![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass.jpg\")
Durham abounds with natural beauty all year round. From showy, lush greenery in the summer to dreamy, snow-covered landscapes in the winter, the city has the best of both worlds. Similarly, both warm- and cool-season grasses can thrive in Durham’s climate. But before you rush out and choose one, it’s important to know their strengths […]
\n","content":"\nDurham abounds with natural beauty all year round. From showy, lush greenery in the summer to dreamy, snow-covered landscapes in the winter, the city has the best of both worlds.
\n\n\n\nSimilarly, both warm- and cool-season grasses can thrive in Durham’s climate. But before you rush out and choose one, it’s important to know their strengths and weaknesses so you can select the best type of grass for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nAll grass types are classified as either warm-season or cool-season. Here are their differences:
\n\n\n\nAs mentioned above, both warm-season and cool-season types of grass will work with a Durham lawn. Read on to learn about some options.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass doesn’t need much mowing, fertilizing, or watering, making it a great option for those who want low-maintenance lawns. At the same time, this light green, medium-textured grass can grow thick in the right environment.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass grows slowly, so if you want to speed up the process, you should use sod or plugs. To keep your centipedegrass looking beautiful, dethatch it every two to three years and don’t apply too much fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate; full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high (with the right maintenance)
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Very low; if damaged, ensure to water promptly
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low, and requires less mowing than other grasses because of its slow growth habit
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5 to 2 inches, depending on conditions
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; can be prevented with the right care
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass establishes quickly and handles foot traffic and other stressful conditions well. It spreads rapidly and forms a dense, light-to-dark green turf.
\n\n\n\nThis grass comes in common, improved common, and hybrid cultivars. These cultivars range in texture, maintenance needs, disease resistance, and so forth. You can contact an expert to figure out which Bermudagrass cultivar is right for you.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; some cultivars may have slightly better shade tolerance, but in general, Bermudagrass needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Highly wear-resistant; if foot traffic damage does occur, Bermudagrass recovers well because of its aggressive rhizomes.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate; may need mowing as often as twice per week due to its low mowing height; plan to dethatch regularly
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1 to 2 inches (rotary mower) or 0.75 to 1 inch (reel mower)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low, but common diseases include spring dead spots, large patches, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Zoysiagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David-Pierre Mangiapan / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is known for its versatility, durability, weed control, and resistance. It can handle stresses like drought and foot traffic. Zoysia is a dense, light-to-medium green carpet of turfgrass that can grow in various soil types. Unlike other warm-season grasses, it can even tolerate moderate shade.
\n\n\n\nHowever, zoysia is extremely slow to establish. The best way to grow the grass is to buy sod, which is more expensive. Ensure that you water and fertilize your zoysia as needed and that you remove any built-up thatch.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate (high for a warm-season grass type)
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on the cultivar
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High; dense growth resists damage, and spreading through stolons and rhizomes allows for quick recovery
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches depending on cultivar and shade; heights below 1 inch need a reel mower (which is recommended anyway)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to medium, depending on the cultivar
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a versatile grass that keeps its medium-dark green color all year when it gets the right care. It can stay in tip-top shape under various kinds of stresses, whether it be heat, foot traffic, weeds, or diseases. Moreover, this grass can grow in either full sun or partial shade.
\n\n\n\nHowever, if your tall fescue grass suffers damage, it won’t repair itself, so you’ll need to reseed it. Don’t get cultivar Kentucky-31 for your home lawn. Instead, look for an improved variety, often called turf-type tall fescue. Some experts recommend a blend of two or three tall fescue grasses for better performance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass; doesn’t spread well
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate; full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but if bare spots appear, you’ll need to reseed in the fall
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Relatively low, but requires frequent mowing
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3 to 4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kentucky-Bluegrass-Mix.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ferran Pestaña / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nEven though Kentucky bluegrass grows best in the north of the U.S., it’s used all over the country. It’s a dense, blue-green grass that forms a soft turf and has great ability to repair itself. Although this grass is slow to establish, it can create a lush, uniform lawn if you take care of it.
\n\n\n\nHowever, it may have problems handling heat, drought, and bad soil. Mixing Kentucky bluegrass with other grass types makes it more durable throughout the year. It can be mixed with tall fescue and fine fescue, or just tall fescue on its own.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: KGB spreads by rhizomes; fine fescues are bunch-type, except creeping red fescues, which have short rhizomes; tall fescues are mostly bunch-type
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate, depending on the mix; KBG needs full sun, but fine fescues and tall fescues can tolerate partial shade
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High; may go dormant in summer droughts but will recover quickly once cooler temperatures and rainfall resumes
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate to high; tall fescue resists traffic damage well; KBG resists traffic damage well in colder months; fine fescues work better in low-traffic areas; if damage occurs, tall fescue and fine fescue require overseeding
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Depends on the mix; anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Depends on the mix; KGB has a moderate to high risk for disease, but proper management reduces this risk. Tall fescue and fine fescue grasses are less susceptible to disease.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking to make your lawn care easier, consider centipedegrass, which is known for being super low-maintenance.
Bermudagrass is a champ at handling foot traffic, but zoysiagrass is also a great option. If you prefer cool-season grasses, tall fescue should be fine either on its own or mixed with Kentucky bluegrass. Choose the grass that best fits your needs.
Centipedegrass and zoysiagrass are both relatively good at handling partial shade.
If you want your grass to stay green all year, pick tall fescue. This grass can keep its color during all seasons if you give it the right care.
Some people prefer a low-maintenance lawn, while others need resistant turfgrass that can withstand heavy foot traffic. Depending on your personal needs and preferences, you have a variety of grasses to choose from. Additionally, if you want a beautiful, easy-care landscape, make sure that you also research the right native plants for your Durham yard.
\n\n\n\nNo matter which grass type and plants you pick, you’ll need to take care of them to one degree or another to make sure they thrive in your yard. But it doesn’t have to take up all your time. Contact local lawn care pros to see how they can help.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo By: Pixabay
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Your Durham, North Carolina Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/1789c/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/107df/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 320w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/293e9/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 500w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/f2cbb/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 800w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/1789c/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 960w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/c26c2/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/1dd6e/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/67b76/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 320w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/8df11/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 500w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/98a65/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 800w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/1dd6e/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 960w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/3cc96/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Your Durham, North Carolina Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"When it comes to selecting grass for your Durham lawn, you have options. Let’s explore which ones are the right fit for your lawn."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"18973f4d-a6fe-5953-a87b-24b14dc8b996","slug":"best-native-plants-atlanta","path":"/lawn-care/ga/atlanta/best-native-plants-atlanta/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f552cb4e-e448-57f4-a5a4-d001c98833f6","name":"Atlanta","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ga/atlanta/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"With Atlanta’s moderate climate and ample rainfall, it’s home to a variety of beautiful native plants that can add color and texture to your garden. As you design your landscape, note that plants native to Atlanta offer several advantages over non-native species. If you’re ready to create a more sustainable and diverse outdoor space that […]
\n","content":"\nWith Atlanta’s moderate climate and ample rainfall, it’s home to a variety of beautiful native plants that can add color and texture to your garden. As you design your landscape, note that plants native to Atlanta offer several advantages over non-native species.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to create a more sustainable and diverse outdoor space that celebrates the natural beauty of Atlanta, here are 12 native plants to get you started.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/american-beautyberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Donald Lee Pardue / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the woodlands of the southeastern United States, American beautyberry is commonly found growing along forest perimeters and in the areas adjacent to the woods – spanning from Texas and Oklahoma all the way to Florida and up to Maryland.
\n\n\n\nThis deciduous shrub is a member of the mint family and boasts bright purple berries that cluster along its stems from August to November. Its green leaves turn yellow in the fall, creating a striking contrast with the berries.
\n\n\n\nAtlanta homeowners love American beautyberry not just for its ornamental value but also for its practical uses. And if you’re an avid bird watcher, its berries are a favorite among local bird species. Since it’s relatively easy to grow and requires minimal care, this native plant is an excellent understory shrub for any Atlanta garden. For mass plantings, red chokeberry, oakleaf hydrangea, and great laurel are excellent companion plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6b-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall, 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun and partial shade – needs at least four hours of exposure to direct sunlight per day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows best in rich, organic loam soil but can tolerate a range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – around 1 inch per week (during dry spells, it needs slow, deep watering)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but may cause mild stomach cramps if taken in large amounts
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bigleaf-Magnolia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Soil-Science.info / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBigleaf Magnolias are beautiful hardwood trees with huge leaves and large, fragrant flowers. They’re particularly abundant in the Appalachian Mountains, but you can find them planted in a variety of settings throughout Atlanta, including public parks, gardens, and natural areas. Even the historic Oakland Cemetery has a number of bigleaf magnolias planted.
\n\n\n\nWith its impressive size and striking appearance, the “queenliest of all the deciduous magnolias” is an excellent addition to woodland gardens or partially shaded areas. Its fragrant, creamy white flowers, which can be up to 12 inches in diameter, bloom in spring. During its bloom time, this shade tree attracts various pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 30-60 feet tall, 20-30 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous – semi-evergreen in the deep South
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows best in loose, well-drained, and moist neutral to acidic soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – but can be drought-tolerant
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bottlebrush-Buckeye.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wendy Cutler / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCommonly found in western Georgia, bottlebrush buckeyes are so named for their showy, white flower clusters, which resemble the shape of a bottlebrush. The distinctive flowers typically bloom in late spring or early summer, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nIn the fall, the shrub’s green leaves turn a lovely shade of yellow-green, providing additional visual interest. Low-maintenance yet impressive, the bottlebrush buckeye prefers well-drained, mostly wet soil and can tolerate partial shade. This border plant is excellent for lining driveways and property lines.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-12 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Can tolerate partial shade but does best in full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – infrequent but deep watering
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Very poisonous to both humans and animals
\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 is popular for attracting pollinators, especially butterflies, to gardens and landscapes. In fact, it’s an important host plant for monarch butterflies, providing crucial habitat for their eggs and larvae. You’ll see butterfly milkweed planted in various outdoor spaces throughout Atlanta, such as gardens, nature centers, and parks like Piedmont Park.
\n\n\n\nSince this perennial herb can tolerate drought conditions and prefers full sun and well-drained soil, it’s perfect for planting in hot, dry areas. It typically blooms in the summer, producing clusters of bright orange flowers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All its parts are toxic and can even be fatal if consumed in large amounts
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Carolina-Silverbell.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Alliance for Historic Hillsborough / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, the Carolina silverbell is valued for its showy, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring – which is typically before its leaves reappear. The drooping clusters of white or light pink flowers add aesthetic appeal while attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to see how these ornamental trees look in person before you plant them in your backyard, you can go to Lullwater Conservation Garden, which has a collection of native plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-40 feet tall, 15-35 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The seeds can be toxic and fatal to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"white](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coastal-Pepperbush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnother perennial shrub native to Atlanta, Coastal Pepperbush, can be found in stream banks, swamps, and hillside bogs. Its bloom time is typically mid to late summer, producing fragrant white or pink flowers that are a favorite of butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The plant’s leaves are deep green and can turn a lovely shade of yellow in the fall.
\n\n\n\nThis native shrub can tolerate salt spray and is also a good choice for naturalizing – it can be used in rain gardens or as a groundcover to prevent erosion. With its fragrant flowers and adaptability to coastal environments, the Coastal Pepperbush is an excellent addition to any southeastern garden.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist to wet, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle is a beautiful vine that is native to the Southeast, including Georgia. It typically blooms in the spring, producing bright coral-red flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds, bumblebees, and other pollinators. This perennial vine is also the larval host plant for both the snowberry clearwing moth and spring azure butterfly.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant this vine to attract wildlife to your garden, as its berries are a food source for birds like the Eastern bluebird and American goldfinch. With its showy flowers and importance to wildlife, coral honeysuckle is an excellent addition to any southeastern garden focused on conservation and sustainability.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-20 feet long
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen to evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows in most soil types but prefers rich, well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Its red berries are toxic to humans but favored by birds
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: gailhampshire / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nA beautiful flowering vine, crossvine can climb up fences and trees – reaching up to 50 feet in length. The natural habitat for this fast-growing vine includes forests, lowlands, uplands, and clearings, but it can be an excellent choice for adding color and visual appeal to your Atlanta garden. This vine is also deer-resistant and can be used to cover unsightly fences or walls.
\n\n\n\nThe cross-shaped pattern inside its trumpet-shaped, red-orange flowers is where this perennial vine got its common name. Its bloom time is usually in the spring but can be as early as late winter. Plus, its glossy green leaves can provide an attractive backdrop to the flowers. Allowing this vine to spread out horizontally on a sun-drenched incline would make for excellent groundcover.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 36-50 feet long
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous to mostly evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flowering-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Derek Ramsey / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nA common tree species in Atlanta, flowering dogwoods are planted throughout the city in parks and gardens, and along streets and sidewalks. The best places to see flowering dogwoods include Piedmont Park and Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail.
