![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-Flag-Iris.jpg\")
Illinois has a diverse climate full of fluctuating temperatures, cold winters, and hot summers. The climate supports a variety of plants, including vibrant perennials and hardy evergreens. Illinoisians encounter native plants decorating farmlands, parks, yards, and more. Discover 15 native plants for Illinois landscapes and add some local, Land-of-Lincoln color to your yard. In this […]
\n","content":"\nIllinois has a diverse climate full of fluctuating temperatures, cold winters, and hot summers. The climate supports a variety of plants, including vibrant perennials and hardy evergreens. Illinoisians encounter native plants decorating farmlands, parks, yards, and more. Discover 15 native plants for Illinois landscapes and add some local, Land-of-Lincoln color to your yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer many landscaping benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: James Steakley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlue flag iris thrives in wet environments throughout Illinois, making it a great addition to ponds, streams, or rain gardens. Its tall stems bloom large violet-blue flowers, and its dense clumps of bright green leaves rest on water or ground. They provide nectar for hummingbirds and groundcover for amphibians, snakes, and insects.
\n\n\n\nBlue flag iris prefers wet, acidic soil and tolerates flooding up to three inches. Specimens grow up to three feet tall and bloom from May to June. The perennial is resistant to most pests and diseases, including deer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, poorly-drained clay or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Flood-tolerant; water frequently to keep soil moist
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous roots
\n\n\n\nBlue vervain is a popular choice for Illinois gardens. The perennial has spikes of small purple flowers that attract pollinators. Its dried winter seeds and shoots are a source of food for native wildlife. This tall, clump-forming wildflower has candelabra-shaped stems that grow up to five feet tall once established.
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-Vervain-Verbena-hastata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlue vervain prefers full sun but adapts to shady conditions. It blooms from July to September. Specimens are drought-tolerant and make a low-maintenance addition to borders, rain gardens, ponds, and containers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-5 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade; shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained chalk, loam, or sand.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Blue-Violet.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Steakley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommon blue violet is recognized as Illinois’ state flower. Also known as the purple violet or wooly blue violet, this perennial thrives in areas with filtered sunlight like forest floors. Specimens are easily recognizable courtesy of their broad, heart-shaped leaves and purple blooms with white central petals.
\n\n\n\nCommon blue violet is deer-resistant and an excellent pollinator. It is edible, and the leaves and flowers are rich in vitamins.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-10 inches tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; moist, well-drained chalk, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water one in per week; allow to dry out between watering
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMilkweed is so widespread across Illinois that it was adopted as the state wildflower in 2017. It is an herbaceous perennial with domed clusters of pale pink and white flowers. It thrives in full sun and is drought-tolerant. Common milkweed blooms in the summer and is an essential host plant for the endangered Monarch butterfly, the state butterfly of Illinois.
\n\n\n\nCommon milkweed is low-maintenance, deer-resistant, and generally disease and pest-free. It is a great choice for butterfly or container gardens and flower beds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-4 feet tall and 12 inches wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; well-drained chalk, sand, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week during dry periods
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; mildly poisonous to humans and animals; irritating sap
\n\n\n\n![\"Cup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cup-Plant.jpg\" "\\"alexanders\\"")
Photo Credit: Aaron Volkening / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCup plant survives the extreme Midwestern winters thanks to dormant, cold-weather roots. The herbaceous flowering plant grows up to eight feet tall with toothed leaves and daisy-like blooms.
\n\n\n\nThanks to the shape of its flowers, water accumulates inside like a cup. Cup plant is an excellent backyard specimen that is deer-resistant and has no serious disease or pest issues.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-8 feet and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Golden](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Golden-Alexanders.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGolden Alexanders is a low-maintenance, low-growing plant that is highly adaptable. It thrives in lawns with moist soils and partial to full sun but tolerates a range of soils and conditions, including drought. Golden Alexanders blooms large clusters of tiny yellow flowers during mid to late spring. These flowers are a great source of nectar for beneficial insects.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; moist, well-drained clay, loam, or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Adaptable; water one inch per week during the growing season
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"Indian](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Paintbrush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Superior National Forest / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIndian paintbrush blooms red to orange flowers that resemble spikes that have been dipped in paint. The herbaceous perennial is a hemiparasite, meaning it parasitically relies on other plants for some of its nutrients. Indian paintbrush blooms from late spring to early summer and grows in sandy areas. It attracts many pollinators and controls competition in the garden, creating a balanced ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week; allow the soil to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Small](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Nodding-Wild-Onion.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLady’s leek, or nodding wild onion, belongs to the genus Allium, similar to onions and garlic. It has long, leafless stalks with clusters of capsule-like fruits and a distinct pink or purple bloom. It grows in open areas of North America.
\n\n\n\nLady’s leek has a strong scent. Specimens can be cooked or used raw to season food. It is an ideal plant for your home gardens and is long-lived and hardy.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Bulb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable, moist, well-drained chalk, clay, loam, or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible; little culinary value today
\n\n\n\n![\"New](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Cosmonaut / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5 CA
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNew England aster forms multi-stemmed clusters of lavender, pink, or purple flowers with a yellow center. This drought-tolerant and deer-resistant native thrives in all but the driest soils. New England aster prefers partial to full sun, and mature plants grow up to six feet tall. Specimens provide waterfowl coverage and attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 – 6 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained clay, loam, sand, or chalk
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water once to twice weekly to maintain moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oakleaf-Hydrangea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: normanack / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNamed for its broad, dark green leaves that resemble oak leaves, oakleaf hydrangea is a great shrub for small spaces or borders as an informal hedge. It grows between four to six feet tall and blooms clusters of tiny, white flowers.
\n\n\n\nOakleaf hydrangea blooms in early spring until midsummer. Cultivars have no serious insect or disease problems and thrive in moist soils. Be sure to prune the flowering shrub as soon as it is done flowering to promote new growth.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-10 feet high and 6-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full shade to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers, fertile, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderately drought-tolerant; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; all plant parts are poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Ohio](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Ohio-Spiderwort.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOhio spiderwort is a quick-spreading, low-maintenance garden plant that also makes a great houseplant. Specimens often resemble long grass or lilies. The flowers are blue or purple with pale central petals. Ohio spiderwort is drought-tolerant and prefers dry soil. The perennial blooms from May to mid-October and grows two to three feet tall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained clay, loam, or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water every 2-3 days during dry spells; prefers moist soil
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PumpkinSky / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurple coneflower is a perennial herb with purple petals surrounding a burnt orange head atop tall stems. Specimens grow throughout Illinois meadows and open woods. Purple coneflower is low-maintenance and suitable for beginning gardeners. The plant attracts several pollinators and birds, making it a great addition to a wildlife or butterfly garden.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-5 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, well-drained sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-Prairie-Clover-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum from Henfield, England / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurple prairie clover grows across Northern and Central Illinois and is recognized by its conical, thimble-shaped purple flowers. It blooms in summer and attracts butterflies, wasps, bees, and birds. It is a food source for various herbivores, such as the pronghorn, and is hay for livestock.
\n\n\n\nPurple prairie clover thrives in sunny locations with average to dry soils. It has large taproots, which can extend down to six feet below the soil. Specimens are crucial for revegetation, and its long taproot system prevents soil erosion.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained clay, loam, sand, or chalk
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water one inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible leaves
\n\n\n\n![\"Sweet](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Sweet-Gum-Liquidambar-styraciflua.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSweet gum is a native shade tree with a narrow trunk and star-shaped leaves that change to shades of orange, yellow, red, and purple in the Fall. It thrives in full sun. After its flowering season, sweet gum produces spiky balls that drop to the ground. Be sure to plant specimens away from foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 30-50 feet tall and 25-40 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained clay, loam, or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: No watering needs outside of natural rainfall
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Wild](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Bergamot-or-Bee-Balm-Monarda-Fistulosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWild bergamot, also known as bee balm, grows throughout Illinois, except in the southernmost regions. Its nectar attracts native pollinators and hummingbirds. The herbaceous flower grows up to five feet tall with three-inch, toothed leaves. Establish specimens from seed or cuttings.
\n\n\n\nWild bergamot prefers full sun to partial shade and can withstand drought thanks to its deep roots. Its roots make it a great choice for stabilizing slopes and erosion control. The perennial blooms pink or lavender flowers in summer that last until October. Wild bergamot is a member of the mint family and has a scent similar to oregano and mint.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun; partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; intolerant of flooding
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water once per week in the spring and fall and twice per week in the summer
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible with medicinal uses
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting plants for your yard, keep your hardiness zone in mind. Illinois is located in USDA Hardiness Zones 4b to 6b, which means that Illinois experiences four distinct seasons. All Illinois native plants are hardy to the lowest annual temperatures, approximately -20 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nNative plants can look wild and untamed. They often attract unwelcome wildlife like field mice.
There are almost 2,300 native plant species in Illinois.
Only four prairie buttercup specimens have been spotted since 2007. The native wildflower grows in dry gravel and dolomite prairies in north-central Illinois.
Various organizations in Illinois preserve the original flora and educate people about the significance of native plants. Here are a few things you can do if you want to locate native plants for your landscape:
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t have enough time, energy, or experience to care for your garden, let Wikilawn connect you with an Illinois lawn care pro. From Alton, Carol Stream, to Oak Park, Downers Grove, and more, the experts can mow, edge, weed, and help you pick the best native plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Grant Park, Chicago / Alanscottwalker / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"15 Native Plants for Illinois Landscapes","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3377926421404682,"src":"/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/1789c/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/107df/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/293e9/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/f2cbb/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 800w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/1789c/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 960w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/c26c2/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/1dd6e/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/67b76/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 320w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/8df11/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 500w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/98a65/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 800w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/1dd6e/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 960w,\n/static/5c102d110fee7266156e43a632cfde3c/3cc96/Grant-Park-Chicago-Garden.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"15 Native Plants for Illinois Landscapes","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the top 15 native plants for Illinois landscapes, including vibrant blooms, resilient perennials, and ecological benefits."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"d02f197a-1d69-562c-a3c8-63f90e8cee6d","slug":"best-grass-seeds-kansas","path":"/lawn-care/kansas/best-grass-seeds-kansas/","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":"daa9a0d5-f2d7-5874-a2a1-2ce417a82733","name":"Kansas","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/kansas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 22nd, 2023","excerpt":"A fruitful walk on one of the Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve’s hiking trails is invigorating. So is returning home to a beautiful lawn reminiscent of the recreational and enlightening journey. This article highlights four of the best grass seeds for Kansas, so you can bring as much of the nostalgia home with you as possible. […]
\n","content":"\nA fruitful walk on one of the Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve’s hiking trails is invigorating. So is returning home to a beautiful lawn reminiscent of the recreational and enlightening journey. This article highlights four of the best grass seeds for Kansas, so you can bring as much of the nostalgia home with you as possible.
\n\n\n\nWhether it’s the humid, rainy, and warm eastern region of Kansas, the drier, cooler western side of the state, or the central region that has a climate in between, you’ll find grass that is a good match for your home and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nOptions for grass types include warm-season grasses and cool-season grasses. Kansas is in the transition zone, where both types of grasses thrive.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow best in the summer. This grass type prefers humid and hot climates and thrives in regions with short, hot summers and mild winters. Warm-season grasses go dormant in the winter and turn brown in cold temperatures. These grasses are commonly found in the southern part of the United States.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses grow best in the spring and fall. Like warm-season grass, cool-season grass goes dormant in freezing temperatures, too. However, the grass goes dormant later in the winter than warm season-grasses. Cool-season grasses, unlike warm-season grasses, also go brown and dormant in the summer.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grass prefers air temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This grass type is typically found in the northern regions of the country where the climate is cool to mild.
