![\"American](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Boneset.jpg\")
Want a garden that is both beautiful and low-maintenance? Try these 10 great perennials for your North Carolina landscape, which are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive in our temperate climate and its four distinct seasons. In this article: 1. American Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) Photo Credit: Kevin Kenny / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0 […]
\n","content":"\nWant a garden that is both beautiful and low-maintenance? Try these 10 great perennials for your North Carolina landscape, which are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive in our temperate climate and its four distinct seasons.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Kevin Kenny / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmerican boneset distinguishes itself by the small white flowers it sprouts between late summer and early fall. These flowers provide pollen and nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Once pollinated, they sprout seeds that attract songbirds.
\n\n\n\nAnother cool fact: The American Boneset, which was awarded the 2003 NC Wildflower of the Year, was historically used as a medicine for the flu, fevers, and colds.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, sand, high organic matter
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Pleasant floral scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer to early fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Frequent standing water
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 6 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe bright yellow black-eyed Susan is popular due to its long bloom time, giving a garden bed a long-lasting splash of color. Bees and butterflies use it as a source of both nectar and pollen, and songbirds eat their seeds when they’re ripe.
\n\n\n\nThe black-eyed Susan reseeds readily, but other plants keep it in check. It adapts to numerous soils, making it easy to plant in North Carolina.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, sand, loam, acidic, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring, summer, early autumn
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium. It has moderate drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Can self-seed freely. Black-eyed Susan can become aggressive if given too perfect an environment and insufficient competition.
\n\n\n\n![\"Cardinal](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cardinal-Flower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: linnaeus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCardinal flower sets itself apart with its brilliant red flowers, a nod to the red robes worn by Roman Catholic cardinals. Cardinal flowers are generally low-maintenance. However, they require frequent watering to maintain the moist soil they prefer. Some afternoon shade will shield them from the heat and prevent them from drying out.
\n\n\n\nWhile historically used for medicine, all parts of the plant are poisonous, so it’s not the best choice for parents or pet owners. The cardinal flower was selected as the 1982, 1983, and 2001 NC Wildflower of the Year.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sand, loam, clay, limestone-based
\n\n\n\nBloom time: July to October
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1-6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low.
\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\nFoamflower can get up to a foot tall, making it a good ground cover. In spring, spiked flowers bloom, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These flowers range from cream-colored to light pink.
\n\n\n\nIn early summer, black fruits bloom, which can be dried. Foamflower was named the 1986 NC Wildflower of the Year.
\n\n\n\nSun: Part to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, hummus-rich, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 5 to 12 inches
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-Phlox.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Keith Pomakis / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGarden phlox is a perennial growing in woodlands, thickets, gardens, prairies, and forests. In summer, dome-shaped pink, purple, or white flowers sprout, and the entire plant blooms in the fall. It attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
\n\n\n\nHowever, garden phlox has disease and pest problems. It’s vulnerable to powdery mildew and root rot and attracts spider mites in hot and dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, high organic matter, good drainage, moist
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Mid-summer to mid-fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water in dry summers. Avoid overhead watering.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 4 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium
\n\n\n\n![\"Indian](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Pink.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mark Levisay / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nClassified as a NC threatened species, Indian Pink stands out with its red and yellow flowers that bloom in spring. These tubular flowers see hummingbirds as their main visitor. Its fruits develop after the flowers, which provide a food source for songbirds.
\n\n\n\nIndian Pink is poisonous to humans, deer, and rabbits. It usually grows in moist woods and along wooded stream banks.
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late Spring to Summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1-2 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"New](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Cosmonaut / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5 CA
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe fabulously showy New England aster grows in moist meadows, prairies, low valleys, and stream banks. It sprouts large, purple flowers with yellow centers in late summer and early fall. These flowers attract wildlife like bees and butterflies while also making great cut flowers for arrangements.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, high organic matter, good drainage, moist, occasionally dry
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late Summer and Fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water weekly or when the topmost layer of soil dries out
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 7 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PumpkinSky / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurple coneflowers are popular pollinator plants. They bloom pink-purple flowers with spiky cone-shaped centers. Bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies visit them in the growing season, and songbirds eat the seeds after they sprout in the fall and winter.
\n\n\n\nPurple coneflowers are favorites at the garden center. Native Americans use their roots to treat coughs and fevers, and its ingredients are still used in teas and medicines today.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy, clay, rocky
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April to September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Swamp](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs its name suggests, swamp milkweed likes wet, moist, and swampy areas. It grows clusters of pink or white flowers in mid to late summer. They attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while being deer resistant.
\n\n\n\nIn 2005, the swamp milkweed was named the North Carolina Wildflower of the Year. It’s a critical host for monarch butterflies, which have declined due to habitat loss.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, moist, wet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Mid to late summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Virginia](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Virginia-Bluebells.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVirginia bluebells bloom in spring and go dormant by late summer. Due to the sap in their petals changing pH over time, their trumped-shaped flowers change from pink to blue. Long-tongued pollinators like mason bees, digger bees, and butterflies pollinate them. Deer and rabbits avoid Virginia bluebells.
\n\n\n\nVirginia bluebells work best surrounded by later-blooming flowers, which will take over after they die. They are self-seeders, meaning they drop seeds for other Virginia bluebells to grow.
\n\n\n\nSun: Part shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Light, sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average. It does its best when moisture is abundant and will decline when the soil is too dry.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. This plant self-seeds but is challenging to propagate. It should be cut back after flowering.
\n\n\n\nAn annual lives for only one growing season before dying, while a perennial regrows every spring.
The best planting time is in the spring or fall, but perennials can be planted any time the ground can be worked and when there’s no danger of frost.
The biggest dangers to perennials are:
• Lack of, or too much, sunlight
• Not enough, or too much, water
• Too much or not enough fertilizer
• Weed killers
• Freeze damage
• Transplant shock
Need help with finding and planting the right perennials? Contact a Wikilawn lawn care professional, and we’ll get your plants growing beautifully in no time.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: brillianthues / Flickr / Public Domain Mark 1.0
\n","title":"10 Great Perennials for Your North Carolina Landscape","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/1789c/Perennials.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/107df/Perennials.jpg 320w,\n/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/293e9/Perennials.jpg 500w,\n/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/f2cbb/Perennials.jpg 800w,\n/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/1789c/Perennials.jpg 960w,\n/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/c26c2/Perennials.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/1dd6e/Perennials.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/67b76/Perennials.webp 320w,\n/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/8df11/Perennials.webp 500w,\n/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/98a65/Perennials.webp 800w,\n/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/1dd6e/Perennials.webp 960w,\n/static/d7a37cd2f82af9716ec763c7e2051b9c/3cc96/Perennials.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Great Perennials for Your North Carolina Landscape","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Perennials can be great additions to your landscape because they are native to North Carolina and come back year after year"}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"ad308c4e-4f81-5cdf-938b-ab5aa5fad6a1","slug":"grass-types-ausitn","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/grass-types-ausitn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"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":"May 13th, 2020","excerpt":"There are a few different grass types for lawns Austin, TX each with their pros and cons. Here are the top choices for Austinites looking for new grass in their lawns: St. Augustine The most popular grass type in Austin is St. Augustine for several reasons. St. Augustine grass grows fast and tolerates shade. It […]
\n","content":"\nThere are a few different grass types for lawns Austin, TX each with their pros and cons. Here are the top choices for Austinites looking for new grass in their lawns:
\n\n\n\nThe most popular grass type in Austin is St. Augustine for several reasons. St. Augustine grass grows fast and tolerates shade. It doesn’t mind the warm weather so that this grass can handle scorching temperatures. You can use plugs and sods to plant and make sure you install them during early spring.
\n\n\n\nA negative to consider is that St. Augustine requires more maintenance than other varieties. You need to fertilize four times per year and water frequently, especially throughout drought periods. Installing an irrigation system is wise. You also must plan to mow frequently to avoid thatch buildup.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a common pick for Austin lawns, suited perfectly for central Texas climate. Residents select this variety, but you can find it on football fields as well. It offers rugged resilience and disease resistance.
\n\n\n\nYou do need to make sure you install an irrigation system or water frequently. Depending on what variety you select – common or improved – you may find yourself fertilizing and watering often. Bermudagrass isn’t a good choice for shady lawns.
\n\n\n\nZoysia is a beautiful, thick turf that tolerates shade well. If your grass experiences a lot of wear and traffic, Zoysia is a great choice. Unlike St. Augustine grass, Zoysia grows slower, so you don’t have to mow as often. That’s a bonus!
\n\n\n\nOn the other side, Zoysia takes one to three seasons to establish and doesn’t handle damage well. You will need to fertilize often and ensure that it is properly watered. Zoysia grass doesn’t tolerate drought. If you decide to go with Zoysia grass, learn how to maintain it properly, and your grass will look fantastic.
\n\n\n\nBuffalo grass is a Texas native turf grass that is rugged. It is naturally drought tolerant and disease resistant, making it a safe choice for Austin homeowners. You don’t have to worry about watering often or installing an irrigation system. Best of all, it only grows about 5 to 6 inches, so you don’t have to mow frequently.
\n\n\n\nThe only negative to buffalo grass is that it isn’t the prettiest lawn. It is ideal for someone who doesn’t want to put the time or resources into lawn care.
\n\n\n\nTaking care of your lawn in Austin, TX requires some dedication and understanding of the climate. It is important that you understand the tasks you should accomplish each season. During each season, pay attention to the different needs of your lawn, whether it is core aeration or proper irrigation. Use this guide to understand proper lawn care in Austin, TX.
\n","title":"The 5 Popular Grass Types in Austin, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/1789c/pixabay-green-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/107df/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/293e9/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/f2cbb/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/1789c/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/4fb49/pixabay-green-grass.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/1dd6e/pixabay-green-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/67b76/pixabay-green-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/8df11/pixabay-green-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/98a65/pixabay-green-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/1dd6e/pixabay-green-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/16dcf6fc943142efbe6eb155ffed840d/62477/pixabay-green-grass.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 5 Popular Grass Types in Austin, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"e1895252-142c-52f8-9eef-cbe24b41612b","slug":"best-grass-types-columbus-ohio","path":"/lawn-care/oh/best-grass-types-columbus-ohio/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5eab8b19-684d-573f-929d-53dda702846c","name":"Columbus","count":9,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/columbus/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"May 4th, 2021","excerpt":"If you’re looking for new grass on your capital city lawn, we have four choices for you to consider: Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescues. Columbus, Ohio, lawns need cool-season grasses to endure the wide temperature swings throughout the year, but after that, the choice is yours. Here are some things to […]
\n","content":"\nIf you’re looking for new grass on your capital city lawn, we have four choices for you to consider: Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescues.
\n\n\n\nColumbus, Ohio, lawns need cool-season grasses to endure the wide temperature swings throughout the year, but after that, the choice is yours.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things to consider before grabbing the first bag of cool-season grass you see at the home supply store:
\n\n\n\nIf you like to host get-togethers or flag football games on your lawn, consider a grass with a high foot traffic tolerance. Shade is another big consideration for lawns. If you have partial shade in your lawn, you’ll likely need a mix with sun-shade tolerance.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a closer look at each of these four best grass types for Columbus, Ohio, lawns:
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a beautiful but high-maintenance lawn. It is often found in a mix with other grass species on this list. It requires full sun and needs regular watering to maintain a healthy, green look.
\n\n\n\nIf you have flower beds that border your lawn, put concrete or metal edging around them. Kentucky bluegrass rhizomes have a reputation for spreading and will tunnel underground to start growing new grass in your flower beds.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
Spreads by: Rhizomes
Shade Tolerance: Low
Drought tolerance: Moderate to High*
Foot traffic tolerance: Moderate, but will recuperate fast due to its network of rhizomes.
Maintenance Needs: High
Mowing Height: 2” – 2 1/2”
Potential for Disease: Moderate to high
Other Notes: Kentucky bluegrass is susceptible to grubs and may be susceptible to thinning in early summer. Too much nitrogen or water leads to a high level of thatch, so annual aeration is sometimes necessary to keep this in check.
\n\n\n\n* This grass will go dormant if not watered regularly. However, it has an excellent ability to recover from drought. This is due to its network of rhizomes that help it stay alive during drought and recover quickly once watering resumes.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is often combined with Kentucky bluegrass and has excellent foot traffic tolerance. Like Kentucky bluegrass, it prefers full sun and has a moderate to high maintenance requirement.
\n\n\n\nSince it has no stolons or rhizomes, perennial ryegrass will not form thatch, which is helpful, especially if it is used in a mix with Kentucky bluegrass. It will develop a deep root system and therefore has a moderate drought tolerance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
Spreads by: No stolons or rhizomes. Bare patches will need to be re-seeded.
