic neighborhoods.
\n\n\n\nThe city’s soil composition varies widely, from sandy coastal soils to heavier clay soils, and some plants may not do well in certain soil types. Similarly, the amount of sunlight your yard receives can impact which plants will thrive, as some native plants require full sun exposure, while others prefer partial shade.
\n\n\n\nCharleston falls primarily into USDA hardiness zone 8b and 9a, with an average annual minimum temperature range of 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, microclimates can vary throughout the city, so it’s crucial to research the specific conditions of your yard and select plants accordingly.
\n\n\n\nCharleston’s subtropical climate and mild winters make it an excellent place for planting native shrubs and wildflowers year-round. However, the best time to plant these species depends on the specific plants you choose and the local weather conditions.
In general, the ideal time to plant most native shrubs and wildflowers in Charleston is during fall and spring. Planting during this time allows the roots to establish themselves before the hot and dry summer months, reducing the risk of drought stress and increasing the chances of successful growth.
Monitor the weather forecast and soil moisture levels when planning your planting schedule. If the weather is too dry, it’s best to hold off on planting until there is enough moisture in the soil. Similarly, avoid planting during periods of heavy rainfall, as this can cause root rot and other problems.
Native plants are species that have evolved in a specific region and have already adapted to the unique soil, water, and climate conditions. These plants are crucial to the local ecosystem and provide numerous benefits to the environment and the community.
Support the ecosystem: Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides than non-native species, making them a more sustainable choice for your yard. This means less maintenance and lower costs in the long run, as well as reducing the potential for harm to local waterways and ecosystems.
Support biodiversity: Since native plants are a critical food source for local wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and other pollinators, planting native species in your yard can help create a habitat that supports essential wildlife and preserves biodiversity.
Reduce chemical use: Native species are more resilient to the region’s climate and environmental conditions. They have developed natural defenses against local pests and diseases, making them less susceptible to damage and reducing the need for chemical interventions.
Preserve heritage: Planting native plants can help preserve Charleston’s unique sense of place and cultural heritage. By selecting species that are indigenous to the region, you can create a landscape that reflects the local environment and celebrates the area’s history and identity.
While it’s essential to follow your plants’ water requirements, remember that native plants typically require less water than non-native species once established.
• Avoid watering your native plants too often since overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. It’s best to water them deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth, helping the plants better tolerate dry periods.
• Aim to water your plants to a depth of about 6-8 inches. If you’re not sure how much water your plants are receiving, you can dig a small hole near the base of the plant to check the soil moisture level.
• Water native plants in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler to ensure the water reaches the roots rather than evaporating before it can be absorbed.
• Consider using a drip irrigation system or soaker hose to water your native plants. These methods deliver water directly to the soil, lessening the chances of water being lost to evaporation and runoff.
Charleston is home to a diverse and wide array of native plant species, from coastal shrubs to woodland wildflowers. Luckily, there are several local nurseries and plant resources to help you find the perfect native plants for your yard.
\n\n\n\nYou can start your search with the South Carolina Native Plant Society. Their website offers a wealth of information on native plants and an extensive database of species well-suited to Charleston’s climate and soil conditions. They have a list of recommended nurseries and plant suppliers in the area, including:
\n\n\n\nBefore adding indigenous flora to your garden, remember to factor in the unique ecological circumstances of your yard, including your turf variety, soil quality, water drainage, and amount of sunlight. Also, avoid transplanting native plants from the wild, as it can harm local ecosystems and disrupt natural habitats.
\n\n\n\nAlthough native plants don’t require much maintenance once established, getting your lawn ready and planting new flora may require some effort. Plus, with Charleston’s humidity, you can quickly turn into a sweaty mess.
\n\n\n\nSo if you’d rather spend time at Sullivan’s Island Beach instead of working on your garden, reach out to a Charleston landscaping pro today.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Pixabay
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\n","content":"\nPicking out a new grass type is never easy. Whether it’s because the old grass died or you just want a change of pace, it can be difficult to know what type of grass will grow best in your area when you need a new one. This article discusses the best grass types for Idaho to help you pick out your new lawn in the Gem State.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nIdaho is in the cool-season zone when it comes to grass types. This means that the best grasses for this area are cool-season grasses as opposed to warm-season.
