![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/4608457413_921dff2b0e_c-2.jpg\")
With large seasonal changes in temperature, you don’t want to spend hours taking care of your lawn’s maintenance needs. Michigan’s humid summer months and harsh winters can make it difficult to get things done. With low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, you will worry less about yard maintenance and more about the Wolverines beating the Ohio […]
\n","content":"\nWith large seasonal changes in temperature, you don’t want to spend hours taking care of your lawn’s maintenance needs. Michigan’s humid summer months and harsh winters can make it difficult to get things done. With low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, you will worry less about yard maintenance and more about the Wolverines beating the Ohio State Buckeyes.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Rachel Kramer / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAdding mulch to your flower or garden beds is a simple way to start your low-maintenance landscaping project. Mulch is used to retain moisture in the soil, keep it cool, and suppress weeds. Overall, it can make your garden bed look more attractive.
\n\n\n\nThere are two types of mulch for you to choose from, depending on your landscape preferences.
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The amount you spend on mulch depends on which type you choose. For example, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2 cubic foot bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/48860292107_f132194844_k-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Garry Knight / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you add native plants to your garden, you can sit back and watch them thrive with nothing to worry about. They are adapted to Michigan’s climate and need very little care to survive. They help preserve the local ecosystem and serve as a valuable food source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other small mammals. Despite minimal watering and fertilizing needs, Michigan’s native plants may still require the occasional pruning.
\n\n\n\nBelow are some low-maintenance plants to consider:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on the plant’s type and size, expect to pay between $600 and $3,000 per flower bed, $25 and $50 per shrub, $150 and $3,000 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Serviceberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTired of buying new plants every year? That is the problem with annuals, so consider replacing them with perennial plants. They thrive in Michigan’s climate, can live for several years, and require little maintenance once established. Some native perennials will grow to provide lots of shade, so you may sip on those afternoon cocktails and enjoy your outdoor living space.
\n\n\n\nHere are some suggestions:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of perennials depends on the plant’s size and type. On average, a perennial plant will cost you between $10 and $100.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Geranium_maculatum_11zz.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGroundcovers native to Michigan can be a valuable addition to your low-maintenance landscape. These low-growing plants add color and fragrance to your lawn, with no mowing required. By replacing grassy areas, groundcovers will help you spend less time on watering and other maintenance needs.
\n\n\n\nExamples of groundcovers suitable for Michigan include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on which type you choose, a groundcover will typically cost you between $4 and $40.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to native plants, hardscapes are naturally low-maintenance landscaping features. It can be any type of decorative or practical structure in your front or back yard. Hardscape features will not require any watering, pruning, or fertilizing.
\n\n\n\nHowever, some installations may still require the occasional upkeep. If you lack experience, consulting or hiring a pro will help you choose the right features for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nExamples of hardscaping include the following:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost depends on the project size and the type of feature you choose. Expect to pay between $1,140 and $3,690 for a water feature, $2,600 and $7,300 for a patio, $2,000 and $4,500 for fencing.
\n\n\n\n![\"Native](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeremy Levine / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nXeriscaping is a cost-effective idea that helps you obtain a low-water and low-maintenance garden. It aims to use very little water while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and eco-friendly landscape. Xeriscaping is also wildlife-friendly, attracting beneficial insects, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of low-maintenance xeriscaping include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, the cost of xeriscaping ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-Turf.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor a year-round green lawn, replacing your traditional turf with artificial grass is the way to go. Over the years, it has become a very popular low-maintenance landscaping option. It has a very life-like appearance, withstands heavy foot traffic, and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of hiring a pro to install artificial grass ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot on average.
\n\n\n\nGiven Michigan’s climate, it is no surprise that cool-season grasses dominate the list for the area’s best turfgrasses. You will still need to consider your soil type and maintenance preferences before choosing the right grass for your Michigan yard.
Kentucky bluegrass is perfect for high-traffic lawns due to its quick recovery from wear and tear. On the other hand, chewing fescue is a fine fescue cultivar that is ideal for shady lawns. Tall fescue is another cool-season grass that can tolerate heat better than others.
To learn more about the grasses that thrive in your region, check out our guide on the best grass types for Michigan.
Ornamental grasses add a natural feel to your landscape. They can be used in groups or specimens, and most types are happy without supplemental water. They only need to be cut back once a year, ideally in spring.
Here are some examples of ornamental grasses for your Michigan landscape:
• Feather reed grass
• Tufted hair grass
• Blue oats grass
• Japanese silver grass
Succulents that are suitable to grow in Michigan will generally survive during the winter. However, below freezing temperatures for long periods can harm the succulents. These plants store water in their stems and leaves, meaning they could die as the water freezes inside them.
Even the best low-maintenance landscape requires the occasional upkeep. For minimal yard work, you can hire a landscaping company to mow your lawn and maintain your garden beds. Experienced pros also know how to maintain hardscape, irrigation systems, and other features in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a lawn care pro near you to handle the lawn’s mowing, trimming, and edging, we have trusted professionals in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Spring Lake, and many more cities across Michigan.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Gateway Garden, Matthaei Botanical Gardens / Dwight Burdette / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"7 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Michigan","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1789c/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/107df/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 320w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/293e9/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 500w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/f2cbb/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 800w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1789c/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 960w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/c26c2/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1dd6e/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/67b76/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 320w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/8df11/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 500w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/98a65/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 800w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/1dd6e/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 960w,\n/static/fc52c6d591fdc03fffd1c31bbe57d1bb/3cc96/Gateway-Garden-Matthaei-Botanical-Gardens-1800-Dixboro-Road-Superior-Township-Michigan.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Michigan","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With 7 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Michigan, reduce the amount of yard work and enjoy family trips to Tahquamenon Falls."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"65ccb380-9bca-50b9-aeb7-dd9fb8a3f6fe","slug":"best-native-plants-peoria","path":"/lawn-care/il/peoria/best-native-plants-peoria/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Most comfortable with soil under her fingernails, Amanda has an enthusiasm for gardening, agriculture, and all things plant-related. With a master's degree in agriculture and more than a decade of experience gardening and tending to her lawn, she combines her plant knowledge and knack for writing to share what she knows and loves.","name":"Amanda Shiffler","id":"458fa7a4-b709-56ae-8d79-9dc400e34ff1","path":"/author/amanda-shiffler/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0048ef20c97263b5f26951aa210d62c8?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"51e1f258-c2e9-5d28-83c3-bb7bc475352c","name":"Illinois","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/il/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"7424e8c1-74fb-5607-a946-d87b0be13097","name":"Peoria","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/il/peoria/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"The big-hearted town of Peoria in the middle of Illinois has wide appeal. Sitting right on the banks of the Illinois River, Peoria has a picturesque backdrop that many cities can only dream of. When you find yourself putting down roots in a city that one national publication dubbed one of the Top 50 Best […]
\n","content":"\nThe big-hearted town of Peoria in the middle of Illinois has wide appeal. Sitting right on the banks of the Illinois River, Peoria has a picturesque backdrop that many cities can only dream of.
\n\n\n\nWhen you find yourself putting down roots in a city that one national publication dubbed one of the Top 50 Best Places to Live, you might as well embrace the area and landscape your property with native plants. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of the best native plants for Peoria and the surrounding areas.
\n\n\n\nIncluded in this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PumpkinSky / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurple coneflower resembles daisies, but this native beauty has a large center cone that stands well above the dry, papery petals. It is the most popular type of coneflower grown and one of the first native wildflowers to jump into mainstream horticulture.
\n\n\n\nThis beautiful plant looks stunning when planted en masse and creates a soothing rustle when the papery petals brush up against one another in the breeze. Flowers appear between mid to late summer, and when deadheaded, purple coneflowers may gift you a second round of blooms before the season ends.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green, rough texture
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full to part sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Fertile loam; tolerates clay if dry
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need more during dry periods)
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Japanese beetles, leaf spot, aster yellows disease
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Cardinal](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cardinal-Flower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: linnaeus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe sensational cardinal flower blooms for about a month in late summer, displaying brilliant red flowers that attract hummingbirds and swallowtail butterflies to your garden. Plants get their common name from the bright red robes traditionally worn by Roman Catholic cardinals.
\n\n\n\nThese plants are excellent choices for wet areas in your yard. They naturally occur in wetlands and thrive in full sun and light shade. They aren’t long-lived perennial species, but they self-seed prolifically, so you’ll always have a cluster of cardinal flowers bringing color to your yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green,
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full to part sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Loamy, rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Keep the soil consistently moist
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Snails, slugs
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nContrary to its name, milkweed isn’t considered a noxious weed anywhere in the United States. This tough wildflower is the only host plant for the endangered monarch butterfly, making it an essential aspect of native habitats.
\n\n\n\nMilkweeds were once widespread across the prairies of the Midwest, but habitat destruction has severely reduced the plant’s range and numbers. Thankfully, gardeners are increasingly adding them back into their landscapes. They are loved, of course, for bringing in the bold, beautiful monarchs but also appreciated for their fragrant, purplish-pink flowers that appear in late spring or early summer.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be mindful that milkweed sap contains alkaloids that irritate everything except the monarch butterfly.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 24 to 30 inches
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green with fine, soft hairs
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-draining
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall; may need more during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Large or small milkweed bugs, swamp milkweed beetles, blue or red milkweed beetles, milkweed aphids, and furry milkweed tussock moth caterpillar
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Cause eye and skin irritations and are poisonous to pets when ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susans are among the most easily recognized flowering perennials and a favorite of gardeners. These tough-as-nails plants also look like daisies, with their center discs in deep, rich hues and bright yellow to orangish, oblong petals.
\n\n\n\nAs members of the sunflower family, black-eyed Susans thrive in rocky, infertile soils where most other plants can’t survive. Between this, and their heat and drought tolerance, it’s no wonder you often see them blanketing roadside ditches and open fields across the country.
\n\n\n\nBe careful when planting them, though. They spread aggressively through underground stems called rhizomes and prolific self-sowing. Their spreading is excellent if you want to fill in a flowerbed, but it can be problematic when planted close to other plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Bright green with coarse hairs
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained, not too rich
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil dries out
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Aphids, slugs, snails, powdery mildew, aster yellows, Southern blight, downy mildew, rust
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3912256151_865e2a4b51_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSwitchgrass is an important native prairie grass that grows well in any soil type and under any moisture level. Their low maintenance needs have given them solid standing as landscaping plants. Growing upwards of six feet tall, they work well as background plantings in flower beds, hedges, or privacy screens.
\n\n\n\nDifferent varieties offer you a variety of foliage colors. Switchgrass plants are available with reddish-tinged, steel-blue, or metallic blue-green foliage that takes on a golden glow come autumn. Seed heads are pinkish early in the season and fade into a reddish-brown to add even more interest to fall landscapes.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Perennial bunchgrass
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 2 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green with a prominent midrib
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained, not too rich
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week the first year, then only during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Very few
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Purpletop\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Purpletop.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joanna Boisse / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurpletop is a native warm-season ornamental bunchgrass. It grows individually or in tufts and frequently in ditch banks alongside the road. Come late summer, it puts out flower spikes with reddish-purple seed heads that bring rich color to the landscape into November. It’s often called grease grass; the seed heads are covered in an oily, sticky substance.
