![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Annual-Bluegrass.jpg\")
In the bustling city of Atlanta, homeowners and gardeners alike are constantly battling against a common enemy: weeds. From the stubborn dandelion to the invasive yellow nutsedge, these pesky plants can quickly overtake green lawns and colorful gardens, causing frustration and headaches for those who take pride in their outdoor spaces. But which weeds are […]
\n","content":"\nIn the bustling city of Atlanta, homeowners and gardeners alike are constantly battling against a common enemy: weeds. From the stubborn dandelion to the invasive yellow nutsedge, these pesky plants can quickly overtake green lawns and colorful gardens, causing frustration and headaches for those who take pride in their outdoor spaces.
\n\n\n\nBut which weeds are the worst offenders in Atlanta? And, more importantly, how can they be eradicated for good? Take a closer look at the eight worst lawn weeds in Atlanta and discover expert tips on how you can get rid of them once and for all.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nWeeds are the bane of any lawn enthusiast because they look unsightly and cause a whole host of problems. In Atlanta, where the weather can be hot and humid, weeds can quickly take over if left unchecked. Weeds are bad for your Atlanta lawn because they:
\n\n\n\nWhile it can be daunting to get rid of weeds in your lawn, there are two primary methods of doing so – by hand or with herbicides. Both have pros and cons, and which method you choose will depend on your preferences and the severity of the weed problem in your lawn.
\n\n\n\nGetting rid of weeds by hand is a more natural method and doesn’t involve the use of chemicals. Remove unwanted weeds on a weekly or bi-weekly basis and follow these tips:
\n\n\n\nHerbicides designed to kill weeds are often more effective than hand weeding and can save you time and effort:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nOne of the worst and most common weeds that plague homeowners and gardeners in Atlanta, annual bluegrass is notoriously difficult to control and can quickly take over lawns and gardens if left unchecked.
\n\n\n\nIdentifying annual bluegrass can be tricky, as it can often be mistaken for desirable grass species. However, there are a few key characteristics to look out for. It has a more upright or erect growth habit than most grasses, and its leaves are more pointed and finely textured.
\n\n\n\nThis low-growing weed can reach up to 6 inches tall and has bright green leaves that are narrow and tapered, with a boat-shaped tip. The seed heads of annual bluegrass are also distinctive, with a cluster of tiny green or purplish flowers that resemble a crow’s foot.
\n\n\n\nAnnual bluegrass germinates from fall to winter and grows in cooler months. It can grow in a variety of grasses, including fescue, bermudagrass, and Zoysia, and is commonly found in golf courses and lawns throughout the Atlanta area.
\n\n\n\nIt’s easier to pull by hand due to its shallow root system, but its prolific seed production can make it difficult to eradicate completely. Cultural practices – like maintaining healthy soil and mowing at a higher height – can help prevent annual bluegrass from establishing.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual cool-season grass weed
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefers moist and fertile soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: No safety hazards
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Use pre-emergent herbicide in the fall to prevent germination and post-emergent herbicides to kill existing weeds. Hand-pulling the weed and overseeding with desirable grass species also can be effective methods of control.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nKnown for having prickly spines covering its stem, leaves, and purple-pink flower head, bull thistle is one of the most noxious weeds in Atlanta that can injure both humans and animals. It can grow and spread quickly, crowding out desirable plants. This tall broadleaf weed typically grows in grassy areas and can grow up to 7 feet tall.
\n\n\n\nThis biennial plant grows in the second year after germination. It can spread through wind-blown seeds or by root fragments, making it a difficult weed to control once it becomes established. It’s also a prolific seed producer, with each invasive plant producing up to 10,000 seeds that remain viable in the soil for years.
\n\n\n\nBull thistle has a long taproot, so it can be difficult to control and completely eradicate once established. You can prevent this invasive weed from spreading by performing proper lawn maintenance and regular weeding.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Biennial broadleaf weed
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist to dry, adaptable to many soil types
\n\n\n\nDanger: Can be harmful to humans and animals due to sharp spines, some species are toxic
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand-pulling is an option for small infestations, but post-emergent herbicides may be necessary for larger areas. Due to its sharp spines, remember to wear protective gloves and clothing when handling bull thistle.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Common-Chickweed.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Lazaregagnidze / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nCommon chickweed is a pervasive weed in Atlanta and one of the worst offenders for gardeners and lawn enthusiasts. This common winter annual weed grows during the cooler months, making it difficult to control in the fall and early spring.
\n\n\n\nTo identify common chickweed, look for its characteristic small white flowers with deeply lobed petals and pointed, oval leaves that are arranged oppositely along its stem. It can grow up to 8 inches tall and forms a dense mat on the ground, often outcompeting grass and other desirable plants in lawns and gardens.
\n\n\n\nThis lawn weed grows in a variety of soil types and is often found in disturbed areas such as lawns, gardens, and fields. It spreads quickly by seed – a single plant can produce up to 15,000 seeds per year.
\n\n\n\nPrevention is key to controlling this weed. Maintaining a healthy lawn or garden with good soil health, regular watering, and proper fertilization can help prevent its growth.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual cool-season broadleaf weed
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist to mesic conditions
\n\n\n\nDanger: The saponins in its leaves are toxic but are usually broken down with cooking. Plus, they would just pass through the body without causing harm.
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand-pulling or hoeing is effective if done early in the season before the plants have produced seeds. Applying pre-emergent herbicides specifically formulated for broadleaf weed control also can be effective.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAn annual warm-season grass weed that grows aggressively during the warm months in Atlanta, crabgrass can quickly take over a lawn. It typically starts to sprout in late spring and continues to grow throughout the summer. The plant will start to die off in the fall when temperatures cool.
\n\n\n\nIdentifying crabgrass is relatively easy – just look for the star-shaped pattern of the leaves and the clumping growth habit. Its long, flat leaves are light green in color and spread out from the stem in a star pattern. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and has small, greenish-purple flowers that bloom in the summer.
\n\n\n\nOften found in lawns with poor soil health or mowed too short, crabgrass typically grows in thin or bare areas where there’s disturbed soil, such as along the edges of driveways or sidewalks. Preventing crabgrass involves maintaining a healthy lawn and soil. This includes regular fertilization, proper watering, and maintaining a healthy grass height.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual warm-season grass weed
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Thin spots, disturbed and dry soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic to humans and animals, but its natural pesticide can kill other plants near it
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: One option is to use a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring before the weed has a chance to germinate. Another option is to remove the weed manually by hand or with a hoe (remove the entire plant, including the root system, to prevent regrowth.)
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nDandelions are a common sight in Atlanta, and they are one of the worst lawn weeds due to their prolific and persistent nature. These perennial weeds are known for their yellow flowers and deeply serrated leaves, which can grow up to 12 inches long. Dandelions can quickly spread throughout lawns, flower beds, gardens, and fields, making them difficult to control and eliminate.
\n\n\n\nWith a long, thick taproot that can extend up to 10 inches into the soil, their leaves grow in a rosette formation close to the ground. The bright yellow flowers resemble miniature suns, with numerous petals radiating outward from a central yellow disc. Once the flowers have bloomed, they develop into spherical seed heads known as “blowballs,” which disperse seeds with the slightest breeze.
\n\n\n\nDandelions can grow in a variety of grasses, including fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass. They typically begin growing in early spring and continue to thrive throughout the summer and fall. Dandelions thrive in nutrient-rich soil and can quickly take over lawns and gardens that are not adequately maintained.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial broadleaf weed
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Nutrient-rich soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low, may cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis after exposure to its sap
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Use a post-emergent herbicide specifically formulated for broadleaf weed control. Regular mowing and proper irrigation can help keep lawns healthy and prevent weed growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Miltos Gikas / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nOne of the most common and invasive weeds in Atlanta, henbit is an annual broadleaf weed that can quickly spread throughout lawns and gardens and is often difficult to control.
\n\n\n\nHenbit typically grows up to 12 inches tall, with rounded, deeply lobed, and coarsely toothed leaves. The leaves are typically a dull green but can have a purplish tint. The plant also produces pink to purple flowers, which bloom from March to June.
\n\n\n\nOften found in lawns, gardens, and along roadsides, henbit grows during the cooler months – from fall to spring. Various factors cause its growth, including poor lawn maintenance, soil compaction, and over-watering. To prevent henbit, maintain a healthy lawn by regularly fertilizing, mowing, and minimizing soil compaction.
\n\n\n\nNote that henbit can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, so consider leaving some in less visible areas of your lawn or garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual cool-season broadleaf weed
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefers moist and fertile soils, but can grow in a variety of soil types
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic to humans and animals
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent weed control in the fall can help prevent its growth. Hand-pull when it’s still young and hasn’t produced flowers or seeds.
\n\n\n\n![\"large](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lawn Weeds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhite clover has aggressive growth habits and can compete with grass for nutrients and moisture. It’s a low-growing perennial plant that produces white or pinkish flowers and thrives in moist, nutrient-rich soil. While it’s often used as a groundcover in gardens, white clover can quickly overtake a lawn, forming dense mats that suffocate the grass and cause brown spots.
\n\n\n\nTo identify white clover, look for its characteristic three-lobed leaves with white or pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. It spreads through horizontal stolons that creep along the ground and root at intervals.
\n\n\n\nWhite clover can be beneficial in gardens, as it attracts pollinators and fixes nitrogen in the soil. However, it is considered a weed in lawns and should be controlled.
\n\n\n\nMost commonly found in poorly maintained lawns or inadequate nitrogen fertilization, it grows in most grasses and can thrive in a variety of soil types. To prevent white clover from taking over a lawn, maintain a healthy turfgrass by regular mowing, watering, and fertilization. Ensuring adequate nitrogen levels in the soil also can help discourage clover growth.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial broadleaf weed
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Well-aerated, nutrient-rich soil like loam or clay
\n\n\n\nDanger: When its leaf tissues get damaged, white clover emits a noxious substance – cyanide.
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: For small infestations, clover can be removed by hand, ensuring that the entire root system is extracted. Broadleaf herbicides can effectively kill clover without harming the grass. Apply them according to the instructions on the label. If you don’t want to use chemical herbicides, you can apply corn gluten meal or vinegar solutions.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Yellow-Nutsedge.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as yellow nutgrass, yellow nutsedge is aggressive and can quickly overtake lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. It grows during the summer months – from late May through September. Spreading through underground tubers and quickly multiplying throughout the soil, this weed will compete with other plants for resources, making it difficult to maintain healthy plant growth.
\n\n\n\nYellow nutsedge is a perennial weed with a distinctive yellow-green color and triangular stem that grows to around 2-3 feet tall. It has long, narrow leaves that emerge from the base of the plant and a small, cone-shaped flower head that appears in the summer. It can be easily confused with other grassy weeds, but the triangular stem is a key identifying feature.
\n\n\n\nThis sedge weed typically grows in warm-season grasses, including bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass. Preventing its growth can be challenging, but maintaining good soil drainage, regular mowing, and proper fertilization can help keep it at bay.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial sedge weed
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, poorly-drained soil or areas with standing water
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic to humans and animals
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Dig up and remove tubers or apply post-emergent herbicides (be careful with your application to avoid damaging desirable plants)
\n\n\n\nThe answer is yes, it can. However, its effectiveness may not be as potent as regular weed killers. Vinegar works by killing the green parts of the plant on contact, but it won’t eliminate the root. So, while vinegar may be a natural option for dealing with a few weeds, it may not be the best choice for getting rid of a larger infestation.
Selective herbicides target specific types of plants while leaving other plants unharmed. They are often used in lawn care and agriculture to control weeds without damaging desirable plants or crops.
They work by targeting specific enzymes or metabolic processes unique to certain types of plants. For example, broadleaf herbicides are a type of selective herbicide that target broadleaf weeds while leaving grasses unharmed. Grasses have a different type of metabolism than broadleaf plants, and the herbicide is designed to target specific enzymes that are present in broadleaf plants but not in grasses.
Selective herbicides are useful for controlling weeds in areas where non-target plants are present. They can be applied as a spot treatment or broadcast over a large area. But remember to follow the label instructions carefully and use caution when applying selective herbicides, as they can still have negative impacts on the environment and non-target plants if used improperly.
Non-selective herbicides work by killing or damaging any plant they come into contact with, regardless of the plant species or variety. They do this by disrupting important metabolic processes in the plant, such as photosynthesis or protein synthesis, which ultimately leads to the plant’s death.
The active ingredients in non-selective herbicides can vary, but they are typically broad-spectrum and highly effective at killing plants. Some common active ingredients in non-selective herbicides include glyphosate, glufosinate, and paraquat.
Non-selective herbicides are typically used in situations where all vegetation needs to be removed. However, their non-specific nature means they also can harm non-target plants and should be used cautiously.
While weeds may seem like an insurmountable problem in Atlanta, there are many effective ways to combat them. By identifying the eight worst offenders and implementing the strategies outlined above, homeowners and gardeners can take control of their outdoor spaces and enjoy a weed-free lawn and garden.
\n\n\n\nRemember, a healthy lawn is your best defense against weeds, so fertilize and water regularly. And if it doesn’t work, don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and pull weeds out by the roots. With a little persistence and some expert guidance, a beautiful, weed-free yard is within reach.
For more information on weed control and lawn care, reach out to an Atlanta lawn care pro near you.
Main Image Credit: Pxhere
\n","title":"8 Worst Lawn Weeds in Atlanta, GA (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/1789c/Grass-weeds.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/107df/Grass-weeds.jpg 320w,\n/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/293e9/Grass-weeds.jpg 500w,\n/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/f2cbb/Grass-weeds.jpg 800w,\n/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/1789c/Grass-weeds.jpg 960w,\n/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/c26c2/Grass-weeds.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/1dd6e/Grass-weeds.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/67b76/Grass-weeds.webp 320w,\n/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/8df11/Grass-weeds.webp 500w,\n/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/98a65/Grass-weeds.webp 800w,\n/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/1dd6e/Grass-weeds.webp 960w,\n/static/0ff494480bedac51cc4d4f4fa991d2bb/3cc96/Grass-weeds.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Worst Lawn Weeds in Atlanta, GA (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Don't let weeds take over your lawn. Learn how to tackle the 8 worst weeds in Atlanta and keep your lawn lush and healthy year-round."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"0cfc9f93-8f67-5c81-bd98-61c8dd8b922d","slug":"best-native-plants-idaho","path":"/lawn-care/id/best-native-plants-idaho/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Michelle Selzer is a web developer, technical writer, and Linux enthusiast from the hills of Tennessee. Her hobbies include collecting toys, hiking to waterfalls, and writing short fan-fiction stories.","name":"Michelle Selzer","id":"ce795c2b-f287-56e6-a311-f91628ed456a","path":"/author/michelle-selzer/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05a59712d75dec705cc9870b2f909e7?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"227d70eb-59e2-5d7e-9a56-f6dd9d5025be","name":"Idaho","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/id/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 14th, 2023","excerpt":"Idaho is known for its beautiful landscape, which includes mountains, rivers, and valleys. Throughout the terrain grows many native plant species, including trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. The best native plants for Idaho are attractive, low-maintenance, and great for the local ecosystem. So, we researched and compiled a list of Idaho’s most sought-after vegetation. In this […]
\n","content":"\nIdaho is known for its beautiful landscape, which includes mountains, rivers, and valleys. Throughout the terrain grows many native plant species, including trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. The best native plants for Idaho are attractive, low-maintenance, and great for the local ecosystem. So, we researched and compiled a list of Idaho’s most sought-after vegetation.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_5039631314_ddce7f9f0e_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter O’Connor aka anemoneprojectors / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nCommon yarrow is a flowering plant native to rocky hillsides throughout South and Central Idaho. Its white, yellow, or pink flower clusters sit beside green fern-like leaves. Although it’s deer-resistant, an occasional deer may come for the fresh juicy stems that emerge in spring. Additionally, butterflies and ladybugs love its nectar.