\n\n\n\nSince Kansas is in the transition zone (which means it experiences both hot summers and freezing winters), both warm-season and cool-season grasses can grow in the state. Let’s take a look at the traits, advantages, and disadvantages of each.
\n\n\n\nCool-Season grasses:
\n\n\n\nWarm-Season grasses:
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue has the most heat and drought tolerance of the cool-season grasses, making it ideal for the transition zone. It adapts to a variety of soil types and soil pH levels. Its versatile nature makes it an excellent choice for the Kansas climate, since tall fescue is both heat and cold-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is well-adapted to shady conditions, so if your property has trees blocking the sunlight, tall fescue grass seeds will still produce a beautiful lawn.
\n\n\n\nThis grass is low maintenance compared to other grasses. For example, it requires regular mowing, but unlike Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue does not have high fertilization requirements. Thatch and diseases are also not significant problems for tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue has a glossy, dark green color and coarse texture. It has moderate foot traffic. This grass can tolerate occasional physical activity, but it does not recover from damage like Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nDuring long dry spells, tall fescue requires frequent mowing and irrigation to keep it healthy.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when the grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Choose turf-type tall fescue grass seed and avoid forage-type varieties, as they do not produce quality lawns. Rebel tall fescue turfgrass is an ideal option for establishing a lawn because the variety spreads quickly, meaning fewer grass seeds are required for a full canvas.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is not as drought-tolerant as tall fescue. Bluegrass also does not perform well in high heat and requires a lot of irrigation in dry, hot weather. It is not recommended for the transition zone as a monostand. While bluegrass may not be the best choice to use alone, it is a good option as a grass seed mix with tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nCombining the two types of grass seeds makes both types of grass stronger for an overall, healthier lawn that can withstand diseases better. For example, diseases that affect tall fescue may not affect Kentucky bluegrass, and vice versa. Mix at a 9 to 1 ratio of tall fescue to Kentucky bluegrass for optimal results.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it is not recommended for the transition zone, Kentucky bluegrass is used in the northeastern part of Kansas where there is ample rainfall. Bluegrass is also used in the northwestern parts where the summer nights have cooler temperatures. Supplemental irrigation is required in the northwestern region.
\n\n\n\nBluegrass has some qualities that are complementary to tall fescue. For example, bluegrass has moderate foot-traffic tolerance and quickly recovers from damage. Bluegrass also helps prevent erosion.
\n\n\n\nCombining bluegrass, with its soft texture and quick recovery from damage, with tall fescue can give you a lawn that is ideal for children running, playing, and falling on the grass regularly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Use the less aggressive cultivars when mixing with tall fescue. Some cultivars that do well under low-maintenance and minimal watering are Caliber and Northstar.
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach at the English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is commonly used for golf courses and by many American homeowners in home lawns. It has high traffic and wear tolerance. Zoysia also adapts well to different soil types.
\n\n\n\nThis grass type grows slowly. So although it has moderate to high maintenance needs, you will not have to run the lawn mower as often to keep the grass low-cut and well-groomed. Another advantage is that its dense turf tends to suppress weeds.
\n\n\n\nMeyer Zoysia is known for being a quality turf with more winter hardiness than other warm-season grasses typically found in the Midwest. This variety also has good drought and heat tolerance.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass will grow well on properties with moderate shade. If your home has a lot of trees or does not get a lot of sun, this grass type is a better choice than some other warm-season grasses, like buffalo grass. However, too much shade causes zoysia to thin.
\n\n\n\nAlthough zoysia is drought tolerant, it needs supplemental irrigation during long dry spells. Be mindful that thatch can be a problem if this grass type is watered or fertilized too much.
\n\n\n\nZoysia comes with some ambivalence. Its high traffic quality makes it a good choice for homes with a lot of physical activity on the lawn, but it recovers slowly from damage. If you want grass that can withstand frequent lawn parties and recover quickly from the traffic, a mixture of tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass seeds is a better choice.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to High. It needs to be watered, mowed, and fertilized properly to reduce the need for pesticides. Over-fertilizing it with nitrogen may produce a thick layer of thatch.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1 and 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Thrives in well-draining soil, some cultivars are more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: It is susceptible to dollar spot and large patch disease. Zoysia grass is vulnerable to white grubs and mole crickets, which attract critters that also cause damage.
\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\nBuffalograss thrives best in the western area of Kansas where there is less rainfall. This drought-tolerant grass is ideal for homeowners who want a low-maintenance lawn. It requires very little fertilizer or water.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss prefers full sun and will not grow at its best on shady properties. Unlike zoysiagrass, buffalograss requires weed management. Mowing regularly, however, can decrease certain types of weeds, like broadleaf weeds. Buffalo is disease and insect tolerant, so it does not need the maintenance that some grasses, like zoysia, require to keep it pest free.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss has a unique blue-green color and soft texture. It’s a good option for homes with children who like to walk barefoot across the grass. On the other hand, its low traffic tolerance makes it a less inviting choice for frequent sports activities or gatherings on the lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs. Develops thatch and requires weed control.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 2 and 3 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good insect and disease resistance
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native clay soils, not sandy soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It has no rhizomes or underground stems and is easily destroyed by cultivation. But these qualities make buffalograss easier to remove from your garden and flower bed.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bermudagrass\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Robert McPherson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is commonly used throughout the United States. This grass has mixed reviews about its suitability for Kansas.
\n\n\n\nThe University of Missouri reports that bermudagrass is not recommended for lawns in the transition zone. Varieties are predominantly developed in the south and not adapted for Kansas. This grass type has poor cold tolerance. Most seeded varieties lack the resilience to survive the cold Kansas winters.
\n\n\n\nNevertheless, bermudagrass is used widely in Kansas. According to Kansas State University, bermudagrass is adapted to the northern edge of the state and can grow well in that area. KSU suggests using cold-tolerant varieties and that they must be planted by vegetative means.
\n\n\n\nThe same source reports that seeded cultivars will thrive in southern Kansas. Cheyenne, Sun Devil, and Guymon are some of the recommended cultivars.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is medium-green in color and has a texture that is medium-fine. It is heat and drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nThis grass type tolerates a wide variety of soil types and has a low-growth habit. A property that receives a lot of sun will provide good growing conditions for bermuda. It can tolerate a few hours of daily shade, but too much time in the shade reduces the grass’s quality and density. Bermuda grows aggressively and can invade gardens and flower beds.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass has high-traffic tolerance and recovers quickly. It is a wonderful selection for homeowners that host frequent play dates on the grass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nTraffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Improved hybrid cultivars require moderate maintenance
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Hybrid bermudagrass cultivars should be mowed to 0.5 and 1.5 inches. Common bermudagrass should be mowed to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: High
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Its aggressive growth causes it to invade flower beds and generate thatch accumulation. Mowing too frequently to keep the grass at a height of .5 inches exposes the grass to increased pests and weeds. Mowing 1 to 2 times weekly will maintain a healthy root system and appearance.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are great seed mixes for overseeding. Bluegrass germinates quickly to fill in bare spots. The best time to overseed using these two seed mixes is in early to mid-September. During this time the nights are cooler, the soil is still warm, and there is ample rainfall.
No grass is best for every condition or purpose. Kansas experiences extreme temperatures in the summer, cold winters, and multiple soil types and precipitation rates. The summer heat along with the humidity breeds multiple diseases to which perennial ryegrass is susceptible. Perennial is best used for athletic fields and golf courses and not home lawns in the state of Kansas.
The most shade-tolerant warm-season grass is St. Augustine. Zoysiagrass is the second most shade-tolerant. The most shade-tolerant cool-season grass is fine fescue. Of the cool-season grasses best suited for Kansas, tall fescue is more shade tolerant than Kentucky bluegrass.
When choosing a grass, consider what area of Kansas you live in, as some grasses have traits that thrive better in some regions than others. Another factor to consider is when you feel it is best for your lawn to thrive and enter dormancy.
\n\n\n\nThe two cool-season grasses will go dormant later in the winter and experience summer dormancy. The two warm-season grasses will go dormant earlier in the winter but remain active and growing in the summer.
\n\n\n\nWhether you’re starting a new lawn or working with an existing one, you’ll want to plant grass seed that fits your lifestyle, your yard’s characteristics, and the time you want to dedicate to maintenance.
\n\n\n\nConsider what your lawn will be used for. If you have a lot of physical activity on your grass, choose quality turf that tolerates heavy foot traffic and, if possible, recovers quickly. How much shade or sun does your property receive? This will affect what type of grass thrives well in your home’s conditions. Select a grass that allows you to work as little or as much as you want in maintaining your lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe sooner you turn your yard work over to someone else, the sooner you can enjoy the water activities at Cheney State Park. Call a lawn care pro near you to do the mowing, fertilizing, and trimming for you. We have trusted pros in Wichita and many other cities across Kansas.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: City Park, Manhattan, Kansas / Wesley Fryer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Seeds for Kansas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/1789c/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/107df/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.jpg 320w,\n/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/293e9/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.jpg 500w,\n/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/f2cbb/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.jpg 800w,\n/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/1789c/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.jpg 960w,\n/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/c26c2/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/1dd6e/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/67b76/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.webp 320w,\n/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/8df11/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.webp 500w,\n/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/98a65/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.webp 800w,\n/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/1dd6e/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.webp 960w,\n/static/f5ccd7fffc41e84c208080696f500b6f/3cc96/City-Park-Manhattan-Kansas.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Seeds for Kansas","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best grass seeds for Kansas includes warm-season and cool-season grasses. Read for more details to determine the best fit for your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"0eef1b6a-ab75-5022-a234-bc377481d67c","slug":"best-grass-types-south-carolina","path":"/lawn-care/sc/best-grass-types-south-carolina/","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":"1ea697f8-5b42-5431-b368-7296faebead2","name":"South Carolina","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the Palmetto State is blessed with a moderate climate, abundant rainfall, and picturesque scenery. These factors make it an ideal location for growing a beautiful lawn. But with numerous options available, choosing the right grass type for your yard can take time and effort. Take […]
\n","content":"\nNestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the Palmetto State is blessed with a moderate climate, abundant rainfall, and picturesque scenery. These factors make it an ideal location for growing a beautiful lawn. But with numerous options available, choosing the right grass type for your yard can take time and effort.
\n\n\n\nTake a closer look at the 6 best grass types for South Carolina, from the drought-tolerant bermudagrass to the shade-loving Zoysiagrass. You’ll learn about crucial factors like water requirements, disease resistance, and ease of maintenance. With this information, you’ll be well on your way to a lush, green yard that’s the envy of the neighborhood.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season and cool-season grasses have distinct differences that are crucial to understanding their growing patterns. While warm-season grasses grow rapidly and are drought-resistant, cool-season grasses have a resilient and thick growth pattern.
\n\n\n\nHowever, these differences barely scratch the surface of their contrasting characteristics. The following additional details can help you distinguish between warm-season and cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nWhether you’re looking for a warm-season or cool-season grass, here are the top picks that are perfectly suited to South Carolina’s humid subtropical climate and soil conditions:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bidgee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nA warm-season turfgrass that’s well-adapted to the hot and humid climate of South Carolina, bermudagrass boasts fast growth, which means it can quickly establish a thick and healthy turf. This grass variety is known for being drought-tolerant and able to withstand heavy foot traffic, which is why it’s a popular choice for lawns, sports fields, and golf courses in the area.
\n\n\n\nSeveral types of bermudagrass are available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. For example, common bermudagrass is coarser and requires less maintenance. On the other hand, hybrid cultivars have a fine texture and refined appearance but require greater care to maintain.
