![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Choosing the best grass seed for your Iowa lawn can be tricky. On some maps, the state lies just above the northern edge of what is considered the “transition zone” for growing grass, and some maps have the very southern border of Iowa within the transition zone boundary. This can leave homeowners scratching their heads. […]
\n","content":"\nChoosing the best grass seed for your Iowa lawn can be tricky. On some maps, the state lies just above the northern edge of what is considered the “transition zone” for growing grass, and some maps have the very southern border of Iowa within the transition zone boundary.
\n\n\n\nThis can leave homeowners scratching their heads. Is it best to declare yourself a solid Midwesterner and grow cool-season grasses like the North, or should you approach your lawn like homes further south that are classified in the transition zone?
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nBefore jumping headfirst into different grass types, it’s imperative to touch on the transition zone concept, so you understand why you may be facing some challenges when growing grass.
\n\n\n\nThe continental United States is divided into different turf-growing regions based on annual average temperatures and relative humidity levels. It’s similar to USDA growing zones for your ornamental plants but also slightly different. These five regional classifications, though, help homeowners and landscapers decide what type of grass is best.
\n\n\n\nThe area in the central part of the country where 4 of the five regions overlap is known as the transition zone. This 200-mile section runs from the Atlantic Coast to eastern New Mexico and encompasses a range of climates that see weather patterns of the North and South, where temperate and subtropical meet.
\n\n\n\nGrowing grass in the transition zone can be difficult. There isn’t an ideal turfgrass adapted to the climate. Your winter weather may be too cold to maintain warm-season grasses, but warmer summers make it hard to grow cool-season turfgrasses. Unlike Goldilocks’ famed porridge, the temperate is never “just right” for one primary grass type.
\n\n\n\nChoosing whether to go with cool-season or warm-season grass is ultimately a personal decision. It’s helpful to contact your local county extension office for suggestions and talk to your friends and neighbors to see what they grow.
\n\n\n\nNow that you understand the transition zone better, let’s talk cool-season and warm-season grasses. Similar to how plants are classified as annuals or perennials, turf is known as cool-season or warm-season depending on how it grows and what climate it prefers.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses grow across much of the northern part of the country. They are adapted to colder temperatures and can survive being buried under snow during the winter.
\n\n\n\nThey’ll start greening up when temperatures climb into the low 40s and grow like crazy in the spring when soil and air temps are 65 to 75°F. They aren’t suited for the heat, though, and growth will slow down in the summer; they also need more water in July in August to stay green. When the temperatures dip again in the fall, they’ll grow vigorously until October or November, when they go dormant.
\n\n\n\nCommon cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, warm-season grasses are better adapted to the summer heat experienced across southern climates. They thrive when temperatures soar (when they grow the most) and don’t need supplemental irrigation, but their growth falls off once the thermometer drops. They’ll go dormant much earlier in the fall than cool-season types.
\n\n\n\nCommon warm-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMidwesterners love their Kentucky bluegrass (KBG), and it comes in as our number-one pick for homeowners in Iowa. KBG creates a dense, dark green turf blanket with exceptional winter hardiness.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a cool-season grass that will grow in the sun to partial shade and handles foot traffic well since it spreads via rhizomes. This growth habit does make it slower to germinate and establish, but it’s a fantastic choice for yards with kids and pets.
\n\n\n\nThe shorter root system on KGB makes it less heat tolerant than other turfs, especially warm-season grasses, so you must water it more to keep it green during Iowa summers. That being said, it also needs more frequent mowing and fertilization.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you need to grow grass quickly, look no further than perennial ryegrass. It’s a cool-season bunchgrass known for its rapid germination (you’ll see sprouts in under a week) that helps this beautiful medium to dark green grass establish rapidly.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass has excellent foot traffic tolerance, making it a number one pick if you have kids or pets running around the yard often. The soft-to-the-touch blades also feel wonderful on bare feet! It will handle the abuse well, but be forewarned, that since it’s a bunchgrass, it can’t self-repair once it thins or becomes damaged. It is also pretty temperamental regarding the cold and may thin out when temps drop below 30°F for long periods.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a cool-season bunchgrass that grows in upright clumps and sends off vertical shoots at the bottom of each bunch. Since it propagates by these tillers, it continuously creates identical clumps of medium to dark green grass. Over time, these clumps grow in size (and spread) to fill in bare spots across the lawn, albeit slowly. Many people choose to reseed to help repair thin areas more quickly..
\n\n\n\nThis grass does well in full sun and will handle partial shade as well, especially if it’s light to moderate afternoon shade. It sends down roots two to three feet into the ground, making it resilient about drought. If you want a low-maintenance lawn that doesn’t need irrigating, tall fescue is a great choice! Especially if your soil is slightly more acidic.
\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\nComing in as the first warm-season turf species on our list, bermudagrass is a non-native plant commonly used in warmer climates to create beautiful lawns, athletic fields, and fairways. It holds up well to heavy foot traffic and quickly recovers.
\n\n\n\nWhen mowed once or twice a week, irrigated regularly, and fertilized a handful of times during the year, you can grow a stunning bermudagrass lawn. Many homeowners opt to cultivate an improved common variety instead of a hybrid species, as the improved common types require a little less routine maintenance. The common variety does provide a slightly lower quality lawn, compared to the hybrids that are finer textured.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-4.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach at the English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a good warm-season grass for the transition zone because of its cold tolerance. Of all the grasses for warm climates, it can handle the lowest temperatures with the fewest adverse effects. It also handles some shade and a fair amount of foot traffic. Zoysia japonica is one of two widely grown Zoysia species in the United States.
\n\n\n\nThe coarse-textured, light green grass is slow to germinate and establish, so it is often started by plugs or laying sod instead of seeding. But it does love the summer heat and will grow vigorously when temperatures are hot to produce a dense, attractive lawn.
\n\n\n\nOne of the most significant drawbacks to growing Zoysia is its need to be dethatched or power-raked every year or two. It develops thatch quickly, and when left on the soil surface, this layer of debris can increase disease and insect problems and may prevent water, nutrients, and air from moving down into the root zone.
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nComing in as our honorable mention, buffalograss is a warm-season grass species that is often used as a turfgrass. This native US species has been historically used for pastures and grazing, but its low-maintenance needs make it popular with homeowners looking for an easy-to-care-for lawn. While a warm-season turf, it has good drought tolerance and better cold resistance than some others.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a sustainable lawn option with a traditional turf aesthetic. The finely textured perennial grass is one of the few native prairie grasses that forms a soft, dense sod that creates a suitable lawn with minimal mowing.
\n\n\n\nGrowth will slow a bit if you’re trying to grow it in a shady location, and it will start entering dormancy as soon as the first autumn frost hits.
\n\n\n\nThere’s no doubt you have plenty of options to choose from in terms of grasses for your Iowa lawn. The most important part when picking a turfgrass is to find something that thrives in your yard. With this in mind, make sure to consider the three main things.
\n\n\n\nHow much sun does your yard get?
\n\n\n\nFirst and foremost, this should be the most critical consideration. You have to match your turf to your yard’s sun exposure.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a yard that gets plenty of sunlight all day and isn’t shaded by your neighbor’s house or large trees, opt for Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, bermudagrass, or buffalograss that love full sun.
\n\n\n\nIf your yard is shaded by a privacy fence or a large apartment building next door, you’ll want to go with tall fescue since it is happy to grow in the shade.
\n\n\n\nStick with zoysia or tall fescue if your yard mixes sun and shade.
\n\n\n\nIs your yard a raceway, or is there minimal foot traffic?
\n\n\n\nMatching the activity in your yard to how it handles foot traffic is also essential. If you always have dogs or kids running through the grass, you’ll want cool-season perennial ryegrass, tall fescue (or a blend with either), warm-season bermudagrass, and zoysia.
\n\n\n\nIf foot traffic isn’t a concern, you should stick with Kentucky bluegrass or buffalograss, which doesn’t stand up well to frequent activity.
\n\n\n\nWhat are your availability and desire?
\n\n\n\nLet’s also be honest about how much time and energy you will put into keeping your lawn looking good. For people that like mowing, weeding, and fertilizing, you’ll be rewarded with a phenomenal yard if you choose Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, Bermuda, or zoysiagrass. However, if you’d rather do anything besides mowing, you will be best off planting lower-maintenance buffalograss or tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners across the Midwest (and other parts of the country) often grow lawns containing a blend of different turf types. The genetic diversity of two or three grass types is fantastic if your yard is a mix of shade and sun because you’ll benefit from the different species. You’ll often see better disease, insect, and drought resistance.
\n\n\n\nThe problem, though, is that you are severely limited when buying warm-season grass blends. It’s not uncommon to find a mix of Bermudagrass cultivars but not a blend containing Bermudagrass, Centipedegrass, and St. Augustine grass.
\n\n\n\nSince there’s such a marked difference in the traits—color, shade tolerance, watering needs—of the different warm-season grasses, they typically aren’t blended.
\n\n\n\nWhatever you do, don’t try to get fancy and blend warm-season and cool-season grass types. You’ll likely end up with a lawn that has patches of different textures and colors.
\n\n\n\nThe goal of seeding a new lawn or overseeing your established yard is to throw seed down just before the grass usually kicks growth into high gear for the season.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: Cool-season grasses are best seeded between August 15 and October 1. They’ll have about six weeks to grow before the first fall frost. Warm-season grasses are best planted between April 15 and June 10. They’ll germinate and have a few weeks of solid growth before it gets hot.
\n\n\n\nThese timelines aren’t set in stone. They’re just the recommended dates for best germination and optimal establishment.
\n\n\n\nWhen you plant depends on your regional climate and the turfgrass type you’re growing. It’s best to plant cool-season grasses in the fall in northern regions. You want to wait for hot summer temperatures to subside, but give the grass time to establish before the first fall frost. In the south, the best time to plant warm-season turfgrasses is in late spring or early summer, just as the temperatures begin warming up. In the transition zone, you sow based on the type of grass you’re growing.
Warm-season turfgrasses need hot summer temperatures and mild winters without snow; they grow mainly in the southern United States. Cool-season grasses need more temperate summer conditions but can survive harsh winters; they grow primarily in the northern United States. Both types will grow in the transition zone, but the mixed climate presents some challenges.
Ideally, you want to get cool-season grass seed down at least six weeks before your area’s first anticipated hard freeze. Your grass then has about a month to establish roots and prepare itself before it goes dormant. It’s similar for warm-season grass types, but they’ll do better planted earlier in the fall.
Remember that warm-season grasses stop growing once temperatures are below 55°F, and cool-season grasses won’t grow if temperatures are below 40 or 42°F. If you don’t hit that cutoff, you’ll have lackluster growth, and your grass might not be robust enough to survive the winter.
Being stuck in the middle is never fun, which certainly applies to homeowners bordering the transition zone’s edge. It can be tricky enough to establish a new lawn or reseed one that’s struggling without the woes of whether to plant warm-season or cool-season grasses. Hopefully, this guide helps you make a decision that you feel confident about, and you’ll have a gorgeous new yard in no time.
\n\n\n\nBut don’t fret if you’re still unsure! The WikiLawn experts want you to have a yard that makes your neighbors green with envy. If you need help choosing grass seed or finding highly-rated landscape professionals, we’re here to help!
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Bayliss Park in downtown Council Bluffs, Iowa / Smallbones / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Seeds for Your Iowa Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/1789c/Bayliss-Park.jpg","srcSet":"/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/107df/Bayliss-Park.jpg 320w,\n/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/293e9/Bayliss-Park.jpg 500w,\n/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/f2cbb/Bayliss-Park.jpg 800w,\n/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/1789c/Bayliss-Park.jpg 960w,\n/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/c26c2/Bayliss-Park.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/1dd6e/Bayliss-Park.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/67b76/Bayliss-Park.webp 320w,\n/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/8df11/Bayliss-Park.webp 500w,\n/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/98a65/Bayliss-Park.webp 800w,\n/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/1dd6e/Bayliss-Park.webp 960w,\n/static/051b7a90fea7cd4d6afdd865efe24e23/3cc96/Bayliss-Park.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 6 Best Grass Seeds for Iowa","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Grass is so much easier to grow and maintain if you start with a variety that is hardy and well-adapted to Iowa's varying weather conditions. Here are six."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"ae49c824-12ea-5ef6-a626-ea96f0e87e12","slug":"lawn-care-the-definitive-guide-to-bermuda-grass","path":"/lawn-care/lawn-care-the-definitive-guide-to-bermuda-grass/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"April 28th, 2019","excerpt":"An Overview Bermudagrass (Cynodon sactylon) is native to tropical and subtropical countries worldwide. Spanish explorers brought Bermuda grass to the Americas in the 1500’s from the coast of Africa. Exactly when it arrived in mainland America is unclear, but documents from 1807 show that it was already being established as one of the primary grasses […]
\n","content":"\nBermudagrass (Cynodon sactylon) is native to tropical and subtropical countries worldwide. Spanish explorers brought Bermuda grass to the Americas in the 1500’s from the coast of Africa. Exactly when it arrived in mainland America is unclear, but documents from 1807 show that it was already being established as one of the primary grasses in southern states around that time. For that reason, today, Bermuda grass is known as ‘The South’s Grass’.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a perennial warm-season grass. This means that it comes back every year and grows most actively from late spring through hot, humid summer months. Bermudagrass is more sensitive to cold temperatures than warm-season Zoysia grass or cool-season grasses, such as turf-type tall fescue. This lack of cold tolerance prevents its widespread use in the north. Its spread ranges from the Atlantic coast, across the southern states, and into California. Bermuda grass flourishes in sites with full, direct sun and good drainage. It has superior heat, salt, humidity and drought tolerances. Although the majority of Bermuda’s roots stay within 6 inches of the surface, they can reach 6 feet or more in depth.(1) This extensive root system provides more resilience against environmental stresses than other warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a fine-textured turfgrass that spreads by both above-ground stems known as stolons and below-ground stems called rhizomes. It is an extremely drought-hardy, durable, and versatile turfgrass that can be used in many settings. It is relatively quick to establish by seed or sprigs and is most notably known for its superior traffic tolerance and quick ability to heal after damage is done to lawn areas. These facts, combined with its tolerance to low mowing heights, make it the ideal turf for golf courses and athletic fields as well as any other areas that may experience heavy traffic.