\n\n\n\nAside from its beauty and wildlife support, many homeowners grow yarrow for home remedies that treat indigestion, heartburn, or menstrual cramps. Some people call yarrow “soldiers” or “woundwort” because, during the Civil War, its leaves treated bloody wounds. In addition, Native Americans used yarrow tea to treat headaches and toothaches.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 – 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well drained soil, Prefers sandy loams
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Spicey
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium, Drought tolerant
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Continuous ingestion may cause a skin rash. Some people are allergic to its sap.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Regularly prune and deadhead.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Golden-Currant.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nGolden currant is a flowering shrub native to hillsides and river valleys throughout Idaho. It’s an attractive plant that supports local wildlife and is often grown as hedges. In early spring, yellow flowers bloom that will later turn orange. Beside its flowers are light green leaves and orange, black, or red berries. Pollinators feast on golden currant’s nectar, while birds eat its seeds.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained, organically rich
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Spicy and sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March-July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, Drought-tolerant
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 – 10 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: They are non-toxic, but some people get a headache or upset stomach if they eat too much.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mulch helps them thrive.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/7283693140_bf740f092e_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: born1945 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLewis’ mock orange, also called syringa, is Idaho’s state flower. It natively grows throughout North, Central, and Southwest Idaho and is most notable for its fragrant white flowers. The delightful orangey scent attracts many pollinators, such as hummingbirds, butterflies, and bumble bees.
\n\n\n\nOverall Lewis’ mock orange is a lovely shrub that smells delicious. Its big beautiful flowers are complemented by green oval leaves that turn yellow in the fall and small green fruit. However, be careful if you have sensitive skin because touching it may give you a rash.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 – 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Rocky, nutrient-rich, and well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, orangey, citrus scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Early spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium; water in the absence of rain
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4.5 – 9 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: If you have sensitive skin, it could give you a skin rash.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low; prune old stems to encourage new growth
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chokecherry-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nChokecherry, or bitterberry, is a native tree with spectacular shade tolerance that forms thickets throughout Idaho. It has attractive clusters of white flowers complimented by red or purple fruit. Although bitter, its fruit is edible and makes tasty jams and sauces. In addition, many animals enjoy snacking on chokecherry fruit through the summer.
\n\n\n\nOverall, chokecherry is easy to grow and maintain, but be aware of its downfalls. Parts of the tree contain toxins that can harm livestock, and its leaves can sometimes cause death when ingested. Additionally, chokecherry is susceptible to insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2-7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist limestone-based, sand, loam, clay
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Bittersweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – Medium, Drought tolerant
\n\n\n\nMature height: 20 – 30 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Its leaves, bark, stem, and seed pit are poisonous and harmful to livestock.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: The best time to prune is late winter to early spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Big-Sagebrush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Chris Light / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nBig sagebrush is an evergreen shrub native to North Central, Central, and South Idaho. Recognized for its silvery leaves, many Idaho homeowners grow it as hedges or groundcover. In addition, some people use its highly flammable branches as firewood.
\n\n\n\nIt is effortless to care for and provides food and shelter for many animals, including sage grouse, antelope, and rabbits. Big sagebrush is exceptionally drought-tolerant and resistant to deer and most pests and diseases. However, it can get root rot from overwatering.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Dry, rocky soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June – November
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium, Drought-tolerant
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3-15 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: They are very flammable.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Leave 4-5 sets of new branches when you prune.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Arrowleaf-Balsamroot.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lunar Magpie / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nArrowleaf balsamroot is an herb native to hillsides throughout Idaho, and you can find it in many wildflower seed mixes. Its large yellow flowers typically grow one per stalk and look similar to sunflowers. Beside its flowers are big arrow-shaped leaves that have a striking silvery-green color.
\n\n\n\nParts of arrowleaf balsamroot are edible for people and wildlife. Native Americans ate its seeds, roots, and shoots, and herbivores like deer and elk enjoy its leaves, stems, and flowers. Additionally, birds feed on its seeds.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 – 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist sandy or gravelly soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Mild, spicy chocolate
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8-24 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: They are intolerant to disturbances and don’t transplant well.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: It may need occasional deadheading.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/common-snowberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joost J. Bakker IJmuiden / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCommon snowberry is a bushy shrub found in dry prairies throughout Idaho. It has white and pink flowers, dark green leaves, and showy white fruit. Although common snowberry will grow in partial shade, it bears more fruit in full sun.
\n\n\n\nAside from its looks, snowberry is a vital winter food for many animals, including chipmunks and deer. It also nourishes several birds, including songbirds, quail, and pheasants.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Adadbtabe
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Berries, mint, and cinnamon
\n\n\n\nBloom time: July – September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 6 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The berries are toxic to humans and some pets.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Early spring is the best time to prune.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rocky-Mountain-Maple.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Walter Siegmund / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe Rocky Mountain maple is a dainty tree native to Idaho’s canyons, mountains, and wetlands. Many Idahoans choose the Rocky Mountain maple because it’s attractive and low maintenance. Its yellow and green flowers bloom in the spring, and its shiny green leaves turn breathtaking shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 – 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, well-drained, rocky soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Strong
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 30 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: It is moderately flammable and should be at least 50 feet from your home.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Keep the soil moist, especially during summer to avoid scorching leaves.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bush-Penstemon.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Walter Siegmund / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBush penstemon, or shrubby penstemon, is a native herb that is easy to transplant and effortless to maintain. Its showy lavender, blue, and violet flowers sit beside dark green leaves that turn reddish in the fall. It grows wider than tall and attracts moths, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Rocky, sandy or regular garden soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Rose-like
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 – 16 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: It is non-toxic, but unhealthy for pets to eat.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Requires little to no maintenance.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bluebunch-Wheatgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nBluebunch wheatgrass is a native cool-season grass found in Idaho’s mountains and valleys. It grows well from seeds and is quick to establish. Both livestock and wildlife enjoy grazing on it. However, it takes about two growing seasons to be strong enough for feeding, and bluebunch wheatgrass never gets the strength to handle heavy grazing.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Dry rocky soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June – August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, Drought tolerant
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 – 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: It is a mild allergene.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low maintenance
\n\n\n\nWhen choosing native plants for Idaho, please consider the following:
\n\n\n\nThe best native plants for Boise foothills include the following:
● Big Sagebrush
● Antelope Bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata)
● Rubber rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa)
● Netleaf hackberry (Celtis laevigata)
The best native plants for North Idaho include the following:
● Chokecherry
● Golden Currant
● Common Snowberry
● Bush Penstemon
● Bluebunch Wheatgrass
● Saskatoon Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia)
● Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
● Bunchberry Dogwood (Cornus canadensis)
● Conifer Broomrape (Orobanche pinorum)
In addition to the plants on our list, homeowners in Central Idaho should consider these native plants:
● Creeping Oregon Grape (Mahonia repens)
● Antelope Bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata)
● Lewis Flax (Linum lewisii Pursh)
● Conifer Broomrape (Orobanche pinorum)
The best native plants for Twin Falls include:
● Chokecherry
● Golden Currant
● Big Sagebrush
● Arrowleaf Balsamroot
● Bluebunch Wheatgrass
● Western Columbine (Aquilegia formosa)
● Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa)
You can purchase idaho native plants at the following nurseries:
\n\n\n\nAnd you can view native plants at the these nature preserves and gardens:
\n\n\n\nThe best way to maintain a pristine landscape is to hire a lawn care pro near you. Experienced professionals know what it takes for your lawn to thrive. In addition to maintaining the lawn, a lawn care pro can tidy up your yard, trim your bushes, and edge native garden beds. Then, with the time you save, you can visit Yellowstone National Park or Perrine Memorial Bridge.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Cory Maylett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Idaho","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4796547472256474,"src":"/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/1789c/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/107df/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.jpg 320w,\n/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/293e9/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.jpg 500w,\n/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/f2cbb/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.jpg 800w,\n/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/1789c/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.jpg 960w,\n/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/c26c2/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/1dd6e/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/67b76/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.webp 320w,\n/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/8df11/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.webp 500w,\n/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/98a65/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.webp 800w,\n/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/1dd6e/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.webp 960w,\n/static/dd465ffb81d8eb4c4446fb8e1fe52c07/3cc96/Arrowleaf-balsamroot-plant.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Idaho | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best native plants for Idaho are attractive, low-maintenance, and great for the local ecosystem. They include trees, shrubs, and wildflowers."}}},{"node":{"id":"92f50ab2-818b-5568-95a0-6b1bdfa44cc8","slug":"how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer","path":"/blog/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer/","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":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Getting rid of weeds doesn’t have to involve toxic chemicals or break the bank. Herbicides pose health risks to humans and the environment and can harm pets. On the other hand, the organic herbicides you can buy at the store and online are expensive. The solution is homemade weed killers! Keep reading to find out […]
\n","content":"\nGetting rid of weeds doesn’t have to involve toxic chemicals or break the bank. Herbicides pose health risks to humans and the environment and can harm pets. On the other hand, the organic herbicides you can buy at the store and online are expensive. The solution is homemade weed killers! Keep reading to find out how to make a homemade weed killer that actually works.
\n\n\n\nThese options kill weeds without exposing you and your loved ones to poisons that can have detrimental effects, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
\n\n\nA vinegar solution is probably the simplest, most effective, and most popular homemade weed killer you can make. Here’s how to do it with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/white-vinegar.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NatureFriend from Pixabay / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIngredients:
\n\n\n\n— 1 gallon of white vinegar (make sure it’s at least 5% acetic acid)
— 1 tablespoon of dish soap
— 1 cup of salt
How to Use: Pour the vinegar into a spray bottle and add the table salt. Mix them until the salt dissolves. Next, add the dishwashing liquid, which helps the solution stick to the weeds. You can use Castile soap for an all-natural option. Make sure the solution is well-mixed, then spray it directly onto the weeds you want to kill.
\n\n\n\nVinegar and salt can kill any plants, including grass, so be careful not to get the solution on plants you want to keep.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"apple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/apple-cider-vinegar-next-to-apples-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: tylim / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIngredients:
\n\n\n\n— ½ gallon apple cider vinegar
— ¼ cup salt
— 1 teaspoon dish soap
How to Use: Pour the apple cider vinegar into a large spray bottle. Mix in the salt until it dissolves completely, then mix in the dish soap. Apply the mixture directly to the weeds. This vinegar weed killer will destroy other plants, too. So, be careful when targeting weeds in your flower beds or on your lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe acetic acid in the vinegar breaks down the plant’s foliage by extracting moisture, killing the leaves. This natural weed killer works best on young and small weeds.
\n\n\n\nVegetation with deep taproots, like dandelions, may survive treatment. The top growth of these types of plants may be the only part that is killed. If the plants are very young and the roots undeveloped, the weed killer may work.
\n\n\n\nHerbicidal vinegar, which is 20% acetic acid, is a better solution for larger weeds and perennials. Weeds like crabgrass are better controlled with multiple treatments of herbicidal vinegar. However, herbicidal vinegar can burn your skin and eyes, so be careful when applying it.
\n\n\n\nTable salt also pulls out moisture. It contains acetic acid, too. Adding it to your vinegar solution improves the weed killer’s ability to dry out foliage.
\n\n\n\nLiquid dish soap acts as a surfactant that reduces the surface tension and allows the homemade weed killer to spread more evenly across and stick to the leaves, allowing it to penetrate the plant more effectively.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"using](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/using-spray-to-kill-a-weed-in-mulch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: killerb10 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nSpraying during a sunny day helps the acetic acid work more effectively. Spray directly on the targeted weeds. But remember that this solution is non-selective, so in addition to killing most broadleaf weeds, it can also kill other plants. Be careful not to get the solution on your grass or other landscape plants.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlthough the cons of using a homemade vinegar solution are not as severe as using herbicides with harsh chemicals like glyphosate, there are some things to keep in mind. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of using a vinegar solution to kill weeds.
\n\n\n\n| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Less harmful to humans and pets than commercial herbicides. | ✗ Vinegar with 11% or more acetic acid can burn the skin and cause severe eye injuries, including blindness. |
| ✓ Effective on most young broadleaf weeds. | ✗ Kills any plant it makes contact with. |
| ✓ If organic dish soap (i.e. Castile soap) is used, the solution has no synthetic chemicals. | ✗ Some dish soaps have synthetic ingredients that are harmful to the environment. |
| ✓ Acetic acid is biodegradable. | ✗ The typical 5% acetic acid concentration may not kill larger or more established weeds. |
| ✓ Very effective for weed control on patios, gravel, and sidewalks. | ✗ Multiple applications are typically needed. |
| ✓ You most likely already have all the required ingredients and won’t need to spend any additional money. | ✗ Only kills the foliage it is sprayed on and not the roots, meaning new weeds can sprout again unless you manually remove the roots. |
![\"table](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/table-salt-spilled-out-on-a-table.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sebalos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nHere are some other natural weed killers you can make using ingredients you have in your home already or can easily purchase at the grocery store.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSalt can kill weeds on its own or in a spray solution with water. You can use either table salt or rock salt. Learn how in our article on how to use salt to kill weeds.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPut a pot of water on the stove, let it boil, pour it into something with a spout – like a teapot – and soak the weeds you want to kill. Apply it to the leaves of the offending weeds and allow it to soak into the roots.
