![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/BLU_yMhW80SMMI1oRONPvyLPmrRvT25vN4tePCqNjbmnM15jryrQIXtUr_Xz0gChposzndRdYhJLTLYsWz_9ybOVTck2pS4zD9wWqulRU3nW1tQZL8V9P6JwK7od8LVUTaiSkaza\")
Water is one of our most precious natural resources, that’s why many cities and counties put restrictions on lawn watering. The lawn watering restrictions in Raleigh are based on current drought conditions and often change, depending on the current weather patterns. The majority of Raleigh’s water comes from Falls Lake Reservoir in northern Wake County. […]
\n","content":"\nWater is one of our most precious natural resources, that’s why many cities and counties put restrictions on lawn watering. The lawn watering restrictions in Raleigh are based on current drought conditions and often change, depending on the current weather patterns.
\n\n\n\nThe majority of Raleigh’s water comes from Falls Lake Reservoir in northern Wake County. The water is treated at the E.M. Johnson Water Treatment Plant, which process and distributes more than 48 million gallons of water per day.
\n\n\n\nOur area has had a few years of plenty of rainfall along with two watersheds for our community. As of mid-2019, there are no watering restrictions in Wake County, but that could change if we see some of the dry conditions plaguing the southern end of the state. Check the U.S. drought map regularly to see which areas are hurting. The city will also update its website if it becomes necessary to issue restrictions.
The city encourages everyone to practice permanent conservation measures. Under these measures, lawn watering anytime is permitted, but landscapes should receive only 1 inch of water per week. These voluntary guidelines should keep the reservoir from falling to a dangerously low level:
\n\n\n\nThe city has a series of trigger points for imposing restrictions, based on the level of the Falls Lake Reservoir and the time of year. For example, if levels drop below 65 percent of capacity in June, the city will put stage 1 restrictions in place. That means you’ll only be able to water your lawn once a week on a day designated by whether your address ends in an odd or even number. If the reservoir levels should fall below 30 percent in June, stage 3 restrictions go into place. In that case, all lawn watering (even the city’s athletic fields) is off limits.
\n\n\n\nViolating the city’s water restrictions could cost you a fine of up to $500.
\n\n\n\nThe city also offers a reuse water program that treats wastewater into reclaimed or nonpotable water. This helps lower the effect of a drought for homeowners who use this water for their lawns and gardens. The reuse water is not for human, pet, or livestock consumption.
\n\n\n\nYou can get recycled water at the Neuse River Resource Recovery Facility, in Southeast Raleigh, or at the facility at Little Creek WWTP in Zebulon. The reuse water is free, but you’ll have to complete a certification training before picking it up.
\n\n\n\nTaking advantage of the city’s reuse water program is a great way to keep your lawn hydrated even during a severe drought. Cutting down on your lawn size and choosing to xeriscape is another way to decrease your water consumption. Remember, in times of drought, you can do without.
Interested in more information about gardening or lawn care in Raleigh? Visit our Raleigh, N.C., lawn care page.
\n","title":"Raleigh, NC Watering Restrictions","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5041128084606346,"src":"/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/1789c/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/107df/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 320w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/293e9/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 500w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/f2cbb/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 800w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/1789c/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 960w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/356ef/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/1dd6e/sprinkler-pixabay.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/67b76/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 320w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/8df11/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 500w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/98a65/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 800w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/1dd6e/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 960w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/93f70/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Raleigh, NC Watering Restrictions | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"955faa8e-0da7-5d65-867f-65e3a3f4cd74","slug":"worst-backyard-pests-charlotte-nc","path":"/lawn-care/nc/charlotte/worst-backyard-pests-charlotte-nc/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"afc750c6-fc25-5d3b-8b8a-77aa8db4c3fb","name":"Charlotte","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/charlotte/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"July 30th, 2019","excerpt":"The things that make Charlotte a beautiful place to live — short, mild winters and long months of hot, humid weather — make it a haven for insects. Here are the worst ones and what to do about them.
