![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/kq_AIQfagk065emPkQKUIrUxJ234Kkp4QOAuctVMg6uuLSZJjIzVtCY9zvqmIj72w11ddOkEnu6LGjQ3NqSmwkCR8y20ygLPZOytt6Spft1y1WT8i5ZB3Y3ESUo_AJtyUhLryX75\")
Landscaping with native plants will save you work and money. Native plants and flowers for Kansas City typically need less maintenance, use less water, and provide a natural habitat for local wildlife.
\n","content":"\nIf you live in Kansas City and are into gardening — you’re lucky! KC straddles the humid subtropical South and the humid continental climate of the North, with cool winters and long, hot summers. So you get the best of both worlds in native plant varieties. Landscaping with native plants will save you work and money. Native plants and flowers for Kansas City typically need less maintenance, use less water, and provide a natural habitat for local wildlife. They’re energy-efficient and eco-friendly as well.
The list of native trees, shrubs, and flowers for KC is long. Let’s start with the choices for flowers when it comes to hardiness and ease of care:
\n\n\n\nIt’s easy to see why Missouri named the white Hawthorne blossom (pictured above) as the official state flower in 1923. This woody plant can reach 20 feet high. It’s beautiful and functional. The fruit makes a tasty jam and provides food for birds and other native critters.
\n\n\n\nOK, so it’s the state flower of Kansas, but what says the plains of the midwest better than the sunflower? This iconic, drought-resistant plant will grow just about anywhere but loves the sunshine on our side of the river. Left on its own, it will spread, so it needs thinning every few years. It’s an excellent plant for borders or along fences.
\n\n\n\nPhoto credit: likeaduck on Visualhunt.com/ CC BY-SA
\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, this plant produces vivid red flowers from July to September. Because that’s the dead of summer, the cardinal flower will do best in the shade. Make sure to give it room. Its blooms can soar 4 feet high.
\n\n\n\nGreat when you need some color in the spring. The flowers are delicate blue, and the plant will stay a vibrant green through the summer and then turn to a nice gold in autumn.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/4C6JRIC2xS9Kff7mqHUtoFzaufz6e3sN8fA4xoxXK_CcFPKD1mwWA94bUOiWlo6R-rtLI2QK3QHOP0CxMSzyhkYHj3z5gL0tAYcLop152QyATFgT3odogsh30oVnicOWknWcgdzR\")
This tube-shaped flower adds a touch of purple to your garden, and butterflies and hummingbirds love it!
\n\n\n\nThis spring perennial gets its name from the early settlers who used it as a substitute for true indigo to make blue dye. The seed capsules are popular in dried arrangements.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/9bYlkNMxKhmw66noYTwuzvC90Yzsdmm3msiqHWBFWMMNtH_TL-52xsjb9WY2kxZUivBeEfpvOAm3H3eLHST7NVzMHIjIN4ffm20EfrZ5NLgQhJbWgAreZ1ZugsKyCyWGzFUijQPj\")
Although KC is on the western fringe of its native habitat, this evergreen fern is a perennial that adds variety to a garden. It also works well in an indoor hanging basket near a sunny window.
\n\n\n\nThe Kansas City Native Plant Initiative has a wealth of information on native plants and flowers to Kansas City. The organization works to encourage gardeners to plant them instead of the invasives which threaten them.
\n\n\n\nWhen settlers came west and cleared the land, they virtually wiped out native shrub species. As towns and cities grew, developers opted for European and Asian shrubs, but now the natives are making a comeback. Our native trees are among the hardiest.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/tk-fmCT8ah6uJL23-fzDIYzwBhmtWRYvCRqHXyalcOTjZop9rTRxPZpg2xyGhqsIXc5i7hCqv_Pdsw1yCZsLN2A_9qBwFRPmsKdC8f8jjINIc7-esrJ8t-FzQ4u_NqqxepYZh599\")
Any discussion of trees must begin with the flowering dogwood, the state tree of Missouri. You’ll find it at the edges of forests and in many neighborhoods. The red mulberry is easy to grow but has a bad reputation for producing juicy berries that stain everything they touch. Male cultivars available in nurseries do not have this trait.
\n\n\n\nThe hardy pecan drops a bountiful crop of nuts after the first freeze, and a sycamore that soars to 100-feet will impress your neighbors. Missouri even has its own magnolia tree called the cucumber tree because it produces blossoms that look like, well — cucumbers!
\n\n\n\nThe fringe tree is sometimes called old man’s beard because of its drooping clusters of white flowers in the spring. Fragrant sumac likes sunshine and tolerates drought well, and hazelnut produces an edible nut. Eastern witch hazel holds the distinction of being the last shrub to bloom in Missouri in November and December.
\n\n\n\nAlthough Kansas City has a wealth of hardy native plants and averages 42 inches of rain per year, the area is susceptible to occasional drought. Summer of 2018 was particularly bad. Winters are generally mild, but periodic extreme temperature dips can hurt plants. Native plants and flowers for Kansas City have acclimated to our climate, and withstand the changes and brighten up your landscape for years to come.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Kansas City? Visit our Kansas City Lawn Care page.
Try as you might, you can’t get every plant to thrive in Central Texas’ humid subtropical climate. Why not give your garden a better chance with Texas native plants? The best native plants for Central Texas are much more likely to be: Remember, Texas is a big state with several different climates. A plant that […]
\n","content":"\nTry as you might, you can’t get every plant to thrive in Central Texas’ humid subtropical climate. Why not give your garden a better chance with Texas native plants? The best native plants for Central Texas are much more likely to be:
\n\n\n\nRemember, Texas is a big state with several different climates. A plant that does well in the Panhandle or East Texas may not do well in Central Texas. Look for plants native to your region for the best results.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a look at some of the best natives for Central Texas.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Ashe-Juniper-Juniperus-ashei.jpg\")
Photo Credit: katsrcool / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCentral Texas has been home to the Ashe juniper for tens of thousands of years, so it certainly qualifies as a native. Its trunk may be twisted or grooved and is covered with shaggy bark, which golden-cheeked warblers use for nests. The branches start low on the trunk, sometimes very close to the ground. Ashe juniper can serve as a shade tree.
\n\n\n\nFemale trees have blue seed cones that look like berries. Small mammals and birds snack on the seed cones, and butterflies visit its small flowers. When leaves drop off this small tree, they create rich, well-drained soil that benefits many local plants. Ashe junipers have a pleasant smell, but you may not enjoy breathing in its plentiful pollen. Anyone with cedar allergies may want to avoid this tree. It also may cause minor illness if ingested.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 30 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, well-drained soils made up of limestone, sand, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Minor toxicity if eaten
\n\n\n\n![\"Flower](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Black-Eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-var.-pulcherrima.jpg\")
Photo Credit: grassrootsgroundswell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nDo you dream of your own personal meadow? Black-eyed Susans will add a lovely pop of color to your Texas landscape with their daisy-like yellow flowers and brown centers. They are native to 48 U.S. states and can bloom from spring to fall. Black-eyed Susans attract monarch butterflies and host silvery checkerspot larvae.
\n\n\n\nThough black-eyes Susans can survive in many conditions, they do best in full sun with dry, sandy soils. These flowering plants are safe for humans and pets, though they may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if eaten.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2 to 11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Can grow in most soil types but prefers dry and sandy soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Not poisonous to humans, but can be a skin irritant or cause allergic reactions if consumed; could be poisonous to grazing animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Bunch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Blackfoot-Daisy-Melampodium-leucanthum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zbigniew Niepokój / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as plains blackfoot, this flower is native to prairies and meadows. These low, bushy plants produce 8 to 13 flowerheads per plant in spring and summer. Blackfoot daisies are white with a yellow center and smell like honey. Their nectar attracts bees, butterflies, and insects, while the seeds appeal to birds.
\n\n\n\nBlackfoot daisy is relatively heat, drought, and deer-resistant. You can encourage more flowers with rich soil and abundant water, but this will likely result in a shorter lifespan. This flower is popular for rock gardens since it prefers rocky and sandy soils. It’s also a good choice for dog owners since it’s safe for pets and humans.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4a to 11b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6 to 12 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers acidic, dry, rocky, gravelly, and sandy soils that are well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cardinal-Flower-Lobelia-cardinalis.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: linnaeus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nLike the bird it shares a name with, these flowers are brilliant red. They attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Cardinal flowers die back in winter, but the shiny leaves resist cold. This plant is a good candidate for container gardens or border plantings. Watch out for snails and slugs which may wish to make a meal of the foliage.
\n\n\n\nCardinal flowers are generally low-maintenance. However, they will require frequent watering to maintain the moist soil they prefer. Some afternoon shade will shield them from the heat and prevent them from drying out. While historically used for medicine, all parts of the plant are poisonous. It’s not the best choice for parents or pet owners.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3a to 9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Can be toxic if large quantities are eaten
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Flame-Acanthus-Anisacanthus-quadrifidus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Earl McGehee / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as Mexican flame or hummingbird bush, this deciduous shrub is native to Central and South Texas. Its red-orange tubular flowers bloom from summer to fall and are especially prolific when it rains. Flame acanthus attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, hosting janais patch and Texan crescentspot larvae. Its bark is exfoliating, and its light-green leaves have a spearhead shape.
\n\n\n\nFlame acanthus is native to areas with rocky, calcareous soils but can adapt to heavier soils. Since it is drought and heat tolerant, it does well in xeriscapes. You can use it in landscapes, pots, and dense, low hedges.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained sand, clay, loam, caliche, or limestone
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Halberd-Leaved-Rose-Mallow-Hibiscus-laevis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrew C / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhether you call it a rose-mallow or hibiscus, this flowering plant adds a tropical charm to your garden. Though it resembles various imported hibiscus, the halberd-leaved rose-mallow is native to marshes in North Central Texas. The pink or white flowers bloom between May and November, opening in the daytime and closing at night.
\n\n\n\nHalberd-leaved rose-mallows are low-maintenance with few insect and disease problems. They are excellent border plants for rain, butterfly, or pollinator gardens. They also do well on properties near ponds and streams. If you want to plant more, you can collect seeds in the summer from your existing plants. This type of hibiscus is safe for humans, dogs, and cats.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4a to 9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates wet, acidic, sand, loam, or clay soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lemon-Beebalm-Monarda-citriodora.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Hayes / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLemon mint or beebalm gets its name from its citrusy smell. White, lavender, or pink flowers encircle the stem, blooming in spring, summer, and sometimes fall. Bees love this plant, but so do hummingbirds and butterflies. It’s also edible for humans — use the leaves in salad, tea, or other culinary creations.
\n\n\n\nSince it’s an annual, lemon beebalm will die off each year, though it can reseed itself. However, its aggressive growth can be a double-edged sword if you want to keep it contained. It’s a good choice for backyard meadows and edible gardens. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4a to 9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 4 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, sandy, loamy, rocky, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Pink-Evening-Primrose-Oenothera-speciosa.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: ZooFari / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThis plant produces fragrant pink or white cup-shaped flowers. Though the name suggests pink evening primroses flower in the evening, they usually open in the morning in the American South. They also tend to be darker pink than northern populations. Pink evening primrose can bloom whenever temperatures are above freezing, but each flower only lasts a day. The flowers attract bees and birds, especially finches.
\n\n\n\nThis species is hardy and drought-resistant, but flowers will be smaller during dry spells. It may also go dormant if soils dry up entirely in summer — water sparingly to prevent this. Pink evening primroses are an excellent dense ground cover for xeriscapes, though they may aggressively spread if you aren’t careful. They will only bloom if in full sunlight. Though this plant is generally low-maintenance, you can fertilize it in spring to encourage flowering.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained soils that are dry, moist, fertile, poor, loamy, clay, sandy, or gravely
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Purple-Coneflower-Echinacea-sp.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThese flowers look like purple daisies, each with its own stem. The flowers bloom from June to October and attract butterflies and bees. Though many species share a common name, Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia are the best fits for Texas.