\n\n\n\nIf you have to pour the boiling water from a container without a spout, pour it on weeds in areas away from other plants, like walkways or cracks. That way, if the boiling water splashes or lands in a wider area than on the weeds, you will not damage other plants.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUse a ratio of 2 tablespoons of alcohol to 1 quart of water and put the mixture in a spray bottle. Spot-treat the problem plants by spraying the mixture directly on the weeds. The solution kills the plant by draining moisture from the foliage, much like vinegar and salt.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Hands](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/crabgrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sergii Petruk / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIf you get to the weeds when they are young and there are just a few of them, you can avoid the use of any weed killer. Except, of course, yourself. You can pull up weeds when they have just a few leaves and small root systems.
\n\n\n\nWeeds are easier to remove manually if the soil is wet, so water the lawn or garden before weeding or wait for a rainy day. When the soil is moist, use your hand, a weeding tool, or a garden trowel to pull up as much of the root system as possible. If you don’t get all the roots, the weeds can grow back.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCan you use homemade weed killers on weeds in grass?
\n\n\n\nYes, you can use homemade weed killers to kill weeds in grass, but you have to apply them carefully. DIY weed killers are non-selective, meaning they kill all plants they come in contact with, not just weeds. When applying homemade weed killers to lawn weeds, use a spray bottle to target the weeds directly, and get as little of it on your grass as possible.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre homemade weed killers safe for pets?
\n\n\n\nYes, the homemade weed killers on this list are safe to use around pets and kids, too. See our list of the best pet-safe weed killers and our article on how to choose pet-safe weed killers to learn which commercial herbicides are also safe for pets.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIs there a DIY weed and feed?
\n\n\n\nCorn gluten meal is an organic alternative to weed and feed, although most homeowners won’t have this ingredient readily on hand.
You can buy organic herbicides that contain corn gluten meal as an active ingredient, or you can purchase corn gluten meal on its own. It acts as a pre-emergent and keeps weed seeds from germinating. It also contains nitrogen to fertilize the lawn. Corn gluten meal must be applied before seeds germinate, or it can cause the weeds to grow. Use the meal when it is going to be dry for at least two days. Multiple applications are typically required.
Commercial herbicides like Roundup contain dangerous chemicals. You can protect yourself, your family, your pets, the environment, and your grass and garden with safer homemade weed killer solutions. Of course, prevention is the best option. Practicing good seasonal lawn care and garden maintenance habits can help keep weeds at bay.
Whether you are using chemicals or DIY options, weed-killing and lawn maintenance is time-consuming and takes planning to be effective. Connect with a local lawn care professional who can help you manage weeds and keep your lawn and landscape healthy.
Main Photo Credit: AprylRED / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"How to Make Homemade Weed Killer","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/1789c/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/107df/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/293e9/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/f2cbb/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/1789c/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/c26c2/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/1dd6e/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/67b76/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.webp 320w,\n/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/8df11/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.webp 500w,\n/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/98a65/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.webp 800w,\n/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/1dd6e/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.webp 960w,\n/static/617039f0a74add35e0831e9f6186a6ea/3cc96/person-spraying-weeds-on-a-fence-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Make Homemade Weed Killer | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want an effective weed killer but not the poisons they contain? Learn how to make homemade weed killer that's safer for your loved ones and the environment."}}},{"node":{"id":"f3cccc4f-a21a-52dd-b285-4d2ff468d47b","slug":"milkweeds-native-to-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/milkweeds-native-to-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Originally from the Washington, D.C., area, Annie Parnell is a freelance writer and audio producer based in Richmond, Virginia. She is passionate about gardening, outdoor recreation, sustainability, and all things music and pop culture.","name":"Annie Parnell","id":"7cb93ddd-c7d5-5808-a0dc-7cdcee97d872","path":"/author/annie-parnell/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/010c9ca3170b2bd8d3c790bd98eee145?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"Virginia boasts several native species of milkweed, a humble herbaceous wildflower that attracts pollinators and acts as a vital food source for native pollinators and beloved endangered species, like bees and monarch butterflies. It’s a great idea to plant milkweed for any garden in the Old Dominion – but how can you choose which milkweed […]
\n","content":"\nVirginia boasts several native species of milkweed, a humble herbaceous wildflower that attracts pollinators and acts as a vital food source for native pollinators and beloved endangered species, like bees and monarch butterflies. It’s a great idea to plant milkweed for any garden in the Old Dominion – but how can you choose which milkweed to plant in your yard?
\n\n\n\n
Some milkweed varieties may not be available at your local garden center, while others just aren’t suited to Virginia’s tricky transition zone climate. Check out these eight milkweed species native to Virginia to make the perfect choice for your lawn.
In this article:
\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\nCommon milkweed is a classic choice for the garden with native regions across North America, including the eastern and central United States and southern Canada. This versatility makes it a great option for Virginia’s hot summers and cold winters. It’s the favorite host plant of the monarch butterfly, and produces pinkish-white flowers with an attractive vanilla scent.
\n\n\n\nCommon milkweed spreads rapidly through rhizomes, so make sure you’re ready for it to make itself at home in your garden. It can grow to about 5 feet tall, and in addition to monarchs it’ll attract bumblebees and other insects to its nectar-laden flowers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 to 5 ft
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Jun-Aug
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rocky, clay, well-drained loamy, and sandy soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lydia Fravel / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSwamp milkweed is a common milkweed native to Virginia, where it thrives in wet soils such as the Washington, D.C. area and the Great Dismal Swamp. It’s moderately tolerant of salt spray, and produces clusters of dusty pink flowers that bloom from late summer to mid-fall, providing visual interest and an important source of food and shelter. Unlike other milkweeds, it can tolerate partially shady conditions.
\n\n\n\nSwamp milkweed is another preferred choice for monarch butterflies, and it may also attract aphids. It thrives when planted near riverbanks, ponds, and streams in the home landscape. Swamp milkweed is a great option for a rain garden, or a wet yard with the red clay soil common in Virginia’s Piedmont region.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 2 to 6
\n\n\n\nMature size: approx. 5 ft tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Jun-Oct
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, wet, mucky clay soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrue to its name, butterfly weed is a major attraction for many different butterfly species, including monarchs, gray hairstreaks, and queen butterflies. The bright orange blooms of this compact milkweed make a lovely addition to Virginia lawns, and it’s commonly grown from seed for home use. Unlike other milkweeds, butterfly weed doesn’t produce the trademark milky sap.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is also known as pleurisy root for its historic medicinal uses, though be cautious, as it’s toxic if ingested in large quantities. Native from New England to Florida and westward to Arizona, it’s an exceedingly drought-tolerant milkweed choice, and will also attract hummingbirds, though you may face problems with aphids.
\n\n\n\n
Growth habit: Herb
USDA hardiness zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 2 ft
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May-September
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, well-drained sandy soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"Poke](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Poke-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Doug McGrady / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPoke milkweed, also known as tall milkweed, is a widely-distributed milkweed native to Virginia. Poke milkweed is naturally found on the edges of forests, where it thrives in rich organic soils. It’s been known to hybridize with common milkweed when the two are in proximity, as these plants closely resemble each other.
\n\n\n\n
Poke milkweed can grow up to six feet in height, and like swamp milkweed it will also tolerate shade and damp conditions, though it doesn’t require its soil to be waterlogged. When in bloom, poke milkweed has a striking cinnamon-vanilla fragrance.
Growth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3 to 7
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 6 ft
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May-August
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich organic content and moderate moisture
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"Whorled](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Whorled-Milkweed-Asclepias-verticillata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Doug McGrady / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhorled milkweed is slightly rarer than other types of Virginia milkweed, but it still makes for a great native milkweed garden addition. Its name comes from the “whorled” or spiraling nature of its leaves, and it’s also known as horsetail milkweed for its distinctive flower stalks. Whorled milkweed is naturally found in woodland habitats, and it can tolerate drought, partial shade, and rocky or clay soils.
\n\n\n\nWhorled milkweed is one of the more toxic milkweed varieties to humans and animals, and it should not be ingested if grown in the garden. It creates greenish-white flowers and is of particular value to monarch butterflies and honey bee species.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 3 ft tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May-September
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, rocky, clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Green-Comet-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith its thick vertical stem and yellow-green and pink blooms, green comet milkweed provides a unique appearance and a pollinator habitat in the garden. It’s particularly valuable to native bee species, as well as monarch butterflies, whose caterpillars feed on the leaves.
\n\n\n\nThis drought-tolerant milkweed is very adaptable to different soil and light conditions, and will produce longer, thinner leaves in dry weather and rounder ones in moist climates.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 2ft tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June-September
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, loamy, rocky
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"Beetle](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/White-Redring-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Leon Young / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhite milkweed is a rarer find in Virginia, but it’s still a native plant that makes a great addition to any butterfly garden or pollinator garden. Also known as redwing milkweed or redring milkweed, this is another native to woodland habitats, and it’s highly resistant to damage from grazing deer.
\n\n\n\nWhite milkweed produces white, popcorn-like flowers with purple centers. It looks particularly breathtaking when planted in clumps or masses, which will show off its appearance and maximize pollinator benefit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 4 ft
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May-July
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, sandy to rocky
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Judy Gallagher / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurple milkweed has very distinctive pinkish-purple flowers, which are excellent at attracting long-tongued bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It’s naturally found in several different habitats, including shrub thickets, shorelines, and woodlands, making it an adaptable and attractive garden addition.
\n\n\n\nPurple milkweed prefers a higher nutrient content than some other milkweed types in its soil. While it’s widely distributed across the US, its population is in decline in some areas, so planting is a good opportunity to aid in conservation efforts!
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 3 ft tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May-July
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy soils, high nutrient content
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested
\n\n\n\nWith all the options available for native Virginia milkweeds, it can seem difficult to select the perfect fit for your lawn. To make sure you’re making the right choice, consider the climate around your Virginia home. Are you looking for a salt-tolerant milkweed that will bask in the beachy conditions of the Tidewater, or one that thrives in the loamy soils of the Blue Ridge Mountains?
\n\n\n\nThese factors can help you pick the perfect milkweed plants for you:
\n\n\n\nPlant milkweed seeds in your garden in the fall in Virginia, as they have adapted to overwinter and thrive in cool temperatures.
\n\n\n\nYes! Milkweed is hardy enough to take root if it’s simply scattered around your yard – that’s how it spreads naturally. But, if you have a specific planting scheme in mind or want better odds of germination, prep your soil first and press each seed into the ground by walking over them or using your hands – no need to bury them.
\n\n\n\nCommon milkweed behaves aggressively in the lawn and can take over a planting scheme. For a less boisterous alternative, try butterfly weed, swamp milkweed, or purple milkweed.
\n\n\n\nVirginia’s native plants include:
\n\n\n\nBecause milkweed is so beneficial to pollinators, there are plenty of ways to find it. Native plant nurseries are likely to sell milkweed varieties, so check out this list of native plant nurseries in Virginia compiled by the Virginia Native Plants Society for options near you.
\n\n\n\n
Prefer to buy your plants online? The Virginia page on the blog Grow Milkweed Plants has online purchase options specifically for Virginia natives.
The great thing about native plants is they’re typically low-maintenance. You can further minimize your outdoor chores by hiring a lawn care pro near you to handle the yard’s mowing, trimming, and edging. Connect with trusted pros in Richmond, Alexandria, Falls Church, and many other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: USFWSmidwest / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
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\n","content":"\nLike us, turfgrass needs proper nutrition to grow and thrive. But grasses come in different shapes and sizes, and have different needs. So one of the keys to getting the most out of your lawn here in Indiana is to understand how and when to fertilize it.
\n\n\n\nFertilizing is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Just as there are different kinds of grasses, there are different kinds of fertilizer that affect grasses in unique ways. This guide will walk you through the best way to feed your lawn so you get the most out of it now, and year-round.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nIn the wild, grasses draw nutrition from decomposing organic material. It’s not as simple when the grass is in someone’s yard, though. Grass planted in rich soil thrives with just some grass clippings as food. But when soil lacks nutrition, fertilizers are sent to the rescue.
\n\n\n\nFertilizers mainly supply lawns with three nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are abbreviated as N-P-K. Here’s what each of them does:
\n\n\n\n| Nutrient | Key Benefits |
| Nitrogen | • Helps rapid growth and protein synthesis • Increases leaf development for dense lawns |
| Phosphorus | • Helps early root growth • Promotes plant maturity and seed development |
| Potassium | • Increases drought and disease resistance |
Before you embark on your fertilizing journey, make sure that you:
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fertilization.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nHow much fertilizer you use (or if you fertilize at all) depends on a number of factors:
\n\n\n\n| Needs More Fertilizer | Needs Less Fertilizer |
| Kentucky bluegrass | Zoysiagrass |
| Perennial ryegrass | Turf-type tall fescue |
| Fine fescue |
What’s a soil test? A soil test analyzes the nutrient content, pH level, and other properties of the soil to determine how well your grass can grow. It identifies the nutrients your soil lacks and recommends the right fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nYou can do either a DIY soil test or send a soil sample to a laboratory for a detailed report. Purdue University recommends testing your soil every 3 to 5 years, but more frequent soil tests can be beneficial too.
\n\n\n\nIf you need to fertilize, Purdue University recommends fertilizing in these months for optimal performance:
\n\n\n\n| April | If you apply a pre-emergent herbicide, use a product with little to no nitrogen; if it does contain any nitrogen, it should be slow-release, ideally organic |
| May | If you didn’t fertilize in April, fertilize now with a product containing mostly slow-release nitrogen |
| June | Consider fertilizing with nitrogen if there’s been a severe disease outbreak |
| July | Fertilize with a product containing slow-release nitrogen if there have been above-average rainfalls or if you’ve been irrigating |
| August | Consider fertilizing with nitrogen if there’s been a severe disease outbreak |
| September | Fertilize with nitrogen |
| October | Consider fertilizing with nitrogen if there’s been a severe disease outbreak |
| November | Purdue University recommends using quick-release fertilizer in November, but be aware that it may be harmful to the environment and wildlife; slow-release fertilizer is better |
You may not need to fertilize this much; these tips are for the most high-maintenance lawns.
\n\n\n\nFor precise dosages and more information, you can check out this lawn care calendar from Purdue University.
\n\n\n\nWhen we talk about fertilizer, we’re often referring to chemical products. However, organic fertilizers are also effective and have the added benefit of being environmentally friendly. They release nutrients slowly over time, promoting healthy soil and plant growth.
\n\n\n\nThere are many options for fertilizing your lawn organically, but they can be summed up into these two categories:
\n\n\n\nBecause organic fertilizers are natural, many people think that they’re harmless. The truth is, organic fertilizers still contain ingredients that may harm people and animals. Plus, animals are often attracted to some organic fertilizers because of their smell. Moreover, many store-bought fertilizers are mixed with hazardous ingredients to make them more efficient.