\n\n\n\nThis native grass does well in part shade and even in moist conditions, making purpletop a fantastic choice for growing under the canopy of larger trees or as a foundation plant against your home.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Perennial bunchgrass
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green, rough
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Adapted to all types
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week the first year, then only during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Very few
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Bottlebrush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bottlebrush-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: I, SB Johnny / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBottlebrush is a cool-season grass that likes cooler temps and grows abundantly during the spring and fall. It’s one of the few native plants on this list that is shade-tolerant and prefers a wooded area over full sun. Plant it under your big oak trees, where it receives a little bit of dappled light to add tremendous interest and texture.
\n\n\n\nThe tall grass has a unique spike arrangement that sets atop bright green blades, making it easily recognizable. As its name states, the spikelets resemble a large-bristled brush used for cleaning bottles. Over time, bottlebrush grass reseeds itself to form small colonies of plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Cool-season perennial grass
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 feet
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Blue-green to grey-green, mostly hairless
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Part shade to shade
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Loamy, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week the first year, then only during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Aphids, leaf spot
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Shooting](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shooting-Star.jpg\")
Photo Credit: C T Johansson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShooting star plants are a spring ephemeral—a plant that is in full glory in spring but then fades into the background—so they add glorious color to your early-season landscape. This charming native plant has pink, purple, or white flowers resembling shooting stars streaking across the night sky.
\n\n\n\nAlso known as prairie pointer, the shooting star used to grow abundantly through moist wooded areas or rocky slopes in cooler climates. Now it is frequently grown as a garden ornamental and, in 1993, received the Royal Horticulture Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 9 to 20 inches
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 9 to 12 inches
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Emerald to grayish green with a prominent midrib
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Partial shade, will tolerate full sun in cooler climates
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Rocky or sandy, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about 1 inch of water per week when flowering, less during the summer
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Very few
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: none
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Smoke.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner from USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe prairie smoke plant is one of the earliest spring bloomers on the prairie, and it brings a delicate, unique look when planted in your yard. In late spring, each flowering stem bears clusters of nodding, feathery pink, maroon, or purple bell-shaped flowers in clusters of three to nine. Once fertilized, the nodding blooms transform into arrays of wispy pink, feathery blooms.
\n\n\n\nPrairie smoke forms a colorful ground cover resembling delicate puffs of smoke from your planting beds. Plants don’t like to be overcrowded by taller perennials, so give them at least 18-24 inches of space.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 6 to 18 inches
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 6 to 12 inches
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen, deeply cut margins
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Tolerant of types, as long as well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs about inch of water per week when flowering, less during the summer
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Great](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Great-Blue-Lobelia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGreat blue lobelia is perfect if you’re looking for a rough, hardy perennial that brings late summer color to your yard. This easy-to-grow native perennial blooms gorgeous, light icy-blue blooms in late summer, drawing in a crowd of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nPlants thrive in moist garden spots and grow well in damp clay soils where other plants struggle. They will grow in sunny places if plenty of moisture is present. When grown in its favored spot of shaded, moist areas, great blue lobelia will gladly spread and multiply to bring you dozens of new plants each spring.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 12 to 18 inches
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green, somewhat coarse
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Sun, part shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Keep soil moist
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Snails, slugs
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic if ingested in large quantities
\n\n\n\nAll the plants mentioned above are native to Peoria and, in theory, should do well in your yard. However, it is crucial to consider some things when choosing plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nIs your yard in full sun, or are you planting in partial or full-shade spots?
\n\n\n\nAre you looking to plant in full sun, partial shade, or full shade? Or trying to find a plant that will do well in mixed conditions? You always want to match the sun exposure to the plant’s needs. A plant that needs full sun will struggle in the shade, and vice versa. Since Peoria has a varied climate and plenty of trees, this list contains a nice mix of plants that thrive in different conditions.
\n\n\n\nWhat kind of soil are you working with?
\n\n\n\nLike sun exposure, it’s also critical to consider the soil in your landscape. The soil type directly affects water retention and drainage. It wouldn’t be wise to put a plant needing well-draining soil in a planting spot with heavy clay that holds water. You must also pay special attention to the specific planting area, as your yard can have anomalies with slightly different soil textures.
\n\n\n\nWhat size space are you working with?
\n\n\n\nIt’s always a challenge when buying new plants because they tend to look so small for the space you’re working with. Remember, though, you should always consider a plant’s mature size, not how big it is, when you purchase it. Over time that plant will grow, and you don’t want to buy something that will be too large for the space after a few years.
\n\n\n\nWhen buying native plants to add to your landscape, it’s always helpful if you can buy them locally. Not only does it support local businesses, but these plants are also usually propagated from parents acclimated to your climate, so they are better equipped to survive your seasons.
\n\n\n\nDreaming of a yard filled with native plants but overwhelmed with choices or trying to figure out what’s best for your yard? Reach out to our Peoria lawn care pros! Our experts are ready and looking forward to helping you make your landscape dreams come true.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Pettingill-Morron House / Mmikhailova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"Best Native Plants for Peoria, Il","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/1789c/Pettingill-Morron-House.jpg","srcSet":"/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/107df/Pettingill-Morron-House.jpg 320w,\n/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/293e9/Pettingill-Morron-House.jpg 500w,\n/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/f2cbb/Pettingill-Morron-House.jpg 800w,\n/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/1789c/Pettingill-Morron-House.jpg 960w,\n/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/c26c2/Pettingill-Morron-House.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/1dd6e/Pettingill-Morron-House.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/67b76/Pettingill-Morron-House.webp 320w,\n/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/8df11/Pettingill-Morron-House.webp 500w,\n/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/98a65/Pettingill-Morron-House.webp 800w,\n/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/1dd6e/Pettingill-Morron-House.webp 960w,\n/static/428c910e7ea0b6eeb944d31ce69ac369/3cc96/Pettingill-Morron-House.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Native Plants for Peoria","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Looking for low-maintenance plants for your Peoria landscape? We’ve pulled together a list of the best native plants for your area."}}},{"node":{"id":"e8b5c6f2-0d05-5c19-abd1-95b7678080fd","slug":"drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-for-wyoming","path":"/lawn-care/wyoming/drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-for-wyoming/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lydian Pine is a creative writer and studio artist whose work first debuted in a short story anthology. She graduated from the University of North Texas in 2020 and enjoys video games, theatre, and swimming. Lately, she has started to study entomology as a hobby.","name":"Lydian Pine","id":"3478d9b1-e85b-5e4a-860b-443c62d1e29c","path":"/author/lydian-pine/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f31ce7919bd939bc1f102cee2f3304d2?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"01f78449-8135-5644-8596-d22109013057","name":"Wyoming","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wyoming/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"We rarely compare Wyoming to South Africa or Mongolia, but all three steppe locations have almost identical climates and soil. Wyoming’s arid climate requires drought-resistant landscaping to reduce irrigation strains. We have gathered 9 drought-resistant landscaping ideas for your Wyoming landscape to help conserve water and create a low-maintenance oasis. In this article, we will […]
\n","content":"\nWe rarely compare Wyoming to South Africa or Mongolia, but all three steppe locations have almost identical climates and soil. Wyoming’s arid climate requires drought-resistant landscaping to reduce irrigation strains. We have gathered 9 drought-resistant landscaping ideas for your Wyoming landscape to help conserve water and create a low-maintenance oasis.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDrought-tolerant landscaping requires very little water to remain green. Creating a drought-resistant, or water-efficient landscape, conserves water and reduces maintenance.
\n\n\n\nDrought-tolerant plants have adapted to arid conditions and have low watering requirements. Conserving water helps preserve the ecosystem. Most Montana native plant species are drought-tolerant options that require minimal supplemental irrigation once established.
\n\n\n\n![\"Xeriscaped](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/xeriscape-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: InCommunicado / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping focuses on low-maintenance landscaping with an emphasis on water conservation. The practice involves creating a beautiful home landscape that requires no watering except natural rainfall.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping often relies on strategically placed indigenous plants that survive off rainfall, even in Wyoming’s dry, windy climate. Native plants and turfgrasses are a great water-wise option for xeriscaping your yard. They are naturally drought resistant and adapted to harsh seasonal shifts. Besides native plants, some basic steps for xeriscaping your yard include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional xeriscaping costs between $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on many factors like plant selection and the size of your yard. While upfront costs may seem high, you will save around $0.36 per square foot annually on water and maintenance costs.
\n\n\n\n![\"purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rsz_purple_coneflowers_echinacea_purpurea_19421755650-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrew C / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMost Wyoming native plants are perennials, bouncing back year after year, creating a low-maintenance landscape. Natives are adapted to Wyoming’s arid conditions, shifting temperatures, and local pests and diseases. Specimens are low-maintenance and attract local pollinators like hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Wyoming native plants to choose from, including:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: 2020Noe / Pixabay / License
\n\n\n\nSome grass types are more drought-resistant than others. Wyoming’s harsh climate requires a cool-season, drought-tolerant turfgrass that can survive the cold winters. Wyoming’s climate is classified as arid and continental, with extreme sunlight and shifting temperatures.
\n\n\n\nDrought-resistant Wyoming grasses include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of drought-resistant turfgrass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional seeding or re-seeding typically costs between $700 to $1,850, depending on the size of your lawn and the seed cultivar you select. If you opt for sod installation, which takes less time to mature, you can expect to spend between $6,650 to $13,700.
\n\n\n\n![\"Mulch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mulchy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: eyecrave / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nMulching is a low-cost DIY job and essential to xeriscaping. Mulch helps plants keep moisture and protects their roots from extreme temperatures. There are two types of mulch: organic and inorganic mulch.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Inorganic mulches are more durable and low-maintenance but do not offer additional nutrients. It is important to note you will need to replace organic mulches like wood chips annually with a fresh layer.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of mulch are:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Mulch costs between $15 to $75 per cubic yard or around $2 to $6 per bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"leaks](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Irrigation_drip_leaks.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sciencehacker / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nDrip irrigation lines conserve water and are more efficient than traditional sprinklers, rotating sprayer heads, or garden hoses. Drip irrigation systems slowly deliver water directly to plant roots. They are installed underground or on the soil’s surface.
\n\n\n\nExperts can retrofit your existing automatic sprinkler system for drip irrigation. For a portable option, opt for a soaker hose you can move from bed to bed.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of drip irrigation:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional drip irrigation installation costs between $1.50 to $4.75 per square foot. Installing a drip irrigation system in a 500-square-foot zone typically costs between $750 to $2,400.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rain-barrel.jpg\")
Photo Credit: zerocattle / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nHarvest rainwater for later use by installing a rain barrel station on your landscape. Place the rain barrel beneath a downspout. Many homeowners blend the rain barrel into the surrounding landscape by decorating the area with plants or rocks.