\n\n\n\nThe flowering dogwood is so named for its showy, four-petaled flowers, which are white or pink and bloom in early spring before the tree’s leaves appear. The lovely flowers also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. In the fall, the tree’s leaves turn a vibrant red before falling off, providing additional visual interest.
\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree is also an important food source for birds like the Eastern bluebird and northern cardinal, as its bright red berries provide nourishment in the fall and winter.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-65 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Part shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The fruit is poisonous to humans
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mountain-Azalea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, mountain azaleas can be found growing in some parks and gardens throughout the Atlanta area. It typically blooms in mid to late spring and provides any garden with a striking display of pink and white flowers. And during fall, its light green leaves turn a lovely yellow color.
\n\n\n\nWhether used as a specimen or planted in masses, the mountain azalea prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, making it fantastic for planting in woodland gardens or other shaded areas. This perennial shrub is also an important source of nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, as well as a host plant for the caterpillars of the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mountain-Silverbell.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nMountain silverbell got its common name from its bell-shaped, white or pinkish flowers. It usually blooms in early spring before the tree’s leaves appear. In the fall, the tree’s leaves turn a vibrant yellow, providing additional visual interest.
\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree is relatively average in height compared to other larger, more common species, but it can grow up to a height of around 60 feet. It’s also an important food source for wildlife, as its fruit provides nourishment for birds like the Northern Bobwhite and wild turkey.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 60 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, organic loam soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Maple.jpg\")
Red Maple Tree
Photo Credit: David Wagner / PublicDomainPictures / CC0 1.0
Native to eastern North America, red maples can be found from Canada to Florida and west to Texas. In Atlanta, you’ll find these perennial trees in parks and gardens like Grant Park and Atlanta Botanical Garden, as well as many residential neighborhoods throughout the city.
\n\n\n\nThe red maple is so named for its red flowers, twigs, and leaves, which exude striking appeal throughout the year. The tree’s leaves are bright green in the spring and summer and turn a brilliant red or orange in the fall, making it an excellent choice for a shade tree that adds vibrant colors to your yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-60 feet tall, 25-45 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist to dry, slightly acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic, especially the wilted and dried leaves
\n\n\n\nAs the capital and largest city in the state of Georgia, Atlanta boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, from the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains to the coastal plains of the Georgia Piedmont. This means that Atlanta is home to many native plants, including mountain azalea, American beautyberry, and flowering dogwoods.
\n\n\n\nHowever, not all native plants will thrive in every part of the city, as each area has its unique soil composition, rainfall patterns, and sun exposure.
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting native plants for your Atlanta landscape, consider each plant’s specific needs and the conditions of your yard. For example, plants that prefer acidic soil, such as mountain azaleas, may not do well in areas with alkaline soil. Similarly, plants that require full sun exposure, such as butterfly milkweed, may not thrive in shady areas.
\n\n\n\nBy choosing native plants well-suited to your microclimate, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape that supports local wildlife and helps preserve Atlanta’s natural beauty.
\n\n\n\nAtlanta is generally considered to be in USDA hardiness zone 7b, with an average annual minimum temperature range of 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some parts of the city may fall into neighboring hardiness zones, depending on their specific microclimate and elevation. It’s crucial to keep your hardiness zone in mind when selecting plants for your landscape, as it can help you choose plants that are well-suited to the local climate and will thrive in your yard.
\n\n\n\nIn general, a plant is considered native to a certain area if it has evolved and existed in that region for a long time. These plants have adapted to the local climate, soil, and other environmental conditions, making them well-suited to thrive in their native habitat.
The best time to plant native shrubs and flowering plants in Atlanta is typically in the fall or early spring. During these times, the temperatures are mild and rainfall is more abundant.
In the fall, planting should be done before the first frost, which typically occurs in late November or early December in Atlanta. Doing so gives the plants enough time to establish themselves before the winter cold.
In the spring, planting should be done after the last frost, which typically occurs in mid-to-late March in Atlanta. This way, the plants can take advantage of the longer days, warmer temperatures, and spring showers, which promote growth and establishment.
Native plants are essential for maintaining healthy and sustainable ecosystems. These plants have evolved over time to thrive in their specific environments, providing important ecological functions and supporting local wildlife.
Support biodiversity: One of the primary benefits of native plants is their ability to support biodiversity. Native plants provide food and habitat for various animals, including insects, birds, and mammals. For example, native flowering plants provide nectar and pollen for bees and butterflies, while native trees and shrubs provide shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals.
Support the soil: Native plants also help maintain soil health and prevent erosion. These plants have adapted to local soil conditions and help to build healthy soil structures, which in turn can reduce soil erosion and improve water quality.
Support the ecosystem: Native plants also require less water and fertilizer than non-native plants, making them more sustainable and cost-effective choices for landscaping. Plus, they can help create healthy and diverse ecosystems that are more resilient to invasive species.
When it comes to watering native plants, timing and frequency are key. Generally, it’s important to water deeply and infrequently rather than applying small amounts of water frequently. This helps to encourage deep root growth, which in turn promotes plant health and resilience.
Native plants should be watered when the top inch of the soil already feels dry to the touch. This may vary depending on local weather conditions, soil type, and the plant’s specific needs. During hot, dry weather, native plants may require more frequent watering to maintain proper moisture levels. But don’t overdo it to avoid issues like root rot.
It’s better to apply water directly to the base of the plant rather than spraying the leaves or flowers. This helps to prevent fungal growth and other plant diseases.
In addition to proper watering, it’s also important to mulch around the base of native plants. Doing so can help retain moisture in the soil and reduce water evaporation while also suppressing weed growth and promoting soil health.
If you’re looking to incorporate more native plants into your Atlanta landscape, there are several local nurseries and plant resources to check out. However, it’s important to remember to source your plants ethically and never transplant them from the wild.
\n\n\n\nA great resource for finding information on trees, wildflowers, and other native plant species, the Georgia Native Plant Society also recommends the following local nurseries in the Atlanta area:
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting native plants for your landscape, consider the specific environmental conditions of your site, such as soil type, sun exposure, grass type, and drainage. But filling your yard with native plants is just one step in creating a sustainable and low-maintenance landscape. You also must consider other landscaping ideas that complement your native plants, such as mulching, composting, and using rain barrels to capture and reuse rainwater.
Transform your lawn into a beautiful and thriving garden with the help of a professional landscaper. Connect with a local landscaping pro today.
Main Image Credit: Pixnio
\n","title":"12 Best Native Plants for Atlanta, GA","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/1789c/native-plants.jpg","srcSet":"/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/107df/native-plants.jpg 320w,\n/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/293e9/native-plants.jpg 500w,\n/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/f2cbb/native-plants.jpg 800w,\n/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/1789c/native-plants.jpg 960w,\n/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/c26c2/native-plants.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/1dd6e/native-plants.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/67b76/native-plants.webp 320w,\n/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/8df11/native-plants.webp 500w,\n/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/98a65/native-plants.webp 800w,\n/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/1dd6e/native-plants.webp 960w,\n/static/413df98d0ef7adeb7bd21a9968029632/3cc96/native-plants.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"12 Best Native Plants for Atlanta, GA | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the best native plants for Atlanta and where to buy these landscape plants that thrive in humid subtropical climates."}}},{"node":{"id":"f4d73e26-dfaf-5802-9f3e-eb0843e5d31d","slug":"best-grass-seeds-colorado","path":"/lawn-care/co/best-grass-seeds-colorado/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"be8bb3a1-b40c-57ba-87f7-ff69490271a0","name":"Colorado","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 22nd, 2023","excerpt":"Colorado’s grass faces a tough challenge due to its climate. Between the cold winters and dry, hot summers, the extreme temperature shifts can cause your lawn to look withered and brown. Planting the right grass seeds is essential to ensure a resilient and lush-looking landscape. Here you will find the 5 best grass seeds for […]
\n","content":"\nColorado’s grass faces a tough challenge due to its climate. Between the cold winters and dry, hot summers, the extreme temperature shifts can cause your lawn to look withered and brown. Planting the right grass seeds is essential to ensure a resilient and lush-looking landscape. Here you will find the 5 best grass seeds for Colorado and helpful tips to maintain a great-looking lawn throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses and warm-season grasses are two broad categories of grasses adapted to different climate conditions.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses grow best in regions with cooler temperatures and moderate rainfall. Typically, they are planted during autumn or the beginning of spring when the ground is moist and cold. These grasses stay green throughout the fall and spring but tend to go dormant and turn brown during hot and dry summer months and extreme winters.
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, warm-seasons thrive in regions with hot summers and mild winters. They are planted in late spring or early summer when the soil is moist and warm and stay green throughout summer. These types of grasses go dormant and turn brown in the fall and winter when temperatures drop.
\n\n\n\nOverall, the main difference between cool-season and warm-season grasses lies in their adaptation to temperature and moisture conditions and their growth patterns throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nColorado’s common cool-season grasses include tall fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescue. Keep on reading to know more about them.
\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 great grass option for a Colorado yard. It has a high-quality appearance that adds beauty and value to any property. However, it may require frequent irrigation to maintain its health and vibrancy. While it is prone to thatch formation and some diseases and insects, Kentucky bluegrass is incredibly cold tolerant, making it ideal for the harsh winters in Colorado.
\n\n\n\nIt spreads by rhizomes, which allows it to repair itself, making it a durable option for high-traffic areas. Although it can tolerate drought, it may turn brown during hot, dry summers, and it requires frequent mowing to keep it at a healthy height. Overall, Kentucky bluegrass is an excellent grass choice for a Colorado yard due to its appearance, cold tolerance, and self-repairing abilities.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It has a higher tolerance for close, frequent grazing than other grasses and forms a dense sod.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a fantastic option for homeowners looking to add a touch of beauty to their Colorado yards. This grass species boasts a gorgeous dark hue that enhances the beauty of any backyard. One of the best features of perennial ryegrass is its quick establishment, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a fast and easy solution.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, it doesn’t thatch easily and is highly resistant to harsh soil conditions, making it an incredibly low-maintenance option. Perennial ryegrass has rapid growth and a high tolerance for foot traffic, which is perfect for families with active children or pets.
\n\n\n\nIt can even handle partial shade, making it a versatile option for different areas of your yard. However, it’s important to note that perennial ryegrass requires significant water usage and doesn’t tolerate drought well. But with the proper care and attention, this beautiful grass species will thrive in your Colorado yard and leave you with a stunning landscape to enjoy.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spots, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8 but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: For a more durable and disease-resistant turf, mixing it with Kentucky bluegrass is common.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine fescue is an excellent choice for a Colorado yard for various reasons. Firstly, it is incredibly drought-resistant, a valuable trait in an arid climate like Colorado’s. Additionally, fine fescue is a low-maintenance grass species that requires less frequent mowing and fertilizing, making it an eco-friendly option that saves you time and money.
\n\n\n\nHowever, it’s worth noting that fine fescue isn’t very heat-tolerant. Additionally, it’s not ideal for high-traffic areas. But if you’re looking for a low-maintenance, shade-tolerant, and drought-resistant grass species that adds beauty to your yard, fine fescue is a fantastic option to consider.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red Fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. It prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: To create a lush and visually appealing lawn that can tolerate both shade and drought, fine fescue grasses are commonly mixed with other cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass. This combination results in a dense, attractive lawn that is durable and resistant to challenging weather conditions.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to finding the perfect grass for a Colorado yard, tall fescue is definitely worth considering. This hardy grass species has an impressive root system that can reach down two or three feet, making it incredibly heat- and drought-resistant. Tall fescue establishes and germinates quickly, so you won’t wait long to see your lawn come to life. Additionally, it doesn’t form much thatch.
\n\n\n\nHowever, it’s worth noting that tall fescue doesn’t self-repair easily from damage, so there may be better choices for high-traffic areas. Despite this, if you’re looking for a grass species that can handle the challenges of a Colorado climate and still look great, tall fescue is definitely one to consider.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: After enduring hot and dry summer conditions, many tall fescue lawns tend to become thin, which can result in unsightly clumps. Overseeding tall fescue lawns in the fall is often necessary to avoid this issue. This simple practice can help maintain your lawn’s overall health and appearance.
\n\n\n\nColorado has limited options when it comes to warm-season grass types. Buffalograss is the only grass native to the area and exhibits remarkable natural adaptability to extreme heat, cold, and drought. Thanks to its hardy nature, buffalograss is a good choice for homeowners looking to maintain a beautiful lawn even in the face of challenging weather conditions.
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is a fantastic choice for homeowners in Colorado who want a low-maintenance lawn that can withstand the state’s harsh climate. With infrequent mowing and fertilization requirements, it’s an excellent choice for those who wish to spend less time tending to their yard. Buffalograss has excellent drought tolerance, making it a great choice for those hot and dry summers.
