![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysia-grass.jpg\")
With the beautiful subtropical climate in Jacksonville, who wouldn’t want a lush lawn to match the greenery? However, you should choose a species that can handle the warm weather, rain or shine. These warm-season grass types are well-suited for the city. Let’s review the pros and cons of each species so you can plant the […]
\n","content":"\nWith the beautiful subtropical climate in Jacksonville, who wouldn’t want a lush lawn to match the greenery? However, you should choose a species that can handle the warm weather, rain or shine. These warm-season grass types are well-suited for the city. Let’s review the pros and cons of each species so you can plant the best lawn for your property.
\n\n\n\nAlmost every lawn you see in Florida is made up of warm-season grass. Warm-season grasses do best in the southern half of the United States, while cool-season grasses do best in the northern states. Warm-season grasses thrive in spring and summer but turn brown and dormant in the winter. Of course, Jacksonville has mild winters, so your lawn will stay green longer.
\n\n\n\nThough many species of warm-season grasses exist, these five are the best-suited for Jacksonville lawns.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhile Zoysiagrass originated in Asia, it’s well-adapted to warm, humid weather like that in Jacksonville. This light- to medium-green grass is heat and drought tolerant with low maintenance needs. However, it can still go dormant or die in extreme heat. Zoysiagrass has better cold tolerance than most warm-season grasses, which makes it a good fit for North Florida.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass can tolerate some shade but grows best in full sun. Zoysiagrass’ density helps it resist wear, diseases, weeds, and pests. It also tolerates herbicides more than other grass types. However, it’s slow to establish. Sod works better for establishment than plugs or seeds, even though it’s the more expensive option.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and low to moderate fertilizer needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches. Cut with a sharp blade and mow taller if it’s in partial shade
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance and not prone to insect infestation
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Depends on the cultivar, but generally, well-draining soils work best
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Zoysiagrass has a good salt tolerance, which makes it ideal for coastal Jacksonville. Because of its dense growth pattern, zoysiagrass is popularly sold as sod.
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermuda-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nThis fine- to medium-textured grass is native to tropical and subtropical climates. Bermudagrass can stay bright green year-round with sufficient irrigation or rainfall but will turn brown with the year’s first frost. It thrives in direct sunlight and has a good humidity and salt tolerance. Its deep root system makes it drought-tolerant, though it may go dormant during extended drought.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is suitable for lawns with lots of foot traffic, such as sports fields and play areas. Why? Its fast growth helps it heal quickly from damage. However, this aggressive growth can make it difficult to contain. Bermudagrass requires frequent mowing and fertilization to keep up with its growth pattern.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Bermudagrass must be frequently mowed to deal with its rapid growth. It also develops thatch easily. Bermudagrass may require monthly fertilization during its peak growing season of late spring.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermudagrass spreads aggressively, so you must watch out for it spreading into garden beds and neighbors’ yards. It has good salt and humidity tolerance. Establish with seeds, sod, sprigs, or plugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis Brazilian grass is low-maintenance, with little water or fertilizer needed. Its extensive root system allows it to survive in drought and sandy, acidic, and infertile soils. However, it may go dormant during extended drought. It also doesn’t do well in salty or alkaline soils.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass isn’t as thick as other grasses and needs full sun to thrive. It’s best for lawns without too much foot traffic. It will take a while to establish with seeds, but you can also install sod. Though it has low fertilizer needs, it is susceptible to iron deficiency.
\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: Moderate to high. Mow every seven to 14 days. Ensure the blade is sharp so it can cut through the thick leaves and seed head stems.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low with moderate insect tolerance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soils and does well in sandy loam
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bahiagrass is best grown from seeds or sod. Plugging and sprigging are possible but leave the lawn susceptible to weeds. Overwatered bahiagrass is weaker and more susceptible to weeds.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St.-Augustinegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the Gulf of Mexico coastline, St. Augustinegrass is one of Florida’s most common turf grasses. It has a coarse texture and blue-green color. Most cultivars have higher shade tolerance than other warm-season grasses. While it grows well in cool and humid coastal climates, it doesn’t do particularly well in drought and turns brown in winter.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass grows quickly, which helps it crowd out weeds. However, it isn’t the densest grass and may not do well with heavy traffic. St. Augustinegrass is vulnerable to chinch bugs and fungal diseases, though some cultivars resist chinch bugs.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate, with one of the highest shade tolerances of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing and fertilizing frequency
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 3-4 inches for standard varieties and 2.5-3 inches for dwarf varieties; mow tall in shade
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high. St. Augustinegrass is vulnerable to gray leaf spot, large patch, take-all rot, and chinch bugs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows best in moderately fertile and moist soils with good drainage. It doesn’t tolerate drought or soil compaction.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It will do well in moist soils and mild winters but turn brown during cold winters. St. Augustinegrass has a good salt tolerance. Plant with plugs, sprigs, or sod.
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nOriginating in Asia, centipedegrass is well-adapted for Central and North Florida. It’s slow-growing but requires less fertilization and mowing than other grass types in the area. Centipedegrass does well in sandy, acidic soils, making it a good choice for the generally acidic soil in Florida. However, coastal properties may have alkaline soils, so be sure to get a soil test.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass naturally has a medium texture and light green color. Overfertilization could cause centipedegrass decline and dead patches that are difficult to repair. Centipedegrass doesn’t have a high tolerance for salt, traffic, drought, or cold. It is also sensitive to many types of herbicides.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate, but it needs at least six hours of full sun daily
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency and fertilization needs; overfertilization causes heavy thatch and centipedegrass decline
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low. Good resistance to diseases and insects. However, centipedegrass is susceptible to nematodes
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Can grow in acidic, sandy, and infertile soils. It needs moderately good drainage and doesn’t do well in heavy clay soils.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Centipedegrass is slow-growing and doesn’t have a high cold or salt tolerance. Establish with seed, sod, sprigs, or plugs.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBermudagrass and Zoysiagrass have the best foot traffic tolerance. If you also need durability in the face of drought and disease, Zoysiagrass is well-equipped to face these problems.
Centipedegrass is the easiest to maintain because of its low mowing and fertilization needs. If you need something with a higher traffic tolerance, consider Zoysiagrass.
Jacksonville gets a fair amount of rain, but droughts and dry spells aren’t unheard of. Because of that, it’s best to water on an as-needed basis. When you see folding or wilting leaves, color changes, or visible footprints, give your lawn ½ to ¾ inch of water. Make sure you follow local watering restrictions.
Choosing suitable grass is only the first step. You must plant and properly maintain your lawn to get the desired results. And what about the rest of your yard? Low-maintenance landscaping with native plants will make maintenance easier and allow you to enjoy the beautiful Jacksonville weather surrounded by equally beautiful greenery.
If you need help with your lawn or other yardwork, contact a Jacksonville lawn care professional.
Main Image Credit: indigolotos / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Jacksonville, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/1789c/grassy-lawn-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/107df/grassy-lawn-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/293e9/grassy-lawn-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/f2cbb/grassy-lawn-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/1789c/grassy-lawn-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/c26c2/grassy-lawn-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/1dd6e/grassy-lawn-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/67b76/grassy-lawn-1.webp 320w,\n/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/8df11/grassy-lawn-1.webp 500w,\n/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/98a65/grassy-lawn-1.webp 800w,\n/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/1dd6e/grassy-lawn-1.webp 960w,\n/static/20416ab858f0f023fbf3883df4651762/3cc96/grassy-lawn-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Jacksonville, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Need to plant a new lawn in your Jacksonville yard? These warm-season grasses are well-suited for the subtropical climate."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"079c05ff-d6c4-5155-8d73-697c9856b528","slug":"watering-restrictions-in-jacksonville","path":"/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/watering-restrictions-in-jacksonville/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"075cc120-3dd3-51e4-aead-643f50a8453e","name":"Jacksonville","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"August 6th, 2019","excerpt":"Like many other Florida cities, Jacksonville has imposed watering restrictions. Before you turn on the sprinkler or hose, make sure you’re up to date with the rules.
\n","content":"\nJust because we live next to an ocean, doesn’t mean we have access to unlimited water supplies. Fresh water is one of our most precious resources. That’s why there are watering restrictions in Jacksonville and many other cities in Florida. Before you turn on the sprinkler or hose, make sure you’re up to date with the regulations.
\n\n\n\nWatering restrictions are enforced year-round in Jacksonville and throughout the 18 Northeast Florida counties in the St. Johns River Water Management District. You may water only on Saturday if your address ends in an odd number, and on Sunday if your address ends with an even number. You get an extra day during Daylight Saving Time (March-November). By limiting lawn watering, the hopes to conserve water during peak usage. Here’s a look at the summer schedule.
\n\n\n\nBut each year, when November arrives and you set back your clock an hour for Standard Time, your watering also must do a “fall back” to watering just once a week. That’s Saturday for odd-numbered addresses and Sunday for even-numbered addresses.
\n\n\n\nEven if it’s your day to water, you may not turn on the sprinklers between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The reason? Most of the water ends up evaporating in the heat of the sun. You can turn the sprinklers on in the evening, but you could be inviting fungus and disease to your lawn since the grass will stay wet most of the night. The best time for watering is at sunup, first thing in the morning.
\n\n\n\nYou can water any day of the week if you’re using a handheld device like a hose. That doesn’t mean you can turn the hose on, lay it down, and let it run. You may also use “gray water,” (recycled bath or kitchen sink water). Areas of newly established landscaping may also be exempt.
\n\n\n\nViolating the watering or fertilization ordinances can cost you. The first offense results in a written warning. A second violation could get you a $50.00 ticket while a third violation could cost you more than $250.00.
\n\n\n\nThe Clean Water Act set forth by the City of Jacksonville also limits the amount of fertilizer that enters into the St. Johns River. Local retailers and property owners are also asked to be mindful of fertilizer treatments that could run off into the water supply. Required ground cover or landscaping that extends at least 6 feet around bodies of water help protect the water supply. Florida-Friendly landscaping, a program from the University of Florida Extension, stresses the use of native plants. Native plants need little water and are much easier to maintain.
\n\n\n\nThe St. Johns River Water Management District supplies North Florida with more than 540 million gallons of water a day. More than half of that is used in our landscapes. By following the watering restrictions in Jacksonville, we’ll keep the taps flowing for years to come.
\n\n\n\nHave questions about lawn care in Jacksonville? Make sure to check our Jacksonville, FL lawn care page.
Our homes and businesses are often our most important investments. So naturally, it is just as important to keep their exteriors looking fresh and current. Often when we think of ‘exterior upgrades’ we assume large-scale projects that eat up both time and money. However, with a few small updates, our exterior upgrades can have both […]
\n","content":"\nOur homes and businesses are often our most important investments. So naturally, it is just as important to keep their exteriors looking fresh and current. Often when we think of ‘exterior upgrades’ we assume large-scale projects that eat up both time and money. However, with a few small updates, our exterior upgrades can have both a positive impact on our curb appeal as well as our pocketbooks.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/mailbox-for-dallas-affodable-house-upgrades.jpg\")
It may sound simple, but replacing an old mailbox can add style and personality to your front exterior. To create a cohesive look it should match the design style of the exterior of your house. Not quite ready to say goodbye to your mailbox? Simply add new colorful plantings around your existing mailbox’s post. Try for a mix of flashy blooms and some evergreen shrubs, such as a backdrop of Golden Shrimp Plant and Indian Hawthorn.
\n\n\n\nJust as your mailbox is a primary focal point for visitors, your house numbers are just as important. Update your basic numbers by going with the same design style as your home’s exterior (and new mailbox). Orlando is blessed with a wide range of architectural styles, so if you have a craftsman bungalow look for house numbers that you feel highlight the asymmetrical architecture and tapered columns of your home. Art Deco is definitely in right now and there are lots of ornate options that would tie into your unique style. So whether you live in a modern contemporary building or a one of a kind historic pueblo design, finding a set of house numbers to match your style is a must.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/landscape-lighting-for-dallas-post.jpg\")
Hitting refresh on your exterior lighting fixtures can do wonders for changing the look of your home’s exterior without doing a major renovation. There are thousands of different options for exterior lighting in every possible design style imaginable. Wall mounted sconces, hanging lights under a porch, ground lights that illuminate your entryway are all chances to express your personal style while adding an upgrade to your exterior.
\n\n\n\nPainting an entire house can be an overwhelming task both in time and cost. However, thinking smaller and focusing on another key focal point of your home’s exterior will give you just as much satisfaction. Giving your front door a new coat of paint will offer a chance to change up your color scheme or refresh what was already in place. Either way, you’ll be adding new life to an existing feature.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/accent-pots-dallas.jpg\")
If you find yourself short on time or out of space to pursue a new landscaping feature look to adding accent planters around your exterior. Your local home improvement or garden center will have a wide selection of outdoor planting pots to choose from. When selecting a location for your new additions think about how the shape and color of both the pot and the plants you choose can be used to accent your home’s exterior features.
\n\n\n\nDressing your existing planting beds with a fresh layer of mulch is not only good for the continued health of your plants but it also makes your beds look new and well cared for instead of washed out weather worn.
\n\n\n\nMaintain your hard work out in the garden by keeping your plants happy. Be sure to take the time to keep your beds weed free so they thrive where they are planted and your green thumb is not hidden by undesirable scraggly weeds. Deadhead spent flowers or seed pods after the seeds have fallen or been eaten by the birds. And be sure to thin out any planting groups if they seem to get a little too crowded in the space you’ve planted them.
\n\n\n\nLiving in the hot humid climate of Orlando, we understand how quickly vegetation can grow. While we love that it means our grass is green and there is almost always fresh flowers, it can also mean a never-ending battle with moss, mildew, and mold on all of our surfaces. Consider renting a power washer to tackle the green buildup on siding, patios, and pavers. Instantly get a clean and fresh feeling with an afternoons worth of work.
\n\n\n\nLooking for lawn care tips? Visit our Orlando lawn care page for all sorts of tips, tricks, and general information.
\n\n\n\n\n","title":"Most Affordable Exterior Upgrades for Orlando, FL Residents","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/1789c/orlando-landsape-design.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/107df/orlando-landsape-design.jpg 320w,\n/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/293e9/orlando-landsape-design.jpg 500w,\n/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/f2cbb/orlando-landsape-design.jpg 800w,\n/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/1789c/orlando-landsape-design.jpg 960w,\n/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/e0d73/orlando-landsape-design.jpg 990w","srcWebp":"/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/1dd6e/orlando-landsape-design.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/67b76/orlando-landsape-design.webp 320w,\n/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/8df11/orlando-landsape-design.webp 500w,\n/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/98a65/orlando-landsape-design.webp 800w,\n/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/1dd6e/orlando-landsape-design.webp 960w,\n/static/ca2776c46f2a8cbf190a11de5b23d0f4/ffa97/orlando-landsape-design.webp 990w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Most Affordable Exterior Upgrades for Orlando, FL Residents | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"b79c8019-1776-582e-9601-abe5d60d4084","slug":"best-native-plants-tampa","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/best-native-plants-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":"July 19th, 2019","excerpt":"Florida is a botanical wonderland. From brightly colored flowers to unique tropical trees, the Sunshine State has plenty of native plant diversity – and we’ll help you find the right ones for your Tampa landscape.
\n","content":"\nTampa Bay’s subtropical climate and coastal location provide the perfect conditions for many beautiful native plants to thrive right in your front yard (and backyard). Planting native plants is the perfect way to add a touch of Florida to your Tampa landscape. There are several reasons homeowners should consider installing native plants:
\n\n\n\nFrom tropical palms to beautiful wildflowers, native plants have grown in the Tampa Bay area’s subtropical climate for hundreds of years and are well-adapted to the conditions.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/beautyberry-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Tony Alter / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry, also called French mulberry, features large leaves and arching stems full of either flowers or berries, depending on the time of year. Once late summer hits, the flowers mature into bright violet berries that last until fall and sometimes into winter. The berries grow in multiple clusters along the woody stem, spaced out along the vine like veggies on a kabob.
\n\n\n\nAlthough the berries are edible, they are not known for being particularly tasty, though they are sometimes used to make jelly. Birds enjoy snacking on the raw berries. Beautyberry flowers are white, pink, or lavender, and their nectar attracts bees and butterflies in spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nGrowing at forest edges, American beautyberry loves sunlight, though it thrives best with regular hydration.
\n\n\n\nThe serrated leaves of beautyberry are broad, perfect for sheltering small wildlife. When crushed, the leaves have a pleasant aroma that wards off mosquitoes. Rubbing crushed leaves on your skin can act as a natural mosquito repellent.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
USDA hardiness zone: 6-11
Mature size: 3-9 feet tall and 3-8 feet wide
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Deciduous
Sunlight needs: Full or partial sun
Soil preferences: Loamy, sandy, chalk, clay, acidic, well-drained
Water needs: Low.
Salt tolerance: Low.
Wind resistance: Moderate
Potential hazards: Non-toxic; berries are edible
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bald-Cypress.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe bald cypress is a water-loving tree that can survive being submerged in water for long periods of time. Because of their affinity for water, bald cypresses are typically found in swampy areas or growing near streams and rivers.
\n\n\n\nWith delicate fern-shaped leaves and peeling silver bark, bald cypresses are just as beautiful in the summer months as they are in the autumn when the leaves change to a colorful blaze of burnt orange. Bald cypresses produce cones full of seeds that make a nice snack for birds, squirrels, and other small critters.