\n\n\n\nFor every inch of rain that falls on one square foot of your roof, your rain barrel harvests 0.6 gallons of water. A rain barrel system attached to a 100-square-foot roof collects up to 60 gallons of water after one inch of rain.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a rain barrel system:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: A 50-gallon rain barrel typically costs between $100 to $150, depending on the material.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rain](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/52313269453_df788863db_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alabama Extension / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nRain gardens are small, shallow depressions that contain deep-rooted native plants. They are not only attractive but also conserve water. Rain gardens lower the risk of flooding and provide erosion control by reducing runoff. They naturally capture stormwater and filter out pollutants.
\n\n\n\nSome popular rain garden Wyoming plants include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a rain garden:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: A DIY rain garden costs between $3 to $5 per square foot, while professional installation costs between $10 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/28197524409_9c17d5a099_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Antífama / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nInstall stones and rocks to create an elegant rock garden or pathways. This simple DIY job does not have to cost a penny. Rock gardens are a great way to show off native Wyoming elements. Accentuate your rock garden with ornamental plants, water features, and more.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a rock garden:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Rock garden installation costs between $400 to $1,000, depending on the size and materials.
\n\n\n\n![\"landscape-path-pathway-grass-lawn-walkway\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_landscape-path-pathway-grass-lawn-walkway-1149050-pxherecom.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nTurfgrass requires a lot of water to remain green. Limiting the turfgrass area of your landscape reduces its overall watering requirements. Consider replacing sections of your grass with sustainable hardscaping elements.
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are man-made features, including:
\n\n\n\nHardscapes do not require watering, pruning, or mowing. In fact, they don’t require maintenance at all except for an annual cleaning. Be prepared. Hardscapes are an expensive upfront investment, but they increase your home’s value and curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Be prepared to spend around $7,500 for a new deck, $4,000 for a patio, $850 for a fire pit, and $3,000 for a flagstone walkway.
\n\n\n\nSome strategies to minimize water usage in your landscape include:
● Install efficient irrigation, including drip lines and a smart controller with a rain sensor
● Group plants with similar watering needs
● Mulch your flower beds to reduce evaporation
● Practice good soil management techniques to improve moisture retention
Many established drought-tolerant plants can survive for several months without water. Factors affecting your plant’s ability to survive long drought periods include:
● Plant species
● Climate
● Soil type
● Plant health and maturity
The first step to a healthy, drought-tolerant landscape is good soil management practices. Follow some of these tips to help maintain healthy plant roots:
● Send a soil sample in for testing annually
● Add compost and organic matter to increase fertility and drainage
● Apply mulch
● Practice proper watering to avoid under or over watering
● Reduce soil erosion with windbreaks, retaining walls, or specialized plants
● Minimize chemicals
Yard work in Wyoming can feel like thankless work when there are so many chores to complete. Let Wikilawn connect you with a local lawn care pro to take care of your yard chores, so you can spend more time enjoying your outdoor space.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pancaketom / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"9 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Wyoming","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/1789c/devils-tower-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/107df/devils-tower-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/293e9/devils-tower-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/f2cbb/devils-tower-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/1789c/devils-tower-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/c26c2/devils-tower-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/1dd6e/devils-tower-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/67b76/devils-tower-1.webp 320w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/8df11/devils-tower-1.webp 500w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/98a65/devils-tower-1.webp 800w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/1dd6e/devils-tower-1.webp 960w,\n/static/6a7ae9732b5e2e9d1deb237aa6056138/3cc96/devils-tower-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Wyoming | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Create beauty and sustainability in your Wyoming yard with drought-resistant landscaping ideas that thrive in water scarcity."}}},{"node":{"id":"7b5a68ed-1cba-5219-8ff1-1581ee03aef7","slug":"best-native-plants-durham","path":"/lawn-care/nc/durham/best-native-plants-durham/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"3c4f0f7e-d959-5ea1-9a84-f914bbb6828f","name":"Durham","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/durham/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"April 11th, 2023","excerpt":"You can admire Durham’s captivating native plants in local forests and parks, but why not also grow them in your own yard? Not only will they be a beautiful addition to your property, but they’re good for the environment and easier to care for than non-natives. Read on to find out more about native plants […]
\n","content":"\nYou can admire Durham’s captivating native plants in local forests and parks, but why not also grow them in your own yard? Not only will they be a beautiful addition to your property, but they’re good for the environment and easier to care for than non-natives.
\n\n\n\nRead on to find out more about native plants that work well in your Durham yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t already have native plants growing in your garden, it’s time to make the switch. Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil, and they’re beneficial in numerous ways. For example:
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Highbush_blueberries.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ryjial Christianson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAs you may have guessed, the highbush blueberry isn’t just a feast for the eyes. The plant’s bell-shaped blossoms give way to delicious blueberries that are perfect for snacking. Moreover, the highbush blueberry provides food for wildlife. In fact, watch out; once your blueberries ripen, birds may like them so much that you need to cover them with netting.
\n\n\n\nBlueberries take about 6 to 8 years to fully mature, but you can plant different cultivars together to increase your berry yield. If you want optimal growth, use acidic soil and remove spent flowers regularly. Starting in the third year after planting, prune your blueberry plant as needed. Laying organic mulch is also beneficial for your highbush blueberries to grow healthy.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Edible shrub
Hardiness zones: 3 to 8
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: High (1 inch of water per week)
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy; acidic, organically rich, well-drained, medium to wet
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 12 feet
Potential hazards: None known
![\"3,4](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3890892940_425fc87659_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: RHal4D / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nRiver birch, also called water birch, black birch, and red birch, can be a beautiful addition to your landscape the whole year round. This tree can reach 60 feet at maturity, and, because it naturally grows along riverbanks, it thrives in wet weather. However, it handles periods of drought relatively well, too.
\n\n\n\nYou can help your river birch tree stay hydrated by giving it a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch. The best time to trim the tree is in late spring or early fall. Don’t prune in spring when its sap is running.
\n\n\n\nNote that the tree has toxic effects if any part of it is consumed.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
Hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet, moist, acidic, fertile; tolerates drier soils and poor drainage
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 30 to 60 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red_maple_leaves.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Heng Wang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe red maple is notorious for its samaras, sometimes called “helicopter seeds.” These winged seeds spin when they fall from the tree, creating a fun and unique display. The tree is also the first to bloom in spring and change color in the fall, making it a showy addition to your yard throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it will take a number of years, the tree can grow up to as high as 120 feet in full sun or partial shade. The tree tolerates many kinds of soil, but to retain moisture and keep your red maple healthy, you should lay a layer of mulch.
\n\n\n\nHowever, take note that the red maple is highly toxic to humans and animals, especially its leaves and bark. If you have children or pets, make sure they don’t ingest any part of the tree.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
Hardiness zones: 2 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet, well-drained; tolerant of various soils but prefers moist, slightly acidic soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 40 to 120 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Rhododendron_atlanticum_-_Rendeux_9c_1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe coastal azalea forms a dense hedge, creating privacy and curb appeal. It has fragrant flowers that are a magnet for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Depending on the variety and your soil type, your coastal azalea may grow up to 8 feet tall, but it usually grows up to 2 to 3 feet tall.
\n\n\n\nYou should ideally provide your azalea with consistent moisture, but make sure that your soil is well-draining to avoid root rot. Because most of Durham has clay-heavy Utisol soil, it’s advisable to plant your azalea in a raised flower bed.
\n\n\n\nTo keep your azalea looking its best, clip off its spent flower clusters after bloom. Mulching can help the soil retain moisture and manage its temperature. Full sun exposure can damage the plant, so make sure you provide it with the right amount of shade.
\n\n\n\nTake note: azaleas are severely toxic. Don’t eat any part of the plant, and make sure children and pets stay away from it.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering shrub
Hardiness zones: 1 to 8 (some may grow shorter, depending on variety and soil type)
Sun: Partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Light, acidic, sandy, well-drained; tolerates well-drained humusy loams
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 2 to 6 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8173412518_9b3cd7aa35_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrey Zharkikh / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLance-leaved coreopsis, also called tickseed, is a lovely yellow wildflower that can grow up to 2 feet even in bare areas. It doesn’t only look appealing to the human eye but also attracts pollinators and birds.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial wildflower is quite durable and resists heat, drought, and humidity. Because the plant spreads so easily, make sure to contain it so that it doesn’t overtake your garden. On the other hand, if you want to encourage new blooms, you should deadhead your lance-leaved coreopsis flowers with scissors.
\n\n\n\nThere are various plants in the Coreopsis species, and they’re generally seen as non-toxic. However, there isn’t a lot of data about the toxicity of lance-leaved coreopsis in particular, and there are some reports of toxicity to livestock Because the plant may have toxic effects, it’s always better to be cautious.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Wildflower
Hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Loamy, sandy, dry to medium moisture, well-drained; ideally poor, sandy or rocky soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 3 feet
Potential hazards: Some reports of toxicity
![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3972750375_f55529b403_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Pavelka / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAre you looking to add a pop of color to your yard? Consider planting the American beautyberry, which produces clusters of bright purple berries in the fall. The berries are not only beautiful but also a valuable food source for birds during the winter months. Moreover, the American beautyberry can even act as a natural mosquito repellant.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, you’ll be glad to find out that this shrub is relatively easy to care for. The American beautyberry doesn’t have any big problems with pests, and it can also handle some drought, though too much of it could be a problem.
\n\n\n\nYou may need to prune your American beautyberry in winter if you want to encourage more growth. Also, make sure to remove dead wood in spring. The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade.
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry is listed as non-toxic to humans on calpoison.org. Its berries can even be made into jelly. However, some sources report that they may have mildly toxic effects. To find out more information, you can discuss any dietary changes with a medical professional. Because there’s a lack of data about the plant’s toxicity to domestic animals, you should keep them from eating it.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
Hardiness zones: 6 to 10
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Low
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter; tolerant of various soil types as long as it gets good drainage
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 8 feet
Potential hazards: Mild toxic effects reported; a lack of data regarding toxicity to pets
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/winter-berry-tree-background.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a bit of color to your lawn through the winter, the winterberry holly, also known as the black alder, is a fitting choice. The plant features red berries throughout the winter and also provides food and shelter for birds and pollinators in the summer.
\n\n\n\nWhile it can grow in the shade, this shrub also tolerates heat and drought. It handles wet, swampy, or boggy conditions and both light and heavy soils. Its preference is, however, for moist, organic, acidic soils. Moreover, the winterberry holly is susceptible to some plant diseases, so make sure that you address any signs of infection promptly.
\n\n\n\nTake note that although the plant provides food for wildlife, it’s toxic to humans, domestic animals, and livestock, including dogs, cats, and horses.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree or large shrub
Hardiness zones: 3 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade, deep shade
Water needs: Moderate
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet soils; ideally moist, organic and acidic soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 15 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/766px-Heartleaf_aster_1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Nadiatalent / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe heart-leaved aster is also called the heart-leaved American aster and blue wood aster. It produces delicate blue-purple wildflowers that attract butterflies and bees.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for an easy-care plant, the heart-leaved aster is a great option. It’s resilient and low-maintenance, and can thrive in partial shade. Provide it with good air circulation to avoid diseases.