\n\n\n\nProper care and attention are crucial to maintaining a healthy and beautiful bermudagrass lawn. Regular mowing and watering are necessary, and the grass also requires fertilization and aeration to keep it in top shape. In addition, the soil type and pH can affect the grass’s health and appearance, so homeowners should consider these factors when selecting a bermudagrass variety.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low – some cultivars need more exposure to direct sunlight than others
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High – may become dormant in extended periods of drought
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – requires frequent mowing, fertilization, and watering to maintain its health and appearance
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches – increase the mowing height during bouts of extreme heat or drought
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – can be prone to leaf spot, spring dead spot, brown patch, and dollar spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – mostly prone to armyworms, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, and white grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This grass species is notable for its extraordinary potential for quick growth, making it a favored alternative for homeowners seeking fast recovery from damage. However, this aggressive growth can have negative implications because it can cause the grass to invade and overrun other carefully manicured areas or nearby flower beds.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carpetgrass-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Sugeesh / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDespite its similar appearance to crabgrass, carpetgrass has distinct qualities that make it a favored choice for homeowners in the southern parts of the state who are dealing with problematic lawn conditions. Specifically, it has the ability to thrive in areas that are prone to drought and lack nutrients, which makes it an attractive option when other types of grass may struggle to survive.
\n\n\n\nIn addition, carpetgrass also can grow and flourish in areas with limited sunlight, such as those surrounded by trees or other structures that block out the sun. This characteristic sets it apart from other grasses that may not be able to adapt to such conditions.
\n\n\n\nAlso referred to as Louisianagrass, this type of grass is able to withstand flooding and other water-related challenges. It can tolerate standing water for prolonged periods, which makes it an excellent option for properties that are susceptible to hurricanes, heavy rainfall, and flooding or that have poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nAnother benefit of carpetgrass is that it can grow without the need for additional fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. While some homeowners may choose to apply nitrogen to encourage growth, it is not necessary for the grass to thrive.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – although St. Augustinegrass is more shade-tolerant
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – it needs weekly mowing to control its tall seed heads
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low resistance – can be susceptible to large patch
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – mostly prone to white grubs and nematodes
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Sandy, moist, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Late spring to early summer is the optimal time to reseed carpetgrass, as the warm soil temperature will promote seed germination.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCommonly found in lawns across the southern U.S., centipedegrass is known for its dense, low-growing, and carpet-like appearance. Unlike other turfgrasses, this warm-season grass requires minimal mowing, fertilizer, and water, making it a great option for low-maintenance grass. In fact, it’s known as the “lazy man’s grass.”
\n\n\n\nWith a preference for partial shade and well-drained soils, centipedegrass is perfect for those who want a lawn that doesn’t need regular upkeep. Although it may not have the same deep green color as other types of grass, centipedegrass produces beautiful seed heads that become brown as they mature.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – grows best in areas with the most sun exposure but can survive even with six hours of direct sunlight per day
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low to moderate – may become dormant during long periods of drought
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low – thrives even with minimal fertilization, mowing, and watering
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5-2 inches – for shaded areas, raise the mower height by half an inch
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – can be prone to iron chlorosis and centipedegrass decline
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate resistance – mostly prone to ground pearl insects, nematodes, spittlebugs, sod webworms, and mole crickets
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, and well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This grass variety is ideal for homes in central South Carolina and most of the state.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Palmetto-St.-Augustine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as Charleston grass, St. Augustinegrass is a popular choice for lawns in coastal homes due to its ability to thrive in both sandy and clay soils. This makes it ideal for many areas along the Carolina coast. It can withstand the heat and salt that is common in these beachfront properties while also preferring warm winters and moist soil conditions.
\n\n\n\nWith its flat stems and broad leaves, St. Augustinegrass creates a lush and dense turf, resulting in a beautiful blue-green lawn. Its thick growth also makes it effective at crowding out most weeds. However, this grass variety is susceptible to fungal diseases and pests like chinch bugs.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – some cultivars are more shade-tolerant
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – needs frequent watering, mowing, and fertilization
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow tall in shade, standard cultivars 3-4 inches, and dwarf cultivars 2.5-3 inches)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate resistance – mostly prone to gray leaf spot, take-all root rot, and large patch
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – common pests include mole crickets, grubs, cutworms, chinch bugs, armyworms, webworms, and grass loopers
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers moist (not muddy) and moderately fertile soil but can grow in most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: St. Augustinegrass is native to coastal regions and thrives in moist soils and temperate winters. But with the right growing conditions, it also can grow successfully in inland regions. Note, though, that compacted, clay soils would not be suitable for this grass variety.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/solar-panels-working-2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Billy Lau / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWith its striking, dark green color and coarse, textured appearance, this cool-season grass is ideal for lawns in the northwestern parts of the state, like Greenville. It can withstand a wide range of growing conditions, including shade, heat, and drought.
\n\n\n\nOne of the benefits of tall fescue is its ability to maintain a deep root system, which allows it to maintain its green appearance. Although it requires moderate maintenance, including regular watering, fertilization, and mowing, this grass variety is known for its resilience, making it an excellent option for lawns that experience heavy foot traffic or environmental stressors.
\n\n\n\nWhile it may not have the same fine-textured appearance as other grass types, tall fescue’s hardiness makes it a favorite among homeowners who prioritize lawn health and longevity over aesthetics.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Tillers (Bunch forming)
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate – doesn’t recover easily from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations, as many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side.)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate resistance – can be prone to leaf spot, seedling disease, and brown patch
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low to moderate resistance – can be susceptible to armyworms, cutworms, sod webworms, and grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in most soil types but prefers clay soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: For optimal results, apply fertilizer once during the months of September and November. Also, plant fresh grass seeds every couple of years if you wish to maintain a lush lawn and tackle any sparse or thinning spots.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAnother popular choice for lawns in South Carolina, Zoysiagrass grows well in hot and dry conditions – making it well-suited for the region’s climate. This warm-season turfgrass boasts a light green color and fine texture, creating a dense, carpet-like appearance. And because of its low to moderate maintenance needs, it’s a fantastic choice for homeowners who want a beautiful lawn without a lot of work.
\n\n\n\nOne of the standout features of Zoysiagrass is its ability to spread rapidly, thanks to its rhizomes and stolons. This allows it to quickly establish a thick and resilient turf that can withstand heavy foot traffic and pet use. Also, remember that although it can tolerate some shade, it prefers direct sunlight.
\n\n\n\nWhile Zoysiagrass requires less maintenance than some other grass varieties, it still needs proper care and attention to remain healthy and beautiful. This includes infrequent watering, fertilization, and mowing at the appropriate height.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate – it needs ample sun exposure
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High – although it needs supplemental watering during dry periods
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – common diseases include large patch, fairy rings, leaf spot, dollar spot, curvularia, brown patch, root decline, powdery mildew, pythium blight, rust, and spring dead spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate resistance – can be prone to chinch bugs, nematodes, armyworms, hunting billbugs, grubs, sod webworms, and mole crickets
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in most soil types but prefers well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This grass variety is the top choice for homeowners who often organize backyard barbeques since it can withstand heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nLawns that experience heavy foot traffic require grass varieties that can withstand wear and tear. So if you’re looking for a grass type that can hold up to frequent use, both bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass are popular options. These grasses are known for their deep root systems, which help them stay resilient even when subjected to heavy foot traffic.
Caring for a lawn in a transition zone can be confusing, as it is located between the cool-season and warm-season grass regions. The best approach is to choose a grass type adaptable to both hot and cold temperatures and do the following:
• Fertilize it twice a year, in the fall and spring, with a balanced fertilizer.
• Water the lawn infrequently but deeply, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
• Aerate the soil in the fall or spring to improve drainage and nutrient absorption.
• Mow the grass to its recommended height, and leave some of the clippings to provide nutrients.
Also, monitor your lawn for pests and diseases, as the transitional climate can create favorable conditions for both. Look for signs of stress, such as discoloration or wilting, and address any issues promptly.
To have a pet-friendly lawn, choose a grass variety that can tolerate the challenges posed by pets, such as wear and tear, frequent paw traffic, and pet waste. For this purpose, many homeowners prefer tough grass varieties like bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass. These grasses are known for their ability to withstand the challenges of pet use, making them excellent candidates for a pet-friendly lawn in South Carolina.
Choosing the right grass for your lawn in South Carolina can be tricky. But by considering factors like moisture, sunlight, and maintenance requirements, you can find the perfect match for your specific needs. Whether you opt for the heat-tolerant bermudagrass or the resilient tall fescue, each of these grass types has unique strengths that make it a great choice for South Carolina’s unique climate and soil conditions.
\n\n\n\nBy giving your lawn the proper care and attention it deserves, you can ensure it stays healthy and vibrant year-round, enhancing the beauty and value of your home.
Reach out to a local lawn care professional today, and get started on your journey toward a lush, green yard that you can be proud of.
Main Image Credit: Anderson University, South Carolina / Good Grades / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for South Carolina","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/1789c/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/107df/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 320w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/293e9/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 500w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/f2cbb/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 800w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/1789c/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 960w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/c26c2/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/1dd6e/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/67b76/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 320w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/8df11/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 500w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/98a65/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 800w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/1dd6e/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 960w,\n/static/a088d73714046ad04ff8f46577db9649/3cc96/1280px-The_Front_Lawn_on_the_Campus_of_Anderson_University_South_Carolina.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for South Carolina | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Looking for the perfect grass type for your yard? Discover the 6 best grass types for South Carolina's climate and enjoy a lush, healthy lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"12079b63-c350-5089-acfb-b5b85faa5833","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-corpus-christi","path":"/lawn-care/tx/corpus-christi/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-corpus-christi/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"bce60eef-f246-5798-b50e-2cd265e2d7a4","name":"Corpus Christi","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/corpus-christi/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"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
\n","title":"10 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Corpus Christi, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/1789c/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/107df/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 320w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/293e9/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 500w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/f2cbb/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 800w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/1789c/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 960w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/c26c2/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/1dd6e/Hurricane_Hanna.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/67b76/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 320w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/8df11/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 500w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/98a65/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 800w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/1dd6e/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 960w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/3cc96/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Corpus Christi, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Worry less about your storm preparedness with these hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for Corpus Christi, including the estimated cost of each."}}},{"node":{"id":"896ca5d7-6c87-54a3-bffa-b671568858c2","slug":"fall-lawn-care-checklist-for-maryland","path":"/lawn-care/md/fall-lawn-care-checklist-for-maryland/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Amy Adams is a freelance writer and former newspaper journalist. She grew up in Kansas but has been living in Florida for the past 15 years and has no intentions of ever moving back!","name":"Amy Adams","id":"eb80c67d-0627-5815-9dd0-304031dbe1be","path":"/author/amy-adams/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8e73c6ada90c41863cce7b93d142c7d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"2a5e33f9-ad47-575e-b414-2fa0c9049fd1","name":"Maryland","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/md/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"Pumpkin spice lattes, sweaters, and colorful autumn foliage make fall really fun in Maryland. But the fabulous fall colors on the leaves also remind us that just because summer may be coming to a close doesn’t mean we can ignore our yard. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. As the landscape transforms into a breathtaking […]
\n","content":"\nPumpkin spice lattes, sweaters, and colorful autumn foliage make fall really fun in Maryland. But the fabulous fall colors on the leaves also remind us that just because summer may be coming to a close doesn’t mean we can ignore our yard. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.
\n\n\n\nAs the landscape transforms into a breathtaking palette of fall colors, you must get ready to give your lawn TLC. With this fall lawn care checklist for Maryland, you can better prepare your yard for the changing seasons – harmonizing nature’s beauty with a vibrant and well-nurtured canvas.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nNeglecting your lawn during this season risks dire consequences for your yard come spring. Contrary to popular belief, lawn care extends beyond the summer months. With cooler temperatures, fall provides the ideal environment for these essential practices:
\n\n\n\nUnleash the transformative power of fall lawn care – preserving the beauty of your yard and setting the stage for a breathtaking spring.