\n\n\n\nIn the warmer tropical and subtropical south, during years of average rainfall, Bermuda will retain a beautiful bright green color all year round. Lawns planted in Bermudagrass can attain full lawn coverage in just one year. In fact it is not uncommon for seeded or plugged Bermuda grass lawns to be established within 60-90 days. (Good to note that when a frost occurs, bermuda grass will turn brown and go dormant until temperatures rise again in the Spring and growth resumes.
\n\n\n\nOne of the best characteristics of Bermuda grass is that it can be planted in many forms – from grass seed, sod or grass plugs. The application of Bermudagrass is also numerous, it can be planted for beautiful, durable grass lawns, nutritious and traffic tolerant pastures, sports turf, golf courses, athletic fields, and more.
Common bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.) varieties often have coarse leaf texture and light green color. However, improvements in common bermudagrass appearance have been achieved through selective breeding efforts, and there are many improved varieties available on the market that have finer leaf texture, a darker color, and an improved blade density. These varieties are most often planted by seed, but some improved varieties are also available as sod (Princess, for example).
Hybrid forms of common Bermudagrass include narrower leaf blade and finer overall texture. ‘Tifdwarf’ is the finest-textured, ‘Tifgreen 328’ is slightly larger, and ‘Tifway 419’ is the largest and is the best of the hybrids for residential use.
As is often true in the horticultural world, a plant’s strongest assets can also be its worst characteristics. Bermudagrass has the fastest growth rate of any of the warm-season grasses. While its aggressive growth rate can make Bermudagrass difficult to contain, it enables the grass to endure heavy use. It recuperates from damage far more quickly than most grasses, and, as a result, is the preferred grass for athletic fields and golf course tee areas and fairways throughout southern regions.
\n\n\n\nThese traits can make bermudagrass one of the worst weeds of all if it encroaches into places where it is not wanted. Roundup will kill stray patches of grass, but recent reports have indicated that the chemical is far more toxic than advertised and should no longer be used. Physical removal of the grass is best. In planting beds it can be controlled by covering the area with ½” compost followed by 5 layers of newspaper or one later of clean cardboard and then shredded mulch. Repeated vinegar and orange oil sprays will also kill it.
\n\n\n\nFor large areas of lawn where you wish to remove established bermudagrass a process known as ‘solarization’ can be used. To solarize your lawn begin by cutting your grass as short as possible. Then thoroughly water the lawn before spreading sheets of UV-inhibitor type plastic over the area you wish to kill. Leave the plastic covering the grass for a minimum of 1 month if you are in a hot climate and up to 3 months if you are in a more temperate zone. This process creates an intensified greenhouse effect that heats the grass up beyond its normal ideal conditions. Over time, a combination of vinegar and orange oil, solarization and later an application of organic compost will rid your areas of unwanted bermudagrass (3).
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Q1M9GL4DivQtsk7_6SXaF5ZOFXkhYwR9wwQjH_VDRcX3NeLfXMR0BLSZq5gc8ITE36KpJbPPbaOpUB4AN6W1ndrNPcbXZep3f0I7AOKOJO1OdTPaV7ohAGV3MfldTD1lrRegQymCnnNSLct2lg\")
Because of its aggressive growth rate, Bermudagrass requires more maintenance than other lawn grass types. A monthly fertilization plan might be needed during peak growth in the late spring. Similarly, it might be necessary to mow twice a week during this period to keep Bermuda at its recommended height of 1” to 1-1/2 inches for residential lawns. Though the grass is drought tolerant, Bermuda will go brown and dormant during periods of extended drought. Give it 1” to 1-1/2 inches of water from rainfall or supplemental irrigation to avoid summer dormancy. (2) Be sure to check with your local municipalities for water restrictions during the summer drought months.
\n\n\n\nWith warm-season grasses, month-by-month lawn care occurs on a different timetable than cool-season northern grasses that peak during fall. Bermuda is best planted in spring, after the final frost, as warm-season grasses come out of dormancy and enter prime growth. Overseeding existing Bermudagrass lawns with additional Bermudagrass seed can also be done at this time.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/EFidnD93mDxdqvl0zjTeMtzUR_iN-GLcWwWhe_9q8Ny8WiPnwnJ-fKdLOMyGR8F1G78RIySG4Hv0zoeA5-n7bY8gfVnfgMpwUNKJlEB-fxXubrm0BEiHXT0khXjtbHpCB2udK562KDFtwL8frQ\")
Bermuda grass grows best when soil pH is between 5.8 and 7.0, but it will tolerate more alkaline conditions.(2) In areas with overly acidic soil, regular applications of lime may be needed to keep pH at optimal levels for phosphorus nutrient availability. A good alternative grass for such areas would be Centipede grass if making amendments is not desirable. Having a soil test performed will reveal if your Bermudagrass lawn needs lime or other soil amendments to thrive.
\n\n\n\nIf you live in the southern United States and your lawn needs call for a durable and wear-resistant warm-season lawn that can withstand both heat and drought, Bermudagrass may be the perfect solution providing you seasons of bright green turf grass.
Sources:
1. Duble, R.L., “Bermudagrass – The Sports Turf of the South,” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
2. Patton, A. and Boyd, J., “Choosing a Grass for Arkansas Lawns,” University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension.
\n\n\n\n3. https://www.dirtdoctor.com/garden/Bermudagrass-Common_vq3441.htm
\n\n\n\nStill have questions about lawn care? Check out our lawn care page for more information.
\n\n\n\nTop Photo: Flickr // Richard Parker
\n","title":"Lawn Care: The Definitive Guide to Bermuda Grass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3368146214099217,"src":"/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/1789c/bermuda-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/107df/bermuda-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/293e9/bermuda-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/f2cbb/bermuda-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/1789c/bermuda-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/a2a79/bermuda-grass.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/1dd6e/bermuda-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/67b76/bermuda-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/8df11/bermuda-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/98a65/bermuda-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/1dd6e/bermuda-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/667ef88015083457b86ffebe5d3753d7/7aa54/bermuda-grass.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Care: The Definitive Guide to Bermuda Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"b95df9a9-d723-50d6-b006-773f1d05af6d","slug":"lawn-mowing-and-maintenance-in-austin","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/lawn-mowing-and-maintenance-in-austin/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"Austin has it all: live music, festivals, art, and culture. There’s so much to do, the last thing you want is to get hung up on something as basic as keeping your yard green and lush. While you may think you know all about yard work, you may be in for some surprises when it […]
\n","content":"\nAustin has it all: live music, festivals, art, and culture. There’s so much to do, the last thing you want is to get hung up on something as basic as keeping your yard green and lush. While you may think you know all about yard work, you may be in for some surprises when it comes to taking care of your landscape properly. Here’s a quick primer on all things lawn mowing and maintenance in Austin.
\n\n\n\nHow high or low you mow has more to do with the type of grass than personal preference. If you’re mowing at irregular intervals to an arbitrary length, chances are your lawn isn’t looking or feeling its best. Most Austin area lawns are Bermuda grass or St Augustine. If you aren’t sure, do a little research so that you can get your mowing height just right and keep it that way.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustine grass performs best when kept shorn to around 2.5 inches or so. Bermuda grass, on the other hand, will be at its best when kept to 1.5 to 2 inches long. Once you know what type of grass you’re dealing with, you can set your mower blade height and forget about it. But first, you need to get that grass down to the right length. If you’ve let it get shaggy and unkempt, you need to slow down and mow it in stages over a few weeks rather than all at once.
\n\n\n\nRegardless of grass type, it’s important that you never cut more than ⅓ of the blade length in one go. Excessive cutting will injure your grass and leave it susceptible to pests, diseases, and ugly brown spots. Mow it frequently over a few weeks by ⅓ at a time until you get it to where you want it. Then, set your blades at the optimal length and mow as often as needed to take only ⅓ off at a time. Always mow when your grass is dry to avoid clumping of clippings and dulling of your mower blade.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UVzFg127OSkCqtk4WyO9RnhxfdN9MhGX2nMNql3cc6jehiqkKNarU3cKyukr977iwMjMy5ad3OWNcI9wJVx_4BZtUZ09difUS8WX4DXIoIpmWWwJWG0nzx8NXQ87qKvsVubOKQhf\")
Mower blades get worn down over a season (or many) and eventually come to do more tearing than cutting. If you see blades of grass after a mow that look tattered or brown at the end, it may be time for a little blade maintenance. Dull mower blades can do more harm than good. Tearing the grass can stress the lawn, leaving it open to disease. It will also leave it looking scrappy.
\n\n\n\nFor handy sorts who own tools and are into DIY maintenance, you can sharpen your mower blade quickly and easily. If this seems like too much hassle, you can buy a new blade for around twenty dollars. No matter what you choose, remove the spark plug before removing the blade, to avoid any freak accidents while you’re fiddling around down there.
\n\n\n\nHow you water is almost as important as when you water. Keep to a schedule and irrigate using infrequent, deep waterings rather than frequent, shallow waterings. Watering in the evening can leave grass moist overnight and make it vulnerable to fungal growth. Water early in the morning, and stay aware of watering restrictions to avoid fines.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/xIqKFQPgzaPwOLGMdX6ZaN3eEwUznk0i55BGN78YCztWPw3W971Mp3JVDMehTL_wFx8HMFhVcmUn9vFRC00w-fvFu5IGbJesDM7tnzvSKfiXHtTvvS7FacIIq3bGpEzutDKBLRwf\")
Most lawns will benefit from a little feeding and some relief from the compaction that happens over time. You should fertilize at the beginning and end of the growing season. Grass clippings are an excellent fertilizer for the lawn, so letting them stay where they fall is a good policy. Aerate each year to help your lawn “breathe,” which helps it stay healthy.
\n\n\n\nThese are just the basic guidelines for lawn mowing and maintenance in Austin. If you can get accustomed to maintenance and a schedule, you can spend less time slaving over your lawn and more time enjoying the great outdoors.
\n\n\n\nHave more questions about lawn mowing and maintenance in Austin? We got you covered! Go to our Austin, TX lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"Lawn Mowing and Maintenance in Austin","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5375375375375375,"src":"/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/1789c/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.jpg","srcSet":"/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/107df/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.jpg 320w,\n/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/293e9/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.jpg 500w,\n/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/f2cbb/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.jpg 800w,\n/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/1789c/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.jpg 960w,\n/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/a2a79/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/1dd6e/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/67b76/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.webp 320w,\n/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/8df11/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.webp 500w,\n/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/98a65/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.webp 800w,\n/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/1dd6e/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.webp 960w,\n/static/23d48992307467f3156a1a10cd4c0a4e/7aa54/lawn-mower-5-1024x666.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Mowing and Maintenance in Austin | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want your lawn to turn your neighbors green with envy? Read our guide to lawn mowing and maintenance in Austin for a lush, green lawn every summer."}}},{"node":{"id":"91f2ce66-a581-513b-94a7-daf19ed24f04","slug":"best-grass-types-flint","path":"/lawn-care/michigan/flint/best-grass-types-flint/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Ayoola Azzan is a versatile writer and investment enthusiast who hails from Nigeria. He loves developing an impactful course and enjoys meditating when at leisure.","name":"Ayoola Azzan","id":"bbad4bd5-6d15-5dbd-a18e-a835dfd091f5","path":"/author/ayoola-azzan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/bd07aedf4f4c15974bb501275dee93ce?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"658c6b99-bf82-550a-a0d5-6b23ee15b7f7","name":"Flint","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/flint/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"75fb394d-179e-5e85-92bb-a24a339af8a6","name":"Michigan","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/"}],"date":"March 23rd, 2023","excerpt":"For a cold-weather city like Flint, cool-season grasses are ideal. However, not all grass varieties can tolerate the region’s chilly weather. Here are the best grasses for seeding and growing lawns in Flint. In this article: 4 Great Grasses for Flint In Michigan, where each season is distinct and vibrant and winters are frosty, cool-season […]
\n","content":"\nFor a cold-weather city like Flint, cool-season grasses are ideal. However, not all grass varieties can tolerate the region’s chilly weather. Here are the best grasses for seeding and growing lawns in Flint.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn Michigan, where each season is distinct and vibrant and winters are frosty, cool-season grasses thrive. They actively grow in early spring and fall and stay green late into the fall before going dormant.
\n\n\n\nHere is a closer look at each.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pilot138-17 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThis grass is a top choice for Michigan homes because it tolerates cold and thrives in well-drained soils. In addition, its fast-growing, sod-forming properties allow for quick recovery of bare spots. It’s most easily recognized by its boat-shaped leaf tip and narrow grass blades. Its fine texture is highlighted by a lush emerald blue-green hue that makes it both visually appealing and comfortable under bare feet.
\n\n\n\nTo look its best and last as long as possible, this grass needs a fair amount of maintenance. Kentucky bluegrass needs regular fertilization per season and a lot of water during hot, dry spells to produce high-quality, weed-free turf grass.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fine-leaf-Fescue.jpg\")
Fine-leaf Fescue
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Fine fescue is another grass that performs well in cool or cold climates like Flint and maintains its fresh appearance year-round. In terms of drought and shade tolerance (partial or complete), this grass outperforms Kentucky bluegrass. Thanks to its deep roots, the finely textured, dark green blades germinate amazingly fast, even in poor or challenging soils.