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t deadhead your heart-leaved aster, it’s likely to self-seed. Moreover, you should pinch back stems a number of times before mid-July if you want to control the plant’s look and height. If you do this, you may not need to stake the plant.
\n\n\n\nLittle is known about the hazards of the heart-leaved aster. However, the aster species includes many different types of plants, some of which are severely toxic, so practice caution.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
Hardiness zones: 3 to 8
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Low
Soil: Loamy, sandy, average, well-drained; ideally rich and dry to moist (not too moist)
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: Typically 2 to 5 feet; occasionally can grow to 6 feet
Potential hazards: None known due to a lack of data; other plants of the species are highly toxic, so practice caution
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a dash of vibrance to your landscape, you can consider switchgrass. Not only can it grow quite tall, but it stands out with its colorful foliage.
\n\n\n\nThe first shoots of this tall grass emerge in the summer and brighten up the space with a burst of green. As fall approaches, it turns red and purple. Finally, switchgrass stays yellow throughout the winter.
\n\n\n\nWhile this ornamental grass prefers moist, clay, or sandy soils, it can grow in a variety of soils. Overly rich soils may cause the grass to flop. You should cut your switchgrass clumps back between late winter and early spring.
\n\n\n\nSwitchgrass is also a source of food for pollinators and birds. However, it’s toxic to some animals, so be cautious with your pets.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Ornamental grass
Hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet; prefers moist clay or sandy soil; can tolerate periods of drought and flooding
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 6 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic to some animals
![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/35788220756_6c924b709e_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is also known as orange milkweed. The milkweed family is the only host plant for monarch caterpillars as well as a delicious food source for adult butterflies. Apart from butterflies, hummingbirds also like to snack on butterfly weed’s nectar.
\n\n\n\nApart from being an important natural food for wildlife, butterfly weed can also look amazing on your lawn. It may take up to 2 or 3 years to establish, but after that, you’ll get a yearly display of bright orange flowers.
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to caring for your butterfly weed, think about the right spot to plant it. It should stay in its place once established and not be transplanted because of its deep taproot. To thrive, it should grow in full sun. It’s drought tolerant, so warm summer weather shouldn’t pose a problem. If you don’t want your butterfly weed to self-seed, remove seed pods before they split open.
\n\n\n\nTake caution; butterfly weed is a toxic plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
Hardiness zones: 4 to 10
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Low
Soil: Sandy, poor, average, dry to medium, well-drained
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 2 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/47964802722_6865f7b1d4_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nGreen and gold has delicate, golden-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Don’t let its outward appearance fool you, though. This evergreen ground cover is resilient and can withstand weeds and diseases. Moreover, it also attracts songbirds and pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThis ground cover is also perfect for filling in gaps between other plants in your garden because it grows in shady areas. If your turfgrass can’t handle the shade, green and gold is a great option to make your lawn look complete and lush. Just watch out for mildew and contain the plant by removing spent flower stems.
\n\n\n\nGreen and gold has no known toxic effects, but it isn’t confirmed to be non-toxic either, so always proceed with caution.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Ground cover
Hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Sun: Partial shade, deep shade; tolerates full sun only if it grows in consistently moist soils
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Loamy, medium moisture, average, well-drained; ideally moist, acidic, rich with organic matter
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 2 inches
Potential hazards: None known (lack of data)
Each Durham native has its own unique characteristics. Make sure you consider the unique traits of the plant, such as soil needs, shade needs, and potential hazards, before you pick the plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAlso, take note that just because a plant doesn’t have known hazards doesn’t mean it’s completely safe, so be careful and keep an eye on children and pets around all plants. If you want to know about the medicinal or edible uses of any plant, consult a medical professional.
\n\n\n\nOne more important thing to consider is your area’s hardiness zone. Durham’s hardiness zone is 7b, which means its minimum temperatures are between 5 and 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Any plants you get need to match this hardiness zone to handle Durham’s coldest weather conditions. But there’s no cause for concern; all the plants in this article are a good fit for Durham’s climate.
\n\n\n\nDurham has a number of stunning native plants. But if you spot any of them in nature, don’t bring them home. Moving plants out of their natural habitat can disrupt the ecosystem and harm wildlife. Instead, get your plants ethically from local nurseries.
\n\n\n\nExamples of Durham nurseries are:
\n\n\n\nOnce you pick your natives, you’re one step closer to establishing a beautiful landscape, but you’re not done just yet. Don’t forget to also pick the right grass type. and consider all the maintenance work you’ll need to do throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to provide your landscape with the right care, consider hiring one of WikiLawn’s local pros who can handle it for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Red maple / David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"11 Native Plants That Will Make Your Durham, NC, Yard Pop","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1789c/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg","srcSet":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/107df/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 320w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/293e9/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 500w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/f2cbb/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 800w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1789c/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 960w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/c26c2/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1dd6e/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/67b76/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 320w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/8df11/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 500w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/98a65/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 800w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1dd6e/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 960w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/3cc96/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Native Plants That Will Make Your Durham, NC, Yard Pop | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"When it comes to Durham grass types, there are a variety of options. Let’s see which ones are right for your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"e789dc81-88dd-51d4-b4b7-95edbbecdae7","slug":"best-native-plants-new-england","path":"/lawn-care/new-england/best-native-plants-new-england/","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":"42adf9a6-64c0-5d84-ac5a-2561efc3210c","name":"New England","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/new-england/"}],"date":"May 29th, 2023","excerpt":"Where can we start with this beautiful and historic North American region? The Green Mountains in Vermont, and Bartholomew’s Cobble in Massachusetts are just a few attractions New England has to offer. However, you may sometimes need to help mother nature carry out its duties of maintaining the local ecosystem. By growing the best native […]
\n","content":"\nWhere can we start with this beautiful and historic North American region? The Green Mountains in Vermont, and Bartholomew’s Cobble in Massachusetts are just a few attractions New England has to offer. However, you may sometimes need to help mother nature carry out its duties of maintaining the local ecosystem. By growing the best native plants for New England, you’ll get to support the region’s diverse wildlife and create a beautiful backyard to enjoy apple ciders in the fall.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nNew England lies in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 7. This region in the northeast is characterized by hot summers, short springs, and harsh winters with heavy snow. New England is home to many plant species to help you design a colorful, fragrant, and aesthetically pleasing garden. The following native species are able to thrive in the region’s climate and support the local wildlife habitat.
\n\n\n\n![\"Canadian](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canadian-Anemone.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Meneerke bloem / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCanadian anemone is a herbaceous perennial that can be planted near streams, ponds, and water gardens. It produces masses of upward-facing white flowers that bloom in mid-spring to early summer, preferably in sunny areas. This native plant spreads vigorously from underground rhizomes, and will gradually form large colonies.
\n\n\n\nCanadian anemone is native to every state in New England, though it does not attract beneficial insects and pollinators.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moderately moist, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April to August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium; water weekly or when topsoil is completely dry
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to about 30 inches tall
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans, pets, and other animals if eaten in large quantities
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low; keep the soil moist
\n\n\n\n![\"Virgin’s](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Virgins-Bower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: I, SB Johnny / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVirgin’s bower is a large, deciduous climber with masses of fragrant, white flowers. It can spread aggressively by self-seeding. Plume-like seed heads are left by the passing female flowers, keeping the plant’s visual appeal. Virgin’s bower is great for the local wildlife, attracting both butterflies and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nNative to every state in New England, this shade-tolerant vine is great for covering walls, arbors, or fences.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Organic-rich, well-drained loamy or silty soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet smelling
\n\n\n\nBloom time: July – September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to High
\n\n\n\nMature height: 12 to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans, pets, and other animals
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium
\n\n\n\n![\"Swamp](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSwamp milkweed is a clump-forming perennial that is a great fit for New England gardens. The fragrant, lilac-pink flowers are a great source of nectar for bees, beneficial insects, and butterflies. This plant’s umbels give way to attractive seed pods in the fall, adding to its visual appeal. Swamp milkweed is the perfect plant for cottage or butterfly gardens.
\n\n\n\nMilkweed species are host plants for Monarch butterflies and critical for their survival. Help these beautiful creatures reverse their fortune by adding this native plant to your garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet smelling
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Midsummer to fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans and animals in large quantities
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\nKnown for its drought tolerance, serviceberry is a New England native perennial that can be used as an attractive, ornamental shrub. In mid-spring, compact clusters of white flowers emerge just before the leaves. They are followed by sweet berries in early summer, consumed by both humans and birds.
\n\n\n\nAdding beauty to any landscape, the foliage of light-green leaves turns to shades of yellow and orange in the fall. Serviceberry can be planted in each of the region’s six states.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loamy or sandy; well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Lightly scented
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 16 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Nannyberry-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Doug McGrady / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNanyberry is a native perennial that can be used as a large, deciduous shrub or a multi-stemmed small tree. It is admired for its attractive fall foliage and eye-catching flower clusters. The creamy-white flowers emerge from large buds that are held above the foliage. They are non-fragrant and loved by pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nIn fall, the blossoms give way to bluish-black berries with red bright stalks. These berries are edible, and can be used to make tasty jams for the entire family. Nannyberry is a durable, slightly shade-tolerant plant that can be grown throughout New England.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub or small tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness zones: 2 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Wet sheep wool when over-ripe
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 10 to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Wild](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Bergamot-or-Bee-Balm-Monarda-Fistulosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBee balm is one of the showiest summer-blooming perennials you can plant in your front or backyard. It has very distinctive flower-heads that create captivating border displays. Bee balm’s blooms consist of two-lipped tubular flowers which rest upon a whorl of decorative bracts. It combines well with other summer perennials such as phlox and daylilies.
\n\n\n\nBee balm is another native plant that supports the local wildlife, attracting the likes of hummingbirds and butterflies. If you wish to have a flamboyant garden, beebalm cultivars don’t disappoint. They are available in shades of red, purple, violet, white, and pink.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial plant
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Minty aroma when leaves are crushed
\n\n\n\nBloom time: July – August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 10 to 12 inches
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Average
\n\n\n\n![\"Winterberry\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Winterberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Under the same moon… / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLiving up to its name, winterberry adds color to the winter landscape. It is a slow-growing shrub that produces small, greenish-white flowers in late spring or early summer. These flowers are followed by a profusion of red berries that are eaten by birds. Both male and female shrubs are needed to produce berries. Additionally, the male must bloom at the same time as the female plant. Winterberry needs full sun to bear plenty of fruits and maintain its aesthetic appearance.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand, moist, acidic
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 – 15 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazard: Mild toxicity to humans, pets, and other animals if ingested.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Maple.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Public Domain Pictures
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRed maple is a popular plant in New England that’s known for its lovely fall color. It is a fast-growing, deciduous tree that can provide enough shade to counter the scorching sun. Tiny red flowers appear just before the leaves in early spring, followed by red fruits.