\n\n\n\nPurple coneflower’s low-maintenance, drought tolerance, and summer flowers make it a welcome addition to Texas gardens in groupings or borders. They also look lovely when cut for a vase or bouquet. Though purple coneflowers have few disease and pest problems, Japanese beetles may eat their leaves and flowers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3a to 8b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 4 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun but tolerates light shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Fertile, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: May cause allergic reactions if consumed
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Rock-Rose-Pavonia-lasiopetala.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\nWhile it may not be a traditional rose, this ornamental shrub still rocks. The rock rose blooms from spring until the first frost. The pink flowers attract various pollinators. When not in bloom, you can enjoy its dark green leaves with a frosted appearance. Use in flower beds, border plantings, rock gardens, or xeriscapes.
\n\n\n\nThough it’s native to the Hill Country, Texas A&M AgriLife Research has designated this shrub a Texas Superstar due to its versatility throughout the state. Rock roses can handle several types and tolerate sun, heat, and drought. It’s also easy to propagate, accessible, and affordable. Though this evergreen shrub tolerates shady areas, it will bloom less and be more susceptible to powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Small shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 13
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 4 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to light shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained soils of various fertility and pH levels
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Standing-Cypress-Ipomopsis-rubra.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nThese plants live up to their name — they stand up straight and tall, showing off tubular red, orange, or yellow flowers on stiff stems. They can grow up to 6 feet tall but are usually shorter. The opening of the standing cypress flower resembles a star. These flowers are great for ornamental or hummingbird gardens.
\n\n\n\nStanding cypress is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Since this plant is biennial, you must replant it to enjoy it for more than two years. It will develop in the first year and flower in the second, so plant them yearly if you want flowers every season. You can prune stalks that are done blooming to encourage new growth and flowering.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Biennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, well-drained sand, loam, or limestone
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides.jpg\")
Photo Credit: sonnia hill / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nDo you need a drought-resistant ground cover with few pest and disease problems? Texas lantana produces round clusters of yellow, orange, and red flowers. Your local butterfly and hummingbird population will feed on its nectar, and birds will snack on its black seeds. Texas lantana blooms from spring until the first frost, then dies back. You can protect this plant from the cold with mulch.
\n\n\n\nYou can occasionally prune Texas lantanas during the growing season to encourage new flower growth, but be warned — this plant’s leaves release an unpleasant odor when pruned or crinkled. Its toxicity makes it deer-resistant, but you must also be careful around it if you have pets or children. Consuming any part of these native shrubs could be fatal.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates many soil types but prefers well-drained sandy and gravelly soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All parts are poisonous if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Texas-Prickly-Pear-Opuntia-engelmannii-var.-lindheimeri.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William L. Farr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe Texas prickly pear is common in Central and South Texas. This succulent has a good heat tolerance and does better the more south you go. It can grow tall or form spread-out thickets up to 8 feet across. Bowl-shaded red, yellow, or orange flowers bloom in June. From July to September, those flowers will produce red to purple fruits called tuna.
\n\n\n\nThe prickly pear fruit and pads are edible for humans and animals, but the older pads may cause oxalic acid poisoning. You should also watch out for the spines and barbed bristles. They are difficult to remove from your skin, so this plant may not be suitable for curious children and pets.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Succulent or shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 9 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry soils with acidic or neutral pH
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Painful spines and bards; oxalic acid poisoning from consuming old prickly pear pads
\n\n\n\n![\"Small](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Texas-Sage-Salvia-texana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Gideon Pisanty / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nBring the prairie to your home with Texas sage. This plant is native to the well-drained limestone soils in Texas and Mexico. The delicate, purple-blue blooms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds while releasing a fragrant scent. The flowers bloom from March through May.
\n\n\n\nTexas sage can survive many challenges nature sends its way. It’s resistant to cold, heat, drought, and deer. It does well when used as a ground cover or in xeriscapes. Pair Texas sage with other purple flowers and short prairie grasses.
\n\n\n\nNote: Another Texas native, Leucophyllum frutescens, shares the name Texas sage but is also called Texas barometer bush or cenizo.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a to 9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 24 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained and alkaline soils that are sandy or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\n![\"Many](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Sundrops-Calylophus-serrulatus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Patrick Standish / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nSometimes called yellow evening primrose or plains evening primrose, this plant will bring sunshine into your life with its cheery four-petaled flowers. Sundrops bloom from April until July, though the loveliest flowers appear at the beginning of the season. The rest of the plant is bushy with thin leaves.
\n\n\n\nSince its native habitat is plains and prairies, this plant does well in hot, dry weather. It tolerates many conditions and fits xeriscapes or rock gardens well. For the best growth, cut back in the spring and apply mulch in winter for cold protection.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower or herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8 to 30 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry and well-drained; tolerates clay, loam, and sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\nThe easiest way to gauge a plant’s suitability for your area is to check its USDA Hardiness Zone. The USDA Hardiness Zone measures the annual minimum temperature in an area. Central Texas falls in zones 7b to 8b, which experiences temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. If a plant falls within these zones, it can likely tolerate the temperatures in the area.
\n\n\n\nTemperature and hardiness zone aren’t everything. Soil conditions also affect a plant’s growth ability. Though general soil maps can provide some information, a soil test will give you the best idea of your garden bed’s texture and nutrient content. Other microclimate factors affecting plant growth include moisture, salinity, and sun or shade levels.
\n\n\n\nThe last but most important consideration is your personal preferences. Do you want flowering, edible, or pet-safe plants? How much time do you have for maintenance? Though most native plants are low-maintenance, some may require additional pruning, irrigation, and fertilization to get the results you want.
\n\n\n\nThe following drought-tolerant plants need less water than most:
• Blackfoot daisy
• Flame acanthus
• Lemon beebalm
• Rock rose
• Texas lantana
• Texas prickly pear
• Texas sage
If you want a native groundcover, consider the following from our plant list:
• Pink evening primrose
• Texas lantana
• Texas sage
The best turfgrasses for Central Texas are:
• Bermudagrass
• Buffalograss
• St. Augustinegrass
• Texas bluegrass
• Buffalograss
Do you need help jumpstarting your native plant landscape design? Whether you live in Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, or any other Texas city, our landscaping professionals can do the heavy lifting and provide expert advice.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo By: Pixabay
\n","title":"15 Best Native Plants for Central Texas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/1789c/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/107df/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/293e9/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/f2cbb/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/1789c/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/c26c2/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/1dd6e/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/67b76/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.webp 320w,\n/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/8df11/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.webp 500w,\n/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/98a65/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.webp 800w,\n/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/1dd6e/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.webp 960w,\n/static/9c98c00f859734b123a02fb86abb8f6c/3cc96/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"15 Best Native Plants for Central Texas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want to embrace Texas’ natural beauty? The best native plants for Central Texas are low-maintenance and good for the ecosystem."}}},{"node":{"id":"3b008ef6-4054-5eca-bac5-192a19ae962b","slug":"the-worst-bugs-in-austin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/the-worst-bugs-in-austin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"Living in a lush city with mild winters feels like heaven… until the armies of pests begin to congregate in yards, on patios, and around pools, waiting for their chance to ruin your day. The creepy crawly, not to mention bitey and stingy contingent of this corner of the world can’t help it. They’re thirsty […]
\n","content":"\nLiving in a lush city with mild winters feels like heaven… until the armies of pests begin to congregate in yards, on patios, and around pools, waiting for their chance to ruin your day. The creepy crawly, not to mention bitey and stingy contingent of this corner of the world can’t help it. They’re thirsty for water, blood, or just trying to defend their turf (even if it happens to be yours), and they need to go. Here’s a quick guide to the worst bugs in Austin and how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nAnyone who’s ever wandered into fire ant territory in sandals can tell you they’re the worst pest in Texas. And that’s a tall order in a state crawling with venomous critters. Fire ants top this list because of their aggression and their uncanny ability to show up en mass where you don’t want them. Picnic? You can count on these invasive ants to be there. Veggie garden? Check! Kitchen counter courtesy of any gap in a window or door? You betcha!
\n\n\n\nGetting rid of fire ants is a process. So take a deep breath and start early in the spring, as soon as you see them building their mounds. The “two-step method” involves baiting the ant mounds between August and September. Next, after a few weeks have passed, the individual mounds are spot-treated. Baiting mounds isn’t a good idea for families with young children. In that case, a non-toxic method such as orange oil or boiling water applied to mounds may be preferable.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/lLCUlMvzdzrz-l86U0KVD-wCIhPeDvLw5jKUfC8G_bTnPh_VA9K1tUTxIr39ew_m548d9xWQtqzzs2rjvw9yoZ3Gv_u3DWhdwK7ihiPWtnBOECQIeZSa2rFi1RNzL6QBaQ1KSW8G\")
Known as water roaches, tree roaches, or just terrifying monsters that need to get out of the house, palmetto bugs are harmless, but hated insects. These most unwelcome visitors are drawn by food, water, and places they can easily hide. If you have a palmetto bug issue, your first plan of action must be to determine where they’re’ coming from. If you have a compost pile close to your home, this is a likely source. Wood piles and mounds of leaves are likely hangout spots as well.
\n\n\n\nEliminating any cozy places where wood or leaves are decomposing will help give these guys the boot. If they’re coming into your house, identify and seal any gaps or cracks where they’re entering. Try sprinkling boric acid around sills where you suspect they’re lurking.
\n\n\n\nThese bloodsuckers are a stealthy menace, quietly biting us at dusk– when we’re the least likely to see them. Mosquitoes are both annoying and dangerous carriers for tropical diseases. We do have a number of methods for deterring them, beginning with preventing them from breeding in the first place.
\n\n\n\nMake sure there are no containers of standing water anywhere near your home (our friends in Florida know all about this tip). This includes changing the water in bird baths, fountains, and potted plant trays each week. Rain barrels should have screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering and laying eggs. Place an agitator in all water features. Mosquitoes will only lay eggs in still water.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKeep shrubs trimmed and tidy. Plant basil, marigolds, petunias and lavender to repel the pests. The scent of these flowers really bugs mosquitoes. Installing an outdoor fan can keep mosquitoes from crashing your parties as well. Wearing light-colored clothing and avoiding the outdoors during dawn and dusk are also good ways to avoid their bites.
\n\n\n\nThe mild climate around Austin and Round Rock is just as attractive to these nasty pests as it is to us. In addition to all of the tips above, maintaining a tidy lawn and landscape is one of the best ways to repel the worst bugs in Austin.
\n\n\n\nHave more questions about pest control and prevention in your lawn? Visit our Austin, TX lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
\n","title":"The Worst Bugs in Austin and How to Get Rid of them","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.16580310880829,"src":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/5d440/fireants.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/107df/fireants.jpg 320w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/293e9/fireants.jpg 500w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/f2cbb/fireants.jpg 800w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/5d440/fireants.jpg 900w","srcWebp":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/e342a/fireants.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/67b76/fireants.webp 320w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/8df11/fireants.webp 500w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/98a65/fireants.webp 800w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/e342a/fireants.webp 900w","sizes":"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Worst Bugs in Austin and How to Get Rid of them | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Are the bugs really bugging you this summer? Take a look at this list of the worst bugs in Austin and how to get rid of them."}}},{"node":{"id":"a34e55ba-1d87-5875-b0d3-f4db65c53f93","slug":"best-native-plants-baltimore","path":"/lawn-care/md/baltimore/best-native-plants-baltimore/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Ayoola Azzan is a versatile writer and investment enthusiast who hails from Nigeria. He loves developing an impactful course and enjoys meditating when at leisure.","name":"Ayoola Azzan","id":"bbad4bd5-6d15-5dbd-a18e-a835dfd091f5","path":"/author/ayoola-azzan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/bd07aedf4f4c15974bb501275dee93ce?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d65d5975-f3bf-56a0-86b3-804de72f0ba7","name":"Baltimore","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/md/baltimore/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"2a5e33f9-ad47-575e-b414-2fa0c9049fd1","name":"Maryland","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/md/"}],"date":"April 5th, 2023","excerpt":"There’s a reason that Baltimore has some of the most beautiful parks on the Eastern seaboard. It’s located in a temperate climate that supports an incredible array of plants. But you don’t have to go to a park to experience all this natural beauty, though. Carefully landscaping your Baltimore yard with native plants gives you […]
\n","content":"\nThere’s a reason that Baltimore has some of the most beautiful parks on the Eastern seaboard. It’s located in a temperate climate that supports an incredible array of plants.