\n\n\n\nHowever, its low density can result in weed problems, so staying on top of weed control is important. Additionally, there are better options for high-traffic areas. Overall, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn, buffalograss could be an excellent choice.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs. Requires weed control.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 2 and 3 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases and insects.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native clay soils, not sandy soils.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: While its tolerance for harsh conditions is impressive, buffalograss struggles with thatch buildup and has poor shade tolerance, so there may be better choices for areas with many trees or shaded spots.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a versatile option suitable for various situations and applications. In Colorado, it is the most commonly used grass type for lawns, and local growers produce top-quality bluegrass sod.
Fine fescues are known for their excellent cold tolerance. Still, among the cool-season grasses commonly used in northern lawns, Kentucky bluegrass is the most cold-hardy and can withstand extreme winter temperatures.
With its fine texture, shade tolerance, and low upkeep needs, fine fescue is a desirable choice for homeowners and landscapers as it is considered one of the most effortless cool-season grasses to maintain.
While all of the grass varieties described in this article can endure Colorado’s hot summers and cold winters, each type possesses distinct characteristics and maintenance requirements. Consequently, choosing the appropriate grass for your lawn is crucial.
\n\n\n\nIt involves considering available space, intended use, and your willingness to perform upkeep to ensure a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nIt’s worth noting that grass is only one component of a stunning landscape. Colorado offers many options for low-maintenance landscaping and native plants.
\n\n\n\nNeed help maintaining your outdoor space? Hire a local lawn care expert near you. We have trusted pros in Aurora, Colorado Springs, and many other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: University of Colorado Boulder / sk / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Seeds for Colorado","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/1789c/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.jpg","srcSet":"/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/107df/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.jpg 320w,\n/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/293e9/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.jpg 500w,\n/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/f2cbb/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.jpg 800w,\n/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/1789c/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.jpg 960w,\n/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/c26c2/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/1dd6e/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/67b76/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.webp 320w,\n/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/8df11/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.webp 500w,\n/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/98a65/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.webp 800w,\n/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/1dd6e/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.webp 960w,\n/static/92600e360e501f458a9af54527ab66c4/3cc96/University-of-Colorado-Boulder.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Seeds for Colorado","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Check out our top 5 picks that thrive in Colorado climate and soil conditions. Learn more about the 5 best grass seeds for your Colorado yard today."}}},{"node":{"id":"3163ae33-24fa-539d-a4ae-42162d441c6a","slug":"lawn-mowing-maintenance-fort-worth","path":"/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/lawn-mowing-maintenance-fort-worth/","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":"9ccd5174-167e-5379-890b-68ac830ec905","name":"Forth Worth","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 8th, 2019","excerpt":"Fort Worth has something to make everyone smile – plentiful sunshine, a square-jawed Western heritage, taco and barbecue joints everywhere and museums and universities galore. And lawns. Lots of lawns that need mowing watering and trimming. Here’s a guide to how to keep your Fort Worth lawn happy so you can spend more time on […]
\n","content":"\nFort Worth has something to make everyone smile – plentiful sunshine, a square-jawed Western heritage, taco and barbecue joints everywhere and museums and universities galore.
\n\n\n\nAnd lawns. Lots of lawns that need mowing watering and trimming. Here’s a guide to how to keep your Fort Worth lawn happy so you can spend more time on it, and more time enjoying the 13th-largest city in the United States.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth likes you to keep up the appearance of your lawn. In fact, it insists, in the form of a code compliance office that will issue you a notice if your grass is taller than 12 inches. Properties overgrown with high grass and weeds are not just unsightly, the city says, but “they pose a fire hazard, block visibility for driers, harbor rodents and snakes and contribute to pests like mosquitoes and chiggers.”
\n\n\n\nIgnore the notice for more than 10 days and the city will send out a crew to cut it for you. The cost: $250, payable within 30 days. Failure to pay can result in a lien being placed against the property.
\n\n\n\nIf your neighbor’s grass gets too high, the city makes it easy to file a complaint online.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass are the most common grasses for lawns in Fort Worth. Zoysia varieties are also making their mark.
\n\n\n\nIn the mood for something more exotic? Texas-bred native grasses based on buffalograss have great drought tolerance, though the appearance is scruffily untraditional. The Botanical Research Institute of Texas in Fort Worth is one of many buildings experimenting with a buffalograss blend.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses such as the ones that thrive in Fort Worth have their heaviest growth in the summer, so you’ll want to keep to a regular mowing schedule then. If you’re doing the job yourself in the 90+ degree heat, keep your mower blades sharp to prevent shredding that could injure your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMowing heights for different grass varieties are as follows:
\n\n\n\nIn the past, the typical practice was to remove lawn clippings and have them hauled to the landfill. That’s no longer the case, as lawn clippings are now seen as an important source of fertilizer for the lawn. On a typical lawn, leaving the clippings in place to decompose and return nitrogen to the soil for a full season added enough nutrients for you to skip one round of fertilization.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth’s climate is on the hot side, with average highs in the mid-90s in July and August. Expect about 40 inches of rain, with May, June and October the wettest months. That leaves a lot of hot, dry days in the mid to late summer in between, when your lawn will want a deep drink of water. But you’ll need to follow the city’s watering restrictions, imposed year-round to conserve the resource. Lawn irrigation by sprinkler or irrigation system is banned from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Penalties are stiff for violation: up to $2,000 for each offense.
\n\n\n\nBe polite and don’t mow too early or too late. The city has a noise ordinance. While it does not mention lawn mowers or leaf blowers specifically, it does bar “unreasonable noise,” especially at night.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about lawn mowing and maintenance in Fort Worth? We got you covered! Go to our Fort Worth, TX lawn care page for more information.
When picking plants for your Orlando, Florida landscape project it is important to make smart choices. The climate and soil types in Orlando can be harsh to many of the readily available plant choices found at most of the big box stores’ garden centers. It is wise to choose plants based on their tolerance to […]
\n","content":"\nWhen picking plants for your Orlando, Florida landscape project it is important to make smart choices. The climate and soil types in Orlando can be harsh to many of the readily available plant choices found at most of the big box stores’ garden centers. It is wise to choose plants based on their tolerance to the hot, humid climate and that can grow and thrive without the need for excessive amounts of water and fertilizers. Picking plants that are generally self-sufficient given the naturally copious amounts of bright sunlight and fresh rainwater will be better for you, your landscape, and the environment.
\n\n\n\nThe following 5 landscape plants were chosen as ‘Perfect for Orlando’ because they are either native to the Central Florida region, or they are easily established and noninvasive in the Orlando landscape, and are easy to care for in residential and commercial settings.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i1.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/saw-palmetto.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1\")
This member of the palm family is slow-growing yet a very long-lived plant (some have been found to be 500-700 years old!) and is an iconic Floridian choice for any area in your yard you want to make feel breezy and tropical. Its clumping form helps make a few plants look like a full, dense planting. It likes to grow under trees with some sunlight. The color of its palm-like leaves can vary from yellow-green, green, dark green and silvery green when grown near the coast. The Saw Palmetto’s flowers are a perfect food source for sought after pollinators and provide habitat for desirable pollinators such as native bees and moths.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i2.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/american-beautyberry.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1\")
This shrub is a rarity in Florida in that it’s deciduous, meaning it loses its leaves in winter.
\n\n\n\nAttractive to wildlife and easy to care for, American beautyberry is known for its bright fuschia-purple berry clusters during the cooler months of the year. Though this shrub is a Florida native plant (and grows naturally throughout the southern United States), it’s not always on hand at garden centers so be sure to ask your favorite garden supplier to order you what you will need.
\n\n\n\nBeautyberry attracts birds and butterflies and has a casual rambling look that works well in as a backdrop to home foundations or along walls. Just be sure to give it lots of space to grow as it could crowd its plant neighbors. Since it takes almost any kind of light, this is one plant that can be used in light shade areas that receive mainly dappled sun (though deer may be more tempted to munch on it there).
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i2.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/auntie-lou-cordyline.jpg?fit=1024%2C866&ssl=1\")
The beautiful deep burgundy foliage of the Auntie Lou Cordyline (Cordyline
Cordyline, also called Ti Plants, don’t like to stay wet, so give them regular irrigation with time to dry out a bit between watering. Partial sun to shade is best. They can grow to 3’ to 6’ tall and 2’ to 3’ wide, the perfect choice when selecting a plant to stand as a backdrop in a mixed planting bed.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/crotons.jpg?fit=1024%2C576&ssl=1\")
Crotons are possibly the most popular of Orlando’s colorful foliage plants, with brilliantly-colored leaves streaked with gold, red, orange, green and even pink. They are easy to care for shrubs that provide an instant infusion of color and low-maintenance needs for any size yard. They feature varieties with many leaf types and sizes from swirly, narrow ribbons to wide, flat leaves. Some have fun names like Dreadlocks, Curly Boy, or Sloppy Painter.
\n\n\n\nNo matter which you choose, consider planting different varieties together for a riot of color and a mix of textures, or place several of the same variety to grow together in a “drift.” These gorgeous shrubs can jazz up an all-green landscape or work well with flowering shrubs or other plants prized for their bright foliage like the Cordyline ‘Red Sister’ variety. A benefit of mixing crotons with flowering shrubs is the consistency of color in the landscape, even while other plants are not in bloom.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/robellini-palm.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1\")
When you think of typical Florida palm trees, an image of tall tree trunks stretching toward the sky often comes to mind. However, the robellini palm (Phoenix roebelenii) offers a miniature palm choice growing to a maximum of 12 feet. When selecting your specific tree, look for plants with 3 trunks (or ask your garden supplier for this specifically) as the odd number grouping provides a more aesthetic appearance. Although robellini palms enjoy the sun, they do prefer some shade during the hotter afternoon hours. If your palm will be planted in a container or pot, move the plant to an east-facing area that is sheltered from the sun’s rays for part of the day. Keep in mind the proximity of your new robellini palm to sidewalks and entryways. The tips of the fronds are often very pokey and can cause painful pricks if one gets too close.
\n\n\n\nTaking the time to research which plants are best for the natural conditions in Orlando will help save you time and money when it comes to landscape longevity and the amount of maintenance you must perform over the lifetime of the garden. These are just a few examples of the wide variety available to those living in the lush, humid subtropical climate of sunny Orlando, Florida!
\n\n\n\nStill have questions about landscaping or lawn care? Visit our Orlando page for more details!
\n\n\n\nTop Photo: Orlando Plants and Trees
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\n","content":"\nNevada, known as the Silver State, is famous for its vibrant Las Vegas casinos, luxurious hotels, and bright lights. It’s also known for its desert landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. With its arid climate and scorching temperatures, it’s no surprise that many homeowners in Nevada are turning to desert gardening to transform their outdoor spaces. But finding the right plants for this harsh environment can be a challenge.
\n\n\n\nFortunately, these 19 best desert landscaping plants for Nevada can thrive in the state’s climate and add beauty and interest to any landscape. From the iconic Joshua tree to the stunning creosote bush, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking to create a lush oasis or a minimalist xeriscape, these plants are sure to inspire and bring a touch of desert magic to your own backyard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nThe following drought-resistant plants can tolerate Nevada’s unique climate while also beautifying and adding character to any garden:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-Palo-Verde-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNative to the Southwest, including California, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Nevada, blue palo verde is a stunning desert tree highly recommended for homeowners in Southern Nevada. It also can grow in Northern Nevada, although it is less commonly planted in gardens in this region.
\n\n\n\nWith a smooth, green bark and tiny, wispy leaves that are almost invisible to the naked eye, this perennial tree blooms in the spring and produces striking yellow flowers that add color to any landscape. Its fruits are small, brown pods that split open to release seeds, which can be used to propagate new plants.
\n\n\n\nThis low-maintenance plant requires little water once established, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a water-wise landscaping option. The best time to plant blue palo verde is in the fall or winter – when the plant is dormant, and the temperatures are cooler. Consider underplanting it with low-growing, drought-tolerant plants like agave or desert marigold.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-25 feet tall, 15-20 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers slightly alkaline, sandy, loam, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic – but its bark and twigs are covered in small thorns, which can cause injury if not handled carefully
\n\n\n\n![\"Brittlebush\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Brittlebush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Copyright by Curtis Clark, licensed as noted / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOften found growing in the high desert regions of Nevada, brittlebush has silver-gray leaves covered in fine hairs to reflect the sun’s heat. Its yellow daisy-like flowers bloom from February to May, making it an early spring bloomer that attracts various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nIt produces small, brown, triangular-shaped seeds that are dispersed by the wind and can be used to propagate new plants. The best time to plant brittlebush is in the fall or early spring, as it can be sensitive to frost.
\n\n\n\nThis drought-tolerant plant is highly resistant to pests and diseases. And although it’s not poisonous to humans or animals, its leaves and stems are covered in small, sharp hairs that can irritate the skin, so you must wear gloves when handling it.
