![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/american-beautyberry.jpg\")
With Atlanta’s moderate climate and ample rainfall, it’s home to a variety of beautiful native plants that can add color and texture to your garden. As you design your landscape, note that plants native to Atlanta offer several advantages over non-native species. If you’re ready to create a more sustainable and diverse outdoor space that […]
\n","content":"\nWith Atlanta’s moderate climate and ample rainfall, it’s home to a variety of beautiful native plants that can add color and texture to your garden. As you design your landscape, note that plants native to Atlanta offer several advantages over non-native species.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to create a more sustainable and diverse outdoor space that celebrates the natural beauty of Atlanta, here are 12 native plants to get you started.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Donald Lee Pardue / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the woodlands of the southeastern United States, American beautyberry is commonly found growing along forest perimeters and in the areas adjacent to the woods – spanning from Texas and Oklahoma all the way to Florida and up to Maryland.
\n\n\n\nThis deciduous shrub is a member of the mint family and boasts bright purple berries that cluster along its stems from August to November. Its green leaves turn yellow in the fall, creating a striking contrast with the berries.
\n\n\n\nAtlanta homeowners love American beautyberry not just for its ornamental value but also for its practical uses. And if you’re an avid bird watcher, its berries are a favorite among local bird species. Since it’s relatively easy to grow and requires minimal care, this native plant is an excellent understory shrub for any Atlanta garden. For mass plantings, red chokeberry, oakleaf hydrangea, and great laurel are excellent companion plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6b-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall, 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun and partial shade – needs at least four hours of exposure to direct sunlight per day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows best in rich, organic loam soil but can tolerate a range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – around 1 inch per week (during dry spells, it needs slow, deep watering)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but may cause mild stomach cramps if taken in large amounts
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bigleaf-Magnolia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Soil-Science.info / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBigleaf Magnolias are beautiful hardwood trees with huge leaves and large, fragrant flowers. They’re particularly abundant in the Appalachian Mountains, but you can find them planted in a variety of settings throughout Atlanta, including public parks, gardens, and natural areas. Even the historic Oakland Cemetery has a number of bigleaf magnolias planted.
\n\n\n\nWith its impressive size and striking appearance, the “queenliest of all the deciduous magnolias” is an excellent addition to woodland gardens or partially shaded areas. Its fragrant, creamy white flowers, which can be up to 12 inches in diameter, bloom in spring. During its bloom time, this shade tree attracts various pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 30-60 feet tall, 20-30 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous – semi-evergreen in the deep South
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows best in loose, well-drained, and moist neutral to acidic soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – but can be drought-tolerant
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bottlebrush-Buckeye.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wendy Cutler / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCommonly found in western Georgia, bottlebrush buckeyes are so named for their showy, white flower clusters, which resemble the shape of a bottlebrush. The distinctive flowers typically bloom in late spring or early summer, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nIn the fall, the shrub’s green leaves turn a lovely shade of yellow-green, providing additional visual interest. Low-maintenance yet impressive, the bottlebrush buckeye prefers well-drained, mostly wet soil and can tolerate partial shade. This border plant is excellent for lining driveways and property lines.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-12 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Can tolerate partial shade but does best in full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – infrequent but deep watering
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Very poisonous to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"colorful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly milkweed is popular for attracting pollinators, especially butterflies, to gardens and landscapes. In fact, it’s an important host plant for monarch butterflies, providing crucial habitat for their eggs and larvae. You’ll see butterfly milkweed planted in various outdoor spaces throughout Atlanta, such as gardens, nature centers, and parks like Piedmont Park.
\n\n\n\nSince this perennial herb can tolerate drought conditions and prefers full sun and well-drained soil, it’s perfect for planting in hot, dry areas. It typically blooms in the summer, producing clusters of bright orange flowers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All its parts are toxic and can even be fatal if consumed in large amounts
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Carolina-Silverbell.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Alliance for Historic Hillsborough / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, the Carolina silverbell is valued for its showy, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring – which is typically before its leaves reappear. The drooping clusters of white or light pink flowers add aesthetic appeal while attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to see how these ornamental trees look in person before you plant them in your backyard, you can go to Lullwater Conservation Garden, which has a collection of native plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-40 feet tall, 15-35 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The seeds can be toxic and fatal to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"white](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coastal-Pepperbush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnother perennial shrub native to Atlanta, Coastal Pepperbush, can be found in stream banks, swamps, and hillside bogs. Its bloom time is typically mid to late summer, producing fragrant white or pink flowers that are a favorite of butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The plant’s leaves are deep green and can turn a lovely shade of yellow in the fall.
\n\n\n\nThis native shrub can tolerate salt spray and is also a good choice for naturalizing – it can be used in rain gardens or as a groundcover to prevent erosion. With its fragrant flowers and adaptability to coastal environments, the Coastal Pepperbush is an excellent addition to any southeastern garden.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist to wet, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle is a beautiful vine that is native to the Southeast, including Georgia. It typically blooms in the spring, producing bright coral-red flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds, bumblebees, and other pollinators. This perennial vine is also the larval host plant for both the snowberry clearwing moth and spring azure butterfly.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant this vine to attract wildlife to your garden, as its berries are a food source for birds like the Eastern bluebird and American goldfinch. With its showy flowers and importance to wildlife, coral honeysuckle is an excellent addition to any southeastern garden focused on conservation and sustainability.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-20 feet long
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen to evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows in most soil types but prefers rich, well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Its red berries are toxic to humans but favored by birds
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: gailhampshire / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nA beautiful flowering vine, crossvine can climb up fences and trees – reaching up to 50 feet in length. The natural habitat for this fast-growing vine includes forests, lowlands, uplands, and clearings, but it can be an excellent choice for adding color and visual appeal to your Atlanta garden. This vine is also deer-resistant and can be used to cover unsightly fences or walls.
\n\n\n\nThe cross-shaped pattern inside its trumpet-shaped, red-orange flowers is where this perennial vine got its common name. Its bloom time is usually in the spring but can be as early as late winter. Plus, its glossy green leaves can provide an attractive backdrop to the flowers. Allowing this vine to spread out horizontally on a sun-drenched incline would make for excellent groundcover.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 36-50 feet long
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous to mostly evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flowering-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Derek Ramsey / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nA common tree species in Atlanta, flowering dogwoods are planted throughout the city in parks and gardens, and along streets and sidewalks. The best places to see flowering dogwoods include Piedmont Park and Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail.
\n\n\n\nThe flowering dogwood is so named for its showy, four-petaled flowers, which are white or pink and bloom in early spring before the tree’s leaves appear. The lovely flowers also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. In the fall, the tree’s leaves turn a vibrant red before falling off, providing additional visual interest.
\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree is also an important food source for birds like the Eastern bluebird and northern cardinal, as its bright red berries provide nourishment in the fall and winter.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-65 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Part shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The fruit is poisonous to humans
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mountain-Azalea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, mountain azaleas can be found growing in some parks and gardens throughout the Atlanta area. It typically blooms in mid to late spring and provides any garden with a striking display of pink and white flowers. And during fall, its light green leaves turn a lovely yellow color.
\n\n\n\nWhether used as a specimen or planted in masses, the mountain azalea prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, making it fantastic for planting in woodland gardens or other shaded areas. This perennial shrub is also an important source of nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, as well as a host plant for the caterpillars of the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mountain-Silverbell.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nMountain silverbell got its common name from its bell-shaped, white or pinkish flowers. It usually blooms in early spring before the tree’s leaves appear. In the fall, the tree’s leaves turn a vibrant yellow, providing additional visual interest.
\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree is relatively average in height compared to other larger, more common species, but it can grow up to a height of around 60 feet. It’s also an important food source for wildlife, as its fruit provides nourishment for birds like the Northern Bobwhite and wild turkey.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 60 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, organic loam soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Maple.jpg\")
Red Maple Tree
Photo Credit: David Wagner / PublicDomainPictures / CC0 1.0
Native to eastern North America, red maples can be found from Canada to Florida and west to Texas. In Atlanta, you’ll find these perennial trees in parks and gardens like Grant Park and Atlanta Botanical Garden, as well as many residential neighborhoods throughout the city.
\n\n\n\nThe red maple is so named for its red flowers, twigs, and leaves, which exude striking appeal throughout the year. The tree’s leaves are bright green in the spring and summer and turn a brilliant red or orange in the fall, making it an excellent choice for a shade tree that adds vibrant colors to your yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-60 feet tall, 25-45 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist to dry, slightly acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic, especially the wilted and dried leaves
\n\n\n\nAs the capital and largest city in the state of Georgia, Atlanta boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, from the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains to the coastal plains of the Georgia Piedmont. This means that Atlanta is home to many native plants, including mountain azalea, American beautyberry, and flowering dogwoods.
\n\n\n\nHowever, not all native plants will thrive in every part of the city, as each area has its unique soil composition, rainfall patterns, and sun exposure.
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting native plants for your Atlanta landscape, consider each plant’s specific needs and the conditions of your yard. For example, plants that prefer acidic soil, such as mountain azaleas, may not do well in areas with alkaline soil. Similarly, plants that require full sun exposure, such as butterfly milkweed, may not thrive in shady areas.
\n\n\n\nBy choosing native plants well-suited to your microclimate, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape that supports local wildlife and helps preserve Atlanta’s natural beauty.
\n\n\n\nAtlanta is generally considered to be in USDA hardiness zone 7b, with an average annual minimum temperature range of 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some parts of the city may fall into neighboring hardiness zones, depending on their specific microclimate and elevation. It’s crucial to keep your hardiness zone in mind when selecting plants for your landscape, as it can help you choose plants that are well-suited to the local climate and will thrive in your yard.
\n\n\n\nIn general, a plant is considered native to a certain area if it has evolved and existed in that region for a long time. These plants have adapted to the local climate, soil, and other environmental conditions, making them well-suited to thrive in their native habitat.
The best time to plant native shrubs and flowering plants in Atlanta is typically in the fall or early spring. During these times, the temperatures are mild and rainfall is more abundant.
In the fall, planting should be done before the first frost, which typically occurs in late November or early December in Atlanta. Doing so gives the plants enough time to establish themselves before the winter cold.
In the spring, planting should be done after the last frost, which typically occurs in mid-to-late March in Atlanta. This way, the plants can take advantage of the longer days, warmer temperatures, and spring showers, which promote growth and establishment.
Native plants are essential for maintaining healthy and sustainable ecosystems. These plants have evolved over time to thrive in their specific environments, providing important ecological functions and supporting local wildlife.
Support biodiversity: One of the primary benefits of native plants is their ability to support biodiversity. Native plants provide food and habitat for various animals, including insects, birds, and mammals. For example, native flowering plants provide nectar and pollen for bees and butterflies, while native trees and shrubs provide shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals.
Support the soil: Native plants also help maintain soil health and prevent erosion. These plants have adapted to local soil conditions and help to build healthy soil structures, which in turn can reduce soil erosion and improve water quality.