\n\n\n\nThe main difference between warm-season and cool-season grasses is that cool-season grasses grow best between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, while warm-season grasses grow best between 75 and 90 degrees.
\n\n\n\nAnother difference between warm and cool-season grasses lies in their growing seasons. Cool-season grasses experience most of their growth in early spring and autumn, whereas warm-season grass grows the most in summer.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a new grass type, Kentucky bluegrass is a good choice. Despite its name, it has a lovely dark green color, which, combined with its fine texture, makes it a beautiful grass that looks good in just about any lawn.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass has decent tolerance for drought and foot traffic tolerance, but low tolerance for shade, so it’s a good choice if you have a sunny yard and plan to use your outdoor space semi-regularly. Keep in mind that it’s a high maintenance grass, so you’ll need to give it lots of attention.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads By: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Moderate mowing and high fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate to high; prone to dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut
\n\n\n\nPotential for Pests: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6 to 7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Moist but well-drained, fertile soil
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Kentucky bluegrass is the most commonly used lawn grass in the United States
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial Ryegrass is a bunch-type cool-season grass with a light green color and a fine texture that makes it pleasant to walk on. It can be grown by itself, but it’s also commonly used in mixtures with other grass seeds, such as Kentucky bluegrass, due to perennial ryegrass’ quick germination and turf formation. It’s also good for overseeding existing lawns for the same reason.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass has the highest foot traffic tolerance of any cool-season grass, making it a great choice for homeowners who like to have a lot of outdoor activities, such as barbecues or games of catch. Its shade and drought tolerance are unfortunately low, however, so keep an eye on this grass and make sure it’s getting plenty of sun and water.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads By: Bunch-type
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: High. Common diseases include leaf spot, gray leaf spot, and red thread
\n\n\n\nPotential for Pests: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5 to 8, prefers 6 to 7
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Prefers good drainage and fertility
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Best foot traffic tolerance of any cool-season grass
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall Fescue grass is a hardy cool-season grass with a medium to dark green color and a coarse texture. It grows very quickly, meaning that it requires frequent mowing, but it unfortunately can’t repair damage easily. It has good tolerances across the board, especially drought tolerance, and has a deep root system, making it ideal for homeowners who need a tough grass that can handle conditions others can’t.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads By: Bunch-type with short rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Frequent mowing
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2 inches, mow once grass reaches 3 inches tall
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Low when properly maintained
\n\n\n\nPotential for Pests: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5 to 6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Prefers clay soil with good drainage
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Tall fescue has the highest heat tolerance among cool-season grasses
\n\n\n\n![\"Man's](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red-Fescue-a-species-of-fine-fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Red Fescue (a type of fine fescue) Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine fescue grass is a cool-season grass with a nice gray-green color and a fine texture. Its tolerances vary among cultivars, and it’s a low-maintenance grass with good disease and pest resistance. It grows slowly and, like tall fescue, doesn’t self-repair, so be careful with it.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a good middle-of-the-road grass for someone who likes options. Whatever the conditions in your outdoor space, fine fescue’s varied tolerances among its cultivars means that there’s likely one for you. It’s particularly known for its shade tolerance, boasting the best out of all cool-season grasses, making it a good choice for a shady lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads By: Depends on the cultivar; some spread by rhizomes while others are bunch-type
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on cultivar
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on cultivar
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Low to moderate, depending on cultivar
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low fertilization and mowing needs
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5 to 4 inches, depending on cultivar
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential for Pests: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6 to 6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Prefers dry soil
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Fine fescue has one of the finest textures out of all turf-type grasses
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUnlike most others on this list, buffalograss is a warm-season grass. Its resistance to cold means that it can survive Idaho’s winters, but it will unfortunately go dormant for 7 months out of the year in Idaho’s climate.
\n\n\n\nSome major advantages it has, however, are its high drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements. It’s a nice hands-off grass if you can’t spend as much time on your lawn as you’d like.