\n\n\n\nAs the season winds down, don’t hang up your lawn care hat just yet. Fall is the best time for basic lawn maintenance that can help promote root development and good soil conditions. With the help of these fall lawn care tips, you can ensure your lawn will come back better than ever next spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3768077054_1a9fc5e9a5_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michael Mol / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nNow that summer has passed, you may be tempted to put away your sprinkler for the year, but it’s best to keep it out just a bit longer. Properly watering your lawn is essential for it to continue coming back each spring.
\n\n\n\nKeeping your lawn watered is especially important for late-season nitrogen applications to work properly. Otherwise, the fertilizer is less likely to enhance root growth if your grass is dry, rendering the fertilizer application useless.
\n\n\n\nAn underwatered lawn will become brown and crunchy, and the dirt will become dusty as the grass stops growing. Nevertheless, be careful not to overwater, as this can cause weeds and fungal diseases. An overwatered lawn will quickly become luscious and green, then become limp and spongy before fading to brown and moss.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue, the most common type of grass in Maryland, needs approximately 1 inch of water per week.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fall-leaves-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures / Pixabay / License
\n\n\n\nRaking leaves can be one of the most exhausting and back-breaking fall chores, yet it’s necessary. And chances are, you may not be raking your leaves as often as you should.
\n\n\n\nRake early, and rake often. Don’t wait until your trees are mostly or completely bare before you clear the leaves from your yard. You should rid your lawn of leaves as soon as possible. A rule of thumb is to rake your leaves one to two times a week once they start falling. If you do put it off, make sure your yard is clear of leaves before the first frost of the season.
\n\n\n\nWaiting to remove leaves from your lawn can cause them to suffocate the grass. Over time leaves will become wet from rain and morning dew – causing them to stick together and form a barrier.
\n\n\n\nThis barrier filters out essential sunlight and water, preventing vital nutrients from reaching the roots. It also creates the perfect environment for weeds, rodents, insects, and diseases.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to save yourself from the back pain of raking, especially if you have lots of trees or a large yard, you can use a lawnmower with a collection bag or vacuum system to clear the leaves.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/solar-panels-working-8-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: groveb / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIt’s a common misconception that it’s best to fertilize in the spring when it’s actually better to fertilize your lawn in the fall. During this season, grass recovers from the summer heat and drought while preparing for the upcoming winter months. But if you don’t fertilize in the fall, you should do it in the spring.
\n\n\n\nFall fertilization advantages:
\n\n\n\nIt’s recommended to apply fertilizer twice in the fall. The first round should be applied just after Labor Day, and the second should be when you mow the last time for the year.
\n\n\n\nEarly fall fertilization increases turf density without promoting excess growth. On the other hand, late fall fertilization increases root growth and carbohydrate storage to help the grass survive winter and prepare for the spring’s new growth.
\n\n\n\nIf you only fertilize once, then aim to fertilize in September. According to Maryland’s Lawn Fertilizer Law, fertilizer cannot be applied between Nov. 15 through March 1, so plan accordingly.
\n\n\n\nTypes of fertilizer:
\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\nWeeds. They seem to be an ever-present annoyance. Whether you are currently fighting a weed infestation or are looking to prevent weeds, fall is the time to treat them.
\n\n\n\nThere are two types of treatment:
\n\n\n\nWeeds can invade even the healthiest and luscious of lawns. If left untreated, weeds will consume the valuable nutrients intended for your grass – causing your lawn to look dull and drab. These results happen because your grass will be robbed of essential water, clean air, and direct sunlight. Your grass will become weak and susceptible to disease and insect infestations.
\n\n\n\n![\"Person](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/aerate-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeffoto / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nAs you prepare your grass for the upcoming winter weather, it’s also the best time to aerate your lawn. It will help:
\n\n\n\nAeration also energizes your lawn’s root system to expand before winter, which will help it survive the harsh winter months and return healthy and vibrant in the spring.
\n\n\n\nTypes of aeration:
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: It’s usually best to hire a professional to aerate your lawn. This takes time and the proper equipment to do it right.
\n\n\n\n![\"grass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/overseed-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Elena Photo / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nAs the seasons transition, you can seize the opportunity to overseed your lawn. Amidst the autumnal landscape, when weeds retreat, dispersing grass seeds over your established lawn will yield better results. Doing this helps fill in bare areas and thicken up the lawn to provide a more dense and fluffy appearance.
\n\n\n\nBut don’t forget to water – it’s an essential part of the seeding process. A newly seeded lawn needs to be watered lightly every day. You don’t want your seeds to dry out, or they won’t germinate.
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to overseed between mid-August to mid-September. Be sure to plant at least 45 days before the first frost, and don’t seed past Oct. 15. This will give your seed time to get established after the heat of the summer but before it goes dormant for the winter.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_4353671803_e0e987132b_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: sean hobson / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nJust because the calendar hit September doesn’t mean it’s time to store the lawn mower for the season. You want to continue mowing your lawn throughout the fall. It’s best to slowly taper your grass down rather than mowing it short once.
\n\n\n\nAlso, maintain proper grass heights. Cutting grass too short may cause its root system to freeze. On the other hand, letting your grass grow too long can cause it to become matted and diseased. For example, tall fescue should be kept about 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nWhen in doubt, follow the one-third rule: Cut one-third of your grass’s length. You never want to cut more because it can make it susceptible to weeds, pests, and disease.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Mowing Height |
| Fine fescue | 3 – 4 inches |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2 – 3 inches |
| Perennial ryegrass | 2 – 3 inches |
| Tall fescue | 2 – 4 inches |
| Bermudagrass | 1 – 2 inches |
| St. Augustinegrass | 2.5 – 4 inches |
| Zoysiagrass | 1 – 2.5 inches |
![\"draining](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/hose-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: SLRadcliffe / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nOne last task before you can call it quits for the season is winterizing your sprinkler system. Any water remaining in your pipes over the winter can lead to frozen pipes, broken sprinkler heads, and cracked plastic. So, completely drain all water from your irrigation system. Come springtime, and you’ll be glad you did.
\n\n\n\nSince Maryland is in a transition zone, both cool and warm-season grasses can grow here. But with its hot summers and cold winters, you need to select grass species that can withstand both extremes. Moreover, different regions in the Old Line State have varying soil compositions, such as clay-heavy or sandy soil, which can impact drainage and root growth.
Plus, irregular rain patterns require careful water management to avoid drought stress or excessive moisture. The state’s diverse ecosystem contributes to pest and disease pressure, necessitating proactive lawn maintenance and pest management strategies. Additionally, coastal areas may face higher humidity levels and salt spray challenges.
Yes, absolutely. There are numerous ways to create a low-maintenance landscape, and one of the best ways is to replace all or just a part of your lawn with a grass alternative. Planting grass alternatives will help eliminate the need for regular mowing, cutting down the time needed for landscape maintenance.
Grass alternatives:
● Garden beds or borders
● Groundcovers
● Moss
● Mulches
● No-mow/natural areas
● Ornamental grasses
● Trees
Yes. Knowing your soil’s pH is the best way to know what amendments might be needed to your soil and what kind of fertilizer to use on your lawn.
Test your soil with a DIY kit. You can buy these kits from your local garden center or home improvement store. Or contact your local extension office for professional testing. Test sooner rather than later to prevent problems down the road.
Maryland soil sometimes lacks proper amounts of boron, zinc, and manganese. The results of your soil test will show whether you need to add a few elements to balance your soil’s pH for optimal growth.
Since Maryland is in a transition zone, both cool and warm-season grasses can grow here. But with its hot summers and cold winters, you need to select grass species that can withstand both extremes. Moreover, different regions in the Old Line State have varying soil compositions, such as clay-heavy or sandy soil, which can impact drainage and root growth.
\n\n\n\nPlus, irregular rain patterns require careful water management to avoid drought stress or excessive moisture. The state’s diverse ecosystem contributes to pest and disease pressure, necessitating proactive lawn maintenance and pest management strategies. Additionally, coastal areas may face higher humidity levels and salt spray challenges.
\n\n\n\nYes, absolutely. There are numerous ways to create a low-maintenance landscape, and one of the best ways is to replace all or just a part of your lawn with a grass alternative. Planting grass alternatives will help eliminate the need for regular mowing, cutting down the time needed for landscape maintenance.
\n\n\n\nGrass alternatives:
\n\n\n\nYes. Knowing your soil’s pH is the best way to know what amendments might be needed to your soil and what kind of fertilizer to use on your lawn.
\n\n\n\nTest your soil with a DIY kit. You can buy these kits from your local garden center or home improvement store. Or contact your local extension office for professional testing. Test sooner rather than later to prevent problems down the road.
\n\n\n\nMaryland soil sometimes lacks proper amounts of boron, zinc, and manganese. The results of your soil test will show whether you need to add a few elements to balance your soil’s pH for optimal growth.
\n\n\n\nElevate your yard’s potential by preparing it for the coming winter, ensuring a triumphant return next spring — vibrant, robust, and more breathtaking than ever.
\n\n\n\nWhether you live in Baltimore, Frederick, Ocean City, Annapolis, or any of Maryland’s amazing towns, let us help you find a lawn care pro near you to help transform your lawn into a masterpiece that will leave your neighbors in awe.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: DenisTangneyJr / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n","title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Maryland","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/1789c/Untitled-design.jpg","srcSet":"/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/107df/Untitled-design.jpg 320w,\n/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/293e9/Untitled-design.jpg 500w,\n/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/f2cbb/Untitled-design.jpg 800w,\n/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/1789c/Untitled-design.jpg 960w,\n/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/c26c2/Untitled-design.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/1dd6e/Untitled-design.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/67b76/Untitled-design.webp 320w,\n/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/8df11/Untitled-design.webp 500w,\n/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/98a65/Untitled-design.webp 800w,\n/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/1dd6e/Untitled-design.webp 960w,\n/static/22998ec92b0ae0359d6925d32f9d5f49/3cc96/Untitled-design.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Maryland | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Prepare your lawn for the winter chill with this comprehensive fall lawn care checklist for Maryland."}}},{"node":{"id":"7afd625a-0d74-5637-99ee-b850a6d114f0","slug":"worst-pests-columbus","path":"/lawn-care/oh/columbus/worst-pests-columbus/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5eab8b19-684d-573f-929d-53dda702846c","name":"Columbus","count":9,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/columbus/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"August 12th, 2019","excerpt":"You look forward to it all year long: backyard barbecue season. But the bugs really put a damper on things — especially in Central Ohio where heat, humidity, and rain attract the worst pests in Columbus. Mosquitos, stinkbugs, ticks, crickets, and other creepy-crawly things love to call Columbus home. And they love to make […]
\n","content":"\nYou look forward to it all year long: backyard barbecue season. But the bugs really put a damper on things — especially in Central Ohio where heat, humidity, and rain attract the worst pests in Columbus.
\n\n\n\nMosquitos, stinkbugs, ticks, crickets, and other creepy-crawly things love to call Columbus home. And they love to make themselves at home in your backyard. Along with proper lawn care, there are some ways to curtail the worst pests in Columbus. Learn how to get rid of them and control infestations.
\n\n\n\nThese bloodsuckers are part of every backyard. Bats and some birds are natural predators, but some people are more freaked out by the idea of a bat house. Insect repellants with DEET or Picaridin are effective in warding off the little buggers. Citronella candles are also helpful, although not as long-lasting.
\n\n\n\nAlong with vegetation, mosquitoes like moisture. They breed in stagnant water such as puddles, storm pipes, and rain buckets. Dump out standing water from buckets, old tires, and outdoor containers. Mosquito-repelling plants include marigolds, lavender, lemon eucalyptus, peppermint, chrysanthemums, and citronella.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll find these critters in most Columbus backyards, snacking on flowers and leaves of ornamental trees and shrubs. These bright metallic green insects appear in late June through September, and they’re tough to get rid of. If it’s a small infestation, you may be able to remove them by hand or use a pheromone trap. A word of warning: Those “bag a bug” methods tend to attract more insects than they catch. A neem or pyrethrin insecticide is often more effective.