Shade Tolerance: Low – requires sun
Drought tolerance: Moderate
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance Needs: Moderate to high
Mowing Height: 2” – 3”
Potential for Disease: High
Other Notes: A sharp mower blade is required to cut through perennial ryegrass’s sturdy leaves. Endophyte-enhanced seed may help to reduce insect pressure.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a low-maintenance grass with a high foot traffic tolerance, turf-type tall fescue is worth considering. This cool-season grass forms deep roots and can withstand most Ohio droughts with little to no watering.
\n\n\n\nUse an improved variety of tall fescue for the best results. (Kentucky 31 is not recommended for home lawns.)
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
Spreads by: Depends on the variety. Most varieties are bunching. Some varieties have short rhizomes.
Shade Tolerance: Partial shade
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance Needs: Low
Mowing Height: 2.5” – 3.5”
Potential for Disease: Low to medium
Other Notes: Use a blend of two or three cultivars if you’re not mixing with another grass species. Excessive water or fertilization can lead to pest and disease issues, but endophyte-enhanced seed can help reduce insect pressure.
\n\n\n\nFine fescues grow well in acidic soil and have a low potential for thatch. Fine fescues also require little nitrogen, which furthers their reputation as a relatively low-maintenance grass. Fine fescues often come in grass mixes with other species, such as Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season
Spreads by: This is a bunching grass — no stolons or rhizomes. Creeping red fescue is an exception and has short rhizomes.
Shade Tolerance: Partial shade
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: Low
Maintenance Needs: Low to moderate
Mowing Height: 2” – 3”
Potential for Disease: Low to moderate
Other Notes: Consider endophyte-enhanced seed. Endophytes are a type of fungus that repels billbugs, sod webworms, and chinch bugs, reducing insect pressure in the lawn.
\n\n\n\nWhichever of the four grass types you choose, you should have a green lawn ready for outdoor cookouts, games of flag football, and able to weather the cooler winters common in Columbus, Ohio.
\n\n\n\nWant a second opinion on the best grass type for your Columbus lawn — or someone to mow your grass? Hire a lawn care pro who can help you choose and install the ideal grass seed for your lawn’s needs or who can keep your yard looking fit and trim.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Dan Keck | Flickr | CC0 1.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Columbus Lawns","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/1789c/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/107df/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 320w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/293e9/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 500w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/f2cbb/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 800w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/1789c/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 960w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/c26c2/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/1dd6e/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/67b76/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 320w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/8df11/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 500w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/98a65/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 800w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/1dd6e/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 960w,\n/static/bfd183454829c12ef9ba3112cb0dd358/3cc96/rsz_49199500373_aedbe54b4d_h.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Columbus Lawns | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"What are the best grass types for Columbus, Ohio, homes? Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescues."}}},{"node":{"id":"903e13c5-05b0-586e-9537-b430b6b16abb","slug":"best-native-plants-washington-dc","path":"/lawn-care/washington-dc/best-native-plants-washington-dc/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Stuart Kushner is a writer and aspiring product designer based in New York City. When he isn’t doing either, Stuart enjoys heavy metal music, exercise, and trying new food and drinks.","name":"Stuart Kushner","id":"82e51515-0cd6-5b19-a026-570eb408a24e","path":"/author/stuart-kushner/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/159400686ba92aeb1f5d3503e0246fc1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"30ecf80b-c320-5679-942e-29dcd7b95c66","name":"Washington DC","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/washington-dc/"}],"date":"April 18th, 2023","excerpt":"So, you just installed a new lawn. What next? How about choosing plants to finish off your landscaping? But not all plants are ideal for DC’s climate, which ranges from cold and snowy in the winter to steamy in the summer. Consider going with native these nine plants that look great and are well-adapted to […]
\n","content":"\nSo, you just installed a new lawn. What next? How about choosing plants to finish off your landscaping? But not all plants are ideal for DC’s climate, which ranges from cold and snowy in the winter to steamy in the summer. Consider going with native these nine plants that look great and are well-adapted to our four seasons in Washington.
\n\n\n\nThe top candidates are:
\n\n\n\nNative plants have adapted to the our climate, meaning they don’t need as much maintenance as non-native plants. They also come with the following benefits:
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Flowering-Dogwood-Cornus-florida.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nFound in gardens and yards throughout the DC area, the flowering dogwood is a popular and well-recognized small tree. White, showy, fragrant flowers bloom in the spring (which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies), giving way to red berries in the fall.
\n\n\n\nWhile stressed, flowering dogwoods are susceptible to diseases like powdery mildew, although none are life-threatening.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Grows best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nSoil: organically rich, moist, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 30 feet, sometimes reaching 40 feet.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Eastern-Redbud-Cercis-canadensis-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWith its beautiful pink and purple spring flowers and heart-shaped leaves, the eastern redbud is a DC favorite. It’s used as a garden accent under larger trees. Wildlife love the pods that release seeds in the fall.
\n\n\n\nThe eastern redbud’s stems can come down with canker (a fungus), but pruning them eliminates the infection.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial sun, full shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Dry or moist soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Any moist, well-draining, nutrient-rich soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 20 to 30 feet tall, with a 25- to 35-foot spread.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Serviceberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you need a small tree for your garden, consider the serviceberry. This early flowering tree has edible fruits (similar to blueberries) and, in the fall, brilliant orange-red foliage. Its flowers provide pollen and nectar to beneficial insects and birds.
\n\n\n\nServiceberries are vulnerable to diseases, which can make their fruit inedible to people (but not wildlife). Disease severity varies from year to year, partially due to weather conditions.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Acidic, moist, and well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 25 feet tall, with a 15- to 25-foot spread.
\n\n\n\n![\"File:Viburnum](\"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5a/Viburnum_dentatum_3zz.jpg/800px-Viburnum_dentatum_3zz.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNo matter the season, the arrowwood viburnum offers something of interest. White flowers bloom in late spring, followed by blue and black drupes (fruits) in the summer and fall, which birds and small animals love. In the fall, arrowwood viburnum turns yellow, orange, or red.
\n\n\n\nArrowwood viburnum prefers dry, moist, or wet soils and full to partial sun. It grows in an irregular, rounded shape.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Dry, moist, or wet soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam or sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 10 feet tall
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Winterberry-Ilex-Verticillata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Derek Ramsey / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a shrub that provides beauty in the winter months, the winterberry holly is a good choice. In the fall, it loses its leaves and grows bright red berries that birds and moths love.
\n\n\n\nWinterberry holly is dioecious, meaning there are male and female flowers on separate plants. The females produce berries, while the males provide the pollen the females need.
\n\n\n\nSome winterberry hollies bloom earlier than others. The more overlap between male and female blooms, the better the pollination and berry production.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moist or wet soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, well-drained, acidic (doesn’t like neutral or basic soils)
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 12 feet tall
\n\n\n\n![\"berries](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Callicarpa_americana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Korall / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nYou would expect a plant with “beauty” in its name to be beautiful, and the American beautyberry delivers on that front. Lavender flower clusters appear in the summer, giving way to magenta fruit in the fall.
\n\n\n\nIf you want the best fruit, plant the American beautyberry in full sun and dry, acidic soils. However, this shrub manages just fine in partial shade.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 7 to 11
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low (one inch per week)
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Partridge-Berry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnother favorite of winter gardens, partridge berry has deep, dark-green leaves and scarlet berries. In late spring, pairs of white flowers bloom. Both flowers in each pair need pollination before a single berry appears.
\n\n\n\nPartridge berries prefer shade but accept the morning sun. When planted in the garden, they’ll form a thick ground cover and only demand you keep garden debris away from them.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to deep shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Acidic, good drainage, moist, occasionally dry
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moist or wet soil
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lydia Fravel / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWant pollinators? Plant swamp milkweed. This plant attracts numerous beneficial insects, hummingbirds, and native bees. It grows flat clusters of pink and white flowers, and exudes a milky juice when broken.
\n\n\n\nSwamp milkweeds thrive in any type of garden soil as long as it doesn’t completely dry out, especially in the spring. Because of this, it’s a great addition to a native plant garden.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay or loam
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moist or wet soil
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red_Columbine_3630187830-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nContinuing with pollinator favorites, we have the red columbine. Its nodding, red, bell-like flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It generally lives 3 to 5 years and doesn’t need to be divided. However, it needs sun to partial shade and dry and moist soil.
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, silt, or sandy soil that’s well-drained, moist, dry-ish
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Weekly or whenever the soil is completely dry
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nYou can plant perennials as early as February. If you have any annuals, plant them in April.
Invasive plants are non-native plants that can cause economic, environmental, and health harm. They don’t have natural predators, produce many seeds, and grow aggressively.
It isn’t recommended, as poaching seeds and plants from wild areas will deplete these areas of the seeds they need to be self-sustaining. Nurseries will raise these native plants or ensure they weren’t stolen from the wild.
Take a look at your backyard. You might have some of these plants growing there. If you don’t, or if you want to buy more, the nation’s capital has plenty of nurseries to buy them, such as:
\n\n\n\nOnce you buy your fill of native plants, your lawn is next. Outfit it with some of the best grass types in Washington, DC, to ensure the healthiest lawn possible. However, you don’t need to lift a finger, unless it’s to pick up your cell phone and call one of Wikilawn’s local pros to do the work for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: cultivar413 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"9 Native Plants for Your Washington DC Landscape","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/1789c/winterberry.jpg","srcSet":"/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/107df/winterberry.jpg 320w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/293e9/winterberry.jpg 500w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/f2cbb/winterberry.jpg 800w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/1789c/winterberry.jpg 960w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/c26c2/winterberry.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/1dd6e/winterberry.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/67b76/winterberry.webp 320w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/8df11/winterberry.webp 500w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/98a65/winterberry.webp 800w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/1dd6e/winterberry.webp 960w,\n/static/47f0c76b36a6c1043b1cf747c5768906/3cc96/winterberry.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Native Plants for Your Washington DC Landscape | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Turn your DC garden into something extraordinary with these native plants that look great and are well-suited to all four seasons"}}},{"node":{"id":"390aa8c8-5287-56ad-810c-298a15462946","slug":"best-winter-flowers-new-york","path":"/lawn-care/ny/best-winter-flowers-new-york/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Abdul Wadood is a writer and SEO specialist from India. He recently started writing about lawns and enjoys it. In his spare time, he enjoys going on trips.","name":"Abdul Wadood","id":"236127ca-c7a6-50bb-9ab7-dd3e7e3fe6d8","path":"/author/abdul-wadood/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/395f0103c8419fd32e2c021818b78121?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"d385702e-0566-5651-8f72-f93cc1c9db6b","name":"New York","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ny/"}],"date":"June 5th, 2023","excerpt":"In most Northern states, we’ve resigned ourselves to a brown, lifeless landscape during those cold-weather months. But what if you could keep splashes of color and life in your yard during the dreariest months? It’s possible with these nine great winter flowers, which will dress up your Empire State yard when you need it most. […]
\n","content":"\nIn most Northern states, we’ve resigned ourselves to a brown, lifeless landscape during those cold-weather months. But what if you could keep splashes of color and life in your yard during the dreariest months? It’s possible with these nine great winter flowers, which will dress up your Empire State yard when you need it most.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Winter-Aconite-Eranthis-hyemalis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Martin Olsson (mnemo on en/sv wikipedia and commons, martin@minimum.se). / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWinter aconite has bright green leaves surrounding cup-shaped, bright yellow flowers from late winter to early spring. It goes dormant in late spring and throughout the summer.
\n\n\n\nWinter aconite is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in moist soil with good drainage. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight a day for the best growth. But unlike many flowering plants, it doesn’t do well in high temperatures, making it ideal for winter gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to six inches tall and just as wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, loam, clay, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Snowdrop-Galanthus-Nivalis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSnowdrop features two erect, narrow, green leaves and bell-shaped, white flowers atop the stem. It blooms from mid-winter to early spring and depends on bees for pollination.
\n\n\n\nSnowdrop grows best in full sun and can withstand partial shade. It’s a low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering. Snowdrop prefers moist soil with good drainage and can resist critters.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 12 inches tall and six inches wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam, clay, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Columbine-Aquilegia-canadensis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ragesoss / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWild Columbine is a short-lived perennial that blooms from late winter to mid-summer, producing reddish-yellow, bell-shaped flowers that hawk moths and hummingbirds love. Wild Columbine is native to New York and is well-adapted to the region’s climate and soil conditions.
\n\n\n\nThis plant grows best in partial shade and prefers moist soil with good drainage. It’s also quite hardy. In addition to thriving in cold temperatures, it survives with moderate watering and resists insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"American](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/American-Pussy-Willow.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fyn Kynd / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmerican pussy willow features multiple trunks with bright green leaves and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The flower buds burst and expose their soft silky hair from late winter to late spring. The flowers aren’t showy, nor do they have fragrance.