\n\n\n\nBut you don’t have to go to a park to experience all this natural beauty, though. Carefully landscaping your Baltimore yard with native plants gives you the best chance at establishing a yard that is both visually appealing and hardy.
\n\n\n\nBut why native plants?
\n\n\n\nFinding native plants that thrive in the garden can be difficult, as not all are suitable. That’s why we have compiled a list of 11 native plants for your Baltimore home and garden project.
\n\n\n\nWhat we’ll cover in this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Wild](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/5992418976_285495a522_c-646x485.jpg\")
Photo Credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWild bergamot, also known as bee balm, is a popular ornamental perennial that produces clusters of lavender, pink or white flowers. It is one of the easiest wildflowers to grow, with beautiful blooms that last from mid to late summer. With its mint-scented leaves, bergamot is great for mint tea and bouquets.
\n\n\n\nMonarda fistulosa is very appealing to butterflies, hummingbirds, and native bees, which are helpful pollinators—probably why it is also called bee balm. This plant tolerates most soils and a partial shade to full sun location but should not be watered to avoid powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1.5 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Can range from light to deep green to red or purple tinted
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/image-76.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: rockerBOO / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nNamed for the bright red color of the Roman Catholic cardinal’s robe, the cardinal flower is recognizable from a distance. It is very hardy, easy to care for, and simple to grow. It blooms for a long time and boasts an intense red color when other perennials are withering. Although the cardinal flower can tolerate full sun or light shade, it is most likely to thrive in filtered light.
\n\n\n\nThis showy perennial is common in Baltimore in marshes, stream banks, and low woods and is favored by hummingbird species for its sweet nectar.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Can range from light to deep green to red or purple tinted
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, moist
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if eaten in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"colorful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly milkweed, also known as chigger flower, orange milkweed, and pleurisy root, is a colorful native flower that makes a wonderful addition to butterfly gardens, rain gardens, native plantings, prairies, and home gardens. When in bloom (often from May to September), it is easily identified by the flat-topped clusters of large, bright orange flowers at the top.
\n\n\n\nTo thrive, this plant requires direct sunlight. However, it can grow in any soil if it is well-drained, although it prefers sandy soils. As its name suggests, butterfly milkweed serves as a vital host plant, attracting swarms of butterflies.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Leaves turn a dull yellow in the fall
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, loamy, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/rsz_chelone_glabra_-_white_turtlehead.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nTurtlehead, a perennial wildflower of the plantain family, takes its name from its distinctive flowers, which resemble the head of a turtle. The leaves are green, but the flowers are pinkish-purple and bloom between mid-summer and fall.
\n\n\n\nTurtleheads thrive in moist places in any landscape but are also hardy enough to grow in dry soils. They look best when planted in masses, so it’s best to plant them in groups rather than individually.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, sandy, loamy, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"clusters](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/rsz_1024px-viburnum_dentatum_1zz.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThis native shrub has the charm and hardiness for a wide range of climates, so it will fit into any landscape. It displays a massive showy bloom from late spring to late summer with flat-topped creamy-white flowers and blue-hued berries that are attractive to birds and wildlife. It’s a great species for beautification, wildlife habitat, and gardens or hedges.
\n\n\n\nSpeaking of care, the Southern arrowwood shrub is relatively low maintenance due to its adaptability to a variety of soil conditions and locations and has no severe plant or disease problems. The medicinal properties of arrowwood have been known for a long time. Historically, all parts of the plant have been used in various preparations to help heal the body.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Leaves turn shades of yellow, red, or orange
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial sun, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, sandy, loamy,
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/columbine-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWild red columbine, also known as Eastern or Canadian columbine, is known for its stunning bell-shaped bloom of red and yellow flowers that appear from late spring to early summer. The beautiful blooms, easy growth, and all-around charm of this native plant make it suitable for home gardens.
\n\n\n\nWhile the toxicity of wild red columbine makes it of little value to most herbivores as a food source, its nectar and foliage provide food for bees, hummingbirds, and insects. As a self-seeding perennial, it spreads more quickly, making it an excellent ground cover.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial sun, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, sandy, loamy,
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, average
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Partly toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"four](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/rsz_1024px-smooth_blue_aster_symphyotrichum_laeve_washington_island_wisconsin.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis herbaceous perennial is one of the most attractive of the asters, and its smooth leaves set it apart from other asters. It is cold-hardy and continues to thrive even after other plants have faded. It boasts delicate lavender-blue flowers that bloom from August through November and daisy-like petals that give your landscape a whimsical and charming look.
\n\n\n\nMany pollinating insects are attracted to the smooth blue aster, and birds enjoy the seeds. It’s occasionally affected by rot or blight, but simple measures such as growing it in well-drained soil and careful watering can prevent these diseases.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Yellow flower-center reddish later in the season
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial sun, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, sandy, loamy,
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, average
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"small](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/rsz_pixnio-18980-800x518-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nNamed bluestem goldenrod for its bluish-purple stem, this plant features showy clusters of yellow flowers clinging to greenish-purple stems in late summer and fall. A mature bunch provides an excellent presence and brightens any semi-shaded garden in the late season.
\n\n\n\nBlue-stemmed goldenrod is low-maintenance, easy to grow, and isn’t very demanding on soil conditions; it thrives in clay, loam, organic soils, or almost any soil with dry to moderate moisture. This species doesn’t spread as quickly or as aggressively as other goldenrods. It does well in perennial borders, native gardens, cottage gardens, butterfly gardens, or woodland gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 3.5 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial sun, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/black-eyed-susan-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan, also called cornflower because of its corn-shaped head, is seen all over the U.S. but remains Maryland’s state flower. It blooms in the sweltering days of August, brightening flower gardens and open fields like a brilliant sunbeam.
\n\n\n\nThe bright colors of the lemon yellow, orange, and gold flowers bloom for weeks with little maintenance. Black-eyed Susan is relatively easy to grow, spreads quickly (if given space), and is loved by a variety of pollinating insects.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1.5 to 10 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; sap can irritate the skin
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/grass-green-leaf-terrestrial-plant-plant-close-up-1600603-pxhere.com_-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nBlue sedge is prized for its unique, stacked form and attractive grass-like leaves that stay steel blue year-round. Its foliage provides a stunning display with its varying textures and distinctive shades of color. Blue sedge is drought tolerant, low maintenance, easy to transplant, and a great addition to borders, rock gardens, ponds, and stream edgings.
\n\n\n\nIt grows best in groups as it forms clumps, making it an excellent ground cover. Move blue sedge until it finds its ideal terrain, as it thrives in shade, sometimes even better than the sun.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ground cover
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 1.5 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial sun, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, moist
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"frond](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/rsz_1024px-cinnamon_fern.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Cody Hough / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe cinnamon fern is a large, widespread fern that grows in clumps. It has fertile, feathery, cinnamon-colored fronds that grow in the center of the plant. Its fronds are beautiful when they first appear in the spring and turn bright shades of gold and orange in the fall.
\n\n\n\nThe cinnamon fern thrives in the shade and adapts well to garden conditions, but only if kept moist. Perfect for rain gardens or conservation gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Fern
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial sun, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, moist, rich, humusy, acidic
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nIt’s important to carefully consider the ecosystem when choosing native plants. Before you buy, find out what already works in your soil, sun conditions, temperatures, and moisture to get the best results.
\n\n\n\nFor a city like Baltimore, whose Hardiness Zone range is between 7a and 8a (0–15 degrees Fahrenheit), it’s clear that overwintering is inevitable. So choosing any of the perennials mentioned above for your garden puts homeowners in a safe zone because these plants withstand both the colder winter months and the sunnier summer months.
\n\n\n\nYou can purchase various native plants for your garden and landscaping projects at your local nursery. Check with the Maryland Native Plant Society rather than threatening the plants with extinction by taking them from the wild.
If you want to know more about these plants or other things that could make your lawn healthier, get in touch with our Baltimore lawn care professionals, who will educate you on the latest lawn and garden techniques.
Main Image Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for Your Baltimore Yard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/1789c/Baltimore-Native-plant.jpg","srcSet":"/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/107df/Baltimore-Native-plant.jpg 320w,\n/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/293e9/Baltimore-Native-plant.jpg 500w,\n/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/f2cbb/Baltimore-Native-plant.jpg 800w,\n/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/1789c/Baltimore-Native-plant.jpg 960w,\n/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/c26c2/Baltimore-Native-plant.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/1dd6e/Baltimore-Native-plant.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/67b76/Baltimore-Native-plant.webp 320w,\n/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/8df11/Baltimore-Native-plant.webp 500w,\n/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/98a65/Baltimore-Native-plant.webp 800w,\n/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/1dd6e/Baltimore-Native-plant.webp 960w,\n/static/184ab2381f745b1449ded65b78709ba6/3cc96/Baltimore-Native-plant.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for Your Baltimore Yard | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Beautify your Baltimore garden with diverse, colorful native shrubs, flowers, and trees that work well with the city’s climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"d83f622e-8d9b-5590-8f22-0eca0edf7db0","slug":"lawn-aeration-diy-vs-hiring-professional","path":"/blog/lawn-aeration-diy-vs-hiring-professional/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"bf4daca3-f477-56c4-b0f9-b212905a3b28","name":"Tools, Apps & Accessories","count":6,"path":"/category/garden-accessories/"}],"date":"October 3rd, 2019","excerpt":"The rules of lawn care are pretty simple: Mow and water regularly, spread enough fertilizer to keep it fed, and aerate as needed. The last part, though is tricky. You have to know when and how to aerate and make sure you poke enough holes in your lawn to let it breathe. Should you do […]
\n","content":"\nThe rules of lawn care are pretty simple: Mow and water regularly, spread enough fertilizer to keep it fed, and aerate as needed.
\n\n\n\nThe last part, though is tricky. You have to know when and how to aerate and make sure you poke enough holes in your lawn to let it breathe. Should you do it yourself, or are you better off hiring a professional? Here are the pros and cons of DIY lawn aeration vs. hiring a professional.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/n7T7g8yk7QfRDitctwYmrgWDu6JdJtS1R0C6zsHPi2CqZ9RNjN6BBQnT5-QVR1pCoIRVR0NIdYzubLglXEQpi4QTZiEsENmgcnxo2QBiuAJQkv6glwSjZgUJszbfVs-5V6LfWSAB\")
Your lawn may need to be aerated for any of several reasons. First among them: compaction, when the soil particles are pressed together into a smaller area. Soil compaction leaves less room for air and water to get to the roots.