\n\n\n\nNeem oil is an organic pesticide that controls a host of backyard bugs, including aphids, cabbage loopers, leafhoppers, scale, sawflies, chinch bugs, and spider mites.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/d6m8zouFNIdaVgNXK1wRhHkLhom97CrMMkPc4gRTzgPGPvFz8fUyYXv-shuB3UYDtxsV7xqBfRKi6F4Yxntb2ry0fJ4QLLnFdT5Ne0bUvr1dS2NOUq0DEnx-Mla6Nsisk8STOthU\")
These are the worst backyard pests in Columbus if you’re sensitive to droning noise. You’ll hear them singing their trilling, ringing songs in Central Oho backyards from June until September. They feed off leaves, roots, and trees where the soil is moist but not too wet. Cicadas are often mistaken for locusts. Chemical treatments are usually not effective or necessary. If you really want to get rid of cicadas, spray a garden hose into trees and shrubs to knock the insects out of them. Protect plants with sticky tape or netting to prevent cicadas from feeding or laying eggs.
\n\n\n\nColumbus and Central Ohio have its share of backyard pests and the list is rather daunting.
\n\n\n\nSoapy water helps to remove small numbers of aphids, mealybugs, and thrips. For higher populations, insecticidal soap or pesticides are more suitable. You can make an eco-friendly bug spray with soap, oil, and water.
\n\n\n\nDifficult to control with ordinary pesticides but insecticidal soap works on some of the immature larvae.
\n\n\n\n![\"Caterpillar,](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/21AG80_bT15o-L7m9aCvdufz636l9K8xhW8zovdN38s-WJqUXWHsWPfnZdNpPz339kyN3vxMa32c11B1jmw11t2NxcZly7n_js5Rc8QfVglCKnNVqc-266qGo_lw3CZlJh9EBGAf\")
Registered pesticides are best for these insects, with the granules applied directly to the soil.
\n\n\n\nAphids have a lot of natural backyard predators (lady beetles and lacewings, etc.). You can also control them with insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and strong jets of water.
\n\n\n\nThere is no magic cure to get rid of all backyard insects. The Ohio State University Extension calls it integrated pest management — a process to minimize damage. Pesticides, whether they’re organic or chemical, can sometimes kill the beneficial insects. These are the bugs that eat the worst backyard pests in Columbus.
\n\n\n\nYou can squash the bug problem by choosing disease-controlled and insect-resistant plants and trees. Keep in mind, native plants have built up resistance to the bugs over the years. Keep your grass mowed and weed-free, so the pests have no place to hide or nest.
\n\n\n\nNeed more information about lawn care in Columbus and Central Ohio? Check out our Columbus Lawn Care page.
With large seasonal changes in temperature, you don’t want to spend hours taking care of your lawn’s maintenance needs. Michigan’s humid summer months and harsh winters can make it difficult to get things done. With low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, you will worry less about yard maintenance and more about the Wolverines beating the Ohio […]
\n","content":"\nWith large seasonal changes in temperature, you don’t want to spend hours taking care of your lawn’s maintenance needs. Michigan’s humid summer months and harsh winters can make it difficult to get things done. With low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, you will worry less about yard maintenance and more about the Wolverines beating the Ohio State Buckeyes.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/4608457413_921dff2b0e_c-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Rachel Kramer / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAdding mulch to your flower or garden beds is a simple way to start your low-maintenance landscaping project. Mulch is used to retain moisture in the soil, keep it cool, and suppress weeds. Overall, it can make your garden bed look more attractive.
\n\n\n\nThere are two types of mulch for you to choose from, depending on your landscape preferences.
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The amount you spend on mulch depends on which type you choose. For example, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2 cubic foot bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/48860292107_f132194844_k-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Garry Knight / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you add native plants to your garden, you can sit back and watch them thrive with nothing to worry about. They are adapted to Michigan’s climate and need very little care to survive. They help preserve the local ecosystem and serve as a valuable food source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other small mammals. Despite minimal watering and fertilizing needs, Michigan’s native plants may still require the occasional pruning.
\n\n\n\nBelow are some low-maintenance plants to consider:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on the plant’s type and size, expect to pay between $600 and $3,000 per flower bed, $25 and $50 per shrub, $150 and $3,000 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Serviceberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTired of buying new plants every year? That is the problem with annuals, so consider replacing them with perennial plants. They thrive in Michigan’s climate, can live for several years, and require little maintenance once established. Some native perennials will grow to provide lots of shade, so you may sip on those afternoon cocktails and enjoy your outdoor living space.
\n\n\n\nHere are some suggestions:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of perennials depends on the plant’s size and type. On average, a perennial plant will cost you between $10 and $100.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Geranium_maculatum_11zz.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGroundcovers native to Michigan can be a valuable addition to your low-maintenance landscape. These low-growing plants add color and fragrance to your lawn, with no mowing required. By replacing grassy areas, groundcovers will help you spend less time on watering and other maintenance needs.
\n\n\n\nExamples of groundcovers suitable for Michigan include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on which type you choose, a groundcover will typically cost you between $4 and $40.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to native plants, hardscapes are naturally low-maintenance landscaping features. It can be any type of decorative or practical structure in your front or back yard. Hardscape features will not require any watering, pruning, or fertilizing.
\n\n\n\nHowever, some installations may still require the occasional upkeep. If you lack experience, consulting or hiring a pro will help you choose the right features for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nExamples of hardscaping include the following:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost depends on the project size and the type of feature you choose. Expect to pay between $1,140 and $3,690 for a water feature, $2,600 and $7,300 for a patio, $2,000 and $4,500 for fencing.
\n\n\n\n![\"Native](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeremy Levine / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nXeriscaping is a cost-effective idea that helps you obtain a low-water and low-maintenance garden. It aims to use very little water while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and eco-friendly landscape. Xeriscaping is also wildlife-friendly, attracting beneficial insects, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of low-maintenance xeriscaping include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, the cost of xeriscaping ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-Turf.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor a year-round green lawn, replacing your traditional turf with artificial grass is the way to go. Over the years, it has become a very popular low-maintenance landscaping option. It has a very life-like appearance, withstands heavy foot traffic, and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of hiring a pro to install artificial grass ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot on average.
\n\n\n\nGiven Michigan’s climate, it is no surprise that cool-season grasses dominate the list for the area’s best turfgrasses. You will still need to consider your soil type and maintenance preferences before choosing the right grass for your Michigan yard.
Kentucky bluegrass is perfect for high-traffic lawns due to its quick recovery from wear and tear. On the other hand, chewing fescue is a fine fescue cultivar that is ideal for shady lawns. Tall fescue is another cool-season grass that can tolerate heat better than others.
To learn more about the grasses that thrive in your region, check out our guide on the best grass types for Michigan.
Ornamental grasses add a natural feel to your landscape. They can be used in groups or specimens, and most types are happy without supplemental water. They only need to be cut back once a year, ideally in spring.
Here are some examples of ornamental grasses for your Michigan landscape:
• Feather reed grass
• Tufted hair grass
• Blue oats grass
• Japanese silver grass
Succulents that are suitable to grow in Michigan will generally survive during the winter. However, below freezing temperatures for long periods can harm the succulents. These plants store water in their stems and leaves, meaning they could die as the water freezes inside them.
Even the best low-maintenance landscape requires the occasional upkeep. For minimal yard work, you can hire a landscaping company to mow your lawn and maintain your garden beds. Experienced pros also know how to maintain hardscape, irrigation systems, and other features in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a lawn care pro near you to handle the lawn’s mowing, trimming, and edging, we have trusted professionals in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Spring Lake, and many more cities across Michigan.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Gateway Garden, Matthaei Botanical Gardens / Dwight Burdette / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"7 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Michigan","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1789c/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/107df/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 320w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/293e9/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 500w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/f2cbb/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 800w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1789c/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 960w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/c26c2/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1dd6e/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/67b76/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 320w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/8df11/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 500w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/98a65/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 800w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1dd6e/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 960w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/3cc96/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Michigan","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With 7 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, reduce the amount of yard work and enjoy family trips to Tahquamenon Falls."}}},{"node":{"id":"9667e3d2-dcaa-59eb-8fe1-655d7f1993e5","slug":"when-to-fertilize-lawn","path":"/lawn-care/when-to-fertilize-lawn/","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/"}],"date":"June 5th, 2023","excerpt":"Like 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. Fertilizing is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Just as […]
\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":"eeacba4c-f058-5265-8b2d-80e7fe772aa0","slug":"best-grass-types-pennsylvania","path":"/lawn-care/pa/best-grass-types-pennsylvania/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"2d317bbd-578b-5162-8946-7b230bb15f85","name":"Pennsylvania","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/pa/"}],"date":"April 28th, 2023","excerpt":"Selecting the appropriate grass type is critical in achieving a stunning lawn in Pennsylvania, given its varying climates. To help you make the best decision, we’ve compiled a list of the best grass types for Pennsylvania. From the well-known Kentucky bluegrass to the hardy and low-maintenance fine fescue, we’ll guide you in picking the perfect […]
\n","content":"\nSelecting the appropriate grass type is critical in achieving a stunning lawn in Pennsylvania, given its varying climates. To help you make the best decision, we’ve compiled a list of the best grass types for Pennsylvania.
\n\n\n\nFrom the well-known Kentucky bluegrass to the hardy and low-maintenance fine fescue, we’ll guide you in picking the perfect grass that suits your lawn’s unique needs. Ensure your lawn can withstand the challenges of Pennsylvania’s changing seasons by choosing the right grass variety.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen planting grass, it’s necessary to choose between warm-season and cool-season grasses based on the climate of your region. Cool-season grasses thrive throughout Pennsylvania. Zoysiagrass, a warm-season grass, can grow in the southernmost portions of Pennsylvania, where temperatures are warmer.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses flourish in higher temperatures. During late autumn and winter, warm-season grasses go dormant, but they stay green in late spring and summer. Conversely, cool-season grasses remain green in spring and autumn. They keep the soil warm and cozy in cooler months.
\n\n\n\nUltimately, the decision of which grass to plant hinges on the climate and weather conditions in your area. Both types of grasses, however, have the potential to create a beautiful lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe following grasses thrive in Pennsylvania’s cool and humid climate. As the name suggests, cool-season grass grows actively in the cooler months. Continue reading to learn more about the perfect cool-season grass for your backyard.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is an excellent choice if you’re looking to prevent erosion in your yard while achieving a uniform and attractive look. This grass variety is durable, withstands moderate foot traffic, and recovers quickly, making it perfect for backyard gatherings.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it can tolerate drought, it may turn brown during hot, dry summers, as with all cool-season grasses. However, if you want a low-maintenance option, Kentucky bluegrass may not be the best choice, as it requires fertilizer, is susceptible to disease, and needs frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Tolerates close, frequent grazing better than most grasses. Forms tight sod.
\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\nWith its fine texture, dark green color, and lush appearance, perennial ryegrass is a commonly used grass in various settings, such as athletic fields, landscapes, and cattle fields. It’s particularly popular among homeowners who enjoy spending time outdoors, thanks to its rapid growth and a high tolerance for foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nWhile perennial ryegrass thrives in sunny areas, it can also handle partial shade. However, remember that this grass type requires significant water usage and does not tolerate drought well. So, if you’re considering incorporating ryegrasses into your yard, keeping this in mind is crucial.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spots, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8 but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It is often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass for a more traffic-tolerant and disease-resistant turf.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James K. Lindsey / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nFine fescue, particularly the chewings variety, is highly regarded among cool-season grasses with its delicate texture and impressive ability to tolerate shade. If you have a shaded backyard, fine fescues may be an excellent grass type to consider.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, fine fescues are low-maintenance, requiring less water, fertilizer, and mowing than other grass types. As long as they receive regular watering, they are the perfect option for busy homeowners who want to enjoy a beautiful landscape without the additional maintenance effort.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. It prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Fine fescue grasses are often added to mixtures with other cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass, to create a dense, attractive lawn that can withstand shade and drought.