\n\n\n\nAmerican pussy willow loves full sun and prefers nutrient-rich, moist soil with good drainage. It’s susceptible to attack from caterpillars, aphids, and sawflies. American pussy willow is native to New York and doesn’t require synthetic fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Bright green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Boxwood\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Boxwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Prosopee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBoxwood is a low-maintenance evergreen shrub featuring attractive dark green foliage. The leaves are especially appealing when there’s some snow on them. The plant blooms from late winter to early spring, producing small, non-showy, yellowish-green flowers.
\n\n\n\nBoxwood requires at least six hours of direct sunlight a day for the best growth. It can withstand partial shade, but the growth speed will reduce. Boxwood doesn’t require frequent watering, but we recommend applying some mulch to prevent the shallow roots from getting dry.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 20 feet tall and just as wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, loam, clay, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Border](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Border-Forsythia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBorder forsythia is not native to New York but can thrive here with little maintenance. It grows best in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Border forsythia grows fast, gaining 24 inches a year. It’s a safe plant to grow on your lawn if you have curious kids and pets because it is not known to present any harzards.
\n\n\n\nBorder forsythia blooms from mid-winter to late spring, producing large, bright yellow flowers. Though this shrub is a non-native, it has good resistance to cold temperatures.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 10 feet tall and 12 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, loam, clay, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Fragrant](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Fragrant-Daphne.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Miya / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFragrant daphne produces highly fragrant, whitish-pink flowers from mid-to-late winter that butterflies and bees love. Its foliage looks beautiful too. Fragrant daphne grows best in full sun and can withstand partial shade. It prefers moist soil with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nAll parts of fragrant daphne are toxic to humans and pets. So, it’s best to grow this shrub on the exterior or in a place that’s out of reach for your kids and pets.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 7 feet tall and 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Early](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Early-Crocus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrew Barden / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEarly crocus is a beautiful, low-growing perennial with calyx-shaped flowers appearing during late winter to mid-spring. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for the best growth. Early crocus prefers soil with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nFall is the best time to plant early crocus. It’s a low-maintenance plant with moderate watering requirements. Early crocus is toxic to humans and pets, so grow it cautiously.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Bulb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 0.4 feet tall and 0.2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, loam, clay, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/American-Witch-Hazel-Hamamelis-virginiana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWitch hazel is a New York native tree that blooms from early fall to late winter, producing fragrant, wispy, yellow flowers. Its foliage looks exceptional during winter, with round, yellow leaves. Witch hazel requires little to no maintenance and can resist pests and diseases.
\n\n\n\nWitch hazel requires full sun for the best growth and prefers moist soil with good drainage. It’s a small tree that can grow up to 30 feet in height and spread 20 feet.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Small tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green in spring, yellow in fall
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans, toxic to pets
\n\n\n\nNative plants are well-adapted to a region’s climate and soil conditions. Here are some advantages of native plants over non-natives.
• They are easier to maintain.
• They attract birds, butterflies, bees, and other wildlife to your garden.
• They require less water as they naturally adapt to the local environmental conditions.
• They need fewer pesticides and fertilizers.
Wild Columbine, American pussy willow, and witch hazel are native to New York.
American pussy willow and border forsythia are non-toxic.
The cold, snowy weather of New York doesn’t mean that your lawn should look dreary. All plants listed here bloom in winter and can add colors to your garden even when there’s snow.
\n\n\n\nIf you need assistance with landscape design, lawn maintenance, or even choosing the best plants, Wikilawn New York lawn care pros are just a click away.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Kora27 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"9 Best Winter Flowers for New York","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/1789c/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/107df/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.jpg 320w,\n/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/293e9/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.jpg 500w,\n/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/f2cbb/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.jpg 800w,\n/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/1789c/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.jpg 960w,\n/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/c26c2/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/1dd6e/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/67b76/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.webp 320w,\n/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/8df11/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.webp 500w,\n/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/98a65/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.webp 800w,\n/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/1dd6e/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.webp 960w,\n/static/f192ca970d16036d80e955105f2ac4e4/3cc96/Eranthis-hyemalis-Winter-Aconite.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Best Winter Flowers for New York","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"New York has cold winters that aren't kind to flowering plants, but certain flowers, shrubs, and trees actually prefer the cold. Here are nine."}}},{"node":{"id":"7d2e7680-104e-527f-87e0-074b1de19b72","slug":"how-to-use-weed-and-feed","path":"/blog/how-to-use-weed-and-feed/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"You cannot create an attractive and healthy lawn just by eliminating weeds. It is also essential to feed your grass the necessary nutrients. Weed and feed products allow you to check both these lawn care tasks off your list in one go. This article will explore how to use weed and feed for your lawn. […]
\n","content":"\nYou cannot create an attractive and healthy lawn just by eliminating weeds. It is also essential to feed your grass the necessary nutrients. Weed and feed products allow you to check both these lawn care tasks off your list in one go. This article will explore how to use weed and feed for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nThese products are designed not only to control weeds but also to foster healthy, thriving, green grass. In addition to how to use weed and feed, this article also discusses what weed and feed is, how it works, and how it can be a friend or foe.
\n\n\nIt is best to apply weed and feed when the temperature is between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Most areas of the country experience these temperatures in late spring and early fall.
\n\n\n\nIt is easier to manage perennial weeds and several types of annual weeds during this time of year. Spring and fall are also the best times to fertilize your lawn, depending on your grass type – late spring for warm-season grasses, fall for cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n![\"cool-season](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/cool-season-and-warm-season-grass-map.jpg\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nProducts with nitrogen should not be used until the soil temperature at a depth of 4 inches is consistently 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If the product has potassium instead of nitrogen, it can be applied during the end of winter or early spring.
\n\n\n\nKeep in mind that grass should be fertilized at specific times and intervals to remain healthy. Weed killers must also be applied at specific times of year to be effective. The proper timing for fertilizer and weed control doesn’t always overlap, which is one reason why weed and feed can be bad for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nDo not apply weed and feed more than twice annually, and do not use the products in extreme temperatures, hot spells, droughts, or on windy days.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUsing weed and feed takes pre-planning to make sure the product works. Here are some things you can do before applying weed and feed to ensure the best possible results:
\n\n\n\n— Select a day to apply weed and feed when it is not forecasted to rain for about a week. Water will wash away the product before it can take effect.
— For new lawns recently seeded, do not apply weed and feed until the grass has grown enough that you’ve had to mow it twice.
— About two days before you apply weed and feed, mow your grass to a normal height. This will help the weed and feed absorb evenly into your lawn.
— Watering your grass helps granules adhere to the weeds. But do not water it too much, as it will have an adverse effect. The grass should be slightly damp when you apply the product.
![\"hand-held](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_114848000106_62e914cb15_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jerry Norbury / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nMake sure you use the proper tools to apply weed and feed and wear protective clothing and accessories. You do not want to be exposed to these toxic chemicals any more than necessary.
\n\n\n\nTools needed:
\n\n\n\n— Sprayer for liquid weed and feed
— Drop-type spreader or rotary spreader for granules
Steps to apply weed and feed:
\n\n\n\n— For liquid weed and feed, mix and spray as per the product label’s directions.
— For granules, follow the product label’s instructions for adjusting the spreader settings.
— Open the spreader as per the product’s directions.
— Add the weed and feed in the amount indicated by the package instructions.
— If you are applying near plants you do not wish to kill, place plastic over them or use a drop spreader to protect the vegetation.
— Start at the edge of your lawn and go back and forth in parallel lines, spraying or spreading the weed and feed product consistently as you go. Move similarly to how you would if you were mowing, but overlap yourself slightly. This ensures every area is covered.
— Do not water or mow your lawn after applying weed and feed. Follow the product’s instructions for when to do so for granules and liquid products. If your product has no instructions, see our article on when to water the lawn after applying weed and feed.
![\"caution](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/224f4055-1667-42b4-b7d2-082a567c5f63-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ArtBoyMB / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWeed and feed products contain a combination of dangerous chemicals, like MCPP, 2,4-D, and dicamba. Some of these have been linked to chronic toxicity and cancer. Keep children and pets out of the treated area for as long as possible.
\n\n\n\nWait until after a heavy downpour before allowing them back in the yard. If you used a granular product, make sure you can no longer see the granules.
\n\n\n\nIf you would rather use a product that doesn’t put your loved ones at risk, see our list of pet-safe weed killers, which are safe to use around children, too.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Crabgrass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Large-crabgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHere are some reasons your weed and feed application may not have worked:
\n\n\n\n— These products only work on broadleaf weeds and not grassy weeds like crabgrass. To treat crabgrass, you’ll need a product with a specific crabgrass preventer. Read the label to identify which weeds the product targets.
— You may have watered the grass too soon, or it may have rained too soon after the weed and feed application.
— Weeds must be mature and actively growing for weed and feed to be effective. So, you may have applied it at the wrong time in the weed’s life cycle.
— You did not follow all the prepping steps.
“Weed & feed” is what pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides are called when they include a lawn fertilizer to nourish the grass. These products can improve your grass when applied at the right time. Improved, healthy grass reduces the chances of weeds sprouting.
\n\n\n\nPre-Emergent Weed and Feed: Most weed and feed products are post-emergents. They should be applied before weeds sprout to prevent the weed seeds from germinating. Some, like Scott’s Turf Builder, offer options with crabgrass preventer.
\n\n\n\nPost-Emergent Weed and Feed: Weed and feed post-emergents consist of dicamba and other chemicals that attack broadleaf weeds like dollarweed, dandelions, and plantain. They kill weeds that are actively growing, and they work most effectively when the weeds are young and vulnerable.
\n\n\n\nWhen a post-emergent weed and feed is applied, the weed’s foliage absorbs the toxins. Dicamba is a chemical that penetrates the plant’s roots, making the post-emergent more toxic to the weed. Homeowners should be aware that other plants also absorb the chemical and can be damaged. Be careful not to apply post-emergent weed and feeds on plants you want to keep around.
\n\n\n\nPre-Emergent and Post-Emergent Weed and Feed: Some products contain chemicals that are pre-emergent and post-emergent, which means they can kill currently growing weeds and prevent weeds from growing in the future. The chemical atrazine is an example.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"bags](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/e7e9bd22-a137-4af7-8800-a8c9ed2b9213.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Srinuan Hirunwat / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nSelecting the right weed and feed is similar to choosing the appropriate weed killer or fertilizer separately. Be familiar with the weeds you need to eliminate and the type of grass you have. Make sure you know the best time to apply fertilizer to your lawn.
\n\n\n\nRead weed and feed labels to ensure the herbicide kills the type of weeds you have, determine if your grass has to be at a certain stage to use the product, and make sure the time of year to apply the herbicide coincides with the time your grass should be fertilized.
\n\n\n\nHere are some examples of weed and feed chemicals and products. Included are examples of weeds and grass types they can be used on:
\n\n\n\nAce Lawn Weed Killer
\n\n\n\n— Attacks broadleaf weeds
— Safe to use on: Bermudagrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and Zoysiagrass
MCPP, 2,4-D, and Dicamba Mixture
\n\n\n\n— Attacks broadleaf weeds
— Safe to use on: St. Augustinegrass, tall fescue, Bahiagrass
Scotts Turf Builder
\n\n\n\n— Contains 2,4-D and Dicamba
— Controls several weeds, including common weeds like clover, henbit, and chickweed
— Offers products with crabgrass preventer
— Safe to use on: Centipedegrass, Bahiagrass, Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue
How long should you wait before reseeding a lawn after applying weed and feed?
\n\n\n\nWeed and feed can stop seed germination, so you must ensure it is completely absorbed before reseeding. Wait four weeks before planting grass seed. Likewise, waiting four weeks before overseeding your lawn is also best.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen is a lawn treated with herbicides safe for children and pets?
\n\n\n\nAllow a hard rain to wash away any residual from the herbicide. You can also water your grass a few days consecutively before letting children and pets on the grass.
\n\n\n\nWhen not in use, keep herbicides out of the reach of children and pets. These chemicals can be just as harmful to pets as they are to humans.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow can I reduce runoff from herbicides?
\n\n\n\nHerbicides that have spilled over onto hard surfaces like sidewalks or roads can be washed into storm drains. Use a rake or broom to push the chemicals back into your grass. This will reduce runoff that can harm the environment.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou have a few choices to treat weeds. Whether you select pre-emergent, post-emergent, or weed and feed products depends on your specific situation. For example, the types of weeds you have, the stage of weed accumulation, and your grass type are all determinants.
\n\n\n\nYou may also base your decision on how the toxicity of chemicals can affect your family and choose DIY weed killer mixtures that are safe for humans and pets. In this case, you would have to fertilize your grass separately, which is not such a bad thing. Grass clippings left on the lawn after mowing are a natural fertilizer. If you have lawn weeds, avoid leaving grass clippings, as this will spread the weeds.
\n\n\n\nIt is important to practice good lawn care habits to maintain a healthy green lawn and keep lawn weeds from returning. Fertilizing, watering, and mowing your grass appropriately will help reduce the chances of weed growth. Treating your grass for diseases is also imperative.