\n\n\n\nSo what’s the bottom line? Regardless of which fertilizer you use, be cautious and follow the instructions carefully.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Different-Fertilizer.jpg\")
Photo Credit: CanvaPro
\n\n\n\nApart from organic and inorganic fertilizers, fertilizers are further categorized so that homeowners can get a product that’s right for their needs.
\n\n\n\nYou can choose from dry or liquid fertilizers:
\n\n\n\nIt’s also important to note the difference between slow- and quick-release fertilizers:
\n\n\n\nIn summary, most lawns can benefit from using slow-release fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nThere are some conditions that aren’t ideal for fertilizing. Those include:
\n\n\n\nFeeding your lawn the right nutrients is vital to its overall health and appearance. But it’s necessary that you also perform other maintenance jobs throughout the year, such as mowing, watering, overseeding, and so forth.
\n\n\n\nSounds like a lot of work? Wikilawn connects you to the best best Indiana lawn care pros so let them take yard care off your to-do list.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Canva Pro
\n","title":"How (And When) to Fertilize Your Lawn in Indiana","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/1789c/Fertilizer-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/107df/Fertilizer-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/293e9/Fertilizer-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/f2cbb/Fertilizer-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/1789c/Fertilizer-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/c26c2/Fertilizer-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/1dd6e/Fertilizer-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/67b76/Fertilizer-1.webp 320w,\n/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/8df11/Fertilizer-1.webp 500w,\n/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/98a65/Fertilizer-1.webp 800w,\n/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/1dd6e/Fertilizer-1.webp 960w,\n/static/56d31d86a8f5a702c7ed840a266e1d20/3cc96/Fertilizer-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How (And When) to Fertilize Your Lawn in Indiana | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Make sure your lawn gets fed with all the nutrients it craves. Here’s when and how to fertilize your lawn in Indiana."}}},{"node":{"id":"f608fbe5-2120-5d01-a50c-a9820f45fa6e","slug":"difference-between-dead-and-dormant-grass","path":"/blog/home-and-garden/difference-between-dead-and-dormant-grass/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"October 9th, 2019","excerpt":"Grass can go kaput any time of year. The hot, dry conditions of summer can leave grass brown and unappealing. Winter snow mold and thatch buildup can leave your grass with dead spots. But is it really dead? Or just dormant? Before taking any action, it’s worth your time to determine if you have a […]
\n","content":"\nGrass can go kaput any time of year. The hot, dry conditions of summer can leave grass brown and unappealing. Winter snow mold and thatch buildup can leave your grass with dead spots. But is it really dead? Or just dormant?
\n\n\n\nBefore taking any action, it’s worth your time to determine if you have a dead lawn or just one that’s taking a nap. You don’t want to rip up a living lawn. Nor do you want to waste time mowing, watering, fertilizing, and trying to revive grass that isn’t coming back.
\n\n\n\nDead grass and dormant grass look much the same. It can be tough to tell the difference, but here’s what the experts say about discerning dead from dormant.
\n\n\n\nDeath is final. But dormancy, while it can look similar, is your lawn’s natural reaction to stress. Even warm-season grasses may turn brown due to the stress of summer’s hot, dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nIf less than half your lawn is dead or you can see surviving green shoots among the brown, crunchy blades of grass, it’s worth a try to save it. It will be less costly than re-sodding the entire lawn. Aerate the lawn. Power aerators work best. Rent one if you don’t own one. Raking the yard will help remove much of the dead grass. Be sure to take up thatch and other debris. Add new grass seed where needed and fertilize and water.
\n\n\n\nIf the entire lawn is dead, there’s no way to save it. It’s time to start over by re-seeding or re-sodding the entire area.
\n\n\n\nDormancy is a lawn’s reaction to heat and a lack of water. The plant gives all its resources to the roots, rather than the leaves. While brown grass may not look very appealing, dormancy is normal and usually lasts around four weeks. As the season’s change and weather conditions become more ideal for grass, your healthy lawn should return. Still, there are some things you can do to push it along a bit.
\n\n\n\nStay away from weed killers and herbicides during dormancy. It can damage already stressed lawns, and it may turn out insects weren’t the problem after all. Kelley Klopp of the Utah State Extension office says, “It is often difficult to diagnose insect problems when the grass is dormant. Be certain you are dealing with an insect problem before using insecticides, and always read and follow label directions.”
\n\n\n\n![\"Watering](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Andw9lRYwcV2ira3fBZXtJbm0tik_FO1QDPhsTv36DbNUSEpQ8J3EOf6TygqImw1exrMUgvfHpHPH5_7qseCijSk4J0Cv2psjB1jEMRWalCOjdiTAx1Q8oKuPuueIeeaUoGrqmHW\")
You can change the design of your yard to help your lawn make it through a drought. Reduce the setting on your mower blades and keep the grass a bit longer. Reduce slopes, if possible, so water doesn’t run downhill and off the grass. Put a greater distance between trees and shrubs and prune regularly, keeping shade to a minimum. And add good topsoil, if necessary.
\n\n\n\nAlso, consider the climate where you live and choose an appropriate turfgrass. Cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue, thrive in temperatures between 68 and 77 degrees. Building a lawn from these varieties in a hot, dry climate can send them into dormancy early. It can also cause the grass to die. They fare much better in northern parts of the country.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses work well in temperatures of 80 to 95 degrees, as they’re more drought-tolerant. They include Bermuda grass, Buffalo grass, and Zoysia grass, one of the better turfgrasses for hot climates. These lawns are usually started from sod, as they are more challenging to grow from grass seed than cool-season types.
\n\n\n\nBefore you ask “Why is my lawn dying?” make sure it’s not just taking a nap. With a little TLC (tender lawn care,) you’ll have a green lawn again before you know it.
Southeast Texas town, Corpus Christi, and its seven barrier islands are well-versed in hurricane preparedness. Historically, Texans can expect a tropical cyclone to make landfall along a 50-mile segment of its coast once every six years. While these odds may sound good, the only state that has experienced more hurricanes in its history is Florida. […]
\n","content":"\nSoutheast Texas town, Corpus Christi, and its seven barrier islands are well-versed in hurricane preparedness. Historically, Texans can expect a tropical cyclone to make landfall along a 50-mile segment of its coast once every six years. While these odds may sound good, the only state that has experienced more hurricanes in its history is Florida.
\n\n\n\nLike residents of the Sunshine State, Southeast Texans know it pays to be prepared, especially with homes and yards. Here are some hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas to help you prepare your landscape for the Texas hurricane season.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n10 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Corpus Christi
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Corpus Christi Landscaping
\n\n\n\n![\"large](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/rsz_8981885395_5d7589d6b6_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: denisbin / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe recognized hurricane wind scale has five categories, ranging from Category 1 “some damage” up to Category 5 “catastrophic.” All it takes is sustained winds of 90 mph or more to uproot large trees, and even Category 1 hurricanes sustain winds between 74 to 95 mph. With 21% of all U.S. hurricanes making landfall in Texas, it is important to plant wind-resistant trees to protect your home and neighborhood from flying branches and falling trees.
\n\n\n\nAccording to Texas A&M, wind-resistant Corpus Christi tree species include:
\n\n\n\nTrees to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of wind-resistant trees:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The average cost of a hurricane-resistant tree varies depending on the size and type of tree, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local nursery to purchase your tree, you can expect to spend between $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\nLike most Corpus Christi residents, you have a storm preparedness checklist ready for hurricane season, but no matter how much you plan, you know there is no way to protect your home and yard from storm damage completely. Selecting wind-resistant trees and thoroughly planning your hurricane-resistant landscape increases your plants’ survival chances during a storm.
\n\n\n\nSome things to consider as you plan your hurricane-resistant landscape include:
\n\n\n\nNative South Texas plants are the most salt and wind-tolerant plants you can include in your landscaping project, and they have the added benefits of being incredibly low-maintenance and drought-tolerant plants. Native plants promote a healthy ecosystem and thrive in Corpus Christi’s subtropical climate. These plants are hands-off and resistant to local insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Texas native plants and groundcovers to choose from. Take a look at some of the most salt-tolerant types:
\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![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-pathway-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nWeekly lawn maintenance is daunting, and Texas summers are hot. The fewer plants in your backyard landscape, the less time you will spend maintaining your lawn and garden. While some hardscaping ideas like loose rocks are best left to the inland cities of Central Texas like Austin and San Antonio, there are still many hurricane-safe hardscaping options to add sustainable visual interest to your landscape while eliminating weekly maintenance.
\n\n\n\nHurricane-safe hardscape options include:
\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, and $3,000 for a flagstone walkway.
\n\n\n\nRoutine maintenance, including pruning and trimming, helps maintain healthy trees, and healthy trees are sturdy trees. Be sure to keep your hedges, shrubs, and trees pruned or trimmed to cut down on the number and size of branches flying across your yard during a tropical storm.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of landscape maintenance:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional tree trimming and landscape maintenance costs between $315 to $700, depending on the size of your yard and the number of trees and shrubs.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mulch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: christina rutz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMulch comes in many forms and colors. It is a type of xeriscaping, a practice focused on low-maintenance landscaping and water conservation. Mulching is an inexpensive DIY job with enormous benefits for your Corpus Christi lawn. It is a loose material typically made of organic matter like compost, tree bark, and wood chips that helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from the summer heat.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch is the best option for your South Texas landscape. It adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes, but you will need to add a fresh layer annually. Inorganic mulches like gravel, river rock, and landscape glass are low-maintenance and durable, but the hard pieces ricochet off windows and siding during a hurricane.
\n\n\n\nBest mulch for your Corpus Christi landscape:
\n\n\n\nMulch to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag. If your landscaping project requires a lot of mulch, you can often purchase it in bulk to save money.
\n\n\n\nStatues, flower containers, bird baths, small fountains, and patio furniture are all great additions that add a personal touch to your South Texas oasis. Unfortunately, these objects are no match for hurricane-force winds. Be sure to remove all movable storm hazards to minimize damage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: There is no cost to move your landscaping decorations or furniture indoors. However, if you are short on space and want to maximize your storm preparedness, you can rent a storage unit for around $125 per month.
\n\n\n\nLike trees, some fences cannot stand up to strong winds. Fortunately, many Gulf Coast fence contractors specialize in hurricane-resistant fencing and reinforcement. Be sure to note that wood fences are not the best choice for wind-resistant fencing. However, if the sustainability and natural beauty of wood are something you cannot live without, be sure to choose a slatted fence design to minimize wind resistance.
\n\n\n\nTake a look at some of the most wind-resistant fence types:
\n\n\n\nFence types to avoid:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional fence installation costs between $1,330 to $5,550, depending on size, materials, and location.
\n\n\n\nThe average elevation of Corpus Christi is only 25 feet above sea level, and thanks to the city’s subtropical climate and seven barrier islands, waterfront homes are popular in the luxury real estate market. When planning your hurricane-resistant landscape, consider your proximity to the water. Building a seawall around your property protects your home and landscape from tumultuous surf, flooding, and erosion.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular hurricane-resistant seawall materials:
\n\n\n\nMaterials to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a seawall:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, a new seawall costs $25,000 for professional installation.
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_130120082286_399903e227_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dan Keck / Flickr / Public Domain
\n\n\n\nEvery year Corpus Christi has a 74% chance of experiencing a flood, which is the equivalent of one flood every 16 months. Storm drains are an integral part of the city’s infrastructure and your overall landscape.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, many homeowners often overlook these necessities because they offer little aesthetic value. Yard waste and organic debris can clog your drains, leading to increased flooding and water damage. Be sure to keep paths to your drains clear by maintaining your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of proper drainage:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional French drain installation costs between $1,650 to $12,250, depending on location, size, and excavation needs.
\n\n\n\nThe best hurricane-resistant grasses for your Corpus Christi landscape are St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and seashore paspalum. These grass types tolerate saltwater spray and are great warm-season grasses. Both Zoysiagrass and seashore paspalum stand up better to heavy traffic.
Yes. Most artificial grass is wind-resistant and can withstand up to 50 inches of rain per hour. Most hurricanes generate precipitation at a rate of 6 inches per hour.
In Texas, hurricane season falls between June 1 and Nov. 30, with peak occurrences from August through September.
Check hurricane-resistant landscaping off your preparedness list and start focusing on other preparation areas. Consider letting Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company that can handle your lawn care needs so you can focus on other areas of your landscape design.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Robloxsupersuperhappyface / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
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\n","content":"\nYou can admire Durham’s captivating native plants in local forests and parks, but why not also grow them in your own yard? Not only will they be a beautiful addition to your property, but they’re good for the environment and easier to care for than non-natives.
\n\n\n\nRead on to find out more about native plants that work well in your Durham yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t already have native plants growing in your garden, it’s time to make the switch. Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil, and they’re beneficial in numerous ways. For example:
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Highbush_blueberries.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ryjial Christianson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAs you may have guessed, the highbush blueberry isn’t just a feast for the eyes. The plant’s bell-shaped blossoms give way to delicious blueberries that are perfect for snacking. Moreover, the highbush blueberry provides food for wildlife. In fact, watch out; once your blueberries ripen, birds may like them so much that you need to cover them with netting.
\n\n\n\nBlueberries take about 6 to 8 years to fully mature, but you can plant different cultivars together to increase your berry yield. If you want optimal growth, use acidic soil and remove spent flowers regularly. Starting in the third year after planting, prune your blueberry plant as needed. Laying organic mulch is also beneficial for your highbush blueberries to grow healthy.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Edible shrub
Hardiness zones: 3 to 8
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: High (1 inch of water per week)
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy; acidic, organically rich, well-drained, medium to wet
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 12 feet
Potential hazards: None known
![\"3,4](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3890892940_425fc87659_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: RHal4D / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nRiver birch, also called water birch, black birch, and red birch, can be a beautiful addition to your landscape the whole year round. This tree can reach 60 feet at maturity, and, because it naturally grows along riverbanks, it thrives in wet weather. However, it handles periods of drought relatively well, too.
\n\n\n\nYou can help your river birch tree stay hydrated by giving it a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch. The best time to trim the tree is in late spring or early fall. Don’t prune in spring when its sap is running.
\n\n\n\nNote that the tree has toxic effects if any part of it is consumed.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
Hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet, moist, acidic, fertile; tolerates drier soils and poor drainage
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 30 to 60 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red_maple_leaves.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Heng Wang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe red maple is notorious for its samaras, sometimes called “helicopter seeds.” These winged seeds spin when they fall from the tree, creating a fun and unique display. The tree is also the first to bloom in spring and change color in the fall, making it a showy addition to your yard throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it will take a number of years, the tree can grow up to as high as 120 feet in full sun or partial shade. The tree tolerates many kinds of soil, but to retain moisture and keep your red maple healthy, you should lay a layer of mulch.