\n\n\n\nThe only thing to worry about with fine fescue is the amount of water. Excessive fertilizer and water use will eventually harm this hardy grass species and cause thinning.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Tall Fescue
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
Tall fescue is an improved version of fine-textured fescue with a good covering time, excellent turf quality, minimal maintenance requirements, and higher tolerance to heat and drought. Its excellent performance on sandy and dry soils makes it ideal for dry regions in Michigan’s warmer climate.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners with pets, lots of kids, or who have had insect problems in the past may want to try tall fescue. The downside is that its rapid growth requires more frequent lawn mowing.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is renowned for growing extremely fast. Given the right conditions, it can begin growing in as little as five days. It’s hardy and drought-resistant, similar to fescue. Because of its rapid growth, perennial ryegrass acts as temporary shade for bluegrass to establish itself, as well as for varieties that cannot tolerate direct sunlight.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass grows in clumps and cannot spread because it has no rhizomes or stolons. This makes it less tolerant of heavy use.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nPlant between August and October for best results. If you miss that, try mid to late spring, but no later than mid-June.
Kentucky bluegrass. Its high cold hardiness makes it the most commonly grown grass in Michigan.
Tall fescue is tough enough to withstand Michigan’s cold winters, as well as heat and drought. Its deep, hard roots help it survive harsh conditions, even when heavily walked on.
It depends on the grass species and climate. On average, grass seed in Michigan takes 7 to 14 days to germinate.
As you can see, the best grass seed for a lawn in Michigan depends on where you live and the time of year. It’s, therefore, important to know the grass species to plant and maintain the lawn in the right place.
\n\n\n\nEstablishing and maintaining a great lawn is tough. If you need a little help, reach out to our lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Peakpx
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Flint, MI","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5018773466833542,"src":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1789c/Green-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/107df/Green-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/293e9/Green-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/f2cbb/Green-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1789c/Green-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/c26c2/Green-grass.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1dd6e/Green-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/67b76/Green-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/8df11/Green-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/98a65/Green-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1dd6e/Green-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/3cc96/Green-grass.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Flint, MI | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Here are our four top picks for the best cool-season grasses for Flint homeowners."}}},{"node":{"id":"89b3a45d-0e55-58cf-9e53-bc52cc2ea16c","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-st-augustine","path":"/lawn-care/fl/saint-augustine/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-st-augustine/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"9b5a7cc0-52e4-5870-a456-94b94f3508cb","name":"Saint Augustine","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/saint-augustine/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"As hurricane season approaches, homeowners begin to prepare their homes for potential damage. While many focus on strengthening their home’s structure, they may overlook the importance of hurricane-resistant landscaping. A landscape that’s well-designed will not only add beauty to your home but also provide protection from wind and water damage during a hurricane. By using […]
\n","content":"\nAs hurricane season approaches, homeowners begin to prepare their homes for potential damage. While many focus on strengthening their home’s structure, they may overlook the importance of hurricane-resistant landscaping. A landscape that’s well-designed will not only add beauty to your home but also provide protection from wind and water damage during a hurricane.
\n\n\n\nBy using hurricane-resistant plants, designing windbreaks, and implementing proper maintenance, your landscaping can help reduce the risk of damage to your property. Here are 12 hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for St. Augustine to help you prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou can follow these suggestions to make your landscape aesthetically pleasing and capable of enduring the turbulent winds and heavy rainfall that come with the hurricane season:
\n\n\n\nIf your property is situated on the waterfront, it is imperative to construct a seawall. The purpose of seawalls is to shield your home against the unrelenting pummeling of waves and avert erosion. Plus, having a seawall can help you avoid floods during storm surges.
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting a seawall for your property, you must consider various aspects, like the material to use and the associated cost. Opt for a seawall material that can endure the forces of the Atlantic Ocean, such as the following:
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t have a seawall, the shoreline will progressively erode. This, in turn, can inflict substantial damage to your waterfront property. Apart from helping you prevent flooding of your property during storms, seawalls can save you a considerable amount of money in terms of repairs. Hence, it’s crucial not to use materials that decay or corrode over time.
\n\n\n\nMaterials to avoid:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of building a seawall will depend on the material chosen, with costs varying between $113 to $770 per linear foot. But if you leave your property unprotected, the cost of restoring water damage can be significantly higher.
\n\n\n\nWhen preparing for a hurricane, homeowners often neglect backyard fences. Nevertheless, choosing the right type of fence appropriate for your home can have a significant impact. Remember to prioritize durability.
\n\n\n\nBenefits of hurricane-resistant fencing:
\n\n\n\nYou might think that a solid privacy fence is most effective because it can obstruct the wind. However, the absence of air circulation can cause it to give way under the force of high winds. Wooden fences, even the most robust, can be toppled over easily if there are no gaps large enough to permit the wind to flow through.
\n\n\n\nTypes of fencing to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAvoid spending a lot of money on fence replacements and repairs after a storm by investing in a fence that can resist hurricanes. Choose fences that have slats. The following are types of fencing that enable wind to move through with minimal obstruction:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Fence installation costs fluctuate depending on the material you choose, with the cost usually ranging from $8 to $46 per linear foot. Chain-link fences are typically priced between $12 and $33 per linear foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/palm-trees-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Shadowmeld Photography / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nHaving a hurricane-resistant landscape with wind-resistant trees can be extremely helpful when a hurricane passes through. These types of trees have robust and deep roots, a lower center of gravity, and sturdy trunks, reducing the probability of being uprooted by high-speed winds. This decreases the likelihood of your trees becoming a danger to your property or community.
\n\n\n\nEach tree species has unique characteristics, and some are more susceptible to wind damage than others. Here are some of the most exceptional tree species with excellent wind resistance:
\n\n\n\nAvoid planting certain trees in areas prone to hurricane winds, as they are more susceptible to wind damage. The University of Florida IFAS Extension states that the following trees should be avoided in hurricane-prone regions like St. Augustine:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The cost of professional tree planting services can vary significantly, ranging from $22 to $3,300. The total cost will be influenced by several factors, including the type of tree species, as well as its age and size. Typically, the expenses will be lower for small saplings than for larger, more mature trees.
\n\n\n\nFor homeowners who want to maintain a healthy lawn, living near the coast presents a unique challenge due to salty coastal air that can damage plants not suited for the environment. However, choosing the right plants can help. You should select native and salt-tolerant plants that can adapt to local environmental conditions and thrive in areas with high salt content in the soil and air.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners in St. Augustine prefer native plants because they have already evolved to survive in the specific climate and soil of the region. In addition, salt-tolerant plants can withstand high levels of salt water, making them perfect for coastal gardens.
\n\n\n\nOne of the key benefits of choosing salt-tolerant and native plants is that they require less maintenance and watering, which can save time and money. They also lessen the need for pesticides, fertilizers, and other environmentally harmful chemicals.
\n\n\n\nThe University of Florida IFAS extension recommends several popular native and salt-tolerant plants for coastal landscapes, including:
\n\n\n\nGrasses:
\n\n\n\nGroundcovers and flowers:
\n\n\n\nTrees and shrubs:
\n\n\n\nVines:
\n\n\n\nThese plants not only make your coastal landscape beautiful, but they also help support local ecosystems.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The cost of planting a tree can range from a budget-friendly $90 to a more expensive $3,212. Similarly, planting a flower bed can cost anywhere from $861 to $3,100, depending on factors such as the size of the bed and the type of flowers you choose.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tree-Placement.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matthew Paul Argall / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCareful consideration of tree placements is crucial to prevent them from causing property damage during a storm. While trees help enhance a property’s curb appeal and provide shade, you must keep them away from structures such as buildings and power lines.
\n\n\n\nTo determine where to plant your trees, consider their size at maturity and their root systems. A tree planted too close to a home or power line may cause property damage or power outages during a storm.
\n\n\n\nKeeping trees away from structures can bring many benefits. It can reduce the risk of property damage during a storm, prevent power outages caused by falling or swaying trees, and reduce maintenance costs. Planting trees too close to power lines or your home may require more frequent pruning and maintenance, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
\n\n\n\nTo ensure safe and effective tree placement, follow these tips:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The typical cost of tree removal services ranges from $347 to $1,117 per tree. For transplanting trees, it can cost anywhere between $158 and $880.
\n\n\n\nTrees can provide functional and aesthetic benefits when planted strategically. Planting trees in clusters of five or more can improve their resilience to high winds by over 10%, making them more effective in safeguarding your property during hurricane season. Additionally, grouping five trees with diverse appearances and heights can further enhance your property’s visual appeal.
\n\n\n\nHowever, you should avoid planting trees in a straight line. The University of Florida recommends a natural and unforced arrangement for planting trees – each tree must be within 10 feet of the other. This approach can create a strong and sustainable windbreak.
\n\n\n\nBy planting trees in groups, you can enjoy many benefits beyond just the beauty they bring to your lawn. Here are a few advantages of grouping trees:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Tree prices vary greatly depending on species and size, but the usual costs range from $150 to $1,850. To lower the cost per tree or sapling, you can purchase them in bulk. Plus, installing several trees will be less expensive per tree than having a single tree installed, so consider this when planning your landscape.
\n\n\n\nCreating a backyard buffer is a great way of preventing flooding and erosion caused by hurricanes while also creating a beautiful natural environment in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nA backyard buffer or riparian buffer is made up of trees, shrubs, flowers, and mulch that work together to absorb and slow down wind and water. By preventing the full force of the storm from reaching your home, the buffer can protect your property from damage and protect waterways from overheating.
\n\n\n\nOnce established, your backyard buffer can provide many benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nTo create a backyard buffer, choose native plants that can withstand heavy rains and high winds, such as Southern live oak and bald cypress. They also have strong roots that help keep the soil in place and prevent erosion. Additionally, you can use low-maintenance shrubs like firebush and wax myrtle to create a buffer zone around your home.
\n\n\n\nWhen installing your backyard buffer, remember to consult with garden centers, local nurseries, or environmental organizations for expert advice on creating a buffer suited for St. Augustine.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: There are many options for selecting plants, and prices will vary depending on the type of plant. For example, small native perennials are generally less expensive and can cost anywhere from $4 to $25 each. On the other hand, planting a tree can cost much higher, ranging from $22 to $3,300, depending on the tree species, size, and age.
\n\n\n\n![\"Brown](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/tree-grass-light-plant-field-lawn-1359857-pxhere.com-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nHurricane season can wreak havoc on your garden beds, so you should prepare them accordingly. Mulch is an essential part of maintaining a healthy garden, but remember to select the right kind to prevent damage during high winds.
\n\n\n\nOrganic, soft mulches are highly recommended for areas like St. Augustine that experience high winds. During a storm, hard and heavy mulches can become dangerous projectiles, causing damage to your property and neighboring homes.
\n\n\n\nExamples of organic, soft mulch:
\n\n\n\nUnlike hard mulches, such as pebbles, pea gravel, stones, and river rock, organic mulches remain in place better. Plus, they offer numerous benefits to plants, like providing insulation to plant roots, suppressing weed growth, and retaining moisture in the soil.
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting the type of soft mulch, avoid using any materials that may harbor disease or pests. Freshly cut grass clippings should be avoided since they can generate heat and attract harmful organisms. Also, avoid using straw or hay as they may contain weed seeds that will proliferate in your garden beds.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: On average, aged wood chips are priced at approximately $70 per cubic yard, while shredded bark mulch costs around $65 per cubic yard. Alternatively, you can get fresh wood chips for free from a certified arborist or a local tree recycling center. Or you can make your own mulch by composting leaves, providing a nutrient-rich material for your garden beds.
\n\n\n\nTo protect your yard from the effects of extreme weather, you should prioritize regular maintenance. This applies not just to your garden and lawn but also to your trees.
\n\n\n\nInspecting your existing trees regularly is an important part of maintaining a healthy and resilient landscape, particularly in the months leading up to hurricane season. Damaged or diseased trees can pose a significant threat to your property and safety during extreme weather events.
\n\n\n\nDuring inspections, look for signs of damage or disease, such as yellowing leaves, dead branches, and cracks in the trunk. If you leave dying or weakened trees untouched, even mild winds can cause them to fall. So if you want to avoid more problems later on, you should address these issues immediately.
\n\n\n\nTo ensure you identify all hazardous trees on your property, consider hiring a certified arborist to inspect them. These professionals can identify hazardous trees in your yard, and you can work together to develop an effective plan for safely removing them.
\n\n\n\nTo avoid property damage caused by falling branches during a storm, it’s important to take preventive measures in your landscape. Strong winds can easily snap branches, creating a potential hazard for your property. A seemingly harmless long branch hanging over your roof could cause significant damage if it’s not removed in time.
\n\n\n\nTo prevent such scenarios, be sure to prune and trim any weak or overgrown branches on your existing trees. Regular maintenance will ensure your plants are healthy and strong, and won’t succumb to high winds during a storm. If you don’t want a broken branch to smash through a window, damage your car or cause injury, you should keep your trees in good shape.
\n\n\n\nKeeping your property safe during high winds requires more than just tree maintenance. You also should keep your lawn and garden well-maintained by regularly mowing, weeding, and removing debris. This will prevent any hazards from flying around during storms. Regularly fertilizing your lawn and garden can help ensure that your plants remain strong and healthy, and able to withstand extreme weather conditions.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Bush trimming can range from $45 to $75 per hour or $7 to $24 per bush, depending on the type of bush and the amount of work needed. Hedge trimming can cost between $56 and $85 per hour, while tree trimming costs can range from $227 to $708, depending on the size and complexity of the job.