\n\n\n\nIt has a nice gray-green coloration and a fine texture, and grows very quickly in the right conditions. Buffalograss has low shade and foot traffic tolerance, so make sure it gets plenty of sun and you don’t wear it out with too many outdoor activities.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads By: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low fertilization and mowing needs, but requires weed control
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential for Pests: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5 to 7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Prefers clay soil, does not tolerate sandy soil
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Buffalograss gets its name from the fact that it was a common food source for the Buffalo that once roamed the Great Plains.
\n\n\n\nIdaho’s Panhandle gets a fairly average amount of rainfall, so it has more flexibility in terms of drought tolerance than areas like Idaho Falls. It also gets a fair amount of sun, so you should have no trouble keeping a grass with low shade tolerance. Kentucky Bluegrass or perennial ryegrass are both good candidates for Northern Idaho and the surrounding area.
Boise is located roughly in Central Idaho. It tends to have hot, dry summers and cool, shady winters, so you’ll need a grass type that can handle both. With this in mind, Kentucky bluegrass is a bit too intolerant of shade to truly thrive. Tall and fine fescue can both handle the conditions Idaho’s capital has to offer with ease, so they’re the winners for Boise.
Idaho Falls is located in Southeast Idaho. It has an average annual rainfall of 16.9 inches and enjoys plenty of sunshine, though not enough to be considered arid or semi-arid. Grasses for this area need to be sun-lovers that can handle the light precipitation.
Buffalograss has very high drought tolerance and, as a warm-season grass, thrives with plenty of sun. If you don’t mind it going dormant, it’s a very good grass type for the Idaho Falls area.
When picking out a specific grass type for your Idaho lawn, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The conditions in your yard are extremely important, as they will determine what kinds of grass you can have and how well they will do. For example, if your lawn gets a lot of sunlight, you should pick one that grows best in full sun.
\n\n\n\nYou also need to consider the amount of work you’re willing to put into your lawn on a regular basis. If you’re trying to create a low-maintenance landscape that you don’t have to put a lot of effort into, consider a grass type that needs less maintenance than most.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re having trouble picking out a new grass type for your lawn, or if you just need general lawn care and landscaping services, contact an Idaho lawn care pro near you. We have trusted lawn care pros in many cities across the state, including Boise, that can handle the lawn’s mowing, trimming, and edging.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: F. F. Beale House / Tamanoeconomico / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Idaho","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/1789c/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/107df/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.jpg 320w,\n/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/293e9/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.jpg 500w,\n/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/f2cbb/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.jpg 800w,\n/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/1789c/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.jpg 960w,\n/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/c26c2/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/1dd6e/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/67b76/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.webp 320w,\n/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/8df11/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.webp 500w,\n/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/98a65/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.webp 800w,\n/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/1dd6e/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.webp 960w,\n/static/9bc46772d15f940de87ceb15376984da/3cc96/F.-F.-Beale-House-Caldwell-Idaho.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Idaho","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"When it comes to a new grass type, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Here are the best grass types for your Idaho lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"3be857f9-2184-5df9-a047-d3e9978d2031","slug":"summer-lawn-care-guide-austin","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/summer-lawn-care-guide-austin/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nicki DeStasi is a writer, author, and teacher who grew up in western Massachusetts and currently resides in the Austin area. She enjoys flower and vegetable gardening, reading, cooking, listening to true-crime podcasts, and spending time with her husband, two children, dog, and cat.","name":"Nicki DeStasi","id":"ffbf62e2-d627-5a5f-a041-4eaa9ac66924","path":"/author/nicki-destasi/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9846092d7afb2db8d0a4daa2454074f0?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 3rd, 2019","excerpt":"Austin temperatures climb as spring turns into summer and rainfall becomes scarce. Add inconsistent soil and constant city construction, and maintaining a healthy lawn isn’t easy. It takes hard work and vigilance. However, if you follow our guide to summer lawn care in Austin, you can rest easy knowing you’re giving your lawn a fighting […]
\n","content":"\nAustin temperatures climb as spring turns into summer and rainfall becomes scarce. Add inconsistent soil and constant city construction, and maintaining a healthy lawn isn’t easy. It takes hard work and vigilance. However, if you follow our guide to summer lawn care in Austin, you can rest easy knowing you’re giving your lawn a fighting chance.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith an average temperature of 96 degrees Fahrenheit and only three days of rain in July and August, it’s safe to say Austin’s summers are hot and dry. Both heat and low rain stress your lawn, making it vulnerable. Proper summer lawn maintenance–like watering, mowing, dealing with pest or disease problems, and more–is vital to a healthy, vibrant, backyard party-worthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe best lawn care maintenance plan starts with understanding your soil and choosing the best type for your lawn. From there, fertilize when needed, aerate, dethatch, and maintain your grass with good watering and mowing practices. Fall all this up by protecting your lawn from ugly, Austin lawn problems, like pests, diseases, and weeds.