\n\n\n\nRed maple is just as attractive during the winter season, mostly due to its smooth gray bark. With very little pruning required, this native tree serves as a great specimen plant for lawns and streets throughout the northeast region.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet cherry or almond flower scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – April
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 40 to 70 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to horses
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Seaside](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Seaside-Goldenrod.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeaside goldenrod is a herbaceous, perennial wildflower that requires very little maintenance, easily grown in every New England state. It has a tight clump of evergreen basal leaves that bloom in late summer to fall. These leaves bear large, deep-yellow flowers that are an excellent nectar source for honeybees and butterflies. Additionally, the dried seeds serve as a valuable food source for local birds.
\n\n\n\nSeaside goldenrod is highly salt-tolerant, making it a great choice of plant for coastal landscapes.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full Sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam and Sandy soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet-smelling
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Late summer to fall
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: High
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pennsylvania-Sedge.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPennsylvania sedge is a low-growing, semi-evergreen perennial that forms a tuft of green arching leaves in spring and summer. It spreads via underground rhizomes to form large colonies. It is a valuable and shade-tolerant groundcover, making it an ideal turf alternative for dry, shady areas.
\n\n\n\nPennsylvania sedge can attract birds, butterflies, and other pollinators. It is drought-tolerant and very easy to grow, making it a popular addition to lawns across New England.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Grass/Grass-like
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Adaptable; dry to moist soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to about 10 inches tall
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Beach](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Beach-Plum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBeach plum is a dense, suckering shrub with white flowers and glossy, dark green leaves. It was a staple food source for early settlers in this part of North America. It bears fruits which ripen from August to October, attracting birds and other wildlife. Unfortunately, the seeds found inside the fruits are toxic to humans and should never be eaten. For this plant to thrive, it needs a sunny location with good drainage. Beach plum can provide your garden with a beautiful fall color, able to grow throughout the region with the exception of Vermont.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy or gravelly soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweetly-scented
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: April – June
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to humans; seeds found inside fruits should never be eaten
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\nWith many plant species native to New England, you’ll need to consider several key points before choosing the right garden plants:
\n\n\n\nIt is important to note that some plants might be native to a certain state, such as Maine, but not to every county or area. The climate in coastal Maine is not the same as in the mountains, potentially affecting a plant’s growing conditions.
\n\n\n\nNew England may be classified as one region, but let’s not forget that it includes six distinct states. Whichever part of New England you’re from, you tend to take pride in your own state flower. All of the state flowers are native to New England, with some able to grow across the entire Northeast.
• Vermont: Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
• Massachusetts: Trailing arbutus (Epigaea repens)
• Connecticut: Mountain laurel (Kalmia Latifolia)
• Maine: White pine oak (Pinus strobus)
• New Hampshire: Purple lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
• Rhode Island: Common blue violet (Viola sororia)
Invasive plants are a threat to the local ecosystem and survival of many indigenous species. As a result, every state in the US works hard to identify and eliminate invasive species that disrupt the proper growth of native plants. The six states of New England are no exception.
While some can be found more in certain states than others, here are some of the region’s invasive plant species:
• Amur maple (Acer ginnala)
• Mexican fireweed (Kochia scorparia)
• Flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus)
• Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
• Japanese sedge (Carex kobomugi)
In addition to the plants mentioned above, here are some more New England native plants for you to consider:
• Coastal sweet pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia)
• Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum)
• Elderberry (Sambucus)
• Pennsylvania bittercress (Cardamine pensylvanica)
• Pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia)
• Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)
• New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
One of the many great things about native plants is that they can be found throughout nature. You may sometimes find these plants growing near your own property. If a plant is accustomed to the area’s climate, then it will naturally grow with little to no help from us humans.
\n\n\n\nYou can find several plant nurseries and garden centers that specialize in plants native to your state or area.
\n\n\n\nNative plants are an excellent low-maintenance addition to your New England landscape. To further minimize your outdoor chores, hire a lawn care pro near you to handle your yard’s mowing, edging, and trimming.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Little Pond – Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens / Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for New England","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/1789c/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/107df/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.jpg 320w,\n/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/293e9/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.jpg 500w,\n/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/f2cbb/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.jpg 800w,\n/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/1789c/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.jpg 960w,\n/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/c26c2/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/1dd6e/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/67b76/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.webp 320w,\n/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/8df11/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.webp 500w,\n/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/98a65/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.webp 800w,\n/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/1dd6e/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.webp 960w,\n/static/1d17424290c81945bf4726b355541d66/3cc96/Little-pond-Coastal-Maine-Botanical-Gardens.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for New England","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want to support the local wildlife and refresh your outdoor living space? Explore the best native plants for New England to help you get started right away."}}},{"node":{"id":"0adae769-d709-59ab-9544-7dbb5a7e0059","slug":"best-grass-types-southern-california","path":"/lawn-care/ca/best-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":"There’s nothing like relaxing on a fresh green lawn on a sunny day. But what kind of grass do you need to create your dream lawn? Any SoCal turf has to handle the heat. You’ll also need to consider if your lawn is decorative or practical. You’ll need a grass type with good traffic tolerance […]
\n","content":"\nThere’s nothing like relaxing on a fresh green lawn on a sunny day. But what kind of grass do you need to create your dream lawn?
\n\n\n\nAny SoCal turf has to handle the heat. You’ll also need to consider if your lawn is decorative or practical. You’ll need a grass type with good traffic tolerance if you have pets, kids, or frequent backyard parties. If you live near the beach, you’ll need something with salinity tolerance. Let’s review the best grass types for Southern California so you can find a good fit for your yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nWith dozens of turfgrass species in the U.S., how do homeowners narrow down their choices? The primary method is by what climate the grass thrives in. Warm-season grasses thrive in the Southern U.S., while cool-season grasses thrive in the Northern U.S.
\n\n\n\nHowever, that doesn’t mean you can’t grow any cool-season grasses in SoCal. Cool-season grass can survive throughout California, except in the desert regions in the Southeast. Homeowners in that area must choose warm-season grass. If you live anywhere else in California, you must weigh the pros and cons of warm and cool-season grasses to see which suits you better.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nWith such a tropical name, it’s no wonder bermudagrass does well in warm climates. This dark to blue-green grass is water-efficient, though it may turn brown during extended drought. It also doesn’t grow well in the shade. It has no significant pest problems and tolerates salinity and foot traffic well.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass can be high or low-maintenance, depending on the variety. While most types have a moderate nitrogen requirement, hybrid varieties require more fertilizer. Most varieties require frequent mowing due to their rapid growth, which provides good resilience during the growing season. However, it could invade garden beds or neighboring yards because of this aggressive growth.
\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/2023/05/Kikuyugrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose, Macleay Grass Man / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhile some consider this grass a weed, others have adopted it as a turfgrass. Kikuyugrass is light green and coarse-textured with a similar appearance to St. Augustinegrass. It is mainly found within 50 miles of the coast in Southern and Central California but also can survive inland. It has a high temperature, drought, and salinity tolerance. While it tolerates shade, it is susceptible to cold weather.
\n\n\n\nKikuyugrass’ quick-spreading growth pattern is a double-edged sword — it recovers from damage well, but it’s also susceptible to thatch and spreads where it’s not wanted. Though the excess thatch makes mowing challenging, that shouldn’t deter you from a regular schedule. If you let it grow too long and cut too much off at once, this turf is likely to suffer for it.
\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![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bubble-on-St.-Augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis medium green grass creates dense lawns with a high drought and heat tolerance. It does well on the Southern California coast and the coastal valleys. Though St. Augustinegrass has a high shade tolerance for warm-season grass, it prefers full sun. It may go dormant in winter because of its low cold tolerance, but it depends on what part of Southern California you live in.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass requires moderate to high maintenance. Though it has few weed problems, it needs lots of fertilization. You also must dethatch regularly to improve grass health and make mowing easier. This grass isn’t the best choice for backyard sports enthusiasts, but it holds up well enough for general lawns. St. Augustinegrass seeds are not commercially available, so you need to establish the grass with sod or stolons.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; watch out for iron deficiency, fiery skippers, and Southern chinch bugs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a dark green grass type that forms thick, prickly turf. It is well adapted to warm climates and has a good drought, heat, and traffic tolerance. This grass does best in full sun but tolerates shade. It can turn brown and dormant in winter if temperatures are cool enough, but fall fertilization can improve its winter color.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is generally low-maintenance, with few pest problems and low fertilizer needs. Overfertilization could lead to excessive thatch buildup and difficulty mowing. The biggest downside of Zoysiagrass is its slow establishment. Some varieties like “Emerald”and “DeAnza” establish quicker, but most homeowners install sod or sprigs instead to speed things up.
\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![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nDespite the name, this grass type is more dark green than blue. It creates dense turf that repairs itself when damaged. Despite this quick recovery time, it isn’t very traffic tolerant. This moderate to high-maintenance grass prefers full sun but tolerates light shade.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass will grow in Southern California in fall, winter, and spring in Southern California. However, it’s not a good choice if you want a summer superstar. It won’t grow in the heat and will likely go dormant in droughts. When stressed by heat, lack of water, or poor soil quality, it will be much more susceptible to diseases and weeds. Kentucky bluegrass is often mixed with 15% perennial ryegrass, so it performs better.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate, but will survive by going dormant
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency; a high-maintenance grass
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, fertile
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Produces a dense lawn under ideal conditions; many of these traits (shade tolerance, drought resistance, etc.) vary widely by cultivar, with newer cultivars generally being hardier, more resistant to disease, etc.; mow taller in summer; most often mixed with other species, such as tall fescue, in home lawns
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\nThe mild California winters are just right for this cool-season grass. While it does best in fall through spring, it will tolerate warm temperatures and heat stress. Its extensive root system gives it good drought tolerance compared to other cool-season grasses. Tall fescue is low maintenance, with little mowing required. It also has good weed and disease resistance.
\n\n\n\nThis medium to dark green grass is prevalent throughout the state but won’t do well in high-altitude areas. Though tall fescue has moderate traffic tolerance, it may struggle to recover from damage. Reseed any patchy areas since they won’t fill in naturally.
\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 (Check your cultivar and state recommendations. 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\nSouthern California’s most drought-resistant grass types are bermudagrass, kikuyugrass, and Zoysiagrass. If you would prefer cool-season grass, choose tall fescue.
Bermudagrass, kikuyugrass, and Zoysiagrass are the best grass types for dog owners. They can handle the extra foot traffic and recover from damage. Keep in mind that no grass is completely dog-resistant.
Bermudagrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and tall fescue are available in seed form. They are all suitable for seeding new or existing lawns.
While Zoysiagrass seeds exist, their slow establishment rate makes sod more practical. St. Augustinegrass and kikuyugrass are not commercially available in seed form.
Yes. Kentucky bluegrass is frequently combined with ryegrass or tall fescue to improve performance. Some blends are specially formulated for the SoCal climate. For example, Marathon grass is a mixture of different tall fescue varieties.
You fight a losing battle when you ignore Mother Nature. If you embrace the California climate, your lawn and garden will thrive. Complement your new lawn and reduce your fire risk with drought-resistant landscaping and plants native to Southern California.