Support the ecosystem: Native plants also require less water and fertilizer than non-native plants, making them more sustainable and cost-effective choices for landscaping. Plus, they can help create healthy and diverse ecosystems that are more resilient to invasive species.
When it comes to watering native plants, timing and frequency are key. Generally, it’s important to water deeply and infrequently rather than applying small amounts of water frequently. This helps to encourage deep root growth, which in turn promotes plant health and resilience.
Native plants should be watered when the top inch of the soil already feels dry to the touch. This may vary depending on local weather conditions, soil type, and the plant’s specific needs. During hot, dry weather, native plants may require more frequent watering to maintain proper moisture levels. But don’t overdo it to avoid issues like root rot.
It’s better to apply water directly to the base of the plant rather than spraying the leaves or flowers. This helps to prevent fungal growth and other plant diseases.
In addition to proper watering, it’s also important to mulch around the base of native plants. Doing so can help retain moisture in the soil and reduce water evaporation while also suppressing weed growth and promoting soil health.
If you’re looking to incorporate more native plants into your Atlanta landscape, there are several local nurseries and plant resources to check out. However, it’s important to remember to source your plants ethically and never transplant them from the wild.
\n\n\n\nA great resource for finding information on trees, wildflowers, and other native plant species, the Georgia Native Plant Society also recommends the following local nurseries in the Atlanta area:
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting native plants for your landscape, consider the specific environmental conditions of your site, such as soil type, sun exposure, grass type, and drainage. But filling your yard with native plants is just one step in creating a sustainable and low-maintenance landscape. You also must consider other landscaping ideas that complement your native plants, such as mulching, composting, and using rain barrels to capture and reuse rainwater.
Transform your lawn into a beautiful and thriving garden with the help of a professional landscaper. Connect with a local landscaping pro today.
Main Image Credit: Pixnio
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\n","content":"\nWe rarely compare Wyoming to South Africa or Mongolia, but all three steppe locations have almost identical climates and soil. Wyoming’s arid climate requires drought-resistant landscaping to reduce irrigation strains. We have gathered 9 drought-resistant landscaping ideas for your Wyoming landscape to help conserve water and create a low-maintenance oasis.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDrought-tolerant landscaping requires very little water to remain green. Creating a drought-resistant, or water-efficient landscape, conserves water and reduces maintenance.
\n\n\n\nDrought-tolerant plants have adapted to arid conditions and have low watering requirements. Conserving water helps preserve the ecosystem. Most Montana native plant species are drought-tolerant options that require minimal supplemental irrigation once established.
\n\n\n\n![\"Xeriscaped](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/xeriscape-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: InCommunicado / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping focuses on low-maintenance landscaping with an emphasis on water conservation. The practice involves creating a beautiful home landscape that requires no watering except natural rainfall.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping often relies on strategically placed indigenous plants that survive off rainfall, even in Wyoming’s dry, windy climate. Native plants and turfgrasses are a great water-wise option for xeriscaping your yard. They are naturally drought resistant and adapted to harsh seasonal shifts. Besides native plants, some basic steps for xeriscaping your yard include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional xeriscaping costs between $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on many factors like plant selection and the size of your yard. While upfront costs may seem high, you will save around $0.36 per square foot annually on water and maintenance costs.
\n\n\n\n![\"purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rsz_purple_coneflowers_echinacea_purpurea_19421755650-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrew C / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMost Wyoming native plants are perennials, bouncing back year after year, creating a low-maintenance landscape. Natives are adapted to Wyoming’s arid conditions, shifting temperatures, and local pests and diseases. Specimens are low-maintenance and attract local pollinators like hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Wyoming native plants to choose from, including:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-Turf.jpg\")
Photo Credit: 2020Noe / Pixabay / License
\n\n\n\nSome grass types are more drought-resistant than others. Wyoming’s harsh climate requires a cool-season, drought-tolerant turfgrass that can survive the cold winters. Wyoming’s climate is classified as arid and continental, with extreme sunlight and shifting temperatures.
\n\n\n\nDrought-resistant Wyoming grasses include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of drought-resistant turfgrass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional seeding or re-seeding typically costs between $700 to $1,850, depending on the size of your lawn and the seed cultivar you select. If you opt for sod installation, which takes less time to mature, you can expect to spend between $6,650 to $13,700.
\n\n\n\n![\"Mulch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mulchy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: eyecrave / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nMulching is a low-cost DIY job and essential to xeriscaping. Mulch helps plants keep moisture and protects their roots from extreme temperatures. There are two types of mulch: organic and inorganic mulch.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Inorganic mulches are more durable and low-maintenance but do not offer additional nutrients. It is important to note you will need to replace organic mulches like wood chips annually with a fresh layer.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of mulch are:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Mulch costs between $15 to $75 per cubic yard or around $2 to $6 per bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"leaks](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Irrigation_drip_leaks.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sciencehacker / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nDrip irrigation lines conserve water and are more efficient than traditional sprinklers, rotating sprayer heads, or garden hoses. Drip irrigation systems slowly deliver water directly to plant roots. They are installed underground or on the soil’s surface.
\n\n\n\nExperts can retrofit your existing automatic sprinkler system for drip irrigation. For a portable option, opt for a soaker hose you can move from bed to bed.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of drip irrigation:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional drip irrigation installation costs between $1.50 to $4.75 per square foot. Installing a drip irrigation system in a 500-square-foot zone typically costs between $750 to $2,400.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rain-barrel.jpg\")
Photo Credit: zerocattle / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nHarvest rainwater for later use by installing a rain barrel station on your landscape. Place the rain barrel beneath a downspout. Many homeowners blend the rain barrel into the surrounding landscape by decorating the area with plants or rocks.
\n\n\n\nFor every inch of rain that falls on one square foot of your roof, your rain barrel harvests 0.6 gallons of water. A rain barrel system attached to a 100-square-foot roof collects up to 60 gallons of water after one inch of rain.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a rain barrel system:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: A 50-gallon rain barrel typically costs between $100 to $150, depending on the material.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rain](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/52313269453_df788863db_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alabama Extension / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nRain gardens are small, shallow depressions that contain deep-rooted native plants. They are not only attractive but also conserve water. Rain gardens lower the risk of flooding and provide erosion control by reducing runoff. They naturally capture stormwater and filter out pollutants.
\n\n\n\nSome popular rain garden Wyoming plants include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a rain garden:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: A DIY rain garden costs between $3 to $5 per square foot, while professional installation costs between $10 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/28197524409_9c17d5a099_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Antífama / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nInstall stones and rocks to create an elegant rock garden or pathways. This simple DIY job does not have to cost a penny. Rock gardens are a great way to show off native Wyoming elements. Accentuate your rock garden with ornamental plants, water features, and more.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a rock garden:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Rock garden installation costs between $400 to $1,000, depending on the size and materials.
\n\n\n\n![\"landscape-path-pathway-grass-lawn-walkway\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_landscape-path-pathway-grass-lawn-walkway-1149050-pxherecom.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nTurfgrass requires a lot of water to remain green. Limiting the turfgrass area of your landscape reduces its overall watering requirements. Consider replacing sections of your grass with sustainable hardscaping elements.
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are man-made features, including:
\n\n\n\nHardscapes do not require watering, pruning, or mowing. In fact, they don’t require maintenance at all except for an annual cleaning. Be prepared. Hardscapes are an expensive upfront investment, but they increase your home’s value and curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Be prepared to spend around $7,500 for a new deck, $4,000 for a patio, $850 for a fire pit, and $3,000 for a flagstone walkway.
\n\n\n\nSome strategies to minimize water usage in your landscape include:
● Install efficient irrigation, including drip lines and a smart controller with a rain sensor
● Group plants with similar watering needs
● Mulch your flower beds to reduce evaporation
● Practice good soil management techniques to improve moisture retention
Many established drought-tolerant plants can survive for several months without water. Factors affecting your plant’s ability to survive long drought periods include:
● Plant species
● Climate
● Soil type
● Plant health and maturity
The first step to a healthy, drought-tolerant landscape is good soil management practices. Follow some of these tips to help maintain healthy plant roots:
● Send a soil sample in for testing annually
● Add compost and organic matter to increase fertility and drainage
● Apply mulch
● Practice proper watering to avoid under or over watering
● Reduce soil erosion with windbreaks, retaining walls, or specialized plants
● Minimize chemicals
Yard work in Wyoming can feel like thankless work when there are so many chores to complete. Let Wikilawn connect you with a local lawn care pro to take care of your yard chores, so you can spend more time enjoying your outdoor space.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pancaketom / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"9 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Wyoming","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/1789c/devils-tower-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/107df/devils-tower-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/293e9/devils-tower-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/f2cbb/devils-tower-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/1789c/devils-tower-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/c26c2/devils-tower-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/1dd6e/devils-tower-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/67b76/devils-tower-1.webp 320w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/8df11/devils-tower-1.webp 500w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/98a65/devils-tower-1.webp 800w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/1dd6e/devils-tower-1.webp 960w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/3cc96/devils-tower-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Wyoming | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Create beauty and sustainability in your Wyoming yard with drought-resistant landscaping ideas that thrive in water scarcity."}}},{"node":{"id":"7f1dec31-6783-56fd-935f-e41331b8e2c7","slug":"dallas-homeowners-how-to-care-for-st-augustine-grass","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/dallas-homeowners-how-to-care-for-st-augustine-grass/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 3rd, 2018","excerpt":"Caring for St. Augustine grass St. Augustine grass thrives in Dallas, Texas making it a favorite for homeowners in the area. The grass is tolerant to the Texas heat, can survive small periods of droughts and can grow in just about any soil type. The grass is characterized by its dark green hue and dense […]
\n","content":"St. Augustine grass thrives in Dallas, Texas making it a favorite for homeowners in the area. The grass is tolerant to the Texas heat, can survive small periods of droughts and can grow in just about any soil type. The grass is characterized by its dark green hue and dense carpet-like cover. As a warm-season grass, it grows best in warm and humid areas. Its resilience to heat makes it an easy choice for any southern state, and getting on a regular maintenance schedule can keep this lawn flourishing for years.
\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-augustine-sod-patch-dallas-tx-1024x768.jpg\")
Photo: homemadeaustin.com
\nSt. Augustine grass comes as sod, sprigs or plugs and is best planted between May and August. Measure the desired area to ensure you buy enough materials and then begin the prepping process.
\nStart with raking or tilling the lawn until the soil is loose. Be sure to get rid of all weeds, whether by pulling them or applying a herbicide. If there are leftover weeds they will grow into the new lawn. There are soils offered that are designed specifically to enhance growth and nourishment through the early stages of a new lawn. Use this to fill in low spots around the lawn. Lay the sod, sprigs or plugs around the yard and sprinkle a slow-release starter fertilizer. Avoid using other fertilizers because they may damage the new grass.
\nBegin watering two times per day for the first three weeks after planting, then move towards a regular watering schedule. Make sure not to flood the new grass to keep it from catching a disease or fungus. To ensure this, water in the early morning and early afternoon while the sun is out.