\n\n\n\nWith a lifespan that would make even Grandmother Willow jealous, bald cypresses live for a very long time, up to 600 years.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Confier
USDA hardiness zone: 4-9
Mature size: 50-100 feet
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Deciduous
Sunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade
Soil preferences: Sandy or loamy soils; adapts well to a wide range of soil pH
Water needs: Low
Salt tolerance: Moderate
Wind resistance: High
Potential hazards: Might cause mild allergic reactions
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nFor Tampa residents looking to add a splash of vivid color to their landscape, butterfly weed produces a blaze of star-shaped flowers. The tiny flowers grow in clusters of orange, although sometimes they come in red or yellow hues. Their hairy stems stand erect, crowned with lush flower blossoms. The stems are populated with long, thin leaves that are a rich green color.
\n\n\n\nAs one might guess, one of the most delightful aspects of butterfly weed is its ability to attract butterflies to your yard. Monarch butterflies are attracted to butterfly weed, which is a host for butterfly eggs. Their pollen and nectar attract bees and hummingbirds, as well. Unlike most milkweed types, the sap of butterfly weeds is translucent and doesn’t irritate the skin.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed grows in fields and prairies throughout Hillsborough County. The drought-tolerant plant can take a while to get established. Sometimes it can take up to three years until it starts to flower during late summer and early fall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
USDA hardiness zone: 3-9
Mature size: 1-3 feet tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Herbaceous
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Well-drained, dry, rocky, loamy, sandy, and clay
Water needs: Low
Salt tolerance: Moderate
Wind resistance: Moderate
Potential hazards: Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/firebush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mokki / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nA favorite for hummingbirds and butterflies, firebush produces tubular flowers from spring through fall. Their flowers look like a cluster of tiny hot peppers, blending shades of orange, yellow, and red to add a fiery flare of color to any yard.
\n\n\n\nNicknamed the scarlet bush, firebush is a behemoth of yard plants, adding bushy vegetation that can grow up to 15 feet tall. Homeowners love these bushes for their resistance to hurricanes, making them a suitable fit for hurricane-prone Tampa.
\n\n\n\nFirebush flourishes in South Florida. These plants tolerate a wide range of soils and aren’t the pickiest about where they settle down. Small mammals and birds love snacking on the black berries. The leaves of a firebush possess medicinal properties for healing bug bites, fungal infections, and rashes.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
USDA hardiness zone: 8-11
Mature size: 5-15 feet tall and 2-6 feet wide
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun; needs at least 6-8 hours of sunlight a day
Soil preferences: Well-drained, sandy, loamy, slightly alkaline soil
Water needs: Moderate
Salt tolerance: Moderate
Wind resistance: High.
Potential hazards: Not toxic; berries are edible
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gloriosa-Lily.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n\n\n\nLike a blaze of fire, the gloriosa lily blooms in a rich medley of curling red petals trimmed with yellow. The plant originated in Africa and Asia. The gloriosa lily is a boon to butterflies and bees, who love to visit its sweet-smelling flowers. The beauty and unusual shape of this lily has earned it many nicknames:
\n\n\n\nA type of bulb, gloriosa lilies have tubers for their root system. The plant is a climber with vine-like tendrils that creep upward, making it a great plant for trellises or chain-link fences.
\n\n\n\nDespite the name, gloriosa lilies are not actually lilies. The flame lily can last for decades. A gloriosa lily should be placed in a part of the yard where it can get 6-8 hours of sunlight exposure a day. Gloriosa lilies need rich, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Bulb
USDA hardiness zone: 8-11
Mature size: 4-6 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Deciduous
Sunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
Soil preferences: Well-drained, acidic, alkaline, neutral, loamy, or sandy soils
Water needs: Moderate
Salt tolerance: Low; does not tolerate salt
Wind resistance: Low
Potential hazards: Poisonous to people, dogs, cats, squirrels, and horses; tubers can irritate skin
![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gumbo-Limbo-Tree.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Milo44 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBefore plastic became commonplace, the lightweight wood of gumbo-limbo trees was used for making horses in carousels. With a century-long lifespan, gumbo-limbo is a long-lived Floridia native treasured for its excellent drought resistance.
\n\n\n\nGumbo-limbo trees are distinctive for their coppery color. Its peeling bark looks like sunburned skin, which earned it the nickname “tourist tree.” They grow to impressive heights, sometimes reaching up to 60 feet tall.
\n\n\n\nPlant them a good distance away from your home, driveway, and other structures. Gumbo-limbo trees grow fast and their branches have a wide spread. Sometimes their branches grow low to the ground, so make sure that a gumbo-limbo tree has plenty of space to grow.
\n\n\n\nA gumbo-limbo’s bark has medicinal properties for skin conditions including sunburns, measles, and insect bites. It also can help cure the flu, colds, and fevers. Their flowers are unremarkable unless you are a bee or butterfly, but the summertime berries are a delightful treat for birds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
USDA hardiness zone: 10-11
Mature size: 25-40 feet tall, 25-30 feet wide
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Deciduous
Sunlight needs: Full sun to partial sun
Soil preferences: Clay, sandy, loamy, acidic, alkaline, and well-drained
Water needs: Moderate
Salt tolerance: Moderate
Wind resistance: High
Potential hazards: Non-toxic
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sabal-Palm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nChosen as Florida’s state tree, sabal palms are an iconic symbol of the beach. If you are looking for a hardy, tropical tree for your landscape, a sabal palm is perfect because it can last 100 years. Sabal palm is also called cabbage palm because their immature leaves, named heart of the palm, are edible and taste like cabbage.
\n\n\n\nSabal palms have large, fanlike leaves and produce white flowers in spring. Palms provide a resting spot for birds, and their seeds make a tasty snack for small critters. Sabal palms are impressively resistant to hurricanes.
\n\n\n\nPlant your palm trees in a spot with well-drained soil. Sandy or loamy soil is the best type of earth for a sabal palm to thrive in. Sabal palms are a slow-growing plant, so homeowners will have to patiently wait for the palm to sprout up to an impressive height. On the positive side, sabal palms don’t require much maintenance.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Palm
USDA hardiness zone: 7-11
Mature size: 40-50 feet.; can grow up to 100 feet tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
Soil preferences: Loamy or sandy
Water needs: Average
Salt tolerance: Moderate; doesn’t like salt near its roots
Wind resistance: High
Potential hazards: Non-toxic
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Hibiscus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThis scarlet-flushed water lover usually lurks in marshes, swamps, or besides streams. Scarlet hibiscus flowers, which look like large crimson pinwheels with five petals, add a touch of red to your landscape in summer. Blooming season starts in early summer and lasts until the fall.
\n\n\n\nHummingbirds and butterflies are enticed by the sweet nectar of these flowers, making scarlet hibiscus a great addition to a butterfly garden. Also known as scarlet rose mallow, it thrives in wet soil, so if homeowners have a wet spot in their yard, scarlet hibiscus may be the perfect fit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
USDA hardiness zone: 8-11
Mature size: 3-6 feet high and has a spread of 1-3 feet
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Deciduous
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Loamy, moist soils, organic materials, clay, sandy
Water needs: High
Salt tolerance: High
Wind resistance: Low
Potential hazards: Non-toxic
![\"Seagrape](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/seagrape-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nIt is illegal to harm wild sea grapes, as they are a protected plant species. However, you can bring the shrub-like tree right to your home. Sea grapes don’t produce actual grapes; they derive their name from the purple fruit they produce that strongly resembles grapes in appearance although not in taste.
\n\n\n\nSea grape fruit is edible and can be used for making jelly, jam, or wine. Broad, rounded leaves create a place for lizards to hide, white flowers provide delicious nectar to pollinating insects, and purple fruit offers a delicious snack for birds and squirrels. However, the flowers might trigger allergy symptoms.
\n\n\n\nUsually found growing in sandy beachside soil, sea grapes love oceanside locations. Although it tolerates many types of soil, sea grapes like sandy soils best. The problem with sea grapes is they make quite a mess when they drop fruit all over your lawn. Be prepared to harvest the fruit or deal with cleaning all the fallen fruit out of their lawn.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub/tree
USDA hardiness zone: 10-11
Mature size: 25-50 feet
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun, moderate shade
Soil preferences: Sandy, clay, loamy, well-drained
Water needs: Low
Salt tolerance: High
Wind resistance: High
Potential hazards: Non-toxic. The fruit is edible for people and animals.
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sea-Oxeye-Daisy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: gailhampshire / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nIn the Sunshine State you can bring a drop of sunshine right to your yard with the sea-oxeye daisy. These daisies, shrouded with silvery-green leaves, add a colorful touch of yellow to your landscaping and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nBirds love to eat the little black fruits the shrub produces. Sea-oxeye daisies can be used as either groundcover or as stand-alone plants in your landscape. Coastal homes that experience sea spray from storm surges might want to consider installing sea-oxeye daisies, since they have a high salt tolerance.
\n\n\n\nIn the wild, sea-oxeye daisies are usually found dwelling in salt marshes or beach dunes. In your yard, sea-oxeye daisies perform best in sandy or loamy soils that are well-drained and receive a lot of full sun every day.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
USDA hardiness zone: 8b-11
Mature size: 2-6 feet tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Semi-evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun and light shade
Soil preferences: Sandy, loamy, mud, or clay
Water needs: Low
Salt tolerance: High
Wind resistance: Moderate
Potential hazards: Non-toxic
![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Seaside-Goldenrod.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a cheery touch to your yard, consider seaside goldenrod. The flower’s long stalks burst into color at their tips in an explosion of bright yellow flower clusters. In the wild, seaside goldenrod can be found growing in beaches, dunes, or salt marshes.
\n\n\n\nSeaside goldenrod is a good fit for butterfly gardens, as their sweet nectar attracts honeybees and butterflies. Its nectar can even be used to make honey.
\n\n\n\nAs its name implies, these flowers can usually be found in areas near the sea such as coastal dunes or tidal marshes. It’s a good plant for sandy soils, though it’s not a picky wildflower and it can grow in a variety of soils.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous wildflower
USDA hardiness zone: 8-10
Mature size: 2-8 feet
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Sandy, rocky, clay
Water needs: Low to Average
Salt tolerance: Moderate
Wind resistance: High
Potential hazards: Non-toxic
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spiked-Blazing-Flower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nDespite the name, the spiked blazing flower is not known for its spiky thorns or sharp edges. The plant is named for its bristly appearance, as both its leaves and the petals have a spiky, sharp look to them.
\n\n\n\nThe spiked blazing flower is known by several names:
\n\n\n\nSpiked blazing flower is a tall vertical plant, with a long, thin green stalk topped with clusters of purple flowers. Although the flowers are typically a lavender color, they also can be pink or white as well. The sweet nectar or these plants attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThis drought-tolerant wildflower blooms during summer and early fall, and its leaves turn brown in autumn as the perennial plant goes dormant for the winter. Spiked blazing flowers are susceptible to diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nMake sure to plant this wildflower in a spot that receives a lot of sun each day. They need to be placed in well-drained soils, since wet or soggy soils can cause spike blazing flowers to rot. It performs best in poor soils.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous wildflower
USDA hardiness zone: 3-9
Mature size: 2-6 feet tall, 9-18 inches wide
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Deciduous
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, organic matter
Water needs: Low to moderate
Salt tolerance: Low; does not tolerate salt or salt spray
Wind resistance: Moderate
Potential hazards: Non-toxic
Although native plants grow well in Florida, you can’t place a plant just anywhere and expect it to thrive. Every tree, shrub, and wildflower has different requirements for the type of soil they can thrive in.
\n\n\n\nHere are things to keep in mind when considering what type of native Florida plants to select for your Tampa yard:
\n\n\n\nTampa is in USDA hardiness zone 9b and 10a. Hardiness zones are used to determine the chances of a plant performing well in a certain location. Before you purchase new landscaping plants for your lawn, be sure to consider what plants will fit with the local hardiness zone.
\n\n\n\nTampa has minimum winter temperatures of 25 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Tampa has never reached temperatures higher than 99 degrees Fahrenheit, so it has a mild climate year-round.
\n\n\n\nYou also should consider the size of a plant and how much yard space you have. Trees and shrubs take up quite a bit of space as they grow, so make sure that your yard has plenty of space to accommodate such large plants.
\n\n\n\nFor homeowners looking for a wider variety of native species, the Florida Native Plant Society offers a list of native plants on their website for homeowners to browse and learn more information about Florida-friendly plants.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to keep a splash of flora color in your yard year-round, choose plants that flower all year long. With Florida’s mild winters, it is possible for certain types of flowers to bloom even during Florida’s cold season.
Here’s a list of flowers that bloom year-round in Florida:
● Blanket flower
● Blue daze
● Bougainvillea
● Firespike
● Gerbera daisies
● Hibiscus
● Ixora
● Knock out roses
● Lantana
● Mexican heather
● Penta
● Plumbago
● Salvia
● Vinca
Not every plant is completely safe, as some can be toxic to humans and animals. If you have pets or children, you might want to consider avoiding poisonous plants, or at least be aware of which plants may be toxic so you can keep them safely out of the reach of children or pets.
Here are a few of Florida’s poisonous plants:
● Angel’s trumpet
● Azaleas
● Bracken fern
● Brazilian pepper-tree
● Caladium
● Castor bean
● Coral honeysuckle
● Gloriosa lily
● King sago palm
● Oleander
● Poison Ivy
● Poinsettia
● Rosary pea
● Spotted water hemlock
● Yellow allamanda
If you have any of these plants in your landscape, you should be aware that ingesting them can cause serious problems or, in extreme cases, death.
If you want a butterfly garden, choose a selection of native Florida plants to attract pollinators to plant in your yard. Some plants, such as milkweed, can be used as hosts for butterfly eggs and are an essential part of a butterfly’s growth cycle. Certain types of flowers are better for drawing butterflies to their yard than others, so here’s a list of some butterfly favorites:
● Buddleia
● Blue Porterweed
● Butterfly weed
● Coontie
● Coral bean
● Dill
● Firebush
● Firespike
● Gaillardia
● Hydrangea
● Jatropha
● Jessamine
● Lantana
● Milkweed
● Parsley
● Passion flower
● Penta
Flowers that attract butterflies to your yard will usually draw bees and hummingbirds to your landscape, as well.
Whether you want to add a fiery flare of flowers to your yard or whether you want a long-lived tree to be a part of your landscaping, there are many native Florida plants to choose from. Be sure to ethically source your plants and buy them from a local nursery. Do not transplant them from the wild.
\n\n\n\nIf you are looking for a place to purchase native plants for your Tampa lawn, try checking out these local nurseries for the plants you need:
\n\n\n\nTampa frequently experiences hurricanes, so check out our guide on ideas for a hurricane-resistant landscape. Aside from finding the right plants for your landscaping, you should also consider the best grass types for your Tampa lawn or low-maintenance landscaping ideas to minimize the amount of time spent on yard work.
Ready to transform your yard into a beautiful landscape populated with native flora? Let Wikilawn help you find a Tampa landscaping professional to help with your next landscaping and lawn care projects.
Main Image Credit: Seaside goldenrod / Sam Fraser-Smith / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
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\n","content":"\nAs hurricane season approaches, homeowners begin to prepare their homes for potential damage. While many focus on strengthening their home’s structure, they may overlook the importance of hurricane-resistant landscaping. A landscape that’s well-designed will not only add beauty to your home but also provide protection from wind and water damage during a hurricane.
\n\n\n\nBy using hurricane-resistant plants, designing windbreaks, and implementing proper maintenance, your landscaping can help reduce the risk of damage to your property. Here are 12 hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for St. Augustine to help you prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou can follow these suggestions to make your landscape aesthetically pleasing and capable of enduring the turbulent winds and heavy rainfall that come with the hurricane season:
\n\n\n\nIf your property is situated on the waterfront, it is imperative to construct a seawall. The purpose of seawalls is to shield your home against the unrelenting pummeling of waves and avert erosion. Plus, having a seawall can help you avoid floods during storm surges.
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting a seawall for your property, you must consider various aspects, like the material to use and the associated cost. Opt for a seawall material that can endure the forces of the Atlantic Ocean, such as the following:
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t have a seawall, the shoreline will progressively erode. This, in turn, can inflict substantial damage to your waterfront property. Apart from helping you prevent flooding of your property during storms, seawalls can save you a considerable amount of money in terms of repairs. Hence, it’s crucial not to use materials that decay or corrode over time.
\n\n\n\nMaterials to avoid:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of building a seawall will depend on the material chosen, with costs varying between $113 to $770 per linear foot. But if you leave your property unprotected, the cost of restoring water damage can be significantly higher.
\n\n\n\nWhen preparing for a hurricane, homeowners often neglect backyard fences. Nevertheless, choosing the right type of fence appropriate for your home can have a significant impact. Remember to prioritize durability.
\n\n\n\nBenefits of hurricane-resistant fencing:
\n\n\n\nYou might think that a solid privacy fence is most effective because it can obstruct the wind. However, the absence of air circulation can cause it to give way under the force of high winds. Wooden fences, even the most robust, can be toppled over easily if there are no gaps large enough to permit the wind to flow through.
\n\n\n\nTypes of fencing to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAvoid spending a lot of money on fence replacements and repairs after a storm by investing in a fence that can resist hurricanes. Choose fences that have slats. The following are types of fencing that enable wind to move through with minimal obstruction:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Fence installation costs fluctuate depending on the material you choose, with the cost usually ranging from $8 to $46 per linear foot. Chain-link fences are typically priced between $12 and $33 per linear foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/palm-trees-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Shadowmeld Photography / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nHaving a hurricane-resistant landscape with wind-resistant trees can be extremely helpful when a hurricane passes through. These types of trees have robust and deep roots, a lower center of gravity, and sturdy trunks, reducing the probability of being uprooted by high-speed winds. This decreases the likelihood of your trees becoming a danger to your property or community.