\n\n\n\nLawn care and landscaping are sweaty work, especially in sunny SoCal. If you need a hand, Wikilawn’s pros are here to help. We can connect you with landscapers and lawn care companies in Los Angeles, San Diego, Anaheim, and many more Southern California cities.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Josh Lee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Southern California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/1789c/lawn-in-southern-california-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/107df/lawn-in-southern-california-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/293e9/lawn-in-southern-california-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/f2cbb/lawn-in-southern-california-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/1789c/lawn-in-southern-california-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/c26c2/lawn-in-southern-california-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/1dd6e/lawn-in-southern-california-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/67b76/lawn-in-southern-california-1.webp 320w,\n/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/8df11/lawn-in-southern-california-1.webp 500w,\n/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/98a65/lawn-in-southern-california-1.webp 800w,\n/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/1dd6e/lawn-in-southern-california-1.webp 960w,\n/static/4578caace32bf09da5eaf649611fe81c/3cc96/lawn-in-southern-california-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Southern California | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Do you need a lawn to beat the SoCal heat? The best grass types for Southern California will look good and thrive in the local climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"17b1c722-3deb-5849-8754-404243fe183c","slug":"worst-backyard-pests","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/worst-backyard-pests/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"dc593a91-bb7f-5961-b8a5-96bfdf119898","name":"Tampa","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/tampa/"}],"date":"July 30th, 2019","excerpt":"Taking the time now to learn about the worst backyard pests in Tampa will pay off if you happen to run across any in your yard. Here are some of the most common garden pests and suggestions for getting rid of them.
\n","content":"\nAfter working so hard to make your yard and garden perfect, you deserve to enjoy it. Taking the time now to learn about the worst backyard pests in Tampa will pay off if you happen to run across any in your yard. Here are some of the most common garden pests and suggestions for getting rid of them.
\n\n\n\nCockroaches are generally about 1.5 inches long and love the humidity in Tampa. You’ll find them in your garden, trees, under your sink, in your bathroom, behind the dishwasher, and anywhere there’s moisture. The females will lay eggs anywhere they can find food and water. Avoid leaving pet food out and, to the extent possible, deprive them of the moist, shady outdoor areas in which they thrive, such as stacks of wood, piles of leaves or hollow tree stumps.
\n\n\n\nThere are many species of cockroaches in Florida. Some fly, some don’t. Some seek shelter in homes, others don’t. The giant of them all is the Florida woods cockroach, also known as the palmetto bug. One member of the species was plucked from the obscurity of a woodpile in Apopka, Fla., and won the World Cockroach Contest in 1986. Its length: 2.49 inches. Its name: Longfellow. Its one saving grace: Like other palmetto bugs, it prefers to live outdoors.
\n\n\n\nCockroaches rarely bite, but many carry bacteria such as salmonella which can contaminate food. Their waste and sheddings can trigger attacks in people with asthma. Boric acid dust and common insecticides help control them, but it’s best to call an exterminator for any substantial infestation. Even a professional won’t be able to totally rid your yard or house of these worst backyard pests in Tampa.
\n\n\n\nThe tiny mouths of these arthropods allow them to make holes in many of your plants. Getting rid of spider mites can be difficult. Try applying a half and half mixture of water and alcohol. Make sure the alcohol is isopropyl, which is toxic to insects but shouldn’t hurt your plants. If the mites are still making your garden and lawn into their home, you may have to research chemical products.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/K3UXOYZ81AKeXZfwZwO9qG3NJbV6eczq6Hgv2I8vQviswAkGhD5gri16byFvUB97GDqnN5mFh0wtB49_r9WmNnTXr4IQyKonStT6LhVlnBQqLkS_bfA4Fk92T3QCzOafsNoWfGRZ\")
Tropical sod webworms can do a lot of damage. For such tiny creatures, they can have a big impact on your yard. These caterpillars may be hard to spot, as they can turn as green as the grass they eat. If one part of your lawn has brown patches and is shorter than the rest, bend down and inspect it closely to see whether your lawn is infested.
\n\n\n\nThe adults are annoying triangular-shaped moths that don’t do much damage. But they lay eggs in the lawn, and the hatching larvae feed on the grass blades. To get rid of these tiny troublemakers, try sprinkling soapy water on the lawn. This will usually draw the critters out, so you can remove them. But if you notice a large infestation, you’ll have to resort to an insecticide. Spinosad is an organic product that controls the tropical sod webworm, without hurting the grass or beneficial bugs.
\n\n\n\nThese gray oval bugs can destroy your plants quickly. Their dusty and grainy look is actually a waxy protective coat. Since they may be hard to spot, keep an eye out for dirty or yellow patches on your plants. Your plants looking like they have fur or lint on them may be another sign mealybugs have taken up residence.
\n\n\n\nTo get rid of them, spray the plants with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Another approach is to deter them their natural predators. Tiny wasps, “mealybug destroyer” ladybugs and lacewings will make a quick meal of the mealy bugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Pulm8_tsekxSdH-8nbUZKxQa8LVaiXskw2AXgxpMwqfdMLBGFwrh8GahZ69xx7qX5b2SIY4pBbv64tPhtQEcrv-hbsQqzEogBZUnc__0-qCMmLfLmCfWT6WweCcCdSlUjBK7kSqO\")
Opossums are prevalent in Florida. If they can get ahold of anything in your garden, they will. To keep them away, trim the fruit trees where the critters like to snack. You can also block off and cover individual plants and areas you want to protect. Chemical deterrents for opossums are also available if you ‘re at your wits end with these pests.
\n\n\n\nWhile opossums are a nuisance, they can also be beneficial. Besides feasting on your citrus trees, they eat ticks, mice, roaches, rats and snakes. They’re actually immune to rattlesnake venom. Opossums are also the only marsupial in North America and one of the oldest critters on earth.
\n\n\n\nYou may not immediately think of housepets such as cats or dogs as garden pests, but they can ruin a lawn and garden faster than an opossum. Cats and dogs are naturally curious and like to chew on plants and grass. Cats like to lay and roll in the grass and newly seeded dirt. Dogs love to dig. The best way to keep your pets from chewing on your grass and garden plants is by training them to use a designated area of the yard. You can also try a homemade solution which has garlic, hot pepper or soapy water. Another tip is to water the area your yard where the dog goes potty. This will help dilute the urine, which can kill the grass.
\n\n\n\nWith the right knowledge and effort, you can protect your home from the worst backyard pests in Tampa. Once your garden is safe, you’ll have more time to enjoy relaxing in it, than working on it.
\n\n\n\n
Want to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Tampa? Visit our Tampa Lawn Care page.
Fall is a lovely time of year, but in many parts of the country, it’s rather short. Winter can take a toll on your yard even if your town rarely sees snow, and fall is your last chance to prepare your property for impact. If you don’t get your landscape ready now, you’ll be faced […]
\n","content":"Fall is a lovely time of year, but in many parts of the country, it’s rather short. Winter can take a toll on your yard even if your town rarely sees snow, and fall is your last chance to prepare your property for impact. If you don’t get your landscape ready now, you’ll be faced with a muddy mess come springtime.
\nSo grab your tools and put on your gardening boots. We at Wiki Lawn have prepared a few fall landscaping tips and maintenance ideas you can use to “fall-ify” your landscaping and get your property ready for winter.
\nApproximately 90% of Americans say they prefer to live in a home that’s surrounded by grass, trees, and other plants. But if you’re going to have plants, you’ll need to maintain them like the rest of your yard.
\nThat leads us into the first of these 12 fall maintenance tips.
\nIt’s important to spread mulch during the fall months because it helps to protect the roots of your trees and plants from frost. It also helps to retain moisture in the dry winter weather. You’ll want to spread between 2 and 3 inches of mulch around your trees and shrubs.
\nCheck out our tips for Eco-friendly Lawn Care.
\nFall might not be the time to prune your plants, but it’s definitely the time to remove the dead and dying plants from your yard. When you get rid of your dead landscaping during autumn, you won’t have to look at them during the winter months. Remove dead annuals and perennials. Prune (lightly) the dying branches from trees and shrubs.
\nYour shrubs can be damaged from high winds, ice, and heavy snow. Wrap your shrubs in burlap to protect them from winter weather conditions and surround your trees with shredded leaves. If you have smaller plants, use overturned plastic pots or bucks to hide them.
\nIt’s a good idea to mow your lawn so the grass doesn’t get too long before the first snowfall. According to gentlemanship guide Joel Flynn, grass that’s too long can not only shade the other blades of grass and affect growth but it can also get packed down under the snow and cause snow mold. You’ll want to keep your grass around 3 inches tall year-round to make sure it’s able to grow properly and receive enough sunlight.
\nLearn How to Grow Grass like a gardening expert.
\nIt’s essential to take care of your plants and lawn before winter hits, but it’s important to give your walkways and driveway some special attention, too. If you have cracks in your concrete or asphalt, water can penetrate these cracks and freeze during the winter months. When the water freezes in the cracks, it expands the cracks and causes even more damage to your walkways and driveway. That said, be sure to apply a sealant to keep water from getting into these cracks while it’s still warm enough to do so.
\nFallen leaves in the yard might look like an autumn postcard at first, but soon enough they turn into a problem. After a while, the leaves start to decay, they become slippery and might be a potential health hazard.
\nUse a leaf blower or a lawn sweeper to collect dead leaves and tidy your yard. Ensure that the house gutters are also free from fallen leaves. Clogged gutters can cause significant water damage if left unattended.
\nYellow, red, brown and all sort of hues formed from these colors are what makes fall such a lovely season. Implement these colors in the outdoor decoration of your property. Collect some of the fallen leaves in your yard and place them in baskets at your front porch.
\nAlso, plant seasonal flowers such as crocuses and goldenrod that bloom in October and November. This way you’ll have an incentive to continue watering your lawn and it will remain greener for longer.
\nWhen the trees in your yard lose their leaves, any hidden flaws of the exterior of your home will be exposed. According to manhood culture and lifestyle expert Joel Flynn, poor looks mean it’s time to make an inspection and dedicate some time for small repairs and improvements.
\nUse a pressure washer to clean the exterior of the house along with the driveway and walkway. Repaint and seal any chipped paint, wipe the windows and their frames. And we’ll say it again because it’s highly important – clean your gutters too.
\nWith summer gone, daylight is also scarce. For the convenience of your own family, inspect the outdoor lights to see if they work properly or need maintenance. Test if they provide enough illumination from the walkway to the entrance of your home.
\nInvest in energy-saving lightbulbs to reduce your electricity bills and also help the environment. If you’re a big fan of the upcoming holidays, get decorative lights and arrange them creatively.
\nRead also: How to Use Lighting To Transform Your Outdoor Space.
\nPumpkin, in all its forms and colors, is the queen of autumn. You can even use it for decorating the exterior of your home. Arrange several pumpkins on the front porch or window sills. Create a DIY wreath from mini pumpkins and seasonal flowers and proudly hang it on the front door.
\nFor more inspiration, check out our 9 Examples of Halloween Inspired Garden Designs.
\nWhatever decoration you choose, make sure it’s tasteful. Don’t overdo it.
\nDuring autumn, the weather is often gloomy. And with fewer colors in the yard, your house will lose its appeal. Use this opportunity to put an emphasis on the front door.