\nAs soon as the grass begins to turn green again from winter dormancy its time to up your water regimen to two times a week and start a regular mowing schedule. The first of the grass clippings will help to fertilize the lawn so it’s best not to bag them. About three weeks after the grass turns green apply fertilizer to the lawn. Springtime is an important marker in lawn care for deciding how lush your grass will be for the growing seasons.
\nSt. Augustine grass does great in the summer with proper care from the spring. Measure the amount of water the lawn gets per week from rain and supplement that with watering. The lawn should get about an inch of water each week. Watering twice a week is recommended. Use the same mowing schedule as spring season during summer.
\nApply a 2nd fertilizer 8 to 10 weeks after spring fertilization for the best growth throughout the end of summer.
\nTexas’ autumn seasons can feel like a continuation of summer. With that in mind St. Augustine grass will continue to flourish in warmer seasons, so until cooler days, continue the regular mowing and water schedule from spring and summer.
\nDuring cooler days, the grass will start to turn brown as it goes dormant. The grass will only need to be watered periodically at this point. Be aware of warmer, windy and dry days because this is when the lawn will need a little water.
\nDuring the winter season, the lawn will be dormant so there is not much upkeep at this point. Do not apply any fertilizer in the months of December through February.
\nChinch Bugs are common in St. Augustine grass, especially in the summer. They love heat and the lawn will give them a steady stream of food. Watering the lawn regularly and keeping the lawn healthy will proactively keep the pests away. If, however, the pests are already present, investing in a pesticide may be the only way to get your lawn back. Look out for any patches of yellow grass as this can be a sign of pests.
\nFire ants are the bane of every Texan’s existence. These little pests usually find their way into St. Augustine grass as well. Pesticides tend to be the first response to these suckers, however, if you are opting for a more natural remedy, a 3 percent dish soap to water formula can get rid of them.
\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watering-st-augustine-grass-1024x681.jpg\")
Photo: agrilife.org
\nWatering is essential for any lawn, but especially so in Texas. St. Augustine grass is only slightly drought resistant, so monitoring how much rain the lawn gets is very important. Watering the lawn twice a week is good for this grass. The best time frame to water is early morning and early evening.
\nThe city of Dallas has a strict two times per week watering schedule. Depending on the last digit of your address there are certain days allotted for watering. Even numbers are Sundays and Thursdays, odd numbers are Saturdays and Wednesdays and no address numbers fall on Sundays and Thursdays as well. Watering is prohibited between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the days watering is allowed. These policies have been in place since 2012 to ensure that there will be water in the future for a growing population.
\nStill have lawn care questions that need to be answered? Visit our Dallas, TX lawn care page or read what’s going on in your state.
\n","title":"Dallas Homeowners: How to Care for St. Augustine Grass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/1789c/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/107df/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 320w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/293e9/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 500w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/f2cbb/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 800w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/1789c/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 960w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/4fb49/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/1dd6e/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/67b76/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 320w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/8df11/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 500w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/98a65/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 800w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/1dd6e/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 960w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/62477/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Dallas Homeowners: How to Care for St. Augustine Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"0afb2be5-3cfc-5cf0-bc48-0292d43130b9","slug":"native-plants-baton-rouge-la","path":"/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/native-plants-baton-rouge-la/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d1d6935d-c1c2-53e6-93e2-8203b0f7327d","name":"Baton Rouge","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"}],"date":"July 12th, 2019","excerpt":"Living in a subtropical planting zone has its advantages. One of the most noteworthy is the wide range of beautiful native plants we can use for landscaping. Natives are an optimal choice for yards and gardens because they’re already adapted to all the conditions the Gulf Coast environment can throw at them. They provide habitat […]
\n","content":"\nLiving in a subtropical planting zone has its advantages. One of the most noteworthy is the wide range of beautiful native plants we can use for landscaping. Natives are an optimal choice for yards and gardens because they’re already adapted to all the conditions the Gulf Coast environment can throw at them. They provide habitat for native wildlife and help to preserve our native flora. Read on for a list of native plants for Baton Rouge, LA.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/iKRzbM9Pns266l1jxMd-tJSeXRu-i4m671meODt_rK3jGnrNhdf51Ocmg7RqnNHEUS5bV-jacP-MYPOS0vgi3G1fKtTLBTIAlnc1J5AJ1yzQAiwlNBKcZda_1wYM6-qolsrBsXRC\")
This class of plants is a gardener’s best friend. Perennials come in many shapes and sizes, and most importantly, they bounce back from even the harshest winters. These plants give a great deal while asking little in return.
\n\n\n\nThis part of the garden helps create privacy and visually connects the ground to the trees. Shrubs can provide a windbreak or direct traffic along walkways, or even add to the feeling of separate “rooms” in a landscape.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/26fREMHnfu5h3HRiQz8vQt9oi_hZA_2c0YPPdExgig8AiDnC0PBqSmzJN4gMn8cXSfaMkO4udEyM8TdEEsM_FY3tYcCWBgF5mwpIWPIPjUbOcNq2xM_fftoPVWZcJqFSKxnZwigJ\")
There are many options for native plants in your Baton Rouge landscape. The beauty they offer is matched only by their low-maintenance needs. They also provide food for local wildlife and help repel invasive insects. Once you go native, it’s hard to look back.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Baton Rouge? Visit our Baton Rouge Lawn Care page.
\n\n\n\n
Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.
With large seasonal changes in temperature, you don’t want to spend hours taking care of your lawn’s maintenance needs. Michigan’s humid summer months and harsh winters can make it difficult to get things done. With low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, you will worry less about yard maintenance and more about the Wolverines beating the Ohio […]
\n","content":"\nWith large seasonal changes in temperature, you don’t want to spend hours taking care of your lawn’s maintenance needs. Michigan’s humid summer months and harsh winters can make it difficult to get things done. With low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, you will worry less about yard maintenance and more about the Wolverines beating the Ohio State Buckeyes.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/4608457413_921dff2b0e_c-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Rachel Kramer / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAdding mulch to your flower or garden beds is a simple way to start your low-maintenance landscaping project. Mulch is used to retain moisture in the soil, keep it cool, and suppress weeds. Overall, it can make your garden bed look more attractive.
\n\n\n\nThere are two types of mulch for you to choose from, depending on your landscape preferences.
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The amount you spend on mulch depends on which type you choose. For example, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2 cubic foot bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/48860292107_f132194844_k-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Garry Knight / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you add native plants to your garden, you can sit back and watch them thrive with nothing to worry about. They are adapted to Michigan’s climate and need very little care to survive. They help preserve the local ecosystem and serve as a valuable food source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other small mammals. Despite minimal watering and fertilizing needs, Michigan’s native plants may still require the occasional pruning.
\n\n\n\nBelow are some low-maintenance plants to consider:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on the plant’s type and size, expect to pay between $600 and $3,000 per flower bed, $25 and $50 per shrub, $150 and $3,000 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Serviceberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTired of buying new plants every year? That is the problem with annuals, so consider replacing them with perennial plants. They thrive in Michigan’s climate, can live for several years, and require little maintenance once established. Some native perennials will grow to provide lots of shade, so you may sip on those afternoon cocktails and enjoy your outdoor living space.
\n\n\n\nHere are some suggestions:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of perennials depends on the plant’s size and type. On average, a perennial plant will cost you between $10 and $100.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Geranium_maculatum_11zz.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGroundcovers native to Michigan can be a valuable addition to your low-maintenance landscape. These low-growing plants add color and fragrance to your lawn, with no mowing required. By replacing grassy areas, groundcovers will help you spend less time on watering and other maintenance needs.
\n\n\n\nExamples of groundcovers suitable for Michigan include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on which type you choose, a groundcover will typically cost you between $4 and $40.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to native plants, hardscapes are naturally low-maintenance landscaping features. It can be any type of decorative or practical structure in your front or back yard. Hardscape features will not require any watering, pruning, or fertilizing.
\n\n\n\nHowever, some installations may still require the occasional upkeep. If you lack experience, consulting or hiring a pro will help you choose the right features for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nExamples of hardscaping include the following:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost depends on the project size and the type of feature you choose. Expect to pay between $1,140 and $3,690 for a water feature, $2,600 and $7,300 for a patio, $2,000 and $4,500 for fencing.
\n\n\n\n![\"Native](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeremy Levine / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nXeriscaping is a cost-effective idea that helps you obtain a low-water and low-maintenance garden. It aims to use very little water while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and eco-friendly landscape. Xeriscaping is also wildlife-friendly, attracting beneficial insects, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of low-maintenance xeriscaping include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, the cost of xeriscaping ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor a year-round green lawn, replacing your traditional turf with artificial grass is the way to go. Over the years, it has become a very popular low-maintenance landscaping option. It has a very life-like appearance, withstands heavy foot traffic, and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of hiring a pro to install artificial grass ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot on average.
\n\n\n\nGiven Michigan’s climate, it is no surprise that cool-season grasses dominate the list for the area’s best turfgrasses. You will still need to consider your soil type and maintenance preferences before choosing the right grass for your Michigan yard.
Kentucky bluegrass is perfect for high-traffic lawns due to its quick recovery from wear and tear. On the other hand, chewing fescue is a fine fescue cultivar that is ideal for shady lawns. Tall fescue is another cool-season grass that can tolerate heat better than others.
To learn more about the grasses that thrive in your region, check out our guide on the best grass types for Michigan.
Ornamental grasses add a natural feel to your landscape. They can be used in groups or specimens, and most types are happy without supplemental water. They only need to be cut back once a year, ideally in spring.
Here are some examples of ornamental grasses for your Michigan landscape:
• Feather reed grass
• Tufted hair grass
• Blue oats grass
• Japanese silver grass
Succulents that are suitable to grow in Michigan will generally survive during the winter. However, below freezing temperatures for long periods can harm the succulents. These plants store water in their stems and leaves, meaning they could die as the water freezes inside them.