\n\n\n\nEach tree species has unique characteristics, and some are more susceptible to wind damage than others. Here are some of the most exceptional tree species with excellent wind resistance:
\n\n\n\nAvoid planting certain trees in areas prone to hurricane winds, as they are more susceptible to wind damage. The University of Florida IFAS Extension states that the following trees should be avoided in hurricane-prone regions like St. Augustine:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The cost of professional tree planting services can vary significantly, ranging from $22 to $3,300. The total cost will be influenced by several factors, including the type of tree species, as well as its age and size. Typically, the expenses will be lower for small saplings than for larger, more mature trees.
\n\n\n\nFor homeowners who want to maintain a healthy lawn, living near the coast presents a unique challenge due to salty coastal air that can damage plants not suited for the environment. However, choosing the right plants can help. You should select native and salt-tolerant plants that can adapt to local environmental conditions and thrive in areas with high salt content in the soil and air.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners in St. Augustine prefer native plants because they have already evolved to survive in the specific climate and soil of the region. In addition, salt-tolerant plants can withstand high levels of salt water, making them perfect for coastal gardens.
\n\n\n\nOne of the key benefits of choosing salt-tolerant and native plants is that they require less maintenance and watering, which can save time and money. They also lessen the need for pesticides, fertilizers, and other environmentally harmful chemicals.
\n\n\n\nThe University of Florida IFAS extension recommends several popular native and salt-tolerant plants for coastal landscapes, including:
\n\n\n\nGrasses:
\n\n\n\nGroundcovers and flowers:
\n\n\n\nTrees and shrubs:
\n\n\n\nVines:
\n\n\n\nThese plants not only make your coastal landscape beautiful, but they also help support local ecosystems.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The cost of planting a tree can range from a budget-friendly $90 to a more expensive $3,212. Similarly, planting a flower bed can cost anywhere from $861 to $3,100, depending on factors such as the size of the bed and the type of flowers you choose.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tree-Placement.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matthew Paul Argall / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCareful consideration of tree placements is crucial to prevent them from causing property damage during a storm. While trees help enhance a property’s curb appeal and provide shade, you must keep them away from structures such as buildings and power lines.
\n\n\n\nTo determine where to plant your trees, consider their size at maturity and their root systems. A tree planted too close to a home or power line may cause property damage or power outages during a storm.
\n\n\n\nKeeping trees away from structures can bring many benefits. It can reduce the risk of property damage during a storm, prevent power outages caused by falling or swaying trees, and reduce maintenance costs. Planting trees too close to power lines or your home may require more frequent pruning and maintenance, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
\n\n\n\nTo ensure safe and effective tree placement, follow these tips:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The typical cost of tree removal services ranges from $347 to $1,117 per tree. For transplanting trees, it can cost anywhere between $158 and $880.
\n\n\n\nTrees can provide functional and aesthetic benefits when planted strategically. Planting trees in clusters of five or more can improve their resilience to high winds by over 10%, making them more effective in safeguarding your property during hurricane season. Additionally, grouping five trees with diverse appearances and heights can further enhance your property’s visual appeal.
\n\n\n\nHowever, you should avoid planting trees in a straight line. The University of Florida recommends a natural and unforced arrangement for planting trees – each tree must be within 10 feet of the other. This approach can create a strong and sustainable windbreak.
\n\n\n\nBy planting trees in groups, you can enjoy many benefits beyond just the beauty they bring to your lawn. Here are a few advantages of grouping trees:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Tree prices vary greatly depending on species and size, but the usual costs range from $150 to $1,850. To lower the cost per tree or sapling, you can purchase them in bulk. Plus, installing several trees will be less expensive per tree than having a single tree installed, so consider this when planning your landscape.
\n\n\n\nCreating a backyard buffer is a great way of preventing flooding and erosion caused by hurricanes while also creating a beautiful natural environment in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nA backyard buffer or riparian buffer is made up of trees, shrubs, flowers, and mulch that work together to absorb and slow down wind and water. By preventing the full force of the storm from reaching your home, the buffer can protect your property from damage and protect waterways from overheating.
\n\n\n\nOnce established, your backyard buffer can provide many benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nTo create a backyard buffer, choose native plants that can withstand heavy rains and high winds, such as Southern live oak and bald cypress. They also have strong roots that help keep the soil in place and prevent erosion. Additionally, you can use low-maintenance shrubs like firebush and wax myrtle to create a buffer zone around your home.
\n\n\n\nWhen installing your backyard buffer, remember to consult with garden centers, local nurseries, or environmental organizations for expert advice on creating a buffer suited for St. Augustine.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: There are many options for selecting plants, and prices will vary depending on the type of plant. For example, small native perennials are generally less expensive and can cost anywhere from $4 to $25 each. On the other hand, planting a tree can cost much higher, ranging from $22 to $3,300, depending on the tree species, size, and age.
\n\n\n\n![\"Brown](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/tree-grass-light-plant-field-lawn-1359857-pxhere.com-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nHurricane season can wreak havoc on your garden beds, so you should prepare them accordingly. Mulch is an essential part of maintaining a healthy garden, but remember to select the right kind to prevent damage during high winds.
\n\n\n\nOrganic, soft mulches are highly recommended for areas like St. Augustine that experience high winds. During a storm, hard and heavy mulches can become dangerous projectiles, causing damage to your property and neighboring homes.
\n\n\n\nExamples of organic, soft mulch:
\n\n\n\nUnlike hard mulches, such as pebbles, pea gravel, stones, and river rock, organic mulches remain in place better. Plus, they offer numerous benefits to plants, like providing insulation to plant roots, suppressing weed growth, and retaining moisture in the soil.
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting the type of soft mulch, avoid using any materials that may harbor disease or pests. Freshly cut grass clippings should be avoided since they can generate heat and attract harmful organisms. Also, avoid using straw or hay as they may contain weed seeds that will proliferate in your garden beds.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: On average, aged wood chips are priced at approximately $70 per cubic yard, while shredded bark mulch costs around $65 per cubic yard. Alternatively, you can get fresh wood chips for free from a certified arborist or a local tree recycling center. Or you can make your own mulch by composting leaves, providing a nutrient-rich material for your garden beds.
\n\n\n\nTo protect your yard from the effects of extreme weather, you should prioritize regular maintenance. This applies not just to your garden and lawn but also to your trees.
\n\n\n\nInspecting your existing trees regularly is an important part of maintaining a healthy and resilient landscape, particularly in the months leading up to hurricane season. Damaged or diseased trees can pose a significant threat to your property and safety during extreme weather events.
\n\n\n\nDuring inspections, look for signs of damage or disease, such as yellowing leaves, dead branches, and cracks in the trunk. If you leave dying or weakened trees untouched, even mild winds can cause them to fall. So if you want to avoid more problems later on, you should address these issues immediately.
\n\n\n\nTo ensure you identify all hazardous trees on your property, consider hiring a certified arborist to inspect them. These professionals can identify hazardous trees in your yard, and you can work together to develop an effective plan for safely removing them.
\n\n\n\nTo avoid property damage caused by falling branches during a storm, it’s important to take preventive measures in your landscape. Strong winds can easily snap branches, creating a potential hazard for your property. A seemingly harmless long branch hanging over your roof could cause significant damage if it’s not removed in time.
\n\n\n\nTo prevent such scenarios, be sure to prune and trim any weak or overgrown branches on your existing trees. Regular maintenance will ensure your plants are healthy and strong, and won’t succumb to high winds during a storm. If you don’t want a broken branch to smash through a window, damage your car or cause injury, you should keep your trees in good shape.
\n\n\n\nKeeping your property safe during high winds requires more than just tree maintenance. You also should keep your lawn and garden well-maintained by regularly mowing, weeding, and removing debris. This will prevent any hazards from flying around during storms. Regularly fertilizing your lawn and garden can help ensure that your plants remain strong and healthy, and able to withstand extreme weather conditions.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Bush trimming can range from $45 to $75 per hour or $7 to $24 per bush, depending on the type of bush and the amount of work needed. Hedge trimming can cost between $56 and $85 per hour, while tree trimming costs can range from $227 to $708, depending on the size and complexity of the job.
\n\n\n\n![\"storm](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/rsz_6447392233_f7b09919fa_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fried Dough / Flickr / Public Domain
\n\n\n\nTo prevent potential damage caused by rain, you should take precautions to ensure the proper flow of stormwater. This includes:
\n\n\n\nStanding water or puddling can be a risk to your property and weaken roots, making trees more susceptible to damage during storms. A French drain is an effective solution to prevent water from pooling in your yard. This involves installing a drainpipe that redirects water away from your home and ensures proper drainage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Be prepared to spend anywhere from $154 to $1,059 to have your yard cleaned up. If you’ll be having a French drain installed, it can cost from $500 for a small, simple project to $18,000 for a larger or more complex installation.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to clearing debris, trimming trees, and installing drainage systems, another way of preparing your yard for an impending storm is to provide extra protection for your plants. This can be achieved by wrapping trees and large plants with burlap, which will help to reduce the impact of strong winds.
\n\n\n\nFor smaller plants, using a floating row cover and securing it to the ground with garden stakes is a good option. Although these covers may not withstand severe hurricanes, they can still provide protection and lessen the amount of damage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Burlap comes in different sizes and prices, ranging from $7 to $180 per roll. On the other hand, floating row covers have a cost of $11 to $240 per cover, depending on their size and type.
\n\n\n\nTo ensure your lawn and plants recover quickly after a hurricane, you should be mindful of the amount of water they receive. While automatic sprinklers can be convenient during the year, they can cause further damage during a storm. Excessive water can saturate your lawn, and the plants may struggle to recover from it.
\n\n\n\nYou should turn off your water supply entirely to prevent damage from burst pipes during a storm. Once the hurricane has passed, assess the damage and adjust the watering schedule accordingly to give your plants the time they need to recover.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: You don’t have to spend a dime. In fact, it can help lower your monthly water bill.
\n\n\n\nEven though St. Augustine is not as susceptible to hurricane damage as other cities, you must take the necessary precautions and be prepared before hurricane season arrives. Keeping yourself updated with weather forecasts and following storm warnings can help you minimize potential damage to your home and ensure your family’s safety.
\n\n\n\nDo the following to prepare for a hurricane:
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for hurricane-resistant grass options, Zoysiagrass and St. Augustinegrass are the best grass types for you.
Zoysiagrass is a warm-season turfgrass that is highly resistant to strong winds and requires minimal maintenance. Additionally, it’s an excellent choice for homes located along the First Coast due to its salt tolerance.
On the other hand, the warm-season St. Augustinegrass is native to coastal areas. It’s known for its resilience in humid and hot weather conditions, heavy foot traffic, and rough weather conditions. It’s also salt-tolerant and can be an excellent option for homeowners looking for hurricane-resistant grasses.
The Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean offer a conducive environment for hurricanes to develop and strengthen, especially during the peak of the hurricane season, which falls between mid-August and late October. But hurricane season usually begins June 1 and lasts until Nov. 30.
Like Jacksonville, St. Augustine is highly susceptible to hurricanes because of its location along the East Coast. While hurricanes can strike this area at any time, the frequency of these storms varies from year to year.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), St. Augustine has been affected by tropical storms or hurricanes approximately every two to three years over the past century. Note, though, that this is not a fixed pattern, and some years may see more or fewer storms. You must always remain vigilant and prepared for the potential impact of these powerful storms.
As St. Augustine homeowners know all too well, hurricanes are an ever-present threat during the storm season. However, taking proactive steps to prepare for hurricanes can go a long way.
\n\n\n\nOne key aspect of hurricane preparedness is creating hurricane-resistant landscaping. By selecting the right plants, installing barriers and drainage systems, and securing loose items in your yard, you can help minimize damage to your home and ensure your family’s safety.
Don’t wait until the next storm is on the horizon to take action. Reach out to a St. Augustine landscaping professional today and create a beautiful and resilient landscape that can withstand even the toughest storms.
Main Image Credit: Wallpaperflare
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\n","content":"\nThe cooler weather in the fall is a relief for many Jacksonville residents. Goodbye, high AC bills — hello, pumpkin-flavored everything! You may be able to navigate Conner’s A-Maize-ing Acres like a pro but feel lost when it comes to lawn care.
\n\n\n\nFlorida’s warm-season lawns slow their growth in fall. When winter rolls around, they could stay green or turn brown and dormant — both are normal for North Florida. Though your yard work won’t be as sweaty this time of year, setting your lawn up for success before winter is still essential. Pull out your calendar and follow this fall lawn care checklist for Jacksonville.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nYou may be tempted to put away your lawn care tools and leave your turf alone until the next growing season. However, that choice could make your spring lawn care much more challenging. Here’s how your lawn benefits from fall lawn care:
\n\n\n\n![\"Brown](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Rake-Debris.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David Goehring / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJacksonville’s many deciduous plants drop their leaves as the weather cools in the fall. While those leaves are pretty, too many could smother your lawn. There are a few ways you could deal with them:
\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\nDirt may seem simple on the surface, but it’s anything but that. Soil contains most of the nutrients your grass needs. If you understand what’s already in your soil, you can choose the appropriate fertilizer and soil amendments to help your lawn thrive.
\n\n\n\nOne thing soil tests cover is pH. Soil that is too acidic or alkaline isn’t a friendly environment for your turf and could interfere with proper nutrient absorption. Acidity and alkalinity are measured on a pH scale of 1 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral — anything above that number is alkaline, and anything below is acidic.
\n\n\n\nFlorida’s average soil pH is 6.1, meaning it’s slightly acidic. However, your soil pH could be higher if you live close to the ocean because shell materials are alkaline. Building materials can also make the soil more alkaline.
\n\n\n\nHere are the pH preferences for the common Jacksonville turfgrasses:
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Preferred pH Range |
| Bahiagrass | 5.5-6.5 |
| Bermudagrass | 6-6.5 |
| Centipedegrass | 5-6 |
| St. Augustinegrass | 6-7.5 |
| Zoysiagrass | 6-6.5 |
To find out soil pH and nutrient levels, get a soil test from the Duval County Extension Office or another soil testing lab. Use their recommendations when purchasing fertilizer so you don’t oversaturate the soil with nutrients your grass doesn’t need. If your soil pH is too unbalanced, they may recommend soil amendments (lime for acidic soils and sulfur for alkaline soils).
\n\n\n\nSoil tests can take a few weeks to process, so plan accordingly if you want to know your results before fall fertilization. You don’t need to soil test every year, but it can be helpful if:
\n\n\n\n![\"Gloves,](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Weed-Control.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ruth Hartnup from Vancouver, Canada / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you been keeping track of the weed population in your yard? Weeds compete for the same water, nutrients, and sun as your turfgrass. They also can make your lawn look uneven and lower curb appeal. A healthy, thick lawn can outcompete weeds, but sometimes you must intervene.
\n\n\n\nThere are three ways to deal with Jacksonville weeds:
\n\n\n\nManual control: With some gloves and trusty tools, you can pull out weeds by hand. This method is environmentally friendly and won’t harm newly planted grass. However, you need to remove the entire weed. If you leave any roots, tubers, or seeds, the weeds may come back.
\n\n\n\nPost-emergent herbicides: Once you see the weeds, you can spray them with post-emergent herbicides to kill them. Always follow label directions carefully to keep your other plants safe and ensure the herbicide is compatible with your grass type.
\n\n\n\nPre-emergent herbicides: This product prevents weeds from germinating. Use pre-emergent herbicides to get ahead of annual weeds so they’ll never have a chance to deface your lawn. However, they can also kill young grass, so don’t use them if you plan to overseed your lawn.
\n\n\n\nWant to know what weeds to expect in your Jacksonville lawn? Let’s break them down based on lifecycle and learn the best treatment methods.
\n\n\n\nAnnual weeds live for less than a year, though they’ll likely leave enough seeds to spawn another generation next year. Summer annual weeds begin their lifecycle in spring, flourish in summer, and die off in fall. You may find some stragglers in the fall that you can treat with post-emergent herbicides or let them die naturally.
\n\n\n\nSummer annuals in Jacksonville include:
\n\n\n\nSimilarly to their summer counterparts, winter annuals have a three-season lifecycle. They germinate in the fall, do well in winter, and die off by the spring.
\n\n\n\nYou still have time to prevent these weeds if you apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early October. Wait for nighttime temperatures to dip to 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for several nights in a row, then apply one or two times according to package instructions.
\n\n\n\nHere are some winter annuals you may find in Jacksonville:
\n\n\n\nWith a two-year lifespan, biennials can be more challenging to get rid of than short-lived annuals. They won’t flower in the first year, but they’re ready to bloom and spread seeds by the second year. Though they die soon after spreading seeds, you’ll have to deal with their offspring for the next two years. Treat them with herbicides before they flower, if possible.
\n\n\n\nHere are some examples of biennials in Florida:
\n\n\n\nPerennials are the longest-lasting weeds of all, with a lifespan of three or more years. If you don’t get rid of them, they’ll make themselves at home and reseed themselves year after year. Treat them with post-emergent herbicides in the fall before they hunker down for the winter.
\n\n\n\nHere are some perennials to look for in your Jacksonville lawn:
\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\nYour lawn needs to be in good shape while it takes a break from growing, and the last thing it needs is to be munched on by pests. Here are some to keep an eye out for in the fall:
\n\n\n\nFall armyworms: These green or brown caterpillars with dark heads eat all types of turfgrass. Fall armyworms are especially problematic in new grass that’s been heavily fertilized in late summer. You may notice the adult moths fluttering around the area. Treat with pesticides, though remember these products may harm their natural predators.
\n\n\n\nSod webworms: Adult tropical sod webworms peak in October and November. Their larvae feed on all types of warm-season grass leaves. Though this pest may leave during North Florida’s colder winters, the damage it creates in fall can leave your lawn in bad shape for the season. Keep thatch levels low to eliminate hiding spots and treat affected areas with insecticides.