\nRepaint it in a bright color that will make it stand out from the neighborhood doors. Yellow, blue, and red are great options for highlighting the entrance.
\nAlso, check the insulation of the front door and prepare it for the cold months.
\nImprove the curb appeal of your property by installing a new mailbox or upgrading the old one. This can be a fun family project for a rainy afternoon. Customize your mailbox with bright colors, unusual design or whatever else comes to your mind.
\nUse Pinterest for mailbox makeover inspiration.
\nAlso, check if your house numbers need any polishing or replacement. Numbers made from aluminum or stainless steel won’t be affected by the weather changes that much.
\nAutumn is the time to prepare your yard for the cold winter months. Make sure your trees, plants, and walkways are as ready for the snow as you are. Upgrade the exterior of your home and make it vibrant even during the gloomy months.
\nStill, have questions about lawn care?
\nVisit our lawn care page for additional information
If you want to increase the curb appeal of your property in Marble City, a great lawn is a must. And it all starts with choosing the right grass. Let’s take a look at the best grass types for Knoxville lawns. In this article: Best Grass Types for Knoxville Lawns Knoxville and the entire Tennessee […]
\n","content":"\nIf you want to increase the curb appeal of your property in Marble City, a great lawn is a must. And it all starts with choosing the right grass. Let’s take a look at the best grass types for Knoxville lawns.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nKnoxville and the entire Tennessee state are part of the transitional zone. So, what does that mean for grasses?
\n\n\n\nWinters are too cold for warm-season grasses, while summers are too hot for cool-season grasses. Generally, if your home receives a lot of sunlight, you should opt for warm-season grasses. If not, stick to cool-season grasses as they are more shade tolerant.
\n\n\n\nGo through the list below and choose the best grass type for your Knoxville lawn, depending on your requirements.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ty Haller / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue grass is the go-to choice for many Knoxville homeowners because it’s a highly adaptable cool-season grass. Tall fescue is heat- and drought-tolerant compared to other cool-season grasses, thanks to its 2- to 3-foot-deep root system.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is dark green and coarse with wide blades, making it highly durable and suitable for heavy foot traffic. It requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for fast, dense growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ethan2039 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass (KBG) is a cool-season lawn grass widely used across the United States. It’s durable, soft on bare feet, and gives your lawn a dense appearance.
\n\n\n\nKBG has an excellent capacity for self-repair, but it doesn’t do well in shade. Kentucky bluegrass can be a great choice for Knoxville lawns when mixed with tall fescue seed mixture at a ratio of 90:10 (tall fescue to KBG).
\n\n\n\n![\"Closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/27905054331_597897e108_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCreeping red fescue falls under the fine fescue category of turfgrass. It’s a cool-season grass that thrives in shade, so it’s ideal for yards that have thick tree canopies.
\n\n\n\nCreeping red fescue grass also requires little maintenance. It needs just 4 to 6 hours of direct daily sunlight. If your yard receives more sunlight than this, you’ll need to water your grass more often. On the downside, it’s not as durable as other grasses.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/buffalograss.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is a warm-season, low-maintenance grass that can survive extreme heat. It resists cold better than other warm-season grasses and grows well in clay soil. Use a complete fertilizer between late August and mid-September to maintain the green color of this grass during winter.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is durable and soft on bare feet. You should not overwater buffalograss as it can spawn weeds.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar JamesBecwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is a light green, warm-season grass that grows well in direct sunlight. It is more sensitive to cold than other warm-season grasses on this list.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass grows slowly, taking about 2 years to form a solid turf. It’s a low-maintenance grass, but since it takes a long time to grow, you should keep the weeds in check. One note of caution: It doesn’t withstand heavy foot traffic, so, avoid Centipedegrass if you use your lawn heavily.
\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\n\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a warm-season grass that loves full sunlight. It is excellent at tolerating foot traffic but requires frequent mowing. Bermudagrass has the fastest growth rate of any common warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nThis grass looks beautiful during warmer months but turns brown during winter. You should apply fertilizer during early fall to maintain the thickness of the lawn as the weather gets colder and to keep the weeds under control.
\n\n\n\nYou can opt for cool-season or warm-season grass types, depending on the characteristics of your environment. Most areas in Knoxville are better suited for cool-season grasses.
Creeping red fescue tolerates shade very well.
Buffalograss is a warm-season low-maintenance grass. Creeping red fescue is a cool-season low-maintenance grass.
If your Knoxville lawn experiences high foot traffic, you can prefer centipede grass and Bermuda grass.
Buffalograss, centipedegrass, Bermudagrass, and creeping red fescue turf grasses have a high tolerance to drought.
Since Knoxville is part of the transition zone, you should consider many factors when choosing grass for your lawn. Generally, cool-season grasses like tall fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass (KBG), and creeping red fescue tend to perform the best in Knoxville.
\n\n\n\nKBG can be a great choice for Knoxville lawns when mixed with tall fescue seed mixture at a ratio of 90:10, tall fescue to KBG.
\n\n\n\nBesides choosing the right grass type, you should also select the right plants for your Knoxville yard to make it look complete.
\n\n\n\nKeep your lawn lush and healthy with services from Wikilawn Knoxville lawn care experts.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Brian Stansberry / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Knoxville","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/1789c/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/107df/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.jpg 320w,\n/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/293e9/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.jpg 500w,\n/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/f2cbb/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.jpg 800w,\n/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/1789c/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.jpg 960w,\n/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/c26c2/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/1dd6e/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/67b76/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.webp 320w,\n/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/8df11/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.webp 500w,\n/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/98a65/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.webp 800w,\n/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/1dd6e/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.webp 960w,\n/static/f24408d93a273fa3fea878c3f5840467/3cc96/Bleak-house-knoxville-tn1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Knoxville, TN","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Knoxville is part of the transitional zone, and cool-season grasses generally perform best in this region."}}},{"node":{"id":"4ee1f51e-80fa-5d99-bef5-c69d1fdd836c","slug":"best-grass-for-north-georgia","path":"/lawn-care/ga/best-grass-for-north-georgia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Farah Nauman is a freelance writer and an accountant based in Pakistan. She spends most of her time combating the South Asian heat and being a mom to her three fluffy cats and a dozen little Aloe Veras in her house.","name":"Farah Nauman","id":"26059a96-5dc7-50a2-8fe4-f35b865ab4a8","path":"/author/farah-nauman/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6ec8e652d318d98583d29f520928b219?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"e4b1764d-a5cd-56e1-942a-7fc609f1b8e9","name":"Georgia","count":11,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ga/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 8th, 2023","excerpt":"North Georgia enjoys all four seasons to the fullest. This diversity is super, but it can also disrupt a lawn’s appearance and health as the weather changes. The secret to a problem-free and attractive lawn is to choose a grass that is adapted to your area. Luckily, both warm-season and cool-season grasses do well in […]
\n","content":"\nNorth Georgia enjoys all four seasons to the fullest. This diversity is super, but it can also disrupt a lawn’s appearance and health as the weather changes.
\n\n\n\nThe secret to a problem-free and attractive lawn is to choose a grass that is adapted to your area. Luckily, both warm-season and cool-season grasses do well in mountainous North Georgia. But these seven grasses really thrive in North Georgia and can provide the luscious, evergreen yard you want
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nBefore we get to the details, here’s a quick overview of warm-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nHere are four warm-season grasses best suited for your Georgia yard.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nThis warm-season grass is popular in Georgia because of its hardiness. It develops a dense, low-maintenance turf that won’t need much watering during the hot summer months. The density comes from its underground woven rhizome and stolons and translates into excellent foot traffic tolerance.
\n\n\n\nTightly packed Bermudagrass blades also naturally crowd out weeds. Bermudagrass is fast-growing, drought-tolerant, and resists salinity and heat. It also does well in a wide range of soil pHs. Rapid growth rate also helps this grass type to recover quickly from wear and traffic damage.
\n\n\n\nThe only downside of Bermudagrass is that it needs a full, bright sun to thrive. Plus, the dense turf needs regular dethatching to stay disease free. It goes brown and dormant in the winter and greens up around early April in North Georgia. The growing season may vary at different elevations.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes and stolons
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1 to 1.5 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.8 to 7.0
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\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\nThis is a resilient, cold-tolerant, and dense warm-season turf that will give your lawn all hues of green around the year. It is popular among homeowners with pets and kids due to its sturdiness and impressive foot traffic tolerance.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass blades establish a dark green color that slowly fades as the temperature drops. It thrives in direct sunlight but won’t mind some shade too. Its improved cold tolerance is quite fitting for North Georgia.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it’s a dense grass, it won’t need as much mowing as other warm-season grasses. But you need to detach regularly.
\n\n\n\nDespite being a drought-tolerant perennial species, Zoysiagrass needs frequent watering during the summer. It tackles a good amount of foot traffic and is also super easy to maintain.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes and stolons
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.8 to 7.0
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThis grass type is great if you want dense, cushioning turf in your yard. St. Augustinegrass develops broad-leafed, coarse-textured grass blades that are hardy enough to tolerate shade and salty soil.
\n\n\n\nThis is the least cold-tolerant warm-season grass and is the slowest to gain its green lusciousness back in spring. St. Augustinegrass can tolerate extreme heat and has the capacity to thrive in all soil types, but only if the soil is well-drained.
\n\n\n\nThe only minus of a St. Augustine lawn is that it won’t do great with lots of foot traffic. If your household is outdoorsy or you have pets and kids who like to hang around the yard, you might prefer Bermudagrass or Zoysiagrass.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2.5 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.0 to 6.5
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for low-maintenance grass, Centipedegrass is your pick. It’s a highly drought-tolerant grass that does pretty well with little to no fertilization.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass spreads by stolons and is one of the slow-growing grass types; it might even take a few years to fully establish if grown from seed. Typically, it creates a yellow-green lawn, that will turn a darker green when nitrogen fertilizer is applied. But resists the urge. Over-fertilization only increases maintenance needs and makes the grass sensitive to cold, thatch, and disease.
\n\n\n\nGenerally, centipedegrass lawns don’t respond well to overseeding and cold weather. But this grass type is fairly tolerant of shade and drought-like conditions, and repels weeds.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.0 to 6.0
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\nA few details about cool-season grasses you should know about:
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a look at these three cool-season grasses for your North Georgia yard:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis type of grass makes a great winter cover or a temporary yard for your Georgia landscape. You can plant perennial ryegrass as a protective cover over your warm-season grass to help it survive North Georgia’s cold winter with the nicest pop of green.
\n\n\n\nYou can also mix it with Kentucky bluegrass to improve its traffic and disease resistance. Perennial ryegrass naturally germinates quickly, suppresses weeds, and maintains a lovely green color through the winter.