\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\nTall fescue has a beautiful deep green color and coarse texture. Its deep root system enables it to withstand heat and drought conditions better than other grass types.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a great low-maintenance option as long as you don’t mind frequent mowing. Its rapid growth, deep root system, and low maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for your yard. Consider incorporating tall fescue into your landscaping if this sounds appealing to you.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Many tall fescue lawns become thin after hot, dry summer conditions. Thin, tall fescue lawns can form clumps and become unsightly. To prevent this from occurring, it’s usually necessary to overseed tall fescue lawns in the fall.
\n\n\n\nThe southernmost portion of Pennsylvania rests in the transition zone, which provides optimal conditions for both cool-season and warm-season grasses to grow. While Pennsylvania’s grass of choice tends to be cool-season grass, Zoysiagrass is a popular warm-season grass for Pennsylvania’s southernmost lawns.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nA warm-season grass, Zoysiagrass is highly desirable for its lush appearance and ability to feel comfortable walking barefoot.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is perfect for high-traffic areas, making it an excellent choice for households with children or pets. However, it should be noted that it has a slow recovery rate, so it may take some time to heal from any damage caused by heavy traffic. Zoysiagrass only has a moderate tolerance to shady areas, which means it needs sunlight to grow.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, Zoysiagrass has a high salt tolerance. Overall, Zoysiagrass is an excellent option for southern Pennsylvania homeowners looking for a lawn that can handle high traffic and warmer weather.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Zoysia has a remarkable ability to thrive in drought conditions due to its deep-rooted nature, allowing it to reach groundwater and adapt to different environments.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for grass options for your lawn in the western region of Pennsylvania, tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass are recommended.
Pennsylvania lawns primarily grow cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and tall fescue.
Fine fescue is among the easiest cool-season grasses to maintain. It’s known for its fine texture, shade tolerance, and low maintenance requirements, making it an attractive option for homeowners and landscapers.
Select the right grass for your lawn by considering your available space, how often you expect to walk in the yard, and how much maintenance you’re willing to perform to keep a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nFor instance, Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass can handle the foot traffic if you plan to host parties and barbecues. If you have a shaded yard, fine fescue is an excellent option. For a low-maintenance lawn, consider tall fescue or fine fescue.
\n\n\n\nIt’s essential to note that grass is just one aspect of a beautiful landscape, as there are many low-maintenance landscaping options and native plants in Pennsylvania. Need the help of a Pennsylvania lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Pittsburgh and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: sk / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Pennsylvania","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/1789c/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/107df/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 320w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/293e9/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 500w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/f2cbb/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 800w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/1789c/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 960w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/c26c2/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/1dd6e/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/67b76/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 320w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/8df11/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 500w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/98a65/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 800w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/1dd6e/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 960w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/3cc96/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Pennsylvania | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the 5 best grass types for Pennsylvania. Achieve a charming lawn that can withstand Pennsylvania's seasonal changes."}}},{"node":{"id":"88b78703-c6e7-5dcc-ba32-d3b3cdccca73","slug":"water-restrictions-in-fort-worth-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/water-restrictions-in-fort-worth-texas/","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":"9ccd5174-167e-5379-890b-68ac830ec905","name":"Forth Worth","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 17th, 2019","excerpt":"Water is our most precious resource. That’s why the city of Fort Worth has implemented year-round water restrictions limiting the amount we use. This comes at a time when many drought-prone areas are imposing similar restrictions. The city’s don’t want us to stop watering, just to water smartly. You can do that by familiarizing yourself […]
\n","content":"\nWater is our most precious resource. That’s why the city of Fort Worth has implemented year-round water restrictions limiting the amount we use. This comes at a time when many drought-prone areas are imposing similar restrictions. The city’s don’t want us to stop watering, just to water smartly. You can do that by familiarizing yourself with the water restrictions in Fort Worth.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth has implemented a twice a week smart watering system. This means you can water your yard and garden twice a week, but only on certain days.
\n\n\n\nThe water restrictions in Fort Worth also prohibit you from watering while it’s raining. Allowing your sprinkler to water the sidewalks and gutters is also a big no-no. Damaged sprinkler heads that lead to wasted water can also net you a fine.
\n\n\n\nAs of June 1, 2007, any irrigation system installed in the Fort Worth area must include rain and freeze sensors. This prevents automatic sprinklers from turning on when mother nature is watering for us. Before installing a new irrigation system, or retrofitting an old one, you must get a permit. And all commercial irrigation systems must have a sensor and be inspected annually.
\n\n\n\nThere are a few instances where the Twice A Week Smart Watering System does not apply:
\n\n\n\nViolating the City of Fort Worth’s regulations could cost you up to $2,000 for each offense, and each day you’re in violation counts as a separate offense. The city may even go a step further by locking in-ground irrigation systems for homeowners who break the rules. In addition to the fine, there’s a hefty fee to remove the lock-out device on your meter.
\n\n\n\nDo you have more questions about lawn care in Fort Worth? Check out our Fort Worth, TX, lawn care page.
\n","title":"Water Restrictions in Fort Worth, Texas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5058823529411764,"src":"/static/763b128cb13257ebe18cad0d35c968a6/38a09/sprinklers-in-garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/763b128cb13257ebe18cad0d35c968a6/107df/sprinklers-in-garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/763b128cb13257ebe18cad0d35c968a6/293e9/sprinklers-in-garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/763b128cb13257ebe18cad0d35c968a6/38a09/sprinklers-in-garden.jpg 640w","srcWebp":"/static/763b128cb13257ebe18cad0d35c968a6/80c34/sprinklers-in-garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/763b128cb13257ebe18cad0d35c968a6/67b76/sprinklers-in-garden.webp 320w,\n/static/763b128cb13257ebe18cad0d35c968a6/8df11/sprinklers-in-garden.webp 500w,\n/static/763b128cb13257ebe18cad0d35c968a6/80c34/sprinklers-in-garden.webp 640w","sizes":"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Water Restrictions in Fort Worth, Texas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"It's tough to fathom when we'll see the next drought in Texas. Wade through the current water restictions for Fort worth and the fines for violating them."}}},{"node":{"id":"7b5a68ed-1cba-5219-8ff1-1581ee03aef7","slug":"best-native-plants-durham","path":"/lawn-care/nc/durham/best-native-plants-durham/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"3c4f0f7e-d959-5ea1-9a84-f914bbb6828f","name":"Durham","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/durham/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"April 11th, 2023","excerpt":"You 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. Read on to find out more about native plants […]
\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":"278def07-8149-5634-b9f1-24f73f3cf7cf","slug":"spring-lawn-care-tips-columbus","path":"/lawn-care/oh/columbus/spring-lawn-care-tips-columbus/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Andie Ioó is a writer for LawnStarter. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, sports, and trying out new healthy recipes. She also loves reading and watching reruns of classic '90s TV shows.","name":"Andie Ioo","id":"00424d9e-71f7-5a65-a764-eb85c6210e90","path":"/author/andie-ioo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c7090b8e789516e6df2e9bd1a57a1ece?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5eab8b19-684d-573f-929d-53dda702846c","name":"Columbus","count":9,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/columbus/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"April 12th, 2023","excerpt":"Columbus is known for the Ohio Statehouse, a love of football, its arts scene – and unpredictable weather. While it’s hard to compete with Scioto Mile’s perfect green spaces, transforming your Arch City yard into a lush oasis isn’t as hard as it sounds. We’ve put together eight spring lawn care tips for Columbus to […]
\n","content":"\nColumbus is known for the Ohio Statehouse, a love of football, its arts scene – and unpredictable weather. While it’s hard to compete with Scioto Mile’s perfect green spaces, transforming your Arch City yard into a lush oasis isn’t as hard as it sounds.
\n\n\n\nWe’ve put together eight spring lawn care tips for Columbus to help you understand your lawn’s needs in the spring so it can thrive year-round.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nTo enjoy a fresh, healthy lawn in the summer, you’ll need to hit the ground running in the spring. This is when your lawn responds to nature’s wake-up call after a long, cold Columbus winter.
\n\n\n\nFrom mowing, watering, and fertilizing to treating lawn diseases, springtime lawn care is important if you want to enjoy a thick carpet of green come summer.
\n\n\n\nBy tackling a few tasks early, you’ll help your lawn defend itself against potential diseases, drought, and pests. With the proper maintenance, not only will your lawn burst with health, but it will seriously boost your curb appeal and make you the envy of your neighborhood.
\n\n\n\n![\"Person](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pexels-gustavo-fring-5163423.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf it’s springtime, it’s preparation time. Before the grass begins to grow, you’ll want to make sure your lawn equipment is in perfect working condition.
\n\n\n\nHere are some key maintenance checks you should perform sooner rather than later:
\n\n\n\nMaintenance makes a big difference, so get your tools ready ahead of time and have a stress-free summer.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lab](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Soil-Fertility-Analysis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alandmanson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFull, lush lawns can be a beautiful sight, but a lot goes into achieving and maintaining them. If yours isn’t exactly thriving, your soil could be the problem.
\n\n\n\nDepending on each yard, soil composition and acidity levels can differ. By conducting a soil test, you’ll be able to pinpoint soil nutrient needs. Specifically, you’ll get information on soil pH, cation exchange capacity, lime requirement index, and base saturation.
\n\n\n\nPlus, you’ll find out how much phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) your soil contains and whether you need to add soil amendments.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_33362501875_0d0e78d669_o.jpg\")
Photo Credit: UBC Micrometeorology / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn early spring, there is still enough rain to keep your lawn moist and healthy. Consider watering your lawn when you notice the first signs of grass growth. Once you start, make sure your cool-season grass gets around 1 inch of water per week. Balance is essential, and it’s best to let your lawn guide you.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also incredibly important to let your lawn dry between waterings. Too much water can invite fungal disease, weeds, and pests, something neither your lawn nor you will appreciate. While flowers and other landscape plants can handle everyday watering, don’t include your lawn in this schedule.
\n\n\n\nWatering deeply, but more infrequently, will lead to stronger root development and drought-resistance than doing so briefly every day.
\n\n\n\nSigns of an overwatered lawn:
\n\n\n\nUnderwatering won’t do your lawn any favors either. Not keeping up with regular watering will leave your turf looking dry and unhealthy. Your grass will turn gray or tan, and it will have imprints when you walk on it.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to water your lawn is before 10 a.m., preferably around 5 or 6 a.m. Your grass will be able to absorb the moisture before it evaporates. In the afternoon, try to water between 4 and 6 p.m. Watering late at night will make your lawn more susceptible to disease, as the moisture will just sit on your grass overnight.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile lawn mowing is an actual ritual for some homeowners, there’s a certain technique involved.
\n\n\n\nWe recommend waiting until your grass is at least 2 inches tall. Our table below shows the recommended cutting heights for Columbus cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\n| Grass type | Recommended height |
| Tall fescue | 3 – 3 ½ inches |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2 ½ inches |
| Perennial ryegrass | 2 ½ inches |
| Fine fescue | 2 ½ – 4 inches |
Once mowing season kicks off, follow these simple rules for a healthy lawn:
\n\n\n\n![\"Chickweed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chickweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nChances are you love making good use of your Columbus lawn. What’s not so great? Those annoying weeds that seem to pop up out of nowhere. They’re an eyesore and embarrassment.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll definitely want to get rid of them as soon as they shoot up, but how do you go about it? We provide a couple of ways you can control pesky, deceiving weeds that masquerade as flowers.
\n\n\n\nIf cool-season weeds have taken up residence on your property, you’ll have to invest in post-emergent herbicide. Apply this solution in March or early April and keep in mind that it only targets weeds that have already germinated. It doesn’t work as a preventative measure.