\n\n\n\nWith the high temperatures and low rainfall, warm-season grass types thrive in Austin lawns. However, warm-season grasses go dormant in the fall and winter, so mixing in cool-season grass cultivars allows Austinites to have a gorgeous, green lawn year-round. Here are some of the best grass types for Austin lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bermudagrass-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in regions with hot summers and mild winters. Winter temperatures stress warm-season grasses, and when temperatures drop, these cultivars go dormant and turn brown.
\n\n\n\nLight-green and fine-textured bermudagrass is a popular choice. This fast-growing grass is used in home lawns, sports fields, and parks.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass grows quickly, creating a thick, coarsely textured, dark green lawn. Its nickname is “carpet grass” thanks to its dense appearance.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is soft, fine-textured, and gray-green or blue-green. Although slow-growing, it won’t invade flower beds like many fast-growing grass types.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is light to medium emerald green with medium to fine leaf texture. It grows quickly and stays green longer than most warm-season grass types.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nLike bermudagrass, seashore paspalum is light to medium green with a fine leaf texture. It has a dense root system and grows quickly.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nWhile cool-season grasses grow in the North, preferring cold winters and mild summers, they also thrive in the mild Southern winters. Heat is the major hurdle for cool-season grasses, so they need more energy to stay green when temperatures rise. Eventually, they’ll go dormant in the summer.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lolium_perenne_L._Perennial_Ryegrass_-_cultivated_3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Arthur Chapman / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a fine-textured, medium-green grass. Along with lawns and golf courses, it’s popular for construction areas. It is often used to prevent erosion because of its fast germination rate.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nA hybrid between Kentucky bluegrass and Texas native grass, Texas bluegrass remains green in the summer. Its dark green color lasts longer than most cool-season grasses. This turfgrass is fine-textured and densely growing.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxfuel.com-7-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nEveryone knows Austin likes to “keep it weird,” but you may not know that three ecoregions converge in the city. The Edwards Plateau, the Blackland Prairies, and the Post Oak Savannah Floodplains have different soil types.
\n\n\n\nThe Edwards Plateau covers most of West Austin, with 1st Street being the approximate dividing line. It has the following properties:
\n\n\n\nThe Blackland Prairie covers Northeast Austin near I-290 and Southeast Austin in the Onion Creek area. You can expect to find the following properties:
\n\n\n\nThe Post Oak Savannah Floodplain covers East Austin, downtown through Del Valle. Expect to find:
\n\n\n\nSoil type is only one factor affecting soil quality. Other factors include:
\n\n\n\nTo ensure your soil is in tip-top shape, get your soil tested every one to three years. Once you receive your results, you’ll better understand what your lawn needs, including fertilization.
\n\n\n\nMost lawns will need some fertilization, but too much is harmful. Here are a few fertilizing tips to help you feed your lawn and minimize damage:
\n\n\n\nThe average grass cultivar needs about 0.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn, but each grass type has different needs.
\n\n\n\n![\"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\nYour watering practices have a significant effect on your lawn’s health. While your grass and native plants are adapted to Austin’s USDA hardiness Zone, 8, they still face high temperatures, drought, and water restrictions.
\n\n\n\nHere are some helpful tips to get the most out of your watering practices:
\n\n\n\nTake a look at the recommended watering amounts for popular grass types in Austin:
\n\n\n\n| Warm-Season Grass Type | Weekly Watering Needs in Inches |
| Bermudagrass | 1.25 |
| Buffalograss | 1 |
| St. Augustinegrass | 1 |
| Zoysiagrass | 1 |
![\"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\nTo make a significant impact on the health of your lawn, mow like a pro. It is important to know what time to mow, how often to mow, and how high you should mow.