\n\n\n\nIt develops tapered, fine-textured, and shiny blades that need regular maintenance to look uniform and good.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type, extends with tillers
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to low
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.0 to 7.0
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\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 is your go-to cool-season grass for a lawn in North Georgia. It’s shade-tolerant, drought-resistant, and highly adaptable to changing weather conditions. This grass type will also stay green throughout the year if you give it proper care. Plus, it’s pretty low-maintenance and is easy for beginners.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue survives in poor soil conditions and with low fertilization. Generally, tall fescue is also highly resistant to pests and diseases. Its coarse, wide blades proliferate fast and help the grass recover quickly from foot traffic or other damage.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.8 to 6.5
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\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 type creates a beautiful bluish-green lawn and grows best in Georgia’s cooler, northern areas.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is high maintenance. It needs more fertilizer, water, and herbicide than any other cool-season grass type. It prefers areas with partial shade, but will also handle full sunlight if watered generously. Kentucky bluegrass makes a soft, “walkable” lawn, but won’t adjust well to excessive foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2.5 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.0 to 7.0
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass requires little maintenance. This fine-textured grass resists disease and drought and thrives in a variety of growing conditions.
Bermudagrass is popular across Georgia because of its incredible drought tolerance, dense appearance, low maintenance needs, and overall sturdiness.
Tall fescue can stay green year-round, provided you appropriately care for it. This grass type thrives in yards that have both shady and sunny areas and makes do with minimal maintenance in colder months.
Building and keeping a healthy lawn in cities with temperamental weather can get tough, but the best way to do it is to choose the appropriate grass type for our climate.
\n\n\n\nFor lawns in North Georgia, the best-suited cool-season grass is tall fescue, and Zoysiagrass for warm-season lawns.
If you aren’t sure which turfgrass would be good on your lawn, or you don’t wish to expend so much energy into researching, planning, and planting, call in one of our lawn care pros to help.
Main Image Credit: ZachJBeavers / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"7 Grasses That Thrive in North Georgia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.6666666666666667,"src":"/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/1789c/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/107df/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/293e9/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/f2cbb/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/1789c/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/c26c2/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/1dd6e/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/67b76/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.webp 320w,\n/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/8df11/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.webp 500w,\n/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/98a65/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.webp 800w,\n/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/1dd6e/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.webp 960w,\n/static/0068233cc91b68b1f9695557844d19b3/3cc96/lawn-in-north-georgia-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Grasses That Thrive in North Georgia | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tired of your lawn struggling every time the weather changes? Here are seven grass types that thrive in North Georgia."}}},{"node":{"id":"f6b8f9c4-eb28-52c6-b216-03bf7dabc6df","slug":"native-plants-fort-worth","path":"/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/native-plants-fort-worth/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"9ccd5174-167e-5379-890b-68ac830ec905","name":"Forth Worth","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 12th, 2019","excerpt":"Choosing these native plants for a Fort Worth garden is a way to support the environment while saving yourself work.
\n","content":"\nCreating a landscape that’s both easy to care for as well as beautiful is easy in North Texas. Plenty of plants call the Fort Worth area home, and you’ll find them in both natural areas as well as cultivated gardens. Choosing native plants for Fort Worth garden is a way to support the environment while saving yourself work. Check out these native plants for Fort Worth that will flourish in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nAny way you pronounce it (and Texans pronounce it with a soft “ahn” at the end), the pecan tree is the state tree of Texas. This native tree features beautiful green foliage and plenty of those delicious nuts. Pecan trees can grow up to 100 feet tall, and live to be quite old. This member of the hickory family is a staple in the area and would make a great addition to any North Texas home. It can spread wider than other native trees, so make sure that you have enough room to house this beauty for years to come.
\n\n\n\n![\"Hummingbird](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/hummingbird-bush-1024x713.jpeg\")
Also known as the Mexican flame, the hummingbird bush is a Texas native and a magnet for pollinators. This bush features bright red blooms that accentuate any Fort Worth garden. The long tubular flower allows hummingbirds to reach the nectar. Plant the hummingbird bush in drier parts of the garden or along rocky slopes. Placing this beautiful bush near a window or outdoor living space will create up close and personal viewings of the many hummingbirds that will flock to this plant.
\n\n\n\nThere are many different kinds of coneflowers, or echinacea, available in local garden centers all around the Fort Worth area. You’ll find different leaf structures, but all include a beautiful seed head that points towards the sky. Coneflowers are quite popular, for their robust stance against heat and drought. These lovely blooms will continue on for months and attract a wide variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees. Plant coneflowers along a walkway or in a cluster to add both color and vibrancy to the yard.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vrIgK5EFEKyKcFZdbxDFjSTwoAoMmf76p0dPAK_O7x6AeDydSobidtNx6JkZ91vfAld3I1j7WRSX6ZML-8J7IUNMAAV9bTxAHY5sibhgzTDH35XuhIn18LN1Pzgq7gyH-cG_nVn7\")
There is nothing quite like the stunning color of the purple berries that form on the American beautyberry bush. This native plant will grow to around 5 feet tall in favorable soil conditions. The striking clusters of bright purple berries form along the branches of the plant. The berries attract a wide variety of birds. Unfortunately, deer like to eat its large oval-shaped leaves. We recommend planting this native in a spot where you can enjoy the beautiful colors as well as the birds that will flock to it.
\n\n\n\nMany different species of yucca are native to the Fort Worth area. You’ll find Yucca plants all over in various shades and styles. This hardy plant loves hot Texas weather and is extremely drought tolerant. It can grow in a variety of soil conditions and requires little to no maintenance once established. Mix yucca in with other native plants in your landscape or in a xeriscaped area that features drought-resistant plants.
\n\n\n\nUsing native plants in your landscape will add natural beauty and keep you from having to sweat it out in the yard maintaining the garden. Consider adding any or all of these native plants to your Fort Worth garden this year.
Have more questions about lawn mowing and maintenance in Fort Worth? We got you covered! Go to our Fort Worth, TX lawn care page.
\n","title":"Native Plants for Fort Worth","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/1789c/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/107df/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.jpg 320w,\n/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/293e9/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.jpg 500w,\n/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/f2cbb/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.jpg 800w,\n/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/1789c/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.jpg 960w","srcWebp":"/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/1dd6e/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/67b76/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.webp 320w,\n/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/8df11/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.webp 500w,\n/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/98a65/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.webp 800w,\n/static/0df228058728749ffc726122b5386b4a/1dd6e/Ft-Worth-coneflower-3521669_960_720.webp 960w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Native Plants for Fort Worth | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"How does your garden grow? If you've planted native plants, it flourishes without much work or water. Check out our list of native plants for Fort Worth."}}},{"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":"4d8001f5-0137-51a7-b839-9893bea14c48","slug":"best-grasses-northeast-ohio","path":"/lawn-care/oh/best-grasses-northeast-ohio/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nick Crawford is a blog writer based in Philadelphia. He enjoys writing just as much as he enjoys reading a good book, cooking, and working out in his spare time.","name":"Nick Crawford","id":"5213edde-9943-5767-a5ae-163493ecfae5","path":"/author/nick-crawford/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/7ce3281d49bd9eb99cb1c4f0200247d3?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"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":"May 1st, 2023","excerpt":"With its long, snowy winters and hot summers, Northeast Ohio can be a tough climate for people, animals and plants – lawns included. That doesn’t mean you can’t have a show-stopper of a lawn, though. You just have to choose the right grass and take care of it properly. So, keep that in mind when […]
\n","content":"\nWith its long, snowy winters and hot summers, Northeast Ohio can be a tough climate for people, animals and plants – lawns included. That doesn’t mean you can’t have a show-stopper of a lawn, though. You just have to choose the right grass and take care of it properly.
\n\n\n\nSo, keep that in mind when planting grass in Cleveland, Akron, Youngstown, or any of the other areas near Lake Erie. If you do, you’ll want to be familiar with these four types of grass, all of which make for an excellent Northeast Ohio lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThere are two basic types of grass: warm-season and cool-season grasses. But Northeast Ohio is known for warm summers and cold, snowy winters made worse by the lake effect from Lake Erie. Even the spring and fall can be chilly and rainy. So which is better for this area?
\n\n\n\nHere’s a look at each:
\n\n\n\nBecause of Northeast Ohio’s cooler climate, most homeowners sow their lawns with cool-season grass. You can mix in some warm-season grass seed, but be aware that may require extra effort to take care of it.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to cultivate a gorgeous lawn in Northeast Ohio, these four grass types are among the best places to start.
\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\nOn its own, perennial ryegrass is very hardy and durable, so much so that it’s often used on athletic fields. However, thanks to selective breeding to improve its quality, it has steadily made its way to home lawns nationwide, including here.
\n\n\n\nThe true strength of this cool-season grass is its ability to pair well with other grass types, particularly Kentucky bluegrass. Combining perennial ryegrass with other grasses can increase its tolerance to foot traffic and cold weather while enabling faster germination.
\n\n\n\nIf you live in an area that experiences periods of drought, know that perennial ryegrass requires extra care and water, as it does not withstand dry conditions as well as other grass types. It also doesn’t have the best disease resistance, but a fertilizer heavy on nitrogen can give it the energy to make up for that.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fine-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nFine fescue refers not to a single grass species but to a subspecies of Festuca, including creeping red fescue, hard fescue, sheep fescue, and chewings fescue. These fine-textured turfgrasses can tolerate various soil conditions, including dry and acidic soils. They also grow quite well in the shade.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue grasses germinate quickly but establish slowly, making them ideal for lawns with a low mowing frequency. Most fine fescues are bunching grasses, though creeping red fescue is rhizomatous.
\n\n\n\nWhile fine fescues are very low-maintenance grasses, they go dormant in extreme heat. They also don’t tolerate foot traffic well. However, it’s rare to see any of the fine fescues grown outside of seed mixes.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a coarse bunching turfgrass. It can tolerate drought and heat better than most other cool-season grasses, and you can get away with light irrigation during the typically mild Northeast Ohio summer.
\n\n\n\nWhile this grass prefers as much sun as possible, you can grow it in partial shade. Tall fescue will remain green well into the summer with the proper care, thanks to its extensive root structure.
\n\n\n\nTall fescues grow rapidly during the spring and require more frequent mowing than other grasses. It’s possible to keep tall fescue at a height of three inches to help minimize weeds, but modern cultivars tolerate a shorter mowing just fine.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is one of the most popular turfgrasses in Ohio, for a good reason. This fine-textured, blue-green grass produces rhizomes that spread underground, allowing Kentucky bluegrass to create a thick sod that stands up to foot traffic. While it may go dormant during a drought, it rebounds easily once it gets water.
\n\n\n\nSome cultivars tolerate shade better than others, with the key word being ‘tolerate’. For best performance, you must plant your Kentucky bluegrass in an area where it will get a lot of sunlight. Mixing in other grasses, such as one of the fine fescues for improved shade tolerance, is a common practice with Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nIt can fill in quickly, even during the off-growing season, maintaining a lush appearance. However, that beautiful carpet of fine sod requires higher maintenance than other cool-season grasses. You will need to apply fertilizer heavily when planting it, with less frequent fertilization in subsequent years.
\n\n\n\nEven though many of the cool-season grasses in Northeast Ohio don’t require much maintenance, you still need to put in some work on your lawn. With the proper equipment, an investment of time, and knowledge, you can have a lush green lawn almost all year round. And with the help of a local lawn care pro, you can take the hassle out of maintaining your landscape.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Tim Evanson / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
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