\n\n\n\nIt is common in areas that have clay soil, or on new lawns where construction activity tamps down the soil, or any lawn that gets a lot of foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nA thick layer of thatch can also be a reason to aerate. Thatch is the natural organic matter between the soil and the green blades of grass. A little thatch is necessary and healthy for your lawn. Too much thatch can lead to pest problems and prevent water and air from getting to the grass roots. If your lawn feels spongy underfoot, you may have too much thatch. Bend low and inspect: If the matted brown layer under your green grass blades is more than a half-inch, you may need to aerate.
\n\n\n\nAeration removes pokes holes in your lawn, allowing precious air and water to get down into the roots. It can also loosen the soil, and encourage the grass roots to grow deeper and spread, making your lawn healthier.
\n\n\n\nAerate during the peak of your lawn’s growing season. Cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass should be aerated in the spring, and early fall, but warm-season grasses such as St. Augustinegrass need aerating in the late spring or early summer.
\n\n\n\nStart with soil that’s not too dry. Aerating the day after a rain, or after watering is best.
\n\n\n\nDon’t clean up the plugs of soil; leave them to break down and return the nutrients to the soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/k-jhjtyFGEXEpnZYMsxHJAP0MvwGNvbruiJLtgNXHdTy7dA6iCG63p4G2fBrzGfnYqwtgt2H81pJTYu34PljU1DA_fPDfSXwcG11H5VYGaT0nT6yrJ2_t3soyyvPGXa_T6spIX--\")
If you do it yourself, you have a choice of aeration techniques. Some are engine-powered machines, some simple tools. All of them share one essential task: poking holes in your lawn.
\n\n\n\nExperts consider core aerators to be superior. Core aeration machines can be purchased or rented for the day or the weekend to get the job done. This will pull out plugs of thatch and soil, allowing oxygen to get down to the roots. Core aeration is also a must in clay soil, where the soil compacts easily. Pulling the plugs out of the ground is the best way to achieve a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nA spike aerator punches holes in your lawn with solid metal tines. You can even find spike aerators that strap onto your shoes. This allows you to march around your lawn, sans machine.
\n\n\n\nThis last point is crucial because it could save you from making an expensive mistake.
\n\n\n\nDr. Kevin Frank with the Michigan State University Extension Department on Crop and Soil Sciences warns, “Also be aware of any other underground lines, e.g., invisible dog fence wire. These lines should be buried deep enough to avoid any trouble, but it never hurts to double-check.”
\n\n\n\nWhether you do it yourself, or you have a lawn service aerate, you will be performing a task vital to your lawn’s health. Every living being on the planet needs oxygen and water to survive, and your grass is no different. Aeration provides the roots of your lawn access to both, leaving your lawn greener, thicker and more beautiful.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: Wikimedia, CC 3.0
\n","title":"Lawn Aeration: DIY Vs. Hiring a Professional","featured_media":null,"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Aeration: DIY Vs. Hiring a Professional | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"dea735f1-8417-59bb-8b16-08da260113d3","slug":"tips-winter-lawn-care","path":"/lawn-care/tips-winter-lawn-care/","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":"October 25th, 2019","excerpt":"Winter may seem like the off-season for lawn care, but that’s not entirely true. There are a few things you can do as colder weather approaches to help your lawn thrive when it gets warm. Winter Lawn Prep Fertilize (cool-season grass). Aerate. Overseed. Mow. Clear the lawn of debris. Minimize foot traffic. When to Fertilize […]
\n","content":"\nWinter may seem like the off-season for lawn care, but that’s not entirely true. There are a few things you can do as colder weather approaches to help your lawn thrive when it gets warm.
\n\n\n\nWhen to fertilize before winter and which fertilizer to use, depends on what type of grass you have. Fall is the best time to fertilize cool-season grasses like fescue and bluegrass. Cool-season grasses grow best in regions with cold winters and hot summers. They’re very common in the upper two-thirds of the United States. Their active growth seasons are spring and fall. Because of this, fall is a great time to fertilize. Some lawn experts recommend two fertilizations in the fall: one in early fall to take advantage of the growing season, then another in late fall, heading into winter An option for the late fall application is a winterizing fertilizer or winterizer. These blends are higher in potassium, which helps make plants more tolerant of the cold. They also contain quick-release nitrogen so the grass can absorb more of it. Apply winterizer in late October or early November, or when the grass has stopped growing but is still green. The fertilizer will stay in the soil and nourish the roots during the winter months.
\n\n\n\nIf you have warm-season grass (Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysiagrass), don’t use winterizing lawn fertilizer. These grasses are more common in the lower third of the United States, where it doesn’t get as cold. You don’t want to encourage growth with a fertilizer right before your grass goes dormant for the winter. Warm-season grasses grow most actively in the summer, so fertilize them in the spring or summer instead.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to aerate is right before your area’s first frost. Aerating allows your lawn to breathe before its long winter’s nap. It’ll also help break up any compacted soil that developed during spring and summer. Once you loosen the compacted soil, air, water, and nutrients can better reach the roots. You can rent an aerator or get a lawn service to do it.
\n\n\n\nOverseeding the dead spots and thinning patches after you aerate allows new grass seed to germinate during the winter months. The type of grass seed you use depends on your existing lawn. You want to be careful not to use too much and to spread the seed evenly. You won’t get a thicker lawn by using too much. This will only cause the seed to struggle and compete for nutrients in the soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GFPgxzRE6hetqS0ORPqNbAiFsiXEMrIJk7ZEk1_lXQTKs0j-nOsTTOb_EVJucY8f4vlIBN0JvJOx-FWZLd4NBHueQ6CEOJyksF58BHOt8oDw_Iujgr1JTAeixg4jfn9iKyuxgKw8\")
Starting in late summer or early fall, lower the blade height on your mower each time you mow. This allows you to gradually cut your grass shorter ahead of winter. Cutting it off all at once can weaken or kill your grass, so only cut the top third of the blade during each mowing session.
\n\n\n\nA shorter lawn will fare better over the winter. It’ll be harder for animals like field mice to burrow in your lawn for warmth. It’ll also help prevent snow mold in areas that get a lot of snow. The Utah State University Extension Department defines snow mold as “fungi that are classified as psychrophilic, or cold-loving, and will attack plants under a layer of snow.” Lawn experts recommend a low-nitrogen lawn fertilizer in late fall to help prevent snow mold.
\n\n\n\nClear your lawn of debris, toys, lawn furniture, and other items before winter begins. Anything you leave on the lawn could damage or kill the grass. This could leave thinner grass or noticeable brown spots in the spring. It’s also a good idea to rake. Dead leaves will become a soggy mess after the first snowfall, leaving you with snow mold in the spring. Mulch your leaves by running your lawn mower over them. This will shred them into smaller pieces, allowing them to decompose into the soil without matting and smothering your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gI9CNa8Wip91PvMiJ7x2TKX2nuSx8ZjF8lDvUiHa83y6WE5irccQ_dTWqb8kw6y4h5tJFvqLDJo90Xaalt1MSrpbiLCsN_Vf20rcZbU6MceWG4QNps6GeLzhZbHycwZBvfu2MT2L\")
While you don’t need to stay off your lawn entirely during the winter, do what you can to avoid creating worn paths through the grass. Keep driveways, walkways, and sidewalks clear of ice and snow so people won’t have to cut through your yard.
\n\n\n\nA good winter lawn care strategy is to maintain a healthy lawn throughout the year. A healthy lawn is better able to brave the colder temperatures, so stay on top of lawn maintenance year-round. Once you’ve completed these winter lawn care duties, you can ease up during the cold weather. Next spring, you’ll be more likely to have a thick, green lawn thanks to your pre-winter efforts.
\n","title":"Tips for Winter Lawn Care","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5005861664712778,"src":"/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/1789c/grass-549064_1280.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/107df/grass-549064_1280.jpg 320w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/293e9/grass-549064_1280.jpg 500w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/f2cbb/grass-549064_1280.jpg 800w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/1789c/grass-549064_1280.jpg 960w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/356ef/grass-549064_1280.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/1dd6e/grass-549064_1280.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/67b76/grass-549064_1280.webp 320w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/8df11/grass-549064_1280.webp 500w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/98a65/grass-549064_1280.webp 800w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/1dd6e/grass-549064_1280.webp 960w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/93f70/grass-549064_1280.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Tips for Winter Lawn Care | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"12079b63-c350-5089-acfb-b5b85faa5833","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-corpus-christi","path":"/lawn-care/tx/corpus-christi/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-corpus-christi/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"bce60eef-f246-5798-b50e-2cd265e2d7a4","name":"Corpus Christi","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/corpus-christi/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"Southeast Texas town, Corpus Christi, and its seven barrier islands are well-versed in hurricane preparedness. Historically, Texans can expect a tropical cyclone to make landfall along a 50-mile segment of its coast once every six years. While these odds may sound good, the only state that has experienced more hurricanes in its history is Florida. […]
\n","content":"\nSoutheast Texas town, Corpus Christi, and its seven barrier islands are well-versed in hurricane preparedness. Historically, Texans can expect a tropical cyclone to make landfall along a 50-mile segment of its coast once every six years. While these odds may sound good, the only state that has experienced more hurricanes in its history is Florida.
\n\n\n\nLike residents of the Sunshine State, Southeast Texans know it pays to be prepared, especially with homes and yards. Here are some hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas to help you prepare your landscape for the Texas hurricane season.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n10 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Corpus Christi
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Corpus Christi Landscaping
\n\n\n\n![\"large](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/rsz_8981885395_5d7589d6b6_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: denisbin / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe recognized hurricane wind scale has five categories, ranging from Category 1 “some damage” up to Category 5 “catastrophic.” All it takes is sustained winds of 90 mph or more to uproot large trees, and even Category 1 hurricanes sustain winds between 74 to 95 mph. With 21% of all U.S. hurricanes making landfall in Texas, it is important to plant wind-resistant trees to protect your home and neighborhood from flying branches and falling trees.
\n\n\n\nAccording to Texas A&M, wind-resistant Corpus Christi tree species include:
\n\n\n\nTrees to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of wind-resistant trees:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The average cost of a hurricane-resistant tree varies depending on the size and type of tree, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local nursery to purchase your tree, you can expect to spend between $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\nLike most Corpus Christi residents, you have a storm preparedness checklist ready for hurricane season, but no matter how much you plan, you know there is no way to protect your home and yard from storm damage completely. Selecting wind-resistant trees and thoroughly planning your hurricane-resistant landscape increases your plants’ survival chances during a storm.
\n\n\n\nSome things to consider as you plan your hurricane-resistant landscape include:
\n\n\n\nNative South Texas plants are the most salt and wind-tolerant plants you can include in your landscaping project, and they have the added benefits of being incredibly low-maintenance and drought-tolerant plants. Native plants promote a healthy ecosystem and thrive in Corpus Christi’s subtropical climate. These plants are hands-off and resistant to local insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Texas native plants and groundcovers to choose from. Take a look at some of the most salt-tolerant types:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-pathway-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nWeekly lawn maintenance is daunting, and Texas summers are hot. The fewer plants in your backyard landscape, the less time you will spend maintaining your lawn and garden. While some hardscaping ideas like loose rocks are best left to the inland cities of Central Texas like Austin and San Antonio, there are still many hurricane-safe hardscaping options to add sustainable visual interest to your landscape while eliminating weekly maintenance.
\n\n\n\nHurricane-safe hardscape options include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Be prepared to spend around $7,500 for a new deck, $4,000 for a patio, and $3,000 for a flagstone walkway.