\n\n\n\nHowever, take note that the red maple is highly toxic to humans and animals, especially its leaves and bark. If you have children or pets, make sure they don’t ingest any part of the tree.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
Hardiness zones: 2 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet, well-drained; tolerant of various soils but prefers moist, slightly acidic soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 40 to 120 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Rhododendron_atlanticum_-_Rendeux_9c_1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe coastal azalea forms a dense hedge, creating privacy and curb appeal. It has fragrant flowers that are a magnet for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Depending on the variety and your soil type, your coastal azalea may grow up to 8 feet tall, but it usually grows up to 2 to 3 feet tall.
\n\n\n\nYou should ideally provide your azalea with consistent moisture, but make sure that your soil is well-draining to avoid root rot. Because most of Durham has clay-heavy Utisol soil, it’s advisable to plant your azalea in a raised flower bed.
\n\n\n\nTo keep your azalea looking its best, clip off its spent flower clusters after bloom. Mulching can help the soil retain moisture and manage its temperature. Full sun exposure can damage the plant, so make sure you provide it with the right amount of shade.
\n\n\n\nTake note: azaleas are severely toxic. Don’t eat any part of the plant, and make sure children and pets stay away from it.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering shrub
Hardiness zones: 1 to 8 (some may grow shorter, depending on variety and soil type)
Sun: Partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Light, acidic, sandy, well-drained; tolerates well-drained humusy loams
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 2 to 6 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8173412518_9b3cd7aa35_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrey Zharkikh / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLance-leaved coreopsis, also called tickseed, is a lovely yellow wildflower that can grow up to 2 feet even in bare areas. It doesn’t only look appealing to the human eye but also attracts pollinators and birds.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial wildflower is quite durable and resists heat, drought, and humidity. Because the plant spreads so easily, make sure to contain it so that it doesn’t overtake your garden. On the other hand, if you want to encourage new blooms, you should deadhead your lance-leaved coreopsis flowers with scissors.
\n\n\n\nThere are various plants in the Coreopsis species, and they’re generally seen as non-toxic. However, there isn’t a lot of data about the toxicity of lance-leaved coreopsis in particular, and there are some reports of toxicity to livestock Because the plant may have toxic effects, it’s always better to be cautious.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Wildflower
Hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Loamy, sandy, dry to medium moisture, well-drained; ideally poor, sandy or rocky soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 3 feet
Potential hazards: Some reports of toxicity
![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3972750375_f55529b403_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Pavelka / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAre you looking to add a pop of color to your yard? Consider planting the American beautyberry, which produces clusters of bright purple berries in the fall. The berries are not only beautiful but also a valuable food source for birds during the winter months. Moreover, the American beautyberry can even act as a natural mosquito repellant.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, you’ll be glad to find out that this shrub is relatively easy to care for. The American beautyberry doesn’t have any big problems with pests, and it can also handle some drought, though too much of it could be a problem.
\n\n\n\nYou may need to prune your American beautyberry in winter if you want to encourage more growth. Also, make sure to remove dead wood in spring. The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade.
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry is listed as non-toxic to humans on calpoison.org. Its berries can even be made into jelly. However, some sources report that they may have mildly toxic effects. To find out more information, you can discuss any dietary changes with a medical professional. Because there’s a lack of data about the plant’s toxicity to domestic animals, you should keep them from eating it.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
Hardiness zones: 6 to 10
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Low
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter; tolerant of various soil types as long as it gets good drainage
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 8 feet
Potential hazards: Mild toxic effects reported; a lack of data regarding toxicity to pets
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/winter-berry-tree-background.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a bit of color to your lawn through the winter, the winterberry holly, also known as the black alder, is a fitting choice. The plant features red berries throughout the winter and also provides food and shelter for birds and pollinators in the summer.
\n\n\n\nWhile it can grow in the shade, this shrub also tolerates heat and drought. It handles wet, swampy, or boggy conditions and both light and heavy soils. Its preference is, however, for moist, organic, acidic soils. Moreover, the winterberry holly is susceptible to some plant diseases, so make sure that you address any signs of infection promptly.
\n\n\n\nTake note that although the plant provides food for wildlife, it’s toxic to humans, domestic animals, and livestock, including dogs, cats, and horses.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree or large shrub
Hardiness zones: 3 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade, deep shade
Water needs: Moderate
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet soils; ideally moist, organic and acidic soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 15 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/766px-Heartleaf_aster_1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Nadiatalent / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe heart-leaved aster is also called the heart-leaved American aster and blue wood aster. It produces delicate blue-purple wildflowers that attract butterflies and bees.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for an easy-care plant, the heart-leaved aster is a great option. It’s resilient and low-maintenance, and can thrive in partial shade. Provide it with good air circulation to avoid diseases.
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t deadhead your heart-leaved aster, it’s likely to self-seed. Moreover, you should pinch back stems a number of times before mid-July if you want to control the plant’s look and height. If you do this, you may not need to stake the plant.
\n\n\n\nLittle is known about the hazards of the heart-leaved aster. However, the aster species includes many different types of plants, some of which are severely toxic, so practice caution.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
Hardiness zones: 3 to 8
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Low
Soil: Loamy, sandy, average, well-drained; ideally rich and dry to moist (not too moist)
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: Typically 2 to 5 feet; occasionally can grow to 6 feet
Potential hazards: None known due to a lack of data; other plants of the species are highly toxic, so practice caution
![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3912256151_865e2a4b51_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a dash of vibrance to your landscape, you can consider switchgrass. Not only can it grow quite tall, but it stands out with its colorful foliage.
\n\n\n\nThe first shoots of this tall grass emerge in the summer and brighten up the space with a burst of green. As fall approaches, it turns red and purple. Finally, switchgrass stays yellow throughout the winter.
\n\n\n\nWhile this ornamental grass prefers moist, clay, or sandy soils, it can grow in a variety of soils. Overly rich soils may cause the grass to flop. You should cut your switchgrass clumps back between late winter and early spring.
\n\n\n\nSwitchgrass is also a source of food for pollinators and birds. However, it’s toxic to some animals, so be cautious with your pets.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Ornamental grass
Hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet; prefers moist clay or sandy soil; can tolerate periods of drought and flooding
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 6 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic to some animals
![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/35788220756_6c924b709e_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is also known as orange milkweed. The milkweed family is the only host plant for monarch caterpillars as well as a delicious food source for adult butterflies. Apart from butterflies, hummingbirds also like to snack on butterfly weed’s nectar.
\n\n\n\nApart from being an important natural food for wildlife, butterfly weed can also look amazing on your lawn. It may take up to 2 or 3 years to establish, but after that, you’ll get a yearly display of bright orange flowers.
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to caring for your butterfly weed, think about the right spot to plant it. It should stay in its place once established and not be transplanted because of its deep taproot. To thrive, it should grow in full sun. It’s drought tolerant, so warm summer weather shouldn’t pose a problem. If you don’t want your butterfly weed to self-seed, remove seed pods before they split open.
\n\n\n\nTake caution; butterfly weed is a toxic plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
Hardiness zones: 4 to 10
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Low
Soil: Sandy, poor, average, dry to medium, well-drained
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 2 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/47964802722_6865f7b1d4_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nGreen and gold has delicate, golden-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Don’t let its outward appearance fool you, though. This evergreen ground cover is resilient and can withstand weeds and diseases. Moreover, it also attracts songbirds and pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThis ground cover is also perfect for filling in gaps between other plants in your garden because it grows in shady areas. If your turfgrass can’t handle the shade, green and gold is a great option to make your lawn look complete and lush. Just watch out for mildew and contain the plant by removing spent flower stems.
\n\n\n\nGreen and gold has no known toxic effects, but it isn’t confirmed to be non-toxic either, so always proceed with caution.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Ground cover
Hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Sun: Partial shade, deep shade; tolerates full sun only if it grows in consistently moist soils
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Loamy, medium moisture, average, well-drained; ideally moist, acidic, rich with organic matter
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 2 inches
Potential hazards: None known (lack of data)
Each Durham native has its own unique characteristics. Make sure you consider the unique traits of the plant, such as soil needs, shade needs, and potential hazards, before you pick the plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAlso, take note that just because a plant doesn’t have known hazards doesn’t mean it’s completely safe, so be careful and keep an eye on children and pets around all plants. If you want to know about the medicinal or edible uses of any plant, consult a medical professional.
\n\n\n\nOne more important thing to consider is your area’s hardiness zone. Durham’s hardiness zone is 7b, which means its minimum temperatures are between 5 and 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Any plants you get need to match this hardiness zone to handle Durham’s coldest weather conditions. But there’s no cause for concern; all the plants in this article are a good fit for Durham’s climate.
\n\n\n\nDurham has a number of stunning native plants. But if you spot any of them in nature, don’t bring them home. Moving plants out of their natural habitat can disrupt the ecosystem and harm wildlife. Instead, get your plants ethically from local nurseries.
\n\n\n\nExamples of Durham nurseries are:
\n\n\n\nOnce you pick your natives, you’re one step closer to establishing a beautiful landscape, but you’re not done just yet. Don’t forget to also pick the right grass type. and consider all the maintenance work you’ll need to do throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to provide your landscape with the right care, consider hiring one of WikiLawn’s local pros who can handle it for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Red maple / David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"11 Native Plants That Will Make Your Durham, NC, Yard Pop","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1789c/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg","srcSet":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/107df/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 320w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/293e9/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 500w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/f2cbb/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 800w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1789c/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 960w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/c26c2/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1dd6e/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/67b76/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 320w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/8df11/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 500w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/98a65/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 800w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1dd6e/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 960w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/3cc96/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Native Plants That Will Make Your Durham, NC, Yard Pop | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"When it comes to Durham grass types, there are a variety of options. Let’s see which ones are right for your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"e0abbfa5-a5e1-5f56-876b-5766c255217a","slug":"grass-types-san-antonio","path":"/lawn-care/tx/san-antonio/grass-types-san-antonio/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"be366c94-0b46-5716-9ac2-ed152902f864","name":"San Antonio","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/san-antonio/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 13th, 2020","excerpt":"Texas is a warm season area for most of the year, and your lawn will thrive with a warm season grass. A clear understanding of what kind your lawn has ensures you’re grass cutting and maintaining appropriately. The most common warm season grasses used in Texas are as follows: Bermudagrass This is the most popular […]
\n","content":"\nTexas is a warm season area for most of the year, and your lawn will thrive with a warm season grass. A clear understanding of what kind your lawn has ensures you’re grass cutting and maintaining appropriately. The most common warm season grasses used in Texas are as follows:
\n\n\n\nThis is the most popular kind of grass in Texas. It’s known to be very resilient against disease and pests. The more you mow this grass, the thicker it grows. This also makes it more able to withstand traffic than other turf grasses, meaning Bermudagrass is best suited for families with pets and/or children.
\n\n\n\nYou should keep Bermudagrass at 1.5 inches tall and have little to no shade over it. Mowing it when it reaches 2.25 inches will give the best results.
\n\n\n\nThis is the second most popular grass in Texas, as it’s cheap and doesn’t require a whole lot of maintenance, but can’t handle a lot of foot traffic. This grass is best for use during the summer because it becomes brittle and brown in the winter. Overseeding with a cool season grass like Ryegrass during the winter is the best way to keep your lawn looking fresh if you primarily use Raleigh St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nOne drawback of this grass is that it’s very susceptible to chinch bugs and brown patch disease. It’s best kept at 3-4 inches long and requires almost no shade at all.
\n\n\n\nThis grass is very low maintenance and is native to Texas. It’s typically found in West Texas growing wild along highways. It has low potential for disease and low fertilization and lawn mowing requirements. It’s best kept at a height of 5-6 inches and needs only 1 inch of water per month to thrive. It does not do well in shade.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass has the best shade tolerance of all the grasses on this list, making it perfect for East Texas where shade is much more abundant. It’s very low maintenance and handles traffic decently well.
\n\n\n\nIt requires about .5 inches of water to sustain itself and about .75 inches during the growing season. It’s best kept at a height of 2 inches and should be mowed when it reaches 3 inches.
\n","title":"The 4 Most Common Grass Types in San Antonio","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/1789c/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/107df/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/293e9/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/f2cbb/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/1789c/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/4fb49/palisades-zoysia-grass.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/1dd6e/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/67b76/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/8df11/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/98a65/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/1dd6e/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/561fd763b2ea91327a1d05e9a08d007a/62477/palisades-zoysia-grass.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 4 Most Common Grass Types in San Antonio | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"aa1f8a5e-a3cc-513e-bc2b-c928c3b74445","slug":"when-and-how-to-fertilize-your-lawn","path":"/blog/when-and-how-to-fertilize-your-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Taha Javed is a freelance writer and business student in Lahore, Pakistan. She loves swimming, reading, and playing with her dog.","name":"Taha Javed","id":"0531d17c-e9c8-5153-a6fb-6e2994f71716","path":"/author/taha-javed/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/877749883781783414fae4d0b98beb69?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"July 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Maintaining a healthy, green lawn is a top concern for many homeowners, and fertilization is key to achieving this. Like any living thing, your grass requires nutrients to grow and thrive. Fertilizers are specifically developed to replenish these nutrients. But it’s important to know when and how to fertilize your lawn to make the most […]
\n","content":"\nMaintaining a healthy, green lawn is a top concern for many homeowners, and fertilization is key to achieving this. Like any living thing, your grass requires nutrients to grow and thrive. Fertilizers are specifically developed to replenish these nutrients. But it’s important to know when and how to fertilize your lawn to make the most of it.
\n\n\n![\"Fertilizers](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_14457202926_6d52aae30a_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jerry Norbury / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to fertilizing your lawn, timing is everything. The answer to the “when” question depends on the following:
\n\n\n\nBut there is one general rule: Don’t feed the lawn during periods of dormancy – only fertilize your grass at the time of year when it grows actively.
\n\n\n\nThere are two types of grasses: warm-season grasses and cool-season grasses, and both have different growth and fertilization requirements. You have cool-season grass if you live in the northern third of the country and warm-season grass if you live in the southern third. If you live in the middle of the US, you may have either or both types of grass.
\n\n\n\nBut what is the right time to fertilize either of them? Here is the answer:
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass grow actively in cooler months. Usually, the grass grows most actively in fall, so the best time to fertilize your lawn is once in early fall and once in late fall, at least 6 weeks before the expected first frost. During these times, the grass is actively developing and can best use the fertilizer’s nutrients.
\n\n\n\nYou can also apply fertilizer to your lawn in early spring because it’s the time when the grass greens up after winter dormancy and has a brief period of growth before the heat of summer sets in. It is the optimal time if you want to apply a third application of fertilizer to your lawn in addition to those done in fall.