\n","content":"\nThe things that make Charlotte a beautiful place to live — short, mild winters and long months of hot, humid weather — make it a haven for insects. If you haven’t encountered any of these pesky interlopers yet, chances are you will at some point. Here’s a list of the worst backyard pests in Charlotte, N.C., and how to deal with them.
\n\n\n\nThese little suckers attach themselves to the undersides of the leaves of herbaceous and woody plants and suck the life out of them. The easiest way to detect aphids is to examine the bottoms of leaves from time to time. If you see a plant looking unusually wilted or developing strangely shaped or colored new leaves, the aphids have invaded. It’s possible to treat aphids without chemicals, by crushing them, spraying them with water from a hose, or treating them with neem oil.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll first see these pests gathering in late spring, forming small bags that resemble upside-down ice cream cones. Conifers are the most susceptible trees. The sooner you notice them, the better. You can treat with a biological, nontoxic pesticide, Bacillus thuringiensis, or BT, but only when the worms are young and feeding. Spinosad is your next line of defense, effective on the adult worms and also low in toxicity. Whatever you do, don’t ignore the problem, because it will only get worse the following year.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_gfirmzWi6t0nx5-2kpUgsrgLUbSTri7lPAbERHMSOpoxC6I1fpWrG0fSZ-G3zfLiBoLJsqdwtQKDL91eizRApL2hpt-wTubVRzySXRcMDMvtGyadKJA6haLiOaKsHJJcbXJ-M0b\")
Nothing ruins a good time in the yard faster than fire ants. These inconsiderate invaders do great damage to the lawn and deliver nasty bites that you won’t soon forget. There are many control methods, from treating mounds with boiling water to drenching them with insecticide. One of the most effective techniques is the two-step method, which can reduce the population by 80 to 90 percent. This involves spreading a bait over your yard in the early part of fall. The ants will take this back to their nest where it will kill the queen. The second step involves treating individual mounds with a granule or dust insecticide.
\n\n\n\nWhile mosquitoes don’t do any damage to the lawn, they can ruin a backyard party. They’re also the deadliest creature on the planet! The best way to take care of this pest is to prevent them from breeding in the first place. Make sure there is absolutely no standing water anywhere in the yard. If you have a birdbath, replace the water every few days, and if you have a pond or water feature, treat it with non-toxic mosquito dunks every couple of weeks.
\n\n\n\nPlanting fragrant plants like mint, lavender, geraniums. and rosemary around decks and patios can help to repel these bloodsuckers. If all else fails, installing oscillating deck fans can help to at least keep these slow-flying pests at bay.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/8-cnXREv09d7KZnxV_WpM4iROBuk1IaRkCzYF-hehaPeXl15-Re-j9oO5bkUIdF6jDjmSalXZxthOUIDPV7vqq7WAIOai7shYz5OzNysxIZ5RuQ3GdD_mE5xyldYhOV3hGJwhOg4\")
When you begin to see inexplicable brown spots on an otherwise healthy lawn, you can be almost certain that a grub is to blame. If you suspect you have a grub issue, try to lift up a piece of affected turf. If it rolls up and seems to lack roots, then you know you have grubs. To avoid using chemicals on your lawn, use milky spore, nematodes, or neem oil to kill the grubs in the soil. Remember, the healthier your lawn is, the more difficult it is for grubs to make a dent in it. Mow consistently and make sure you irrigate the right amount.
\n\n\n\nNo matter what pests you’re dealing with, prevention and early detection are the best defenses you can mount against them. Treating an all-out infestation will always be more difficult and time-consuming. So keep your eyes open and do your best to defeat the worst pests before they become problematic.
\n\n\n\nWant to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Charlotte? Visit our Charlotte Lawn Care page.
\n\n\n\nJay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.