Even the best low-maintenance landscape requires the occasional upkeep. For minimal yard work, you can hire a landscaping company to mow your lawn and maintain your garden beds. Experienced pros also know how to maintain hardscape, irrigation systems, and other features in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a lawn care pro near you to handle the lawn’s mowing, trimming, and edging, we have trusted professionals in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Spring Lake, and many more cities across Michigan.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Gateway Garden, Matthaei Botanical Gardens / Dwight Burdette / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"7 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Michigan","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1789c/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/107df/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 320w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/293e9/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 500w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/f2cbb/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 800w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1789c/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 960w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/c26c2/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1dd6e/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/67b76/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 320w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/8df11/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 500w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/98a65/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 800w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1dd6e/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 960w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/3cc96/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Michigan","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With 7 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, reduce the amount of yard work and enjoy family trips to Tahquamenon Falls."}}},{"node":{"id":"381bf1d6-38f1-5cb0-8625-812efc325c23","slug":"best-grass-seed-types-massachusetts","path":"/lawn-care/ma/best-grass-seed-types-massachusetts/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nicki DeStasi is a writer, author, and teacher who grew up in western Massachusetts and currently resides in the Austin area. She enjoys flower and vegetable gardening, reading, cooking, listening to true-crime podcasts, and spending time with her husband, two children, dog, and cat.","name":"Nicki DeStasi","id":"ffbf62e2-d627-5a5f-a041-4eaa9ac66924","path":"/author/nicki-destasi/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9846092d7afb2db8d0a4daa2454074f0?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"33c4a526-c6f7-5d9e-96d4-d1803a4d03b7","name":"Massachusetts","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ma/"}],"date":"June 2nd, 2023","excerpt":"You can do a lot in Massachusetts – get a frappe, bang a uey into Dunks, catch a game at the Garden – but the best is hanging in your yard. Gardening, sunbathing, or tossing a pigskin is even better with a luscious lawn. Whether you’re living on the Cape, the Hub, or down the […]
\n","content":"\nYou can do a lot in Massachusetts – get a frappe, bang a uey into Dunks, catch a game at the Garden – but the best is hanging in your yard. Gardening, sunbathing, or tossing a pigskin is even better with a luscious lawn. Whether you’re living on the Cape, the Hub, or down the Pike in Western Massachusetts, choose one of the 5 best grass seed types for Massachusetts for a wicked awesome lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nWith Massachusetts’ relatively mild summers and freezing winters, all but one type of turf (Zoysiagrass) is cool-season grass. In general, there are key differences between warm-season and cool-season grasses. Warm-season grasses grow quickly and have high-drought tolerance. Conversely, cool-season grasses are resilient and luxurious.
\n\n\n\nBut those differences only scratch the surface. Here are some more differentiating characteristics between warm-season and cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nThe following grass seed types are perfect for Massachusetts’ climate and soil conditions.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe fine fescue grass type is a combination of slender creeping red fescue, strong creeping red fescue, hard fescue, chewings fescue, and sheep fescue. Depending on the mixture, fine fescue ranges from blue-green to medium green, and the blades are soft and needle-thin. As long as temperatures stay below 90 degrees, fine fescue lawns stay green throughout the summer.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass except for creeping red fescues, which have rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high; prefers at least four hours of sunlight per day
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; can be prone to diseases like red thread and snow mold
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate resistance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5- 6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Dry to somewhat moist, rocky, sandy, or clay soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: For best results, it’s recommended to plant this during late summer or early fall, but it also can be planted in early spring. During the germination process, which can take up to three weeks, it’s important to keep the soil moist.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is the most popular cool-season grass due to its lovely dark bluish-emerald color with soft, medium to fine texture. Its self-repairing rhizomes fill in gaps and create a beautiful carpeted lawn. But its roots are short, making absorbing essential nutrients hard. Therefore, it’s best to mix Kentucky Bluegrass with other grass types like fescue or ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate – prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-3 inches – mow taller in the summer
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high – can be prone to summer patch, snow molds, fairy rings, leaf spot, dollar spot, chinch bugs, grubs, greenbugs, and bluegrass billbugs
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-drained, fertile soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: To ensure the best growth for this grass type, fertilize twice a year (in spring and fall) and frequently mow your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a fast-growing dark green grass with a fine leaf texture. While it can easily stand alone, it’s often used as a companion (nurse grass) for other grasses and seed blends because of its low maintenance, hardiness, and resistance to pests and diseases. However, while still lovely, its bunched growth habit doesn’t typically create a dense carpet-like lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type (tillers)
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low – prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low – goes dormant in dry summers
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High – needs frequent cutting
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers fertile, well-drained soils but adapts to many soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: The best time to fertilize perennial ryegrass in Massachusetts is in the early spring or early fall, providing optimal conditions for nutrient uptake and promoting healthy growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue is fast-growing with shiny, wide, ribbed, dark green coarse leaves. With excellent cold tolerance, it can survive our cold winters. Due to its bunched growth, it’s best as a stand-alone grass. When mixed with other grass types, your lawn grows patchy and unattractive. It doesn’t require dethatching or a lot of fertilization but may require overseeding.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass – it has vertical shoots called “tillers”
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate – can’t recuperate easily
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate – prepare to mow often due to its fast growth rate
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Best on clay soils high in organic matter but adapts to many soil types.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: For optimal growth and vibrancy of your lawn, apply fertilizer once during the fall months, preferably in September or November.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-4.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach at the English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is slow-growing but forms a beautiful, dense light to emerald green lawn with fine blades. It’s the only warm-season grass recommended this far north, but it will go dormant in the winter (it hides under the snow). Due to its appearance, excellent erosion control, and high foot traffic tolerance, it’s a common choice for parks, golf courses, and other public places.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High – although it needs supplemental watering during dry periods
\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 – common diseases include leaf spot, fairy rings, brown patch, powdery mildew, rust, large patch, spring dead spot, root decline, and dollar spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate resistance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in most soil types but prefers well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It’s best to fertilize Zoysiagrass during the late spring or early summer.
\n\n\n\nPlanting grass seed in Massachusetts is a relatively easy DIY project if you follow the proper steps.
• Choose the right time: It varies by region and grass type. But in Massachusetts, homeowners usually plant grass in the fall.
• Prepare the site: Remove dead grass and grade it if needed. Also, rake where you plan to plant.
• Prepare the soil: Test your soil, then fertilize it as needed.
• Choose the best seed: Consider your lawn’s soil, sun, and foot traffic, as well as the amount of time you have for maintenance.
• Plant the seed: Using a spreader, distribute grass seed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Water appropriately: Varies by grass type. Understand your grass types’ water needs, or you could have lawn problems.
• Monitor seed establishment: Growth will take five to 21 days, depending on the grass type. Watch for bare spots as grass comes in. Reseed bare spots.
• Mow and maintain: Mow and maintain according to grass type needs.
Early fall is the best time to plant grass seed in Massachusetts. During this season, the days are cool with intermittent rain, but the ground is still warm enough for germination. This combination ensures that newly planted seeds won’t dry out.
Perennial ryegrass is known for its excellent traffic tolerance, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas in Massachusetts. Its ability to withstand foot traffic and recover quickly from damage makes it an ideal grass type for lawns that experience heavy use.
Several grass types grow well in Massachusetts’ sandy, acidic soil, but each has pros and cons. When choosing your grass seed type, think about your soil’s microclimate – soil, sunlight, water–and how much time you can devote to maintenance.
\n\n\n\nIn the end, your choice will still depend on your specific needs and preferences. If your kids or pets spend a lot of time outside, go with Perennial ryegrass. If you want to mow less often, try Zoysiagrass. Plant Kentucky bluegrass if your goal is simply a dense, beautiful lawn. Or you might want a combination of grasses to achieve a balance of desirable traits.
\n\n\n\nOnce you’ve established your lawn, don’t forget to add the best native plants to make your landscape pop. Whether in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Cambridge, Lowell, or somewhere in between, Wikilawn can connect you with a highly-rated lawn care pro who can help keep your grass healthy.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Boston Common / Shiyang Hu / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Seed Types for Massachusetts","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/1789c/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/107df/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.jpg 320w,\n/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/293e9/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.jpg 500w,\n/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/f2cbb/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.jpg 800w,\n/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/1789c/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.jpg 960w,\n/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/c26c2/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/1dd6e/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/67b76/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.webp 320w,\n/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/8df11/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.webp 500w,\n/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/98a65/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.webp 800w,\n/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/1dd6e/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.webp 960w,\n/static/a3fa1900403ca6eba39c73b36120f936/3cc96/People-under-tree-in-Boston-Common.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Seed Types for Massachusetts | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"There are 5 best grass seed types for Massachusetts, including fine fescue, tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass."}}},{"node":{"id":"b7a25e61-bcc0-50b0-8908-805eeadcaa03","slug":"native-plants-houston-landscapes","path":"/lawn-care/tx/houston/native-plants-houston-landscapes/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"656604f4-56e7-55ed-8540-cc48be40652a","name":"Houston","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/houston/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 27th, 2019","excerpt":"When’s the last time you stopped to smell the roses in Houston? How about any of the native flowers like the purple coneflower or black-eyed Susan? These are the native plants for Houston landscapes that attract birds, bees and other pollinators. Since they grow here naturally, they need little maintenance or water to thrive. Planting […]
\n","content":"\nWhen’s the last time you stopped to smell the roses in Houston? How about any of the native flowers like the purple coneflower or black-eyed Susan? These are the native plants for Houston landscapes that attract birds, bees and other pollinators. Since they grow here naturally, they need little maintenance or water to thrive. Planting native helps the environment and your yard.
\n\n\n\nWhen designing your landscape, don’t forget the smaller details that set your property apart from the neighborhood. Native plants in Houston and other cities in Texas are celebrated for their visual appeal, and for being eco-friendly. Since they’re easy to maintain, they’ll increase the curb appeal of your home.
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the trees, vines, shrubs, and plants that grow easily in H-Town.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/IAujYhyWhiqbOHyzjyFz6NUQFQvuj2I4pc0kkG_GEpPRgkHDbedud1tWw-tSl8u5lLD4SUErYX1jawFWbfdTpNs6zx_Cd8b1hLSby8HcMZmKulLbZukItYRNevfhRyjKn25ZAPKw\")
There are many species of large trees in Texas; oaks are ones you’ll find everywhere in Houston. They fall into two groups; red and white. Red oaks have jagged leaves with acorns that take two years to mature. White Oaks have smooth foliage with acorns maturing in one season. You’ll also see maple, walnut, ash, cypress, pine, sycamore and tulip trees that typically grow anywhere from 60 to 80 feet tall. The pecan may be our state tree, but don’t forget about the tree that gave Houston one of its many nicknames. The Southern magnolia tree is losing ground to invasive species, but it continues to be the centerpiece in many Houston gardens.
\n\n\n\nSmaller varieties of native trees include the American holly, with its sharply jagged foliage and bright red berries. Pawpaw gives off a tropical-like appearance that highlights your landscape with maroon-red flowers. Acacia sprouts white-yellow blooms, and crape myrtle comes in a variety of colors including lavender, white, reds and pink. You can’t walk far in Houston without seeing a Basham Party Pink Crape Myrtle — a hybrid that can grow up to 30 feet tall.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Gzce4KAaryUIcFtEITJNsdxf48uoM2X-rqy4v2n9DePqDD5Ony7JP9jgifltb08ELuwcOjc22JdH8u6wg9d5e3YiQlTFA5YoTkXn3lgvLU3JH4CWqmssbJ8yv3CpsmsmA6nVLy16\")
Coral honeysuckle has reddish green stems, dark green leaves and looks similar to small shrubs. This vine climbs fences and features red trumpet-shaped blooms that attract hummingbirds. Birds will enjoy a sumptuous feast of orange and red berries during September and October. Coral honeysuckle prefers morning sun and afternoon shade.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/sE86jEBcqWKxF-M92mDKHrnmbixjg18LkCtWraPmOAKx7RwpmT5X4zAaTd3R97gVO77MDiIcii8TBlzOtxFkoZW--1liGil3oSdw6Y5_uXGer1niLxFRqIdjsxlGc_b0MGNJZUwn\")
Photo credit: dunnmary735 on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-NC
\n\n\n\nCarolina Jessamine climbs high with its long, tapered leaves. In winter, you’ll see bright yellow trumpet flowers tinged with a spicy scent.