\n\n\n\nAnd if you don’t feel like figuring out weed and feed and other lawn care products yourself, let WikiLawn connect you with qualified lawn care professionals in your area to keep your lawn healthy and appealing for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Jon Rehg / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"How to Use Weed and Feed for Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/1789c/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/107df/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.jpg 320w,\n/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/293e9/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.jpg 500w,\n/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/f2cbb/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.jpg 800w,\n/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/1789c/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.jpg 960w,\n/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/c26c2/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/1dd6e/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/67b76/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.webp 320w,\n/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/8df11/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.webp 500w,\n/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/98a65/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.webp 800w,\n/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/1dd6e/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.webp 960w,\n/static/5a9efe0b22496dd9055fe2734db34fee/3cc96/ca55b829-6e9e-437b-bf55-04c507a3cdf9.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Use Weed and Feed for Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Learn how and when to use weed and feed products, examples of weeds they control, and the best products for different grass types."}}},{"node":{"id":"c00f4ae4-8c13-5db5-ad78-8f4571f36ebf","slug":"fall-lawn-care-checklist-columbus","path":"/lawn-care/oh/columbus/fall-lawn-care-checklist-columbus/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Andie Ioó is a writer for LawnStarter. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, sports, and trying out new healthy recipes. She also loves reading and watching reruns of classic '90s TV shows.","name":"Andie Ioo","id":"00424d9e-71f7-5a65-a764-eb85c6210e90","path":"/author/andie-ioo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c7090b8e789516e6df2e9bd1a57a1ece?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5eab8b19-684d-573f-929d-53dda702846c","name":"Columbus","count":9,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/columbus/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"April 12th, 2023","excerpt":"Don’t wait until the last minute to start your outdoor winter prepping. Fall weekends can get awfully busy, but there’s no doubt certain outdoor activities shouldn’t be put on the back burner. Make it a priority to check these tasks off your fall lawn care checklist for Columbus and you will have a healthier and […]
\n","content":"\nDon’t wait until the last minute to start your outdoor winter prepping. Fall weekends can get awfully busy, but there’s no doubt certain outdoor activities shouldn’t be put on the back burner. Make it a priority to check these tasks off your fall lawn care checklist for Columbus and you will have a healthier and more beautiful lawn come spring.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll go over:
\n\n\n\nThe cool autumn weather is a great opportunity to fertilize your lawn, control weeds, and improve the overall health and appearance of your Columbus yard. With some effort on your part now, you’ll have a green, healthy carpet by the time spring rolls around.
\n\n\n\n![\"Brown](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Rake-Debris.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David Goehring / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEver notice how getting leaves off your lawn immediately boosts your home’s curb appeal? But there’s more to raking leaves than aesthetics.
\n\n\n\nYou can mulch them in your yard to provide some organic nutrients for your soil, but don’t build a thick layer as it can interfere with lawn care treatments and block sunlight. Alternatively, you can gather them up and add them to your compost.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_33362501875_0d0e78d669_o.jpg\")
Photo Credit: UBC Micrometeorology / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nColumbus residents generally plant cool-season grasses that grow most vigorously in spring and fall. Careful watering in the fall will lead to healthy growth, strong roots, and a good fighting chance for your grass in winter.
\n\n\n\nWater your lawn until the first freeze approaches, around October. Cool-season grass needs around 1 inch of water per week, which includes rainfall. Let your lawn guide you and watch for signs of overwatering, such as:
\n\n\n\nUnderwatering is bad for your lawn as well. A lack of regular watering will result in:
\n\n\n\nAs a rule of thumb, try to follow these watering guidelines:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dethatcher2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agri-Fab, Inc. / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDethatching is the removal of excess thatch (grass clippings, leaves, dead grass, and other organic matter) from your lawn.
\n\n\n\nDethatching is recommended for lawns that are dry, less dense, and unhealthy. It allows nutrients, air, and water to better reach the soil. Not to mention that it keeps pests at bay, which is always a plus.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to dethatch cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue is late August or early September. With proper lawn maintenance, dethatching only needs to be done once every few years.
\n\n\n\nHow to tell if you need to dethatch:
\n\n\n\nHow to dethatch your lawn:
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Aeration-Tool.jpg\")
Photo Credit: allispossible.org.uk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you dream of a lush lawn, you can’t overlook aeration. When you aerate, you reduce soil compaction and allow fertilizer, air, and water to penetrate your lawn’s root system. It’s best to aerate your cool-season grasses in fall.
\n\n\n\nOften, dethatching and aeration go hand in hand. When you dethatch, you remove the dead layer of matter preventing your soil from getting the proper nutrients. Then, you come in with aeration to help your lawn breathe.
\n\n\n\nAs a homeowner, there are three different types of aeration you should know about.
\n\n\n\nWhen to aerate: August through November are ideal for fall aeration in Columbus. Also, if possible, try to aerate around the time you fertilize to enhance root growth.
\n\n\n\nHow often to aerate: Most lawns benefit from annual aeration, but heavily used lawns may require aeration twice a year.
\n\n\n\nWhat to expect after aeration: Immediately after aeration, your lawn will be covered with the small plugs pulled from the soil, but worry not, as they’ll disappear into the lawn within a week or two.
\n\n\n\nAbout seven to 10 days after aeration, white active root growth will fill the holes – a sign that the grass is getting the necessary nutrients from the soil. With repeated aeration, your lawn will be able to go longer between waterings without wilting and its drought and heat tolerance will improve significantly.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lab](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Soil-Fertility-Analysis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alandmanson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSoil tests are an excellent investment for lawns, gardens, and landscapes. They’re an inexpensive way to maintain soil health and provide an accurate diagnostic. You can get a complete picture of nutrient levels, also known as N-P-K levels (which stands for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium). Though these nutrients are always present in your soil, their levels may not be optimal for grass growth.
\n\n\n\nBy having a soil sample tested, you’ll find out:
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to have your soil tested, we explain the process below.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to give this process a shot, you can take advantage of the services provided by Ohio State University Extension in Licking County. The university will help you fill out the submission form and send the samples to an accredited lab. Depending on the soil test results, you’ll know what your lawn needs to thrive.
\n\n\n\n![\"Overseeding](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_2img_3650.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen you look out into your yard, the last thing you want to see is brown patches, spots, and weeds. Luckily, overseeding can prevent all of that. It involves adding seed to your existing grass without tearing up the lawn or soil. Simply put, it’s an easy way to fill in bare spots, improve the density of turf, introduce new grass varieties to your lawn, and enhance color.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to overseed in Columbus is mid to late September, prior to the first frost. If you’ve aerated (which is strongly recommended), overseeding should be done within 48 hours to avoid issues such as decomposition of the aeration plugs or debris getting into the holes.
\n\n\n\nOverseeding can:
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Fertilizer-Spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dion Hinchcliffe / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLawns do a lot more for us than provide a green carpet for our toes to glide through. They improve air quality, reduce heat, and generate oxygen, so keeping them in top shape is important. One of the best ways to do that is to fertilize them.
\n\n\n\nChoosing the right fertilizer means knowing what your soil’s exact needs are. If you’re unsure, consider taking some soil samples and sending them out to a lab for testing (Ohio State University offers submission support and helpful information). The diagnostic will provide insight into your soil’s current condition and the correct nutrients it needs to flourish.
\n\n\n\nFor maximum winter hardiness, disease resistance, and root growth, select a fertilizer that has high concentrations of the macronutrients nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (also known as N-P-K ratio).
\n\n\n\nNitrogen is vital for lawn growth and that lovely green grass color. The percentage of nitrogen is always the first number on a fertilizer bag, followed by phosphorus and potassium. It will always be higher than the others because soils generally contain enough phosphorus and potassium.
\n\n\n\nPro tip: When it comes to new lawns, you should pick a fertilizer with less nitrogen and more phosphorus and potassium, to get the lawn established. A typical N-P-K ratio in this case is 12-16-8 or 8-18-12.
\n\n\n\nThe second number represents the percentage of phosphorus. This nutrient is critical in developing and strengthening a healthy root system. Strong grass roots will keep your lawn healthy and sturdy even through the changing stresses of the seasons. It’s important to introduce phosphorus when first establishing turfgrass and continue application as the grass grows.
\n\n\n\nThe last macronutrient vitally important to lawn health is potassium. It supports water absorption, respiration, and protein production. In essence, potassium helps lawns withstand drought, stress, and disease.
\n\n\n\nFertilizers can be slow-release or quick-release.
\n\n\n\nSlow-release fertilizers are much better for your lawn, as they promote steady, uniform growth. As an added bonus, you won’t have to fertilize regularly.
\n\n\n\nQuick-release fertilizers are absorbed at a much faster pace, but there’s a high risk of burning your lawn. Plus, they don’t last as long, so you’ll need to re-apply.
\n\n\n\nWhen to fertilize: Plan for two fertilizer applications between late August and November. Summer heat is stressful on our lawns, so fall’s cooler temperatures provide the perfect opportunity for Columbus lawns to regain strength.
\n\n\n\nFall is the best time to fertilize because:
\n\n\n\nThe best time of day to apply fertilizer is in the morning or early evening. You’ll avoid the warm daytime temperatures that work against the process.
\n\n\n\nHow to fertilize:
\n\n\n\n![\"large](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lawn Weeds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGrass grows best in fall, but did you know that weeds do, as well? There are many types of weeds lurking in our yards just waiting for a chance to sow seed. They’re a pain and can cause issues such as allergic reactions.
\n\n\n\nIn Columbus, you’ll likely encounter nuisances such as:
\n\n\n\nThankfully, there are a few good ways to combat these annoying plants. While fertilizer generally keeps weeds at bay, it may not be enough. Applying pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicides is a great way to nip the problem in the bud.
\n\n\n\nPre-emergent herbicide acts by creating a chemical barrier in the top layer of soil and coating the seeds to prevent them from growing roots. Make sure it becomes incorporated into the soil via rainfall or irrigation, as it must be present whenever weed seeds are germinating.
\n\n\n\nHow it works: It inhibits plant root growth, seed cell division, and specific enzymes critical to the growth of certain plants like weeds.
\n\n\n\nWhen to apply pre-emergent herbicide: Timing is everything. Try to stick to an early to mid-September application and select the right herbicide for your yard.
\n\n\n\nSome weeds will slip past pre-emergent herbicides. In that case, post-emergent herbicide becomes your best friend. It controls weeds that have already germinated and are actively growing.
\n\n\n\nHow it works: It targets specific plant parts, such as leaves and stems. The mixture of chemicals kills the weed and prevents it from growing back.
\n\n\n\nWhen to apply post-emergent herbicide: For Columbus cool-season grasses, post-emergents are best applied in early fall when temperatures are at or slightly above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nA non-selective herbicide kills pretty much everything it touches. In contrast, selective herbicide targets specific weed types and leaves other plants alone.
\n\n\n\nWeed control products are generally available in both granular and liquid forms and application varies. Granular herbicide is poured into a spreader and distributed evenly across the area of the lawn. Liquid herbicide is poured into a sprayer and sprayed all over the target area.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Mowing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA good sign that you need to stop mowing is when your grass stops growing. It’s important that your lawn is cut to the right height before winter.
\n\n\n\nMow too high and your grass can develop snow mold during wintertime. Grass that’s cut too short may wither and die in the cold temperatures of Columbus.
\n\n\n\nOnce frost has arrived, stop mowing. Frost freezes the moisture inside the grass blades, so any activity on your turf can break the blade and significantly damage your grass.
\n\n\n\nThe table below highlights the mowing height appropriate for Columbus cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Suggested Fall Mowing Height |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2 – 2.5 inches |
| Perennial ryegrass | 2 – 2.5 inches |
| Fine fescue | 2 – 2.5 inches |
| Tall fescue | 2 – 3 inches |
![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Valve.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUnless you properly winterize your irrigation system before winter, you’ll likely end up with cracked pipes and broken sprinkler heads come springtime.
\n\n\n\nColumbus homeowners are advised to winterize their sprinklers in October or early November, before the first freeze.
\n\n\n\nThe winterization process involves:
\n\n\n\nIt depends on how loose your soil is. Grass seeds should be placed on loose, prepared soil. If you simply throw it down, there may be some sprouting, but generally speaking the germination rate won’t be very successful. Taking the time to get your soil ready will ensure optimal results.
Good lawn care leads to a lush, great-looking lawn. Avoid making the following mistakes:
• Mowing too short. This causes your lawn to thin out and provides space for weeds to push through.
• Bagging your clippings. Contrary to popular belief, clippings don’t increase thatch. They provide around 25% of the fertilizer your lawn needs, so don’t deprive your grass of readily available free nutrients.
• Cutting your grass with dull mower blades. Don’t use dull mower blades to mow your lawn as the mower tears the grass blades rather than cutting them. The damage can leave your lawn susceptible to lawn disease.