When spring arrives in Durham, you may be thinking about visiting a park or going on a hike to explore the city’s breathtaking nature. But if you want your lawn to be breathtaking as well, you need to put in the time early and know what you’re doing. We’ve got you covered. Here are 11 […]
\n","content":"\nWhen spring arrives in Durham, you may be thinking about visiting a park or going on a hike to explore the city’s breathtaking nature. But if you want your lawn to be breathtaking as well, you need to put in the time early and know what you’re doing.
\n\n\n\nWe’ve got you covered. Here are 11 tips for caring for your Durham lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Gasoline](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pouring-gasoline-in-lawn-mower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYour lawn equipment needs to function well. Hopefully, you did a little maintenance before storing it for the winter. As spring emerges, you’ll want to take it out and make sure it’s still in good working order.
\n\n\n\nEach of your pieces of lawn equipment should come with a manual that outlines the specific jobs you need to do and how often to do them.
\n\n\n\nBut to give you a rough idea of the lawn mower maintenance that will be needed, we’ve put together lists of common lawn mower maintenance tasks.
\n\n\n\nHere are typical maintenance jobs for a gas lawn mower (these may not apply to your machine; check your manual for specific instructions):
\n\n\n\n| Gas Lawn Mower Maintenance Job | Estimated Job Frequency (varies based on type) |
| Engine oil change | Either every 20 to 50 hours or once per season, whichever is first; after roughly the first 5 hours for new lawn mowers |
| Fuel change | Fuel goes bad within 30 days unless you add stabilizer |
| Sharpening and balancing | Every 20 to 25 hours of use time |
| Spark plug replacement | Once a season or every 25 hours of use time, whichever is first |
| Cleaning air fillers | At least every 10 uses, possibly more depending on your environment |
| Changing air fillers | Every month to every year, depending on your environment and usage |
| Lubricating the wheels | Once a month to twice every season, depending on usage |
Here are typical maintenance jobs for a battery lawn mower (once again, these may not apply to your machine; check your manual for specific instructions):
\n\n\n\n| Battery Lawn Mower Maintenance Job | Estimated Job Frequency (varies based on type) |
| Battery change | Between 3 and 5 years |
| Sharpen lawn mower blades and balance them | Every 20 to 25 hours of use time or twice per season, whichever is first |
| Cleaning the vents | As needed, depending on usage |
| Lubricating the wheels | Once a month to twice per season, depending on usage |
As you can see, there are a number of tasks you may need to do as part of your seasonal maintenance, and these are just for your lawn mower. On top of these, you also need to maintain your edger, your leaf blower, and your hedge trimmer, if you have them.
\n\n\n\nIt may make things easier to get a professional tune-up to make sure all your equipment is functioning properly.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-debris.jpg\")
During the winter, it’s likely that leaves, branches, and other debris have accumulated on your lawn. It’s important to clean up this debris before you mow your lawn so that you can cut it evenly and prevent damage to your mower. You can follow these steps to clean up your yard:
\n\n\n\nTip: You don’t have to discard picked-up debris, like leaves. Instead, you may be able to turn it into a nutrient-rich compost. Moreover, some of the twigs you’ve picked up could be used for DIY projects.
\n\n\n\n![\"Soil](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soil-Testing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWinter can take a toll on your soil, so when spring rolls around, your grass may need additional nutrients like phosphorus, lime, and magnesium. A test can help you find out if your soil is lacking in any essential nutrients.
\n\n\n\nAnother reason you should test your soil is to determine its pH level. Your soil’s pH level can tell you how well it can absorb nutrients. Each turf grass has different pH level needs, but most of them grow in soils with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0.
\n\n\n\nAccording to North Carolina State University, you should do a soil test every two to three years. You can test your soil by using a home testing kit or by sending a sample to a lab. If you choose the latter, North Carolina State University accepts samples between April 1 and early November each year. At other times of the year, you’ll need to submit your soil samples to Raleigh.