\n\n\n\nAlso, note that its leaves contain a water-soluble substance that inhibits the growth of certain winter annual plants, indicating its allelopathic nature. Moreover, it competes with buffalograss, which can affect the survival of both species in the same area.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen – but deciduous after extreme drought or frost
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Creosote](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Creosote-Bush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Stan Shebs / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA hardy and resilient desert plant, creosote bush is well-suited for gardens in Nevada. This deer-resistant plant can be found growing throughout the state, especially in the Mojave and Sonoran deserts.
\n\n\n\nThis evergreen shrub features small, waxy leaves that give off a distinct aroma when crushed. Its yellow flowers bloom in the summer and spring, creating a striking contrast against the backdrop of the arid desert landscape and attracting bees and other pollinators. These flowers give way to fluffy, white seed heads that can be propagated to create new plants.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to plant creosote bush is in the fall. Once established, this drought-tolerant plant has low water needs, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens. You also can underplant it with other desert-friendly plants, such as brittlebush, desert marigold, or firecracker penstemon.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-8 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, loamy, or sandy soil but can thrive even in dry and rocky soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to both humans and animals – plus, its leaves and branches are covered in a resinous coating that can cause skin irritation in some people.
\n\n\n\n![\"Date](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Date-Palm-Tree.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Balaram Mahalder / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile date palms are typically found in the warmer regions of Southern Nevada, they also can grow well in other regions throughout Nevada with proper care. These palm trees have been cultivated for their sweet, nutritious fruit for thousands of years. In Nevada, they are commonly planted in residential and commercial landscapes, especially in areas with a Mediterranean climate.
\n\n\n\nDate palms have long, slender fronds with a blue-green color that adds a tropical feel to any landscape. This evergreen tree typically blooms in late winter or early spring, producing small yellowish-white flowers that give way to clusters of edible, oval-shaped dates ranging in color from golden yellow to dark brown, depending on the ripeness.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Palm tree or cycad
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 9-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 50-80 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, loamy, clay, chalk, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Slightly toxic – its thorns are poisonous and may cause injuries
\n\n\n\n![\"Desert](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Desert-Bluebells.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jarek Tuszyński / CC-BY-SA-3.0 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNative to the Southwest, desert bluebell thrives in arid conditions, making it a perfect fit for the dry climate of Nevada. It’s best suited for gardens in Southern Nevada, including the Las Vegas Valley and the Mojave Desert, but it also can grow well in other regions with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
\n\n\n\nWith finely textured and bright green foliage, this small, annual wildflower blooms from March to May and produces vibrant blue, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThis evergreen shrub is generally low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and does not require much water once established. Plus, it is highly resistant to diseases and pests. Desert bluebells are excellent for rock gardens, mixed borders, patios, and containers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-24 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows in dry soil but prefers well-drained, chalk, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – all parts of the plant are poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/49307867082_fdf6b629eb_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: A S / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA good candidate for xeriscaping in Nevada, desert holly is a beautiful and resilient desert plant that can tolerate various temperatures and soil types. It’s native to the Southwest and can be found in areas like the Mojave Desert and the Great Basin. You’ll find it commonly planted in cities like Las Vegas and Reno.
\n\n\n\nDesert holly has a unique appearance with spiky, silvery-green leaves that shimmer in the sunlight. This small, perennial plant is evergreen in warmer climates but may lose its leaves during colder winters. It blooms in the late spring and summer and produces small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers.
\n\n\n\nWith its silvery foliage and spiky appearance that makes it stand out among other desert plants, this drought-tolerant plant doesn’t require much watering. It also can tolerate high alkalinity.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-5 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, well-drained, stony, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Desert](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Desert-Marigold.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Stan Shebs / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith its natural habitat being in the Mojave Desert, this short-lived perennial is best suited for gardens in Southern Nevada. It blooms from February to November, producing vibrant yellow flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Along with the plant’s fern-like leaves that have a soft texture and blue-green color, these daisy-like flowers can add a pop of color to any desert garden.
\n\n\n\nThis flowering plant is deer-resistant and can thrive even in dry soil. Plus, it’s drought-tolerant and requires low water, making it an ideal choice for desert landscaping. To make it more beautiful in your garden, deadhead the spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. Additionally, pruning it back in the fall can help it maintain its shape and keep it looking healthy.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Short-lived perennial or biennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, moist, clay, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – once a month watering once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic, especially to sheep and goats
\n\n\n\n![\"Desert](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Desert-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Walter Siegmund / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDesert sage is another desert landscaping plant well-suited to the arid climate of Nevada. This hardy perennial is native to the western United States and grows in the wild throughout Nevada’s desert regions. Due to its cold hardiness and ability to withstand winter temperatures, it’s particularly well-suited to gardens in Northern Nevada.
\n\n\n\nThis member of the mint family produces clusters of fragrant, pale purple flowers on spikes reaching up to 2 feet. The leaves are an attractive silvery-gray color with a woolly texture, and the shrub’s overall form is compact. Prune it back after the blooming season to encourage new growth and prevent woody stems from forming.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to plant desert sage is in the fall, allowing it to establish its roots before the hot summer months. This drought-tolerant perennial is relatively low-maintenance and requires little water once established – making it an ideal addition to gravel and rock gardens, xeriscapes, and other water-wise landscaping designs.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Thrives in well-drained, dry, chalk, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic, especially to cats
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2574684229_2588e9e3f9_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ken Bosma / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNative to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico, desert willow is commonly found in areas with hot, dry summers and mild winters. It can be planted in both northern and southern regions of Nevada, as long as it’s given adequate water and care.
\n\n\n\nWith long, narrow, and willow-like leaves and a light gray bark with a smooth texture, desert willow is a low-maintenance plant that requires low water once established. This beautiful and hardy plant blooms in the late spring or early summer. It produces showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that range in color from pink to purple to white. It is a larval host to several species of butterflies, making it a great addition to a pollinator garden.
\n\n\n\nPrune it lightly in the winter to promote healthy growth, and water it deeply once a week during the summer months. You also can surround it with other native plants and wildflowers to create a vibrant and diverse landscape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub or small tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 15-30 feet tall, 10-20 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained soil but grows well in most soil types
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic – but its bark can be poisonous to animals, especially cats
\n\n\n\n![\"Firecracker](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Firecracker-penstemon.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommonly found in the wild in various regions of Nevada, including the Great Basin, Mojave Desert, and Sierra Nevada Mountains, firecracker penstemon can live for many years. Its natural habitat is rocky or sandy soils, often in dry washes, and it’s well-suited for hot, arid climates.
\n\n\n\nFirecracker penstemon produces striking red-orange flowers that resemble firecrackers, hence the name. Its blooms appear in late spring to early summer and are popular with bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nThis drought-tolerant perennial plant has long, narrow leaves with a blue-green hue and a slightly hairy texture. Planting it in well-draining soil and full sun will promote optimal growth and flowering, but you’ll want to deadhead spent blooms regularly. Additionally, pruning the plant back by one-third in the fall will encourage a more compact and bushy habit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Forb to shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen to evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moderately well-drained, loamy, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – can be poisonous, and even fatal, to pets and children
\n\n\n\n![\"Golden](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Golden-Barrel-Cactus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Cliff from Arlington, Virginia, USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKnown for its striking appearance and easy maintenance, the golden barrel cactus is commonly planted in xeriscapes and rock gardens in Southern Nevada. This cactus is native to the hot, dry regions of central Mexico, but it is well-suited to the desert climates of Southern Nevada. It can provide shelter for small desert animals, such as lizards and rodents.
\n\n\n\nExtremely drought-tolerant, golden barrel cactus does not require much watering. In fact, overwatering this succulent can lead to root rot and other diseases. It’s also fairly low-maintenance and does not require much pruning or fertilization. Plus, it can thrive even in dry, rocky soil and produce small, yellow flowers in the summer. With its round, ball-shaped form and golden-yellow spines, it’s a striking addition to any desert landscape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Cactus or succulent
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 9-12
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, loamy, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – its sap can cause skin irritations and its spines are also harmful
\n\n\n\n![\"Honey](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Honey-Mesquite.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Don A.W. Carlson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNative to the Chihuahuan, Sonoran, and Mojave deserts, honey mesquite is well adapted to the hot, dry conditions of Nevada. This hardy, drought-tolerant tree is a staple of the arid Southwest. It can be found in many regions throughout the state, including Southern Nevada, where it’s commonly planted in urban and residential areas.
\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree blooms from late spring to early summer, producing small, yellowish-green flowers highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. The tree’s leaves are feathery and light green, and its bark is rough and gray-brown. Its long, flat, and brown fruits contain sweet, edible pods that have been used for food by indigenous peoples for thousands of years.
\n\n\n\nOnce established, this perennial plant requires minimal watering – making it a low-maintenance and water-efficient choice for desert landscaping. To make honey mesquite more beautiful in your garden, you can prune it to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub or small tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-30 feet tall, 25-30 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows in most soil types but prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – doesn’t need supplemental watering once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Can be toxic to animals if consumed in large amounts
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Joshua_Trees_Yucca_brevifolia_in_Joshua_Tree_National_Park-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Brocken Inaglory / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoshua tree is a unique and iconic plant that thrives in the Mojave Desert. This desert tree is commonly found in the southern region of Nevada, including areas like Las Vegas and the Mojave National Preserve. It’s best suited for landscaping in this region due to its specific habitat requirements.
\n\n\n\nIn the wild, this slow-growing tree can grow more than 30 feet tall and have a lifespan of hundreds of years. With its tall, spiky branches and green, sword-like leaves, the Joshua tree has a distinctive look that makes it seem like an extremely tall person from a distance. It blooms from late winter to early spring, producing large clusters of creamy white flowers that attract pollinators like the yucca moth.
\n\n\n\nWhile growing Joshua trees from seeds may be challenging, transplanting young trees can be successful. The best time to plant Joshua trees in a garden is during winter – when temperatures are cooler. It requires low maintenance and little water once established. But you can install low-level lighting to highlight the tree’s unique form and create a stunning nighttime display.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 15-30 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, well-drained, coarse soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – can be severely poisonous
\n\n\n\n![\"Lipstick](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Lipstick-Echeveria.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA popular and stunning succulent, lipstick echeveria is well-suited for desert gardening in both the northern and southern regions of Nevada, as it can tolerate a range of temperatures and soil conditions. This evergreen plant is native to Mexico and is often found growing in rocky areas, making it an ideal choice for gardens with gravel or rocky soil.
\n\n\n\nThis rosette-forming succulent blooms in late spring or early summer with small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, or yellow. Its leaves are fleshy and triangular, with a distinct red tip resembling lipstick.
\n\n\n\nYou can propagate it easily from leaf or stem cuttings. But as with most succulents, you must be careful when handling the plant as its leaves can be sharp and may cause skin irritation. Lipstick Echeveria is drought-tolerant and requires little water. It’s relatively disease-free, but watch out for aphids, vine weevil, and mealybugs.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Cactus or succulent
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 9-12
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6 inches tall and 8-12 inches wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows well in well-drained, rocky, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic – but it’s still not advisable to ingest any of its parts
\n\n\n\n![\"Prickly](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Prickly-pears-on-Opuntia-ficus-indica-Naxos-Greece.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mark Burgess / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlso known as Opuntia, prickly pear is one of the most versatile and adaptable succulents ideal for gardens throughout Nevada. This native plant grows wild in many areas across Nevada’s desert landscape, such as the Mojave Desert and the Great Basin Desert. It’s highly resistant to diseases but can be susceptible to mealybugs and cochineal scale.
\n\n\n\nIt has flat, paddle-shaped leaves with spines that grow from the edges. The pads can be green to blue-green, and some even have a purplish tint. In the spring, prickly pear produces beautiful yellow, orange, or red flowers that bloom for several weeks, attracting bees and other pollinators. It’s a larval host for the cactus moth and several species of butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial succulent can survive in harsh desert conditions with little water, rendering it low maintenance and ideal for homeowners who want a beautiful garden without too much upkeep. It is also drought-tolerant and can store water in its leaves, perfect for xeriscape gardens, hedges, screens, garden beds, and borders that focus on water conservation.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Cactus or succulent
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-12
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 5-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil but grows well even in dry, rocky soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – its fruit is edible but can be poisonous to children and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Rose](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rose-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dick Culbert from Gibsons, B.C., Canada / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRose sage is commonly found in the wild, growing on rocky slopes and dry hillsides throughout Nevada. With a natural habitat spanning from Northern Mexico to Southern Utah and California, this evergreen shrub is perfect for desert gardens in Southern Nevada – particularly in the Mojave Desert region, as it thrives in hot, arid conditions.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial plant blooms in the summer and early fall, producing delicate, pink flowers that contrast beautifully against its silvery-green, fuzzy leaves. To grow rose sage, it’s best to plant it in the fall or early spring, allowing it time to establish its roots before the hot summer months. It’s a perfect addition to gravel and rock gardens, patios, containers, and butterfly gardens.