\n\n\n\nWhite grubs: Yellow, easy-to-pull-up grass is a sign something is eating your turf’s roots, and the culprit may be white grubs. These beetle larvae target all kinds of turfgrass. Damage is easiest to spot in late summer and early fall. Apply treatment before they retreat underground later in the fall.
\n\n\n\nContact the University of Florida’s Insect ID Lab for assistance if you find an insect and can’t identify it.
\n\n\n\n![\"Dollar](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Dollar-Spot.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA slow-growing lawn may be less able to fight sickness, so treating diseases before they get out of hand is vital. Here are some diseases to watch for in the fall:
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nAlso known as brown patch, this fungal disease creates round, discolored sections on turfgrass. It often affects Zoysiagrass and St. Augustinegrass, but all warm-season grasses can fall victim. Watch for it when temperatures are below 80 degrees Fahrenheit from November through May.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat large patch:
\n\n\n\nAvoid overwatering and excessive nitrogen applications to discourage large patch. If necessary, treat with fungicides. Turfgrass can best recover when it’s actively growing in spring or summer.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nSmall, beige or white lesions on the grass will eventually cause straw-colored patches the size of a silver dollar or larger on your lawn. Dollar spot can affect any warm-season grass, especially lawns with dry soil and nitrogen deficiency.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat dollar spot:
\n\n\n\nMaintain proper cultural practices like watering, mowing, fertilizing, dethatching, and aerating. Don’t mow the grass too low — your grass could become more vulnerable to dollar spot. Apply nitrogen fertilizer lightly and frequently to build resistance without overfertilizing. Use chemical control if cultural control is unsuccessful.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is the only warm-season grass that suffers from gray leaf spot. It slows growth and thins out lawns. Though this disease thrives most in rainy spring and summer, it extends into September since temperatures are between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Look for light spots with dark brown borders on your grass’ leaves.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat gray leaf spot:
\n\n\n\nMinimize stress and avoid over-watering to prevent the moist environment that this disease loves. Excessive nitrogen also can encourage gray leaf spot. Be careful when applying the herbicide atrazine, as it can worsen the disease. Fungicides are best applied preventatively, so consider them for next spring.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nThough this disease can strike any time of year, it’s most common during the mild, wet seasons of fall and winter. Helminthosporium leaf spot starts as brown or purple pin-sized spots and develops into lesions with pale centers. Infected leaves may turn purple or reddish brown before withering to a light tan shade. It can affect all warm-season grass types but is worst on bermudagrass.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat Helminthosporium leaf spot:
\n\n\n\nAvoid excessive nitrogen applications by following soil test recommendations. A ratio of 1:2 for nitrogen and potassium is best. You also can apply slow-release or quick-release potassium to boost your grass’ resistance. Raise mowing height to help grass fight this disease. Several fungicide options are available if needed.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nPythium root rot causes discolored and thinning grass. Though it’s easiest to observe symptoms on the leaves, the root of the problem is underground and harder to see. Roots will be thin and discolored. All warm-season grasses can be affected by pythium root rot.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat pythium root rot:
\n\n\n\nImprove drainage and avoid overwatering. To deal with the excess moisture from rainfall, mow high and avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade at once so you don’t stress your turf. Balance nitrogen and potassium applications, with extra potassium in early fall for lawns commonly affected by pythium root rot. Apply fungicides if necessary.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nThe slow growth and cool weather in late fall to early spring encourage this disease, while warm weather drives it away. Wet leaves trigger the infection, which causes yellow dots that turn into orange pustules that release spores when touched. Look for rust in St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and any lawn you overseed with perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat rust:
\n\n\n\nRust more severely affects grass with nutrient deficiencies or in shady areas. Follow soil test results to see what your grass needs, and apply a slow-release fertilizer. Keep the grass in shady areas as dry as possible. Use fungicides if cultural control isn’t sufficient.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nThough it’s sometimes called Bermudagrass decline, take-all root rot affects all warm-season grasses. It is caused by stressed turfgrass and excessive rainfall and prevents grass from adequately absorbing water and nutrients. You may notice some leaf discoloration, but the black, rotten roots are the best way to identify the disease.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat take-all root rot:
\n\n\n\nAlleviate stress and maintain proper mowing habits. An equal balance of slow-release nitrogen and potassium will help grass resist the disease. Micronutrients like manganese also may help. Keep in mind that the disease is hard to treat by the time symptoms are visible aboveground. Fungicides are most effective as a preventative measure.
\n\n\n\n![\"Overseeding](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_2img_3650.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile South Florida lawns may stay green all year, North Florida lawns usually turn brown during dormancy. If you want it to stay green, you could overseed with cool-season grass in fall.
\n\n\n\nRyegrass grows fast, is cheap, and will die off in spring, so it doesn’t compete with your usual grass. You can overseed any warm-season grass except centipedegrass, as it could cause centipedegrass decline. Here are the steps you’d need to take:
\n\n\n\nPro tip: Overseeding works best if you dethatched your lawn in spring.
\n\n\n\nRemember, if you choose this route, you’re signing up for extra lawn maintenance. You’ll need to water frequently while it germinates. Consider specialized turf paint if you want an easier way to keep your lawn green. Of course, the easiest option is to let nature take its course and wait out your brown lawn.
\n\n\n\nWarning: Pre-emergent herbicides can kill young ryegrass. Consider whether you’d prefer to overseed for winter color or deal with weeds.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-20.jpg\")
Photo Credit: groveb / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYour lawn can best utilize fertilizer when it’s actively growing in spring and summer. However, your grass may still benefit from a high-potassium fertilizer in fall. Fertilizers with slow-release nitrogen are better for your grass because they don’t release too many nutrients at once. Since many soils in Florida are high in phosphorus, use a fertilizer with little to no phosphorus.
\n\n\n\nDon’t fertilize your lawn any later than September. It could promote a growth spurt, and new growth will be more sensitive to cold. There’s no need to fertilize dormant grass, either.
\n\n\n\nCan you skip fall fertilization? Sure — just wait until spring. The spring application will help your grass recover from winter and start the growing season strong.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-15.jpg\")
Photo Credit: lutavia / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWarm-season grass stops growing when air and soil temps are below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. While you may need to mow throughout the fall, the slowed growth means you’ll need to rev up the mower less and less frequently.
\n\n\n\nThough it may be tempting to mow low, your grass can better survive stressors if mowed high. Here are the recommended mowing heights for the grass types in Jacksonville:
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Mowing Height |
| Bahiagrass | 3-4 inches |
| Bermudagrass | 1-2 inches |
| Centipedegrass | 1.5-2 inches |
| St. Augustine | 2.5-4 inches |
| Zoysiagrass | 1-2.5 inches |
Only cut off one-third of the grass blade at a time. Removing more can damage grass and make it more susceptible to pests, diseases, and weeds. If you want to change your mowing height, it’s best to adjust it gradually.
\n\n\n\n![\"Small](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/water-sprinkler-e1680265702957.jpg\")
Lawns in Jacksonville generally need watering once or twice a week in the fall, but by winter, you can water as little as once every two to three weeks. Rain will provide for some of your grass’ needs. However, you’ll need to cover the rest with supplemental irrigation. Here are some watering tips:
\n\n\n\nThe University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences recommends irrigation on an as-needed basis to reduce overwatering. Look for the following signs of dehydration:
\n\n\n\n![\"Tools](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Organized-Shed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: woodleywonderworks / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs the end of fall approaches, you may reach for your mower and weed eater less or not at all. If you’re ready to retire your equipment for the year, make sure it’s in good condition before you do so.
\n\n\n\nRemember, you may still need these tools if you decide to overseed your lawn for winter color. It’s still a good idea to complete some maintenance, though.
\n\n\n\nNeither. Grass that’s too short can be vulnerable to diseases and weeds, while extra-long grass can look unruly and provide a haven for pests. Keep your grass in the middle, following the recommended mowing height for each grass type. It’s also best to mow your grass as you usually do for the last mow of the season.
It’s better to aerate your lawn in spring. Why? Though beneficial, aeration is an invasive procedure that your lawn needs time to heal from. Aerating in fall could leave your lawn weak going into winter. Wait until spring to get the best benefits and harm your lawn the least.
No. Winterizer fertilizer is a bad fit for Florida lawns because it often contains too much nitrogen. Instead, look for a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer. Here are some suitable NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) ratios:
• 9-2-24
• 5-2-14
• 8-2-34
• 5-0-22
No. These products are usually too general to meet the specific needs of different homeowners’ lawns. Like many cure-alls, it may not be as effective as advertised. The best way to fertilize and control weeds is to follow your soil test results and create a game plan based on the specific weeds you encounter.
Lawn care checklists are helpful, but they aren’t always fun. After all, you still have to haul out the lawn supplies and put reminders in your calendar for crucial tasks. Wouldn’t you rather spend your weekend trying the new fall flavors at Whit’s Frozen Custard? Consider professional lawn care services if you’d rather keep your free time free.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Ventura Ave House / Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Jacksonville, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/1789c/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.jpg","srcSet":"/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/107df/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.jpg 320w,\n/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/293e9/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.jpg 500w,\n/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/f2cbb/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.jpg 800w,\n/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/1789c/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.jpg 960w,\n/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/c26c2/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/1dd6e/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/67b76/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.webp 320w,\n/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/8df11/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.webp 500w,\n/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/98a65/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.webp 800w,\n/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/1dd6e/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.webp 960w,\n/static/adb4a30d671832a55688f51280285197/3cc96/Jax-FL-7207-Ventura-Ave-House.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Jacksonville, FL","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Fall means less yard work, but you’re not off the hook yet. Go through this fall lawn care checklist for Jacksonville."}}},{"node":{"id":"490d9536-8874-5011-af73-0ed07ae70cb3","slug":"best-grass-types-in-west-palm-beach","path":"/lawn-care/fl/west-palm-beach/best-grass-types-in-west-palm-beach/","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":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"69fcc891-bf24-5292-8b37-302f33aebd17","name":"Grass types","count":11,"path":"/category/grass-types/"},{"id":"e04398b5-de9e-558f-9847-3eb23f7e6cf7","name":"West Palm Beach","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/west-palm-beach/"}],"date":"July 15th, 2020","excerpt":"Lawns in West Palm Beach, Florida, often look picture-book worthy, but that’s largely due to the near-perfect weather and homeowners selecting grass types that thrive in all that warm weather and tolerate both dry and rainy seasons. First, a bit of background on that year-round summer weather and a challenge for lawn care in West […]
\n","content":"\nLawns in West Palm Beach, Florida, often look picture-book worthy, but that’s largely due to the near-perfect weather and homeowners selecting grass types that thrive in all that warm weather and tolerate both dry and rainy seasons.
\n\n\n\nFirst, a bit of background on that year-round summer weather and a challenge for lawn care in West Palm Beach:
— Some of the warmest winters in the country (on average only three nights per year dip below 40 degrees).
— Drought and rainy seasons (just over 2 inches in February to more than 8 in September).
— Nighttime watering restrictions that can slightly complicate caring for your green carpet.
So, how can you grow a great-looking lawn in West Palm Beach? Start with these three best grass types:
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustine grass, with its blue-green color, is the most common turf variety in Florida. Its tolerance for salt that makes St. Augustine grass a good choice for West Palm Beach lawns.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Above-ground stolons.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Above average. In full sunlight or partial shade, St. Augustine will grow quickly.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Extremely high. Unless a drought lasts a long time, St. Augustine grass will stay green and continue to grow.
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Average. A lot of footsteps will damage it.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: St. Augustine grass sometimes produces a lot of thatch, which needs to be managed. St. Augustine is also susceptible to several grass diseases.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Mow to 2 to 4 inches.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass has a high salt tolerance, a preference for heat, and a durability that make it ideal for lawns in West Palm Beach.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Above-ground stolons, underground rhizomes, and seed.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Below average. Even partial shade can harm Bermudagrass if it isn’t quickly returned to full sunlight.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Very high. Without watering, it will go dormant and turn brown. Once watering resumes, it will return to its previous green color.
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Above average. Bermudagrass can handle a high amount of foot traffic without issue.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: It should be periodically inspected for pests and diseases. Excessive water can harm Bermudagrass, so good drainage is essential
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Mow to 1 inch.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is dense and lush under most conditions, so picture it as the perfect lawn for your West Palm Beach home (feel free to picture blue skies overhead and palm trees on the near horizon, too).
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Both above-ground stolons and underground rhizomes.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High. Partial shade will not kill Zoysia.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Average. Zoysia will go dormant faster during drought than Bermudagrass, though thorough watering will make it lush and verdant again.
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Very high. The stiff blades of Zoysia spring back from even large amounts of foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent, small fertilizer applications are better for Zoysiagrass than larger quantities applied less often. Watering of 1 inch per week is ideal.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Zoysia grows fast and will need weekly mowings to keep it at 1 to 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nEvery lawn needs some maintenance, but choosing the right type of grass for the area can make the process easier. West Palm Beach has one of the most temperate climates in the country, so it’s important to pick a grass that likes the warmth as much as you do.
\n\n\n\nNeed help caring for your lawn? Find advice and tips in our Seasonal Guide to Lawn Care and Maintenance.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: Ren Waller / Pixabay
\n","title":"3 Best Grass Types in West Palm Beach","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2.25,"src":"/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/1789c/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/107df/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.jpg 320w,\n/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/293e9/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.jpg 500w,\n/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/f2cbb/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.jpg 800w,\n/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/1789c/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.jpg 960w,\n/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/1d616/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.jpg 1800w","srcWebp":"/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/1dd6e/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/67b76/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.webp 320w,\n/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/8df11/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.webp 500w,\n/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/98a65/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.webp 800w,\n/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/1dd6e/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.webp 960w,\n/static/c894899ec977a5fafa80d03dd9260681/78bd7/west-palm-beach-973283_1920.webp 1800w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"3 Best Grass Types in West Palm Beach | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"What are the three best grass types for your lawn in West Palm Beach, Florida? Look to St. Augustine grass, Bermudagrass, or Zoysiagrass."}}},{"node":{"id":"9dac3550-da7b-5fa7-99b8-f2cfeb13f5f0","slug":"best-native-plants-ocala","path":"/lawn-care/fl/ocala/best-native-plants-ocala/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"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":"af08368f-1b05-5608-9f05-085fc802e26c","name":"Ocala","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/ocala/"}],"date":"April 3rd, 2023","excerpt":"Ocala is a picturesque city full of rolling hills, champion horses, and thoroughbred farms. It is home to the Ocala National Forest with over 430,000 acres of wildlife, lakes, rivers, and botanical diversity, making it easy to see many of the over 4,700 species of plants native to Florida live in their habitats. After seeing […]
\n","content":"\nOcala is a picturesque city full of rolling hills, champion horses, and thoroughbred farms. It is home to the Ocala National Forest with over 430,000 acres of wildlife, lakes, rivers, and botanical diversity, making it easy to see many of the over 4,700 species of plants native to Florida live in their habitats. After seeing these beautiful plants, consider adding some to your Florida lawn for a low-maintenance landscape.
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer many benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nNative plants promote a healthier Florida ecosystem. Check out these 25 native plants for Ocala to create a diverse landscape in your own backyard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"Azalea](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/azaleas-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nAzaleas are recognizable for their pink or white flowers lining the flowerbeds of many homes in North Central Florida. However, those particular plants are not native. They are actually hybrid varieties from Japan, Rhododendron indicum.
\n\n\n\nFlorida has its own native azaleas with smaller flowers. These fragrant flowers bloom in spring and range in color from pink to yellow. They are a slow-growing plant, eventually reaching heights up to 10 feet tall. They are low-maintenance shrubs that love partial shade and filtered sunlight. Add native azaleas to your flower beds and butterfly garden to attract pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; all plant parts are poisonous to humans and animals if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American_Beautyberry_6172956232.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Virginia State Parks staff / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBeautyberry is a sprawling shrub that works well as a border plant with its long branches arching toward the ground. Also known as American mulberry, its bright purple fruits attract birds and other wildlife. It responds well to pruning for a more compact appearance.
\n\n\n\nBeautyberry has small lavender flowers and fuzzy, light green leaves. The shrub blooms from spring to summer before maturing to fruits in September. Beautyberry is drought tolerant and adapts well to the acidic, sandy soils of North Central and South Florida.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers nutrient-rich soil but tolerates acidic, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; prefers a regular watering schedule and moist roots
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/black-eyed-susan-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is a highly recognizable pop of color for Ocala yards. Known for its bright gold petals and dark brown centers, the hardy wildflower is salt and drought-tolerant and makes a great addition to any butterfly garden.
\n\n\n\nTransplanted flowers or sewn seeds grow well in garden beds and containers. Black-eyed Susan flowers grow atop round, clumping leaves. They love full sun and well-drained soil and work well as cut flowers for an outdoor-to-indoor home display.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Biennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable, prefers acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nSome plant species, like milkweed, are vital to healthy Florida landscapes, and over 20 native species call Florida home. Butterfly weed is a native species of milkweed and an attractive flowering plant. It is a nectar source for bees and pollinators and a host plant for caterpillars, including the Monarch butterfly.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed produces bright orange or yellow flowers from summer to fall. The hardy plant loves full sun and tolerates most soils. It is also moderately salt and drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-4 feet tall and less than 1 foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial, though some species are annuals
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers dry, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Semi drought-tolerant; prefers to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: High toxicity; milky sap poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/coontie-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Leonora (Ellie) Enking / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nCoontie is a member of the cycad family. This clumping groundcover is a seed plant resembling a small fern. Also known as Florida arrowroot, the evergreen plant has ancient roots dating back to the time of the dinosaurs. It is an important member of the Florida ecosystem and the only cycad native to North America. Coontie is the larval food source of the rare Atala butterfly.