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to do a soil test before you fertilize your lawn so that you know which nutrients it lacks.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Brown_Patch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs spring approaches, temperature and humidity increase. That’s great for your lawn’s growth, but it also creates the perfect environment for lawn diseases to thrive.
\n\n\n\nHere are just a few of the common North Carolina lawn diseases:
\n\n\n\nThe best way to deal with lawn diseases is to prevent them. You can avoid many lawn diseases by:
\n\n\n\nYour lawn will be more susceptible to diseases if you’re dealing with any of the following:
\n\n\n\nAlways look for signs of disease and treat them right away.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spraying-Lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Praxis Eco Pest Control / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWeeds can quickly take over a lawn and compete with grass for nutrients and water. A few common weeds include:
\n\n\n\nTo prevent weeds from sprouting, you can treat and prevent them with herbicides. There are different kinds of herbicides, so make sure you pick the right ones and apply them correctly.
\n\n\n\nPre-emergent herbicides are applied before weeds emerge, which should be around March 15. It puts a chemical barrier on the surface of the soil to stop weeds from growing. It’s normally in effect for three to five months.
\n\n\n\nPost-emergent herbicides are applied later in the spring, when the weeds have already emerged.
\n\n\n\nHerbicides are further categorized as either selective or non-selective. A selective herbicide targets specific weeds, whereas a non-selective herbicide is stronger and can kill any plant. Be careful if you use a non-selective herbicide because it may kill plants that you want to keep.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, you should never use any herbicide on newly seeded areas. It should also be applied at least three or four days before mowing or at least two to three days after. After application, wait 24 hours before you irrigate.
\n\n\n\nIf you prefer the organic route, you can look into organic herbicides. Properly caring for your lawn by watering, mowing, fertilizing, aerating, and so forth can also make your lawn stronger and more weed-resistant.
\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\nYour soil may become compacted after a cold winter. To prevent your grass from suffering and even dying as a result, it’s important to aerate your lawn. This process involves creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeply into the roots of your grass.
\n\n\n\nBefore you aerate, consider your grass type. If you have a warm-season grass type, aerate it in late spring so that it can grow. The best time to aerate a cool-season grass type is in the fall. Following aeration, fertilization and seeding should come next (you can do either of them first). You can buy tools to aerate your lawn or contact a Durham professional.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Fertilizer-Spreader.jpg\")
The right amount of fertilizer depends on the type of grass you have and the condition of your soil. As mentioned above, overfertilizing can make your lawn more susceptible to diseases. While this is especially the case for centipedegrass, it’s nevertheless important to follow the recommended guidelines for fertilizing and not exceed them.
\n\n\n\nAs mentioned above, your soil test will reveal what your soil is lacking.
\n\n\n\nFertilizers mainly consist of three nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are abbreviated as N-P-K. If you buy a 24-6-6 fertilizer, it means that it’s made of 24% nitrogen, 6% phosphorus, and 6% potassium.
\n\n\n\nIdeal fertilization times depend on whether you have a warm-season or a cool-season grass type. You can learn about different Durham grass types to find out if you have a warm- or cool-season grass type. Either way, remember that you should fertilize your grass right after you aerate, if possible. You can overseed before or after you fertilize.
\n\n\n\nBut back to warm- and cool-season grasses’ fertilization needs. According to North Carolina State University, warm-season grasses don’t need fertilizer until about two weeks after they’ve started to green up. Cool-season grasses, on the other hand, should be fertilized in the fall. If you missed the recommended fertilization window, you should fertilize your cool-season grass early in the spring.