\n\n\n![\"Cool](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cool-Season-Warm-Season-Transition-Zone-1024x709.jpg\")
Illustration by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, warm-season grasses, such as Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, or Zoysiagrass, have totally different fertilization times. Because they actively grow in the warmer months, late spring and early summer is usually the best time to apply fertilizer. This helps the grass to receive nutrients during its active development phase while remaining lush throughout the summer.
\n\n\n\nIf you want a fall fertilizer application, early fall, at least 6-8 weeks before the first frost, is also suitable for your warm-season lawn.
\n\n\n\nYou can read our guide to the ideal lawn fertilizer schedule to learn more about when to fertilize your lawn.
\n\n\n\nGenerally, apply fertilizer to your lawn two to four times per year. The frequency might vary depending on the type of grass, the makeup of your soil, the local climate of your area, and the type of fertilizer used. Slow-release fertilizers remain in the soil for 6-8 weeks, so you should wait at least 6 weeks between applications. Immediate-release fertilizers need to be applied more often to remain effective, about every 4-6 weeks.
\n\n\n\nThe most common frequency recommendation for lawn fertilizer application is:
\n\n\n\nOnce you’re sure you’ve got the timing right, follow these steps to fertilize your lawn in the best and most efficient way possible.
\n\n\n\n![\"Soil](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soil-Testing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nBefore applying fertilizer to your lawn, you should do a few things to ensure the best results and minimize any potential harm to your grass or the environment. Preparing your lawn ahead of time will set up the foundation for successful fertilization.
\n\n\n\nSoil tests are like bloodwork for your soil. They describe the type of soil, the level of plant nutrients, and the soil pH, among other things. Get your soil tested by sending a sample to your local county Cooperative Extension office or buy an at-home test kit for quicker but less detailed results.
\n\n\n\nBased on the soil test results, amend your soil to make it adaptable for the turfgrass and fertilizer. Adjust the soil’s pH so that it’s between 6.5 to 7 (ideal for most grass types) by adding lime for lawns to increase the pH or sulfur to decrease the pH.
\n\n\n\nRemove any lawn weeds, moss, or excessive thatch growth in your lawn before fertilizing. Obstacles like these can prevent fertilizer from reaching the soil, which is where it needs to be for your grass to absorb its nutrients.
\n\n\n\nIdeally, you should mow the grass slightly lower than its typical maintenance height before fertilizing. Shorter grass permits the fertilizer to reach the soil more effectively and reduces the possibility of the fertilizer sitting on top of tall blades and causing burn or uneven distribution.
\n\n\n\nWater your lawn well for at least three to four days before fertilizing it. Moist soil improves nitrogen uptake and reduces the risk of fertilizer burn. Overwatering, on the other hand, can cause the fertilizer to seep away or become less effective.
\n\n\n\n![\"hand-held](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_114848000106_62e914cb15_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jerry Norbury / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nIt is essential to apply lawn fertilizer carefully to ensure nutrients reach the plant roots and deliver maximum benefits.
\n\n\n\nFirst, choose the right tool according to your lawn’s area and fertilizer type. There are various kinds of fertilizer spreaders, including:
\n\n\n\nFill your chosen tool with fertilizer on a non-grassy, hard surface like a driveway or sidewalk. This keeps spills or excess fertilizer from reaching the grass before you begin, which again reduces the risk of fertilizer burn.
\n\n\n\nStart Applying the Fertilizer: Begin walking across your lawn at a slow, steady pace, pushing the spreader consistently. If you’re using a sprayer, spray a wide arc in front of you, from side to side, as you walk. Then turn around and walk the other way in a line parallel to your first pass. Continue walking back and forth across the lawn in parallel lines until you’ve covered the whole area.
\n\n\n\nTo achieve thorough coverage and eliminate missed spots, overlap each pass slightly. If you’re using a granular fertilizer, check the grass for any prominent clumps or heaps of granules once you’ve finished applying it. Use a sweep or rake to disperse these clumps to ensure even dispersion.
\n\n\n\nNote: After each usage, properly clean your spreader or sprayer. Rinse it with water to remove any residual fertilizer, which can damage the equipment if not removed.
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_150456484_cef7d54b8f_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Shaylor / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nWatering your lawn after fertilizing is essential for activating the nutrients in the fertilizer and ensuring optimum absorption by the grass’s roots. It is best to water your grass immediately after fertilizing it. This reduces the risk of burn from concentrated nutrients lingering on the grass blades.
\n\n\n\nUse an in-ground sprinkler system or a hose with a sprinkler attachment for even coverage. To avoid overwatering certain areas and underwatering others, make sure the water is distributed evenly across the lawn.
\n\n\n\nNote: If you use liquid fertilizer, wait two to four hours for the fertilizer to dry, and then water your lawn. Don’t water immediately after applying liquid fertilizer because it will wash the fertilizer away before it’s had time to soak into the soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"broom](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/broom-for-sweeping-sidewalk-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: undefined undefined / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIn addition to cleaning your spreader or sprayer, it’s important to clean excess fertilizer off impervious surfaces near your grass, such as a driveway or patio. For granular fertilizers, sweep off any granules that may have landed on sidewalks or driveways to prevent runoff into nearby bodies of water. Fertilizer runoff can cause water pollution and harmful algae blooms.
\n\n\n\nBe especially diligent about sweeping up excess fertilizer if you have curious pets or small children in your family who might try to play with or even eat the tiny granules.
\n\n\n\nChoosing the right fertilizer for your lawn is critical. First of all, check your soil’s nutrient requirements through your soil test. Then select a fertilizer with a suitable nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus ratio according to your soil’s needs.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to finding a lawn fertilizer with the right nutrient blend, you’ll need to decide what type of fertilizer is best for your lawn. You’ll have to choose between slow-release and immediate-release fertilizers, synthetic and organic fertilizers, and liquid and granular fertilizers.
\n\n\n\nTo learn more about each of these options and figure out which one is best for you, see our guide on How to Choose Lawn Fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nYes, organic fertilizers are an excellent choice for lawn care. They come from natural sources and provide slow-release nutrients that improve soil health and microbial activity. Organic fertilizers are less harmful to the environment and contribute towards eco-friendly lawn care.
\n\n\n\nLook for organic fertilizers designed exclusively for lawns in our guide to organic lawn fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nIt’s critical to act quickly if you mistakenly over-fertilize. Thoroughly water the lawn to help dilute and flush out extra nitrogen and other nutrients. Mow as little as possible until the grass recovers, and consider skipping the next scheduled fertilization to let the grass rebalance. If extensive damage develops, such as the grass turning brown, your grass may be dead. Seek the advice of a lawn care specialist to figure out the best path forward.
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to avoid fertilizing during periods of excessive heat or drought. High heat and dry weather can cause stress on the grass, and fertilization during this time may worsen the stress.
\n\n\n\nRegular fertilization not only improves the general health and appearance of your lawn, but it also increases its resistance to external stressors like severe temperatures and foot traffic. It’s an essential technique contributing to a beautiful, healthy lawn you can enjoy all year. For help keeping up with a regular fertilization schedule, connect with a local lawn care pro on WikiLawn today.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: SVproduction / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"When and How To Fertilize Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/1789c/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/107df/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/293e9/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/f2cbb/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/1789c/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/c26c2/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/1dd6e/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/67b76/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 320w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/8df11/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 500w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/98a65/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 800w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/1dd6e/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 960w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/3cc96/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"When and How To Fertilize Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"In this guide, learn when and how to fertilize your lawn the right way so you can have a lush, beautiful lawn all year-round."}}},{"node":{"id":"2bb2877e-a1dc-5827-9554-25da0fbb4015","slug":"drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-nevada","path":"/lawn-care/nv/drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-nevada/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"013fbac6-10a0-54dd-8196-03ea2813f6d0","name":"Nevada","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nv/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"Nevada, being the driest state in the country, is no stranger to drought. The intense heat and limited water supply can make maintaining a lush garden difficult and expensive. So, if you’re looking to save water and money while creating a stunning outdoor oasis, consider these 10 drought-resistant landscaping ideas for Nevada. A growing trend […]
\n","content":"\nNevada, being the driest state in the country, is no stranger to drought. The intense heat and limited water supply can make maintaining a lush garden difficult and expensive. So, if you’re looking to save water and money while creating a stunning outdoor oasis, consider these 10 drought-resistant landscaping ideas for Nevada.
\n\n\n\nA growing trend in sustainable landscaping has emerged, offering homeowners a way to create a beautiful outdoor space while reducing water usage. With drought-tolerant landscaping, you can choose plants and materials that require minimal watering.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nNevada’s scorching heat and drought conditions should not hinder you from creating a beautiful landscape design. Just because the desert climate can be harsh doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your landscaping.
\n\n\n\nDrought-resistant landscaping has numerous advantages. Not only is it perfectly suited for the hot, arid climate of Nevada, but it also helps in water conservation. Additionally, this type of landscaping has these benefits:
\n\n\n\nChoosing drought-tolerant plants and implementing water-saving techniques can help you create a beautiful and sustainable landscape that thrives even in the most challenging conditions.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to reduce water use while promoting low maintenance and eco-friendliness in your garden, these 10 drought-resistant landscaping ideas can help. With these tips, you can transform your yard into a stunning oasis that not only looks great but also helps conserve one of Nevada’s most precious resources – water.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/flowers-g5b9e0e5d7_1280-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nTired of spending hours mowing and maintaining your lawn every week? It might be time to ditch traditional grass and consider a more effortless option – drought-tolerant groundcovers. These low-growing plants quickly spread to form a beautiful, verdant carpet-like lawn.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of using groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nWhile groundcovers still require some watering and sunlight, they’re much less demanding than traditional grasses. Moreover, Nevada homeowners have a range of drought and heat-tolerant options to choose from, including:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Switching from turfgrass to groundcover can cost between $3.50 and $12.50 per square foot, depending on the groundcover type. Keep in mind that the expense may increase if you need to remove existing grass before planting.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/artificial-turf-g91d792f7e_1280-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nIf you’re still attached to the idea of a grass lawn but hate the maintenance, artificial turfgrass might be the answer. With this alternative, you’ll get the aesthetic appeal of a green lawn without having to spend time and resources on upkeep.
\n\n\n\nThanks to advancements in technology, artificial grass looks more realistic than ever before, so much so that it’s tough to distinguish it from the real thing. It’s a fantastic option for those who prefer a beautiful lawn without the work.
\n\n\n\nOpting for artificial turf provides several benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nNote: Why go through all the trouble of maintaining a natural grass lawn when you can choose the alternative that complies with Nevada’s grass ban? Although the installation costs for artificial turf may be steep, the long-term benefits are significant. With it, you can scratch off lawn maintenance and reduce your water consumption. Moreover, your city or utility company might be offering incentives and rebates to encourage the installation of artificial turf.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The installation cost of artificial turf depends on multiple factors, such as the shape and size of your yard as well as the specific type of faux grass you select. Typically, hiring a professional for artificial turf installation can cost between $5 and $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Joshua_Trees_Yucca_brevifolia_in_Joshua_Tree_National_Park-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Brocken Inaglory / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAnother way to reduce your landscaping maintenance and water consumption is to use native plants for your drought-tolerant garden. These water-efficient plants have evolved to thrive in the state’s unique climate, and they require minimal TLC to grow and flourish.
\n\n\n\nFortunately, many drought-tolerant plants are well-suited to Nevada’s conditions, and there are numerous native plants to choose from, including:
\n\n\n\nBefore incorporating native plants into your desert landscape, remember to choose the ones specifically native to your region. While some plants may thrive in Phoenix or Southern California, it doesn’t necessarily mean they can grow well in Las Vegas or other parts of Southern Nevada.
\n\n\n\nAlways choose native plants ideal for your location, so you can enjoy its benefits:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of planting new shrubs or trees, or creating a new flower bed, can be determined by various factors such as plant size, type, and the size of the area you want to cover. On average, the cost of planting a new shrub can cost anywhere from $25 to $50 per plant, while you can expect to pay between $150 and $3,000 for a tree. For those looking to add a new flower bed to their landscape, the cost can vary from $600 to $3,000.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bunch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Blackfoot-Daisy-Melampodium-leucanthum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zbigniew Niepokój / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nChoosing perennial plants for your landscape is a smart investment for homeowners who want to enjoy beautiful blooms beyond a single season. Unlike annuals, which need to be replanted every year, perennial plants can survive harsh winter conditions and regrow year after year.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to their resilience, perennials provide various benefits to homeowners:
\n\n\n\nTo ensure long-lasting beauty in your garden, you must select plants that are labeled as perennials when shopping for new additions. With the Southwest’s extreme heat, you’ll want to focus on heat-tolerant varieties that can thrive in the region. There are many exceptional perennials that can withstand the hot weather, including:
\n\n\n\nBy selecting the right perennials for your garden, you can enjoy a beautiful landscape year after year without the hassle of replanting every season.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: If you decide to do the planting yourself, the cost will depend on the specific type of perennials you choose. Expect to pay between $10 and $60 per plant, with some rare and exotic varieties costing even more. If you hire a landscaping professional, the cost will be higher, but they can get the job done more quickly and efficiently.
\n\n\n\n![\"Conserve](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Conserve-Water-With-Xeriscaping11.jpg\")
Photo Credit: RawPixel
\n\n\n\nCreating a water-wise xeriscape is a popular landscaping technique that homeowners in Nevada are using to combat dry desert climates. With xeriscaping, your garden will have little water requirements outside of natural rain.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nThe following can help you transform your outdoor space with xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nWith these xeriscaping tips, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape that conserves water and reduces your water bill. Although there is an upfront cost associated with converting to a water-efficient landscape, the benefits are substantial. Plus, you can enjoy long-term savings that far outweigh the initial investment.
\n\n\n\nIf transforming your entire landscape into a xeriscape seems daunting, start small by replacing your water-thirsty flower bed with succulents, cacti, or a decorative rock garden. Doing so also allows you to experiment with different desert landscaping plants and hardscape features without committing to a complete overhaul.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The typical cost for xeriscaping is between $1.50 and $2.50 per square foot. But xeriscaping can help you save money on maintenance costs – an average of 36 cents per square foot per year. So, while there may be an initial cost involved, the return on investment is well worth it in the end.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/rock-garden-wall.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nIf you want to save on your water bill and help conserve water, rock gardens are a fantastic alternative to a traditional garden. Not only do they require no water, but they also can be arranged in an endless number of ways to create a unique and eye-catching landscape.
\n\n\n\nYou can customize your rock garden to suit your style and your yard. Depending on your preferences, you could incorporate boulders, gravel, natural stone, or a mix of these into your design. Plus, you can add your favorite drought-resistant plants, garden ornaments, or even small water features for added interest.