\n\n\n\n![\"storm](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/rsz_6447392233_f7b09919fa_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fried Dough / Flickr / Public Domain
\n\n\n\nTo prevent potential damage caused by rain, you should take precautions to ensure the proper flow of stormwater. This includes:
\n\n\n\nStanding water or puddling can be a risk to your property and weaken roots, making trees more susceptible to damage during storms. A French drain is an effective solution to prevent water from pooling in your yard. This involves installing a drainpipe that redirects water away from your home and ensures proper drainage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Be prepared to spend anywhere from $154 to $1,059 to have your yard cleaned up. If you’ll be having a French drain installed, it can cost from $500 for a small, simple project to $18,000 for a larger or more complex installation.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to clearing debris, trimming trees, and installing drainage systems, another way of preparing your yard for an impending storm is to provide extra protection for your plants. This can be achieved by wrapping trees and large plants with burlap, which will help to reduce the impact of strong winds.
\n\n\n\nFor smaller plants, using a floating row cover and securing it to the ground with garden stakes is a good option. Although these covers may not withstand severe hurricanes, they can still provide protection and lessen the amount of damage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Burlap comes in different sizes and prices, ranging from $7 to $180 per roll. On the other hand, floating row covers have a cost of $11 to $240 per cover, depending on their size and type.
\n\n\n\nTo ensure your lawn and plants recover quickly after a hurricane, you should be mindful of the amount of water they receive. While automatic sprinklers can be convenient during the year, they can cause further damage during a storm. Excessive water can saturate your lawn, and the plants may struggle to recover from it.
\n\n\n\nYou should turn off your water supply entirely to prevent damage from burst pipes during a storm. Once the hurricane has passed, assess the damage and adjust the watering schedule accordingly to give your plants the time they need to recover.
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: You don’t have to spend a dime. In fact, it can help lower your monthly water bill.
\n\n\n\nEven though St. Augustine is not as susceptible to hurricane damage as other cities, you must take the necessary precautions and be prepared before hurricane season arrives. Keeping yourself updated with weather forecasts and following storm warnings can help you minimize potential damage to your home and ensure your family’s safety.
\n\n\n\nDo the following to prepare for a hurricane:
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for hurricane-resistant grass options, Zoysiagrass and St. Augustinegrass are the best grass types for you.
Zoysiagrass is a warm-season turfgrass that is highly resistant to strong winds and requires minimal maintenance. Additionally, it’s an excellent choice for homes located along the First Coast due to its salt tolerance.
On the other hand, the warm-season St. Augustinegrass is native to coastal areas. It’s known for its resilience in humid and hot weather conditions, heavy foot traffic, and rough weather conditions. It’s also salt-tolerant and can be an excellent option for homeowners looking for hurricane-resistant grasses.
The Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean offer a conducive environment for hurricanes to develop and strengthen, especially during the peak of the hurricane season, which falls between mid-August and late October. But hurricane season usually begins June 1 and lasts until Nov. 30.
Like Jacksonville, St. Augustine is highly susceptible to hurricanes because of its location along the East Coast. While hurricanes can strike this area at any time, the frequency of these storms varies from year to year.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), St. Augustine has been affected by tropical storms or hurricanes approximately every two to three years over the past century. Note, though, that this is not a fixed pattern, and some years may see more or fewer storms. You must always remain vigilant and prepared for the potential impact of these powerful storms.
As St. Augustine homeowners know all too well, hurricanes are an ever-present threat during the storm season. However, taking proactive steps to prepare for hurricanes can go a long way.
\n\n\n\nOne key aspect of hurricane preparedness is creating hurricane-resistant landscaping. By selecting the right plants, installing barriers and drainage systems, and securing loose items in your yard, you can help minimize damage to your home and ensure your family’s safety.
Don’t wait until the next storm is on the horizon to take action. Reach out to a St. Augustine landscaping professional today and create a beautiful and resilient landscape that can withstand even the toughest storms.
Main Image Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n","title":"12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for St. Augustine, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/1789c/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/107df/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 320w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/293e9/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 500w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/f2cbb/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 800w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/1789c/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 960w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/c26c2/Hurricane-affected-trees.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/1dd6e/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/67b76/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 320w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/8df11/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 500w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/98a65/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 800w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/1dd6e/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 960w,\n/static/b2b7ee28e4bb2d40d522b7eb28199a91/3cc96/Hurricane-affected-trees.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for St. Augustine, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Create a beautiful landscape design that can withstand storms with these 12 hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for St. Augustine."}}},{"node":{"id":"d51626b4-31cf-532e-a90e-587dd42960c6","slug":"benefits-xeriscaping-your-lawn","path":"/blog/landscaping/benefits-xeriscaping-your-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Kelly Holland","id":"87ed81cb-6dc6-5b6f-8673-e295fb5aa8f3","path":"/author/karen/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a7bdc84bcad759506a493dca25650999?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4fa4848-36b3-57c3-925d-ae36e49e878f","name":"Garden Landscape","count":8,"path":"/category/garden-landscape/"},{"id":"cfca3a30-772e-535e-90a9-3056dfc1de8c","name":"Home & Garden","count":15,"path":"/category/home-garden/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"October 14th, 2019","excerpt":"Keeping a lawn healthy and green through the height of a hot summer, is hard enough. It gets even harder if you live in a drought-prone area such as Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, or Texas. That’s why xeriscape landscaping is so popular in those areas. Xeriscaping doesn’t mean you have to fill your yard with cacti; […]
\n","content":"\nKeeping a lawn healthy and green through the height of a hot summer, is hard enough. It gets even harder if you live in a drought-prone area such as Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, or Texas. That’s why xeriscape landscaping is so popular in those areas. Xeriscaping doesn’t mean you have to fill your yard with cacti; it just means you use plants and landscaping that needs little water. So if you’re ready to give up those water-hungry plants and lower your monthly water bill, join the crowd.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/1a-vG2kR6WgTmvVLrtHGejLDqaXJP7j2caONyxpIKfaY03T4HnZ3oBoykjLVJghuVhJDwX-4j3Q65fY9n-qnuvSwzp47hMKKBDboA6msh62_4igT70m74vd0WECRDRi5yHHlR39X\")
The term “xeriscape” comes from the Greek word “xeros,” meaning dry. Denver Water, the city’s utility service, coined and copyrighted the word in the 1980s when Colorado was experiencing a worse-than-usual drought. The water department looked at the soil in most yards, (clay soil doesn’t absorb water quickly), and the types of sprinkler systems people were using. The city began by offering rebates to people who used drip irrigation and turfgrass that requires little water. You’ll notice by the front of the office, the utility practices what it preaches.
\n\n\n\n“Traditional Kentucky bluegrass is lush and hardy, but it requires a substantial amount of water in our semi-arid climate,” according to Denver Water. “One way to use less water is to reduce the amount of bluegrass turf in your landscape. Native or low-water-use plants, patios, decks, or mulches can beautify your landscape while saving water. Also, try planting turf such as buffalo grass, blue grama grass, turf-type tall fescue, and fine fescues to reduce water use in your landscape.”
\n\n\n\nThe North Marin Water District, which provides water to Novato and other communities just north of San Francisco, offers a “Cash for Grass” program that pays rebates to customers who remove lawns and plant approved low-water plants instead. In 2019, almost 15,000 square feet of turfgrass were converted.
\n\n\n\nThe district also saw xeriscaping as a way to stop people from fertilizing their lawns and gardens. Native plants and grasses are adapted to the soil, so they need few amendments. What little they need can be provided by grass clippings and other organic matter … things that won’t harm the ocean or waterways.
\n\n\n\nAs long as you’re making your lawn water-wise, go a step further and make your garden more efficient. Plant drought-resistant plants such as agave, juniper, yarrow, and lavender. Many herbs and spices are also drought-tolerant, such as thyme, sage, and oregano. The native and drought-tolerant plants will also attract local wildlife and pollinators to your garden.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZEhlju3G6ZCAaw6jn0gF2iZIqU1ztxS2JYJ6ajV9qWS-KrBC-xAfbEPjHrfGxAVLpjz0WqDPWLQqTkfa_foDgJQcwANxKrtTtNGVAQxl5yDwbCgOuaV0Z-am26dM57JqO8OkkT2L\")
If you’re ready to take the plunge and xeriscape, don’t rush out and dig up all your flowers and turf. Start by mapping out your yard, noting where the shade trees are and which areas get the most sun. It’s also a good idea to see how much rainfall your yard gets in a typical year. You want plants that will thrive with the water nature provides.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re not crazy about drought-tolerant grasses, consider a rock garden or mulched border around your patio and yard. Mulching around trees and plants helps keep moisture from absorbing. Plant ground covers around sloped areas to prevent any water from running off. While a completely hardscaped backyard may sound appealing, check with your city or county. Some municipalities, including Austin, Texas, require a percentage of your land to be landscaped, to prevent rainwater from pouring into the street.
\n\n\n\nThe Environmental Protection Agency estimates that as much as 50% of irrigation water usage is wasted. By opting for a xeriscaped yard, you can save hundreds of gallons of water from being squandered over just one scorching summer. So go ahead and plant a cactus and other succulents. Your lawn will look sharp for years to come.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: Downtowngal, CC-by SA-3.0
\n","title":"Benefits of Xeriscaping Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.549636803874092,"src":"/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/1789c/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/107df/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 320w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/293e9/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 500w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/f2cbb/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 800w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/1789c/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 960w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/356ef/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/1dd6e/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/67b76/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 320w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/8df11/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 500w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/98a65/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 800w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/1dd6e/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 960w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/93f70/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Benefits of Xeriscaping Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"97ed0690-33a4-5dde-86f5-9a94a61287d3","slug":"how-to-edge-a-lawn","path":"/lawn-care/how-to-edge-a-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Frank Naper is a nature enthusiast who loves to travel and explore new cities, taking nature photographs along the way.","name":"Frank Naper","id":"548facf1-0faf-5729-a658-167972066913","path":"/author/frank-naper/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/905ec21d5a8e70f5f8486364c08aa6b2?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"cfca3a30-772e-535e-90a9-3056dfc1de8c","name":"Home & Garden","count":15,"path":"/category/home-garden/"},{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"bf4daca3-f477-56c4-b0f9-b212905a3b28","name":"Tools, Apps & Accessories","count":6,"path":"/category/garden-accessories/"}],"date":"October 15th, 2019","excerpt":"Proper lawn care is more of an art than a chore. Nowhere is that more evident than in lawn edging. Your neighbor’s perfect lawn and crisp edges might make you jealous, but with a few simple tools, a little patience, and a lot of practice, you can achieve the clean lines of perfect edging. Here […]
\n","content":"\nProper lawn care is more of an art than a chore. Nowhere is that more evident than in lawn edging. Your neighbor’s perfect lawn and crisp edges might make you jealous, but with a few simple tools, a little patience, and a lot of practice, you can achieve the clean lines of perfect edging. Here are some DIY techniques professional landscapers use to give flower beds and walkways that manicured lawn look you envy.
\n\n\n\nString Trimmer: A quality power edger is an investment, so do your research and don’t skimp on this purchase. Gas trimmers are heavy but ideal for large yards, while electric trimmers are lighter and more eco-friendly. A straight shaft will give you a longer reach and better ability to cut curves than a curved shaft.
\n\n\n\nManual Edging Tool: This tool looks a little bit like a shovel but has a flat, half-moon edger blade. For small yards or an aversion to power tools, this tool is the answer.
\n\n\n\nManual Rotary Edger: This one looks like a stick with a spiky wheel at its end. The spikes are rotating blades that shear off grass in a line. Used to manually edge grass at the edge of sidewalks or other hardscape surfaces. Good for small lawns with thin-bladed grass varieties.
\n\n\n\nHand Shears: For the finishing touches, trimming grass in hard-to-mow spots.
\n\n\n\nGarden Hose or Rope: Use to mark out the edge if you are making new garden beds and need a guide.
\n\n\n\nA Plank of Wood: You’ll only need this if you are using a manual edger to do the job.
\n\n\n\nThere are only a few ways to go about edging a lawn: using a power edger or weed eater, using a manual edging tool, or a combination of both. String trimmers sometimes come with edger attachments that can make short work of overgrown grass spilling into walkways and flower beds. These power tools can make the job easier. They can also make a big mess of an edge in no time if you’re not skilled at using them. Here are some tips for both methods.
\n\n\n\nPower edging is more hardcore than manual edging and requires a little more caution. Follow these steps for a safe, successful experience:
\n\n\n\nMowing with a lawn mower is always the first step in edging. If you are edging in a straight line, you can use a board as a guide. Before you begin, make sure the blade is sharp. If it isn’t, grab a file and go to work.
\n\n\n\nWith your sharp tool in hand, lay your board along the outside of the straight edge you want to cut. Stand on top of the board with one foot to secure it, and then drive the half-moon edger a couple of inches into the turf, using the edge of the board as a guide. If you’re edging against pavers or a sidewalk, you may come up against the edge, cutting a wedge-shaped bit of turf and earth as you go. Rock the edging blade back and forth and then scoop out the grass and dirt you’ve cut away, depositing them out out of the way to be collected later.
\n\n\n\nKeep a consistent angle by using the board edge as a guide, and make sure the blade stays nice and sharp. Susan Harris of Behnke Nursery recommends edging garden beds to avoid high-maintenance mowing around pavers and stone borders. “It’s called a Victorian Trench,” she says. “It does what edging needs to do — holds back the lawn from the garden and the garden from the lawn — without being an eyesore in the garden.” If you’re manually edging along a curved edge, you’ll want to overlap your cuts and double your depth, cutting to a maximum of 6 inches. When you’re finished with flower bed edges, backfill the trench you’ve dug with mulch for a clean, weed-resistant edge.