\n\n\n\nThe round plant has shiny, feather-shaped leaves attached to a thick stem. It works well as clumping groundcover in many areas of your landscape and is drought, salt, and cold-tolerant. It thrives in both sunny and shady conditions.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Clumping groundcover
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; prefers to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; seeds are deadly to humans and animals if ingested, and the entire plant is poisonous
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/coral-honeysuckle-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jo Naylor / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle is a twining evergreen clumping vine found climbing the woods, sandhills, and flatwoods of Central and South Florida. It blooms year-round and does its best blooming in the winter. You can find it crawling trellises, walls, and fences, reaching heights up to 18 feet.
\n\n\n\nTrumpet-shaped red-orange flower clusters grow among dark, shiny leaves, giving way to bright red berries from September to October. Coral honeysuckle attracts hummingbirds, songbirds, and other pollinators with its vibrant flowers and fruit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-18 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen to semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need weekly watering during dry spells)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/coreopsis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrey Zarkikh / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCoreopsis is Florida’s state wildflower and a type of aster. Also known as tickseed, the perennial blooms daisy-shaped, yellow flowers with brown-orange centers from spring to summer.
\n\n\n\nCoreopsis is drought-tolerant and reseeds itself. Its bright blooms attract butterflies and native pollinators. Tickseed makes a great addition to flower beds, containers, and butterfly gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; tolerate partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist, well-drained soil, sand, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Pale](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/elliotts-aster-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Titus Tscharntke / Wikimedia Commons / Public Domain
\n\n\n\nElliot’s aster is one of 331 native aster species in Florida. It is a perennial with a sprawling shape. It is quick-growing and great for filling gaps in flower beds and pollinator gardens. Elliott’s aster is especially attractive to honey bees.
\n\n\n\nThe delicate flower blooms light purple in late summer to early fall. It loves full sun and a range of soils but does not tolerate salt.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8b-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist soil, sand, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderately drought-tolerant; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, edible
\n\n\n\n![\"clumps](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fakahatchee_grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nFakahatchee grass is a clumping plant that makes great ornamental grass for Ocala landscapes. It works well as an accent and border plant. Fakahatchee grass is the food source for the larval Byssus Skipper butterfly. You can find it growing naturally along river banks and swamps in South and Central Florida.
\n\n\n\nThis ornamental grass is easy to grow. It has grass-like foliage and small white, yellow, or pink flowers that bloom in late spring. It grows best in full sun and loves well-drained, moist soil, though it adapts to drier conditions and will survive flooding. Fakahatchee grass responds well to pruning but grows just as well as a low-maintenance plant when left alone.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-4 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen to semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; well-drained, moist acidic or alkaline soil, sand, loam, clay; extended flooding
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderately drought-tolerant; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Mokki / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nFirebush has distinctive bright red flowers that bloom from late spring to the first frost. It is a hardy shrub popular with hummingbirds, butterflies, and other local wildlife. Firebush can reach up to 15 feet tall in North Central Florida but responds well to pruning for contained growth.
\n\n\n\nThe semi-woody shrub works well as a standalone shrub, hedgerow, or border plant. The foliage will die if temperatures hit freezing but will regrow in spring. Firebush adapts to most soil conditions and is heat and drought-tolerant with no natural disease or insect threats.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 9-12
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-12 feet tall and 5-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need weekly watering during dry spells)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; poisonous to humans and animals, though it has a bitter taste most animals avoid
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/florida-anise-tree.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nPurple anise, or the Florida anise tree, is actually an evergreen shrub with small star-shaped purple to red flowers. Its skinny branches droop to the ground, giving the shrub a rounded shape while its flowers bloom in spring with fruits following from late summer to fall. The fruits of the Florida anise tree give off a distinct licorice odor when crushed like its cousin star anise.
\n\n\n\nFlorida anise has a dense growth pattern, making it ideal for windbreaks and hedgerows. They grow well in partial shade but prefer full sun and respond well to pruning. Florida state law protects these low-maintenance evergreen shrubs. They love rich soil and moisture but adapt to most conditions. The purple anise does not tolerate salt water and its foliage is poisonous, making it resistant to insects, deer, and Ocala black bears.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers rich, moist soil, clay, sand, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; foliage is poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/gaillardia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nExperts recently discovered the most popular species of gaillardia, Gaillardia pulchella, also known as blanket flower, is not native to Florida. However, a similar species of gaillardia, Gaillardia aestivalis, or lanceleaf blanket flower, is native to North and Central Florida, making it an excellent choice for your Ocala landscape.
\n\n\n\nPart of the daisy family, lanceleaf blanket flower is a quick-growing perennial with showy yellow compound blooms appearing from late spring into fall. This clumping plant attracts butterflies and pollinators. Unfortunately, it is short-lived.
\n\n\n\nGaillardia aestivalis prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and self sows. This native wildflower makes a great addition to borders, rock gardens, small spaces, containers, and butterfly gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or clumping groundcover
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and up to 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Short-lived perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; well-drained acidic or alkaline soil, sand, rock, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/muhly-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nMuhly grass is one of the most low-maintenance and easy-to-grow options for Ocala landscapes. This ornamental clumping grass lines Florida flatwoods, uplands, and highways, producing fluffy pink flower stalks every fall.
\n\n\n\nMuhly grass thrives in the sun and is drought-tolerant. The salt-tolerant grass is perfect for flower beds, borders, and low-maintenance mass plantings.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-5 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; acidic or alkaline soil, sand, loam, clay; extended flooding
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Oakleaf](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/oakleaf-hydrangea-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Anne Norman / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nOakleaf hydrangea is a rare shade-loving shrub found in the understory of large trees like Florida live oaks. It is coarse-textured with large, cone-shaped flower clusters that bloom for months every summer and change colors from white to light pink and purple.
\n\n\n\nThe fast-growing deciduous shrub gets its name from its dark green, oak-shaped leaves that turn red, gold, or purple in the fall. Oakleaf hydrangea reaches heights up to 10 feet tall and thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. Smaller cultivars like “Pee Wee” are available for homeowners with limited space.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5b-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-10 feet high and 6-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full shade to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers, fertile, well-drained soil; adapts to most soil conditions, including moist, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderately drought-tolerant; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; all plant parts are poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nature-plant-flower-purple-bloom-summer-543725-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nPassion flower, or maypop, is a flowering vine and butterfly host plant. It is fast-growing, and hardy with dense foliage that provides natural cover for wildlife. Passion flower’s large lavender blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The vine produces edible green fruits, though they are not related to passion fruit and do not taste good.
\n\n\n\nThe perennial vine loves full sun and spreads to occupy a trellis, fence, or archway. Passion flower is pest-resistant and tolerates drought conditions. However, the hardy plant is susceptible to nematode damage in North Central Florida.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 30 feet; spreads to occupy the trellis or fence
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water twice weekly during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; safe for humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Closeup](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/powderpuff-mimosa-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nPowderpuff mimosa is a low-growing, flowering groundcover. Also known as sunshine mimosa, this flowering plant is an important host plant for butterfly larvae. It blooms puffy, pink, ball-shaped flowers from spring through fall among bright-green, fern-shaped leaves.
\n\n\n\nPowderpuff mimosa withstands light traffic and spreads quickly. However, it is not an aggressive plant and works well with turfgrass and in containers alongside other plants. It helps control landscape erosion, is drought tolerant with deep roots, and grows well in full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ornamental flowering groundcover
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8b-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: Spreading; up to 1 foot tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; acidic or alkaline soil, sand, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Saw](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/saw-palmetto-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michael Rivera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSaw palmetto is easily recognizable, growing wild throughout Florida. It is a slow-growing, clumping palm that only reaches heights of 5 to 10 feet. Saw palmetto has sprawling, fan-shaped fronds, and tall white flowers bloom on stalks in the spring followed by yellow berries from August to October.
\n\n\n\nThe palm’s berries are an important food source for local wildlife, and some people believe the extract helps cure cancer though there is no scientific evidence. The plant’s popularity as an alternative medicine has led officials to place a harvesting permit requirement on the plant.
\n\n\n\nSaw Palmetto is the host plant for the Palmetto Skipper and Monk butterflies’ larvae. Saw palmetto grows best in full sun and makes a great addition to mixed borders, privacy hedges, and foundation plants. It is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Palm shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 5-10 feet tall and 4-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, moist soils or seasonally water-logged areas
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need weekly watering during dry spells)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/scarlet-sage-salvia-close-up.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nScarlet salvia is an herbaceous perennial with many names, including blood sage, scarlet sage, and tropical sage. It has tubular red flowers that bloom from spring through fall. The attractive plant reaches up to 4 feet tall and attracts Ocala wildlife, hummingbirds, and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nScarlet salvia is drought and salt-tolerant. The adaptable plant responds well to pruning and grows well in flower beds, containers, and butterfly gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous plant
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; acidic or alkaline soil, sand, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/tree-plant-fruit-leaf-flower-food-829906-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nYou can find seagrape growing along Florida’s coasts. It is an endangered and protected shrub that is salt-tolerant. The small tree produces clusters of edible red fruit resembling grapes, clusters of cream-colored flowers, and bright green, round foliage with red veins.
\n\n\n\nLeft unattended, seagrape will grow to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide but responds well to pruning. These plants work well as hedges, privacy screens, natural windbreaks, and shade trees with attractive, twisted trunks. Seagrape grows well in full or partial sun and sandy, acidic soils. It is very low maintenance except for the occasional pruning.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree or shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 10a-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 35-50 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible fruits
\n\n\n\n![\"Long](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/southern-live-oak-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nSouthern live oak is a picturesque shade tree straight out of a famous novel. Its branches sprawl up to 60 feet high and 100 feet wide, while its trunk grows up to 6 feet in diameter. These impressive trees live for hundreds of years when planted with enough room to thrive.
\n\n\n\nSouthern live oaks love well-drained, moist soil. With regular pruning while young, these large trees become incredibly wind-resistant, making them an excellent addition to a hurricane-ready landscape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 60 feet tall and 100 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Young southern live oaks might need watering once a month except during winter when rainfall provides enough water; mature trees are very drought-tolerant and most likely won’t need any watering outside of rainfall
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Acorns and leaves are toxic to pets and cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested; surface roots can damage nearby sidewalks, driveways, or other pavement
\n\n\n\n![\"Magnolia](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/800px-Magnolia_grandiflora_Piazzo.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Syrio / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSouthern magnolias have shiny, evergreen leaves and creamy white flowers up to a foot in diameter. These large trees grow up to 90 feet tall and produce a lemon-like fragrance. They make a great addition to privacy screens and boundary establishments and respond well to pruning and branch training.
\n\n\n\nSouthern magnolias thrive in the sandy Ocala soils, preferring well-drained, moist, acidic soils. They grow in full sun to partial shade. It is important to note that these large trees grow best as perimeter plants as they shed leaves and seedpods every spring.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 90 feet tall and 50 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Young southern magnolias need watering one to two times weekly for the first six months; mature trees are drought tolerant and only need watering during extreme drought
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards; surface roots can damage nearby sidewalks, driveways, or other pavement
\n\n\n\n![\"Southern](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/southern-wax-myrtle-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: BotBln / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nSouthern wax myrtle is a small tree or large shrub that makes a great hedgerow or windscreen around Ocala properties. It is salt-tolerant and multi-stemmed with a round canopy. Southern wax myrtles are quick-growing and respond well to pruning and branch training.
\n\n\n\nThese trees produce fragrant green flowers, glossy leaves, and gray bark. Wax myrtles adapt to a range of soils, including the acidic, sandy soils of Florida, and grow well in full sun to full shade.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree or shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7b-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 25 feet tall, but often kept shorter than 12 feet in landscapes; up to 25 feet wide at the crown
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun or partial shade but tolerates full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water once every 10-14 days in the absence of rain
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/flower-plant-nature-flora-blossom-botany-1370586-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nOcala’s subtropical climate creates the perfect environment for crawling vines. Star jasmine, also known as jessamine and evening trumpet flower, is a fragrant flowering vine with clusters of tiny white flowers that bloom in early spring and summer, attracting pollinators to your yard. It is moderately salt-tolerant, drought-resistant, and shade-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nStar jasmine is fast-growing and spreads to occupy any available space. It works well as groundcover but requires frequent pruning. The flowering vine is best planted near lampposts, trellises, arbors, or chain-link fences, and will not climb masonry walls or wooden fences without supports.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine or spreading groundcover
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 9-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Small](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/walters-viburnum-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michael Rivera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWalter’s viburnum is another small tree that works well in Ocala landscapes as a large shrub. It has small white flowers that attract butterflies and fruits that ripen in fall, attracting birds and other wildlife. Walter’s viburnum reaches heights up to 20 feet tall but responds well to pruning and training, making it a great option for hedgerows and privacy screens.
\n\n\n\nThe flowering tree has dense foliage that acts as a nesting spot for songbirds, and it is the host plant for the Azure butterfly. It is drought tolerant and prefers full sun to partial shade. These plants do not tolerate salt and need moist, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree or shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-20 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water twice weekly
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; safe for humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"sharp](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/yucca-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nYucca plants are a group of Florida shrubs that love full sun and the fast-draining, sandy soils found in Ocala. They are extremely drought and heat-tolerant. Yucca plants grow well in flower beds, and their spiky foliage makes a great standalone specimen plant.
\n\n\n\nThere are three native Yucca species in Florida:
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-10 feet tall and 2-6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial; some species are annuals
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate heavy clay soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water every 10 days
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Moderate toxicity; poisonous to humans and animals when consumed raw; edible when cooked
\n\n\n\nNot all native plants grow well in your Ocala yard and each has their own needs. It is important to consider your landscape’s needs, including soil type, irrigation access, and sun and shade conditions, and select plants suitable for your unique microclimate.
\n\n\n\nOcala sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a, indicating the coldest annual temperature is between 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Florida-native plants are cold-hardy to the minimum temperature in Ocala’s hardiness zone. Keep your zone in mind when selecting non-native plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nThanks to Ocala’s year-round subtropical climate, you can plant anytime you want. Plants go through their active growing season in spring and summer. Experts agree the best time to head into your garden is from mid-March to the beginning of April.
Early morning is the best time to water your plants. Foliage needs time to dry before nightfall, and wet foliage can lead to disease and rot. Winds are calmer and temperatures are lower in the early morning, so there is less risk of water loss from evaporation or sun scorching.
Native plants support beneficial insects like butterflies, bees, and birds as well as Florida’s ecosystem. Many are salt and drought-tolerant and adapted to the acidic, sandy soil found in most North Central Florida yards, making them easier to grow.
Create your own home forest complete with fragrant blooms, hanging vines, and warm-season turfgrass to invite butterflies and songbirds into your yard by introducing native plants. Be sure to source your plants ethically from reputable nurseries.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these local Ocala nurseries:
\n\n\n\nMany native plants are drought and wind-tolerant, standing up to dry summers and high winds. Be sure to create a landscape maintenance plant to care for your new native plants and turfgrass year-round. Check out our spring lawn care tips to get you started.
\n\n\n\nIf you need help deciding which native plants to add to your landscape, let Wikilawn connect you with a local Ocala landscaping pro.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Jasmine flower / Wallpaperflare
\n","title":"25 Best Native Plants for Ocala, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/1789c/Star-jasmine-plant.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/107df/Star-jasmine-plant.jpg 320w,\n/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/293e9/Star-jasmine-plant.jpg 500w,\n/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/f2cbb/Star-jasmine-plant.jpg 800w,\n/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/1789c/Star-jasmine-plant.jpg 960w,\n/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/c26c2/Star-jasmine-plant.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/1dd6e/Star-jasmine-plant.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/67b76/Star-jasmine-plant.webp 320w,\n/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/8df11/Star-jasmine-plant.webp 500w,\n/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/98a65/Star-jasmine-plant.webp 800w,\n/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/1dd6e/Star-jasmine-plant.webp 960w,\n/static/c4534e0d829cc3104fd29e9980b4eb55/3cc96/Star-jasmine-plant.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"25 Best Native Plants for Ocala, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Check out these Florida native plants for Ocala to find heat and drought-tolerant plants that thrive in the sun and sandy soil."}}},{"node":{"id":"71f6e831-21fb-5c9a-923c-44553c6f7346","slug":"worst-lawn-weeds-jacksonville","path":"/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/worst-lawn-weeds-jacksonville/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"075cc120-3dd3-51e4-aead-643f50a8453e","name":"Jacksonville","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"August 6th, 2019","excerpt":"Finding any weed in your Jacksonville lawn can be frustrating, but some are easy to control with common lawn sprays. But, there are a few weeds that require a bit more work.
\n","content":"\nPicture this: You’ve gone outside to enjoy a sunny Jacksonville day when you notice something odd on your lawn. It sure doesn’t look like the rest of your grass, and upon closer inspection, you may notice dying turf near it. You’ve stumbled upon a weed, but what should you do about it?
\n\n\n\nThe best way to deal with these leafy intruders is to identify them so you can create an appropriate game plan. Let’s learn about some of the worst Jacksonville weeds so you can grab the right tools and get your lawn back to normal.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nWeeds compete for the water, nutrients, and sun your turfgrass needs. Left unaddressed, they can spread over your lawn, garden, and neighboring properties.
\n\n\n\nBesides the competition for resources, weeds are usually a sign of something wrong. Overwatering is one of the most common problems that encourage weed growth. However, it also may be that your turf isn’t getting the nutrients it needs or is mowed too low to reach a healthy density.
\n\n\n\nYou may feel torn about what weed control method to try first. When choosing between manual and chemical control, you’ll need to consider time, effectiveness, and environmental concerns.