Chemical fertilizers are generally a ‘quick fix’ solution. They provide the nutrients grass needs, but pollute our water, soil, and the environment within the soil itself. In contrast, organic fertilizers are made from natural ingredients that produce long-lasting feeding for your lawn, making them a much better alternative.
Fall in Columbus is a beautiful sight – the leaves are bright and colorful, the weather is perfect for your favorite sweater, and there are tons of activities to enjoy all week long.
\n\n\n\nBut before you go apple picking and pumpkin patch visiting, get your lawn ready for the long winter ahead. Start planning early to avoid being caught unprepared.
\n\n\n\nStill, if you’d rather go bike riding in one of the city’s metro parks or explore the Columbus zoo and aquarium, a Columbus lawn care pro can get your lawn ready for the cold season so you can continue doing all the things you love.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Ohio State University / Dan Keck / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n","title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Columbus, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/1789c/The-Ohio-State-University.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/107df/The-Ohio-State-University.jpg 320w,\n/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/293e9/The-Ohio-State-University.jpg 500w,\n/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/f2cbb/The-Ohio-State-University.jpg 800w,\n/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/1789c/The-Ohio-State-University.jpg 960w,\n/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/c26c2/The-Ohio-State-University.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/1dd6e/The-Ohio-State-University.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/67b76/The-Ohio-State-University.webp 320w,\n/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/8df11/The-Ohio-State-University.webp 500w,\n/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/98a65/The-Ohio-State-University.webp 800w,\n/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/1dd6e/The-Ohio-State-University.webp 960w,\n/static/0ffe7518ad4c362dffd468595cf002f5/3cc96/The-Ohio-State-University.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Columbus, OH","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With Columbus’ snowy winters and frigid temperatures, it’s important to get your lawn ready for the cold ahead by doing some fall maintenance."}}},{"node":{"id":"35e6a194-7d4a-5b96-8183-f1aad6b7a865","slug":"when-to-fertilize-your-lawn-in-delaware","path":"/lawn-care/de/when-to-fertilize-your-lawn-in-delaware/","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":"0ce95d41-82d7-5ce1-a6c9-4942e40ae6b9","name":"Delaware","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/de/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 15th, 2023","excerpt":"Delaware’s classic, four-season climate makes it hard for many of us to figure out lawn management. Worry not. All you have to do is master the most crucial routine – fertilization. Learning when to fertilize your Delaware lawn and using the right kind of product will help you create a strong, healthy, and lush green […]
\n","content":"\nDelaware’s classic, four-season climate makes it hard for many of us to figure out lawn management. Worry not. All you have to do is master the most crucial routine – fertilization. Learning when to fertilize your Delaware lawn and using the right kind of product will help you create a strong, healthy, and lush green lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe traditional approach is to combine fertilization with other lawn care tasks, such as raking, aeration, mowing, weeding, etc., in the springtime. But this practice isn’t ideal for Delaware lawns. Fall is the right time to fertilize your lawn here so it has all the nutrition it needs for the winter and grows generously the following spring.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will learn about fertilization in depth:
\n\n\n\nNo matter what kind of plants you’re feeding, scheduling the correct timing will set them for success or failure in the coming season. The right time to fertilize your lawn depends on many factors, including the climate, light exposure, soil type and pH, plant types in your lawn, and more.
\n\n\n\nA good practice for most lawns is to fertilize at least twice a year to ensure good overall health. To be safe, you can remember this rule of thumb: Apply lawn fertilizer when the grass is actively growing. For Delaware lawns with cool-season grasses, this time is early fall or early spring, when the temperatures are still a bit chilly.
\n\n\n\nApplying fertilizer in the wrong season can encourage tender new growth that easily gets damaged, encourages weed growth, or simply burns your lawngrass. Early leaf development will simply give you a vulnerable lawn. A few general rules to keep in mind:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/solar-panels-working-8-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: groveb / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nKnowing the right time to fertilize isn’t enough. There are 4 R’s of nutrient stewardship that should guide fertilizer application for any lawn, advocated by many agricultural conservationists.
\n\n\n\nGetting all four R’s right fosters a beneficial environment for your plants and wildlife. For fertilizer, remember that more is not always better.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fertilizer.jpg\")
Photo Credit: schulzie / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nBefore we get to the monthly lawn fertilization schedule for your Delaware lawn, here are a few pointers to remember.
\n\n\n\nSomething you need to know before you start is how grass utilizes its nutrients. Lawn grass uses more energy for root growth in the fall and puts energy into growing leaves in the spring.
\n\n\n\nIf you fertilize your lawn when it’s focused on top growth – spring – you basically just push the grass leaves to grow faster and taller, translating into more mowing. On the other hand, fertilizing in the fall promotes a healthy and deep root system that encourages grass to spread by tillers.
\n\n\n\nNitrogen is a major nutrient that contributes to the health of grass plants. It’s a mineral fuels hungry and growing plants. It also boosts chlorophyll production and contributes to a darker, deeper, more emerald-green grass color.
\n\n\n\nNitrogen enters the grass plant through its root system. You can see new shoots appear within hours of nitrogen application. This is why you will likely need to mow more after you apply high-nitrogen fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nNitrogen gives strength to the roots and supports strong shoot growth and makes up a major portion of most types of fertilizers.
\n\n\n\nMost lawns need to be fed twice a year – once in early spring and once in the fall. The same goes for lawns in Delaware. But, lawn care experts recommend applying 65 to 75% of the total amount of nitrogen fertilizer your lawn needs between September and November.
\n\n\n\nHere’s a timeline that can help keep track of what your lawn eats:
\n\n\n\nYour lawn needs three major nutrients. These are:
\n\n\n\nAnd there are different types of fertilizers that your Delaware lawn may need:
\n\n\n\nSingle-ingredient, as the name suggests, contains only one primary plant nutrient. It targets the specific needs of plants at different developmental stages. It is free from fillers as well – no wood ash, marl, lime, manure, limestone, or other materials.
\n\n\n\nSo, you can get nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium fertilizers to treat a single problem or boost a certain quality in your Delaware lawn. For example, if your lawn has winter damage, potassium fertilizer will aid plant growth and healthy recovery. Potassium helps to synthesize proteins and starches and assists with nutrient and water uptake.
\n\n\n\nThese fertilizers contain all three nutrients in different percentages. Every combination fertilizer comes with a number/letter code that corresponds to the nutrients inside. You can see N-P-K or nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium coordinate with their percentage found in the fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nFor example, a 20-5-10 mixture means the presence of 20% nitrogen, 5% phosphorus, and 10% potassium whereas the remaining percentage includes inert filler that aids in even application. This would be classified as a high-nitrogen fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nYou can pick from a variety of fertilizer ratios depending on what your lawn soil needs and the type of grass. Commonly Delaware soil works well with 10-10-10, 20-5-10, or 6-6-18 fertilizer mixtures.
\n\n\n\nThis type of fertilizer releases nutrients rapidly into the soil. Typically, quick-release fertilizers are water soluble and show immediate results.
\n\n\n\nTypically, you have to apply soluble fertilizers more than once for them to show effect since they dissolve quickly and plants may not take up all the available goodness.
\n\n\n\nYour Delaware lawn might need a quick-release fertilizer if you need a quick response. For instance, you’re building a new lawn and want it to green up quickly or you want the top growth to be aggressive enough to block weeds. However, soluble fertilizers aren’t always a good idea because they can encourage too much growth, too fast.
\n\n\n\nThe most suitable type of fertilizer for Delaware soils is slow-release. These fertilizers discharge all their nutrients slowly and over time, making sure your ground always has nitrogen available for growth. They are water-insoluble and dissolve slowly.
\n\n\n\nSlow-release formulas are easier to distribute evenly in the lawn, especially if you’re applying granular variety, and assist in a more paced growth. They are designed to release by weathering, water penetration, or microbial action at a rate that is consistent with the grass’s needs.
\n\n\n\nThese fertilizers are good for regular maintenance. Typically, only one application of slow-release fertilizer is enough and also proves cost-effective for many homeowners.
\n\n\n\nGrass is classified into two categories based on the climate they are adapted to:
\n\n\n\nDelaware is located in the transition zone and typically favors cool-season grasses including Kentucky Bluegrass, Tall fescue, Bentgrass, and Perennial Ryegrass. These grasses take the majority of the nutrition they need in the fall to prepare for winter and recover from summer stress. Mostly, they just need nitrogen to encourage growth and develop a nice green color.
\n\n\n\nThe only warm-season grass that can make do in Delaware is Zoysiagrass due to its hardy nature. A closer look at different grass types and their fertilization needs:
\n\n\n\nThis is a fast-growing cool-season grass that comes with unique fertilizer needs. Kentucky bluegrass is pretty prone to fertilizer burns. You need to be careful when, how, and what type of fertilizer you apply to it.
\n\n\n\nA general guide for fertilizer application on Kentucky bluegrass lawns in Delaware:
\n\n\n\nThis cool-season turfgrass thrives in transition zones. It’s a highly drought-tolerant grass that requires little maintenance.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a low-maintenance turf choice for lawns and sports fields. Thanks to its deep roots, this grass type is pretty resilient and holds up well to dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial, cool-season grass is typically used as a part of a seed mix for golf courses, home lawns, and fields. Bentgrass is a creeping grass that develops fine blades and is considered a high-maintenance grass type. It is susceptible to nutrient deficiencies too.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/person-sreading-fertilizer.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nWho doesn’t like a green, thick lawn? But you need to consider the impact of your lawn management practices on the environment. This includes water waste, chemical pollution, emissions from the production of synthetic herbicides, and more.
\n\n\n\nSeveral studies and research show that a mindful approach to lawn fertilization can reduce the dangers of climate change. A properly maintained lawn does not require immediate remedies and saves you from using harsh, environmentally-unfriendly products to bring it back to life.
\n\n\n\nFollow these tips to fertilize your lawn more responsibly and minimize nutrient loss:
\n\n\n\nKeeping track of the right time, fertilizer type, ratio, application technique, and quantity can be too much. Don’t worry, our local pros in Delaware are fully qualified and equipped to discuss, advise, and fertilize your lawn for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: BanksPhotos / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"When to Fertilize Your Lawn in Delaware","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/1789c/fertilize-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/107df/fertilize-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/293e9/fertilize-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/f2cbb/fertilize-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/1789c/fertilize-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/c26c2/fertilize-grass.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/1dd6e/fertilize-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/67b76/fertilize-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/8df11/fertilize-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/98a65/fertilize-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/1dd6e/fertilize-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/a6faba517709b798718d1b89c658e296/3cc96/fertilize-grass.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"When to Fertilize Your Lawn in Delaware | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Timing is important when fertilizing your lawn. Learn the best time to fertilize your lawn in Delaware and unlock its full potential."}}},{"node":{"id":"82287625-70fa-5c27-b61e-e64336bc2a7f","slug":"best-perennials-indiana","path":"/lawn-care/indiana/best-perennials-indiana/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"A native of Ohio, Whitney Lehnecker is a career journalist and newspaper designer. She now lives in Central Florida with her husband and two pups, Goose and Bindi.","name":"Whitney Lehnecker","id":"a3d49656-3773-5908-9fcf-716640f40233","path":"/author/whitney-lehnecker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6f7e31a20c84b10fb9f62021b69489e7?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"56b98e9e-58bf-5d5f-913a-e0d4c4ed16c4","name":"Indiana","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/indiana/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 22nd, 2023","excerpt":"Perennials are a great way to add a yearly burst of color to any landscape, and in our temperate climate, there are many great ones to choose from. These 12 great perennials for your Indiana landscape are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive here without a bunch of maintenance. In this article: 1. Black-Eyed […]
\n","content":"\nPerennials are a great way to add a yearly burst of color to any landscape, and in our temperate climate, there are many great ones to choose from. These 12 great perennials for your Indiana landscape are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive here without a bunch of maintenance.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bernard Spragg / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan, also called yellow coneflower, is a striking flower because of the contrast between the dark button center and the brilliant yellow petals. For this reason, it’s popular in virtually every transition zone in the country. The Black-eyed Susan takes its time blooming, but once it does, it blooms for months. It looks stunning either on its own or combined with its purple counterpart. A bonus: bees, butterflies, and songbirds adore it.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is easy to care for, adapts to a wide variety of conditions and stands up well to heat, drought, and cold. In short, it’s beautiful and tough.
\n\n\n\n![\"Gaint](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Giant-Sunflower-Helianthus-Giganteus-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe deSousa / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, the giant sunflower is a real showstopper that grows up to 12 feet. This plant is easy to take care of and tolerates dry weather. Additionally, it’s a magnet for bees and a host for various butterfly species. Plus, its seeds are a common snack for birds.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be careful, because the giant sunflower is severely toxic to pets and various animals. It has some toxic effects on humans, too, if ingested.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Shasta-Daisy-Leucanthemum-×-Superbum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Carl Lewis / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe Shasta daisy is a lovely white daisy with a yellow center that blooms from mid-summer to early fall and goes dormant thereafter. It blooms better in full sun but can also withstand partial shade, and it needs about an inch of water per week.