\n\n\n\nRose sage requires well-draining soil and can be drought-tolerant once established. However, it benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged periods of drought. As a desert plant, it does not require much fertilizer and can even thrive in poor, dry soil.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun – but can tolerate shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows well in well-drained, chalk, loamy, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic, especially to dogs
\n\n\n\n![\"Sticky](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Sticky-Purple-Geranium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: brewbooks / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDue to its preference for hot, dry climates, sticky purple geranium is well-suited for gardens in Southern Nevada. Commonly found in rocky, desert areas of the Southwest, this wildflower’s natural habitat is typically in well-drained soils with full sun exposure. It blooms from late spring through summer, producing gorgeous magenta-purple flowers.
\n\n\n\nThe plant’s leaves are deeply lobed and have a sticky texture, hence its name. They are bright green – a great contrast to the striking purple flowers. It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant that’s also highly resistant to diseases and pests. To plant this lovely perennial, the best time is during mild weather in the early spring.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, dry-mesic to moist, sandy, clay, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Mildly toxic – geraniums can be poisonous to children and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Texas](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Texas-Olive.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Stan Shebs / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlso known as Anacahuita or wild olive, Texas olive is a fantastic choice for desert landscaping in Nevada. Although it’s native to South Texas and Mexico, it has adapted well to Nevada’s hot and dry climate. It has glossy, dark green leaves that give it a tropical appearance. It produces fragrant pink and white flowers in the spring and summer, attracting pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nIn Nevada, Texas olive is commonly planted in residential landscapes and public spaces, including parks and street medians. It’s tolerant of various soil types and requires little water once established, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners.
\n\n\n\nIt’s recommended to plant Texas olive in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler. This way, the plant can establish its roots before the summer heat arrives. Also, prune it to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub or tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 9-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 15-30 feet tall, 10-20 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen to semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers dry, well-drained, slightly alkaline soil but can thrive even in rocky soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Mildly toxic – its raw fruits can be slightly poisonous
\n\n\n\n![\"Utah](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Utah-Agave.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUtah agave is particularly well-suited to the dry and arid climate of Nevada, as it thrives in hot and sunny conditions. As such, it’s a great option for homeowners throughout the state who are looking to add low-maintenance greenery to their yards. Also known as Utah century plant, this succulent can tolerate a vast range of temperatures.
\n\n\n\nThe plant typically blooms in the late spring or early summer, producing a tall stalk of yellow flowers that can grow up to 20 feet tall. Its bluish-green leaves with spiky, symmetrical shape make it more appealing. This slow-growing plant can take several years to reach maturity, but it’s well worth the wait for its stunning appearance.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Cactus or succulent
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-24 inches tall and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers dry, well-drained, neutral to acidic, loamy, sandy, or rocky soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – rarely needs watering once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – its sap can be poisonous to both humans and pets, while its needle-sharp spines can be hazardous
\n\n\n\nSince the desert climate presents a huge challenge when it comes to landscaping, it’s crucial to choose the right plants to create a thriving, low-maintenance garden that can withstand harsh environmentals and limited water resources. Consider the following factors to discover if a plant is good for the desert:
\n\n\n\n✓ Native or desert-adapted: Select plants that are native to the region or have adapted to the arid conditions. These plants are already equipped with the ability to store water, resist drought, and handle high temperatures. They also provide important habitats and food sources for local wildlife.
\n\n\n\n✓ Low watering needs: Desert plants should be able to thrive with minimal watering once established, reducing the need for excessive irrigation. Look for plants with deep root systems that can access water from lower in the soil profile.
\n\n\n\n✓ Color: Plants with silver or gray foliage can reflect sunlight and reduce water loss through transpiration, while those with deep green foliage may require more water.
\n\n\n\n✓ Texture: Plants with spiky leaves or thorns can help deter animals from feeding on them, while softer, more succulent plants may be more vulnerable to damage.
\n\n\n\n✓ Beneficial: Look for plants that offer multiple benefits, such as providing shade, enhancing air quality, or attracting pollinators. Examples include trees like honey mesquite and blue palo verde, which provide shade while also fixing nitrogen in the soil, and native wildflowers like desert marigold and firecracker penstemon, which attract bees and butterflies while adding bursts of color to the landscape.
\n\n\n\nBy choosing the right desert landscaping plants, you can create a beautiful, sustainable garden that thrives in the unique conditions of your region. Depending on where you live in Nevada, the following information may serve as a guide. Note, though, that these data may still vary since they are just average numbers for each region.
\n\n\n\nNorthern Nevada:
\n\n\n\nSouthern Nevada:
\n\n\n\nCentral Nevada:
\n\n\n\nWestern Nevada:
\n\n\n\nWhile palm trees may not be the first that comes to mind when you think of Nevada’s desert climate, they can actually thrive in certain regions of the state. The best region for planting palm trees in the state is Southern Nevada, including the Las Vegas Valley area.
This area has a hot, arid climate, with mild winters and hot summers, making it suitable for planting palm trees. Still, you must choose palm tree varieties that are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. Some popular varieties for Southern Nevada include Mexican fan palm, date palm, and Mediterranean fan palm.
Yes, there are watering restrictions in place in certain regions of Nevada, particularly in the southern part of the state, due to ongoing drought conditions. The restrictions are designed to help conserve water and ensure that there is enough for essential uses like drinking, sanitation, and firefighting.
In Las Vegas, for example, the Southern Nevada Water Authority has implemented a year-round watering schedule that limits the use of drip irrigation systems and outdoor watering to three assigned days per week based on the property’s address. Additionally, there are restrictions on the time of day when watering is allowed, with no watering permitted between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. from May 1 to Aug. 31.
Other parts of southern Nevada, including Henderson and North Las Vegas, also have similar watering restrictions in place.
To ensure your Las Vegas landscape remains green and lush, your lawn must be able to withstand the city’s hot, arid climate. Bermudagrass is among the most popular grass types for this area, which is renowned for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in full sun. This warm-season grass, once established, can survive the sweltering summer heat and cold winters with minimal maintenance.
However, note that certain areas of Nevada, including the Las Vegas Valley, have prohibited the use of non-functional grass through legislation. Homeowners and businesses must replace ornamental turf with water-efficient landscaping or hardscaping.
Non-functional grass is defined as turf that serves no practical purpose or functionality, like grass in medians or large lawns that are infrequently used. The goal of this legislation is to conserve water and encourage sustainable landscaping practices in the area.
When it comes to landscape designs for front yards and backyards in the Nevada desert, choosing the right plants is crucial. From drought-tolerant trees to vibrant succulents, there are numerous options to enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space.
\n\n\n\nChoose plants that are already adapted to the local climate and soil, so you can save water, reduce maintenance, and enjoy a thriving landscape year-round. With so many desert landscaping plants available, there’s sure to be one that suits your style, budget, and preferences.
\n\n\n\nWhether you’re living in Las Vegas or another city in Nevada, you should start planning your desert landscape today. Reach out to a landscaping pro for help in creating a beautiful and sustainable outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"19 Best Desert Landscaping Plants for Nevada","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/1789c/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/107df/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.jpg 320w,\n/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/293e9/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.jpg 500w,\n/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/f2cbb/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.jpg 800w,\n/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/1789c/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.jpg 960w,\n/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/c26c2/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/1dd6e/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/67b76/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.webp 320w,\n/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/8df11/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.webp 500w,\n/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/98a65/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.webp 800w,\n/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/1dd6e/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.webp 960w,\n/static/0a68ca47ae2fdeccf628819e589c0573/3cc96/Parents-Yard-Reno-Nevada.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"19 Best Desert Landscaping Plants for Nevada","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the best desert landscaping plants for Nevada and know about their unique features that help them thrive in the desert."}}},{"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.
Let’s face it, your weekends are better spent cheering on your favorite team than maintaining your North Texas lawn. Whether you are an Aggie or a Longhorn, there are low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will cut down on your outdoor chores so you can get back to the “Lone Star Showdown.” Switching to low-maintenance landscaping means […]
\n","content":"\nLet’s face it, your weekends are better spent cheering on your favorite team than maintaining your North Texas lawn. Whether you are an Aggie or a Longhorn, there are low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will cut down on your outdoor chores so you can get back to the “Lone Star Showdown.”
\n\n\n\nSwitching to low-maintenance landscaping means less time, effort, water, weeding, mowing, and pests. In subtropical areas like Dallas, where summer temperatures can soar to well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, energy and water conservation is important.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennials-landscaping.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Acabashi / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe bright blooms you see as you’re strolling through your local store are annuals. These flowers are less expensive and look great, for now, lasting one growing season before dying in late fall. If bright blooms are your thing, consider switching out your annuals for drought-tolerant perennials.
\n\n\n\nPerennials have a shorter, more defined blooming season than annuals, but they survive the cold winters and bloom every year. They are more expensive upfront. However, they tolerate extreme weather and come in many varieties such as deer-resistant and shade-loving types for your urban Dallas yard.
\n\n\n\nIf you are ready for landscaping beauty on repeat, check out some of the best heat-tolerant perennials for Dallas:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The average cost of a perennial plant varies depending on the size and type of plant, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local store to purchase your own perennials, you can expect to spend between $10 to $100 per plant.
\n\n\n\n![\"purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/native-plants.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Hippopx
\n\n\n\nNative Texas plants are the most low-maintenance plants you can include in your landscaping project. They promote a healthy ecosystem and thrive in the North Texas heat while remaining cold-hardy enough to survive a surprise winter snow. Native plants are hands-off and resistant to local insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Dallas native plants to choose from. Take a look at some examples:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Like perennials, 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![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Garden-Bed-.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ronstik / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nMulch is an inexpensive and low-effort DIY job that will provide a big payoff for your Texas landscape. It is a loose material typically made of organic matter like compost, tree bark, and wood chips. Mulch helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from heat.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Inorganic mulches like rubber and gravel are more low-maintenance and durable but do not offer additional nutrients. It is important to note that organic mulches like wood chips must be replaced each year with a fresh layer.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of mulch are:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag. Rubber mulch is more durable and expensive, costing around $8 to $10 per 0.8-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\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backyard-Hardscaping-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bill Wilson / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nTexas summers are hot, and there’s nothing more you want to do than relax at your backyard barbecue with a refreshing frozen margarita. The fewer plants in your landscaping design, the less time you will spend maintaining your lawn and garden. Consider hardscaping your backyard to add sustainable visual interest while eliminating the need for weekly maintenance.
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are man-made features, including:
\n\n\n\nFor the most part, hardscapes are a set-it-and-forget-it choice for garden design. They don’t require watering, pruning, or mowing. In fact, they don’t require maintenance at all except for an annual cleaning. Hardscapes are an expensive upfront investment, but they increase home value and curb appeal, saving you time and money in the long run.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Be prepared to spend around $7,500 for a new deck, $4,000 for a patio, $850 for a fire pit, and $3,000 for a flagstone walkway.
\n\n\n\n![\"plants](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeremy Levine / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLike hardscaping, xeriscaping focuses on low-maintenance landscaping and water conservation. In the U.S., landscape irrigation makes up nearly one-third of all residential water use. Xeriscaping involves creating a beautiful home landscape that requires no watering except rainfall.
\n\n\n\nDallas native plants are a great water-wise option for xeriscaping your yard. They are naturally drought resistant and adapted to harsh Texas summers. Besides native plants, some basic steps for xeriscaping your yard include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional xeriscaping costs between $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on many factors like plant selection and the size of your yard. While upfront costs may seem high, you will be saving around $0.36 per square foot annually on water and maintenance costs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Groundcover.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: I.Sáček, senior / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nWho says your entire yard has to be covered in traditional grass for a thick, green appearance? Low-maintenance groundcover makes a great alternative to traditional turfgrass. Groundcover plants grow a few inches tall and spread quickly to fill horizontal space.
\n\n\n\nGroundcover can fill areas of your lawn to mimic “grass,” while their low-maintenance attitude means less work for you. These plants still require water and the occasional fertilizer, but selecting a native Texas groundcover will ensure your new “grass” is hardy, drought tolerant, and best of all, low maintenance.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular Dallas groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Dallas landscaping experts, Eco Blossom Nursery, groundcover plants cost around $5 to $50 each, depending on size.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Perfect Grass / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nChannel your inner Brady Bunch with artificial turf. Contrary to popular belief, this synthetic grass is eco-friendly, comes in a variety of colors and styles, and is essentially an outdoor carpet. Thanks to technological advancements, it is hard to tell fake grass from real grass in most cases.
\n\n\n\nArtificial grass is virtually maintenance-free. However, it is expensive to install and may render your soil unusable in the future.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional artificial grass installation costs between $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"plants](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Succulent-Garden.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nDallas natives love their Cowboys and Tex-Mex. If you would rather spend more time perfecting your brisket tacos and less time maintaining your yard, consider planting drought-resistant succulents like cacti or agaves.