\n\n\n\nRemoving weeds by hand is the most eco-friendly method. However, it can take a lot of time, especially if you have more than a few weeds. You must pull up all plant parts to effectively remove weeds by hand. Many weeds can grow back from roots or tubers left in the ground.
\n\n\n\nHere are some tips to keep in mind:
\n\n\n\nHerbicides are specially-formulated products designed to eliminate weeds.
\n\n\n\nSelective herbicides target specific plants, such as grassy or broadleaf weeds. On the other hand, non-selective herbicides kill plants more indiscriminately.
\n\n\n\nAlways read herbicide labels carefully to avoid hurting you, your lawn, or your pets.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis weed can be tricky to spot, but you’ll see it everywhere once you recognize it. It resembles turfgrass but is often a lighter green with broader leaves. Crabgrass gravitates toward bare patches in your lawn. It germinates in spring and dies in fall, leaving brown patches and making your lawn’s color uneven.
\n\n\n\nCrabgrass can show up on any lawn. The best way to keep it at bay is to choose an appropriate grass type for Jacksonville. Keep your lawn thick and healthy with proper maintenance, so there are no bare spots for crabgrass to invade. If prevention doesn’t work, apply pre-emergent herbicides in early March before temperatures are consistently above 65 to 70 degrees to avoid harming your turfgrass.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefers dry soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicides
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Dollarweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ranjith-chemmad / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nA rose by any other name would smell just as sweet, but this weed is just as annoying whether it’s called dollarweed or pennywort. The coin-themed names come from the size and round shape of the leaves. Dollarweed is low to the ground and spreads with seeds, rhizomes, and the occasional tuber. Its small white flowers can bloom year-round.
\n\n\n\nDollarweed can thrive in many soil types, with or without sun, but prefers moist soil. To discourage this weed, avoid overwatering your lawn and improve drainage. Once you spot them, pull them out by hand or use selective or non-selective herbicides. Ensure you pull out all the white rhizomes, or it might make a comeback.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4A-10A
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Tolerates sandy, loam, or clay soils with acidic to neutral pH
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand-pulling, pre-emergent herbicides, or post-emergent herbicides
\n\n\n\n![\"honeybee](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Dandelion.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nDandelions are some of the most iconic weeds. They’re easy to spot once they have their signature yellow flowers or fluffy white seedheads. Your inner child may want to blow those seeds away and make a wish, but resist the temptation — you’d only be spreading them around your yard and neighborhood. These plants are best dealt with before they produce seeds.
\n\n\n\nThe best way to prevent dandelions is to keep your turf dense and healthy, so there’s no room for them. Hand pulling isn’t a very effective removal method because it has deep roots, but it may be feasible in small yards.
\n\n\n\nApply pre-emergent herbicides before dandelions germinate when soil temperatures are below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Spot treat with broadleaf herbicides but avoid triclopyr because it can harm the warm-season turfgrasses in Jacksonville.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf perennial herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Tolerates most soils
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; dandelions are edible unless you have a latex allergy
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Broadleaf herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Goosegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso called wiregrass or crowfootgrass, goosegrass gets its name from finger-like spikes that pop out from the same spot when it flowers. Before it reaches that point, it will be low-growing in matted, grass-like clumps with a white leaf sheath at the base. Because of its growth pattern, it survives low mowing remarkably well.
\n\n\n\nGoosegrass grows so aggressively in thin lawns it might give you goosebumps. Its favorite soils are compact and wet, so aeration may help make your yard less welcoming. Need to break out the herbicides? You can use pre- or post-emergent herbicides with ingredients like dithiopyr, oryzalin, pendimethalin, or prodiamine.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Summer annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefers compact, wet soils
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre- or post-emergent herbicides
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chamberbitter.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Prenn / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThis invasive plant will leave you bitter if it takes over your Jacksonville lawn. Chamberbitter has small, round leaves on long stems with bursting pods that launch seeds everywhere. It looks similar to the powderpuff mimosa, a native groundcover in Florida. Two kinds are found in the Sunshine State – long-stalked chamberbitter (Phyllanthus tenellus) and the smaller gripeweed (Phyllanthus urinaria).
\n\n\n\nGripeweed loves moist, overwatered soils and can survive even when mowed 2 inches high. This weed germinates from early summer to early fall. You can pull out these weeds by hand, but don’t shake the roots before tossing them in the trash — you could accidentally spread their seeds.
\n\n\n\nYoung chamberbitter can be controlled by pre- or post-emergent herbicide, but older, woody specimens may need two or three applications to die back. Apply pre-emergent applications in April to get ahead of germination and seed spreading. Be cautious applying post-emergent herbicides to centipedegrass and St. Augustinegrass, since they also may be harmed.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Summer annual broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8A-10A
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefers warm soils
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicides work best, but you also can use post-emergent or hand-pulling
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sedges.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Tann / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nSedges may look like grass, but you can identify these weeds by the angular shape of their stems. Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus escuelentus) and purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus) can be identified by their small flowers when in bloom. Summer is the season they’re at their peak, but they can grow year-round in temperate Florida.
\n\n\n\nSedges attack lawns without well-established root systems. Avoid overwatering and excessive foot traffic to address the root problem, then try removal. Nutsedges spread with tubers on their roots, making them difficult to remove by hand. Check periodically to see if they grow back. You may need to repeatedly treat this weed with herbicides.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8A-10B for yellow nutsedge and 3A-10B for purple nutsedge
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Tolerates most types, but prefers moist soils
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand-pulling and herbicides
\n\n\n\nDandelion weeders are a popular tool for weed removal in lawns and gardens. You also can use garden hoes.
While you can kill individual weeds, the war with weeds will never end. A gust of wind or an animal passing through could bring new weed seeds with them. However, preventative methods like pre-emergent herbicides and proper lawn maintenance give you the best chance of avoiding sprouted, visible weeds.
It depends on what your lawn goals are. If you want a picturesque lawn, no. Weeds will always compete with your grass and create an inconsistent appearance, if not patches and brown spots.
However, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. A weed is only a weed if it’s unwanted or threatens something desirable. Several weeds are beneficial to Florida’s ecosystem. Thus, some homeowners choose to have a wild, less manicured lawn to be eco-friendly.
If this is the route you want to go, research your options thoroughly. Simply letting your lawn grow unattended isn’t necessarily going to create a natural utopia. You will likely need to actively cultivate some native plants and eliminate any invasive species that try to return. Your yard will become lower-maintenance once fully established.
You’ll need a vigilant eye and a dedicated lawn care regime to keep your lawn weed-free. If you’d rather not give up your weekend outing to Riverside Park, consider hiring a Jacksonville lawn care professional to do the dirty work. A pro can identify weeds quickly and has the best products on the market to eliminate them for good.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Pixabay
\n","title":"6 Worst Lawn Weeds in Jacksonville (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/1789c/Lawn-weed.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/107df/Lawn-weed.jpg 320w,\n/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/293e9/Lawn-weed.jpg 500w,\n/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/f2cbb/Lawn-weed.jpg 800w,\n/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/1789c/Lawn-weed.jpg 960w,\n/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/c26c2/Lawn-weed.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/1dd6e/Lawn-weed.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/67b76/Lawn-weed.webp 320w,\n/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/8df11/Lawn-weed.webp 500w,\n/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/98a65/Lawn-weed.webp 800w,\n/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/1dd6e/Lawn-weed.webp 960w,\n/static/5f18754c5fd8fe6cb36b2ede1c25c39f/3cc96/Lawn-weed.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Worst Lawn Weeds in Jacksonville (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Your lawn shouldn’t have to compete with leafy intruders. Learn to identify and rid your turf of the worst weeds in Jacksonville."}}},{"node":{"id":"bd447872-64e4-5c61-a511-b73684e4f99b","slug":"best-grass-types-florida","path":"/lawn-care/fl/best-grass-types-florida/","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":"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/"}],"date":"May 8th, 2023","excerpt":"The Sunshine State is well-known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and unique wildlife. But when it comes to landscaping, choosing the right type of grass is key to maintaining a lush and healthy lawn in Florida’s subtropical climate. You should look for grass types with good heat tolerance and resistance to pests and diseases, […]
\n","content":"\nThe Sunshine State is well-known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and unique wildlife. But when it comes to landscaping, choosing the right type of grass is key to maintaining a lush and healthy lawn in Florida’s subtropical climate.
\n\n\n\nYou should look for grass types with good heat tolerance and resistance to pests and diseases, as they are necessary to survive this region’s hot and humid summers and mild winters. Fortunately, several grass types thrive in this tropical state. Let’s explore the 7 best grass types for Florida, so you can keep your lawn looking green and healthy year-round.
\n\n\n\nUnderstanding each grass variety’s distinct growth patterns and requirements is essential in determining the best fit for your lawn. Categorizing grass types into two general groups based on their temperature preferences simplifies the selection process and makes it easier to make an informed decision.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses: Growing actively when the temperatures are between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, these grasses thrive during summer. Some examples of warm-season grasses that can tolerate drought and high temperatures include bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass. For the best results, you should plant these grasses in late spring or early summer.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses: These grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue, thrive in colder temperatures that range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. As such, they are best suited for spring and fall when temperatures are milder. But since they prefer winter weather, these grass types may struggle during the hot summer months.
\n\n\n\nSelecting the ideal grass type based on your lawn’s unique qualities and the prevailing weather conditions is crucial in ensuring a healthy and attractive lawn year-round. In the subtropical climate of Florida, where summers are hot and humid, warm-season grasses are the best choice.
\n\n\n\nChoosing the perfect grass variety is the first step in turning your backyard into a verdant paradise. In Florida, where warm-season grasses thrive, you have plenty of options to choose from, including:
\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\nA great option for lawns in Central and South Florida, bahiagrass thrives in the warmer temperatures of these regions. It also can be planted in North Florida, but it may not be as cold-tolerant as some other grass varieties, and homeowners in this region may need to take extra precautions during colder months.
\n\n\n\nThis drought-tolerant grass requires little water, making it an ideal choice for areas with limited rainfall. Its ability to establish deep roots helps it tolerate drought conditions and stay green during periods of low rainfall. Note, though, that extended periods of dry spells may cause it to become dormant.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low – it needs full sun to grow well
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – mow every week or two to control its seed heads (you may have to mow more often during summer)
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low resistance – can be susceptible to ergot diseases and dollar spot (especially the Pensacola cultivar)
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate resistance – mostly prone to mole crickets
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers sandy loam but grows in most types of soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Growing grass from seeds typically takes more time and effort to establish compared to using sod. While other methods, such as sprigging and plugging, may be viable alternatives, they may potentially increase the risk of weed infestation.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bidgee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nKnown for its high wear tolerance, bermudagrass is a popular choice for sports fields, golf courses, and parks throughout the state. It is best suited for South and Central Florida, as well as the coastal areas of Northern Florida, where the warm and humid weather conditions are ideal for its growth.
\n\n\n\nSince this warm-season grass is drought-tolerant, it’s perfect for homeowners that experience frequent water restrictions. And with its rapid growth rate, bermudagrass can help you achieve a quick establishment of your lawn. You can plant it using sod, seed, or sprigs, and it will tolerate a wide range of soil types.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low – some cultivars need more direct sun exposure than others
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High – extended periods of drought may cause it to turn brown and enter dormancy
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – it requires mowing, watering, and fertilization more often
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches – during periods of extreme heat or drought, you’ll have to raise the mowing height to retain moisture
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – may be prone to dollar spot, brown patch, spring dead spot, and leaf spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – can be susceptible to mole crickets, armyworms, hunting billbugs, and white grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers loam soil but can grow in most types of soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: For optimal results, reseed bermudagrass during the late spring or early summer, when temperatures range from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Consistent watering is key to promoting germination, which usually takes 10 to 14 days. Keep the newly seeded area moist but not overly saturated to prevent the seeds from washing away or developing mold.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Carpet_Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sugeesh / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAlso called Louisianagrass, this warm-season turfgrass is well-suited to the humid conditions of the Sunshine State. Native to the Gulf Coast region, carpetgrass is best suited for use in the central and southern parts of Florida, where temperatures are warmer and rainfall is abundant. It’s not the best choice for North Florida lawns, as temperatures can drop below its preferred range during winter.
\n\n\n\nWith its impressive tolerance to waterlogging, carpetgrass is an ideal option for Florida lawns that experience high rainfall and flooding. But since it requires consistent moisture, you must water it regularly, especially during drought.
\n\n\n\nEven with its shallow root system, carpetgrass is still more drought-tolerant than other grass types. It’s typically used in areas that receive light to moderate foot traffic, such as residential lawns and golf courses. This shade-tolerant grass can grow in areas with partial shade, making it ideal for areas with trees or other obstructions that block sunlight.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – although it’s not as shade-tolerant as St. Augustinegrass
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate – its shallow roots will hinder its survival during extreme droughts
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – you’ll need to mow its tall seed heads every week
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low resistance – can be prone to large patch
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – mostly susceptible to white grubs and nematodes
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, moist (but not muddy), infertile, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: For the seeds to germinate, reseed this warm-season grass in late spring to early summer. Before spreading the seeds, loosen the soil in the area to at least six inches deep.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipedegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nAnother warm-season grass that thrives in Florida’s climate, centipedegrass is best suited for lawns in South and Central Florida, where the temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year. It has a natural green color and a fine, soft texture, giving it a lush appearance.
\n\n\n\nThis slow-growing grass requires minimal mowing, watering, and fertilization. And since it’s tolerant of drought and shade, centipedegrass can withstand Florida’s unpredictable weather. While it may not be as tolerant of traffic as other grass types, it’s still a popular choice for residential lawns and ornamental gardens due to its low-maintenance requirements.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – prefers full sun but can still grow in partial shade with just six hours of sun exposure
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low to moderate – prolonged periods of dry spells can cause it to go dormant
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5-2 inches – for lawns in shaded areas, increase the mower height by half an inch
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – mostly susceptible to iron chlorosis and centipedegrass decline
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – can be prone to spittlebugs, sod webworms, mole crickets, ground pearl insects, and nematodes
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-drained, fertile, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: With its relatively low maintenance requirements and slow growth rate, this grass variety doesn’t need reseeding as often as the other grass types. But you’ll know it’s time to reseed when you see bare and thinning spots on your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Seashore-Paspalum-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nThis warm-season grass is known for its salt tolerance and ability to thrive in coastal areas. Commonly used in South Florida, seashore paspalum also can be grown in other parts of the state. It’s ideal for areas that experience frequent saltwater intrusions, such as coastal golf courses and beachfront properties.
\n\n\n\nIts unique blue-green color and fine texture make it a popular choice for high-end landscapes. In fact, it can maintain its color and texture even in harsh conditions. It grows best in temperatures between 75 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit and requires regular watering to keep it looking its best. While seashore paspalum can tolerate saltwater, it still requires well-draining soil and proper irrigation.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Very low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Very low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High – needs frequent mowing, watering, and fertilization
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High resistance – but it can be susceptible to pythium blight, take-all root rot, and Helminthosporium disease
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High resistance – but may be affected by mole crickets, sod webworms, and fall armyworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-8
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers well-drained soil but can still thrive in most types of soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This delicate grass type doesn’t tolerate cold weather very well. Applying too much fertilizer can cause thatch buildup, which can prevent it from getting enough water and nutrients. Also, avoid using herbicides that are not specifically labeled for seashore paspalum.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Palmetto-St.-Augustine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnother popular warm-season grass, St. Augustinegrass thrives in the subtropical climate of Florida. Due to its tolerance to salt and high humidity levels, this grass is well-suited for the coastal areas of Central and South Florida. It also performs well in the environmental conditions of North Florida.
\n\n\n\nWith a medium to dark green color and a coarse texture, St. Augustinegrass has a dense growth pattern that can help prevent weed growth. Its shade tolerance is another desirable trait, making it ideal for areas with partial shade.
\n\n\n\nIn terms of care, this grass type requires regular watering and fertilization. It’s also prone to thatch buildup, which can be managed through consistent mowing and aeration. Note that St. Augustinegrass is not tolerant of cold weather and can be damaged by frost.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – some cultivars can tolerate shade more than others
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – it needs to be mowed often and requires moderate watering and fertilization
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow tall in shade, 3-4 inches for standard cultivars, and 2.5-3 inches for dwarf cultivars)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate resistance – common diseases include gray leaf spot, take-all root rot, and large patch
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – can be prone to grubs, grass loopers, mole crickets, armyworms, webworms, chinch bugs, and cutworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers fertile, moist (not muddy) soil but can still grow in most types of soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Not being able to produce viable seeds, St. Augustinegrass usually reproduces through other methods. This grass type is commonly propagated by transplanting sods, sprigs, or plugs to establish a new lawn or fill in bare spots.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/solar-panels-working-2-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: menikwidyowatis’s Images / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nKnown for its fine blades, dense growth pattern, and beautiful emerald-green color, Zoysiagrass is perfect for lawns, parks, and golf courses. While it can be found in all regions of Florida, it is most commonly used in South and Central Florida due to its tolerance to the hotter and drier conditions found in these areas.
\n\n\n\nThis grass variety’s ability to withstand drought and salty conditions makes it an excellent option for coastal areas, where saltwater intrusion can damage other types of grass. Plus, its strong root system allows it to absorb water and nutrients efficiently, helping it survive periods of low rainfall.
\n\n\n\nWhile Zoysiagrass requires less fertilizer and water than other grass types, its slow growth rate can make it difficult to establish a new lawn. It’s best to plant this grass in the spring or early summer to promote growth. And with its moderate resistance to pests and diseases, you’ll have a lesser need for chemical treatments.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes and stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate – it requires more direct sun exposure
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High – but you’ll have to give it supplemental watering during extended periods of drought
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – can be susceptible to spring dead spot, fairy wings, rust, curvularia, dollar spot, root decline, brown patch, leaf spot, and powdery mildew
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate resistance – common pests include chinch bugs, sod webworms, hunting billbugs, armyworms, mole crickets, grubs, and nematodes
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil but can still grow in most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Despite its deep root system and ability to tolerate compacted soil, Zoysiagrass may not thrive as much in these conditions as it would in well-aerated soil.