\n\n\n\nAs far as its effect on wildlife, butterflies love the Shasta daisy, and deer do not. In fact, deer may be repelled by it.
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans, toxic to pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wood-Lily-Lilium-Philadelphicum-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe wood lily sits on a 1 to 4-foot stalk and is topped by skyward-facing cup-shaped, reddish-orange flowers. There are usually one to four flowers per plant.
\n\n\n\nThe showy blossoms make it a stunning addition to any landscape. The wood lily is great for attracting wildlife like hummingbirds, butterflies, and even rabbits.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Butterfly-Milkweed-Symphyotrichum-Novae-Angliae-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nWhat makes butterfly milkweed striking is its clusters of bright flowers atop its short stalk. It grows wild in the prairies and grasslands of the Midwest and Great Plains. Its hardy, tough nature means that it can survive in an array of climates and conditions, which is why it can be found from the New England states to the Southeast and even the desert of the Southwest U.S.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/New-England-Aster-Symphyotrichum-Novae-Angliae-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe charming New England aster produces delicate, purple petals that add color and texture to any landscape. This plant also feeds wildlife like bees and butterflies, and it’s a great cut flower for arrangements. If you’re in the market for low-maintenance plant options, New England aster is great because it doesn’t need much water.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-Coneflower-Echinacea-purpurea-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhere the wood lily forms a skyward-soaring cup, the purple coneflower has an odd downward-facing cone that gives it the appearance of a brightly colored badminton shuttlecock or birdie. Its pink-purple flowers are not only stunning to look at, but they attract wildlife such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and songbirds.
\n\n\n\nThe only ding against the purple coneflower is that it is susceptible to diseases, so it’s not as carefree and easy as some other plants on this list..
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter O’Connor / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nYarrow blooms from late spring to mid-fall, producing clusters of small, white, feathery flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It will flower even longer if you deadhead faded flowers.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also a double threat in your garden: Not only is it pretty, but it’s a highly aromatic plant that gives your garden an amazing fragrance.
\n\n\n\nYarrow requires frequent watering initially, but once established, it can survive with half an inch of watering a week. This plant isn’t bullet-proof, though. Yarrow is susceptible to botrytis mold and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and just as wide
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, clay, loam, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans, toxic to pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cardinal-Flower-Lobelia-cardinalis-3.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: ALAN SCHMIERER / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nThe cardinal flower is named for the bright red robes worn by Roman Catholic cardinals, so it’s no coincidence that the most striking feature of this plant is its vibrant red petals. Found throughout the United States and as far north as Canada and all the way down to Mexico, it loves moist soils, including wet woodlands, streambanks, swamps and marshy areas. This makes it perfect for a rain garden.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it needs frequent watering, cardinal flower is otherwise easy to care for. Plus, butterflies like to snack on the flower’s nectar.
\n\n\n\n![\"Different](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-Phlox-Phlox-Paniculata-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bff / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nGarden phlox is a moderately tall perennial that grows wild in forests, woodlands, prairies, and other natural habitats. It sprouts pink, purple, or white clusters atop 3 to 4-foot stems and makes any landscape a head-turner.
\n\n\n\nThe only downside to garden phlox is that it is vulnerable to insect damage and diseases, including powdery mildew, so it needs some attention.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Lance-Leaved-Coreopsis-Coreopsis-Lanceolata-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William L. Farr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLance-leaved coreopsis, also called tickseed, is a low-maintenance plant that bathes your yard in hues of brilliant yellow. It grows up to three feet tall, and its large flowers can reach 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
\n\n\n\nLike many of the other plants on this list, lance-leaved coreopsis is tough. It does fine in dry, hot, and humid weather. The plant itself is a perennial that stays green for a long time, although the flowers have a relatively short duration.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wild-Bergamot-Monarda-Fistulosa-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you like showy, fragrant flowers, you’re in for a treat. Wild bergamot is an atypical pink, purple, or white perennial in the bee balm family that smells like a mix of mint and oregano. Because it’s a wildflower, wild bergamot doesn’t take too much care for it to grow well in your yard. Moreover, it attracts various bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nWhile annual plants live for one season, perennial plants grow year after year. However, annuals are known for their vibrant colors, and some of them self-seed.
It’s best to plant perennials in fall or spring, but you can plant them at any time of the year before the ground freezes.
Perennials are popular additions to most gardens because they have the dual benefit of being beautiful and, well, perennial; they return year after year. Most of them are pretty hardy as well. They thrive in a variety of pretty tough conditions and climates, so they certainly do well in the temperate climate of Indiana.
\n\n\n\nBut choosing the right plants is only the first step to creating a beautiful yard. You also need to care for it. If you’d like some help, Wikilawn’s lawn care pros are available to do the dirty work for you. Get a quote here.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo By: PixaBay
\n","title":"12 Great Perennials for Your Indiana Landscape","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/1789c/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/107df/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.jpg 320w,\n/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/293e9/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.jpg 500w,\n/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/f2cbb/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.jpg 800w,\n/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/1789c/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.jpg 960w,\n/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/c26c2/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/1dd6e/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/67b76/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.webp 320w,\n/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/8df11/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.webp 500w,\n/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/98a65/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.webp 800w,\n/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/1dd6e/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.webp 960w,\n/static/a01e309f99eb940019e9fa504bb8b21e/3cc96/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Indiana-Landscape.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"12 Great Perennials for Your Indiana Landscape | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Perennials turn a hum-drum yard beautiful, and they return year after year, so you won’t invest countless hours planting flowers every spring."}}},{"node":{"id":"17b1c722-3deb-5849-8754-404243fe183c","slug":"worst-backyard-pests","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/worst-backyard-pests/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"dc593a91-bb7f-5961-b8a5-96bfdf119898","name":"Tampa","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/tampa/"}],"date":"July 30th, 2019","excerpt":"Taking the time now to learn about the worst backyard pests in Tampa will pay off if you happen to run across any in your yard. Here are some of the most common garden pests and suggestions for getting rid of them.
\n","content":"\nAfter working so hard to make your yard and garden perfect, you deserve to enjoy it. Taking the time now to learn about the worst backyard pests in Tampa will pay off if you happen to run across any in your yard. Here are some of the most common garden pests and suggestions for getting rid of them.
\n\n\n\nCockroaches are generally about 1.5 inches long and love the humidity in Tampa. You’ll find them in your garden, trees, under your sink, in your bathroom, behind the dishwasher, and anywhere there’s moisture. The females will lay eggs anywhere they can find food and water. Avoid leaving pet food out and, to the extent possible, deprive them of the moist, shady outdoor areas in which they thrive, such as stacks of wood, piles of leaves or hollow tree stumps.
\n\n\n\nThere are many species of cockroaches in Florida. Some fly, some don’t. Some seek shelter in homes, others don’t. The giant of them all is the Florida woods cockroach, also known as the palmetto bug. One member of the species was plucked from the obscurity of a woodpile in Apopka, Fla., and won the World Cockroach Contest in 1986. Its length: 2.49 inches. Its name: Longfellow. Its one saving grace: Like other palmetto bugs, it prefers to live outdoors.
\n\n\n\nCockroaches rarely bite, but many carry bacteria such as salmonella which can contaminate food. Their waste and sheddings can trigger attacks in people with asthma. Boric acid dust and common insecticides help control them, but it’s best to call an exterminator for any substantial infestation. Even a professional won’t be able to totally rid your yard or house of these worst backyard pests in Tampa.
\n\n\n\nThe tiny mouths of these arthropods allow them to make holes in many of your plants. Getting rid of spider mites can be difficult. Try applying a half and half mixture of water and alcohol. Make sure the alcohol is isopropyl, which is toxic to insects but shouldn’t hurt your plants. If the mites are still making your garden and lawn into their home, you may have to research chemical products.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/K3UXOYZ81AKeXZfwZwO9qG3NJbV6eczq6Hgv2I8vQviswAkGhD5gri16byFvUB97GDqnN5mFh0wtB49_r9WmNnTXr4IQyKonStT6LhVlnBQqLkS_bfA4Fk92T3QCzOafsNoWfGRZ\")
Tropical sod webworms can do a lot of damage. For such tiny creatures, they can have a big impact on your yard. These caterpillars may be hard to spot, as they can turn as green as the grass they eat. If one part of your lawn has brown patches and is shorter than the rest, bend down and inspect it closely to see whether your lawn is infested.
\n\n\n\nThe adults are annoying triangular-shaped moths that don’t do much damage. But they lay eggs in the lawn, and the hatching larvae feed on the grass blades. To get rid of these tiny troublemakers, try sprinkling soapy water on the lawn. This will usually draw the critters out, so you can remove them. But if you notice a large infestation, you’ll have to resort to an insecticide. Spinosad is an organic product that controls the tropical sod webworm, without hurting the grass or beneficial bugs.
\n\n\n\nThese gray oval bugs can destroy your plants quickly. Their dusty and grainy look is actually a waxy protective coat. Since they may be hard to spot, keep an eye out for dirty or yellow patches on your plants. Your plants looking like they have fur or lint on them may be another sign mealybugs have taken up residence.
\n\n\n\nTo get rid of them, spray the plants with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Another approach is to deter them their natural predators. Tiny wasps, “mealybug destroyer” ladybugs and lacewings will make a quick meal of the mealy bugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Pulm8_tsekxSdH-8nbUZKxQa8LVaiXskw2AXgxpMwqfdMLBGFwrh8GahZ69xx7qX5b2SIY4pBbv64tPhtQEcrv-hbsQqzEogBZUnc__0-qCMmLfLmCfWT6WweCcCdSlUjBK7kSqO\")
Opossums are prevalent in Florida. If they can get ahold of anything in your garden, they will. To keep them away, trim the fruit trees where the critters like to snack. You can also block off and cover individual plants and areas you want to protect. Chemical deterrents for opossums are also available if you ‘re at your wits end with these pests.
\n\n\n\nWhile opossums are a nuisance, they can also be beneficial. Besides feasting on your citrus trees, they eat ticks, mice, roaches, rats and snakes. They’re actually immune to rattlesnake venom. Opossums are also the only marsupial in North America and one of the oldest critters on earth.
\n\n\n\nYou may not immediately think of housepets such as cats or dogs as garden pests, but they can ruin a lawn and garden faster than an opossum. Cats and dogs are naturally curious and like to chew on plants and grass. Cats like to lay and roll in the grass and newly seeded dirt. Dogs love to dig. The best way to keep your pets from chewing on your grass and garden plants is by training them to use a designated area of the yard. You can also try a homemade solution which has garlic, hot pepper or soapy water. Another tip is to water the area your yard where the dog goes potty. This will help dilute the urine, which can kill the grass.
\n\n\n\nWith the right knowledge and effort, you can protect your home from the worst backyard pests in Tampa. Once your garden is safe, you’ll have more time to enjoy relaxing in it, than working on it.
\n\n\n\n
Want to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Tampa? Visit our Tampa Lawn Care page.
Arkansas offers mountainous trails, serene lakes, running rivers, and fertile valleys. Located south of Missouri with the Mississippi River running the length of its western border, the Natural State is home to seven national parks. The diverse state has all the natural charm you could ever dream of. Invite some local nature into your landscape […]
\n","content":"\nArkansas offers mountainous trails, serene lakes, running rivers, and fertile valleys. Located south of Missouri with the Mississippi River running the length of its western border, the Natural State is home to seven national parks. The diverse state has all the natural charm you could ever dream of. Invite some local nature into your landscape by filling your yard with some of the best native plants for Arkansas.
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer many landscaping benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nNative plants help promote a healthier Arkansas ecosystem. Check out these 20 native plants to help you plan your natural landscape.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/American-Beautyberry-Callicarpa-Americana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry is a large deciduous shrub that works well in woodland gardens, natural areas, and as an understory shrub in dappled shade. Mature branches arch toward the ground, growing denser with additional sunlight. A member of the mint family, this shrub produces bright purple fruits that attract birds and other wildlife.
\n\n\n\nBeautyberry has small lavender flowers and fuzzy, light green leaves. The shrub blooms from spring to summer before maturing to fruits in September. Beautyberry is drought tolerant and adapts well to most soils but prefers well-drained, rich, organic soil. It grows well throughout Arkansas but is found less frequently in the upper Ozark counties.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil but tolerates acidic, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; prefers a regular watering schedule and moist roots
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; cooked fruit can be made into jelly
\n\n\n\nArkansas beardtongue is an herbaceous perennial with showy white or pink tubular flowers that bloom in the spring. Reaching heights up to 2 feet, slender stems ascend with paired dark green oblong leaves. The herbaceous flower grows well in the mountainous Interior Highland and Ozark regions encompassing northwest Arkansas and throughout most of Arkansas, except the Delta and coastal plains regions.