\n\n\n\nSucculents love dry, arid climates and thrive in the Texas climate thanks to their thick leaves. They prefer to be left alone, so you can forget about watering your plants and let nature take over. Succulents come in a variety of shapes and sizes and work great in back and front yards.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular succulents that are great for Dallas yards:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of succulents:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The price depends on the size and type of succulent and ranges from $10 to $75 per plant.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch provides moisture retention and nutrients for your plants. Experts recommend laying new mulch on top of your existing mulch annually in the spring after the last frost.
Succulents thrive in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Typically, water your succulent plants once per week when it has not rained.
There are many types of artificial turf, including pet-friendly turf, that are specially designed for your furry family members to be stain and odor resistant and easy to clean.
Low-maintenance landscaping is the first step to reclaiming your weekends. Unfortunately, low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance, and you will still find yourself stuck outside in the blistering sun.
Instead of wasting your time on lawn maintenance, consider letting Wikilawn hook you up with a local landscaping company that can handle all of your lawn care needs so you can get back to Margarita Mile.
Main Image Credit: Rachel Kramer / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Dallas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1789c/Landscaping-Garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/107df/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/293e9/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/f2cbb/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 800w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1789c/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 960w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/c26c2/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1dd6e/Landscaping-Garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/67b76/Landscaping-Garden.webp 320w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/8df11/Landscaping-Garden.webp 500w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/98a65/Landscaping-Garden.webp 800w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1dd6e/Landscaping-Garden.webp 960w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/3cc96/Landscaping-Garden.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Dallas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Spend more time tending to your BBQ with these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Dallas, including the estimated cost of each."}}},{"node":{"id":"d30dfd89-7cdd-5d62-a619-9b342ae0cbed","slug":"helpful-tips-for-pet-proofing-your-austin-tx-landscape","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/helpful-tips-for-pet-proofing-your-austin-tx-landscape/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"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":"January 3rd, 2019","excerpt":"Dogs and cats may be our best animal friends, but they can wreak havoc on our landscaping. Home should be safe for your animals and free from potential threats, so pet-proofing your Austin, TX landscape is a must-do task. Your pets can’t protect themselves; you have to do it for them! Pets, most often […]
\n","content":"\nDogs and cats may be our best animal friends, but they can wreak havoc on our landscaping. Home should be safe for your animals and free from potential threats, so pet-proofing your Austin, TX landscape is a must-do task. Your pets can’t protect themselves; you have to do it for them!
Pets, most often dogs, like to go outside for playtime or to lay in the sun. Your landscaping practices may pose several threats to your pets as they try to enjoy their time. Things such as fertilizers, pesticides, mulch, and compost could be toxic if your animal tries to eat or lick it. Which is highly likely if you have a puppy because puppies are adventurous and will get into anything!
So, if you need to pet-proof your Austin, TX landscape, here are some tips!
\n\n\n\nYou might spend hours on your seasonal flower bed only for your dog to dig it up and eat the flowers. These things happen! Many common flowers can be poisonous to dogs. If you’re unsure, call your vet to confirm that your flower selections are dog safe.
A few common backyard flowers that are dangerous for dogs include:
\n\n\n\nPet owners have to worry about more than just flowers. Hundreds of common houseplants and garden plants are toxic for your animal. Here are the 10 most common toxic plants in Austin, TX.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a swimming pool or a pond as part of your landscape, you need to take some extra precautions. Yes, dogs can typically swim, but falling into a pond or a pool can be deadly for your pet.
Pet owners should teach their pets how to get out of their pools from the time they’re little in case they ever fall in accidentally. It could save their lives!
\n\n\n\nDo you have your trash can sitting on the side of your house awaiting trash pick-up day? Most of us do, but that can be hazardous to your dog. Make sure the trash cans are secured with appropriately fitting and locking lids.
Dogs are curious, and the smell of old food is appealing. He will happily take a bite of that old burger without realizing its soaked in old cleaning supplies.
\n\n\n\nInsecticides, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers may perform an important job for you, but they can be toxic for your pet. If you do decide to use them, keep your pet away from the lawn when it’s recently been treated. Dogs and cats should never walk on freshly sprayed lawns. Put your animal in another area for a few days.
Ideally, you wouldn’t treat the areas that your pet will spend his time. That prevents your pets from accidentally ingesting any of the chemicals. Dogs do sometimes decide to eat grass.
Most importantly, be sure all of these chemicals are locked up out of your pet’s reach. Put them in your shed or garage. A dog would happily take a drink of some chemicals spilled all over the floor.
\n\n\n\nIf your yard is fenced, that’s a huge bonus! Fences keep your pets safe and prevent them from running away. Puppies and dogs need plenty of exercise. A dog or little puppy can easily find a small gap or hole in your fence that you may not notice. So, it’s important for you to regularly check your fence to make sure it’s secure for your animals.
\n\n\n\nTall grass can be a haven for ticks and snakes to hide. While most snakes aren’t venomous, a few poisonous snakes do call Austin, TX home like the Western diamondback rattlesnake.
Make sure you mow your grass regularly and remove any branches that are laying around. Clear out debris often. Ticks can be harmful to your dogs! Plus, fleas love tall grass. Unlike other parts of the nation, Austin doesn’t have a specific flea season. Austin doesn’t have multiple days of below-freezing temperatures or extended dry conditions, so fleas can survive year-round. That means you need to pay attention to your pets to be sure they’re flea-free and cut your grass regularly.
\n\n\n\nIt would be nice if Fido understood walking in your new garden bed is a bad idea, but they have no concept of that. Owners have the responsibility of deciding what areas are off-limits by creating physical reminders.
You can do this by making walls, fences, or pieces of wood to create a makeshift fence around the areas you want your pet to stay away from. Another idea is planting tall, native grasses or bushes. Make sure the plants that you pick aren’t poisonous.
\n\n\n\nGrass will turn brown and die in the area that your dog uses the bathroom. Rather than having random spots throughout your entire lawn, pick a spot where you want your dog to do his business.
\n\n\n\nKeep the grass in that area well watered and longer than the other parts of your yard because it helps dilute the urine and hide the brown spots. Some smart pet owners create a bathroom area hidden behind a fence or a wall so guests don’t notice.
You could also hardscape the area where your dog does his business. Hardscaping would make it easier for you to scoop up feces and spray urine away with a hose!
\n\n\n\nPet owners have the responsibility of keeping their animals safe and sound in their environments. Dogs and some cats are adventurous outside, so you have to pay special attention to how you’ll handle your landscape and yard.
The most important thing is to avoid anything that could be toxic to your animal. That means be sure that your flowers and plants aren’t toxic to animals. If you aren’t sure, talk to your vet. Keep all of the chemicals out of their reach, stored inside a shed or garage ideally.
Last, always watch for dangers. That could be a loose fence board or a pond that you think is beautiful. Landscaping and pets can mix harmoniously with a little planning on your end.
\n\n\n\nLooking for more lawn care tips? Visit our Austin lawn care page for more information about everything lawn-related.
\n","title":"Helpful Tips for Pet-Proofing Your Austin, TX Landscape","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5003663003663004,"src":"/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/1789c/dog-in-the-yard.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/107df/dog-in-the-yard.jpg 320w,\n/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/293e9/dog-in-the-yard.jpg 500w,\n/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/f2cbb/dog-in-the-yard.jpg 800w,\n/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/1789c/dog-in-the-yard.jpg 960w,\n/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/d2f4e/dog-in-the-yard.jpg 2048w","srcWebp":"/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/1dd6e/dog-in-the-yard.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/67b76/dog-in-the-yard.webp 320w,\n/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/8df11/dog-in-the-yard.webp 500w,\n/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/98a65/dog-in-the-yard.webp 800w,\n/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/1dd6e/dog-in-the-yard.webp 960w,\n/static/3ba146970169d2ad070517f44877b5ad/8952c/dog-in-the-yard.webp 2048w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Helpful Tips for Pet-Proofing Your Austin, TX Landscape | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"00a73f22-caac-574d-99c2-2a008dc381bb","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas","path":"/lawn-care/ca/los-angeles/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"6ef486ca-ccd1-5849-a339-3c49569b40f6","name":"Los Angeles","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/los-angeles/"}],"date":"April 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Los Angeles’ warm, sunny climate is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, but it can make yard care a challenge. Thankfully, there are many low-maintenance landscaping ideas that can help you create a beautiful yard in LA that requires minimal upkeep. Let’s see how you can make your lawn care a little easier. In this article: […]
\n","content":"\nLos Angeles’ warm, sunny climate is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, but it can make yard care a challenge. Thankfully, there are many low-maintenance landscaping ideas that can help you create a beautiful yard in LA that requires minimal upkeep. Let’s see how you can make your lawn care a little easier.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/47649566962_1092e76082_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you want beautiful flowers that need little care, consider native plants. These plants grow naturally in Los Angeles, which means they are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. There are many kinds of native plants out there, so make sure you choose the ones that fit your needs and preferences.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of choosing native plants:
\n\n\n\nExamples of the best Los Angeles native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of adding native plants to your yard depends on the plant’s type and size. Roughly, you can expect to pay $1,000 to $3,000 for a flower bed and $25 to $60 per shrub. Large shrubs can cost as much as $350. Trees typically cost $150 to $1,850 per tree but can cost as much as $3,335.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Epilobium_canum_Everetts_Choice_kz3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWhat’s the difference between annual and perennial plants? Annuals live for one growing season, whereas perennials come back year after year with proper care. They don’t need to be replaced every year and can even last for decades.
\n\n\n\nIf you want the lowest-maintenance perennial, get a shrub or a tree. You can also plant smaller perennials, but they usually need more care.
\n\n\n\nBut keep in mind that perennials tend to take longer to bloom and have shorter blooming seasons than annuals. When they’re in bloom, their blossoms are usually less vibrant. They also tend to be more expensive. So if you’ve got a bit of time for yard care or want to hire a lawn care pro, a good option is to get a mix of perennials and annuals.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of adding perennial plants:
\n\n\n\nExamples of perennial plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Once again, the cost of adding perennial Los Angeles plants to your lawn will depend on various factors. Some of these factors include the plant type and size, and whether you plant them yourself or hire a pro.
\n\n\n\nBut here are some rough figures. If you plant them yourself, your plants should cost around $2.50 to $60 per plant. However, they can cost over $100, depending on their size and type. Shrubs usually cost between $25 and $60 per shrub, but large shrubs can cost as much as $350. Trees are more expensive. They typically cost between $150 and $1,850 per tree but can cost as much as $3,335.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Aeonium_korneliuslemsii_Crassulaceae_leaves.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Magnus Manske / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nSucculents are low-maintenance plants that are popular in Southern California and beyond. They do well in the warmest parts of Los Angeles. Planting succulents in your garden save money on water bills and helps conserve water.
\n\n\n\nSome succulents only thrive in climates that never reach low temperatures.Minimum temperatures in Los Angeles County range between 0 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Every Los Angeles area has a different hardiness zone, which is the minimum temperature it reaches each year. Check your area’s minimum temperature here.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of succulents:
\n\n\n\nExamples of succulents:
\n\n\n\n| Type of Succulent | Minimum Temperature |
| Supervivum | -30 degrees Fahrenheit and above |
| Aeonium | 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Coastal prickly pear (native) | 25 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit |
| The jade plant | 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit |
Estimated cost: There are many kinds of succulents out there. Depending on the type and size, their prices usually range from $5 to $100 per plant.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pexels-tara-winstead-7663973-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nPotted plants are a versatile option that can complete your landscaping project. You can pick from various designs and place them anywhere you want. Moreover, they need less maintenance than in-ground plants, so they’re an easy solution to add an elegant touch to your garden.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of potted plants:
\n\n\n\nWhich plants can you pot? You can grow most plants in a pot as long as you care for them properly. Make sure that you choose the right pot and soil and that you learn about your plants’ needs.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: As mentioned above, your budget for your new plants depends on a number of factors. But to give you some ballpark figures, the typical cost of plants is $2.50 to $60. However, they can cost up to $190, depending on their type and size. If you want a decorative pot, their prices usually range between $4 and $150.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8470969805_38047bb4d6_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Tom Britt / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMulching is excellent at conserving water and reducing weeds. It’s one of the easiest, cheapest ways to keep your garden healthy and hydrated.
\n\n\n\nYou can choose between organic mulch and inorganic mulch. Organic mulch breaks down over time, adding nutrients to the soil. You’ll need to replace it every year. On the other hand, inorganic mulch doesn’t add any nutrients to the soil. However, it can last for several years without needing to be replaced, making it a low-maintenance option.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nExamples of organic mulch:
\n\n\n\nExamples of inorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Mulching typically costs around $85 per cubic yard.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/49950590552_df6d1a4836_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Patrick Alexander / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nJust like plants, there are grass types that thrive in the soil and climate of Los Angeles. Consider selecting a low-maintenance grass type to complement your low-maintenance plants. This can not only save you time and effort in lawn care but also money on water.