\n\n\n\nRoutine maintenance, including pruning and trimming, helps maintain healthy trees, and healthy trees are sturdy trees. Be sure to keep your hedges, shrubs, and trees pruned or trimmed to cut down on the number and size of branches flying across your yard during a tropical storm.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of landscape maintenance:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional tree trimming and landscape maintenance costs between $315 to $700, depending on the size of your yard and the number of trees and shrubs.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mulch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: christina rutz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMulch comes in many forms and colors. It is a type of xeriscaping, a practice focused on low-maintenance landscaping and water conservation. Mulching is an inexpensive DIY job with enormous benefits for your Corpus Christi lawn. It is a loose material typically made of organic matter like compost, tree bark, and wood chips that helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from the summer heat.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch is the best option for your South Texas landscape. It adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes, but you will need to add a fresh layer annually. Inorganic mulches like gravel, river rock, and landscape glass are low-maintenance and durable, but the hard pieces ricochet off windows and siding during a hurricane.
\n\n\n\nBest mulch for your Corpus Christi landscape:
\n\n\n\nMulch to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag. If your landscaping project requires a lot of mulch, you can often purchase it in bulk to save money.
\n\n\n\nStatues, flower containers, bird baths, small fountains, and patio furniture are all great additions that add a personal touch to your South Texas oasis. Unfortunately, these objects are no match for hurricane-force winds. Be sure to remove all movable storm hazards to minimize damage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: There is no cost to move your landscaping decorations or furniture indoors. However, if you are short on space and want to maximize your storm preparedness, you can rent a storage unit for around $125 per month.
\n\n\n\nLike trees, some fences cannot stand up to strong winds. Fortunately, many Gulf Coast fence contractors specialize in hurricane-resistant fencing and reinforcement. Be sure to note that wood fences are not the best choice for wind-resistant fencing. However, if the sustainability and natural beauty of wood are something you cannot live without, be sure to choose a slatted fence design to minimize wind resistance.
\n\n\n\nTake a look at some of the most wind-resistant fence types:
\n\n\n\nFence types to avoid:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional fence installation costs between $1,330 to $5,550, depending on size, materials, and location.
\n\n\n\nThe average elevation of Corpus Christi is only 25 feet above sea level, and thanks to the city’s subtropical climate and seven barrier islands, waterfront homes are popular in the luxury real estate market. When planning your hurricane-resistant landscape, consider your proximity to the water. Building a seawall around your property protects your home and landscape from tumultuous surf, flooding, and erosion.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular hurricane-resistant seawall materials:
\n\n\n\nMaterials to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of a seawall:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, a new seawall costs $25,000 for professional installation.
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_130120082286_399903e227_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dan Keck / Flickr / Public Domain
\n\n\n\nEvery year Corpus Christi has a 74% chance of experiencing a flood, which is the equivalent of one flood every 16 months. Storm drains are an integral part of the city’s infrastructure and your overall landscape.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, many homeowners often overlook these necessities because they offer little aesthetic value. Yard waste and organic debris can clog your drains, leading to increased flooding and water damage. Be sure to keep paths to your drains clear by maintaining your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of proper drainage:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional French drain installation costs between $1,650 to $12,250, depending on location, size, and excavation needs.
\n\n\n\nThe best hurricane-resistant grasses for your Corpus Christi landscape are St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and seashore paspalum. These grass types tolerate saltwater spray and are great warm-season grasses. Both Zoysiagrass and seashore paspalum stand up better to heavy traffic.
Yes. Most artificial grass is wind-resistant and can withstand up to 50 inches of rain per hour. Most hurricanes generate precipitation at a rate of 6 inches per hour.
In Texas, hurricane season falls between June 1 and Nov. 30, with peak occurrences from August through September.
Check hurricane-resistant landscaping off your preparedness list and start focusing on other preparation areas. Consider letting Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company that can handle your lawn care needs so you can focus on other areas of your landscape design.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Robloxsupersuperhappyface / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"10 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Corpus Christi, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/1789c/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/107df/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 320w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/293e9/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 500w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/f2cbb/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 800w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/1789c/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 960w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/c26c2/Hurricane_Hanna.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/1dd6e/Hurricane_Hanna.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/67b76/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 320w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/8df11/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 500w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/98a65/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 800w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/1dd6e/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 960w,\n/static/4585b1c1e1e49f4e17dd46bcbca6abf9/3cc96/Hurricane_Hanna.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Corpus Christi, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Worry less about your storm preparedness with these hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for Corpus Christi, including the estimated cost of each."}}},{"node":{"id":"b7a25e61-bcc0-50b0-8908-805eeadcaa03","slug":"native-plants-houston-landscapes","path":"/lawn-care/tx/houston/native-plants-houston-landscapes/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"656604f4-56e7-55ed-8540-cc48be40652a","name":"Houston","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/houston/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 27th, 2019","excerpt":"When’s the last time you stopped to smell the roses in Houston? How about any of the native flowers like the purple coneflower or black-eyed Susan? These are the native plants for Houston landscapes that attract birds, bees and other pollinators. Since they grow here naturally, they need little maintenance or water to thrive. Planting […]
\n","content":"\nWhen’s the last time you stopped to smell the roses in Houston? How about any of the native flowers like the purple coneflower or black-eyed Susan? These are the native plants for Houston landscapes that attract birds, bees and other pollinators. Since they grow here naturally, they need little maintenance or water to thrive. Planting native helps the environment and your yard.
\n\n\n\nWhen designing your landscape, don’t forget the smaller details that set your property apart from the neighborhood. Native plants in Houston and other cities in Texas are celebrated for their visual appeal, and for being eco-friendly. Since they’re easy to maintain, they’ll increase the curb appeal of your home.
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the trees, vines, shrubs, and plants that grow easily in H-Town.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/IAujYhyWhiqbOHyzjyFz6NUQFQvuj2I4pc0kkG_GEpPRgkHDbedud1tWw-tSl8u5lLD4SUErYX1jawFWbfdTpNs6zx_Cd8b1hLSby8HcMZmKulLbZukItYRNevfhRyjKn25ZAPKw\")
There are many species of large trees in Texas; oaks are ones you’ll find everywhere in Houston. They fall into two groups; red and white. Red oaks have jagged leaves with acorns that take two years to mature. White Oaks have smooth foliage with acorns maturing in one season. You’ll also see maple, walnut, ash, cypress, pine, sycamore and tulip trees that typically grow anywhere from 60 to 80 feet tall. The pecan may be our state tree, but don’t forget about the tree that gave Houston one of its many nicknames. The Southern magnolia tree is losing ground to invasive species, but it continues to be the centerpiece in many Houston gardens.
\n\n\n\nSmaller varieties of native trees include the American holly, with its sharply jagged foliage and bright red berries. Pawpaw gives off a tropical-like appearance that highlights your landscape with maroon-red flowers. Acacia sprouts white-yellow blooms, and crape myrtle comes in a variety of colors including lavender, white, reds and pink. You can’t walk far in Houston without seeing a Basham Party Pink Crape Myrtle — a hybrid that can grow up to 30 feet tall.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Gzce4KAaryUIcFtEITJNsdxf48uoM2X-rqy4v2n9DePqDD5Ony7JP9jgifltb08ELuwcOjc22JdH8u6wg9d5e3YiQlTFA5YoTkXn3lgvLU3JH4CWqmssbJ8yv3CpsmsmA6nVLy16\")
Coral honeysuckle has reddish green stems, dark green leaves and looks similar to small shrubs. This vine climbs fences and features red trumpet-shaped blooms that attract hummingbirds. Birds will enjoy a sumptuous feast of orange and red berries during September and October. Coral honeysuckle prefers morning sun and afternoon shade.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/sE86jEBcqWKxF-M92mDKHrnmbixjg18LkCtWraPmOAKx7RwpmT5X4zAaTd3R97gVO77MDiIcii8TBlzOtxFkoZW--1liGil3oSdw6Y5_uXGer1niLxFRqIdjsxlGc_b0MGNJZUwn\")
Photo credit: dunnmary735 on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-NC
\n\n\n\nCarolina Jessamine climbs high with its long, tapered leaves. In winter, you’ll see bright yellow trumpet flowers tinged with a spicy scent.
\n\n\n\nCrossvine blooms in spring with dark-red and yellow flowers.
\n\n\n\nPassionflower vine. With small lavender blooms from April to September, this vine spreads out over fences and trellises. The deep green leaves also attract colorful butterflies. Passionflower vines can grow 10 to 20 feet tall and sprout tiny melon-like edible fruits. A Yellow passionflower vine grows to about 10 feet, blooming in May to September with bluish-black berries.
\n\n\n\nTexas native grapevines draw the birds! With 15 grape species native to Texas, the most common ones are muscadine grape, riverbank grape, and mustang grape.
\n\n\n\nTrumpet creeper is a woody vine that climbs trees and fences, producing red-orange flowers. Houston hummingbirds love these blooms! Trumpet creepers thrive in moist soil and partial shade to full sunlight.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kRurmXejG2XnLwp_LpX1W6xu6z6EVxHo1RnRolb2Fk9B87uTryabo4I7bQbxFf8OT0nX_kvuoX6wKclMNbCXFxgPXAIu_6gBD-0E2-WP6fwrZ40kzIElyG0VArJAnx0VCvBFOE07\")
Agarita is an evergreen that yields single yellow flowers in the spring and then red berries. Agarita prefers full sunlight and well-draining, alkaline soil.
\n\n\n\nGardenia is an evergreen shrub found in many areas of the South. Its white flowers bring about a pleasant scent.
\n\n\n\nJasmine shrubs are evergreens that grow in the Houston area. Primrose and Italian jasmine sprout yellow flowers.
\n\n\n\nPineapple Guava is a grayish green shrub that produces white flowers with bright red stamens.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/uNdVGiSx2EG9v5x1-MZfcVx9dcMOe_glWWlidL4AckyX5OPL6tC5boje8E_bDPS2Q4m98CsZLZ-0Me1DHgSCeZ5zayFH1EA1cTsUCeRLAYmm2RYlqJG9rod4bT84eMQGfQ6Phazi\")
The obedient plant blooms in the spring, with some varieties flowering in autumn. Indigenous to Harris County, they spread thickly through their habitats to protect nearby vegetation, especially in winter. Pigeonberry plants develop red fruits to attract birds, and when the sun shines, you can see a red hue on the foliage. Frog fruit perennials grow just about anywhere; it’s an evergreen thatch in the verbena family. If you prefer something with more of a fleshy root system, Mallows hibiscus helps to stabilize the soil in small landscapes.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1atdfgu7JUNDWUCbbU9kVRZAJgX6B551nnuyhKZcvt8AcAYRUFQamIJH554Dg5I2Ze6ZZYMPTLxZ0SXB4YJj5BR81Rc7pyqgdHmfyaBCRM9y39ds0lfUQaykbnqUE7njtdQcmcHP\")
Photo credit: FritzFlohrReynolds on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-SA
\n\n\n\nWith thousands of native plants to choose from, there’s no reason to plant anything else in your garden. They’ll bring color to your landscape that will return year after year with little help from you. The native plants for Houston landscapes will thrive in our heat and humidity and keep your yard Texas strong.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about landscaping and maintenance? Visit our Houston, TX lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
One of the most biodiverse places on the planet, our Columbia climate happens to be conducive to green, thick, lush landscapes. This creates a great opportunity for those trying to build a lawn here. Still, some grass types fare better than others here. If you’re trying to breathe new life into a withering lawn or […]
\n","content":"\nOne of the most biodiverse places on the planet, our Columbia climate happens to be conducive to green, thick, lush landscapes. This creates a great opportunity for those trying to build a lawn here. Still, some grass types fare better than others here.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re trying to breathe new life into a withering lawn or just repairing tired patches, try inviting one of these grass types into your yard.
\n\n\n\nGenerally, South Carolina lawns favor warm-season grasses but a few cool-season grasses also manage to thrive here. Let’s take a more detailed look at your options so you can pick the right grass seed for your Columbia lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are hardy and grow best in summers. Planting them in your South Carolina lawn means having a naturally lush, green lawn from late spring to early fall – the growing season for warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nBut once the temperature drops, you’ll have to work hard on your warm-season lawn to help it survive the cold. Here’s everything you need to know about the four most appropriate warm-season grasses for your Columbia landscape.