\n\n\n\nWhile it may seem like a lot of work, edging, like aerating and fertilizing should be a part of your lawn care routine. It gives your yard a tidy, professionally managed look and feel, and instantly increases your curb appeal.
\n","title":"How to Edge a Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/1789c/jack-edging.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/107df/jack-edging.jpg 320w,\n/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/293e9/jack-edging.jpg 500w,\n/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/f2cbb/jack-edging.jpg 800w,\n/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/1789c/jack-edging.jpg 960w,\n/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/356ef/jack-edging.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/1dd6e/jack-edging.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/67b76/jack-edging.webp 320w,\n/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/8df11/jack-edging.webp 500w,\n/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/98a65/jack-edging.webp 800w,\n/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/1dd6e/jack-edging.webp 960w,\n/static/cd8f28f8891294bf820abc65435ec04c/93f70/jack-edging.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Edge a Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"5fc7656f-555a-5c98-8e1f-8e6c5ee9567b","slug":"identify-common-lawn-problems","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/identify-common-lawn-problems/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nicki DeStasi is a writer, author, and teacher who grew up in western Massachusetts and currently resides in the Austin area. She enjoys flower and vegetable gardening, reading, cooking, listening to true-crime podcasts, and spending time with her husband, two children, dog, and cat.","name":"Nicki DeStasi","id":"ffbf62e2-d627-5a5f-a041-4eaa9ac66924","path":"/author/nicki-destasi/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9846092d7afb2db8d0a4daa2454074f0?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 30th, 2018","excerpt":"A healthy lawn is good for your soul, but lawn care problems are not. Austin is home to Lady Bird Lake, live music, and food truck tacos, but it also has compacted soil, high temperatures, and minimal rain. These factors cause problems that devastate a healthy lawn. Read on to discover how to identify common […]
\n","content":"\nA healthy lawn is good for your soul, but lawn care problems are not. Austin is home to Lady Bird Lake, live music, and food truck tacos, but it also has compacted soil, high temperatures, and minimal rain. These factors cause problems that devastate a healthy lawn. Read on to discover how to identify common lawn care problems in Austin and how to fix them.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll discover:
\n\n\n\nFrom dollar spot to drought, Austin has more than its fair share of lawn problems. Learn how to identify and solve common lawn problems in Austin.
\n\n\n\nWith the high temperatures and minimal rainfall, warm-season grasses thrive best in Austin lawns. However, not all warm-season grass types can handle compacted soils. If you’re having trouble growing a thick lawn, consider switching your grass type.
\n\n\n\nThe best grass types for Austin lawns are:
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is light-green and fine-textured. This fast-growing grass is used in home lawns, sports fields, and parks. It has excellent drought tolerance, high traffic tolerance, and low to moderate disease potential. However, it has low shade tolerance and is moderately high maintenance.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass grows quickly, creating a thick, coarsely textured, dark green lawn. Its nickname is “carpet grass” thanks to its dense growth habit. It has good drought tolerance and high shade tolerance but is more vulnerable to chinch bugs than other warm-season cultivars. St. Augustinegrass has low traffic tolerance and high disease potential.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is soft, fine-textured, and gray-green or blue-green. Although slow-growing, it won’t invade flower beds like many fast-growing grass types. It has excellent drought tolerance, very low water needs, and goes dormant later than other warm-season grass types. The downside is it has low traffic and shade tolerance.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is emerald green with a medium to fine leaf texture. It grows quickly and stays green longer than most warm-season specimens. It has low to moderate disease potential, great drought tolerance, and moderate to high traffic tolerance. However, it recovers slowly and requires moderate maintenance
\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\nEven the healthiest lawns can develop a disease. Once a lawn disease takes hold, the problem continues to worsen until the disease is eradicated. Three factors converge to cause lawn disease:
\n\n\n\nBrown patch causes a smoke ring, resembling a grayish-purple-bordered ring. This fungal disease doesn’t affect grass roots but will infect the blades and leave brown patches in your lawn. It develops with a wet lawn and nighttime temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Brown patch affects bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and buffalograss.
\n\n\n\nTake all patch is a fungal disease that is most active during moist spring’s moderate temperatures. This devastating, hard-to-control disease begins with yellowing leaves and darkening roots. Soon, turf thins as the roots and stolons turn black and die. Take all patch effects bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and buffalograss.
\n\n\n\nIn the spring through fall, dollar spot present as round, white or tan, silver dollar-sized circles. This fungal disease is active when the grass is wet for 10 to 12 hours daily and the nights are above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Drainage, mowing, and foot traffic spread dollar spot. This disease affects most grasses, including bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and buffalograss.
\n\n\n\nDuring spring and early summer, gray leaf spot develops on St. Augustinegrass and buffalograss when the temperature is warm, and the grass is moist, especially in shaded areas. The fungus causes oval, tan lesions with brown or purplish borders on the grass blades. When the grass eventually dies, the turf appears burned or scorched.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustine Decline, or SAD, is an incurable viral disease that only affects St. Augustinegrass and centipedegrass. At first, SAD resembles nutrient deficiency or insect issues. The grass blades appear spotty, yellow, and weak, and the stolon growth will slow. When fertilizers and fungal treatments do not help your declining turfgrass, it’s probably SAD.
\n\n\n\nRust prefers warm, humid conditions and grass stressed by drought, low nitrogen, and shade. This fungal disease begins as small orange to reddish-brown flecks that enlarge to form small, oval blisters containing powdery orange to reddish-brown spores. The blisters turn black, and the leaf dies. Rust affects Zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, and St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nThe majority of lawn diseases are fungal, so using a fungicide is the best solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions. Too much fungicide burns grass, and too little is ineffective.
\n\n\n\nIf you prefer a natural solution, there are a few options, including:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_23679288519_2efd3eee6f_o.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Simon / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPests are a nuisance and bad for lawns. There are two types of pests in Austin that cause lawn damage: insects and wildlife.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass are more pest-prone while Zoysiagrass and buffalograss are more resistant. If a problem pops up, act fast before the pests spread, causing irreversible damage.
\n\n\n\nFire ants damage lawns by tunneling and creating ant hills. Their mounds can grow up to 18 inches tall. Apply fire ant bait, following the manufacturer’s directions. Sometimes the colony will abandon the mound and create a new one a few yards away. If this cycle continues, consider hiring a professional to handle the problem.
\n\n\n\nGrubs are small, fat, white, c-shaped beetle larvae with burnt orange heads and six legs near the front of their body. Grubs feast on your grass roots, causing brown spots and dead turf. To eliminate them, use a grub-specific pesticide. For a natural method, apply nematodes or milky spores. Regular dethatching and aeration help by limiting their food supply.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs are tiny black insects with white wings. They suck the sap from the base and stolons of grass blades before injecting a toxic substance that prevents the plant from transporting water. Without water, patches of your lawn turn yellow and eventually die. In the spring, apply preventive insecticides. In the summer and fall, use targeted insecticides.
\n\n\n\nDespite the name, armyworms are dark brown caterpillars with white, orange, or yellow stripes. They devour grass blades. Use commercial-grade pesticides to prevent these invaders, and maintain your lawn, as they like dense, thatched, moist areas.
\n\n\n\nNote: Mow and irrigate your lawn a full twenty-four hours before insecticide applications. It’s best to use a broad-spectrum non-repellent insecticide containing carbaryl or pyrethroid to treat affected areas. Experts advise applying preventative treatments in May and June.
\n\n\n\nDespite being the 10th largest city in the country, Austin has a surprising amount of wildlife. While it’s lovely to see nature’s friends as you bustle about your day, they can pose problems for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nDeer are among the most troublesome animals affecting yards. They eat vegetation such as flowers, young leaves, and broad-leaf weeds. Sprinkling dog or human hair around your lawn helps keep them at bay or try a deer-repellent product found at Lowe’s, Tractor Supply, or other home outdoor retailers.
\n\n\n\nRaccoons, skunks, and opossums tear up lawns looking for insects or places to bury nuts. Keep a close eye on insect problems to restrict the food supply for these animals. Apply capsaicin or mint to repel these invaders. However, note that you will need to reapply after rainfall.
\n\n\n\nRabbits love to eat grass, and their concentrated urine causes brown spots. If you notice spots in your area that appear to be mowed down, you may have a rabbit problem. To stop Thumper, spray odors on your grass, like capsaicin, castor oil, or predator urine.
\n\n\n\nNot all tunneling animals will eat your plants and grass, but they do destroy your lawn. Moles won’t eat your lawn, but they love digging for bugs. Voles and gophers feast on grass and roots. Use traps, bait, or repellent. For a natural method, try peppermint oil, castor oil, coyote, cat, and dog urine, garlic, coffee grounds, fish oil, or scented dryer sheets.
\n\n\n\nCats and dogs dig and urinate on lawns and flower beds, causing brown spots. To keep cats and dogs off your lawn, try repellent, motion-activated sprinklers, or ultrasonic devices. For a more natural solution, try using citrus, coffee grounds, vinegar, pipe tobacco, blood meal, or essential oils.
\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\nWeeds love an unhealthy lawn and signify a deeper problem. To make matters worse, weeds steal nutrients, water, and sunlight from your grass, all while creating an ideal environment for pests and diseases. One of the best ways to control weeds is to maintain a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nThere are two ways to control weeds: chemical treatments and hand pulling. Often, hand pulling is the safest way to remove weeds. Identify the type of weed before selecting your removal method to ensure proper elimination.
\n\n\n\nFollow these weeding tips:
\n\n\n\nWeeds are everywhere, but some are a bigger pain in the grass than others. Here are a few particularly nasty Austin weeds.
\n\n\n\nAnnual sow thistle grows everywhere, including roadsides, lawns, and gardens. Like dandelions, they have yellow flowers that turn into white, fluffy seeds that attract and harbor pests.
\n\n\n\nChickweed is challenging to remove. One plant has over 25,000 seeds that stay viable for ten years. It grows in a thick mat and is identifiable by its small, smooth, oval-with-a-point leaves and clusters of tiny white flowers. Chickweed sucks the nitrogen from the soil, depleting resources.
\n\n\n\nNutsedge is often declared the world’s worst weed. It resembles grass but grows twice as fast. Its roots are tubers and rhizomatous that grow 6 to 12 inches deep. Nutsedge is horrible because if you rip out the plant, the tubers are left behind to create new plants. To eliminate nutsedge, apply multiple treatments.
\n\n\n\nAlthough there are 35 crabgrass varieties, smooth crabgrass thrives in Austin’s warm weather. It grows everywhere. Smooth crabgrass is low-growing with dull green leaves. It tolerates mowing and produces seeds, making it difficult to eliminate.
\n\n\n\nSpotted spurge is a prostrate-growing, groundcover plant. It has small, dark green, oval leaves with a dark red to purple spot in the middle. Spotted Surge is a skin irritant to some people and toxic to some animals.
\n\n\n\n![\"dethatcher](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hand-scarifiers-g35cd23e32_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompacted soil and thatch will strangle a lawn, but they also attract pests and disease. Unfortunately, Austin’s soil is prone to soil compaction and thatch.
\n\n\n\nHealthy soil has pore space that allows water, oxygen, and nutrients to filter to roots. Compacted soil is pressed together, reducing pore space and disallowing roots to grow. Compacted soil stunts and starves grass. It also reduces beneficial earthworm activity, which boosts fertility, breaks down thatch, and improves soil structure.
\n\n\n\nCore aeration relieves compacted soils. It is the process of removing plugs from the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate your lawn. Plugs are about 2 to 3 inches long, three-quarter inches wide, and 3 to 4 inches apart, allowing roots to grow deeply, creating a stronger, more robust lawn. You can purchase or rent an aerator from a home improvement store.
\n\n\n\nThatch is a combination of dead and living roots. You get thatch build-up when turf produces grass faster than it is broken down. Some thatch is good because it insulates the soil and retains water. But thatch over a half inch will reduce water and nutrient absorption, starving your grass.
\n\n\n\nMany Austin lawns are prone to thatch build-up, because:
\n\n\n\nThatch-prone grass types include:
\n\n\n\nTo get rid of thatch, you have a few options. Liquid dethatching increases enzymes and thatch-eating organisms. A dethatching rake works for mild thatch, but if you have moderate build-up or more, use a power-driven dethatcher.
\n\n\n\n![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Orange-sprinkler-in-dry-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bignai / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBeing an Austinite, you know that summers are hot and dry, but sometimes we get even less rain than normal. Like all living things, your grass needs water to survive, so restricted water access causes stress. Grasses turn brown, go dormant, and in extreme cases, die.
\n\n\n\nHere are some best practices for lawn care during a drought:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/heatwave-gb5348e647_1280-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWatering practices have a powerful effect on your lawn’s health. Your grass and native plants are adapted to Austin’s USDA Hardiness Zone, 8, but they still face high temperatures, drought, and water restrictions. Consider investing in an automatic irrigation system that allows you to program it for your lawn’s needs.
\n\n\n\nFollow these tips to get the most out of your watering practices:
\n\n\n\nFollow the water recommendations for common Austin grass types:
\n\n\n\n![\"lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Dont-Mow-too-much.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImproper mowing causes brown, damaged turf. Proper mowing is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy lawn. This means mowing at the right time, the right frequency, and the right height.