\n\n\n\nCrossvine blooms in spring with dark-red and yellow flowers.
\n\n\n\nPassionflower vine. With small lavender blooms from April to September, this vine spreads out over fences and trellises. The deep green leaves also attract colorful butterflies. Passionflower vines can grow 10 to 20 feet tall and sprout tiny melon-like edible fruits. A Yellow passionflower vine grows to about 10 feet, blooming in May to September with bluish-black berries.
\n\n\n\nTexas native grapevines draw the birds! With 15 grape species native to Texas, the most common ones are muscadine grape, riverbank grape, and mustang grape.
\n\n\n\nTrumpet creeper is a woody vine that climbs trees and fences, producing red-orange flowers. Houston hummingbirds love these blooms! Trumpet creepers thrive in moist soil and partial shade to full sunlight.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kRurmXejG2XnLwp_LpX1W6xu6z6EVxHo1RnRolb2Fk9B87uTryabo4I7bQbxFf8OT0nX_kvuoX6wKclMNbCXFxgPXAIu_6gBD-0E2-WP6fwrZ40kzIElyG0VArJAnx0VCvBFOE07\")
Agarita is an evergreen that yields single yellow flowers in the spring and then red berries. Agarita prefers full sunlight and well-draining, alkaline soil.
\n\n\n\nGardenia is an evergreen shrub found in many areas of the South. Its white flowers bring about a pleasant scent.
\n\n\n\nJasmine shrubs are evergreens that grow in the Houston area. Primrose and Italian jasmine sprout yellow flowers.
\n\n\n\nPineapple Guava is a grayish green shrub that produces white flowers with bright red stamens.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/uNdVGiSx2EG9v5x1-MZfcVx9dcMOe_glWWlidL4AckyX5OPL6tC5boje8E_bDPS2Q4m98CsZLZ-0Me1DHgSCeZ5zayFH1EA1cTsUCeRLAYmm2RYlqJG9rod4bT84eMQGfQ6Phazi\")
The obedient plant blooms in the spring, with some varieties flowering in autumn. Indigenous to Harris County, they spread thickly through their habitats to protect nearby vegetation, especially in winter. Pigeonberry plants develop red fruits to attract birds, and when the sun shines, you can see a red hue on the foliage. Frog fruit perennials grow just about anywhere; it’s an evergreen thatch in the verbena family. If you prefer something with more of a fleshy root system, Mallows hibiscus helps to stabilize the soil in small landscapes.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1atdfgu7JUNDWUCbbU9kVRZAJgX6B551nnuyhKZcvt8AcAYRUFQamIJH554Dg5I2Ze6ZZYMPTLxZ0SXB4YJj5BR81Rc7pyqgdHmfyaBCRM9y39ds0lfUQaykbnqUE7njtdQcmcHP\")
Photo credit: FritzFlohrReynolds on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-SA
\n\n\n\nWith thousands of native plants to choose from, there’s no reason to plant anything else in your garden. They’ll bring color to your landscape that will return year after year with little help from you. The native plants for Houston landscapes will thrive in our heat and humidity and keep your yard Texas strong.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about landscaping and maintenance? Visit our Houston, TX lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
For a cold-weather city like Flint, cool-season grasses are ideal. However, not all grass varieties can tolerate the region’s chilly weather. Here are the best grasses for seeding and growing lawns in Flint. In this article: 4 Great Grasses for Flint In Michigan, where each season is distinct and vibrant and winters are frosty, cool-season […]
\n","content":"\nFor a cold-weather city like Flint, cool-season grasses are ideal. However, not all grass varieties can tolerate the region’s chilly weather. Here are the best grasses for seeding and growing lawns in Flint.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn Michigan, where each season is distinct and vibrant and winters are frosty, cool-season grasses thrive. They actively grow in early spring and fall and stay green late into the fall before going dormant.
\n\n\n\nHere is a closer look at each.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pilot138-17 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThis grass is a top choice for Michigan homes because it tolerates cold and thrives in well-drained soils. In addition, its fast-growing, sod-forming properties allow for quick recovery of bare spots. It’s most easily recognized by its boat-shaped leaf tip and narrow grass blades. Its fine texture is highlighted by a lush emerald blue-green hue that makes it both visually appealing and comfortable under bare feet.
\n\n\n\nTo look its best and last as long as possible, this grass needs a fair amount of maintenance. Kentucky bluegrass needs regular fertilization per season and a lot of water during hot, dry spells to produce high-quality, weed-free turf grass.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fine-leaf-Fescue.jpg\")
Fine-leaf Fescue
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Fine fescue is another grass that performs well in cool or cold climates like Flint and maintains its fresh appearance year-round. In terms of drought and shade tolerance (partial or complete), this grass outperforms Kentucky bluegrass. Thanks to its deep roots, the finely textured, dark green blades germinate amazingly fast, even in poor or challenging soils.
\n\n\n\nThe only thing to worry about with fine fescue is the amount of water. Excessive fertilizer and water use will eventually harm this hardy grass species and cause thinning.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Tall Fescue
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
Tall fescue is an improved version of fine-textured fescue with a good covering time, excellent turf quality, minimal maintenance requirements, and higher tolerance to heat and drought. Its excellent performance on sandy and dry soils makes it ideal for dry regions in Michigan’s warmer climate.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners with pets, lots of kids, or who have had insect problems in the past may want to try tall fescue. The downside is that its rapid growth requires more frequent lawn mowing.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is renowned for growing extremely fast. Given the right conditions, it can begin growing in as little as five days. It’s hardy and drought-resistant, similar to fescue. Because of its rapid growth, perennial ryegrass acts as temporary shade for bluegrass to establish itself, as well as for varieties that cannot tolerate direct sunlight.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass grows in clumps and cannot spread because it has no rhizomes or stolons. This makes it less tolerant of heavy use.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nPlant between August and October for best results. If you miss that, try mid to late spring, but no later than mid-June.
Kentucky bluegrass. Its high cold hardiness makes it the most commonly grown grass in Michigan.
Tall fescue is tough enough to withstand Michigan’s cold winters, as well as heat and drought. Its deep, hard roots help it survive harsh conditions, even when heavily walked on.
It depends on the grass species and climate. On average, grass seed in Michigan takes 7 to 14 days to germinate.
As you can see, the best grass seed for a lawn in Michigan depends on where you live and the time of year. It’s, therefore, important to know the grass species to plant and maintain the lawn in the right place.
\n\n\n\nEstablishing and maintaining a great lawn is tough. If you need a little help, reach out to our lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Peakpx
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Flint, MI","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5018773466833542,"src":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1789c/Green-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/107df/Green-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/293e9/Green-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/f2cbb/Green-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1789c/Green-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/c26c2/Green-grass.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1dd6e/Green-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/67b76/Green-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/8df11/Green-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/98a65/Green-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1dd6e/Green-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/3cc96/Green-grass.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Flint, MI | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Here are our four top picks for the best cool-season grasses for Flint homeowners."}}},{"node":{"id":"87d3348f-0de8-5a75-8c39-3d89a6894e1d","slug":"how-to-make-spring-lawn-care-miserable-what-not-to-do-this-spring","path":"/lawn-care/how-to-make-spring-lawn-care-miserable-what-not-to-do-this-spring/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jackie Greene is a blogger, gardener, and nutrition enthusiast. She enjoys creating organic meals for family and friends using the fresh ingredients she produces from her backyard homestead.","name":"Jackie Greene","id":"fb5923e1-833b-5d9b-808e-ded0e62c0bc4","path":"/author/jackiegreene/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c1121209a3ebfbe0a7e941d102b2971?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"September 8th, 2018","excerpt":"Ever wondered how your perfect neighbor down the street has a top-notch lawn at the beginning of every spring? Maybe the guy is a former landscaper at Augusta National Golf Club. Or maybe he sold his soul in exchange for the best lawn in your whole county, annually. I’m sure you’d like to believe one […]
\n","content":"Ever wondered how your perfect neighbor down the street has a top-notch lawn at the beginning of every spring? Maybe the guy is a former landscaper at Augusta National Golf Club. Or maybe he sold his soul in exchange for the best lawn in your whole county, annually.
\nI’m sure you’d like to believe one of those possibilities. But most likely, the man simply stays on top of his yard work during the winter time. He is prepared. His reward is not struggling during March and April in order to get his Bermuda lawn back under control.
\nWhile you are missing your kid’s ball games and skipping lake trips to fight off all manner of weeds, “Mr. Yard of the Month” has plenty of time to relax and enjoy his property.
\nSo let’s continue your streak of terrible yard experiences each and every year. Use these tips to make your spring lawn care as miserable as possible, or avoid the satire and follow these laughable statements as what to easily not do.
\nYou know deep down that your Toro mower is not designed to be a wood chipper. But you just can’t help yourself. So keep leaving those fallen tree limbs and branches all over the yard.
\nEven if you don’t want to destroy your mower deck and blades, surely you enjoy picking up limbs on the first sunny day in April, right? It sure beats a trip to your favorite hiking trail.
\nPro tip: It would be a good idea to prune any weak looking limbs during the winter so they don’t add to the fallen branches. Also, protect your eyeballs and prevent concussions. Go ahead and trim those limbs you’ve banged your head on for the past decade.
\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wheelbarrow-full-of-garden-equipment-300x200.jpg\")
Photo: Flickr / Paul Johnson
\nFor me, there is nothing better than saving money with low effort. I don’t like handing hard-earned cash over to the mower repair shop.
\nBut since you want to cause yourself plenty of stress when the flowers bloom, don’t dare winterize your lawn equipment.
\nPro tip: A couple of repair guys told me that ethanol resulted in about 80 percent of their work.
\nNobody has time for fun in the sun come May. Keep yourself busy with nonsense like cleaning out those gutters full of November leaves. Sure, you could have cleaned them out easier when they were 100 percent leaf material. Now they are wet and resemble potting soil as they decomposed over the winter. Have fun with the rubber gloves.
\nAnd most lawn procrastinators will toss the gutter debris right on the grass. That’s a great way to kill off spots of turf as the debris weighs down the young blades of grass.
\nSince you like testing yourself, let those lawn pests build up for a fight. No need battling a few ants when you can let them form an army over the winter.
\nPro tip: Fire ants may be coming to your area soon. They are found in 17 U.S. states currently and only cause $1.2 billion in damage each year.
\nDon’t bother using these tricks to get a jump on lawn pests:
\nYour neighbor with the lush lawn likes pre-emergent herbicides to keep weeds away. But you wouldn’t want to bother with that in the winter. You have better things to do, like watch 23 meaningless college football bowl games.
\nPre-emergents work gradually so they are used by homeowners with patience. Guys who don’t use them end up using post-emergents all spring and summer. It’s a giant time-suck!