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach at the English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a resilient, dense, warm-season turf that will keep your lawn green throughout the year. It develops a dark green color in summer that pales as the winter approaches.
\n\n\n\nDespite being a warm-season grass, Zoysiagrass stands up pretty well against the South Carolina cold. It can also withstand an impressive amount of foot traffic, making it an excellent choice for households with kids, pets, and lots of visitors.
\n\n\n\nAs a bonus, Zoysiagrass requires little maintenance. Your Zoysiagrass turf will be the first to turn green in spring and last to go brown in the fall, giving you a lush lawn most of the year. Fully established turf turns thick and dense, leaving no room for weeds to gain a foothold.
\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: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis warm-season grass covers most of our sports fields, golf courses, play areas, and other high-traffic sites. Owing to its fast-growing habit and tough nature, it’s a popular grass type for Columbia lawns too.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is tolerant to drought, heat, salt, and a wide range of soil pHs. It spreads by underground rhizomes and stolons and develops into a dense, thick, and green lawn. The density of grass blades also crowds out weeds naturally, while the quick growth rate makes sure recovery from foot traffic and wear is negligible.
\n\n\n\nThis grass requires full, bright sun, so make sure your yard gets plenty of sunlight throughout the day if you’re considering Bermudagrass. Plus, the dense Bermudagrass turf also needs regular dethatching.
\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: 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"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\nThis grass type is perfect for those looking for low-maintenance grass. But there’s a tradeoff: Centipedegrass doesn’t tolerate foot traffic real well.
\n\n\n\nIt spreads by stolons and grows slowly, so it might even take years to establish from seed. Centipedegrass lawns are typically yellow-green, which might tempt homeowners and gardeners to apply nitrogen fertilizer to bring about a richer green. Don’t. Over-fertilization will only increase the need for grass maintenance, spur thatch, and reduce cold tolerance.
\n\n\n\nIf you want a green garden during the winter, centipedegrass might not be suitable for you. This grass type doesn’t generally do well with overseeding and cold weather. But centipede lawns are fairly drought tolerant, accept shade, and won’t cause grass tunneling in flower beds due to their stolon growth.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\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 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\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\n\n\n\n\nThis is a coarse-textured grass that develops a broad-leafed, thick turf. It creates a cushioned, dense lawn from plugs and sod. St. Augustinegrass seeds are not available commercially since it doesn’t produce enough viable seeds, so it might be hard to find St. Augustine seeds at your local gardening store.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass tolerates salt and withstands shade better than most other warm-season turf grasses. It can also tolerate extreme heat and grow in various types of soil, as long as it is well-drained. But it’s the least cold-tolerant of all warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to low
\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\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses thrive in areas where winters are long and summers are shorter. Columbia weather doesn’t favor every cool-season turf type, only a few manage to survive. They’re built to grow in shaded areas and withstand the cold weather without freezing.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a look at three cool-season grasses that you can plant in your Columbia lawn:
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ty Haller / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis cool-season grass is a drought-resistant, durable turf that doesn’t need strict maintenance. It will survive on low fertilization and in poor soil conditions, too. Plus, it’s hardy enough to withstand lots of outdoor activity.
\n\n\n\nIt will be a great addition to your Columbia lawn since it maintains its medium to dark green color from early spring till late fall. Generally, tall fescue resists disease and insects but might fall prey to them if over-fertilized or over-watered.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\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 to 4 inches
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a popular choice across the U.S. due to its picture-perfect deep-green appearance. It’s a fine-textured, dense grass that withstands cold winters pretty well. Colors may vary from blue-green to emerald depending on the type you choose.
\n\n\n\nBut all this comes at a price: Kentucky bluegrass is very high maintenance. This grass type requires more fertilizer, herbicide, and water than any other cool-season grass. In addition to being pleasing to the eyes, Kentucky bluegrass is also easy on the feet. However, too much foot traffic will cause damage to the turf.
\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: High
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis grass type can be planted as a single-grass lawn (monostand) or mixed with Kentucky bluegrass to enhance its disease- and traffic resistance. It’s a popular choice for many homeowners because it has the ability to suppress weeds, germinate quickly, and retain a lovely green color in winter.
\n\n\n\nIts tapered blades give a tufted, shiny appearance and have a pale green hue. Its fine-textured blades need regular maintenance to give it a kept look. Perennial ryegrass can bear considerable foot traffic but it doesn’t self-repair and needs reseeding to recover.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type
\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: 2 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\nCons:
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a popular, low-maintenance grass type that won’t ask for much. It tolerates foot traffic, is drought-resistant, and does not require a lot of fertilizing and water.
Centipedegrass is one of the most popular grasses in South Carolina because of its ability to create thick, lush lawns with minimal maintenance. It’s well-adapted to the soil type and climate of this region and has developed a lighter color and medium texture to it.
Bermudagrass is the fastest-growing grass seed with a germinating time of as little as just 10 days.
Trying to build or maintain a healthy lawn in Columbia can be challenging, but it’s quite much easier if you choose the appropriate grass type for our climate.
\n\n\n\nIt’s safe to say that Zoysiagrass is the best pick for your Columbia lawn. It has the ability to thrive through varying weather conditions and is great in sun as well as shade. For cool-season turf, Kentucky bluegrass and Tall fescue are some great options.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re confused or want someone to help you set the lawn up, call one of our lawn care pros for help and advice.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: University of South Carolina Horseshoe / Dfscgt21 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"7 Best Grass Types for Columbia, South Carolina","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.643835616438356,"src":"/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/1789c/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.jpg","srcSet":"/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/107df/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.jpg 320w,\n/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/293e9/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.jpg 500w,\n/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/f2cbb/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.jpg 800w,\n/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/1789c/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.jpg 960w,\n/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/c26c2/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/1dd6e/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/67b76/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.webp 320w,\n/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/8df11/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.webp 500w,\n/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/98a65/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.webp 800w,\n/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/1dd6e/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.webp 960w,\n/static/12490fd3a73545f6ead54b703a37f607/3cc96/University-of-South-Carolina-Horseshoe.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Best Grass Types for Columbia, South Carolina","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tired of looking at your grim and sad lawn? Worry not, fill it with one of the 7 best grass types for Columbia and enjoy a thick, healthy lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"8d4fc8e1-df88-5d3f-b3d3-7fe18bec1c5e","slug":"controlling-the-worst-weeds-in-austin","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/controlling-the-worst-weeds-in-austin/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"Texans fight an uphill battle against the climate to maintain lush, green lawns. While we get wrapped up in mortal combat against scorching heat and epic droughts, another foe wages a battle against us: weeds. Unlike our turf, weeds couldn’t care less when it comes to drought, heat, and neglect. In fact, the conditions that […]
\n","content":"\nTexans fight an uphill battle against the climate to maintain lush, green lawns. While we get wrapped up in mortal combat against scorching heat and epic droughts, another foe wages a battle against us: weeds. Unlike our turf, weeds couldn’t care less when it comes to drought, heat, and neglect. In fact, the conditions that kill the landscapes we love only make them stronger. Once we let down our guard, they sprout and spread. Once these invaders have made landfall, our only hope is to stop them from advancing. Here are some tips for controlling the worst weeds in Austin.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/3xloc5YBo1YwFQ690cX2SCF_KZof84QQvmWZAM91v7RDI1GPttiFZrU2rf1rDaPwe08GSA-k4rEUW3w9f3zKKOP5tEmqgP-sYANnTTb907K-HcjNhZgmMCAGsfIkLgBYkD1Vy9UD\")
The best defense against weeds is a vigorous lawn, since that makes it challenging for weeds to gain traction. Your yard is only as safe as its weakest patch of grass. Weeds are opportunists looking for a bare spot where they can put down roots and establish themselves. A number of weeds are waiting for their chance to pounce, but they tend to leave mowed, fertilized, healthy turf alone. Most weeds won’t withstand regular mowing. Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, and Saint Augustinegrass all enjoy Austin’s hot, humid summers and with proper care will form a dense mat that resists the enemy.
\n\n\n\nWhen you see weeds invading your lawn, don’t look the other way. Once you allow a weed to go to seed, your front line is compromised, and you’ll have to spend a season working offense. To avoid this, when you spot a weed poking up through the turf, immediately remove it from the roots. String trimmers, aka “weed whackers” are only a temporary fix because when roots remain in the ground, the weed can pop right back up to fight another day.
\n\n\n\nDrop your weeds in the trash to make sure they don’t make a comeback – some weeds can regenerate if you just cast them aside on your lawn.
\n\n\n\nDeveloping a strong knowledge of the weeds you’re fighting will help you defeat them. The main categories of noxious weeds in Austin are broadleaf weeds and grass-like weeds. Each requires different techniques to defeat.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IsgL9UTVcXYiG-Mh6w7Kc1qCFfvk5PrGkBaWPso3caR8nai1A70zBNtdaTQeYgvqL-rNnn_6t7AP4pHzVcxBI26_lXxaucrFhflVv2smJkk3nS92--Zaph_tgRlfIDSMQcKfj0Qm\")
Dandelions can be either biennial or perennial but usually burst into full bloom in late spring or early summer. The dandelion’s distinctive appearance makes it easy to identify. There are multiple effective ways to win the war against dandelions. The easiest is to mow often before the flowers have gone to seed. Next, pull them up by the roots. Finally, apply a selective weed killer directly to the plants.
\n\n\n\n![\"Thistle,](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qHn9KZc9lDtiEA5267GRUtB-oIoQlpfG2Dv6FHv4nF75V7VCMpsrrKzLuQFjg8ZZZ5MYG16qOc-2fTlA_58kcF5FZTyNhc7J8kVM50XYpUzTQvJNBeqlqiMZGnjVbSvmcTtnrpzw\")
Thistles are weeds that can also be either biennial or perennial and can be very tough to fight once established. They can reach a height of several feet and can take up the whole lawn if you let them. Though stubborn, this is one weed that’s easy to control: cut to the ground with a hoe or pull up from the roots. Just remember to bag up the thistle you cut, as they will go to seed wherever they land.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/pyatElKLY5M6EkIRFnfo51BPhVGY4H2Dh69MwmyArT2GulzmGokAtyuHsvYJ5Y7LBtzIarQz9FOp1G9YsbIDdFJ9JEy6KABlmJJDawfXDDaIzJ-vgwmwc8mOyQNqsxZj0hi-2uvU\")
The bane of all homeowners and turf managers, crabgrass is a vigorous weed that thrives under the conditions that kill everything else. It grows flat along the ground, and this low profile allows it to stealthily spread right under the cutting line of mowers. The best way to fight this weed is to apply a pre-emergent weed control treatment at the end of winter before the ground warms.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/iTLOWhTYZYDd_wE23vvq10Pf75B1R4E_1dT7uvhiHpQWB49xqd5jXscCs76jbih_Rv63KujmMW34RzrejlczNuOAexyP44G18srUtvVCJXeViOR1S9pdSUXw4hvpNMeC-YtW3Ozd\")
This warm-season annual grass is tough as nails – mature blades are difficult to cut with a mower if the blades are not razor sharp. Although the first frost of the winter will kill the plants, each plant can produce up to 50,000 seeds. The best method for limiting their expansion is to apply a pre-emergent in the weeks before it sprouts.
\n\n\n\nThe war against weeds is the longest-running battle in human history. Even the most vigilant homeowner finds weeds in their turf from time to time. So keep your eyes peeled and your battle gear handy, because you never know when the weeds will find you.
\n\n\n\nInterested in learning more about gardening and lawn care in Austin? Visit our Austin TX lawn care page.