\n\n\n\nFollow these mowing tips to maintain a healthy lawn:
\n\n\n\nKnowing when to mow is also critical for a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe frequency of mowing changes with the seasons. Growth rates vary by grass type, but here’s an approximate mowing schedule by season:
\n\n\n\nGrass type is a significant factor for mowing best practices. These are the recommended summer mowing heights and frequencies for popular Austin grass types:
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Different-Fertilizer.jpg\")
Photo Credit: evgenyb / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore you start spreading fertilizer, be sure to understand your soil.
\n\n\n\nAustin has three ecoregions: the Edwards Plateau, the Blackland Prairies, and the Post Oak Savannah Floodplains. Each ecoregion has a different soil type:
\n\n\n\nOther factors that affect soil quality include:
\n\n\n\nKnowing your soil type is essential. Experts recommend getting your soil tested every 1 to 3 years. Once you receive your results, plan a fertilization schedule.
\n\n\n\nMost lawns need fertilization, but too much will burn the grass. Here are a few fertilizing tips to help you feed your lawn without causing damage:
\n\n\n\nThe average grass needs about 0.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn, but each grass type differs. Here are the typical fertilization needs for common Austin grass types:
\n\n\n\n![\"Mushrooms](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Mushrooms-in-Lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe list of problems a lawn can face is as long as a child’s wish list to Santa. Along with the common lawn problems in this article, lawns can face many more challenges, including:
\n\n\n\nAll of these problems put stress on or kill healthy turfgrass, leaving you with a yellowing, thinning, or patchy lawn.
\n\n\n\nTo solve yellow, thinning, or patchy grass, you first need to address the underlying problem. Whether it’s grubs or brown patch, solve the problem before beginning repair. To repair, remove dead grass, apply grass seed, and then water and fertilize as needed. If the underlying problem is the soil, address those needs before planting fresh sod or seed.
\n\n\n\nMany lawn problems that Austin faces can be avoided with routine maintenance. For more information on how to care for your turf, check out our comprehensive guide to summer lawn care in Austin.
\n\n\n\nYes, lawn care chemicals can be dangerous. Herbicides and pesticides were designed to kill insects and broadleaf weeds, and they can be harmful to humans and pets if used incorrectly. However, the EPA maintains that lawn care products used according to the manufacturer’s directions are safe.
However, some studies have shown that some lawn care products can cause health problems. Round-up, for example, has lost multiple lawsuits, and one of its products was banned in France. According to the World Health Organization, the IARC classified glyphosate–many herbicide’s active ingredient–as “probably carcinogenic to humans.”
Regular lawn care should begin at the very beginning of the growing season. In Austin, the growing season starts in February or March, depending on temperatures and the weather.
Yes and no. Some experts cite multiple reasons why lawns are bad for the environment, while others tout their benefits. Here are the environmental pros and cons of home lawns:
Pros
• Lawns are carbon sinks, lowering carbon dioxide and cooling the air
• They prevent erosion and reduce flooding
• Improves water and soil quality
• Reduce noise and light reflection
Cons
• Gas-powered equipment: EPA says 5% of all air pollution comes from lawnmowers
• Synthetic fertilizers: Runoff pollutes local groundwater and other aquatic ecosystems, creating a spike in toxic algae. Soil microbes turn additional synthetic fertilizer into nitrous oxide gas, the third most abundant greenhouse gas.
• Fresh water use: In arid climates, lawns use a lot of fresh water, causing groundwater decline and depletion.
Having a backyard party-worthy lawn takes a lot of work and constant vigilance, but that’s time away from your family, friends, and hobbies. Instead of breaking your back, let Wikilawn set you up with a local lawn care professional. They’ll take care of your lawn problems and maintenance, so you can get back to making memories with your loved ones.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Harry Rose, Macleay Grass Man / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"How to Identify Common Lawn Care Problems in Austin, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/1789c/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.jpg","srcSet":"/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/107df/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.jpg 320w,\n/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/293e9/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.jpg 500w,\n/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/f2cbb/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.jpg 800w,\n/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/1789c/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.jpg 960w,\n/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/c26c2/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/1dd6e/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/67b76/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.webp 320w,\n/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/8df11/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.webp 500w,\n/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/98a65/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.webp 800w,\n/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/1dd6e/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.webp 960w,\n/static/65db01f98f927181acdb0e85ab9b8253/3cc96/Pennisetum-clandestinum-yellowing-fungul-disease.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Identify Common Lawn Care Problems in Austin, TX","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Maintaining a healthy lawn is tricky, and lawn problems make it harder. Discover common lawn care problems in Austin and how to fix them."}}},{"node":{"id":"1317afa2-6990-56ff-b781-6b3693010f0c","slug":"drought-tolerant-landscaping-ideas-oklahoma","path":"/lawn-care/ok/drought-tolerant-landscaping-ideas-oklahoma/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"d2d6ff96-cc14-5d0f-bbfe-f7eac3bba6d9","name":"Oklahoma","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ok/"}],"date":"May 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Several parts of Oklahoma are prone to tough periods of drought, especially in northwest counties, such as Cimarron, Texas, and Beaver. If you reside in similarly affected areas, it is vital you design a landscape that can tolerate drought conditions. If not, your yard could require plenty of maintenance and constant spending. So we’ve compiled […]
\n","content":"\nSeveral parts of Oklahoma are prone to tough periods of drought, especially in northwest counties, such as Cimarron, Texas, and Beaver. If you reside in similarly affected areas, it is vital you design a landscape that can tolerate drought conditions. If not, your yard could require plenty of maintenance and constant spending. So we’ve compiled a list of drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for Oklahoma, helping you spruce up your backyard in an efficient, cost-effective manner.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nWhen a landscape is drought-tolerant, it can thrive with little to no supplemental water. It consists of boulders, hardscapes, native perennials, and other features that are considered low-maintenance. Essentially, they are features or plants that can withstand dry periods.
\n\n\n\nHowever, drought-tolerant does not mean zero water needs. Native plants that tolerate drought may still require some amount of water to grow or survive. They are not entirely resistant to drought, but their water needs are quite low compared to other high-maintenance plants. This is one of the key purposes of a drought-tolerant landscape— conserving water!
\n\n\n\nThe upcoming section will cover 8 ideas for a drought-tolerant landscape, including hardscapes and artificial turfgrass.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bur](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bur-Oak-Quercus-Macrocarpa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNative plants grow naturally in Oklahoma, comfortably able to thrive as they are accustomed to its climate and soil conditions. Going native can reduce the amount of time spent on maintenance, attract hummingbirds and beneficial pollinators, and boost the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nHowever, not all Oklahoma native plants are able to withstand dry periods. Some trees or wildflowers require plenty of water to grow, so they are obviously not a good fit for your low-maintenance landscape. Additionally, you need to consider your area’s plant hardiness zone to select the right drought-tolerant plants.
\n\n\n\nTo help your decision-making process, below are some suggestions for native drought-tolerant plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on the plant’s size and type, 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![\"Rain](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rain-Garden.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Oregon State University / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA rain garden is a planted depression that collects rainwater runoff from the surrounding landscapes. For this type of garden, the soil and plants are uniquely selected to absorb the collected water. You can also add local rocks to the rain garden, to set garden borders or just to increase your yard’s visual appeal. In a way, a rain garden lets mother nature do all the watering for us.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to conserving water, here are some key benefits of a rain garden:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Installing a rain garden yourself will cost $3 to $5 per square foot, depending on the materials and plants you use. If you decide to hire a professional, installation may cost between $10 and $15 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sarah Stierch / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you wish a green lawn all year round, artificial grass is the way to go. You won’t have to worry about any damage from your kids running around playing lawn games. Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, synthetic turf doesn’t require any water! Artificial grass can withstand harsh weather conditions, including periods of drought.
\n\n\n\nDespite its high upfront cost, it can be a worthwhile investment and a terrific option for a drought-tolerant landscape.
\n\n\n\nHere are some benefits of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Hiring a professional landscaper to install artificial grass will cost you between $5 and $20 per square foot on average.
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-with-red-bark-mulch.jpg\")
Photo Credit: U. J. Alexander / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSimply put, mulch is an easy and cheap way to keep your garden bed hydrated. If you add some on top of deep-rooted plants with low water needs, you’ll get yourself a drought-tolerant yard. Mulch keeps your plant beds moist during the dry summer heat. You can add organic mulch that benefits the soil, or go for the aesthetically pleasing option with inorganic mulch.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: This depends on which type of mulch you choose. Wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2 cubic foot bag, while landscape gravel costs between $4 to $30 per 0.5 cubic foot bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"Drip](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-Irrigation-Detail.jpg\")
Photo Credit: GrigoriosMoraitis / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDrip irrigation will prevent water being wasted by runoff or evaporated. This installation applies water at the plant root zone where it’s needed the most. Because of this, soil moisture levels are kept at an optimal level. You can apply drip irrigation in your vegetable or perennial garden, even to water shrubs or trees. Overall, it is an efficient and economical way to water your garden.
\n\n\n\nHere are some other benefits of drip irrigation:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Most homeowners pay between $295 and $775 for a drip irrigation system.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-Garden-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: LookTarn / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for an alternative to turfgrasses, look no further than a rock garden. With low water and maintenance needs, a rock garden takes trimming, weeding, and mowing off your to-do list. It features carefully arranged rocks, boulders, or stones. Consider adding succulents or perennial flowers to create a beautiful, colorful, and inviting garden.
\n\n\n\nIf designing a rock garden seems like a back-breaking task, stick to smaller boulders or stones that can easily be moved around. This would allow you to reshape your garden whenever you feel like mixing things up a little.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Rock garden projects will cost you between $600 and $700 on average. To buy and install rocks or boulders yourself, the cost will range from $460 to $1,000, depending on the size and type of rock.
\n\n\n\n![\"Stack](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Stack-of-Brick-Pavers-for-Hardscape.jpg\")
Photo Credit: JPLDesigns / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardscapes are naturally low-maintenance features that are perfect for a drought-tolerant landscape. They are non-living elements that can improve your outdoor space functions. Unsurprisingly, they require no watering, pruning, or fertilizing. It’s great being able to relax with your family and friends around a fire pit, not worrying about countless hours of outdoor chores.
\n\n\n\nThese decorative and practical structures may still require some care, such as basic cleaning. Unless something goes majorly wrong, hardscaping does not require continuous maintenance for long periods of time.
\n\n\n\nHere are some examples of hardscaping for a drought-tolerant yard:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost will depend on the project size and type of feature you choose. Expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,500 for fencing, $370 and $2,235 for a fire pit, $5,055 and $17,275 for an outdoor kitchen.
\n\n\n\n![\"Xeriscaped](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscaped-Front-Yard-with-Dry-Creek-Bed-and-Solar-Lighting.jpg\")
Photo Credit: remedypic / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe’re not following the “save the best for the last” format, but xeriscaping is certainly among the best ideas for a drought-tolerant landscape. Its essential purpose is to use as little water as possible, helping you obtain a low-water and low-maintenance garden. Xeriscaping can help you reduce water bills, cut back on energy consumption, and eliminate chores such as mowing and weeding.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, it can attract beneficial insects and promote biodiversity. For a drought-tolerant landscape, xeriscaping is highly recommended. It can help you create a beautiful and eco-friendly landscape with minimal water consumption.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping can include:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: This depends on the size and type of project. For example, the cost of a groundcover ranges from $10 to $25. On average, homeowners spend between $5 and $20 per square foot on xeriscaping.
\n\n\n\nA drought-tolerant landscape does have financial benefits, but it also supports the local wildlife habitat. Native plants may serve as a valuable food source for many birds and insects, while a rain garden cleans the rainwater before it reaches lakes or rivers.
\n\n\n\nHere are more reasons why every Oklahoma homeowner should opt for a drought-tolerant landscape:
\n\n\n\nIn short, yes. A lot of homeowners think they’re the same concept, but their main difference can be spotted in each of the terms. Using plants as an example, drought-tolerant means they can withstand drought for a limited period only. If they go through months and months without any water, the plants could wither and die.
On the other hand, drought-resistant plants are ones that can go without water for long periods of time. Cacti are great examples of such plants, as we automatically picture them in dry, sunny areas.
Oklahoma lies in the South Central region of the United States, so it should come as no surprise that many parts of the state suffer from drought conditions. Areas northwest of Oklahoma City suffer more than the likes of Lincoln, Pittsburg, or McCurtain Counties.
To monitor the drought map and get weekly updates, you can check Oklahoma’s drought status here.
A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape will still require the occasional upkeep. Nothing major, but just enough to keep all your features in tip-top shape.
Here are simple ways to care for your drought-tolerant yard:
• Yearly mulching
• Water your new plants until they are established
• Aerate your soil yearly
• Trim, prune, and weed when needed
• Test your soil every 3 to 5 years (pH, condition..)
A drought-tolerant landscape has several advantages. It helps you save time, reduce maintenance costs, and keep your area’s climate healthy. Transforming your landscape will result in a more sustainable, cost-effective, and valuable property.
\n\n\n\nThere are many plant species that thrive in the local climate. Explore the best native plants for Oklahoma to freshen up your garden with long-lasting trees and beautiful wildflowers. If your turfgrass is beginning to look grim and patchy, check out the best grass types for Oklahoma and enjoy barbecues on a lush, green lawn.