\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/flower-bed-spring-lawn-care-300x221.jpg\")
Photo: Flickr / danielle_hp
\nLeaves in the flower beds may look festive in the fall, but not in December. It’s a miserable chore to get those soggy leaves out of mulch beds in March. Dry leaves can be blown easily with a blower in the fall. But be prepared to get your hands dirty and blistered with a rake once they have been in the beds for three long months.
\nA proper lawn guy would wait no later than mid-November to clean those flower beds up. You want to have a neat yard when the family visits on Thanksgiving anyway.
\nIt can cost you a pile of money to buy yard tools that you only use once per year. Do you really need a 10-foot extendable gas-powered chainsaw very often? It would be a good plan to get together with five of your buddies from the neighborhood and create a tool co-op. This setup allows you all to use each other’s tools. Most homeowners don’t need ten different lawn tools. Share and save money.
\nBy the way, this is another way to stay connected to your neighbors. Flying solo is unhealthy mentally. Be the lone wolf and enjoy the misery. Or join the pack so you can break your tool addiction.
\nWinter time is a good opportunity to adapt to “The Great Outdoors” of your backyard. If you can come up with ways to enjoy the patio when it’s really cold, then you can enjoy the days in April – September with less than perfect weather. Storms and cold fronts also come in the warmer seasons.
\nBut if you love misery, just stay piled up on the couch all winter. Don’t give any thought to the ways you can heat the patio with a chiminea, natural gas heater, or a simple DIY fireplace. Your pasty skin will be your reward.
\nSince you treat your mower like a tank when in use, you can do the same while it sits idle before spring. It would be a waste of time for you to inspect the tires, right? You never ran over any debris last year I’m sure.
\nPro tip: Even with tough “no-flat” type tires, you may have wheel bearings that get dirty and need greasing.
\nAnd mower belts last forever, don’t they? They must be in great shape even after chips of limbs flew around the belts with your patented wood-chipping style! And since you’re not a mower repair expert, belt replacement will eat up half of your Saturday in early spring.
\nTo make your mowing take longer and damage your grass, don’t even think of sharpening the blades after your last cut in the fall. Just do your usual… buy new blades once you see chunks of metal missing (unsafe… do not do!).
\nThose tips should make your life pretty tough when spring pops up. Maybe you learned this vicious cycle from your dad. You must think it’s a rite of passage to struggle in the springtime with mowing, lawn pests, and running to Home Depot every day.
\nIt is not!
\nJust take a look at “Mr. Yard of the Month” as you drive by this spring. He’s laying up in his hammock, sipping a cold one, and teaching his dog to fetch. He’s also found time to coach his daughter’s softball team to a 5-0 record. And I bet he walks around barefoot on that awesome lawn for the heck of it.
\nThere’s still time for that to be you. All it takes is some attention to your yard when the weather is not so perfect. For additional reading on how to actually take care of your lawn and prepare it for the spring, here a couple resources:
\nDoing yard work in Plano’s sweltering heat is no fun. Here’s a solution: Transform your landscape with plants that are both attractive and require little maintenance. Check out these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Plano, and you may thank us for saving you time and aggravation. In this article: Native Plants Photo Credit: Public Domain Pictures […]
\n","content":"\nDoing yard work in Plano’s sweltering heat is no fun. Here’s a solution: Transform your landscape with plants that are both attractive and require little maintenance.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Plano, and you may thank us for saving you time and aggravation.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Public Domain Pictures
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want to maximize your garden’s beauty while minimizing the time you put into it, add some native plants.
\n\n\n\nBecause they grow naturally in Plano, native plants are accustomed to its climate and soil conditions, making them more drought-tolerant and pest- and disease-resistant than non-native plants. They also attract pollinators like birds and butterflies, giving the critters a source of food and shelter, so everyone wins.
\n\n\n\nSome of Plano’s best native plants include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of Texas native plants:
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Native-Texas-Xeriscape-Garden-Blooming.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Korye Logan / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nXeriscaping allows you to water your plants enough to keep your lawn healthy and lush but not to the point where you’re wasting water. As a result, you reduce water usage, lowering your water bill.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping incorporates seven principles:
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping also involves water conservation tactics, such as mowing at the proper height and fertilizing once in spring and fall.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLow-maintenance, drought-tolerant grasses do well in Texas’ intense heat. The ones that work best in this environment are:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of planting low-maintenance grasses:
\n\n\n\n![\"Straggler](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Straggler-Daisy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGround cover is an excellent alternative to grass. They are low-growing flowers and shrubs that crawl horizontally across the ground and are cheaper and require less maintenance than grass. Some ground covers include yellow stonecrop (sedum nuttallianum), straggler daisy (calyptocarpus vialis), and chisme (portulaca pilosa).
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of ground cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Texas-Patio.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Texas Custom Patios / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardscapes are any non-living elements in your yard. Their purpose overall is to improve how your outdoor space functions. For example, adding a fence or gate gives your space more privacy. Hardscapes also add value and curb appeal to your home. Imagine how your home would look to a potential buyer if its yard were covered in beautiful flowers.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of hardscapes are:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nImplementing some of these low-maintenance landscaping techniques allows Plano homeowners to spend less time in the hot sun and more time doing what they love.
\n\n\n\nCall one of Wikilawn’s local pros, and we’ll happily do the work for you. If you have any questions about maintenance services, lawn maintenance, or lawn care, we’ll answer any questions you might have.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Aldridge House / Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Plano Texas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/1789c/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg","srcSet":"/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/107df/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 320w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/293e9/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 500w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/f2cbb/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 800w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/1789c/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 960w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/c26c2/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/1dd6e/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/67b76/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 320w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/8df11/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 500w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/98a65/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 800w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/1dd6e/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 960w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/3cc96/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Plano, Texas","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Rather than toil away in the hot sun doing lawn work, try some of these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your Plano yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"3b81bd36-8155-58a5-944f-cba74714aff9","slug":"best-grass-types-washington","path":"/lawn-care/wa/best-grass-types-washington/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"7987b7f7-662d-55d4-9011-4af5647aa2dd","name":"Washington","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wa/"}],"date":"April 29th, 2023","excerpt":"After enjoying the rainforests at Olympic National Park or the stunning waterfall at Snoqualmie Falls, you may want to return home to a landscape just as beautiful and inviting. That’s why we’ve gathered the best grass types for Washington that thrive in the state’s cool weather and rainy conditions. It doesn’t matter if you live […]
\n","content":"\nAfter enjoying the rainforests at Olympic National Park or the stunning waterfall at Snoqualmie Falls, you may want to return home to a landscape just as beautiful and inviting. That’s why we’ve gathered the best grass types for Washington that thrive in the state’s cool weather and rainy conditions.
\n\n\n\nIt doesn’t matter if you live in the rainier, milder climate of western Washington or the drier, colder temperatures of eastern Washington, you’ll find grass with properties that work best for your home and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen choosing a grass type for your lawn, your options include warm-season grasses and cool-season grasses. Washington has a diverse climate and is broken down into several major regions. Even with the differences in weather, cool-season grasses thrive best in all areas of the state.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in hot, humid climates. They go dormant during the cold winter months, from late autumn through early spring, as temperatures cool. The grass turns brown when the temperatures drop below freezing.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grass thrives best in areas with hot summers and short, mild winters, so most grasses in the southern regions of the country are warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nWhile warm-season grass is green in the summer, cool-season grass is brown and dormant during this time of year. Like warm season-grasses, freezing temperatures send cool-season grasses into dormancy. But cool-season grasses go dormant later in the season than warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grass thrives when air temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Another characteristic of cool-season grasses is that they are well-adapted to areas that experience wide variations in temperatures. Because they grow best in cool to mild weather, most grasses in the northern regions of the United States are cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nThe climates in western Washington and eastern Washington are different. Because different climates, soil types, and other factors affect grass health and growth, we identify which grass types are best for each major region:
\n\n\n\nThe most prevalently used grass in the United States is Kentucky bluegrass. It is well adapted to eastern Washington’s soil and extreme temperature fluctuations. However, it’s not well-suited for the soil and mild, cool, and moist climate of western Washington.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass requires a lot of maintenance, like frequent mowing, watering, and fertilization, but the hard work may be worth the benefits. Bluegrass quickly fills in bald patches after a lawn is established. So, if you have bare spots, you may want to consider bluegrass. This grass type also helps prevent erosion.
\n\n\n\nIt has a dark green color and establishes into a lush, dense lawn. Kentucky bluegrass prefers properties that get a lot of sun. If trees or buildings block out the light on your property, fine fescue or tall fescue have more shade tolerance and are better options.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is soft, has moderate foot-traffic tolerance, and recovers quickly from damage. These characteristics have made it a common choice for sports fields in adapted areas. Therefore, Kentucky bluegrass is right at home on properties with homeowners who love to have lawn parties or host play dates full of children playing hide-n-seek across the lawn a few times a month.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and high fertilization needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2.5 to 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6 – 7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Used in most pastures in the northeastern part of the country because it tolerates heavy grazing. Varieties developed for lawn use need more watering, dethatching, and fertilization than varieties used for animal feeding.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is an excellent choice for Washington because it thrives in both eastern and western Washington. If you live in the dividing zone of the Cascade range, you’ll have the comfort of knowing this grass is well-suited for both sides of the line.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass mixes well with other grass types like bentgrass, fine fescues, and Kentucky bluegrass. Although Kentucky bluegrass is a good choice for quickly filling in bare spots, ryegrass may be a better option for bald spots or if you need to overseed or start a new lawn. Ryegrass germinates and establishes more quickly than some other grass types, including Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nRyegrass’s blades are a glossy sheen on one side, and the stem base is reddish-purplish. Perennial has the least shade and drought tolerance of all the grasses on this list. With all of the rain the Cascade range and western Washington receive, a home in these regions will be a good place for this grass variety.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is ideal for those who like to entertain outdoors. It has more wear resistance than other grasses adapted to the Pacific Northwest area. Its fine texture provides a soft landing for falls. If your lawn is host to hide-n-seek games a few days a week, you’ll love perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Helps with weed suppression. Lawns are made more traffic-resistant and disease-resistant when perennial ryegrass is mixed with Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Festuca_arundinacea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bildoj / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is another grass type that homeowners gravitate towards because it grows early and mixes well with other types of grass, like Kentucky bluegrass, bentgrass, and turf-type perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners overseeding an existing lawn or filling in blank patches may choose fine fescue over perennial ryegrass or Kentucky bluegrass because fine fescue is the most shade-tolerant of all the cool-season grasses. It’s a better option if your home is significantly shady and plants don’t get much direct sunlight. The chewings variety is the most shade-tolerant fine fescue species.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue has a blue-green tint. Its fine texture provides a soft cushion for bare feet, but its traffic tolerance is low to moderate. It won’t tolerate routine kickball games or lawn parties.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue has low fertilizer, mowing, and watering requirements, so it’s possible to have an immaculate lawn without a lot of work. Its moderate to high-drought tolerance makes it a good selection for the drier Rocky Mountain Region, Plateau Region, and Eastern Cascade Range.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue thrives across the entire Washington area.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Sheep fescue, hard fescue, creeping red fescue, slender creeping red fescue, and chewings fescue are the most commonly used varieties.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall fescue has wide leaves and a dark green, glossy color. It’s well-adapted to cold, heat, and shade. To prevent damage and stress during long dry spells, homeowners need to mow and water tall fescue often.