When we dream of a perfect landscape, we envision two features that are sometimes at odds with each other: beautiful, green grass and graceful, mature trees. Anyone who has both can tell you that growing grass in the shade of trees is a tall order. If you have shady areas where your turf grass seems […]
\n","content":"\nWhen we dream of a perfect landscape, we envision two features that are sometimes at odds with each other: beautiful, green grass and graceful, mature trees. Anyone who has both can tell you that growing grass in the shade of trees is a tall order. If you have shady areas where your turf grass seems to suffer, this guide to growing grass in the shade will help.
\n\n\n\nThe good news: A healthy lawn and a tree canopy can peacefully co-exist.
\n\n\n\nThe first step to growing grass in shady areas is understanding why it’s a challenging environment for turf. Turfgrass needs air, light, water, and nutrients to grow. Trees can stand in the way of these nutrients reaching your lawn. The canopy of a large tree blocks the sun from filtering through to the grass below, which is the first big issue. Even the most shade-tolerant grasses need four to six hours of sunlight each day to thrive.
\n\n\n\nMost trees have extensive, shallow root systems that spread out beneath the canopy. Tree roots absorb nutrients and oxygen from the soil, depriving the grass roots of necessary elements. Making it even tougher, fallen leaves can further impede air circulation and sunlight from reaching the turf. Grass growing in shady areas also tends to grow shallow roots, making the grass weaker and more susceptible to disease and pests.
\n\n\n\nMany shade-tolerant grasses can tolerate living in the shadow of canopy trees. The key is identifying the best grass variety for your growing area. The first thing to identify is whether you will need a warm-season grass or cool-season grass to overseed your shady areas.
\n\n\n\nIf you live in the southern part of the U.S., you’ll want to choose a warm-season grass such as St. Augustinegrass, buffalo grass, Zoysiagrass, or centipede grass. If you live in a more northern area, you’ll want to go with a cool-season grass such as fine fescue, perennial ryegrass, or Kentucky bluegrass. In general, cool-season grass types have a higher shade tolerance than warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xGYKX_sS3vC018m8xcXrpK5gJPe5_1M3H5dZDx8Ve3HxOs1lC-1plSWhpSBKY9IsgibQNI0FNOfSA6_nlgTJpTP13bcAQd4-1HgHjBvwwJoBIYYCH1PgiHQYKKHnRKH57523od-i\")
“Despite your best efforts, it may not be possible to successfully grow grass in some areas,” states Richard Jauron, an expert horticulturist at Iowa State University. “For example, growing conditions under hard maples are extremely difficult.” In places where the canopy is dense, Jauron suggests growing grass alternatives or shade-tolerant ground covers.
\n\n\n\nA ground cover can be as simple as mulch or wood chips arranged around the base of trees. Just make sure mulch doesn’t touch the tree trunks. Planting low-maintenance garden beds in shady areas can also fill in the area without the hassle of lawn maintenance. Plants including hostas, pachysandra, ferns, and liriope are ideal species for under the tree canopy.
\n\n\n\nKeeping your shaded turf looking its best is a challenge, but well worth it. With a little effort and some smart strategy, you can have a healthy lawn or landscape even in the shadiest corners of your yard.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: “Shade tree,” tonya, CC2.0
Drought is inevitable in California. We don’t have to like it, but we do have to live with it. However, you don’t have to watch your yard die (or your water bill climb) every summer. Adapt your yard to better survive hot, dry conditions, and your water bills and yard maintenance will drop off significantly. […]
\n","content":"\nDrought is inevitable in California. We don’t have to like it, but we do have to live with it. However, you don’t have to watch your yard die (or your water bill climb) every summer. Adapt your yard to better survive hot, dry conditions, and your water bills and yard maintenance will drop off significantly. Consider the following drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for California.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhether you need a simple first step or want to take drastic measures, the following strategies will reduce water usage. You can apply each drought-resistant landscaping tip on its own or in combination with others.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/poppy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: rhyman007 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhile it’s tempting to choose plants solely based on appearance, some plants have higher water needs than others. Focus on garden plants that have low water needs, such as succulents. You can also choose from a variety of other plant types, from trees to ornamental grasses.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia native plants are more likely to be drought-resistant than non-native plants. They also tend to be:
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to narrow your search by region, county, or city. For example, a plant native to Southern California may not do well in Northern California. Here are some drought-resistant California native plants to get you started:
\n\n\n\nKeep in mind that newly planted specimens will need more water than established plants. These increased water needs are why perennials are typically better than annuals.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rocky-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: IKALSEMI / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nPlants are often the focal point of gardens, but rocks deserve more credit. If you’re not convinced, check out the California Rock Garden at UC Davis or Dave’s Rock Garden in Encinitas. These gardens showcase rocks of various shapes, sizes, and colors alongside native plants.
\n\n\n\nIf you feel inspired, make your own rock garden. Choose neutral-toned or colorful rocks to suit your tastes, and arrange them in whatever patterns your heart desires. Styles can range from desert landscapes to zen gardens. You also can integrate rocks into a small part of your yard rather than the whole thing. Here are some elements you could include:
\n\n\n\nNote: While many rock gardens include water features, it’s not a very drought-friendly option. Consider dry ponds or riverbeds instead. You also could use a bird bath to keep visiting wildlife happy and hydrated.
\n\n\n\nRock gardens aren’t just an aesthetic choice. The rocks require no water or maintenance. They also suppress weeds and prevent garden plants from growing where you don’t want them to. Of course, you don’t have to forgo vegetation altogether. Some plants, such as chalk dudleya, grow better in rocky environments and require little irrigation to survive.
\n\n\n\n![\"Gardener](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mulchy-copy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: artursfoto / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhat is mulch? Mulch is organic or inorganic material spread over the ground, typically around plants. Examples include:
\n\n\n\nMulch plays many roles in landscaping, but how does it help with drought resistance? When applied over the soil, mulch can help retain moisture by preventing evaporation. You also can use it to cover large areas as an alternative to grass or groundcovers. When placed around plants, it will suppress weeds competing for water.
\n\n\n\n![\"Wireless](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rain-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Steven White’s Images / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhether or not your plants are drought-resistant, you may be overwatering. Many plants need less water than you expect to survive and can go dormant to survive dry conditions. The water also could be going to the wrong place entirely, where it is not accessible to the plants. Here are some steps to take to make sure your irrigation systems are water-wise:
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sarah Stierch / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to drought resistance, lawns have a bad reputation. 40% to 60% of landscape irrigation is used for turfgrass. You don’t necessarily have to give up your lawn entirely, but you should consider what you want out of your lawn and what alternatives could work just as well.
\n\n\n\nConsider how much lawn you need. Maybe your kids enjoy the backyard lawn, but the front yard lawn doesn’t get much use. You also may want to extend your patio a little further to better host guests. These are perfect opportunities to reduce your turf square footage and save water. Some counties, such as Los Angeles, offer rebates based on how much grass you remove.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to replace your lawn completely, consider these drought-tolerant alternatives:
\n\n\n\n*Artificial turf is not eligible for lawn removal rebates.
\n\n\n\n![\"Installing](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/hard-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: JPLDesigns / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nA hardscape is an artificial landscape design that doesn’t use plants. You can create patios, walkways, retaining walls, fire pits, or basketball courts. Here are some possible materials:
\n\n\n\nNo vegetation means no irrigation. However, permeable surfaces are the most drought-friendly way to go. They reduce runoff and allow water to seep into the soil to be used by nearby plants.
\n\n\n\n![\"xeriscape](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/xeri-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: remedypic / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIf several of these ideas have piqued your interest, consider a more radical redesign. A xeriscape landscape design requires little to no water or maintenance. Here are the fundamental principles, many of which we’ve covered in this article:
\n\n\n\nWhile each part of xeriscaping saves water, combining all of them makes this strategy the most effective.
\n\n\n\nThis landscape design is best for homeowners who want to remodel their yards and don’t mind the extra time and cost. It’s also suitable for currently empty yards or newly built homes.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia cities and counties often offer rebates for drought-tolerant landscaping, but you need to meet certain conditions. Possible requirements include:
●Removal of turfgrass (typically around 200 to 500 square feet at minimum)
●Installation of native or drought-tolerant plants
●Use of mulch and rocks
●Permeable hardscaping
●Pool removal
●Irrigation upgrades
●Stormwater retention systems
Check your local county rules for specific requirements and rebate programs. You will likely need to apply for these rebates before you start your project, or you may not be eligible. Artificial turf does not count toward these rebates.
As of 2022, turf replacement rebates are exempt from state income tax.
Often, the answer is yes. Hardscaping, rock gardens, and inorganic mulch (excluding rubber and landscape fabric) close to your home can help reduce the spread of fire. You must still be mindful of flammable materials near your home, such as wooden patio furniture. Choose non-flammable materials whenever possible.
Drought-tolerant plants are also beneficial because they tend to be less dry and flammable. However, no plant is entirely fireproof, and they must be well-hydrated to have the best chance of survival. Keep plants spaced out and far away from your house’s walls so the fire doesn’t have a direct route to your home.
The most drought-friendly grass types in California are:
●Zoysiagrass
●Buffalograss
●Bermudagrass
●Bentgrass
Some drought-tolerant changes are easy to make. A trip to your local native plant nursery or a DIY drip irrigation kit are projects some homeowners are happy to tackle.
However, large projects can take time and effort. A landscaping professional can simplify drought-resistant landscaping for you. Wikilawn can connect you to local pros in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and many other California cities.