\n\n\n\nLooking to spend the weekend with your family at the Oklahoma City Zoo? Hire a local lawn care pro to trim the shrubs, mow the lawn, or plant drought-tolerant turfgrass such as Bermudagrass. We have trusted lawn care pros in Oklahoma City, Bixby, Okmulgee, and many other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: MARELBU / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"8 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Oklahoma","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1789c/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/107df/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 320w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/293e9/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 500w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/f2cbb/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 800w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1789c/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 960w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/c26c2/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1dd6e/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/67b76/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 320w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/8df11/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 500w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/98a65/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 800w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1dd6e/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 960w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/3cc96/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Oklahoma","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Get started on a sustainable, low-water, and low-maintenance outdoor living space by exploring 8 drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for Oklahoma."}}},{"node":{"id":"5386c13e-97ec-5bf2-abeb-b39dd9f2f4e5","slug":"worst-backyard-pests-in-cincinnati-and-how-to-control-them","path":"/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/worst-backyard-pests-in-cincinnati-and-how-to-control-them/","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":"cd94a504-1dfc-52f0-ae16-ea162e4c1f6a","name":"Cincinnati","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/"},{"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":"The last thing you want to see is damage caused by annoying backyard pests. Here are a few of the worst in Cincinnati, along with tips on how to control them.
\n","content":"\nYou’ve worked hard and invested time and money to have a beautiful lawn and garden. The last thing you want to see is damage caused by annoying backyard pests. Here are a few of the worst in Cincinnati, along with some tips on how to control them.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/sTj6Eg1yn9nHAv_-kMu4YQ67rmYRw1XWpjuGvJEYDrnpJ9mjRdiA1cb1Wf4mvLbYQSr0aXEOcTx4GD2o1ijal2B3Vu5Y_vVYV27bO_d0nYPXTCpRgoqzbuvUxGMo8-2C2fAXZJJZ\")
Billbugs are grayish-black and have a snout or “bill” on their forehead. Adults live in the thatch layer of your lawn and can do some damage, but the larvae are far worse. Adult females lay their eggs in lawns in June. Within a few weeks, the eggs hatch and the larvae begin feasting on the grass as they move to the soil. You’ll start to see the damage in July or August, with discolored grass and brown patches. You also can easily pull up the grass in infested areas.
\n\n\n\nPrevention can start with varieties of billbug-resistant turf. You can use insecticides to kill the adults in May before they lay their eggs. Billbugs are harder to control when they reach the larval stage, but some newer insecticides have proven effective.
\n\n\n\nNot only do chinch bugs eat your grass; they inject it with their toxic saliva which kills it. The damage shows up as yellow patches in your lawn that eventually turn brown. Chinch bugs love dry grass, so watering your lawn properly can help keep them away. Keeping your grass longer can also help, as can aerating in the spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/vNM5UWNMh4tyNPVmLbp7UhdQjA5cNEumKHPpyGyYnRG4y6aB0XIytq_Sdjmg-lrIOxail0QOrri1CQMu1UrOa2urZtAOfE9U_aX4AN1PkgVluduPqPG3tfpMtJuKeYrtrxszDSqM\")
These pests annoy you, your pets, and even the squirrels in your yard. Fleas are most active in the summer and can inflict painful bites. Mowing the lawn and getting rid of tall overgrown weeds where fleas like to live can help. You can spray pesticide, but for a nontoxic alternative try nematodes. These small wormlike critters eat fleas in their pupae, larvae and pre-adult forms.
\n\n\n\nMosquitoes can make a backyard barbecue truly miserable. They’re annoying and often deadly since they can also spread disease. Females need water sources to lay their eggs, so one way to control them is to remove standing water from your property. Citronella candles, yellow light bulbs and insect repellent can also help. You can also try mosquito repelling plants such as chrysanthemums, basil, lavender, and marigolds.
\n\n\n\nThis pest does its damage in its larval or caterpillar stage. You’ll first notice lawn damage in the spring when larvae start eating the grass. As the larvae get larger you’ll start noticing larger brown spots in your lawn, often near driveways and curbs. Check for sod webworms by digging in the thatch layer, looking for their silk-lined tunnels. To get rid of them, you need to get rid of the larvae, not the adult moths. If you’re using a pesticide, choose one labeled for effectiveness against them. The larvae feed at night so it’s best to spray in the late afternoon.
\n\n\n\nWhite grubs are the larval stage of several types of beetles, including Japanese and chafer beetles. They attack the roots of your grass, which causes yellow then brown patches. The turf becomes spongy and rolls back like carpet because the roots are gone. Adult females lay their eggs in mid-July, and the larvae can start feeding in August. They move deeper into the soil to survive the winter, move back to the surface in spring to pupate into adults. Then the cycle begins again. Pesticides can help get rid of them from July to mid-September, but you should only treat the affected area and not your entire lawn. Natural alternatives include nematodes (see above) or milky spore.
\n\n\n\nMaintaining a healthy lawn is one of the best ways to prevent insect infestation. If you’re replacing or planting new grass, consider perennial ryegrass. This variety stands up well to kids and pets and contains endophytes, a fungus that repels ground-feeding insects. It won’t get rid of all the bugs but will help control the worst backyard pests in Cincinnati.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Cincinnati? Visit our Cincinnati Lawn Care page.
\n","title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Cincinnati and How to Control Them","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3136288998357963,"src":"/static/26d787bc3e5f1858ebe8a3d6c96d9589/f2cbb/mosquito.jpg","srcSet":"/static/26d787bc3e5f1858ebe8a3d6c96d9589/107df/mosquito.jpg 320w,\n/static/26d787bc3e5f1858ebe8a3d6c96d9589/293e9/mosquito.jpg 500w,\n/static/26d787bc3e5f1858ebe8a3d6c96d9589/f2cbb/mosquito.jpg 800w","srcWebp":"/static/26d787bc3e5f1858ebe8a3d6c96d9589/98a65/mosquito.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/26d787bc3e5f1858ebe8a3d6c96d9589/67b76/mosquito.webp 320w,\n/static/26d787bc3e5f1858ebe8a3d6c96d9589/8df11/mosquito.webp 500w,\n/static/26d787bc3e5f1858ebe8a3d6c96d9589/98a65/mosquito.webp 800w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Cincinnati and How to Control Them | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"dc059097-0781-5142-aaaf-839e875bd517","slug":"fire-resistant-landscaping-arizona","path":"/lawn-care/az/fire-resistant-landscaping-arizona/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"A native of Ohio, Whitney Lehnecker is a career journalist and newspaper designer. She now lives in Central Florida with her husband and two pups, Goose and Bindi.","name":"Whitney Lehnecker","id":"a3d49656-3773-5908-9fcf-716640f40233","path":"/author/whitney-lehnecker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6f7e31a20c84b10fb9f62021b69489e7?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"7fc32475-4c73-58a8-996f-8b8d79ba2450","name":"Arizona","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 15th, 2023","excerpt":"Wildfires are a fact of life here in Arizona. And while you can’t stop them from occurring, a really good fire-resistant landscaping strategy will help keep your home safe from serious damage, or even total ruin due to wildfires. Don’t get the wrong idea. There is no such thing as fireproof plants. Plants burn. But […]
\n","content":"\nWildfires are a fact of life here in Arizona. And while you can’t stop them from occurring, a really good fire-resistant landscaping strategy will help keep your home safe from serious damage, or even total ruin due to wildfires.
\n\n\n\nDon’t get the wrong idea. There is no such thing as fireproof plants. Plants burn. But if you select plants that don’t ignite violently, create a buffer zone around your house, and choose your hardscape materials wisely, you remove the fuel that wildfires need to be, well, wild.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/14179765885_c177dccc9d_c-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Oregon Department of Forestry / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nDefensible space is the barrier between your property and the vegetation around it. It slows down or prevents fire from igniting your home. Not just that, but defensible space makes it easy for firefighters to put out the fire without endangering their lives.
\n\n\n\nThe University of Arizona Agricultural Extension Service recommends dividing a property’s defensible space into three zones:
\n\n\n\nZone 1
\n\n\n\nZone 1 extends 30 feet from home and should be free of fire hazards.
\n\n\n\nHere are some guidelines for this zone.
\n\n\n\nZone 2
\n\n\n\nZone 2 extends beyond 30 feet. Here are some guidelines to prepare this zone for fire.
\n\n\n\nZone 3
\n\n\n\nZone 3 extends to your property line. This zone obstructs the fire’s path and keeps the flames on the ground.
\n\n\n\nHere are some tips for this zone.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/gravel-mulch-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Sten Porse / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nMulch helps plants conserve water and reduce weed growth. But choosing the wrong mulch is like adding fuel to the fire.
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulches like gravel, pebbles, and river rocks have great fire resistance. These mulches also look good and require little maintenance.
\n\n\n\nIf you prefer organic mulches, we recommend wood chips as they are the least flammable. In fact, a study by the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension indicates that composted wood chips are the least flammable mulches.
\n\n\n\nAvoid the following mulches:
\n\n\n\n![\"Many](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/nature-plant-meadow-flower-purple-herb-1111339-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nThis term is a bit of a misnomer. No plants are fire-resistant. That is, they all burn and die when exposed to flames. But some plants won’t help spread flames.
\n\n\n\nFire-resistant plants:
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the most fire-resistant plants:
\n\n\n\nBut before you start growing these plants, be sure to plant them correctly.
\n\n\n\nFire travels faster uphill, so if you live on a hill, increase the distance between the plants.
\n\n\n\n| Slope Size | Shrub Distance | Tree Distance |
| Flat to mild slope (less than 20%) | 2 times the shrub’s height | 10 feet |
| Mild to moderate slope (20% to 40%) | 4 times the shrub’s height | 20 feet |
| Moderate to steep slope (greater than 40%) | 6 times the shrub’s height | 30 feet |
Wood fences, pergolas, and gazebos look great, but they quickly catch fire and spread. Metal is a fire-resistant alternative to wood.
\n\n\n\nMetal structures don’t look as classy and elegant as wood, but they are cheaper, more durable, and require less maintenance. Just wash metal structures regularly, and they will last for years without you having to worry about decay, rot, and insects.
\n\n\n\n![\"Chairs](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hardscape.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Rochester Concrete / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are non-living materials added to a landscape design. They can be both decorative and practical, and more importantly, they create non-flammable barriers between a wildfire and your home.
\n\n\n\nHardscapes include:
\n\n\n\nIf you’re in an area prone to wildfires, you obviously shouldn’t use materials like wood for your hardscapes. Instead, use concrete, bricks, and metal to minimize fire spread.
\n\n\n\nInstalling retaining walls around plant beds can prevent flames from reaching the plants. Constructing walkways in between your garden can also slow fire spread.
\n\n\n\nLarger hardscapes like patios, pergolas, and gazebos can create fire-resistant zones around your home. They also help firefighters battle the fire without endangering their lives.
\n\n\n\nArizona is one of the most wildfire-prone states in the country, so it pays to put a little thought into how to protect your home.
\n\n\n\nCreating defensible space, growing fire-resistant plants, applying mulch, building hardscapes, and constructing metal structures can help minimize fire damage. Installing artificial grass can also help slow the advance of a fire.
\n\n\n\nSound like too big a job for one person? Get in touch with Wikilawn’s lawn care pros, who can help you create a yard that is both beautiful and safe.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Yuma, Arizona / Cbl62 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"How Landscaping Can Keep Your Arizona Home Safe From Wildfires","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/1789c/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/107df/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.jpg 320w,\n/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/293e9/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.jpg 500w,\n/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/f2cbb/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.jpg 800w,\n/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/1789c/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.jpg 960w,\n/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/c26c2/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/1dd6e/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/67b76/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.webp 320w,\n/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/8df11/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.webp 500w,\n/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/98a65/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.webp 800w,\n/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/1dd6e/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.webp 960w,\n/static/bdbd0069fd258cc77beaf1b575ca0579/3cc96/1280px-Norton_House_Yuma_AZ.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How Landscaping Can Keep Your Arizona Home Safe From Wildfires | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With some careful planning and the right landscaping, you can minimize the threat of wildfire damage to your Arizona home"}}},{"node":{"id":"dc8184c9-b555-5fd6-9cb0-572b420e5257","slug":"worst-backyard-pests-raleigh-nc","path":"/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/worst-backyard-pests-raleigh-nc/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"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/"},{"id":"960004f5-f837-5b2c-8241-8a86613fdf92","name":"Raleigh","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"Many people move to Raleigh for the mild and short winters. These winters, combined with hot and humid conditions the rest of the year, create the perfect breeding ground for a number of insects. Backyard pests, including the ones that bite, can scare us out of our backyard and into the house. It’s even worse […]
\n","content":"\nMany people move to Raleigh for the mild and short winters. These winters, combined with hot and humid conditions the rest of the year, create the perfect breeding ground for a number of insects.
\n\n\n\nBackyard pests, including the ones that bite, can scare us out of our backyard and into the house. It’s even worse if you suffer allergic reactions to the bites and stings. Knowing what to watch out for, and how to help get rid of these pesky insects, is vital in keeping you and your family safe. Here’s a list of the worst backyard pest in Raleigh and how to control them.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ZTkij3KXZbe4Q85z30z5EYKtvnOqlt8xo5Feh5I4O6pbJ0O-l3B94EsWINd5BzBtlL1KW9P4D5znrVknFoanAQYaeYXckJ_NvGh8O6WKZTxlQzVCeRBSjKEEvXbef6RIZ1_0lIyj\")
Any environment that’s moist and humid will experience the onslaught of mosquitoes. Raleigh is a mosquito magnet and the perfect spot for these backyard pests to both breed and thrive. Mosquitoes are not just a nuisance. They’re the deadliest creature on the planet, spreading diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. At the very least, getting a mosquito bite causes itching for days.