\n\n\n\nThe advantages of low-maintenance grass types are obvious:
\n\n\n\nTwo examples of low-maintenance grass types include:
\n\n\n\nOne more option is sand dune sedge, but take note that this grass grows in clumps and won’t create a uniform lawn appearance.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional grass removal typically costs $1.50 per square foot. Professional lawn seeding typically costs between $0.10 and $0.19 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Sedum_lineare_variegatum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ghislain118 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you want to go a step further, you can choose a low-maintenance ground cover instead of traditional turfgrass. Ground cover plants are short plants that can create the appearance of a dense lawn without needing as much maintenance.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of choosing ground cover over turfgrasses include:
\n\n\n\nThese ground cover plants should do well in your Los Angeles lawn:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, the cost of ground covers ranges from $10 to $25 per square foot without installation.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscape_garden_2014_-_2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Steakley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping is a landscaping technique that focuses on reducing water usage. So if you want a low-maintenance garden that you won’t need to water much, xeriscaping is a great option for you.
\n\n\n\nThe advantages of xeriscaping include:
\n\n\n\nYou don’t have to xeriscape your entire lawn at once. You can start by taking small but impactful steps. As time goes on, you can gradually incorporate more xeriscaping techniques into your lawn.
\n\n\n\nHere’s how you can start xeriscaping today:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The average cost of xeriscaping ranges between $5 and $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/8145471727_f0843aa441_c-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHardscaping is any non-living element on your lawn, whether it be rocks, furniture, or a patio. By adding a few hardscapes to your landscape design, you can make it more functional and appealing while also making it easier to take care of.
\n\n\n\nThere are many features you can add to your yard to create a low-maintenance, efficient outdoor living space. Some hardscapes, like fences and rock gardens, can even be made into a fun DIY project if you have the skills, tools, and time. If not, you can consider hiring one of WikiLawn’s landscaping pros.
\n\n\n\nThe advantages of hardscaping include:
\n\n\n\nExamples of common hardscapes include:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: There are many types of hardscaping projects, and their costs vary. Roughly, a new patio costs $2,200 to $6,500; a new deck costs $3,900 to $10,500; a new fire pit costs $250 to $2,200; a new pergola costs $2,100 to $6,000; a water feature installation can cost $1,100 to $7,500; river rocks cost $60 to $170 per ton; and stone paver projects cost between $3 and $30 per square foot, depending on the type of stone.
\n\n\n\nAs you can see, there are various things homeowners can do to make lawn care easier. But even adding a few native, drought-tolerant plants can go a long way. Just make sure you do your research because plants all have advantages and drawbacks. Some plants are also toxic, so it’s important to be aware of any potential hazards before planting.
\n\n\n\nBut let’s face it: even a low-maintenance lawn requires some level of upkeep. If you’d prefer to enjoy more of your free time without worrying about lawn care, consider hiring one of WikiLawn’s Los Angeles lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Paolo Gamba / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"9 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Los Angeles","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4962593516209477,"src":"/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/1789c/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/107df/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/293e9/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/f2cbb/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/1789c/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/c26c2/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/1dd6e/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/67b76/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.webp 320w,\n/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/8df11/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.webp 500w,\n/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/98a65/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.webp 800w,\n/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/1dd6e/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.webp 960w,\n/static/b383ba5b29ac2ef952e870945293d947/3cc96/18261266660_eccc33d429_k-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Los Angeles | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"How can you make your lawn care easier? Read on for 8 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Los Angeles."}}},{"node":{"id":"4984eb1f-13e3-56d1-8213-a81c782eac31","slug":"worst-weeds-austin","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/worst-weeds-austin/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nicki DeStasi is a writer, author, and teacher who grew up in western Massachusetts and currently resides in the Austin area. She enjoys flower and vegetable gardening, reading, cooking, listening to true-crime podcasts, and spending time with her husband, two children, dog, and cat.","name":"Nicki DeStasi","id":"ffbf62e2-d627-5a5f-a041-4eaa9ac66924","path":"/author/nicki-destasi/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9846092d7afb2db8d0a4daa2454074f0?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 18th, 2019","excerpt":"It’s staggering how quickly Austin has grown thanks to its fabulous music, delicious food trucks, and booming tech industry. Unfortunately, the weeds grow just as fast as the population. No matter how hard you work to keep weeds at bay, they find a way to wreak havoc on your lawn. Here, we’ll help you identify, […]
\n","content":"\nIt’s staggering how quickly Austin has grown thanks to its fabulous music, delicious food trucks, and booming tech industry. Unfortunately, the weeds grow just as fast as the population. No matter how hard you work to keep weeds at bay, they find a way to wreak havoc on your lawn. Here, we’ll help you identify, prevent, and remove the 12 worst weeds in your Austin lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll discover:
\n\n\n\nLike any villain, weeds exploit weaknesses. If your lawn has a problem, they’ll find it and take advantage of it. Weeds are typically a symptom of an underlying issue, like thinning turf, soil compaction, or improper pH levels. Routine maintenance, like mowing, fertilizing, and watering, will keep your lawn healthy and prevent weeds from taking root.
\n\n\n\nThere are many reasons weeds are bad for your Austin lawn, including:
\n\n\n\nThere are two effective weed control methods: hand pulling and chemical treatments. Hand pulling is the safest removal method, but it isn’t always the best. Before selecting your removal method, identify the weeds you are dealing with to ensure the most effective removal.
\n\n\n\nExperts agree hand weeding is just as necessary as chemical removal methods. Aim to weed your yard and garden weekly or bi-weekly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
\n\n\n\nWhether your yard is weed-free or overrun with problems, you’ll want to watch for several types of weeds. Some are stealthy, and some are bold, but these are the 12 worst weeds in your Austin lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Annual-Sow-Thistle-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnnual sow thistle grows in almost every state, anywhere, including roadsides, lawns, and meadows. The plant can reach up to 4 feet tall and blooms in late spring and fall. Annual sow thistle harbors pests and looks like a cousin of dandelions.
\n\n\n\nAnnual sow thistle is aggressive and has a shallow taproot that allows for easy hand removal. Several pre and post-emergent herbicides are also effective. Specimens have hairless, blue-green, lobed leaves attached to thick, hollow stems that produce milky sap. The flowers are bright yellow and urn-shaped, maturing into a puffy seed head similar to a dandelion.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Annual
\n\n\n\nType: Broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Winter; summer
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained, sand, loam, clay, or chalk
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling, pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chickweed-Stellaria-Media.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jean and Fred Hort / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nChickweed seeds remain viable for 10 years, and each plant has around 25,000 seeds, making it incredibly difficult to eradicate. This upright plant creates a thick mat of small, smooth, oval-shaped leaves and clusters of tiny white flowers.
\n\n\n\nChickweed sprouts in late summer and fall and grows through winter. It thrives in nitrogen-rich soils and in shady areas under trees, close to homes, or along garden walls. Thankfully, these weeds respond well to hand pulling, and if you’re hungry, you can eat them in a salad or pesto. Just be sure to wash it first.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Annual
\n\n\n\nType: Broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Winter
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; shaded, moist areas
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling, broadleaf herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/25140451756_2a557dd4c7_c-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nDallisgrass started off as a forage plant for livestock in the 1800s. Homeowners often confuse dallisgrass with crabgrass. This invasive nuisance forms clumps using deep rhizomes. Specimens are low-growing and coarsely textured with light green leaves and long seed heads atop tall stalks.
\n\n\n\nDallisgrass grows faster than turfgrass, and the longer it grows, the harder it is to control. It is one of the more common and problematic weeds in the Southern and Southeastern United States.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Perennial
\n\n\n\nType: Grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; moist sand or clay
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Weed fork, pre-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/800px-Taraxacum_officinale_001.jpg\")
Photo Credit: H. Zell / Wikimedia Common / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDandelion is one of the most recognizable weeds in the world. The long, deeply lobed leaves form a rosette. Its rounded yellow flowers turn into fluffy puff balls that carry seeds on the wind, infesting your lawn.
\n\n\n\nHand pulling or dandelion forks work well for removal. After you rip them from your lawn, you can clean them off and eat them in everything from cookies to ice cream. Dandelion tea is also popular. Medicinally, they help with several ailments, including:
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Perennial
\n\n\n\nType: Broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; full sun
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling, dandelion ford, post-emergent broadleaf herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Goosegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHomeowners often confuse goosegrass, also known as wiregrass, with smooth crabgrass. Specimens have leaf sheaths that end in long, thin, green, slightly hairy leaves. The seed heads comprise one to six-inch long spikes growing in a row to resemble a zipper.
\n\n\n\nGoosegrass has fibrous roots and prefers compacted soil. One plant produces up to 50,000 seeds and is difficult to eliminate. They are resistant to many pre and post-emergent herbicides. Good aeration and lawn maintenance practices are the best control methods.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Annual
\n\n\n\nType: Grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; prefer compacted soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; used medicinally
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling, pre-emergent herbicide, non-selective post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Miltos Gikas / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHenbit creeps into lawns in the early spring and grows until summer when it goes dormant. You can identify specimens from their pale purple and red blooms that grow in dense whorls. Leaves are egg-shaped, blunt, and coarsely toothed.
\n\n\n\nHenbit is a member of the mint family and is popular with bees and hummingbirds. The leaves, flowers, and square stems are edible with a slightly sweet and peppery flavor, sometimes compared to celery.
\n\n\n\nHenbit has shallow, fibrous roots and grows upright. Choose a dense, warm-season grass and maintain it regularly. It’s important to avoid overwatering, which encourages henbit growth and seed germination.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Annual
\n\n\n\nType: Broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling, pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeevan Jose, Kerala, India / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nOften labeled as the world’s worst weed, nutsedge is also called nutgrass and comes in yellow and purple varieties. Nutsedge resembles grass but grows twice as fast. You’ll notice the long, thin, light green (yellow) or dark green (purple) leaves grow taller than the rest of your lawn shortly after a mow. Aeration and proper watering techniques help control nutsedge.
\n\n\n\nLike goosegrass, nutsedge has spiked seed heads. It grows via tubers and rhizomes, six to 12 inches deep. Hand-pulling nutsedge often leaves the tubers, creating a new plant in its place. Apply several applications of chemical herbicide to fend off nutsedge.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Perennial
\n\n\n\nType: Sedge
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; full sun and wet soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible with medicinal uses.
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling, weed fork, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Júlio Reis / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nPurslane, or hogweed, is a prostrate-growing plant with shiny, oblong leaves. It is fast-growing with purple-red stems and produces small, five-petaled, yellow flowers. Tiny black seeds form inside egg-shaped pods and are viable for up to 40 years. Purslane responds well to hand removal.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Annual
\n\n\n\nType: Broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 3-12
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; full sun; prefers well-drained, moist sand or loam
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nQuackgrass is quick-growing and resembles crabgrass. It establishes via rhizomes. Instead of spikes, the seed heads resemble wheat. Also known as common couch, quackgrass has blue-green leaves and a distinctive auricle, a small appendage that clasps around the stem.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Perennial
\n\n\n\nType: Grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; sand, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible with medicinal uses
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rescuegrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nRescuegrass, or prairie grass, grows in late spring, summer, and fall in dense concentrations of sword-like, green leaves. Specimens crowd native plants, starving them of beneficial nutrients. The hairy leaf sheaths are a lighter green than the rest of the leaf, and the yellow seed heads have wheat-like, flattened spikelets. Remove rescuegrass by hand, but wear gloves because it is toxic to some people.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Annual
\n\n\n\nType: Grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Cool-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Sand or loam
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; skin irritant
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand removal, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Smooth-Crabgrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThere are around 35 types of crabgrass, but the one that affects Austin homeowners the most is smooth crabgrass. It is low-growing and has dull green leaves. Its stems turn reddish-purple with age. Smooth crabgrass tolerates mowing and still produces seed at ½ inch in height.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Annual
\n\n\n\nType: Grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: All
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Weed fork, pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Spotted-Spurge-Trifolium-Repens.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nFind spotted spurge on roadsides, sidewalk cracks, gardens, and lawns in late May through summer. Control its growth with mulch or hand-pull pesky specimens. Spotted spurge is a prostrate-growing groundcover with small, dark green, oval leaves with a dark red to purple spot in the middle.
\n\n\n\nThe stems are pink to dark red and excrete a milky sap when broken or cut. Spotted spurge blooms tiny white or pink flowers, forming inconspicuous clusters. The leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits are all slightly hairy.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Annual
\n\n\n\nType: Broadleaf
\n\n\n\nUSDA Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nGrowing Season: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nGrowing Conditions: Adaptable; full sun
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; skin irritant; toxic to sheep
\n\n\n\nRemoval Methods: Hand pulling, pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\nStop weeds from taking root with these helpful tips:
● Choose the right grass type: certain grass types, like bermudagrass, are aggressive and naturally crowd out weeds.
● Keep a healthy lawn: mow, water, and fertilize according to your grass cultivar; a healthy lawn is more prepared to fend off invasive weeds.