Main Photo Credit: LookTarn / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"7 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1789c/bromeliad.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/107df/bromeliad.jpg 320w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/293e9/bromeliad.jpg 500w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/f2cbb/bromeliad.jpg 800w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1789c/bromeliad.jpg 960w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/c26c2/bromeliad.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1dd6e/bromeliad.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/67b76/bromeliad.webp 320w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/8df11/bromeliad.webp 500w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/98a65/bromeliad.webp 800w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1dd6e/bromeliad.webp 960w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/3cc96/bromeliad.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for California | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Drought-resistant landscaping ideas for California include low-water plants, smart irrigation, and inorganic features."}}},{"node":{"id":"ef12bbf7-8add-507c-b7f4-9da25b763abe","slug":"what-is-it-like-to-live-in-washington-d-c-in-30-pictures","path":"/lawn-care/washington-dc/what-is-it-like-to-live-in-washington-d-c-in-30-pictures/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jackie Greene is a blogger, gardener, and nutrition enthusiast. She enjoys creating organic meals for family and friends using the fresh ingredients she produces from her backyard homestead.","name":"Jackie Greene","id":"fb5923e1-833b-5d9b-808e-ded0e62c0bc4","path":"/author/jackiegreene/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c1121209a3ebfbe0a7e941d102b2971?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"30ecf80b-c320-5679-942e-29dcd7b95c66","name":"Washington DC","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/washington-dc/"}],"date":"April 26th, 2019","excerpt":"Moving to our nation’s capital is a big decision. You might have heard that it’s expensive and too busy to be your home, but don’t let those negative thoughts get to you. Living in Washington D.C. has some huge perks, plus a developing culture that is vibrant and alive. Here are some pictures that show […]
\n","content":"\nMoving to our nation’s capital is a big decision. You might have heard that it’s expensive and too busy to be your home, but don’t let those negative thoughts get to you. Living in Washington D.C. has some huge perks, plus a developing culture that is vibrant and alive.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/veOduYvfdkA5YREMMFIGOkHT0PEO5ghLbPYeY_I-6ZLbaU0K7ZjRi8tsaqPKWaKtFOnles91Mx7hWUoDK_7ENkTydzOW1dQHfj7xIqt7yIrR364nHYv2VjuGUIPgWw1zltAWLLFb\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gENkJl9sOYJrzCtHtRaYjzr_snaaDrmtlfQkfyxEtruT_s2YaPYqfCUUyffExc1tTcuV3ztp6UCGoOLzGwVYynyjdlepZYnEUrU2N9AzkO9czgOpyq0YLGQ5ypVKJdz2LBbcOY6l\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ptGvafbC-6iagBbPjL3D2uEqTPbovw1nxY0PLDbWVJhoAj6mHzo231V3lnrqUl7IwWFprM991PO6ZgYSXRjgralGtpnJWusb55hBYc0qWO3OxgHGEDEMXQGG-NmPtrF4yPmLQudi\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Sg_aW21DHhAfRGvRL66ZOdIYn_FRlyyHIc380nDpYT-pP_JseXUZC5xo0Or9Z1VJe3FhdaS85jBoz-SXYhGpPSfTC4Nzov7T3AJRy0TFdlEP1rg3LKSEsF83cdVdi8QSAzCyR-lz\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Ks4-GrnDj_YbfXPkV7x-QRzcH-l1ji7-1E-hiHR9J5JG3VCfZJ7hTL4V6xSnOg9NpQTQFfRudR--TccF8fuPErnZbikr9pPJEEMYU8HUnaKocdXs7yCQyPScuhmFsCgG_Eo7xMPA\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/757CzjSzPNWjyNFWEUVKhD9Xq2wijetDQH97BD83v-cYqz5YiNtH-LkFI_wZd7LRqyWlsw26BECW8JsJQ1OslilVzM11Hs8fkl49XUEZGTUZW2ArMchrnKW8WmhFBZHMFTexUomd\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fGklk3z_pGtr9jjXjIZkoYBt_1dXHpw5badxlcxENSp8U-OrF3gMFGCpQCAPFYc4zyB_nHBysI5bMfptv7wrZ1yJQzpOPeMrEg-eWcB4_AxAX4SgutFPiv7TNMBZ8UqJFB-NT2aJ\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HUFUh954Ky0XNrlvlmU8FJvkk8rpOsuy83MxlyAhXd55ydScP0VWhRis9pwmyu-WkQjR4gEyKLdTShjpJ-fQQi6fot3wfmaI_qGqBNYCRahaod1Bp-ThDmHvoka7ldh5oZ-aaADQ\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/yeNEO2EYRJw0DsWADUXmwKcgxLc31oMTeD_ZF9ofHxCqkHMYkPyHWrkJKniiQbrqsr6SUT9XCaVgeiFjOoJfyINBs0tKrpx4vbPKKyWTxojav0iLR4FoRxbNop65RIQiBSHV_AOs\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/N8s4BpxEt1RwWy7W7QfASwdAHjy2loe6wWnk83f5p4a408klfolx8ZsKfCVE544xO72mZX6zYU2wRiTbHJg7psAERrqsS0j_8kBE0VqWGjCH69U1X1fuvCl1dt16CxggMllRVZkY\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/sKsftr4ksUtWxU4qiSVQPidpSkPzRTDAxuFSkYz81nmJXgsY6CARShkC6yhcb5BzzVhjLp2Sba13SEpFJZ-PUqzrEs9krfCS_n0LBSOg2npLw4eXnwSJ5DtnqCwW7xw6VNdC2Qnw\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OE9EvBMFEK6cGvH6rqEs6XvCpWefVuhIr1U3dEJkRIKWjaMRXzek8VErTJNeGKJV9EdmH8_Pa_u00F14PtYvf-cQ8qIcSLLrIGbUkkrXNUNRiRlaqYzlC-SLzrD084EJW-LsmRYF\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XyPda2-kxmZrRjoSSRtlkjucDTmFRYH3dNRd53tJyKUFcgK-h4YtwYbBTJiRLcCKxqpDzzEHtdOiuxNzQj98mNV6GKwXo7-j7r84Edz_NvIRoK7wDlUs-jVkIVS3tETJKus9JsMR\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a7UbS9My5ZtsAmbP17UfBNosJKpgv8l2B5_CdnciXYgZdGOE7hUC5Hh3CLBfWUZ_G36w8JN8FJzJtrsCrv1rqQicRwd522FV1h2J04Y-2Olk7IDOa9Q4Aw_DnW6kZXRRauUu34J\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/iKShc4xd2ngHL32ntZ3d-osgs8AzpbkJRi9Dqd37iYz0VYfXrejg-04Bj07ZSa8sTMOF-ULvq3jr4JQcVn5VFFFW65-EQv6_C1YyJTVr64XV5zc5IlDzgGIDb_ccFBFcqatA5SdD\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HVkzKM3VNP5ySqxDeWwPLWYS1pZa3YiBX-XvsxYH9ZvYjvCbXtvqe7GMI7a2-InQROyg55At4mBY0BP1gsSst-F5G9totobX9QusJT9wtPTh0QLd2PmHhACWbXa3khhYEnlVOCQk\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/rYqUGNtYtOr-Amm27ADQFg3olV2pjPphd3iPRXootBUU_5Iy8BlM5kVxPMHAChyeexOXLdKp5C8zKliNdmOFhVzxZ19hotb7t-aWJnfIAS8UgnYJJ854EV4gxFm2Kp8qm90mk98N\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/xFjC5OdgjEJw-7IBlpxLSRw0OBflRX2D51r4-f2YYlztS24OGW1qNBhEAjE-Zlbkh-rueA8KHAuGUKGcfcznpOnUFsXBADbNCRJLcDLIDn4iaM2oeS9JMMDjSwssnUZ6n5567REP\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ofaPXSaBW1xvr42Aa66AWSy-sDSGDxAg7Q1jQx-Jrkei-A90jz3yn2YoRqZMEtKtG0TbYhV8IkPBOLzGVaTexft5rs5YZ8q5StU7ulkcpNTxaScDJ2aMDBjn83zvXsvjfjQe6xQX\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/SWDgWQpvtd5l6EJvG7YozAkf-YBLBendIAEdA2RUH8mhSRpK5-1t9fjwELBH7jFkaoED2Jjp7cC3w5cx4My_B5l8iHewBFE_arHBrAl9DM8xgMb4EI1VQDFh8fuzK_OxMlkleTQQ\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/6TkczDvS5dXebiwDs2pOe8lTDw3ISGwEpZ8hHlFopu_L6hNcmqqUAY2YjSFj-V_dn4RtpyXxWD8QHzCAQPgL2KJb0HThlZbaYEMHvcMZqbD0UIvjaQALi8WlqLIbet-aGV4petzl\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/RD_oGXYR5li5loZEOfFDxwpwdK34iSZTR6v1D9s6_pHiL3kPa9koOObQvCmHPc_ztswlS42M0ESYbYq46J8_-AFAnsjGOzNxMDvgEpSPJaW2aYT3h3OV-yjL-nqWfO0jQYSyxeH2\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/qIje3Y6ZqCJ1xbZ2CaxsMImWxoPOQ7lULdfnI9GCK8dpAkhaXKaYaC7wfU-aXmCy93HSt-G0O-a8WlxdMzhDXPXZKuVPUG00H4V3kk5uclaCmzJ4-5ny5cg5PJ9kR03PC4ODdaC5\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VObY_FDHi6t2bXN7RpJDhNx_KHwYGDU9mQwVgh1C3Zli7HdjxFk4g2h9Td5nIBR_m7QMqU7EM2fLO1a5GcroyE06nj875Uvn-ZPq5ARCANDuo9nBPAqNOETduRaoEp-V7bUZiAiJ\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Ht0itf-csUlJOdsX6Ptc7v8NbxGZxqd96B9Mpc5X5hdeB0w4b2b9kssY22_b9ITZ0IwylT02dBn7huPak8JhrQ5xByvIHxpR1hWl9Z7hVRdPLFzKHiaSCB1PnFgNk9iEjFhip83W\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WEj-ldqA5H3O5eYbtiYPIzCI70bQp7r-D6O5IyaKpOJg25YFYzhHCsiJywCGEDLyOrZB76lazgdoXzg6eXq78Xsv8j8YYJwqspn77E3Fu-Hg9KA8PxWlok-q0aJH_PU2djJINAbF\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xPjgdXpewmXHKFKfx_935UxX-oH0BFPLzNtEAfT9TWrw6_8Pw_5V2l7YVR6jOubegpW-4T6N2YCP0TtLuW5sWYWBg0PH50T0dhvRMrrNunK8449YnfbAf7qUWG2d7YKr1eTkPCsC\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/O3hCxrxClI2b4DTQ2wXk0CIW4z5j5hHU8XK13MY3MJFeZ9nPuUI0oYLQzymcQuEBedBYtkTc27vO4cUKKgb2TdWiQzNGkTmXVxKCZPbXGfwycVCStRtf_wOT-akhvyqbADzajLbU\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/gamU-r_Z4y1EVvPZmO0T9l5_OEN-WeNaqrf5tY4H16oWs8pJAHXBKy3g6BIoOp4ZDr8P-fMuM3ltAb6m2SuBkk_bEJQ5B5yhGXXlzkUGidhYEszuZi0bS90DUshnW5id_5hmmvC8\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/df93uuVFphY1mQsEl8ihXD20U37BplgCGYmqKYGjMf8mWUpryihCHvXssQh-jhWWtE1iaNexlQALKY7hXb6F84jbUdWGtxZC3K0dFv6etJekxF5Xnr5ZJAIFEi7C15Cn4YRuYkH6\")
Looking for lawn care services in Washington DC? Or maybe you’re looking for lawn care advice because you’re a DIY kind of person? Visit our Washington DC lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"What is it like to live in Washington D.C.? (in 30 Pictures)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/f2cbb/washington-dc-skyline.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/107df/washington-dc-skyline.jpg 320w,\n/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/293e9/washington-dc-skyline.jpg 500w,\n/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/f2cbb/washington-dc-skyline.jpg 800w","srcWebp":"/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/98a65/washington-dc-skyline.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/67b76/washington-dc-skyline.webp 320w,\n/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/8df11/washington-dc-skyline.webp 500w,\n/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/98a65/washington-dc-skyline.webp 800w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"What is it like to live in Washington D.C.? (in 30 Pictures) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}}],"postCity":{"node":{"name":"Kansas City","slug":"kansas-city","state":{"name":"Missouri","slug":"mo"},"suburbs":[{"name":"Blue Springs","slug":"blue-springs"},{"name":"Kearney","slug":"kearney"},{"name":"Grandview","slug":"grandview"},{"name":"Independence","slug":"independence"},{"name":"Lees Summit","slug":"lees-summit"},{"name":"Pleasant Hill","slug":"pleasant-hill"},{"name":"Raymore","slug":"raymore"},{"name":"Smithville","slug":"smithville"}],"parentCity":null}}}}}![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/psiA7c3XPVFa2Vwjx8d0L-DUbTig06KP7PtIrq0xGMd5ycE34LSC99EMwWQ-pKshUYITG9s54XX2x_sGLUHBef-EYZW1QJUHjo5seug2a_XM_bikGaA2q74tTwdDlMjNGqSfkfzz\")
![Source](\"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d4/Liatris_spicata_Purple.jpg/1200px-Liatris_spicata_Purple.jpg\"){kind=link}
![Source](\"https://i.pinimg.com/736x/40/f0/8f/40f08f4ccba3ef9d875b205d789819ab.jpg\"){kind=link}
![Source](\"https://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NTcxWDEwMjQ=/z/WpEAAOSwOdpXzuCP/%24_86.JPG\"){kind=link}
![Source](\"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Harig_vingergras_plant_%28Digitaria_sanguinalis%29.jpg/1280px-Harig_vingergras_plant_%28Digitaria_sanguinalis%29.jpg\"){kind=link}