\n\n\n\nHelp keep your backyard free of these bloodsuckers by eliminating standing water in your yard. Bird baths, children’s toys and even uneven ground levels can harbor enough standing water for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Mosquito traps are a good investment since they can kill hundreds of bugs in a single night. Natural guards, like citronella candles work. Even better? Plant insect repelling plants such as lavender, mint and rosemary. The scent of these herbs really bugs bugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IQX6moIurvfeoJqI3695yv3qNrYf1Jn1rGZBT0eapI7LO09GiD-0lFLl_m7MTgrHa-FkdHlthimE9Q7x0ObAPy10jE0vsqPDz45MjRZNaIAYpME0z61dfx98Igi3tvvumDhlLY3i\")
While some of the worst backyard pests are native to the Raleigh area, fire ants are an unwanted visitor that has outstayed its welcome. These pests hitchhiked aboard a cargo ship from Brazil. You’ll know that you have them in the backyard when you see dome-shaped dirt mounds in the yard. Fire ants are reddish-brown and can grow up to one-third of an inch long. North Carolina is being swarmed with these pests, and currently, 71 counties in our area of the state are seeing infestations. If you step on one of their mounds, you’ll see an onslaught of them come out to bite and sting you. could be deadly for small pets and young children who are allergic to the stings.
\n\n\n\nThey’re also attracted to motorized equipment and electrical boxes and can cause thousands of dollars in damage. You can spray the hills with insecticidal spray or use a bait that will kill the ants and their queen from within the mound. You’ll need to continue applying the bait all summer.
\n\n\n\nMost flies around the country are just annoying pests. However, our part of the country has the added issue of biting flies. These flies not only hover around trashy areas, they’re out for blood. Black flies are quite dangerous in our area due to their swarming capabilities. A swarm can quickly cause a lot of damage to both pets and family members.
\n\n\n\nA smaller version of biting flies is biting midges, also called no-see-ums. They’re tough to spot but easy to feel. Biting midges love the warm weather and always seem to show up in time to ruin that backyard party.
\n\n\n\nYour best defense is insect repellant. Wearing light colored and long-sleeved clothing also helps discourage the flies from seeing you as a target. Yard and garden insect sprays help, but only for a few hours. Since they hover around garbage, keep your yard free of trash and debris.
\n\n\n\nWhile mosquitoes and biting flies bug us, they usually leave the garden alone. A gardener’s worst enemies include aphids, Colorado potato bugs, and azalea lace bugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"Aphid,](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/nNCTxw17oL5Bqf4LrvIvQLRtp-bMv6W3-1gF5Rwb0OlXfJJfRtbo6uwv0byQnQqfjtVHp8woPjWmUEfpehPt_oahIrGfRh3MgsG51Q1nP67AUqJifRjJAxOJPGvEIaiEifQFAVCv\")
These yellow and green bugs blend in with the leaves and stems of your plants and suck the sap out of the leaves and fruits. You can get rid of them by introducing ladybugs and lacewings into your garden. Petunias will also repel these pests.
\n\n\n\n![\"Insect,](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/le8D9QQr8zuinv7llVtQ5Mc9d9fLY5HwiDXgZADRE3p97PwuwE8OQjEus-P53Pktl92bcSClSV7Y_eOpw30Z2vuRWTt07ro0Es-tNBzSV1GoEhIZ63J87A619S-iA33jNXx2FhuX\")
These critters look a bit like ladybugs but are extremely destructive to your petunias, potatoes, and tomatoes. Planting cilantro nearby and using a neem oil spray can help keep these bugs at bay.
\n\n\n\nNorth Carolina is home to more than 30 species of lace bugs, and most are not considered pests. The azalea lace bug is the exception since it attacks our native azalea plants. You’ll know you have a problem when you start to see white or silver spots on the leaves. You want to spray the plant with an insecticide at the beginning of spring, just as the females are laying eggs.
\n\n\n\nThese are just a sample of the backyard pests that can ruin your garden and your time outdoors. Plan ahead, and treat your lawn and garden before the worst of the pests arrive in Raleigh.
\n\n\n\nDo you have questions about lawn care and gardening in Raleigh? Visit our Raleigh, NC, lawn care page.
\n","title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Raleigh and How to Control Them","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.8064516129032258,"src":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/0c28a/adult-black-fly.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/107df/adult-black-fly.jpg 320w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/293e9/adult-black-fly.jpg 500w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/0c28a/adult-black-fly.jpg 672w","srcWebp":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/c5ec9/adult-black-fly.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/67b76/adult-black-fly.webp 320w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/8df11/adult-black-fly.webp 500w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/c5ec9/adult-black-fly.webp 672w","sizes":"(max-width: 672px) 100vw, 672px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Raleigh and How to Control Them | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"17a28257-5fd8-5abb-bdd4-3a4896f90707","slug":"best-drought-tolerant-grass-types-southern-california","path":"/lawn-care/ca/best-drought-tolerant-grass-types-southern-california/","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":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 10th, 2023","excerpt":"In the face of frequent droughts, many SoCal homeowners have had to consider their lawns more. Can their turf survive the hot, dry summers without constant irrigation? Brown lawns may seem inevitable, but you don’t have to settle for excessive water waste or dead grass. If you choose one of the best drought-resistant grass types […]
\n","content":"\nIn the face of frequent droughts, many SoCal homeowners have had to consider their lawns more. Can their turf survive the hot, dry summers without constant irrigation?
\n\n\n\nBrown lawns may seem inevitable, but you don’t have to settle for excessive water waste or dead grass. If you choose one of the best drought-resistant grass types for Southern California, you can be more eco-friendly while saving time and money.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nAll turfgrass is categorized into two types: warm-season and cool-season. Warm-season grasses do best in hot southern climates, while cool-season grasses do well in cold northern climates.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are a safe bet for most of Southern California. However, you can use cool-season grasses as long as you don’t live in the Southeastern desert regions of the state. Let’s review the crucial differences to narrow down your options.
\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\nThis warm-season grass has a medium to coarse texture and a gray-green color. Hybrid varieties have a finer texture and a blue-green to dark green color. You can establish bermudagrass from seeds, sod, or plugs.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is resilient in the face of disease, heat, foot traffic, and drought. It will require infrequent irrigation, though it benefits from deep watering to develop a healthy root system. Because of its high salinity tolerance, it makes an excellent lawn for coastal properties. It’s also a good choice for families with playful children and pets.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass ranges from low to high maintenance depending on the variety, with hybrids requiring the most fertilization and mowing. It may spread where it’s not wanted due to its aggressive growth, though edging can help. This grass’ worst enemies are shade and cold weather. It will become more vulnerable to weeds and traffic damage under those conditions.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases like spring dead spot are common; low resistance to insects like bermudagrass mites, dichondra flea beetles, and fiery skippers
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Buffalograss.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Titus Tscharntke / Pixnio / CC0
\n\n\n\nUC Riverside and UC Davis researchers developed the buffalograss cultivar UC Verde to provide more drought-tolerant options for California homeowners. Other varieties can also do well in Southern California, though they may be less drought tolerant. Buffalograss is available in seed, sod, and plug form, while the UC Verde cultivar is only available as plugs.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is low maintenance, requiring little mowing, fertilization, and irrigation. You can mow it every few weeks or leave it unmowed for a meadow-like appearance. Its water needs are less than half of other common grass types, including bermudagrass and tall fescue. Once established, it can hold its own against weeds, diseases, and pests.
\n\n\n\nLike many warm-season grasses, buffalograss doesn’t handle shade or cold weather well. It will turn brown at the first sign of frost or if not watered for long periods in summer. To keep a buffalograss lawn green in winter, use biodegradable green dye or overseed with annual ryegrass. Buffalograss’ light to grayish-green color may not appeal to everyone. The expensive seeds and sod also can be a deterrent.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Very low — best suited for full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Very low, but light use or rare heavy use is OK
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency — once per week or less
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-4 inches or leave unmowed; UC Verde doesn’t grow taller than 4-6 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers soils that aren’t sandy
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Buffalograss often turns brown in winter. Because of its few flowerheads, it produces little pollen and seeds, making it suitable for those with allergies.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Kikuyugrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose, Macleay Grass Man / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis East African grass has a coarse texture and light green color, similar to St. Augustinegrass. Though it is not a common turfgrass choice in California, kikuyugrass has gained popularity over the years.
\n\n\n\nThis low-maintenance grass isn’t very susceptible to disease. It thrives in moderate temperatures but also can handle heat and drought. You can plant kikuyugrass in moderate shade and low-fertility soils. Its aggressive growth allows it to recover from wear and tear quickly.
\n\n\n\nWhy isn’t kikuyugrass more popular for lawns? Due to its aggressive growth, this grass is considered a weed in many parts of coastal and inland California. Its rapid growth makes it prone to thatch, making mowing difficult. You’ll need to mow frequently to keep up with growth and avoid scalping damage. Remember that kikuyugrass is susceptible to cold and will go dormant in winter.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes and stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-1.5; it’s vulnerable to scalping damage if it isn’t mowed frequently
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Fertile, moderately drained soils with a light to medium texture; can tolerate low fertility
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This grass type is native to East Africa and was imported to California to help with erosion. Its aggressive growth makes it more resilient but makes many consider it a weed. It develops thatch easily.
\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\nNative to Asia, Zoysiagrass is dark green with a fine to medium texture. It creates a dense, prickly turf once established.
\n\n\n\nThis low-maintenance grass is well-adapted to warm climates. Not only can it survive drought and high heat, but it also holds up well to foot traffic. The only major pest it deals with is nematodes. It will require little fertilizer and a moderate amount of mowing. Though Zoysiagrass prefers full sun, you can plant it in a yard with partial shade.
\n\n\n\nOne downside of Zoysiagrass is its slow establishment. As a result, many homeowners choose to skip seeds and use Zoysiagrass sod or sprigs. Its density also poses a challenge, making it difficult to mow. Zoysiagrass lawns become dormant in winter, but you can improve their color with fall fertilization.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Not prone to disease and insects; good disease tolerance overall; watch out for nematodes
\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: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if the grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agrostis_pallens_turf.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ruff tuff cream puff / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nThough there are many types of bentgrass, it’s no surprise that California native bentgrass is well adapted to drought conditions. This species is also called seashore bentgrass, thingrass, or Agrostis pallens. It has uniform growth, a medium texture, and deep green color. Some consider it a turfgrass alternative, but you can still make it into a traditional lawn.
\n\n\n\nSeashore bentgrass requires half the water of typical cool-season grasses and can stay green year-round. Its self-repairing rhizomes allow it to bounce back from damage. This grass naturally grows from around 4 to 28 inches. You can cut it short or keep it long for a meadow-like appearance. Remember, you can’t go straight from shaggy lawn to close-cut turf, or you could damage the grass. Lower the height gradually if you want to switch.
\n\n\n\nBecause of its slow establishment and growth rate, seashore bentgrass sod is expensive. As the name suggests, this grass type is best suited for coastal areas. It doesn’t do well in the central valley or the California deserts.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low; you can mow it or let it grow out
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-8
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Any soil with good drainage
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This grass can be mowed or left long and meadow-like. It is best suited for coastal areas.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis cool-season grass is one of the most common lawn grasses in California. Tall fescue is dark green with a moderate to coarse texture. Turf-type tall fescues and dwarf turf-type tall fescues are shorter with a finer texture.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is generally low-maintenance, with little watering required. Sow densely for a uniform lawn and good weed and disease resistance. It also handles moderate traffic well. Tall fescue will stay green in warm and cool weather if neither is too extreme. It handles heat and drought stress well due to its extensive root system. Plant it in the sun or partial shade.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue’s bunch-type growth pattern means it won’t repair bare patches on its own. Reseed thin or patchy lawns to improve their appearance and performance. Though it does well in many parts of the state, it’s unsuitable for high-altitude areas.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate, but low ability to recuperate from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Fast rate of growth, so plan to mow often
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-4 inches (many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side); do not mow less than 1.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate under proper management conditions
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Fertile, good drainage, but will tolerate a wider range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Reseed every few years to repair bare spots and thinning; don’t plant old varieties such as Kentucky-31; look for “turf-type” tall fescue (TTTF). Seed blends with more than one TTTF cultivar give the best chance for a strong lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe best no-mow grass types are UC Verde buffalograss and native California bentgrass. You can let either grow out into a natural-looking meadow. If you revert to a shorter height, gradually bring the mowing height down and never cut off more than one-third of the grass’ blade at once.
If you want traffic tolerance, the most durable grass types are bermudagrass, kikuyugrass, and Zoysiagrass. Each can handle playful dogs, energetic children, and backyard parties without falling into ruin. Remember that all grass types can be damaged with excessive or rough use. However, these grass types stand the best chance of resistance and recovery.
The best grass types for full sun are bermudagrass, buffalograss, and native California bentgrass. These types prefer full sun and may not do well in the shade. Zoysiagrass also does well in full sun, but it will tolerate more shade than the others.
A water-efficient lawn is only one component of drought-resistant landscaping. When paired with plants native to Southern California, your yard could save you water, time, and money. It also will be more fire-resistant.
\n\n\n\nIf you need assistance revamping your lawn or other landscaping, let Wikilawn connect you with local pros. You can find lawn care and landscaping companies in Long Beach, Santa Ana, Riverside, and many more SoCal cities.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: UCLA / Josh Lee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"6 Best Drought-Tolerant Grass Types for Southern California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/1789c/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/107df/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/293e9/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/f2cbb/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/1789c/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/c26c2/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/1dd6e/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/67b76/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/8df11/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/98a65/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/1dd6e/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/a890c81868ffc23742a573d3abfce348/3cc96/UCLA_Campus_on_lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Drought-Tolerant Grass Types for Southern California | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best drought-tolerant grass types for Southern California are bermudagrass, buffalograss, kikuyugrass, Zoysiagrass, native bentgrass, and tall fescue."}}}],"postCity":{}}}}