\n\n\n\nLike most beardtongues, Arkansas beardtongue grows best in full sun and prefers well-drained soils. Plant this attractive herb in garden beds to form flowering colonies. The Arkansas native is especially beneficial to local bees and pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 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: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, moist to dry loamy soils; tolerates well-drained clay soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water 1 inch per week in the summer
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; poisonous to animals, including horses and poultry, in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"Azalea](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/azaleas-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nAzaleas are the most common landscape shrub in Arkansas, leading some to consider it the state shrub. They are a family of flowering shrubs with several deciduous species native to Arkansas. Vibrant spring blooms attract pollinating insects, while the dried stalks provide shelter for songbirds in the winter.
\n\n\n\nAzaleas prefer dappled shade and thrive in the well-drained, rich, moisture-retaining soils found in the southern two-thirds of the state. Plant these beautiful blooms as part of mass plantings, woodland gardens, mixed borders, and pollinator gardens. The three most common azaleas native to Arkansas include:
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-12 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, rich, humusy, acidic, moisture-retentive soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: About 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/brown-eyed-susan-23441281362806Ay7C.jpg\")
Photo Credit : PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nBrown-eyed Susan is the only naturally occurring species of Rudbeckia in Arkansas, growing across the Ozark, Valley, and Ouachita Mountain regions. Like its cousin, black-eyed Susan, it is recognizable for its bright gold petals and dark brown centers. The herbaceous wildflower is deer-resistant and taller, with a more sparse growth habit than its cousin. It makes a great addition to naturalized home landscapes and rain gardens.
\n\n\n\nTransplanted flowers or sewn seeds grow well in garden beds and containers. Brown-eyed Susan flowers grow atop clumping, three-lobed leaves. They love full sun and well-drained, moist soil. The sunny blooms are important to Arkansas butterfly conservation efforts, attracting birds and local pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-5 feet tall and 1.5-2.5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Biennial or short-lived perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, moist to wet, rich soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; some humans have an allergy to daisies
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bluestar-Amsonia-tabernaemontana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nBluestar, also known as Hubricht’s bluestar and threadleaf bluestar, is native to central Arkansas and grows naturally in the Ouachita Mountain range. It is a clumping, herbaceous perennial with small lavender, star-shaped flowers that bloom in spring amongst grass-like leaves.
\n\n\n\nThe low-maintenance ornamental plant is popular in home landscapes thanks to its narrow, bright green foliage that lasts through summer and turns golden yellow in the fall. Bluestar makes a great addition to rock gardens, woodland areas, and mass flower bed plantings. It is an attractive pollinator plant and deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and up to 4 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: Adaptable; prefers well-drained average to medium-weight soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: About 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; milky sap irritates humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is a native species of milkweed and is extremely important to healthy Arkansas landscapes. It is an attractive flowering plant and a nectar source for bees and pollinators and a host plant for caterpillars, including the Monarch butterfly and Unexpected Tiger moth. There are around 14 native species of milkweed that grow throughout Arkansas and all are part of the Arkansas Monarch Conservation Partnership.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed produces bright orange or yellow flowers from summer to fall. The attractive plant is hardy and loves full sun. It tolerates most soils but prefers sandy well-draining soil and is moderately drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-4 feet tall and less than 1 foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial though some species are annuals
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers dry, sandy soil or gravel
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Semi drought-tolerant; prefers to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; milky sap irritates humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/32128063046_31c9eb4bef_c-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: DougMcGrady / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nEarly buttercup is an herbaceous winter perennial growing statewide throughout Arkansas. Glossy yellow flowers bloom in early March among three-lobed leaves. It is one of 17 species of buttercup growing throughout the Natural State. The flowering herb adapts to a range of soils and habitats, including shady woods, sunny grasslands, and home lawns.
\n\n\n\nEarly buttercup makes a great green addition to your winter landscape. It grows well in garden beds and pollinator gardens. However, be mindful of planting in shaded areas where rapid self-seeding and colonization occur. The glossy blooms attract numerous pollinators, game birds, and small mammals.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-12 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers rich, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; one inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; minor skin irritation lasting minutes if touched; low toxicity if ingested
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nEastern redbud is a small deciduous tree with a dense canopy growing statewide. It produces small clusters of showy pink flowers over its bare branches in spring. Blooms last for two to three weeks before giving way to heart-shaped dark green leaves that turn golden in the fall.
\n\n\n\nEastern redbud works well as shrub borders and fringe trees. Those low-maintenance cultivars require little pruning and attract many birds and pollinators. They have a short trunk and rounded crown of spreading branches. Unfortunately, these beautiful trees have a short lifespan of around 35-40 years.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 30 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: About 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; poisonous to dogs and cats
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Maianthemum_racemosum_10782.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Walter Seigmund / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nLike traditional Solomon’s Seal, false Solomon’s seal is a member of the lily family. It occurs naturally in northwestern Arkansas and Crowley’s Ridge. It is an excellent shade plant with arching stems that produces large leaves and clusters of tiny white flowers in late spring followed by vibrant red berries in June.
\n\n\n\nFalse Solomon’s seal attracts birds and small mammals. Unlike its cousin variegated Solomon’s seal, this variety is not deer-resistant. Plant the herbaceous perennial alone, away from competition in a shaded garden area or on the north side of your Arkansas landscape. It spreads quickly, leading some gardeners to consider it an aggressive species.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Arching stems reach up to 4 feet long
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers deep, moist, rich, acidic soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Florida-Anise-Illicium-floridanum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ted Bodner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nPurple anise, or the Florida anise tree, is actually an evergreen shrub with small star-shaped purple to red flowers. Its skinny branches droop to the ground, giving the shrub a rounded shape while its flowers bloom in spring with fruits following from late summer to fall. The fruits of the Florida anise tree give off a distinct licorice odor when crushed like its cousin star anise. The evergreen shrub grows throughout Arkansas and is most commonly found near streams, lakes, and ravines.
\n\n\n\nFlorida anise has a dense growth pattern, making it ideal for windbreaks and hedgerows. They grow well in partial shade but prefer full sun and respond well to pruning. They love rich soil and moisture but adapt to most conditions. The purple anise is winter hardy to minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit and its foliage is poisonous, making it resistant to insects and deer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 6-10 feet 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: Prefers rich, moist soil, clay, sand, or loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of rainfall or water per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic; foliage is poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Southern-Lady-Fern-Athyrium-filix-femina.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLady fern is a medium-sized fern growing throughout Arkansas, North America, and even Alaska and Canada. It loves shaded woods and swampy regions but adapts to most soils and climates. Lady fern has an attractive and delicate appearance, with short leaflets running the lengths of divided, wispy fronds.
\n\n\n\nLady fern is low-maintenance and extremely cold hardy, making it a great choice for northern Arkansas landscapes. It makes a great addition to shade gardens and natural landscapes with moist soil. The slow-growing perennial will go dormant during times of drought and is easily damaged by wind or animals.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb, fern
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moist, humus-rich soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Semi drought-tolerant once established; prefers regular watering and evenly moist soil, never soggy
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; raw plant is poisonous to humans and animals in large quantities; cooked plant is used as a food source in some cultures
\n\n\n\nNet-leaf leather-flower is another member of the native Arkansas buttercup family. This herbaceous vine grows in north-central and southwestern Arkansas, preferring dry, sandy, or rocky soils. Mature specimens can produce multiple vines with bright green leaf pairs. Vines grow upright with supports like trellises or trees but will crawl across and over other plants, anchoring themselves to grow upright.
\n\n\n\nNet-leaf leather-flower produces unique, lavender, bell-shaped blooms in the spring that resemble upside-down cups. The attractive vine grows to 12 feet tall and makes a great addition to any Arkansas garden with partial shade and moist soil. Avoid tying the delicate branches. Instead, plant specimens near trellises, fences, arbors, large shrubs, or small trees.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 12 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; grows well in any soil with average moisture and partial shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; water 1 inch per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; poisonous to humans and animals but rarely consumed
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/bloem-echinacea-purpurea-flora.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nPurple coneflower is a member of the Arkansas Monarch’s conservation efforts and is important to Arkansas’ healthy ecosystem. The attractive flowering herb grows throughout the state except for the West Gulf Coastal and Mississippi Plains. Purple coneflower makes a great addition to rock gardens, flower beds, containers, and pollinator gardens.
\n\n\n\nThe wild herb produces showy blooms with slender, pinkish-purple petals around large, round orange-brown centers. Erect stems grow to heights of three feet among large, serrated bright green leaves. Purple coneflower tolerates mild drought conditions, heat, and a variety of soil conditions. It attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, and like bluestar and brown-eyed Susan, is deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 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: Well-drained, rich soil or sand
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8695231251_e54600299a_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: manuel m. v. / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Red buckeye, or scarlet buckeye, is a large shrub or small tree growing throughout Arkansas except for the Western Ozarks and the banks of the Mississippi River. In nature, it is an understory or mixed woodland tree that loves deep, well-drained soils and full sun.
\n\n\n\nTubular red flowers attract hummingbirds and pollinators in the spring, while attractive flaky bark adds visual interest. It has a rounded top and a broad growth pattern. The small tree is part of the Arkansas Monarch’s conservation efforts. Plant red buckeyes anywhere that is too small for a larger tree. When choosing an area for planting, keep in mind that these specimens produce poisonous seeds resembling reddish-brown acorns that drop to the ground in the fall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub, tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-40 feet tall; usually 20 feet tall in Arkansas
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers deep, acidic, well-drained sand, clay, loam, or limestone
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Moderate toxicity; seeds are poisonous to humans and animals, including horses and livestock; often used to make soap
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Glandularia_canadensis_1327432220.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Carl Lewis / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nRose vervain is another important pollinator for Arkansas, attracting local bees and butterflies. It is a creeping, low-growing herb that produces clusters of fragrant pink, five-petaled flowers. Rose vervain grows naturally throughout Arkansas except for the areas encompassing the Mississippi Plain.
\n\n\n\nThe perennial grows best in partial shade. It requires weekly watering during the dry summer months or it will lose its leaves. Plant rose vervain in borders, rock gardens, and containers. The showy herb also makes an attractive groundcover.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 10 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial; sometimes annual during harsh winters in northern Arkansas
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers poor, acidic, sandy, rocky, moist, well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/18497136828_00d9aff016_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: F. D. Richards / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nRoughleaf dogwood is a small tree or large shrub with a clumping growth habit. Growing statewide except for the Coastal Plain, this fragrant tree blooms creamy yellow flowers in clusters alongside hard, white fruit.
\n\n\n\nRoughleaf dogwood gets its name from its rough leaf surfaces. The tree adapts to most light conditions and soils but grows more densely in full sunlight. It makes a great addition to property barriers, natural areas, stream banks for erosion control, and sunny patio areas. It is one of five Arkansas dogwoods.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 20 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: Adaptable; calcareous, acidic, alkaline, limestone, sand, sand-loam, medium loam, clay loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3779976362_ac532eef04_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schluz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nSummersweet is an attractive landscape shrub producing visual interest no matter the season. The deciduous perennial produces shiny green leaves in the spring, spiky pink or white flowers in the summer, yellow leaves in the fall, and delicate seed capsules that attract birds and small mammals in the winter.
\n\n\n\nSummersweet grows statewide. It has an open growth pattern and soft texture. The fragrant shrub prefers partial shade and makes a great addition to pollinator gardens, natural landscapes, and mixed borders.
\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: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers acidic, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week; do not let the soil dry out completely
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/36415538275_740f5f1f45_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Plant Image Library / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nSweetbay magnolia is a wide-growing semi-evergreen tree that reaches heights of 60 feet in Arkansas. The slow-growing tree has no natural pest or disease enemies and responds well to pruning after its active growing season before winter dormancy. It makes a great patio or specimen tree.
\n\n\n\nSweetbay magnolia produces white, lemon-scented flowers from summer through fall, and its vibrant red seeds attract songbirds and small mammals. The medium-sized tree has medium green, glossy leaves. In the southern half of Arkansas, sweetbay magnolia retains its leaves. However, in the colder cities of northern Arkansas, it will lose its leaves in the winter.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-50 feet tall and 15-25 feet wide; trunk up to 3 feet in diameter
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; rich, moist, acidic, sand, sand-loam, medium loam, clay loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water or rainfall per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Calycanthus_floridus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: GFDL&CC / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nSweetshrub, also known as Carolina allspice, is a large deciduous shrub. It has a rounded growth pattern with glossy, leathery, dark green leaves. Like sweetbay magnolia, specimens are very pest and disease-resistant.