\n\n\n\nHowever, it won’t need as much irrigation as some other grasses in non-drought conditions, like perennial ryegrass. This is because tall fescue has moderate to high-drought tolerance, making it ideal for the drier eastern Washington area.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue grows well in both eastern and western Washington.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when the grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Some varieties remain green year-round, like Falcon, Olympic, and Houndog.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/27944336965_d3cbf50ee2_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andreas Rockstein / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nColonial bentgrass has a light green color and dense covering. It grows best when it gets sunlight in the morning and shade in the afternoon and when nights are cool.
\n\n\n\nColonial bentgrass has moderate to high maintenance needs. In addition to requiring mowing at least once weekly, bentgrass also needs to be dethatched, watered, and fertilized often. Although it’s adapted to both the east and west sides of Washington, its high watering needs make it ideal for the heavier rainfall in western Washington and the Cascade region.
\n\n\n\nColonial bentgrass has a soft texture and average foot-traffic tolerance. It’s not the best choice for regular get-togethers on the lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Short rhizomes that may bring about short stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nTraffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high. Best when mowed short, at least once weekly.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1 inch.
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate. Susceptible to Fusarium patch in the winter. Vulnerable to Take-all patch when young but severity decreases as turf develops.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates poor soil conditions, but prefers moist and fertile soil.
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Highland Colonial Bentgrass is a cultivar that’s slightly more heat and drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nThe best grass types to grow in Western Washington include:
\n\n\n\nThe mild, cool, and moist climate of western Washington, which includes cities like Tacoma and Seattle, is what cool-season grasses crave. Summer temperatures usually remain at 79 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Although winter days typically don’t fall below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, temperatures can drop into the low 20’s. Cool-season grasses have the necessary hardiness to survive these freezing lows.
\n\n\n\nThe Cascades are somewhat ambiguous, as they separate or sit between eastern and western Washington. The Cascade Mountains divide the state into two major provinces: eastern Washington and western Washington.
\n\n\n\nThe northern part of the mountains is in eastern Washington and includes most of the Columbia River Plateau. The western part of the Cascade range has the greatest population and includes cities like Vancouver, Seattle, Bellingham, Olympia, and Tacoma. The mountains get a lot of snow and rain, making it a wet area.
\n\n\n\nThe following regions are located in western Washington:
\n\n\n\nThe best grass types to grow in eastern Washington include:
\n\n\n\nEastern Washington does not have the wet reputation of western Washington because the Cascades thirstily drink up most of the rain. The eastern side of Washington, which includes cities like Ellensburg, Wenatchee, and the Tri-Cities, has a dry climate and experiences summers and winters with more extreme temperatures. It’s usually between 0 degrees Fahrenheit and the upper 30s in the winter, compared to western winter days that rarely go lower than 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nSummer temperatures average between the high 80s and mid-90s. Although warm-season grasses thrive best in higher temperatures, eastern Washington needs grass types that can withstand its freezing winter days, too. Cool-season grasses grow best in extreme temperatures, so it is best suited for an area like eastern Washington, which battles both extreme heat in the summer and cold in the winter.
\n\n\n\nThe best types of grass for Seattle are the cool-season grasses discussed in this article, except for Kentucky bluegrass. It’s recommended that Kentucky bluegrass be used only as a mixture with other grasses for the western Washington area.
Seattle homeowners are advised not to use Kentucky bluegrass as monostands, meaning it should not be planted as the only grass type. So, fine fescue, tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and colonial bentgrass are the best grasses for Seattle.
According to Washington State University, warm-season grasses like Zoysia, St. Augustine, bermudagrass, and centipedegrass are not adapted to Washington’s climate and should not be used.
At the time of that publication, buffalograss was being evaluated for use in the area. A more recent article reported it should not be used in western Washington. It can be used in central Washington, but only in areas that are low to moderately maintained.
Kentucky bluegrass will work for you if you live on the eastern side of the Cascade range. But Kentucky bluegrass is not recommended for western Washington. If you’re not quite sure what side you’re on, or you’re closer to the middle, avoid bluegrass and stick with perennial ryegrass, the fescues, and colonial bentgrass.
There’s not much difference between the grasses that thrive in the different regions of Washington, except for Kentucky bluegrass and colonial bentgrass. Nevertheless, if you live in drier regions like the Rocky Mountain Region and Plateau Region, you may want to choose grasses with the highest drought tolerance, like fine fescue or tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nFungal lawn disease spreads in the humidity and cool temperatures in the Pacific Northwest area west of the Cascades. If you live in this area, opt for grasses that are immune to diseases these conditions cause. For example, perennial ryegrass has good immunity.
\n\n\n\nBe sure to choose grass that is well-suited for your yard’s characteristics and your family’s lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nLooking for a Washington lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: House Seattle Washington / Wonderlane / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Washington","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5018773466833542,"src":"/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/1789c/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/107df/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/293e9/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/f2cbb/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/1789c/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/c26c2/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/1dd6e/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/67b76/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.webp 320w,\n/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/8df11/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.webp 500w,\n/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/98a65/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.webp 800w,\n/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/1dd6e/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.webp 960w,\n/static/dcc5705fee323b99d10f2f84d9205b49/3cc96/5846283977_2b596e7bdd_k-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Washington | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Growing a new lawn in The Evergreen State? This article explores the best grass types within eastern and western Washington."}}},{"node":{"id":"aa4cac97-810f-556e-b3a4-bde096908644","slug":"native-plants-illinois","path":"/lawn-care/il/native-plants-illinois/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lydian Pine is a creative writer and studio artist whose work first debuted in a short story anthology. She graduated from the University of North Texas in 2020 and enjoys video games, theatre, and swimming. Lately, she has started to study entomology as a hobby.","name":"Lydian Pine","id":"3478d9b1-e85b-5e4a-860b-443c62d1e29c","path":"/author/lydian-pine/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f31ce7919bd939bc1f102cee2f3304d2?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"51e1f258-c2e9-5d28-83c3-bb7bc475352c","name":"Illinois","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/il/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"Illinois has a diverse climate full of fluctuating temperatures, cold winters, and hot summers. The climate supports a variety of plants, including vibrant perennials and hardy evergreens. Illinoisians encounter native plants decorating farmlands, parks, yards, and more. Discover 15 native plants for Illinois landscapes and add some local, Land-of-Lincoln color to your yard. In this […]
\n","content":"\nIllinois has a diverse climate full of fluctuating temperatures, cold winters, and hot summers. The climate supports a variety of plants, including vibrant perennials and hardy evergreens. Illinoisians encounter native plants decorating farmlands, parks, yards, and more. Discover 15 native plants for Illinois landscapes and add some local, Land-of-Lincoln color to your yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer many landscaping benefits, including:
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-Flag-Iris.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Steakley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlue flag iris thrives in wet environments throughout Illinois, making it a great addition to ponds, streams, or rain gardens. Its tall stems bloom large violet-blue flowers, and its dense clumps of bright green leaves rest on water or ground. They provide nectar for hummingbirds and groundcover for amphibians, snakes, and insects.
\n\n\n\nBlue flag iris prefers wet, acidic soil and tolerates flooding up to three inches. Specimens grow up to three feet tall and bloom from May to June. The perennial is resistant to most pests and diseases, including deer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, poorly-drained clay or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Flood-tolerant; water frequently to keep soil moist
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous roots
\n\n\n\nBlue vervain is a popular choice for Illinois gardens. The perennial has spikes of small purple flowers that attract pollinators. Its dried winter seeds and shoots are a source of food for native wildlife. This tall, clump-forming wildflower has candelabra-shaped stems that grow up to five feet tall once established.
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-Vervain-Verbena-hastata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlue vervain prefers full sun but adapts to shady conditions. It blooms from July to September. Specimens are drought-tolerant and make a low-maintenance addition to borders, rain gardens, ponds, and containers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-5 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade; shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained chalk, loam, or sand.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Blue-Violet.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Steakley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommon blue violet is recognized as Illinois’ state flower. Also known as the purple violet or wooly blue violet, this perennial thrives in areas with filtered sunlight like forest floors. Specimens are easily recognizable courtesy of their broad, heart-shaped leaves and purple blooms with white central petals.
\n\n\n\nCommon blue violet is deer-resistant and an excellent pollinator. It is edible, and the leaves and flowers are rich in vitamins.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-10 inches tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; moist, well-drained chalk, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water one in per week; allow to dry out between watering
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMilkweed is so widespread across Illinois that it was adopted as the state wildflower in 2017. It is an herbaceous perennial with domed clusters of pale pink and white flowers. It thrives in full sun and is drought-tolerant. Common milkweed blooms in the summer and is an essential host plant for the endangered Monarch butterfly, the state butterfly of Illinois.
\n\n\n\nCommon milkweed is low-maintenance, deer-resistant, and generally disease and pest-free. It is a great choice for butterfly or container gardens and flower beds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-4 feet tall and 12 inches wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; well-drained chalk, sand, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week during dry periods
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; mildly poisonous to humans and animals; irritating sap
\n\n\n\n![\"Cup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cup-Plant.jpg\" "\\"alexanders\\"")
Photo Credit: Aaron Volkening / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCup plant survives the extreme Midwestern winters thanks to dormant, cold-weather roots. The herbaceous flowering plant grows up to eight feet tall with toothed leaves and daisy-like blooms.
\n\n\n\nThanks to the shape of its flowers, water accumulates inside like a cup. Cup plant is an excellent backyard specimen that is deer-resistant and has no serious disease or pest issues.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-8 feet and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Golden](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Golden-Alexanders.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGolden Alexanders is a low-maintenance, low-growing plant that is highly adaptable. It thrives in lawns with moist soils and partial to full sun but tolerates a range of soils and conditions, including drought. Golden Alexanders blooms large clusters of tiny yellow flowers during mid to late spring. These flowers are a great source of nectar for beneficial insects.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; moist, well-drained clay, loam, or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Adaptable; water one inch per week during the growing season
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"Indian](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Paintbrush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Superior National Forest / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIndian paintbrush blooms red to orange flowers that resemble spikes that have been dipped in paint. The herbaceous perennial is a hemiparasite, meaning it parasitically relies on other plants for some of its nutrients. Indian paintbrush blooms from late spring to early summer and grows in sandy areas. It attracts many pollinators and controls competition in the garden, creating a balanced ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week; allow the soil to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Small](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Nodding-Wild-Onion.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLady’s leek, or nodding wild onion, belongs to the genus Allium, similar to onions and garlic. It has long, leafless stalks with clusters of capsule-like fruits and a distinct pink or purple bloom. It grows in open areas of North America.