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the many benefits a rock garden can provide:
\n\n\n\nBy using rocks of different sizes and shapes, you can create a natural rock formation or a modern design. The possibilities are endless, as there are no restrictions based on water or sunlight requirements. With rocks, you are only limited by your imagination.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for inspiration for your rock garden, consider some popular designs like the following:
\n\n\n\nOne way to lower the cost of a rock garden is to find the rocks yourself. You can usually find them at construction sites, quarries, or natural settings. However, remember that rocks can be heavy and difficult to transport, so handle them carefully.
\n\n\n\nAnother way to save money is to use affordable materials such as mulch, gravel, or recycled concrete. You can use these materials to create walkways, borders, and accents within your rock garden. Be creative and resourceful when designing a unique and stunning rock garden without breaking the bank.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Installing a rock garden can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000. Or, you can source your own rocks to significantly lower the price.
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2181805564_458df3fb74_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Seán A. O’Hara / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLooking for low-maintenance plants that can thrive in the Southwest’s desert environment? Why not try growing a succulent garden? These plants have evolved to survive in arid conditions by storing water in their thick leaves, making them perfect for drought-prone areas.
\n\n\n\nSome benefits of incorporating succulents into your landscape are:
\n\n\n\nSucculents are not only easy to care for but also add texture and interest to any yard. Even if you’re just starting out, succulents are a great choice for creating a beautiful and low-maintenance landscape.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Succulents come in all shapes, sizes, and prices, with factors such as species, rarity, and size determining their cost. While some smaller and more common types can be found for as low as $5, others could easily cost over $100 per plant, especially the larger or rarer ones.
\n\n\n\n![\"Mulch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Mulch-Your-Flower-Beds.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nTransforming your desert landscape into a beautiful oasis doesn’t have to be difficult or costly. One simple and affordable way to enhance your outdoor space is by mulching. Mulch is a loose material spread over the soil around your plants to improve soil health and water retention while suppressing weeds.
\n\n\n\nThere are two mulch types – organic and inorganic. Organic mulches, like pine straws and wood chips, improve soil quality and provide nutrients as they break down over time. However, they require annual replacement. Inorganic mulches, such as rubber nuggets and gravel, are more low-maintenance and last longer.
\n\n\n\nHere are some benefits of mulching:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The cost of mulch varies depending on the type of material used. While it may last longer than organic mulches, rubber mulch is often more expensive, ranging from $7 to $10 per 0.8-cubic-foot bag. Landscape gravel is more affordable, at around $4 to $30 per 0.5-cubic-foot bag, depending on the type of stone. Typically the most cost-effective option, wood mulch usually costs between $3 and $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/32233513968_9ed0aa0dc8_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Redi-Rock International / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBy incorporating hardscapes into your front yard, you can reduce the amount of maintenance required for plants and increase your curb appeal. Hardscapes are features made of non-living materials that add visual interest to your landscape. Here are some hardscapes to consider:
\n\n\n\nTransforming your outdoor space with hardscapes can be a great investment, but it’s important to know the costs upfront. While hardscapes can be expensive to install, they often provide a better return on investment, as they require less maintenance than plants. Plus, they only need occasional cleaning, helping you reduce water usage while increasing your home’s value.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Patios generally cost between $2,000 to $6,000, while deck installations can range from $4,000 to $11,000. For a stone paver project, expect to pay around $8 to $22 per square foot, depending on the type of stone material. If you want to add a fire pit, the cost can be between $500 and $3,000, while a pergola can range from $2,000 to $9,000.
\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 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re concerned about water conservation in Nevada, you might be surprised to learn that an automatic irrigation system can be a smart choice. Rather than using traditional sprinklers, which can waste a lot of water, consider installing a drip irrigation system.
\n\n\n\nDrip irrigation systems are designed to apply water directly to the roots of your plants, where it’s needed most. Instead of watering a large area all at once, a series of individual emitters deliver water to each plant or group of plants with similar water needs.
\n\n\n\nWith drip irrigation, you can easily adjust the amount of water that each emitter releases. This way, you can ensure your plants receive the right amount of water without any excess.
\n\n\n\nSome of the benefits of using a drip irrigation system include:
\n\n\n\nRegardless of whether you choose to hire a professional or do it yourself, a drip irrigation system can be a water-efficient and cost-effective choice for your landscape. By delivering water directly to the roots of your plants, you can reduce water waste and help your plants thrive.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: If you’re considering installing a drip irrigation system, the cost will depend on whether you choose to have it professionally installed or do it yourself. If you opt for a DIY installation, the cost can be significantly less. You can find drip irrigation kits for as low as $20, although the cost will vary based on the size of your project. Professional installation typically costs between $1.50 and $4.75 per square foot.
\n\n\n\nNevada faces severe drought conditions, making water conservation a critical issue. To address this, the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) has implemented a mandatory watering schedule that applies to all customers, including residential and commercial properties.
During summer, the schedule limits outdoor watering to three assigned days per week, while there’s one assigned day per week during winter. These watering restrictions apply to all sources of water, including municipal water, private wells, and water delivered by truck.
The SNWA has also implemented specific guidelines for outdoor watering. Watering is prohibited between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. during summer, as this is when evaporation rates are highest. Additionally, water cannot be allowed to flow off the property or onto the street or sidewalk. Violations of these restrictions can result in fines or other penalties.
Yes. While drought-resistant plants are known for their ability to withstand dry conditions, they still need watering to some extent. The key difference is that they require less water and can tolerate longer periods without it.
You need to provide enough water to establish the plant’s root system. But after that, you can reduce the watering frequency to promote deep root growth. In Nevada’s arid climate, it’s especially important to ensure the plants receive enough water during the hot summer months.
Before adding plants to your desert landscape, you must choose the ones that can withstand the harsh desert climate. Look for plants that are native to the desert or are well-suited to its unique conditions. Some characteristics to look for include:
With Nevada’s scarce water resources and temperatures reaching scorching heights in the summer, creating an attractive and sustainable outdoor space requires thoughtful planning.
\n\n\n\nWith these ten drought-tolerant landscaping ideas, you can reduce water usage and create a stunning landscape tailored to Nevada’s unique environment. From using native plants to installing artificial turf, there are numerous creative and eco-friendly ways to beautify your property without breaking the bank or depleting the state’s limited water supply.
There’s no better time to invest in the future of your home and the environment than today. Whether you live in Las Vegas, Reno, or another city in Nevada, reach out to a local landscaping pro and let them help you switch to water-efficient landscaping.
Main Image Credit: Lawn Las Vegas / André Corboz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"10 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Nevada","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4851485148514851,"src":"/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/1789c/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.jpg","srcSet":"/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/107df/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.jpg 320w,\n/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/293e9/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.jpg 500w,\n/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/f2cbb/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.jpg 800w,\n/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/1789c/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.jpg 960w,\n/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/c26c2/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/1dd6e/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/67b76/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.webp 320w,\n/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/8df11/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.webp 500w,\n/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/98a65/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.webp 800w,\n/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/1dd6e/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.webp 960w,\n/static/627c10058ef826cb0cbb8158842ab031/3cc96/Las_Vegas._Rancho_Sahara_in_Sahara_Avenue_visto_dal_giardino.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Nevada | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With these 10 drought-resistant landscaping ideas for Nevada, you can have a beautiful garden while helping the state conserve water."}}},{"node":{"id":"e0328510-44ac-530d-bfa1-b4c6fabe6e4c","slug":"11-best-native-plants-tennessee","path":"/lawn-care/tn/11-best-native-plants-tennessee/","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":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"5b679b70-01bd-54c3-aa31-693dd631b9f5","name":"Tennessee","count":11,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tn/"}],"date":"May 15th, 2023","excerpt":"Tennessee is home to unconquered natural beauty, from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Mississippi River. Against this stunning backdrop, it would be a shame to have a bare, dull yard when you could incorporate some of that natural beauty into your own outdoor space with these 11 great native plants of Tennessee. In this […]
\n","content":"\nTennessee is home to unconquered natural beauty, from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Mississippi River. Against this stunning backdrop, it would be a shame to have a bare, dull yard when you could incorporate some of that natural beauty into your own outdoor space with these 11 great native plants of Tennessee.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nNative plants grow naturally in Tennessee, so they have a number of advantages over non-natives, such as:
\n\n\n\nTennessee is a diverse state consisting of different regions that vary in climate, hardiness zone, and elevation. Your area may impact your choice of plants. The different regions include:
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Spicebush-Lindera-benzoin-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nSpicebush peaks in the fall when it produces yellow leaves and bright red berries that attract a variety of birds. If you find yourself missing flowers late in the year, don’t worry. In late winter, spicebush flowers with small yellow blooms.
\n\n\n\nAlthough spicebush naturally lives in wet and shady areas, it’s often planted in full sun, where it grows denser. If you’re getting multiple spicebush plants, you’ll need both male and female plants to produce berries.
\n\n\n\nThere aren’t any known toxic effects of the spicebush, but it’s always better to practice caution anyway.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Moderately moist
Soil: Prefers fertile, loamy soil but tolerates sandy loam as well
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 6 to 12 feet
Potential hazards: None known, but practice caution in any case
![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wild-Azalea-Rhodefondron-Canescens.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nWild azalea grows visually appealing white and pink flowers that bloom from March to April and complement a variety of landscapes. If you decide to plant it, don’t fertilize it and don’t let its leaves get wet. Provide it with well-drained soil to avoid potential problems, and be sure to lay mulch to maintain the plant’s moisture.
\n\n\n\nNote that the wild azalea may scorch in full sun and that it’s susceptible to diseases and insect pests, so be sure to take care of it if you want to keep it looking pretty. However, the plant doesn’t only look great; it also benefits local ecosystems by serving as food for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nYet, take note: the plant is severely toxic, and its ingestion can be fatal. You should never eat it or feed it to animals.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Moderate moisture
Soil: Prefers soil with a high organic matter content but tolerates sandy and loam soils; the soil must be acidic
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 6 to 8 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Large-Tickseed-Coreopsis-Major.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nLarge tickseed has bright yellow, showy flowers that will bring vibrancy to your yard year after year. The plant is native to Middle and East Tennessee, so if you’re from either of these regions, it may be a great addition to your garden.
\n\n\n\nLarge tickseed spreads easily, isn’t invasive, and attracts pollinators. It also feeds birds, who like to snack on its seeds, which look like ticks (hence the plant’s name).
\n\n\n\nThe Coreopsis species are listed as non-toxic on the ASPCA website, but there are some reports of toxicity in some Coreopsis varieties. Also note that the plant is susceptible to diseases to some extent.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Dry or moderately dry
Soil: Will tolerate most soils, but sandy or rocky preferred
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 2 to 3 feet
Potential hazards: No data reporting toxicity for this variety, but practice caution in any case
![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cardinal-Flower-Lobelia-cardinalis-1.jpeg\")
Photo by: ALAN SCHMIERER / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nCardinal flower’s vibrant, red flowers will make your garden a real showstopper when they bloom in the summer. Because the plant thrives in wet conditions, you’ll want to mulch to retain moisture in the soil. It’s an ideal plant for rain gardens, too. The cardinal flower also provides food for pollinators like butterflies.
\n\n\n\nHowever, take note: this plant is severely toxic, and ingesting it can be fatal. You should never ingest it or feed it to animals.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Wildflower
Sun: Partial shade
Water needs: Needs to stay moist at all times
Soil: Prefers moderately wet to wet soil that is rich and mildly acidic; likes to live next to streams or in moist meadows or woodland habitats
Duration: Perennial; divide every three years to perpetuate this flower
Mature height: 2 to 4 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wild-Blue-Phlox-Phlox-Divarcicata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWild blue phlox, also known as woodland phlox and wild sweet William, produces delicate flowers that range between white, pink, and blue in color. It forms strong colonies over time that are sure to complement any Tennessee yard.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, wild blue phlox provides a natural habitat for various species and enhances local biodiversity. You may need to protect your phlox plants from rabbits by elevating them or installing a net.
\n\n\n\nPhlox plants usually aren’t toxic, but it’s best to always practice caution anyway. Also, don’t confuse the wild sweet William with sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) or another toxic species that may look similar or have a similar name.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
Sun: Partial shade, full shade
Water needs: Tolerates medium-dry to medium-wet soils
Soil: Widely adapted, but prefers soil with lots of organic matter
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: Up to 1.5 feet
Potential hazards: None known, but practice caution in any case
![\"American](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Beautyberry-Callicarpa-Americana-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry is a shrub mainly found in Eastern Tennessee, although it sometimes appears in Western Tennessee, too. It especially lives up to its name in the fall, when it produces clusters of bright, purple berries. It doesn’t typically have any major pest problems, and it tolerates drought to some extent, too. To control your American beautyberry’s size and keep it looking beautiful, you can prune it in the spring before new flowers begin to grow.
\n\n\n\nBeautyberries serve as a great source of food for various wildlife. Some sources report it as non-poisonous to humans as well. Others, however, claim that it may have mild toxic effects. You can speak to a professional about any dietary changes. There’s a lack of data regarding the plant’s toxicity to domestic animals, so avoid letting them eat it.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Low
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter; tolerant of various soil types as long as it gets good drainage
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 8 feet
Potential hazards: Mild toxic effects reported; a lack of data regarding toxicity to pets
![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Flowering-Dogwood-Cornus-florida-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Hippopx
\n\n\n\nFlowering dogwood is a small tree that produces delicate flowers in the spring and red berries in the fall. If you want to provide food or habitat for local animals, this plant is a great choice. The tree is enjoyed by various wildlife, like pollinators and birds, and bees and butterflies even use the flowering dogwood to lay eggs.
Despite the appearance and name of the flowering dogwood berries, be warned: they’re very poisonous, so neither humans nor pets should ever eat them, or any part of the tree. Instead, allow wildlife that won’t harm itself to snack on it.
Plant type: Small tree
Sun: Full sun, partial shade; prefers partial shade
Water needs: Can handle occasional dryness; prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soil
Soil: Prefers high organic matter content; will tolerate sand, loam, and clay mixes
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 12 to 30 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tulip-Poplar-Liriodendron-Tulipifera.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dcrjsr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe tulip poplar is the state tree of Tennessee. It adds beauty to any landscape with its tulip-shaped flowers. If you like a little color variety in your yard, you’ll appreciate that these unique blossoms are green and orange in the summer and turn bright yellow in the fall. Birds and pollinators like to snack on the tulip poplar, too.
Don’t let the tulip poplar’s size intimidate you; although it can reach a height of 120 feet, there are smaller cultivars, like Little Volunteer, that are easier to maintain in backyards.
\n\n\n\nWhile ASPCA lists this tree as non-toxic to some domestic animals, take note that some sources report that this tree is toxic to both people and pets. It’s always better to be cautious.