\n\n\n\nWith cooler winters and fewer hurricanes, North Florida has a more temperate climate than the rest of Florida. Bordered by Alabama and Georgia, the northernmost region of Florida is known for its natural beauty, including the Gulf Coast beaches in the Florida Panhandle, the Apalachicola National Forest, and the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge.
\n\n\n\nBeing surrounded by beautiful scenery, you’ll want to make your lawn look just as lovely. And to choose the best grass that will thrive in the unique climate and soil of your region, you need to consider numerous factors, including:
\n\n\n\nGrasses with good cold tolerance are necessary to survive occasional winter freezes, but you’ll also want them to withstand the heat and humidity of the summer months. Some of the best grass types for North Florida include:
\n\n\n\nThe best time to plant grass in this region is during the warm and wet season, typically between April and June. This allows the grass to establish roots and grow before the cooler and drier winter season arrives.
\n\n\n\nCentral Florida is popular for its theme parks, including Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World Resort, as well as its numerous lakes and natural springs. This region, where major cities like Orlando, Tampa, and Lakeland are located, has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers.
\n\n\n\nChoosing the best grass for your Central Florida lawn shouldn’t be difficult as long as you know which grass types thrive in this region. The following factors can help you choose the best turfgrass for your yard:
\n\n\n\nYou should look for grass types with good heat tolerance and resistance to pests and diseases, as they are necessary to survive this region’s hot and humid conditions. The following grasses can withstand the heat and humidity of the summer months and survive mild winters:
\n\n\n\nWhile these grass types can tolerate the wet and dry conditions of Central Florida, it’s best to plant them between May and September to give them enough time to grow and establish roots before the cold sets in.
\n\n\n\nThe most heavily populated and culturally diverse region in the state, South Florida encompasses major cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and West Palm Beach. It’s also home to the Everglades, a vast subtropical wetland ecosystem, and the Florida Keys off the southern coast of Florida. The climate here is hot and humid year-round, with occasional hurricanes during summer and fall.
\n\n\n\nTo choose the best grass for your South Florida lawn, you need to consider the environmental conditions of this tropical region, including:
\n\n\n\nThe following drought-tolerant grasses can thrive in the heat and humidity of South Florida summers:
\n\n\n\nRemember to plant grasses between May and September when the weather is warm. Additionally, proper lawn care practices like regular fertilization, mowing, and irrigation can help keep your South Florida lawn healthy and beautiful.
\n\n\n\nIf your Florida property is prone to flooding, choosing the right grass type can make a significant difference in maintaining a beautiful lawn. St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass may not be the best options since they are not tolerant of standing water.
Instead, consider a grass variety that can tolerate and survive standing water for a short period. One option is carpetgrass, which has a deep root system that makes it resilient even in wet soils. It can endure even the most challenging water conditions, making it perfect for Florida lawns that face seasonal hurricanes and flooding. Centipedegrass is also a suitable option for its tolerance to flooding and adaptability to various soil types.
The amount of water your turfgrass needs depends on various factors, such as the grass type, soil type, weather conditions, and time of year. As a general rule, most Florida lawns require around 1 inch of water per week. During the hot summer months, your lawn may need more frequent watering, while during the cooler months, it may require less.
Water your lawn for longer periods but less frequently. Watering for short periods every day can lead to shallow root growth, and the grass will not be as resilient during dry spells.
Watering at the right time can help conserve water, reduce the risk of fungal diseases, and ensure your grass receives the water it needs to stay healthy.
The best time to water your lawn in Florida is early in the morning, preferably before 10 a.m. This time is ideal because the temperature is cooler, the wind is usually calmer, and the grass has plenty of time to dry before the hotter part of the day. Watering later in the day can lead to excessive water loss due to evaporation, which means your grass won’t be receiving the full benefits of the water.
You should avoid watering your lawn in the afternoon or evening, as this can increase the risk of fungal diseases. Watering during these times can also lead to prolonged periods of wet grass, which can attract pests and cause damage to your lawn.
By integrating native plants into your garden, you can take a step toward conserving natural resources while also creating an eye-catching landscape. Utilizing these plants eliminates the need for excess watering, fertilization, and pest control measures since they have already adapted to Florida’s climate and soil conditions and require little to no maintenance.
Some of the best native plants for Florida include the American beautyberry, coontie, and goldenrod. These plants not only add beauty to your garden, but they also serve as a natural habitat for local wildlife, such as butterflies and birds. Plus, they can help promote biodiversity in the area by attracting a range of beneficial insects and pollinators.
Florida’s unique climate and environmental conditions make it essential to select the right grass type for a healthy and vibrant lawn year-round. From bahiagrass to Zoysiagrass, these seven grass types offer unique features and benefits, making them the best options for Florida homeowners.
\n\n\n\nWith their adaptability to Florida’s warm temperatures and humidity, these grass types can thrive even in challenging conditions, such as drought, flooding, and soil compaction, while contributing to the beauty and biodiversity of the Sunshine State’s unique ecosystem.
Whether you need help in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Tampa, Orlando, Miami, Pensacola, or another city in the Sunshine State, our lawn care professionals can help you achieve a lush and resilient lawn.
Main Image Credit: Boca Grande, Florida / Trish Hartmann / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
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\n","content":"\nLiving on the Gulf Coast has nice benefits, like being able to visit the beach anytime you feel like it for a fun day of swimming and building sandcastles. The only problem is that living near the ocean leaves homes vulnerable to hurricane damage from flooding and high winds.
\n\n\n\nYou can never have a 100% guarantee that your home will not suffer storm damage, but there are some hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for Tampa that will help protect your property.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n13 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tampa
\n\n\n\nProtect Your Tampa Home Before a Hurricane Strikes
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"group](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wind-tolerant-trees.jpg\")
Photo Credit: denisbin / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to a hurricane-resistant landscape, it’s best to go native. For your landscaping, pick Floridia-friendly plants that are acclimated to the local climate and weather.
\n\n\n\nHurricane-resistant trees with sturdy trunks and deep-reaching roots are usually the best kind of trees to stand up to strong winds. If you have trees in your Tampa yard, they should be reliable, wind-resistant trees such as:
\n\n\n\nTrees to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of wind-resistant trees:
\n\n\n\nCost: Hiring a professional to plant a new tree costs about $150 to $1,850, depending on the size, age, and type of tree. A DIY job will cost less, though you will have to pay for the equipment needed for the job.
\n\n\n\n“Location, location, location” is the motto when it comes to strategic real estate investments, but the principle applies to landscaping trees, as well. Picking the right spot to plant your tree isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about picking the safest and most practical location for your tree.
\n\n\n\nDon’t plant a tree right next to your house. If a tree topples over in a storm, it might fall on top of your home and cause severe damage.
\n\n\n\nThe same rule applies to planting trees near power lines. A falling tree might knock over power lines and create a dangerous electric hazard. Avoid this kind of crisis by planting trees a safe distance away from power lines. If your tree grows to over 20 feet tall at maturity, then it needs to be planted at least 20 feet away from power lines.
\n\n\n\nRegularly inspect your trees for damage or illness, and remove any dead or dying trees, especially if they are near your home.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of keeping trees away from structures:
\n\n\n\nCost: The size of a tree determines the size of the job, but generally transplanting a tree costs $229 to $5,440.. Tree removal prices range from $223 to $2,089.
\n\n\n\nThere’s safety in numbers, and when trees are clustered close together, they are more wind-resistant and less likely to topple over in hurricane-force winds. Generally it’s recommended to plant trees in groups of five or more.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also better to have a mixture of different types of trees rather than planting a group of the same type of tree in the same cluster.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of grouping trees:
\n\n\n\nCost: Tree prices range from $150 to $1,850, so budget accordingly for how many trees you need. Don’t forget to consider additional logistical costs, such as the extra trips it will take to transport multiple new trees from the store to your backyard.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trim-Trees.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nTake care of your trees and they will take care of you. Trees are a great source of shade, natural beauty, and, depending on the type, delicious fruit. Without proper care and regular pruning, trees aren’t as resistant and durable in a storm. Keeping your trees regularly pruned helps prevent them from being tossed around in fierce hurricane winds. When it comes to pruning, look out for the three D’s: Diseased, damaged, and dead trees.
\n\n\n\nWhen pruning, remember to thin the crowns of your trees. If the crown of a tree is too dense, rough winds can uproot the tree by pulling it right out of the ground.
\n\n\n\nShrubs aren’t as catastrophically destructive as trees, but loose branches from shrubs still cause plenty of problems on their own. Loose branches become dangerous projectiles in high speed winds or cause drainage blockage problems.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of tree and shrub trimming:
\n\n\n\nCost: To get a professional to trim your tree, you are looking at $315 to $700. A hedge trimming costs approximately $57 per hour, trimming a bush costs roughly $9, and tree trimming is often priced around $428 per tree. If you prefer to save money, you can trim your vegetation yourself.
\n\n\n\nThere’s such a thing as too much of a good thing, and you might be giving your trees too much water. If you overwater trees, the roots will stay shallow because they don’t have any need to delve deeper into the soil in search of water when water is readily available near the surface.
\n\n\n\nTrees with a shallow root system are more prone to getting uprooted when fierce storms and damaging winds blow through.
\n\n\n\nTo help your tree develop deeper roots, water it less frequently. If the soil around your tree is still moist, wait a week or so until it dries out. Then when the ground by the tree roots is dry, you can water your tree again. When you do water, give your tree a good, long drink. Trees need a thorough watering every so often to ensure that they continue to grow roots deeper into the ground.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of not overwatering:
\n\n\n\nCost: This will actually be a cost-saving measure. If you water less frequently, you will be saving on your monthly water bill.
\n\n\n\n![\"Ilex](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/31953982266_8871446f01_c-1.jpg\")
American Holly
Photo Credit: Plant Image Library / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
Hurricanes are tumultuous tempests that cause wild waves that send salty sea spray flying everywhere. Sometimes gusty winds blow salty seawater right into your yard.
\n\n\n\nTo help your landscaping plants survive a storm, choose tough, salt-tolerant plants such as the ones listed below:
\n\n\n\nGroundcovers and flowers:
\n\n\n\nGrasses:
\n\n\n\nVines:
\n\n\n\nTrees and shrubs:
\n\n\n\nIf a plant is not salt tolerant, salt will dry out the plant’s roots. This will hinder the plant from absorbing the water and nutrients it needs to survive, killing the plant.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of salt-tolerant plants:
\n\n\n\nCost: To have your plant bed installed by a professional, service prices typically range around $585 to $3,300.
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to dealing with gusty hurricane winds, you need a fence that allows air to flow through.
\n\n\n\nEven a brand new wooden fence can be easily blown over in powerful high-speed winds if there aren’t gaps wide enough allowing wind to pass through. For this reason, sturdy wooden fences usually aren’t the best options for cities like Tampa. Instead, choose a slatted fencing material, such as:
\n\n\n\nTypes of fencing to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hurricane-resistant fencing:
\n\n\n\nCost: Prices depend on the type of fencing material, although usually fencing costs $7 to $51 per linear foot. Chain link fences cost between $6 and $36 per linear foot.
\n\n\n\nIf you live next to the ocean, you might need a seawall. A seawall helps prevent flooding and erosion of your property near the edge where the waves relentlessly batter your property.
\n\n\n\nSeawalls can be made out of several different materials:
\n\n\n\nSeawalls are designed to block out sea waves by holding them at bay so they don’t flood your property. This is especially important during a storm surge when the weather and waves are extra wild.
\n\n\n\nMaterials to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of building a seawall:
\n\n\n\nCost: Seawall prices range from $113 to $770 per linear foot. Prices will vary depending on the scope of the project and the type of seawall material you choose.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soft-Mulch.jpg\")
Photo Credit: pseudo obscure / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you use mulch in your landscape, avoid hard or sharp mulches such as pea gravel or stone. When blown around by high-speed hurricane winds, mulch becomes dangerous projectiles that cause a lot of damage when they hit windows or batter the surface of your house or car.
\n\n\n\nSoft mulch is gentler and won’t cause the same level of damage. Some soft mulches to consider include:
\n\n\n\nMulch to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of soft mulches:
\n\n\n\nCost: Organic mulches such as tree bark, grass clippings, wood chips, or pine needles are usually best for lawns in hurricane territory. Free is always the best price, since some types of mulch types can be found in your yard, like pine needles or grass clippings. Prices of mulch vary depending on the type of mulch you want to purchase.
\n\n\n\nWhen rain is pouring down in torrents, water needs somewhere to drain or else flooding ensues. Before a hurricane hits Tampa, check that nearby storm drains aren’t clogged. This involves checking that nothing in your landscape is obstructing or blocking storm drainage pathways.
\n\n\n\nLeaves, sticks, and other debris get washed down and become blockage. To prevent a blocked drain from causing flooding, don’t slack off on keeping the yard clean and clear, especially if there is a hurricane heading your way. Mowing your lawn before a hurricane also makes it easier for water to drain through your yard.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of clearing storm drains:
\n\n\n\nCost: If there is a lot of clutter in your yard that needs to be removed but you don’t have time to do the job yourself, lawn care professionals offer services at around $154 to $411.
\n\n\n\nBefore a hurricane hits Tampa, bring any loose objects inside, including outdoor chairs, lawn decor and lawn ornaments, toys, etc. Anything left outside might get blown away or become a dangerous projectile that could crash into your windows or car.
\n\n\n\nAlso, if you have a pool, you should cover it to protect it from getting filled with debris.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of bringing your yard decor inside:
\n\n\n\nCost: Clearing your yard should be a DIY job provided you have enough room inside your house to store your lawn decor. If there’s room, your garage can be used as a space to store your yard decor.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Gutter-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nIf the weather forecast predicts that a hurricane will hit Tampa soon, than you should clean out your gutters. Clearing out leaves, sticks, or other debris clogging your gutter drainage system allows water to drain properly off your roof.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of cleaning your gutters:
\n\n\n\nCost: Hiring a professional to clean your gutters costs $72 to $424, depending on the size of the house and whether the house is a single-story or a multi-story building.
\n\n\n\nWhen there are heavy hurricane rains and the city is in danger of flooding, the last thing needed is more water on your lawn. Turning off your sprinkler systems before a storm hits helps conserve water and protect the pipes from too much pressure.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of turning off the sprinkler system:
\n\n\n\nCost: Switching off the sprinkler system doesn’t cost any money and in fact it will save you some money on water bills.
\n\n\n\nHurricanes are dangerous and have a tendency to leave behind a lot of wanton destruction in their path. You won’t be able to keep your yard impervious to all damage, but taking steps to protect your yard can reduce property damage and repair costs. For hurricane preparedness, follow these steps to protect your yard from damage:
\n\n\n\nDon’t forget to plan ahead and have an evacuation plan ready for your and your family. While you can take steps to protect your yard and increase its hurricane resistance, it still won’t guarantee that your yard or home will be safe. Play it safe and have a plan for what to do when a hurricane strikes.
\n\n\n\nThe hurricane season lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30.
St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass are the best hurricane-resistant grasses for Tampa yards. They are both warm-season grasses with high salt tolerance and a hardiness that makes them able to weather rough weather.
Yes. Artificial grass is wind-resistant and can handle a large amount of water during heavy hurricane rains.
It’s not just wind-resistant trees you need to think about when it comes to your yard: There are also shrubs, bushes, and flowers to consider, as well as fencing and what mulch types are the safest. Ideally, it’s best for Tampa residents to fill their yard with plants that are native to Florida.
If you want a hurricane-resistant landscape design, then find a Tampa lawn care pro to help you with your next landscaping project.
Main Image Credit: Mark Souther / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"13 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tampa, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/1789c/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/107df/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 320w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/293e9/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 500w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/f2cbb/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 800w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/1789c/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 960w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/c26c2/Trees-near-power-lines.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/1dd6e/Trees-near-power-lines.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/67b76/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 320w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/8df11/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 500w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/98a65/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 800w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/1dd6e/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 960w,\n/static/e62ab78ea28e5e92c39c76cbd2d333b4/3cc96/Trees-near-power-lines.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"13 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tampa, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tampa is a prime target for hurricanes. Find out how to make your landscaping more hurricane resistant so your yard can weather the storm."}}},{"node":{"id":"01725c17-83b1-5edc-b262-9d63ea36a680","slug":"worst-weeds-tampa","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/worst-weeds-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":"July 31st, 2019","excerpt":"The same gorgeous weather that attracts so many to Florida also attracts weeds. This year, get ready to strike back. These are some of the worst weeds in Tampa and how to get rid of them.
\n","content":"\nMost weeds need warm weather to survive, which makes the Tampa Bay area the perfect habitat for weeds, since Florida’s humidity and warm temperatures create ideal conditions for invasive plants. If you’re tired of weeds overtaking your lawn and ready to get rid of them once and for all, here is a guide to the 7 worst weeds in Tampa and how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nNo one likes an uninvited guest, and that is exactly what weeds are: an unwanted guest. Not only do weeds ruin the uniform aesthetic beauty of your grass lawn, they threaten the health of your grass, as well.
\n\n\n\nWeeds cause several lawn issues:
\n\n\n\nAside from that, weeds are usually a sign that something is wrong with your yard, such as overwatering or unhealthy grass.