\n\n\n\nLady’s leek has a strong scent. Specimens can be cooked or used raw to season food. It is an ideal plant for your home gardens and is long-lived and hardy.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Bulb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable, moist, well-drained chalk, clay, loam, or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible; little culinary value today
\n\n\n\n![\"New](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Cosmonaut / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5 CA
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNew England aster forms multi-stemmed clusters of lavender, pink, or purple flowers with a yellow center. This drought-tolerant and deer-resistant native thrives in all but the driest soils. New England aster prefers partial to full sun, and mature plants grow up to six feet tall. Specimens provide waterfowl coverage and attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 – 6 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained clay, loam, sand, or chalk
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water once to twice weekly to maintain moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oakleaf-Hydrangea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: normanack / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNamed for its broad, dark green leaves that resemble oak leaves, oakleaf hydrangea is a great shrub for small spaces or borders as an informal hedge. It grows between four to six feet tall and blooms clusters of tiny, white flowers.
\n\n\n\nOakleaf hydrangea blooms in early spring until midsummer. Cultivars have no serious insect or disease problems and thrive in moist soils. Be sure to prune the flowering shrub as soon as it is done flowering to promote new growth.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\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: Adaptable; prefers, fertile, well-drained 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![\"Ohio](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Ohio-Spiderwort.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOhio spiderwort is a quick-spreading, low-maintenance garden plant that also makes a great houseplant. Specimens often resemble long grass or lilies. The flowers are blue or purple with pale central petals. Ohio spiderwort is drought-tolerant and prefers dry soil. The perennial blooms from May to mid-October and grows two to three feet tall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained clay, loam, or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water every 2-3 days during dry spells; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PumpkinSky / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurple coneflower is a perennial herb with purple petals surrounding a burnt orange head atop tall stems. Specimens grow throughout Illinois meadows and open woods. Purple coneflower is low-maintenance and suitable for beginning gardeners. The plant attracts several pollinators and birds, making it a great addition to a wildlife or butterfly garden.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-5 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, well-drained sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-Prairie-Clover-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum from Henfield, England / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurple prairie clover grows across Northern and Central Illinois and is recognized by its conical, thimble-shaped purple flowers. It blooms in summer and attracts butterflies, wasps, bees, and birds. It is a food source for various herbivores, such as the pronghorn, and is hay for livestock.
\n\n\n\nPurple prairie clover thrives in sunny locations with average to dry soils. It has large taproots, which can extend down to six feet below the soil. Specimens are crucial for revegetation, and its long taproot system prevents soil erosion.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained clay, loam, sand, or chalk
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible leaves
\n\n\n\n![\"Sweet](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Sweet-Gum-Liquidambar-styraciflua.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSweet gum is a native shade tree with a narrow trunk and star-shaped leaves that change to shades of orange, yellow, red, and purple in the Fall. It thrives in full sun. After its flowering season, sweet gum produces spiky balls that drop to the ground. Be sure to plant specimens away from foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 30-50 feet tall and 25-40 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained clay, loam, or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: No watering needs outside of natural rainfall
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Wild](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Bergamot-or-Bee-Balm-Monarda-Fistulosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWild bergamot, also known as bee balm, grows throughout Illinois, except in the southernmost regions. Its nectar attracts native pollinators and hummingbirds. The herbaceous flower grows up to five feet tall with three-inch, toothed leaves. Establish specimens from seed or cuttings.
\n\n\n\nWild bergamot prefers full sun to partial shade and can withstand drought thanks to its deep roots. Its roots make it a great choice for stabilizing slopes and erosion control. The perennial blooms pink or lavender flowers in summer that last until October. Wild bergamot is a member of the mint family and has a scent similar to oregano and mint.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; intolerant of flooding
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water once per week in the spring and fall and twice per week in the summer
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible with medicinal uses
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting plants for your yard, keep your hardiness zone in mind. Illinois is located in USDA Hardiness Zones 4b to 6b, which means that Illinois experiences four distinct seasons. All Illinois native plants are hardy to the lowest annual temperatures, approximately -20 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nNative plants can look wild and untamed. They often attract unwelcome wildlife like field mice.
There are almost 2,300 native plant species in Illinois.
Only four prairie buttercup specimens have been spotted since 2007. The native wildflower grows in dry gravel and dolomite prairies in north-central Illinois.
Various organizations in Illinois preserve the original flora and educate people about the significance of native plants. Here are a few things you can do if you want to locate native plants for your landscape:
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t have enough time, energy, or experience to care for your garden, let Wikilawn connect you with an Illinois lawn care pro. From Alton, Carol Stream, to Oak Park, Downers Grove, and more, the experts can mow, edge, weed, and help you pick the best native plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Grant Park, Chicago / Alanscottwalker / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"15 Native Plants for Illinois Landscapes","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3377926421404682,"src":"/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/1789c/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/107df/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/293e9/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/f2cbb/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 800w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/1789c/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 960w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/c26c2/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/1dd6e/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/67b76/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 320w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/8df11/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 500w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/98a65/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 800w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/1dd6e/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 960w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/3cc96/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"15 Native Plants for Illinois Landscapes","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the top 15 native plants for Illinois landscapes, including vibrant blooms, resilient perennials, and ecological benefits."}}},{"node":{"id":"ab6ec02c-3d55-569a-b53a-1de893d11b12","slug":"best-perennials-delaware","path":"/lawn-care/de/best-perennials-delaware/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"0ce95d41-82d7-5ce1-a6c9-4942e40ae6b9","name":"Delaware","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/de/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 5th, 2023","excerpt":"Perennials are a great way to add a yearly burst of color to any landscape, and in Delaware there are so many to choose from. The 10 great perennials for your Delaware landscape below are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive in our temperate climate and its four distinct seasons. In this article: 1. […]
\n","content":"\nPerennials are a great way to add a yearly burst of color to any landscape, and in Delaware there are so many to choose from. The 10 great perennials for your Delaware landscape below are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive in our temperate climate and its four distinct seasons.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Giant-Sunflower-Helianthus-Giganteus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe deSousa / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, the giant sunflower is a real showstopper that grows up to 12 feet. This plant is easy to take care of and tolerates dry weather. Additionally, it’s a magnet for bees and a host for various butterfly species. Plus, its seeds are a common snack for birds.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be careful, because the giant sunflower is severely toxic to pets and various animals. It has some toxic effects on humans, too.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wood-Lily-Lilium-Philadelphicum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe showy, upward-facing blossoms of the wood lily make it a stunning addition to any landscape. The plant was once commonly seen but is now considered a threatened and endangered species in many states.
\n\n\n\nWhile it’s not a Delaware native, you can certainly let the wood lily accompany your yard and help its species thrive, especially if you want to attract wildlife like hummingbirds, butterflies, and even rabbits.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bunch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Butterfly-Milkweed-Symphyotrichum-Novae-Angliae.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nButterfly milkweed is resistant, beautiful, and useful to local wildlife. Within 2 years, this plant produces striking orange blossoms that serve as food for various pollinators. But that’s not the only benefit this easy-care plant offers to the local wildlife; milkweed is also the only host plant for the monarch butterfly.
\n\n\n\nTake caution, though, as this is a toxic plant.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/New-England-Aster-Symphyotrichum-Novae-Angliae.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe charming New England aster produces delicate, purple petals that are a pleasure to grow in any landscape. This plant also feeds wildlife like bees and butterflies, and it’s a great cut flower for arrangements. If you’re in the market for low-maintenance plant options, New England aster is a fitting choice because it doesn’t need much watering and can often just live off rainwater.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-Coneflower-Echinacea-purpurea-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nIf you want a real showstopper, purple coneflower may be what you’re looking for. Its pink-purple flowers are not only stunning to look at, but they attract wildlife such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and songbirds. The plant may, however, sometimes suffer from diseases, so be sure to take care of it properly.
\n\n\n\nHowever, practice caution, as this plant is toxic.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PixaBay
\n\n\n\nFor a yellow pop of color, you need to look no further than black-eyed Susan, also called yellow coneflower; a popular perennial that may take a long time to bloom for the first time, but once it does, it stays in bloom for months. It looks stunning either on its own or combined with its purple counterpart. Plus, it’s another favorite of bees, butterflies, and songbirds.
\n\n\n\nAlthough this plant is eager to reseed, other plants keep it in check. Other than that, black-eyed Susan makes an easy-care addition to your lawn. It’s adaptable and resistant to stressors like heat, drought, and cold.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cardinal-Flower-Lobelia-cardinalis-2.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: linnaeus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe cardinal flower blooms with vibrant red petals in the summer. Because it thrives in wet conditions, it’s perfect for a rain garden. Although it needs frequent watering, cardinal flower is otherwise easy to care for. Plus, butterflies like to snack on the flower’s nectar.
\n\n\n\nAll parts of the plant are severely poisonous, though, so practice caution.
\n\n\n\n![\"Different](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-Phlox-Phlox-Paniculata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bff / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nGarden phlox is a showy perennial that grows in forests, woodlands, prairies, and other natural habitats. It blossoms with pink, purple, or white dome-shaped clusters that can make any landscape look stunning.
\n\n\n\nPhlox species are usually not toxic, but there’s a lack of data surrounding garden phlox, so practice caution. Also, take note that garden phlox is likely to encounter issues with insect pests and diseases, so it needs extra care in that area.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Lance-Leaved-Coreopsis-Coreopsis-Lanceolata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William L. Farr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLance-leaved coreopsis, also called tickseed, is an easy-care plant that gives your lawn that extra touch you’re looking for. When it comes to growing conditions, the plant isn’t picky; it spreads easily and grows up to 3 feet. It also resists dry, hot, and humid weather. The plant isn’t a typical perennial, but though it’s short-lived, it self-sows and produces beautiful blossoms year after year.
\n\n\n\nUsually, coreopsis species are non-toxic. But there aren’t many reports surrounding lance-leaved coreopsis, and it’s been reported as toxic to livestock. It’s always better to be cautious.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wild-Bergamot-Monarda-Fistulosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you like showy, fragrant flowers, you’re in for a treat. Wild bergamot is an atypical pink, purple, or white perennial in the bee balm family that smells like a mix of mint and oregano. Because it’s a wildflower, wild bergamot doesn’t take too much care for it to grow well in your yard. Moreover, it attracts various bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nWhile annual plants live for one season, perennial plants grow year after year. However, annuals are known for their vibrant colors, and some of them self-seed.
It’s best to plant perennials in fall or spring, but you can plant them at any time of the year before the ground freezes.
Delaware’s hardiness zone is 7, meaning that its lowest annual temperature is around 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Any plants you get should match this hardiness zone.
Now that we’ve gone through 10 perennials that thrive in Delaware, you have various options to choose from. Make sure to research each plant thoroughly before adding it to your garden and take the necessary precautions to avoid any potential hazards. With the right care and attention, these perennials can add beauty and color to your outdoor space for years to come.
\n\n\n\nBut choosing the right plant isn’t the last step to creating a beautiful yard. You also need to care for it. If you’d like some help with that, Wikilawn connects you to the best landscaping and lawn care pros in Delaware.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo By: Hippopx
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