Plant type: Large tree
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Moist or occasionally dry in well-drained soil
Soil: Slightly acidic loam
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 70 to 120-plus feet
Potential hazards: Some reports of toxicity
![\"Bunch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan adds a yellow pop of color that is not only attractive to humans but also to pollinators such as butterflies. Although it takes around a year to see the first blossoms, once they appear, they’ll accompany your yard for months.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is mainly present in Middle and Eastern Tennessee but can also be found in Western Tennessee. It’s easy to care for and tolerates various conditions, including heat, drought, and cold.
\n\n\n\nHowever, black-eyed Susan is also toxic to animals, so be sure to keep them away. Although the data regarding its toxicity is limited, we know it can also cause allergic reactions and asthma in humans. Don’t consume or touch it, and use protective gloves while handling it.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Wildflower
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water needs: Moderate
Soil: Average, well-draining, acidic
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 2 to 3 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Brown](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Little-Bluestem-Schizachyrium-Scoparium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you want your yard to pop even more, you might want to add some ornamental grass, like little bluestem. This grass is bluish in the summer and orange-red in the fall, adding the extra touch of vibrancy you may be looking for.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, little bluestem is a great food source for birds and is also beneficial to butterflies that lay eggs in it. The grass thrives in hot, humid conditions and grows well on hillsides. Once established, it tolerates drought and needs little maintenance. To keep it looking beautiful, cut it back in late winter or early spring.
\n\n\n\nLittle bluestem doesn’t have known toxic effects, but it’s always better to err on the side of caution anyway.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Ornamental grass
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Occasionally; dry to moist
Soil: Any type (clay, loam, sand, rocky) but must be well-drained
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 2 to 4 feet
Potential hazards: None known, but practice caution in any case
![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jitaeri / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nYou’ve probably seen the fragrant common yarrow during a stroll in the park, but why not make this easy-care plant a part of your yard? You can get a pink, white, or yellow variant, depending on which one’s the best fit for your outdoor space. No matter which color variant you pick, your common yarrow will attract pollinators and birds, providing them with nectar and seeds to snack on. Starlings even like to use common yarrow to build their nests.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to encourage more blooms on your common yarrow, be sure to cut off its dead flowers. Even though the plant is tolerant of various conditions, you may need to treat its common problems, such as mildew and root rot. It can also become weedy in poorly managed areas.
\n\n\n\nTake note, that common yarrow is toxic and should never be ingested by you or your pets. Touching the plant may cause irritation.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
Sun: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
Water needs: Once established, usually survives on natural rainfall; water no more than once a month in summer
Soil: Tolerates most soil types
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 3 feet tall
Potential hazards: Toxic
As you can see, there’s a broad selection of native plants that can thrive in your Tennessee landscape. When- picking the ones that are right for your yard, consider factors such as:
\n\n\n\nOf course, if you want a beautiful yard, there’s more to it than planting flowers, shrubs, or trees. You also need to maintain your yard regularly by mowing the lawn, trimming the hedges, removing weeds, and watering.
\n\n\n\nNeed a hand? Don’t hesitate to contact one of WikiLawn’s lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for Your Tennessee Yard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/1789c/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.jpg","srcSet":"/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/107df/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.jpg 320w,\n/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/293e9/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.jpg 500w,\n/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/f2cbb/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.jpg 800w,\n/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/1789c/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.jpg 960w,\n/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/c26c2/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/1dd6e/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/67b76/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.webp 320w,\n/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/8df11/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.webp 500w,\n/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/98a65/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.webp 800w,\n/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/1dd6e/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.webp 960w,\n/static/583329a1dc15f1dc90da0a75ac9a9db7/3cc96/Best-Native-Plants-for-Your-Tennessee-Yard.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for Your Tennessee Yard | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"It would be a shame to have a bare yard in the midst of the natural wonders of Tennessee, so here’s a guide to11 popular native plants of the region."}}},{"node":{"id":"bc82f02b-2576-5a74-9397-5692edc58c76","slug":"best-grass-types-des-moines","path":"/lawn-care/io/des-moines/best-grass-types-des-moines/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Most comfortable with soil under her fingernails, Amanda has an enthusiasm for gardening, agriculture, and all things plant-related. With a master's degree in agriculture and more than a decade of experience gardening and tending to her lawn, she combines her plant knowledge and knack for writing to share what she knows and loves.","name":"Amanda Shiffler","id":"458fa7a4-b709-56ae-8d79-9dc400e34ff1","path":"/author/amanda-shiffler/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0048ef20c97263b5f26951aa210d62c8?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"9e5d4ac9-f72b-5ccc-801c-72c19ec7ae9a","name":"Des Moines","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/io/des-moines/"},{"id":"a3aeae07-f76c-5bc9-a8d8-4eddb5f4c33f","name":"Iowa","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/io/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 15th, 2023","excerpt":"Everyone knows that Iowa is one of the best places for growing corn and soybeans. But the humid continental climate and rich prairie soil is also fantastic for growing plush, terrific lawns. Still, not every type of grass thrives here, and not every grass is ideal for your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for something that […]
\n","content":"\nEveryone knows that Iowa is one of the best places for growing corn and soybeans. But the humid continental climate and rich prairie soil is also fantastic for growing plush, terrific lawns.
\n\n\n\nStill, not every type of grass thrives here, and not every grass is ideal for your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for something that tolerates the high foot traffic of Sunday afternoon flag-football games or one that doesn’t require frequent mowing, there is a grass that suits your needs. Below are the grasses that thrive in Des Moines.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nTurfgrasses are classified as either cool-season or warm-season grasses, and it’s essential to understand the difference and ensure you’re planting the right type for your climate.
\n\n\n\nIn the northern United States, most lawns are cool-season grasses that are adapted to colder temperatures. They start growing when temperatures are just above freezing (40 to 42°F) in early to mid-spring and stay green well into October or November, when they go dormant to survive being buried under snow.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses grow the most, producing the most biomass in the spring and late fall when soil and air temperatures are 65 to 75°F. Since they have adapted to survive below-zero climates, they aren’t as adapted to hot summers. They do well when temperatures are milder in July and August but need more water when it’s hot to stay green.
\n\n\n\nCommon cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nConversely, warm-season grasses are better adapted to southern climates and the summer heat. They tolerate drought better and continue to grow when temperatures soar but don’t grow as well in cooler temperatures. Because of this, they grow for a shorter period and don’t stay green as long.
\n\n\n\nCommon warm-season grasses:
\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 (KBG) tops our list because it’s a prime choice for many homeowners and commercial sod growers in Iowa and the Midwest. This dark green turf creates a dense blanket across your yard and has the best winter hardiness of the cool-season grass types.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass tolerates partial shade, but plant it in full sun to see it in its glory. The seed is slower to germinate and establish than some other grasses, but because it spreads by underground stems known as rhizomes, it holds up well and recovers quickly from foot traffic. Bare spots from kids or pets inclined to dig holes will also fill in quickly.
\n\n\n\nCompared to other turfgrasses, the shorter root system on KGB does compromise its drought tolerance a little, so you will need to water it more than some lawns. That being said, it also requires more maintenance regarding fertilization and mowing to keep it lush and dark green.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: During the growing season, water requirements for Kentucky bluegrass are pretty high. It will go dormant during droughts and survive four to six weeks without water.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man's](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red-Fescue-a-species-of-fine-fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnother first-rate option for a Des Moines-area lawn is one of the five turfgrasses grouped as fine-leaf fescues. Fans love the soft, fine texture of the narrow leaves on chewings fescue, hard fescue, sheep fescue, slender creeping red fescue, and strong creeping red fescue. Fine fescues also have excellent shade tolerance, hold up to moderate foot traffic, and tolerate low soil fertility.
\n\n\n\nStrong creeping red, hard, and chewings fescues are popular in the midwestern United States, usually blended with other grasses. Fine fescues can be sown straight in partially shaded yards because of their tolerance. Still, these low-maintenance grasses are typically sown with Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass to improve the lawn’s aesthetic.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: While fine fescues have good drought tolerance, they quickly lose color in hot, dry conditions.
\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\nIf you’re hurrying to start a lawn, perennial ryegrass is a good option. This cool-season bunchgrass germinates in under a week to get you well on your way to a beautiful, medium to dark-green lawn. Its ability to establish rapidly is one of the reasons it’s so popular for both permanent and temporary lawns.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is excellent if you have small children roaming outdoors, teenagers who like to roughhouse, or pets running circles around the yard. It handles abuse well, but once damaged or a thin spot arises, it can’t self-repair because it grows in clumps and doesn’t send out rhizomes.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass also doesn’t tolerate cold temperatures well and may thin if exposed to temps below 30°F for long periods.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to plant it and forget it, perennial ryegrass is not for you. It is another moderately high-maintenance, cool-season grass type. You’ll need to mow and water it regularly and reseed areas when they thin.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Perennial ryegrass is often blended with Kentucky bluegrass because of its fast germination and foot traffic tolerance.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnother bunchgrass, tall fescue grows upright in clumps and primarily spreads through vertical shoots off the base of the plant. These tillers create identical clones of medium to dark green, broad, coarse grass blades. The lack of underground spreading means it requires reseeding when bare spots appear.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is an ideal low-maintenance grass type and does well in full sun or partial shade. A naturally extensive root system easily grows down 2-3 feet in the soil. This strong root system makes the grass very resilient, so tall fescue is well suited for high-traffic play areas and non-irrigated lawns.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Do not mow improved varieties shorter than 3’ tall. A shorter mowing height encourages weed growth.
\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\nComing in as our honorable mention, buffalograss is a warm-season species that is often used in and around Des Moines. The only warm-season grass on the list, it has been used historically for grazing animals and pastures but also appears in Iowa along low-maintenance landscape areas like roadsides and city streets.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a highly sustainable lawn option. Native to the North American prairies, this finely textured perennial grass is one of the few native types of grass that forms a dense, soft sod suitable for lawn use with minimal mowing.
\n\n\n\nAs a native species, extreme temperatures, high pH soils, and drought are no issues for buffalograss. You will see hampered growth if you’re trying to grow it in the shade.
\n\n\n\nThe big drawback to this warm-season grass is it will begin to lose its green color and go dormant as soon as the first frost hits in the fall.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Buffalograss grows 8 to 10 inches high when left unmowed.
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to deciding between the different recommended types, you have to consider some factors that are specific to your yard. When choosing a grass type for your Des Moines lawn, it is essential to pick something that thrives in your space.
\n\n\n\nLike choosing flowers for your garden, you must pick a turfgrass that corresponds with your yard’s sun exposure.
\n\n\n\nDoes your yard get more than 6-8 hours of sun daily? Is it free of big trees and isn’t shaded by your neighbor’s house? If so, pick a turf that grows in full sun.
\n\n\n\nGrass types for full sun:
\n\n\n\nDoes your yard get less than four hours of sun throughout the day? Is it shaded by a privacy fence, giant trees, or your neighbor’s house? If so, you need grass that grows in full shade.
\n\n\n\nGrass types for shade:
\n\n\n\nOr is your yard a mix of both? If that’s the case, you need a turfgrass that tolerates all sun conditions.
\n\n\n\nGrass types for a combination of both sun and shade:
\n\n\n\nDoes your yard see a constant flurry of activity? Do you have dogs or kids running through the grass regularly? Are you often inviting friends and family over? If so, choose a grass that tolerates and recovers well from foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nBest grasses for high-traffic lawns:
\n\n\n\nIs your yard pretty secluded and doesn’t get played in often? If so, choose something with lower foot traffic tolerance.
\n\n\n\nBest grasses for low to moderate traffic:
\n\n\n\nAre you a homeowner who loves to work outside when the weather is nice? Do you like fertilizing, mowing, and weeding? Then you may enjoy a high-maintenance grass type.
\n\n\n\nHigh to medium-maintenance:
\n\n\n\nBut if you don’t like these lawn care chores, opt for something low-maintenance instead so you can spend your free time doing more exciting things.
\n\n\n\nGrasses with a low or moderate maintenance level:
\n\n\n\nAcross much of the Midwest, many people like to grow lawns with a blend of different turfgrass species. This genetic diversity improves the overall disease resistance of the yard, and the turf is often better adapted to growing in varied conditions such as part-shade.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, there aren’t many warm-season grass seed blends available for purchase. You can buy grass seeds containing a mix of Bermudagrass cultivars but not different types. This lack of grass seed blends is because there is such a varied difference in the color, shade tolerance, and watering needs of warm-season turfgrasses.
\n\n\n\nWhen choosing a grass seed blend, ensure the mix’s dominant species best fits your yard conditions.
\n\n\n\nThe goal with seeding — whether overseeding an existing lawn or starting one from scratch — is to get seed down just before your grass type goes into its active growth period.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: Cool-season grasses are best seeded between August 15 and October 1. They’ll have about six weeks to grow before the first fall frost.
\n\n\n\nThat doesn’t mean you can’t plant in the spring. Just understand spring isn’t the best time for cool-season grasses. This timing usually brings warm soils, cooler temperatures, and frequent rainfall—all of which encourage quick germination, so the grass has an excellent jump-start.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also essential to understand that cool-season species can handle colder temperatures better than heat. Seeds do better when planted in the fall, just as the grass goes dormant for the winter, versus in the spring with the stress of summer heat bearing down.
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, as a warm-season grass, bermudagrass should be seeded about June 1st. Warm-season grass species grow the most when it’s hot to establish well before fall/winter dormancy.
\n\n\n\nWhen you plant depends on your regional climate and the type of grass you’re growing. In northern regions, it’s best to plant cool-season grasses in the fall. Wait for hot summer temperatures to subside, but give the grass time to establish before the first fall frost. In the south, the best time to plant warm-season grasses is in late spring or early summer, just as the temperatures begin warming up.
Warm-season grasses need hot summer temperatures and mild winters without snow; they grow mainly in the southern United States. Cool-season grasses need more temperate summer conditions but can survive harsh winters; they grow primarily in the northern United States.
Planting grass seed at least six weeks before your first anticipated hard freeze in the fall is best. Your grass then has time to establish a root system before it goes dormant. You can plant later, but cool-season grasses won’t grow if temperatures are below 40 or 42°F, so the growth may be lackluster.
Picking the right grass type for Des Moines and the surrounding area can be daunting, especially if you’re a new homeowner or have never had to handle lawn care. Thankfully, you don’t have to tackle any of it alone!
\n\n\n\nThe experts at WikiLawn want you to have the best, most beautiful lawn imaginable.
\n\n\n\nWe’ll help you choose the grass for your yard and can set you up with service professionals to mow, fertilize, or handle weed control. So take the first step towards the lawn your neighbors will envy!
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Iowa State Capitol / Pixabay
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