\n\n\n\nFor that, look into a pre-emergent herbicide that targets weed seedlings. Apply it around Mid-March to get ahead of early spring and summer weeds.
\n\n\n\nAlso important to note is the difference between annual and perennial weeds.
\n\n\n\nAnnual cool-season weeds won’t bother you in the warmer months and generally die before you have to take action. On the flip side, perennial weeds are stubborn and stick around for longer, so investing in pre- or post-emergent herbicides will be necessary in this case.
\n\n\n\nSome of the most common annual and perennial weed types in Columbus include:
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Fertilizer-Spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dion Hinchcliffe / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFertilization helps your grass grow evenly and efficiently and reduces the likelihood of weeds. It supplies your soil with three important nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Each nutrient serves a different purpose.
\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 |
Fertilize your Columbus lawn in early to mid spring when your grass begins to grow. This is typically around March or April, when temperatures reach and stay around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In the early stages of grass growth, when shoots are tender, it’s important to fertilize more lightly. Once grass is actively growing, you can go in with a well-balanced fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nYou also need to think about what kind of fertilizer you want to use for your yard. Controlled-release fertilizers are granular beads that release nutrients over a period of six to eight weeks. Quick-release fertilizers can be a liquid concentrate or water-soluble beads that act as soon as they’re watered.
\n\n\n\nTake a look at some advantages and disadvantages of both:
\n\n\n\n| Factors | Controlled-release | Quick-release |
| Advantages | • No toxic buildup on the soil • Helps with water movement and soil structure • Introduces beneficial soil microbes • Safer to use around children and pets | • Lower cost • Highly concentrated • Acts faster • Higher nutrient ratio |
| Disadvantages | • Lower concentrations of nutrients • Takes longer to absorb • Costs more | • Can cause more toxic buildup • Made from synthetic materials • Can pollute groundwater |
Fertilizer can be organic or synthetic and selecting the right one for your lawn is vital. Below, we’ve outlined the pros and cons:
\n\n\n\n| Factors | Organic fertilizer | Synthetic fertilizer |
| Advantages | • Doesn’t burn lawns • Slow and steady nutrient release • Contains many trace minerals and balanced nutrition for your grass • Improves soil health | • More commonly available • Formulas made for exact lawn needs • Acts quickly • Costs less |
| Disadvantages | • Less nutrient release in cooler temperatures • Costs more • Dependent on microorganisms in the soil • Can cause harmful runoff | • Shorter lifespan • Can deteriorate soil • Can burn lawn • May cause chemical runoff |
How to fertilize your lawn? It’s easier than you think. Run a spreader around the perimeter of your lawn first and then go over the rest of it, slightly overlapping each pass.
\n\n\n\nThe perks? You won’t have to worry about dirty hands and the fertilizer will be spread evenly.
\n\n\n\n![\"Fall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fall-Armyworm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: uacescomm / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLawn pests. We hate them and want them gone. But they’re stubborn and make it that much harder to achieve the perfect lawn most homeowners dream of.
\n\n\n\nIn Columbus, some of the most common springtime pests include grubs, sod webworms, billbugs, chinch bugs, and cutworms. Read on to find out how to identify them and get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nGrubs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Grubs are the larval stage of different beetle species. As the name implies, they literally grub your grass and attack it at the root level, killing it. When the root system is compromised, grass can’t absorb nutrients and water, leading to severe damage.
\n\n\n\nGrubs are visible to the eye and have a white or brown body that curls into a C shape if bothered. If you notice beetles flying around, it’s a good sign that you have a grub infestation.
\n\n\n\nPlus, you’ll likely see irregular dead spots on your lawn and an increase in animal activity on your property. Raccoons, skunks, and birds like to feed on grub worms – which, if you think about it, is a great eradication method.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: In addition to limiting moisture, you can introduce beneficial nematodes to your lawn. It can take a few years to establish a colony large enough to eradicate grubs, but you won’t have to treat your lawn with chemicals.
\n\n\n\nAnother way is to apply milky spore, a bacteria that also takes a while to develop, but which is deadly to grubs. As a last resort, you can turn to pesticides – the lower the toxicity level, the better.
\n\n\n\nSod webworms
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Sod webworms are lawn-damaging caterpillars. They’re the immature larval stage of various moth types. They appear as small, white, or tan in color, with snout-like projections on their heads. They generally cling to grass blades and can be found with their heads pointing down and their wings rolled tight.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll know you have an infestation if you notice moths flying away as you mow. Moreover, your grass will appear brown and short in certain areas.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: Water regularly and keep thatch at an optimal level, to avoid stresses on your lawn. You can also use beneficial nematodes or insecticidal soap to kill this pest. Lastly, you can apply low-toxicity pesticides.
\n\n\n\nBillbugs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Billbugs are particularly troublesome, as both the larvae and adults can damage grass. Adult billbugs chew holes in the grass blades and deposit eggs inside. When they hatch, the larvae start damaging the root system and kill the grass from the inside out.
\n\n\n\nThese insects are a type of weevil and can grow up to ½ inch in length. Their hard shells range in color from brown to near black and have a pitted texture. The larvae are white with reddish-brown heads.
\n\n\n\nDamage in this case is hard to diagnose. Grass turns brown, but can be mistaken for drought damage, fungal disease, or simply grass dormancy. Test an affected area by pulling out some grass. If billbugs are the culprit, the grass will break off at the soil line and will be accompanied by sawdust-like excrement.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: Billbug treatment calls for multiple approaches. Target adult billbugs in early spring before they lay their eggs and kill off newly-hatched larvae before they have a chance to wreak havoc on your lawn. Also, maintain your lawn height to reduce the ideal habitat for billbugs and treat your lawn with pesticides if needed.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Chinch bugs are tiny insects that are difficult to spot due to their size. These pests are red in color when they’re young, but turn black as they mature. They also have a white spot on their back in the shape of an ‘X.’ They love St. Augustinegrass and usually live in the thatch layer.
\n\n\n\nChinch bug damage can look like lawn disease, with the grass turning brown in patches, but it’s important to never rule out a possible chinch bug infestation.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: If you suspect chinch bugs are damaging your lawn, it’s recommended that you contact a professional. Homeowners can have a difficult time getting rid of them on their own. Worse, these insects are known to develop a resistance to pesticides and overcome resistance in the host plant itself.
\n\n\n\nCutworms
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Cutworms are general feeders that can damage a wide range of plants. They are smooth, with some hairs, and a length of about 2 inches when fully grown. Different species have different colors, from brown or tan to pink, green, gray, or black. Some larvae are shiny, while others are dull.
\n\n\n\nThey curl their bodies around turfgrass blades or plant stems and feed on them. They’re most active in the evening or at night and hide in debris during the day. Adult moths don’t do damage.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: If you discover damage or larvae, you can opt for non-toxic removal methods, such as plucking and crushing the insects or dropping them in soapy water. Furthermore, you can try a wash of bleach-free dish soap or apply organic pesticides.
\n\n\n\nBy keeping up with your lawn care maintenance, you’ll have an easier time squashing any pest problem early. Otherwise, you’ll come up against a damaged lawn and pesky insects that can make spending time outdoors a nightmare.
\n\n\n\nIf you have to use pesticides, stay away from catch-all types that also kill beneficial insects. Instead, go for selective pesticides that act in a targeted way.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Brown_Patch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLawn diseases can destroy your yard and cause incredible damage to your grass. If your turf is looking patchy, discolored, or just ‘off,’ lawn disease may be the culprit.
\n\n\n\nResidents of Columbus regularly deal with abnormally cool periods, intense heat, humidity, overcast skies, and drought, all factors that contribute to fungal growth. A susceptible lawn will easily succumb to disease pathogens, so it’s important to know what you’re dealing with.
\n\n\n\nWatch out for the following five types affecting Columbus cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nBrown Patch (Rhizoctonia solani)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat brown patch:
\n\n\n\nDollar Spot (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat dollar spot:
\n\n\n\nGray Leaf Spot (Magnaporthe oryzae)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat gray leaf spot:
\n\n\n\nPowdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat powdery mildew:
\n\n\n\nFairy Ring (Soil borne Basidiomycete fungi)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat fairy ring:
\n\n\n\nTypically, the fertilizer and soil should be moist, but don’t water so much that puddles begin to form on your grass. About 20 minutes should be enough to avoid washing away the nutrients and carrying away the fertilizer itself. It can contaminate groundwater and nearby streams or ponds.
What are some of the biggest lawn care mistakes to watch out for?
If you’re a homeowner, you’re likely eager to care for your lawn yourself. But there are some things you should know before you start.
• Avoid leaving clippings on your lawn after mowing, as this may kill your grass.
• The best time for aeration and seeding is during the growing season of your particular grass type. Find out when that is and you’ll be good to go.
• Don’t cut your grass with dull lawn mower blades, as they can rip and shred your grass and decrease moisture.
• Don’t over or under water your turf – the former will carry away nutrients and increase the risk of disease, while the latter will dry out your grass.
• Don’t forget to fertilize. Without fertilizer, your grass won’t grow as healthy or green.
If your grass is turning brown and dying despite your best efforts, it may be a result of disease or pests setting up camp. It also may be affected by drought and improper fertilization. Identifying the exact cause will help you find a solution fit for the problem.
Columbus cool-season grasses produce beautiful lawns that can survive the region’s fluctuations in temperature. With some targeted springtime lawn care, you’ll be worry-free for the rest of the year and have a lush, healthy carpet of grass at your disposal.
Still, if lawn care is more of a chore than a hobby, hire a Columbus lawn care pro to take your yard to the next level and free up time for other activities.
Main Photo Credit: Topiary Garden / Slowking4 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n","title":"8 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Columbus, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/1789c/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg","srcSet":"/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/107df/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 320w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/293e9/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 500w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/f2cbb/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 800w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/1789c/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 960w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/c26c2/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/1dd6e/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/67b76/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 320w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/8df11/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 500w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/98a65/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 800w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/1dd6e/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 960w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/3cc96/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Columbus, OH","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Consider our 8 spring lawn care tips for maintaining a green and thriving lawn in Columbus year-round."}}},{"node":{"id":"c4a93188-9617-5631-a91d-50a6a9fc8386","slug":"best-native-plants-jacksonville","path":"/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/best-native-plants-jacksonville/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"075cc120-3dd3-51e4-aead-643f50a8453e","name":"Jacksonville","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"August 6th, 2019","excerpt":"The subtropical climate of Jacksonville surely calls for a beautiful tropical garden. But wait — don’t purchase imported landscape plants just yet. North Florida has many gorgeous native plants, some only found in this state. You may even find native alternatives to plants you’re considering, such as hibiscus and azaleas. Why native plants? Not only […]
\n","content":"\nThe subtropical climate of Jacksonville surely calls for a beautiful tropical garden. But wait — don’t purchase imported landscape plants just yet. North Florida has many gorgeous native plants, some only found in this state. You may even find native alternatives to plants you’re considering, such as hibiscus and azaleas.
\n\n\n\nWhy native plants? Not only will they be easier to care for, but the local wildlife will thank you for it. These plants are much more likely to survive Jacksonville weather, pests, and diseases. If you’re ready to make your garden part of the local ecosystem, consider the following 14 native plants.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Bean.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Everglades National Park / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nYou get a two-for-one deal with coral beans: beautiful flowers and seed pods. The plant grows red tubular flowers in spring, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. By fall, they’ll turn into pea pods with bright red seeds. They may look appetizing, but put away your fork and knife — they’re toxic if ingested.