● Apply pre-emergent herbicide: these chemicals prevent weeds from germinating
● Mulch: prevents weeds and aids in soil moisture retention
● Pull by hand: remove weeds as soon as possible
Follower these universal steps to maximize your lawn’s health:
● Mow at the right time: Mid-morning, about 9 a.m., or mid-afternoon, about 5 p.m.
● Leave grass clippings: Grass clippings provide essential nutrients for your lawn
● Keep mower blades sharp: Dull blades rip and tear your grass, causing a brown grass tip and a ragged-looking lawn
In Austin, plant grass seed in March or April to avoid late-season frost and give the seed enough time to germinate before the summer.
One of the best ways to keep weeds out of your lawn is to practice good lawn maintenance. Lawn care is a lot of work, but you don’t have to do it alone. Let Wikilawn connect you with an Austin lawn care professional, so you can spend more time enjoying your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Henbit / KENPEI / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"12 Worst Weeds in Austin, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.345291479820628,"src":"/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/1789c/Henbit.jpg","srcSet":"/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/107df/Henbit.jpg 320w,\n/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/293e9/Henbit.jpg 500w,\n/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/f2cbb/Henbit.jpg 800w,\n/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/1789c/Henbit.jpg 960w,\n/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/c26c2/Henbit.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/1dd6e/Henbit.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/67b76/Henbit.webp 320w,\n/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/8df11/Henbit.webp 500w,\n/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/98a65/Henbit.webp 800w,\n/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/1dd6e/Henbit.webp 960w,\n/static/96fbecdbce255fbc0bfa17ba9ce389a4/3cc96/Henbit.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"12 Worst Weeds in Austin, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the 12 worst weeds plaguing Austin, TX. Learn how to identify and combat these invasive plants in our comprehensive guide."}}},{"node":{"id":"72277407-1167-55d2-a463-934032653d9f","slug":"best-native-plants-columia-sc","path":"/lawn-care/sc/columbia/best-native-plants-columia-sc/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Farah Nauman is a freelance writer and an accountant based in Pakistan. She spends most of her time combating the South Asian heat and being a mom to her three fluffy cats and a dozen little Aloe Veras in her house.","name":"Farah Nauman","id":"26059a96-5dc7-50a2-8fe4-f35b865ab4a8","path":"/author/farah-nauman/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6ec8e652d318d98583d29f520928b219?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"fdf0bc73-027b-53cd-9759-0a8e363ba959","name":"Columbia","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/columbia/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"1ea697f8-5b42-5431-b368-7296faebead2","name":"South Carolina","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Our balmy climate and Southern charm are what defines the Carolinas. And although it’s pretty hot for a good part of the year, Columbia has an abundance of ecoregions that support a wide array of plants. The heat may discourage many homeowners from building a nice, big garden, but that won’t be a problem if […]
\n","content":"\nOur balmy climate and Southern charm are what defines the Carolinas. And although it’s pretty hot for a good part of the year, Columbia has an abundance of ecoregions that support a wide array of plants.
\n\n\n\nThe heat may discourage many homeowners from building a nice, big garden, but that won’t be a problem if you plant natives that have adapted to Columbia’s hot weather. To help you with that, we put together a list of nine of the best native plants for Columbia to help you brighten up that dull yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nA native plant is a species that has lived, reproduced, and adapted naturally in a specific region or area for hundreds or even thousands of years. Their presence then becomes an integral part of that area’s ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nThese natives adapt perfectly and completely to the region’s soil conditions, climate, temperature, light exposure, and other factors of the environment until they become part of it. That makes them “indigenous”.
\n\n\n\nWant a healthy, long-lasting, and beautiful yard? Native plants are the way to go. There are many advantages of planting natives in your landscape, including:
\n\n\n\nHere is a collection of the best natives you can bring into your Columbia lawn and enjoy a low-maintenance landscape.
\n\n\n\n![\"Carolina](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Carolina-Phlox.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum from Small Dole, England / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe strongest Southeastern U.S. native plant, Carolina phlox is a herbaceous flowering plant that boasts broadly cylindrical clusters of white, pink, or lavender flowers. They bloom from late spring to mid-summer and continue intermittently until the first few touches of frost.
\n\n\n\nCarolina phlox flowers sit atop red-streaked, slender stems with oval, leathery leaves that bear the perfect bright-green color. Clusters of these nectar-rich flowers attract bees, hummingbirds, and a wide variety of butterflies to your garden. Fresh, picture-perfect Carolina phlox flowers make excellent fresh-cut flowers too!
\n\n\n\nThis native plant self-sows but won’t get aggressive. It works great in perennial borders, home gardens, and city gardens.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, but capable of tolerating shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Acidic or neutral clay, loamy, sandy soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, tolerant of dry conditions
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5a – 9b
\n\n\n\n![\"Black](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Cohosh.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlso known as black bugbane, the black cohosh plant is native to most of eastern North America. It is a woody perennial that thrives in shady forest edges and grows into tall flower spikes bearing pom-pom-like flowers. This native plant strikes with its arching wands of white flowers all summer long and has finely divided, deep green foliage that compliments the flowers well.
\n\n\n\nThe fluffy spikes grow into seed pods and make a great addition for shade gardens. Black cohosh prefers moist, rich soil with organic matter and thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it one of the easiest, low-maintenance plants for a Columbia lawn.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 5 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Slightly acidic and rich loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3a – 8b
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oakleaf-Hydrangea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: normanack / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a colorful native shrub that will fill your garden with shades of green, white, pink, and burgundy all around the year. Oakleaf hydrangea develops into a large woody shrub and has tiny flowers that form clusters at each branch end. It produces white blooms that arrange themselves in showy, pyramidal clusters.
\n\n\n\nBelow the flowers are large dark green leaves that add to the plant’s grandeur. The blooms give a honey-like scent, attracting tons of bees to your yard.
\n\n\n\nIt prefers well-drained and organically rich soils with medium moisture content and does well with full sun to partial shade. Oakleaf hydrangea is a long-living perennial that blooms from mid-summer to early summer. As summer progresses the white bracts turn pink and make beautiful dried flower arrangements.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining soil with high organic matter
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5a – 9b
\n\n\n\n![\"Crested](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crested-Iris.jpg\")
Photo Credit: OakleyOriginals / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis Columbia native species is a woodland perennial that spreads by underground rhizomes and creates impressive clumps. It grows well in dappled shades and produces delicate lavender and white flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees.
\n\n\n\nThe crested iris sprouts up to only 16 inches in height, at most. You can use this native flowering perennial as a ground cover in perennial borders or shady areas of rock gardens.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 16 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining and moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3a – 8b
\n\n\n\n![\"Goldenrod\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Goldenrod.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson from North Palm Beach, Florida, Planet Earth! / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSolidago is a herbaceous perennial from the aster family and produces bright yellow, small flowers in dense clusters. These clusters sit stop tall stems and keep your garden yellow from July through September. Goldenrod is vastly used for medicinal purposes and produces abundant nectar for butterflies, wasps, bees, and seeds for birds.
\n\n\n\nGoldenrod also neutralizes quickly so you might want to divide them to control the spread. This flowering native plant is also resistant to deer so you won’t have to worry about a ruined yard.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full, bright sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Will survive in dry soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 2a – 8b
\n\n\n\n![\"Deciduous](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Deciduous-Azalea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: denisbin / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis plant has over 13 deciduous species that are native to the U.S., one being exclusively found in South Carolina. The Azaleas bloom from early spring till mid-summer and spread white, pink, orange, or red, and sweet fragranced flowers.
\n\n\n\nAs the name implies, deciduous azaleas have lots of leaves that change color as the temperature drops. You will have a variety of colors throughout the year in your garden from early spring to late autumn days.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 15 feet tall, depending on the species
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Shade with partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium once established
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7a – 9b, depending on the species
\n\n\n\n![\"Devilwood](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Devilwood-Osmanthus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCartrema americana, or the Ostmanthus americanus, is a shrub that may sometimes develop into a small tree, 13 to 23 feet tall. Devilwood bears small, white, and strongly fragranced flowers early in the spring. And when the plant is mature, it produces globose fruits with dark blue drupes that contain a single seed. Their sweet smell attracts songbirds, bees, and pollinators.
\n\n\n\nThe evergreen devilwood shrub lasts year round with its small, urn-shaped white flowers maturing into dark blue drupes in the fall. The bark is finely scaly and gray-brown while the leaves have a rusty-colored underside and wavy margins. It’s easy to grow too, devilwood tolerates a range of light, wind, and soil conditions.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub or tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: 15 to 20 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6a – 9b
\n\n\n\n![\"Fraser](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fraser-Magnolia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Richtid / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree is also referred to as mountain magnolia, mountain-oread, or the ear leaf cucumbertree. Fraser magnolia can grow quite tall, up to 40 feet, when fully mature and its snowy white flowers give off a sweet, pleasant fragrance.
\n\n\n\nThis native plant blooms in late spring and early summer and typically contains just one or two seeds. You can spot a magnolia tree from afar with its large leaves, an open crown of spreading branches, and huge flowers. Its long leaves turn from green to yellow and then brown in the fall while the flowers serve as a food source for the wildlife at every stage.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 40 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist and well-draining soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6a – 9b
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Donald Lee Pardue / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis native shrub will stand out in your Columbia yard with its distinctive yellow-green fall foliage and clusters of striking, glossy, purple fruit. These bright purple berries ripe late in June or July and make a favored food source for bobwhite and other berry-eating native birds.
\n\n\n\nThe arching branches create a fountain-like shape, giving your landscape a unique edge. During spring, American beautyberry also produce balls of small pink flowers at each leaf node.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun and partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8a – 10b
\n\n\n\n![\"Palmetto](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Palmetto-Palm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSouth Carolina’s state tree, the Palmetto palm is a tall native tree that is a great option for you if you want some shade in your Columbia landscape. It has blue-green, fan-shaped leaves that offer a great nesting space for migrating birds and provide shade.
\n\n\n\nThe best thing about palmetto palm trees is that you don’t have to worry about them freezing in the South Carolina cold. It’s a low-maintenance plant that blooms around June and produces nectar for honeybees.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Palm
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 100 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8a – 11b
\n\n\n\n![\"Foamflower\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Foamflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Evan M. Raskin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTiarella cordifolia is a native perennial that is found all through Eastern North America and the East Coast of the United States. It’s also referred to as heart-leaved foamflower because of its unique, attractive foliage. It produces about 8-inch stalks and develops white, feathery flowers.
\n\n\n\nThis plant prefers shade and will thrive on a lawn that gets dappled sunlight. It blooms early in the spring and continues till mid-spring before the flowers start fading. However, the foliage is evergreen and creates a pleasing visual.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering plant
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8 to 16 inches
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3a – 8b
\n\n\n\nLandscaping with native plants doesn’t automatically make it easier to maintain your Columbia landscape, you need to pick the right natives that go well with the soil, light, and wind exposure in your area.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, when choosing native plants for your garden you need to take the plant’s USDA Hardiness Zone range. This range will help you determine and narrow down the right plants for your yard. Columbia Hardiness Zone is 7a to 8b.
\n\n\n\nWhen planning your Columbia garden, aim to create a healthy ecosystem that benefits your plants, the winged visitors, small mammals, and the environment. Water, soil, wind, moisture, and the overall climate should sync with your plants. For more information, you can check South Carolina Native Plant Society.
\n\n\n\nNative species shouldn’t be hard to spot around your neighborhood. Better yet, you may find some natives already sprouting up in your yard. Don’t pull them out if you see them, as it will disturb the natural habitat. Instead, try to build your lawn around them.
\n\n\n\nYou can also buy from the local selection of natives at nurseries such as Humble Roots Nursery, Native Plants Garden Center, and Alex’s Nursery, or order from Carolina native nursery.
\n\n\n\nAnd when you’ve chosen and brought home your new native plants, plan the landscape around them and spruce up other parts of your garden to create a final look. Take a look at Wikilawn’s detailed guide on the best grass types for Columbia to see what grass bed should be planted with your natives. If you need help with setting up or regular maintenance of your Columbia lawn, hire one of our pros who will keep your yard and native plants happy.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for Columbia, SC","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.25,"src":"/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/1789c/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/107df/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 320w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/293e9/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 500w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/f2cbb/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 800w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/1789c/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 960w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/c26c2/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/1dd6e/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/67b76/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 320w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/8df11/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 500w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/98a65/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 800w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/1dd6e/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 960w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/3cc96/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for Columbia, South Carolina","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Ready to transform your landscape into an effortless native garden bursting with colors? Take a look at these native plants for Columbia, South Carolina."}}},{"node":{"id":"080b57bb-a573-55f1-975f-6e90d5bf61aa","slug":"how-to-grow-grass-in-shade","path":"/lawn-care/how-to-grow-grass-in-shade/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"October 30th, 2019","excerpt":"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.
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