\n\n\n\nHere are some pro mowing tips to keep your lawn looking its best:
\n\n\n\nUnderstanding when to mow is also critical to keeping your lawn green.
\n\n\n\nMowing frequency changes with the seasons. Here’s an optimal mowing schedule for each season:
\n\n\n\n| Season | Mowing Frequency |
| Spring | Once per week |
| Summer | 1-2 times per week |
| Fall | Once every 7-10 days |
| Winter | Rarely, as needed |
The largest factor affecting your mowing frequency is your lawn’s turfgrass cultivar. Here are the recommended summer mowing heights and frequencies for popular Austin grass types.
\n\n\n\n![\"tool](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3409167404_35aeb9659b_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: allispossible.org.uk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBecause Austin sits on the convergence of three different ecoregions, there are three distinctly different soil types. Two of the three soils are compacted, requiring regular aeration and turfgrass dethatching.
\n\n\n\nAeration involves poking small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients into the lawn. Doing this allows the roots to grow deeply, creating a stronger, more robust lawn.
\n\n\n\nAeration relieves soil compaction. Compacted soils prevent proper absorption of air, water, and nutrients within the soil. Excess organic debris, like leaves and thatch, starve the roots of essential nutrients.
\n\n\n\nThatch is a mixture of dead and living roots, and build-up occurs when turf produces waste faster than the environment can break it down. A little thatch is good as it helps insulate the soil and maintains moisture levels. However, thatch over ½ inch hinders water and nutrient absorption, starving your grass.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, many Austin lawns are prone to thatch build-up, because:
\n\n\n\nSome creeping grass types that are prone to thatch include:
\n\n\n\nIf you need to dethatch, you have a few options. Liquid dethatching increases enzymes and thatch-eating organisms. If thatch build-up is just forming, try a dethatching rake. But if you moderate build-up or more, use a power-driven dethatcher, like a vertical mower.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red_Ants_1214176165.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William Cho / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nBugs are the worst, and since Austin is in the South, we get our fair share of them. Some Austin bugs are nuisances, some carry diseases, and some will destroy your carefully crafted lawn and garden.
\n\n\n\nHere are some annoying, sometimes harmful pests you’ll encounter in your Austin backyard:
\n\n\n\nWhile these common pests are a nuisance and sometimes dangerous to your family and pets, they don’t affect your lawn. However, some lawn pests lay devastation, and you’ll need to intervene quickly.
\n\n\n\nWhile most ants cause damage to your lawn by boring through the dirt, fire ants are awful, creating mounds and messing up your soil and turf. If you step on a mound, you’re in trouble. This invasive species latches on with its barbed mandibles and stabs you repeatedly with its venomous stinger, leaving itchy pus-filled bites that take days to heal.
\n\n\n\nKeep an eye out for dirt mounds in your lawn. If you spot one, apply fire ant bait, following the manufacturer’s directions. Unfortunately, some colonies abandon mounds and create new ones a few yards away. Consider hiring a professional to eliminate the pesky invaders.
\n\n\n\nGrubs are small, fat, white, c-shaped, caterpillar-like insects you often find while gardening or digging. They’re actually beetle larvae, and they feed on your grass’ roots, causing brown spots and dead turf. If you’re unsure if your turfgrass problem is caused by grubs or a disease, tug on the grass blades. If they come out easily, you may have a grub infestation.
\n\n\n\nTo get rid of grubs, use a grub-specific pesticide. Follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully, or you could harm your lawn. Additionally, apply nematodes or milky spores if you want a natural method. Dethatching and aeration help by giving the grubs less to eat.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs are tiny black insects with white wings. While they may be small, they cause colossal problems. They suck the sap from the base and stolons of grass blades and inject a toxic substance that prevents the plant from transporting water. Soon, patches of your lawn will turn yellow, then brown, before dying. The damage will spread until you handle the infestation.