\n\n\n\nCoral beans are visually appealing in spring and fall but don’t look exciting when not flowering or producing seeds. They’ll play an excellent supporting role in your garden landscape, so pair them with various plants for visual interest year-round.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial in Northern Florida
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or light shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Fertile, sandy, and well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The seeds are poisonous – keep away from pets and children
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pink-Pinxter-Azalea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: EoRdE6 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThough many azaleas come from Asia or are hybrids, some are native to Florida. Pink pinxter azalea is native to the Jacksonville area, though other Florida varieties may also thrive here. This plant’s fragrant white to dark pink flowers are stunning in spring and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nPink pinxter azaleas have decent pest and disease resistance, but watch out for mites, iron deficiency, and mushroom rot. They do best when shielded from harsh winds. This plant is relatively slow-growing and needs little pruning. If you decide to prune, wait until after flowering. Do not allow people or animals to ingest this plant, as it could be deadly.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6b-10a
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic if ingested; could be fatal
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Beautyberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, the American beautyberry’s fruit is the star of the show. Birds love eating them and have thus spread the seeds all over Florida. Humans can eat these berries in small amounts or make them into jellies and wines. The purple fruit appears around September, but you can enjoy its lavender-pink flowers in spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nThis drought-tolerant plant works well for borders. If you decide to prune it, do so before it flowers for the best results.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers rich soils but can also grow in poor, sandy soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic for humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLove wildflowers? The yellow, orange, and red colors of the Black-eyed Susan are a bright and cheery choice for gardeners in the Sunshine State. They flower in summer and fall. Use it for your butterfly garden, or pick some for a beautiful bouquet.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is easy to grow and tough. It can handle drought and salt, making it ideal for coastal homes in Jacksonville. While they’re great for creating borders or carpets of flowers, they could become a weed since their seeds spread and germinate readily.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Can grow in most soil types
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Not poisonous to humans, but can be a skin irritant or cause allergic reactions if consumed; could be poisonous to grazing animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Beach-Sunflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe beach sunflower blooms practically year-round. Like other sunflowers, the flower head will turn to face the sun as it moves through the sky. Butterflies like its flowers, and birds like its fruit. Though there are several varieties throughout Florida, you should use the local variety, cucumber dune sunflower, to avoid hybridization with the native plant population.
\n\n\n\nBeach sunflowers are well-suited to hot, dry, salty coastal climates. Don’t overwater this drought-resistant plant, or it may fall victim to sunflower rust. Though beach sunflowers may not survive a freeze, they will reseed and quickly spread again, making an excellent ground cover. Fertilize once or twice a year at most.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8b-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial, but will be annual if there are freezing temperatures
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy or well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: normanack / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe oakleaf hydrangea is aptly named for its leaf shape. The broad, dark leaves grow up to 12 inches long, with the biggest growing in the shade. The leaves may turn red, bronze, or purple in the fall and may stay on the plant into the winter. Cone-shaped flower clusters bloom in the summer months, then turn light pink or purple. In winter, the unusual peeling bark adds visual interest even when the plant is bare.
\n\n\n\nBecause they prefer shade, oakleaf hydrangeas are perfect for yards with tree cover. They need little water or maintenance, but you should water them during dry spells and prune them periodically to your liking. Leave room for it to grow and send up new shoots, or get a dwarf or compact cultivar. Oakleaf hydrangeas aren’t kid or pet friendly since eating any part is toxic.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9a
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-10 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full shade, but partial is tolerable
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Does best in fertile, well-drained soil but can survive in other conditions
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All parts are toxic when ingested; keep away from children and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coontie.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Leonora (Ellie) Enking / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe coontie may look like a fern or palm tree, but it’s a cycad. Its glossy, feathery leaves are food for Atala butterfly larvae, a species once thought to be extinct in Florida. While the native people in this region historically created cooking flour from its stems, they are toxic unless properly prepared.
\n\n\n\nCoontie has a high drought tolerance and does well in the cold. Its mild salt tolerance helps it survive in coastal areas like Jacksonville. It does best in well-drained soil but will survive in full sun, partial shade, or full shade. Use coontie as a specimen plant or fill large areas with it for a wild look.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Cycad (shrub-sized)
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 10a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall, 3-5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, and full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The stem is toxic to ingest unless properly prepared
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chickasaw-Plum.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Lm13700 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you plant a chickasaw plum tree, its tiny white flowers will entice you with their smell. They look particularly striking since they bloom before the leaves have returned after winter. Soon the flowers will turn into red fruits that turn yellow as they ripen. You can eat them yourself or watch wild animals enjoy the feast.
\n\n\n\nChickasaw plum trees grow quickly and resist most pests and diseases. Though they’re drought tolerant, they may need a drink during dry spells. One feature you may or may not like is the abundance of tree suckers, which are vertical stems growing near the base. They aren’t harmful to the tree and can benefit wildlife, but some people find them unappealing and messy. Prune them if you’d like.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Typically 6-12 feet, but can be up to 25 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun but can tolerate dappled shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates a wide variety of soil types but prefers acidic soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low poison severity from cyanide in leaves, stems, and seeds when ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Southern-Live-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nWant a break from the harsh sun? Once established, a large southern live oak will provide plenty of shade in your yard. When fully grown, they can have a height of up to 60 feet and a spread of 100 feet. They can live for hundreds of years. You may see Spanish moss growing on it, but not to worry — it won’t hurt the tree.
\n\n\n\nLive oaks are best for large yards, so they have ample space to grow. Plan other landscaping accordingly; you don’t want your tree stealing all the sunlight from plants that need it. Pair with shade-tolerant plants to make sure all your green friends are happy. To improve wind resistance, prune your live oak regularly when young.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 60 feet tall with a spread of 100 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen or evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity to humans if young leaves or raw acorns are ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sabal-Palm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nFlorida and palm trees go together like shrimp and grits. Want a local variety? Sabal palms earned the title of state tree in 1953. They’re also called cabbage palms or palmettos because the immature leaves taste like cabbage. The bud, or heart of palm, is also edible. Sabal palms produce tiny white flowers that pollinators love, then small black fruits that make a good snack for wild animals.
\n\n\n\nDespite the many edible parts of this plant, it’s not the best idea to handle the tree too much since the leaves may cause skin irritation. Sabal palms can handle salt spray but aren’t as tolerant of salt near their roots. Watch out for the fatal Lethal Bronzing Disease (LBD). While it’s incurable, preventative treatments could save your tree if others nearby are infected.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Palm
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-11b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-50 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy soil or well-drained loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Skin irritant
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tickseed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alabama Extension / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nThe name may not sound pretty, but don’t judge a book by its cover (or title, in this case). These daisy-like flowers cover fields, gardens, and roadsides throughout Florida in spring, summer, and sometimes fall. Coreopsis, or tickseed, is Florida’s state wildflower and a type of aster. Though most have yellow petals, some varieties come in other colors, such as the purple Georgia tickseed.
\n\n\n\nThere are several varieties of tickseeds in Florida. Coastal plain tickseed, Leavenworth’s tickseed, Texas tickseed, and Georgia tickseed are all found naturally in Duval County. Tickseed is typically drought tolerant, but it depends on the species. While short-lived, they can stick around for years since they reseed themselves. Taller flowers may need support to stay upright.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual to short-lived perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained soils that aren’t overly rich; tolerates acidic, slightly alkaline, sandy, loam, and clay soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate to low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hibiscus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Quartl / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhile some hibiscus varieties originate in Asia, several are right at home in the Florida landscape. The varieties found naturally in Duval County are comfort root, scarlet rosemallow, swamp rosemallow, and crimson-eyed rosemallow. Though their colorful flowers are short-lived, hibiscus plants produce many flowers throughout the flowering season. Hummingbirds and butterflies will flock to them for nectar.
\n\n\n\nHibiscuses come in shrub and tree forms suitable for hedges. These plants may be a good fit if your yard is too wet for other perennials since they prefer moist soil. Hibiscus are sensitive to the cold weather in North Florida, so they may lose their leaves and die away above ground. However, they can still return from the roots through shoots in spring. Watch out for aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub or tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 20 feet, depending on the variety; annual freezes will make the plant generally shorter
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennials
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Any soil that is not too dry; tolerates extended flooding and sandy, loamy, clay, and acidic soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThey may not live under the sea like real coral, but their clusters of long flowers are just as pretty. Coral honeysuckle is also called trumpet honeysuckle because of the flower’s shape. Most coral honeysuckle flowers are red, but some cultivars have pink or yellow flowers. Butterflies and hummingbirds will enjoy the flowers, and songbirds will enjoy the fruit that follows.
\n\n\n\nThis vine is suitable for trellises, fences, hanging baskets, or erosion-preventing ground cover. Coral honeysuckle is low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and pest-resistant but won’t flower as nicely in the shade and may die back in freezing weather. Its fast growth can be aggressive, so carefully direct growth where you want. This local species is an excellent substitute for the invasive Japanese honeysuckle.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 15 feet, but it depends on the supporting structure
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Does best in slightly acidic soils but tolerates most soil types; doesn’t do well in dry sands
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: May upset stomach if consumed
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Carolina-Jessamine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Evans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWant a taste of spring flowers before your other plants bloom? Carolina jessamine flowers in late winter and early spring. The flowers are yellow, fragrant, and trumpet-shaped (thus the nickname “evening trumpet flower”). The “Pride of Augusta” cultivar has double flowers and a longer blooming season. Look but don’t touch — the sap contains a skin irritant, and the whole plant is toxic, sometimes even to honeybees.
\n\n\n\nCarolina jessamine looks great on trellises, fences, and pergolas. It also works as a groundcover in sloped yards. The vine grows quickly but is containable. Carolina jessamine has few disease and insect problems and tolerates frost and drought. It may drop leaves if too dry, but it will bounce back quickly. Don’t overfertilize, as it reduces flowering.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, rich, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The whole plant contains poisonous toxins, including nectar that may be toxic to honeybees. It also has skin-irritating sap.
\n\n\n\nJacksonville falls in the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 9A, with this zone determined by the average minimum winter temperature. While non-native plants may still thrive in these conditions, native plants do even better. Native plants have adapted to everything in the area, from weather to soil salinity.
\n\n\n\nThat said, each yard is slightly different. Get a soil test from your local cooperative extension or soil testing lab to learn about its texture (sand, silt, clay, or loam) and pH, nutrient, and salinity levels. You’ll also need to consider your current landscape. Are there shady trees? A nearby body of water? Ask your neighbors what plants have done well in their yards to understand what to expect.
\n\n\n\nYou could choose plants specifically to attract wildlife, practical plants to provide shade on your patio, or the lowest-maintenance plants possible. Once you know what you want out of your yard, you can narrow down your choices.
\n\n\n\nThe bad news for North Florida residents is that many plants that bloom year-round in Central and South Florida won’t bloom in Jacksonville. You could get lantana, a native of South Florida, for your yard. However, be sure not to choose a non-native version as this species is invasive in the area and toxic to livestock. If you need your floral fix in winter, consider houseplants instead.
The best native plants to adorn your fence are coral honeysuckle and Carolina jessamine. If you’d prefer a non-climbing plant to hide your fence with, hydrangea and hibiscus will add the desired visual interest.
North Florida tends to have very sandy soils. This soil texture is good for plants that need good drainage but won’t work well for plants that prefer clay. The native plants on this list either prefer or tolerate the sandy soils typical in Jacksonville.
Sometimes, the best way to decide which plants to buy is to see them in person. The employees at your local native plant nursery can help guide you through the plant selection process. Here are some local garden centers that carry native plants:
\n\n\n\nWant to buy online? You can purchase plant seeds from the Florida Wildflowers Growers Cooperative.
\n\n\n\nWhile you’re at it, consider planting a new lawn or implementing low-maintenance landscaping. If you’re worried about storms tearing apart all your hard work, focus on hurricane-resistant landscaping to keep your garden and house safe.
You may find your new gardening journey overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to contact local landscaping pros in Jacksonville to handle anything you’re uncomfortable with or don’t have time for.
Main Image Credit: Canna lirio / PublicDomainPictures
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