\n\n\n\nThere are two methods for removing weeds from your Tampa lawn: pulling weeds up by hand or using chemical treatments. Which method works best for your yard depends on the type of weeds you have as well as the size of the weed infestation plaguing your yard.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Ruth Hartnup from Vancouver, Canada / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you pull weeds by hand, there is weed-removal equipment you can use to help in the process, such as a garden trowel, a hoe, or a screwdriver. The sooner a weed is removed, the easier it is to pull it up before it has a fully developed root system and takes root in the ground.
\n\n\n\nBe sure to remove the entire weed, including all its roots, tubers, and bulbs. If pieces of the weed are left behind, the weed may grow right back.
\n\n\n\nFor tap roots, try using a screwdriver or dandelion fork to uproot the entire root system.
\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\nSometimes a weed infestation may be too severe to remove by hand. In that case, you might be better off using chemical weed killer treatments to eradicate your weed infestation instead.
\n\n\n\n![\"Broadleaf](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Broadleaf-Plantain.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Simon / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith a knack for thriving in compacted and soggy soils, broadleaf plantain forms a rosette of broad leaves that can grow up to 6 inches long. Broadleaf plantain is an edible perennial with medicinal properties that can soothe digestive problems, minor burns, or wounds. The weed produces flowers that grow in vertical stalks.
\n\n\n\nIt’s a hardy weed with a tap root system that can endure high levels of foot traffic and grow in sidewalk cracks or other tight spots. Broadleaf plantain needs full or partial sun in order to keep growing. From spring to fall, the weed produces white flowers. The plant is pollinated by wind.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-12
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Loves cool, moist soil most; works in clay or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand removal, post-emergent or pre-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-17.jpg\")
Photo Credit: OllgaP / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSmall, daisy-like flowers surrounded by oval green leaves growing in your yard may be a sign of common chickweed infesting your lawn. Chickweed grows low to the ground, ducking under lawnmower blades.
\n\n\n\nA winter annual, common chickweed is an invasive species that thrives in areas that are moist, cool, and shady. Although the flowers may be pretty, chickweed is an invasive spreader, and a single chickweed plant can produce more than 800 seeds.
\n\n\n\nThe best way to get rid of common chickweed is to use herbicides or uproot them by hand. Remember that chickweed has a fibrous root system, so don’t leave traces of the weed behind, otherwise it might grow back.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Areas that are moist, cool, and shady
\n\n\n\nDanger: Although common chickweed is edible, in some cases it might cause an upset stomach if consumed in large quantities
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand removal, pre-emergent herbicides, good lawn maintenance
\n\n\n\n![\"Crabgrass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Large-crabgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFlat, bright green grass blades shooting out from a central root and tapering to a sharp point are a trademark feature of crabgrass. Crabgrass is a warm-season grass that loves Tampa weather. Its seeds germinate in early spring and summer, and crabgrass tends to pop up wherever there is patchy grass or bare plots of soil.
\n\n\n\nCrabgrass reproduces rapidly. If left alone too long, you risk the weed spreading seeds all over your lawn. The best treatment for crabgrass is herbicides. Also avoid cutting your grass too low, otherwise it may result in inviting crabgrass to invade your lawn.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Dry, disturbed soil where the grass is sparse and there are dirt patches for crabgrass to grow in
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides, hand removal, routine lawn maintenance
\n\n\n\n![\"Dandelion](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/dandelion-flowers-in-lawn-Mike-Mozart-cc20.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mike Mozart / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOne common weed that can be seen across North America is the dandelion. This flowering weed is known for maturing into the white puffballs of seeds you blow on to make a wish, but blow on one of these and you might find yourself getting a weed you hadn’t wished for.
\n\n\n\nDandelions blossom in a cheery bright yellow flower of spiky petals stuck on top of a tall, hollow stem. They have jagged dark green leaves. Dandelions are an edible plant that usually sprout up in late spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nDandelions are difficult to remove by hand because they have deep tap roots that delve 6-18 inches deep. Post-emergent herbicides can remove dandelions. Keeping your grass dense and healthy with routine lawn maintenance is the best preventative measure against dandelions.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Tolerates most soils
\n\n\n\nDanger: None; dandelions are edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"Dollarweed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dollarweed-also-called-floating-pennywort-water-pennywort-Indian-pennywort-marsh-penny-thick-leaved-pennywort.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dariusz Kowalczyk / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf it looks like a bunch of tiny lily pads infesting your grass, you are dealing with dollarweed. Commonly known as pennywort, dollarweed is a warm-season perennial that thrives in the summer. It is most common in warm states, particularly Florida and Texas.
\n\n\n\nDollarweed derives its name from its round green leaves with scalloped edges, which are shaped like a silver dollar. It grows low to the ground and produces little white flowers in July and August.
\n\n\n\nThis water lover has an affinity for moist soils. If you have dollarweed in your yard, it’s a sign you have poor drainage or are overwatering your lawn. To prevent dollarweed from infiltrating your yard:
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4a-10a
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist soil; tolerates sandy, loamy, clay, acidic, or neutral soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand removal, pre-emergent or post-emergent pesticides, proper irrigation
\n\n\n\n![\"Flordia](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Flordia-Pusley.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dinesh Valke / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFlorida pusley grows in dense patches, making it a challenge to remove by hand. Pusley blooms with snow-white flowers that turn purple as they mature. Their oval-shaped leaves taper to a sharp point at the end. Both stem and leaves are hairy, and all the foliage branches out from a single stem.
\n\n\n\nFlorida pusley is a fast-spreading plant that needs to be dealt with quickly to prevent it from overtaking your lawn. It loves lurking in thin areas among warm-season grasses, the types of grasses most commonly found in Tampa yards.
\n\n\n\nDrought-resistant and capable of withstanding sub-freezing temperatures, pusley is a durable weed. The summer annual has a shallow tap root system. Florida pusley usually grows in large groups, so the sheer quantity of them makes them difficult and tedious to remove by hand.
\n\n\n\nRoutine lawn maintenance such as regular mowing, watering, and aeration are good practices to keep Florida pusley away. Just be careful not to mow your lawn too short, otherwise it will decrease the lawn’s health and make it more susceptible to a pusley infestation. A large number of Florida pusley weeds in your yard may be an indication of a nematode problem.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Sandy soils
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand removal, routine lawn maintenance
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGrowing in a haphazard mess of tangly leaves, goosegrass is a low-growing grass-like plant with stems and leaves radiating outward from a pale center, growing more vertically then horizontally. Some homeowners might recognize goosegrass by its other names, wiregrass or crowfootgrass.
\n\n\n\nGrowing in warm regions across the United States, fast-spreading goosegrass can grow up to 12 inches tall if left unattended. Unfortunately, goosegrass thrives in compacted soil and endures high levels of foot traffic, which makes it a tenacious weed capable of withstanding wear and tear.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners can use herbicides to prevent or kill goosegrass. Routine lawn maintenance and aeration helps prevent goosegrass from appearing in your lawn.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Summer annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Compact, wet soils
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre- or post-emergent herbicides
\n\n\n\nFor weed management, the University of Florida recommends spraying pre-emergent herbicides around Feb. 1 in South Florida and Feb. 15 in Central Florida. Homeowners may want to spray earlier than that if temperatures start reaching 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Post-emergent herbicides can be sprayed on any visible weed, although the younger a weed is, the easier it is to control.
Frequent mowing helps eliminate weeds during the growing season as long as the lawn is mowed to the appropriate height and the grass isn’t cut too short. Cutting your grass too short invites weeds to your yard.
Mowing damages weeds and cuts off the flowering parts that produce seeds and spread more weeds across your lawn. Don’t forget to bag your grass clippings so that weed seeds don’t spread around your yard.
Yes, vinegar can get rid of weeds. However, vinegar is not as effective as weed-killing chemicals, as vinegar only kills the top part of a weed, not its root. Vinegar may be a natural solution for a few weeds, but it won’t be effective against large infestations.
Weeds are an irritating nuisance but a problem that can be dealt with, especially if homeowners react swiftly and get rid of weeds as soon as possible. Don’t forget that prevention is the best strategy to stopping weed growth in your lawn. Keep up with routine lawn maintenance and with spraying pre-emergent chemicals to prevent the seeds of invasive plants from germinating.
\n\n\n\nIf weeds are overrunning your yard, don’t stress. Call a pro instead. Wikilawn can help you find a local lawn care company to get rid of those pesky plants for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Hampton Terrace Historic District / Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"7 Worst Weeds in Tampa (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/1789c/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/107df/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.jpg 320w,\n/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/293e9/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.jpg 500w,\n/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/f2cbb/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.jpg 800w,\n/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/1789c/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.jpg 960w,\n/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/c26c2/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/1dd6e/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/67b76/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.webp 320w,\n/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/8df11/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.webp 500w,\n/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/98a65/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.webp 800w,\n/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/1dd6e/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.webp 960w,\n/static/c18fa900f719fba272dfc3cdce7cee0d/3cc96/Hampton-Terrace-Historic-District-Tampa-FL.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Worst Weeds in Tampa (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Weeds are popping up around your Tampa lawn. Find out what weeds are commonly found in the Tampa Bay area and how to get rid of them."}}},{"node":{"id":"2bfbaf80-7122-5e9d-a959-0f43353e808f","slug":"best-native-plants-pensacola","path":"/lawn-care/fl/pensacola/best-native-plants-pensacola/","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":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"301db859-5d9c-56d3-8b4a-5742eaece884","name":"Pensacola","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/pensacola/"}],"date":"April 10th, 2023","excerpt":"In the wild areas of Pensacola, such as Big Lagoon State Park, native plants abound. These plants are an important part of any local ecosystem. They’re a great help to pollinators and feed your area’s critters. They’re also beautiful low-maintenance options for your landscaping if you’re looking for some new blooms to fill your outdoor […]
\n","content":"\nIn the wild areas of Pensacola, such as Big Lagoon State Park, native plants abound. These plants are an important part of any local ecosystem. They’re a great help to pollinators and feed your area’s critters. They’re also beautiful low-maintenance options for your landscaping if you’re looking for some new blooms to fill your outdoor space with. Here’s a list of some of the best native plants for Pensacola to help you pick out your new flora:
\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
American beautyberry is a shrub that certainly lives up to its name. Its light green leaves and vivid purple berries are a sight to behold, making it a great choice for beds or as an accent plant. Beautyberry requires very little water, prefers low sun, and is low-maintenance. It does best in soil with either loam or sandy composition.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 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\nFragrance: Citrus
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low, requires only 1 inch per week
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 4 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None, the berries it grows are edible for humans and animals
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low, prune in late winter to make it look better next year
\n\n\n\n![\"yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Black-eyed_susan_flowers_40862429212.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michel Rathwell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
Black-eyed Susan is a beautiful Florida native wildflower with bright yellow leaves and a dark brown center that gives it its name. It’s highly attractive to pollinators but is resistant to deer and looks great in beds, pots, or planters. It has some drought tolerance but does require its fair share of water.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan prefers full sun and tolerates a wide variety of soil types. If you plant this flower, be warned that it can become invasive if conditions are too ideal, so keep an eye on it and dig up the underground rhizomes it spreads by if it starts pushing out your other plants.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, sandy, loam, acidic, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Can be perennial, biennial, or annual depending on growing conditions
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Spring to early autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Medium. Has moderate drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Blue_Mistflower_Conoclinium_coelestinum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Linda M Morgan / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
Blue mistflower is another beautiful Florida native wildflower, one that grows small purple clumping flowers. It can handle some shade and tolerates a few different soil types, and requires a moderate amount of water while still being drought tolerant.
\n\n\n\nBlue mistflower is resistant to deer and is very attractive to pollinators thanks to the abundance of nectar its flowers hide. This is another flower that can spread, so take care not to let it take over.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Floral
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid summer to autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate, is drought-tolerant
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lonicera_sempervirens_-_Coral_honeysuckle_02.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
Coral honeysuckle is a flowering vine with lovely tube-shaped red flowers that attract all kinds of pollinators, hummingbirds in particular. It has moderate water needs but is drought tolerant once established, and it can tolerate some shade along with a variety of different soils.
\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle makes a great addition to trellises, or can grow around a pole or on a wall. You can even grow them around posts on outdoor structures, like gazebos, to give them that extra je ne sais quoi. Keep in mind, however, that this vine’s flowers are poisonous, so be very careful around them.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, sand, loam, acidic, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Semi-evergreen perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Spring, early summer, autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 15 to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Flowers are toxic to both animals and humans, berries are inedible
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Coreopsis_leavenworthii_Leavenworths_Tickseed_12743506864.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
If you want a native plant for your Pensacola landscape, there’s none better than Florida’s state wildflower. Also known as tickseed, Coreopsis is a wonderful yellow flower that loves the sun and tolerates many different soil types. Some varieties also have stunning red or orange colors closer to the center. It requires a bit more maintenance than some of the others on this list, but is well worth it.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, loam, sand, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Can be annual or perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Summer to autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 6 inches to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None, has medicinal properties
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/30324722222_48e115f639_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schluz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Longleaf pine is a species of pine tree native to Florida. Unlike many other pines, it grows tall and thin, up to 100 feet tall, with most of its branches towards the top of the tree. For this reason, it makes for a great centerpiece for your outdoor space. Longleaf pine is low-maintenance, requires little water, and prefers full sun.
\n\n\n\nIf you do choose this tree for your property, don’t make the decision lightly. Longleaf pine is classified as an endangered species. While you can have one on your property, you cannot cut it down and will need a special permit to relocate it should you decide you no longer want it, so make sure you do your research and understand state and local laws surrounding endangered species before installing a longleaf pine.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand, acidic or neutral, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Pine
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Year-round
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 80 to 100 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Pollen and nuts can set off allergies
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8695231251_e54600299a_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: manuel m. v. / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Red buckeye is a beautiful shrub with tube-shaped red flowers that make it very attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. It’s low-maintenance, tolerates some shade, and requires a moderate amount of water. Thanks to its height, which is tall enough to sometimes be considered a small tree, it makes a great centerpiece for your landscape or can be used as an accent plant.
\n\n\n\nIf you choose red buckeye, keep in mind that several parts of the plant are highly poisonous.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained, tolerates a wide variety of soil types
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: None
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid spring to summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 12 to 15 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Seeds, leaves, and sprouts are toxic to both humans and animals when ingested
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Symphyotrichum_adnatum_168895303.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Horn / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
Scaleleaf aster is another stunning Florida native wildflower, one with pale purple to white flowers and a beautiful yellow center that make it very attractive to pollinators, bees especially. It can tolerate some shade and is very low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. This aster goes great in flower beds and containers and makes for a wonderful accent plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 11
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy, chalky, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Late autumn to early winter
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low, does not require supplemental water once established
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
Scarlet sage, also known as blood sage or tropical sage, is a Florida native wildflower and the only sage native to the US with red flowers, which attract many different kinds of pollinators. It has moderate water needs and is low-maintenance. Scarlet sage can be either an annual or a perennial, and typically blooms in June.
\n\n\n\nScarlet sage is a great accent plant that goes well in flower beds or containers. It’s somewhat sensitive to salt, so make sure it has protection from salt spray and coastal winds. If you’re expecting a heavy storm or hurricane, take them inside so the salt doesn’t harm the plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 11
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Can be annual or perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sage
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid summer to autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nSeaside goldenrod is another Florida native wildflower, one with beautiful small yellow clumping flowers that attract both birds and pollinators. It prefers full sun, loamy or sandy soil, and is low-maintenance and drought tolerant. As its name implies, seaside goldenrod is very salt tolerant, making it a good choice for coastal areas like Pensacola specifically.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Late summer to autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nWith so many choices available, it can be difficult to pick out a few native plants for your landscape. Thankfully, it’s fairly easy to narrow them down. Take note of the conditions in your landscape and choose plants that are well-suited for it. If you get a great deal of sun, for example, pick native plants that do best in full sun, which shouldn’t be hard in Florida.
\n\n\n\nYou also need to examine your soil and determine what composition it has, how well it drains, and its pH balance. All of these things are important for a plant, native or no, so make sure you pick plants that can thrive in the type of soil in your landscape.
\n\n\n\nPensacola is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. This means that its average minimum yearly temperature ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. The Hardiness Zones are used to determine how low of a temperature that plants can thrive in any given area.
\n\n\n\nEvery plant on this list can comfortably tolerate Zone 9a, and Pensacola’s other native plants are very likely to be the same way.
\n\n\n\n Some native plants are poisonous. You’ll need to take certain precautions when keeping these species in your outdoor space to avoid harm to yourself or others. Some examples include certain passionflower species, magnolia trees, and milkweed.
There’s also the possibility for certain native plants to become invasive. If conditions are too ideal, some native plants can push out the others in your garden, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t take over your landscape.
With the right precautions, yes. Most poisonous plants are harmless unless ingested. Some, however, can cause irritation of the skin if you touch them. Here are some tips to help keep you and others safe when keeping poisonous plants:
Many are, but not all. Native plants generally require less maintenance than non-native ones since they’re already in the habitats they’re best suited for. Just like any other kind of plant, however, their levels of maintenance vary.
Not particularly. Every plant needs time to establish itself in a new area, and native ones are no different. Keep an eye on any plant you introduce to your landscape and care for it well until the establishment period has come and gone. How long this takes will vary depending on the kind of plant and exact species.
When it comes to discovering new native plants to grow in your North Florida landscape, there’s no better place to look than the wilderness. Take a walk through areas like Pensacola’s Scenic Bay Bluffs Preserve and take note of some of the flora you see so that you can plant some in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nIt’s important to remember, however, that you should never take plants directly from the wild. Doing so can upset a fragile ecosystem. Instead, purchase them from qualified retailers recommended by the Florida Native Plant Society.
\n\n\n\nIf you need help caring for your landscape, connect with a local lawn care pro who can maintain the yard’s turfgrass, edging, and hedges.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Black-eyed Susan / Joost J. Bakker IJmuiden / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
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