\n\n\n\nBecause the damage often resembles drought stress or disease, you may not realize the problem immediately. Good lawn maintenance–dethatching, aeration, and not overwatering– help control chinch bugs. Applying preventative pesticides in the spring and targeted insecticides in the summer and fall will eliminate the pests.
\n\n\n\nArmyworms are not actually worms. They’re dark brown caterpillars with white, orange, or yellow stripes, and they can wreck your lawn in a few days by gobbling up grass blades. Armyworms are only two inches long but travel in large groups. They typically go unnoticed until the damage is severe.
\n\n\n\nThe best way to prevent armyworms is applying preventative, commercial-grade pesticides and maintaining your lawn. Armyworms prefer a dense, over-thatched, moist lawn, so a well-maintained lawn eliminates their preferred habitat.
\n\n\n\nSome grasses are more susceptible to pests than others. Here’s what you can expect from common Austin grasses:
\n\n\n\nIrrigate and mow your lawn twenty-four hours before insecticide applications. Use a broad-spectrum, non-repellent insecticide containing carbaryl or pyrethroid to treat affected areas. Apply preventative treatments in May before the heat of summer sets in and then another in June.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Scot Nelson / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nLawn diseases are not fun to deal with, and if you’re an Austin homeowner, you may know this from personal experience. They’ll turn a stunning lawn into a brown, patchy mess.
\n\n\n\nLawns catch a disease when a trio of factors occur:
\n\n\n\nLet’s look at each of these a little closer:
\n\n\n\nMost diseases need daytime temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures above 55 degrees. They also need moisture from dew, irrigation, or rainfall to infect the blades. Lastly, stressed grass is easier to infect and a strong, healthy lawn is more resistant to attack.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, we can’t control the weather, but we can take steps to reduce stress and encourage growth. Here are some key tips to encourage a strong lawn:
\n\n\n\nBecause most lawn diseases are fungal, use a fungicide to eliminate problems. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions. Too much fungicide will burn your grass, and too little won’t be effective.
\n\n\n\nIf you’d rather treat the fungus naturally, there are several solutions:
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_stellaria_media_common_chickweed_ჟუნჟრუკი.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lazaregagnidze / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLike diseases, weeds love an unhealthy lawn. If you see weeds, some underlying problems include low-nitrogen, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf. Weeds suck up vital nutrients, water, and sunlight from your turfgrass while simultaneously creating an ideal environment for pests and diseases. To control weeds, maintain a healthy lawn with routine maintenance.
\n\n\n\nThere are two ways to control weeds in your lawn: chemical treatments and hand pulling. Pulling weeds by hand is the safest removal method, but it isn’t always the best. Be sure to identify the type of weed you are dealing with before selecting your removal method.
\n\n\n\nFollow these summer weeding tips:
\n\n\n\nBefore you blink, weeds take over and ruin your gorgeous green grass. Here are five common Austin weeds:
\n\n\n\nCheck out our guide covering the 12 worst weeds in Austin to learn more.
\n\n\n\nSome grass types are more resistant to weeds than others. Check out the most common Austin grass types:
\n\n\n\nLawn maintenance can be overwhelming, but there are some steps you can take to create a low-maintenance Austin lawn that will save time and money.
• Xeriscape: low-maintenance landscaping emphasizing water conservation
• Rock Garden: little to no maintenance hardscaping
• Native plants: adapted to Austin’s climate, requiring little care
• Hardscapes: reduce green vegetation with functional hardscapes like a fire pit, patio, or pergola
• Automatic Irrigation: set-it-and-forget-it smart irrigation saves times and money and conserves water
• Mulch: reduces weeds
Organic mulch needs to be replaced yearly. Inorganic mulch, like gravel or rubber, needs to be replaced every 5-10 years.
In Austin, plant grass seed in March or April. Spring planting helps avoid late-season frost and gives the seed time to germinate before the summer heat sets in.
Summer is the perfect time for lounging on Lady Bird Lake, tubing the Comal River, backyard barbecuing, and pool partying. It’s also the time for rapid plant growth and lawn maintenance. Instead of sweating in the Austin heat, let Wikilawn match you with a local lawn care professional who will take care of your lawn so you can get back to enjoying your summer.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Texas, Austin / dszc / Canva Pro / License
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