\n\n\n\nThe fragrant shrub is tall with an open and upright growth habit. It produces fragrant maroon flowers in the spring, followed by dry fruit. Because of its pleasant strawberry-like fragrance, most homeowners plant sweetshrub near patios or entryways.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-9 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: Rich, semi-moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of rainfall or water per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity; seed pods are poisonous if consumed in large quantities
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3269835134_006580b0b3_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Frank Mayfield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall tickseed is a member of the aster or sunflower family and an important member of Arkansas’ butterfly conservation efforts. It grows naturally throughout most of Arkansas, with the exception of the Mississippi and West Gulf Coastal Plains. The herbaceous perennial blooms daisy-shaped, yellow flowers with brown-orange centers from spring to summer.
\n\n\n\nTickseed is drought tolerant and reseeds itself. Its bright blooms attract butterflies and native pollinators. Tall tickseed makes a great addition to flower beds, butterfly gardens, and naturalized areas as it is deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers moist, well-drained chalk, soil, sand, loam, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; 1 inch of rainfall or water per week
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nYour yard has its own unique microclimate, and all native plants have specific needs. Not all native plants will grow well in your yard. Be sure to select plants suitable for the soil, sun exposure, and watering capabilities of your landscape.
\n\n\n\nArkansas sits in USDA Hardiness Zones 6a to 8a, indicating the coldest annual temperature is -10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit in the northernmost portion of the state. The majority of the Natural State falls within zones 7a and 7b. Arkansas native plants are cold-hardy to the minimum temperature in the hardiness zones. Keep your zone in mind when selecting non-native plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nFall is the best time to plant trees and shrubs. Aim to plant native shrubs and trees in November. Wait until the last chance of frost in spring to plant native flowers and herbs. Plant your new spring landscape after April 15 in most of the state.
Arkansas’ diverse landscape is home to four dominant soil regions:
1. Regolith, sedimentary rock, gravel, and hard, stiff soils make up the Ozark Plateau region in northern Arkansas.
2. Well-drained, loose, rich, fertile clay soils make up the Mississippi River Alluvial Plain on the western one-third of the state.
3. Hard rock and impenetrable soils make up the Arkansas River Valley and Ouachita Mountain regions of central Arkansas.
4. Sand, silt, stiff clay, loess, and gravel make up the West Gulf Coastal Plain in the southern one-third of the Natural State.
The best way to identify your landscape’s soil type is to send a soil sample in for testing to your local University of Arkansas extension office.
Early morning or evening are the best times to water your native plants. Winds are calmer and temperatures are lower, so there is less risk of water loss from evaporation or scorching from the sun. Additionally, foliage needs time to dry before nightfall. Wet foliage can lead to disease and rot.
Chances are good you already have native plants in your yard or around your neighborhood. If you want to introduce more plants into your Arkansas landscape, be sure to source your plants ethically and never transplant them from the wild.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these resources to connect with local nurseries in your area:
\n\n\n\nFilling your yard with native plants is only one step in your landscaping design project. Be sure to maintain your new landscape by understanding your yard’s grass type and consider reducing your workload by introducing some low-maintenance landscaping ideas.
From the birthplace of Walmart to Little Rock and River Mountain, no matter where you live, you can turn over the hard work and lawn upkeep to a professional. Let WikiLawn connect you with a local landscaping pro in your area so you can spend more time exploring the great Natural State.
Main Image Credit: Redbud Tree / PublicDomainPictures
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\n","content":"\nLiving in the nation’s capital, you know that having a beautiful lawn isn’t a right but a choice. As such, it behooves you to get to know the candidates for your lawn turf so you can pick the grass that gives your yard the best chance at prospering long into the future.
\n\n\n\nHere are the leading candidates:
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe grass of choice for the White House, tall fescue is an excellent grass choice for your DC lawn. Its extensive root system gives it a high drought tolerance, it resists disease, it doesn’t require much water, and it can handle heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Most are bunching-type grasses; some have rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: 2-4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: At least 2 inches in summer
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Between 5.5 – 7.0
\n\n\n\n![\"Fine](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/nature-grass-plant-field-lawn-meadow-743848-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nIf you have a shady lawn, fine fescue is a fine choice. However, it can adapt to full and partial sun conditions and is very persistent in dry conditions and somewhat poor soils.
\n\n\n\nAre you planning on having your kids and pets run wild in the yard? Pick another grass, as fine fescue doesn’t handle foot traffic well.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Most are bunching-type grasses; some have rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: 1-2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: At least 1.5 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Between 5.5 – 7.5
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/5552536384_1bc90958b3_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ferran Pestaña / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWith its dark green color and fine to medium leaf blades, Kentucky bluegrass provides some of the prettiest lawns in the DC area. It grows well in both sun and shade and comes in numerous varieties.
\n\n\n\nHowever, growing such a pretty lawn requires a lot of maintenance. For example, Kentucky bluegrass requires a lot of water, as it’ll go dormant otherwise. If you want a low-maintenance lawn, this isn’t it.
\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 to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: 3-4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year.
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 – 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Between 6.0 – 7.0
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Levin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nA medium-textured bunching grass with deep green blades, perennial ryegrass is the most interesting grass here. Because of disease susceptibility, the University of Maryland recommends avoiding a pure perennial ryegrass lawn.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is usually used in seed mixtures because it germinates quickly, and even then, it never takes up more than 5 to 15 percent of the mixture, as it doesn’t last long due to its vulnerability to diseases.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunching-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1 – 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Between 6.0 – 7.0
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is the best grass for a shady lawn, but tall fescue and perennial ryegrass tolerate moderate shade. Kentucky bluegrass needs full sun, so avoid it.
Fine fescue is the best grass for a shady lawn, but tall fescue and perennial ryegrass tolerate moderate shade. Kentucky bluegrass needs full sun, so avoid it.
Kentucky bluegrass is a high-maintenance grass, so avoid it. Tall fescues, fine fescues, and perennial ryegrass are low-maintenance grasses, making them good choices for lawns that don’t need much TLC.
Perennial ryegrass has a low drought tolerance, so it isn’t recommended for drought-heavy areas. Tall fescues, fine fescues, and Kentucky bluegrass have moderate to high drought tolerance, so they’ll manage just fine in such areas.
Now that you know what grasses to pick, where do you go from here?
\n\n\n\nStart by adding some native plants to your yard. They’ll help the ecosystem and look good in your yard while not needing much maintenance.
\n\n\n\nYou can eliminate doing any maintenance altogether by contacting one of Wikilawn’s lawn care pros. They’ll do the dirty work for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: APK /Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"Grass Types That Thrive in Washington DC","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/1789c/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/107df/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.jpg 320w,\n/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/293e9/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.jpg 500w,\n/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/f2cbb/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.jpg 800w,\n/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/1789c/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.jpg 960w,\n/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/c26c2/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/1dd6e/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/67b76/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.webp 320w,\n/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/8df11/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.webp 500w,\n/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/98a65/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.webp 800w,\n/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/1dd6e/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.webp 960w,\n/static/9ceeb5ccb1c21b4b9c31a956836c9b5b/3cc96/Dumbarton_House_-_Washington_D.C.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Grass Types That Thrive in Washington DC | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Make your lawn worthy of being in the nation’s capital with these grasses. Learn how they handle this challenging transition zone."}}},{"node":{"id":"c0505ba7-6cf4-5229-a1c2-0fc57249861f","slug":"best-grass-types-tallahassee","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tallahassee/best-grass-types-tallahassee/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"b2c4f6ff-0472-5f66-b3a2-f18459ce21c7","name":"Tallahassee","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/tallahassee/"}],"date":"April 12th, 2023","excerpt":"Affectionately known to the locals as Tally, Tallahassee is home to over 89 miles of hiking, walking, and biking trails. The city sits in the northern Panhandle, 22 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and its sugary beaches. It has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, dry springs. The best grass types […]
\n","content":"\nAffectionately known to the locals as Tally, Tallahassee is home to over 89 miles of hiking, walking, and biking trails. The city sits in the northern Panhandle, 22 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and its sugary beaches. It has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, dry springs. The best grass types for Tallahassee thrive in the city’s hot summers and sandy, infertile soils. If you are installing a new lawn or looking to spruce up your yard, consider one of these options for your Tallahassee landscape.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses prefer growing temperatures between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. These varieties go dormant, turning brown, when soil temperatures dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. With an annual average winter temperature of 69 degrees Fahrenheit, it is no surprise that Tallahassee benefits from warm-season grass varieties.
\n\n\n\nGrass types are classified into one of two categories:
\n\n\n\nThe following warm-season grass types grow well in Tallahassee’s climatic and soil conditions:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass has a tight growing pattern with fine leaf blades. It is slow-growing and a popular, low-maintenance option for Tallahassee lawns. Cultivars require little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain green. Centipedegrass handles shade but prefers full sun like most warm-season grass varieties.
\n\n\n\nIt is a smooth, flat-bladed grass that likes to be left alone. It does not handle heavy traffic, cold, or herbicides well and is prone to pests and disease when improperly maintained or over watered. Centipedegrass has a dull light green color, making it a less visually appealing choice for some homeowners.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate; prone to ground pearls, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, and lawn caterpillars
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is the most popular turfgrass in Florida. A native to warm coastal regions, this cultivar has thick leaf blades and deep roots, making it shade and drought-tolerant. However, keep in mind that this warm-season turfgrass can struggle with the Tallahassee rain, especially in shaded yards. St. Augustinegrass is prone to fungus, like gray leaf spot, if it does not dry out in between watering sessions.
\n\n\n\nThe quick-growing turfgrass has a dense appearance, coarse texture, and blue-green color. It is easy to establish and moderately salt tolerant, but, like centipedegrass, it does not stand up well to herbicides or heavy traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, army worms, web worms, and grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf warm-season grass varieties had a Jack or Jill of all trades, Zoysiagrass would be it. It withstands anything Floridians and Mother Nature throw at it. Zoysiagrass tolerates low mow heights, heavy traffic, shade, drought, and even lower-than-average temperatures. Like centipedegrass, this warm-season variety has low fertilization requirements and grows densely, blocking out weeds with its thick leaf blades.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is an attractive turfgrass with a dense appearance and a dark green color. New cultivars have increased disease and pest resistance. Zoysia matrella and Zoysia japonica are two popular pest-resistant cultivars in Tallahassee that grow slowly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and leaf spot can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, army worms, chinch bugs, and sod webworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass is a utilitarian warm-season variety that thrives in the sandy, well-drained Tallahassee soils. It is a low-maintenance cultivar that likes to be left alone. Bahiagrass requires minimal water and fertilizer. It is less dense than other varieties and not known for being an aesthetically pleasing, decorative turfgrass. However, its deep root system persists in infertile soils, making it a splendid choice for pastures, farms, and homes without irrigation systems.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass grows quickly in full sun. It does not stand up well to heavy traffic. It has a light green color, coarse texture, and open growth pattern that forms a sparse lawn easily overtaken by weeds. Homeowners with bahiagrass lawns need to pay close attention to their annual weed maintenance plan.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Growth rate is moderate to high, so plan to mow often during the growing season
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; susceptible to dollar spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; mole crickets are sometimes a problem
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soils, does well in sandy loam
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bahiagrass is grown in the Gulf Coast and Southeastern U.S; does best in acidic soils — not the best grass if your soils are naturally alkaline; doesn’t tolerate saltwater well
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bidgee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a southern favorite and another common Florida grass that grows aggressively in full sun. Unlike other warm-season varieties, bermudagrass recovers quickly from damage and stands up to heavy foot traffic, making it a popular choice for golf courses, athletic fields, and home lawns. This hardy turfgrass ranges from coarse to fine-textured and is salt and drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nTallahassee is home to common and hybrid varieties. Common bermudagrass has a light green color and coarse texture, while hybrid cultivars have a finer texture and dark green appearance. Hybrid varieties require more maintenance than common bermudagrass, but they are dense like Zoysiagrass forming a carpet-like layer.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, army worms, and sod webworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\nNo. Sinkholes form through a combination of many factors affecting the water table, including construction, blasting, heavy loading, drought, increased rainfall, groundwater pumping, and more. Routine residential watering does not sufficiently impact the water table enough to cause sinkholes.
You should plant your grass seed in April through July. This gives the seed a full growing season before the cooler winter temperatures set in.
St. Augustinegrass is the most shade-friendly grass type for Tallahassee.
Warm-season grass varieties thrive in Tallahassee. They are suited to Florida’s Big Bend and Panhandle region and unique USDA Zone, 8b. Be sure to choose a turfgrass variety that works well for your lifestyle and your yard’s unique microclimate.
\n\n\n\nTallahassee residents are blessed by warm weather most of the year. There are numerous landscaping options available. If you are looking to spruce up your home landscape or make it more wind-resistant, check out our spring lawn care tips and hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas to create your Florida fortress of solitude for maximum relaxation.
\n\n\n\nBeat the heat and conquer Tally’s humid climate. Contact a lawn care pro in your area today to help you maintain a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Tallahassee FL Gaither House02 / Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
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![Eric Hunt](\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Callicarpa_americana_2.jpg\"){kind=link}
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