\n\n\n\nHere are the recommended fertilization times for typical Durham grass types:
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Fertilization |
| Bermudagrass | Early April to May |
| Centipedegrass | June |
| Kentucky bluegrass mix | Mid September to November |
| Tall fescue | Mid September to November |
| Zoysiagrass | June to August |
![\"Bare](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Bare-Patch-Spot.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf your lawn has bare patches, you need to overseed them to promote healthy growth. Overseeding should follow core aeration and can be done before or after fertilization. Just like other maintenance practices, the best time to overseed depends on your grass type.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a warm-season grass type, it’s best if you overseed it in late spring to early summer. Warm-season grasses’ optimal planting temperatures vary based on the type of grass. But broadly speaking, they begin to grow at temperatures between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit and do best at 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a cool-season grass type, you should overseed it in late summer to early fall. Just like warm-season grasses, cool-season grasses’ optimal planting temperatures vary based on the type of grass. But generally, they begin to grow at temperatures between 40 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit and do best at 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nIf you leave overseeding too early or too late, you risk the new grass not establishing well. Check out the best grass types for Durham if you want to know more about warm-season and cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nOnce you plant your new seed, don’t forget to fertilize it if you haven’t already. Additionally, water your new grass seed regularly to ensure that it gets enough moisture for proper growth.
\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 healthy, lush lawn requires proper mowing. Avoid mowing your grass too short, as it can damage it and affect its growth. Cut no more than one-third of the grass blade in one mow, and don’t mow wet grass. Also, don’t mow for 2 to 3 days before or 3 to 4 days after applying herbicide.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be sure not to let your grass grow too long because it can become susceptible to diseases and pests. How much you’ll need to do depends on your grass type.
\n\n\n\nHere are the recommended mowing heights for Durham grasses:
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Mowing Height |
| Bermudagrass | 1 to 2 inches (rotary mower) or 0.75 to 1 inch (reel mower) |
| Centipedegrass | 1.5 to 2 inches, depending on conditions |
| Kentucky bluegrass mix | Depends on the mix; anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 inches |
| Tall fescue | 2 to 4 inches |
| Zoysiagrass | Typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches depending on cultivar and shade; heights below 1 inch need a reel mower (which is recommended anyway) |
Tip: Once you’ve mowed your grass, you can leave grass clippings behind as natural fertilizer. But make sure that the clippings are not too long or too thick, because this will create too much thatch.
\n\n\n\n![\"Fall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fall-Armyworm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: uacescomm / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike weeds, insects can threaten the health and appearance of your lawn. Common Durham pests include:
\n\n\n\nTo prevent pests, make sure to keep your grass healthy by providing it with enough water and fertilizer. Moreover, mow, aerate, and dethatch as needed.
\n\n\n\nIf your lawn becomes infested with pests, use selective pesticides that kill only a certain kind of insect pests. Otherwise, you risk killing beneficial insects that prey on pests. You can also consider using natural pest control methods or seeking professional help if necessary.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/24445181093_9f2de37aff_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aqua Mechanical / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYour lawn needs sufficient watering, but overwatering can damage it and lead to diseases and pests.
\n\n\n\nThe amount of water your lawn needs depends on its type and weather conditions. Generally speaking, though, most grass types need around 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. You should water your lawn to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.
\n\n\n\nHere are a few tips for watering your lawn:
\n\n\n\nPartly, the lawn care you have to do will depend on the type of grass you have in your lawn. For the best care throughout the year, it’s important to know what kind of grass you have and what it needs.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add plants to your lawn, you can consider native plants. Natives need less care than non-natives and are beneficial to local ecosystems. Once again, make sure you choose plants that suit your specific needs and preferences.
\n\n\n\nSpring lawn care is just the beginning. If you’d rather enjoy the beauty of your lawn without the hassle of maintenance, you can also consider hiring a professional lawn care service to take care of it for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Greystone Mansion / Warren LeMay / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"11 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Durham Homeowners","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/1789c/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/107df/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 320w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/293e9/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 500w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/f2cbb/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 800w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/1789c/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 960w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/c26c2/Greystone-Durham-NC.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/1dd6e/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/67b76/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 320w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/8df11/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 500w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/98a65/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 800w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/1dd6e/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 960w,\n/static/5730b2bdad9ea07afaee142516e0bbbf/3cc96/Greystone-Durham-NC.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Durham Homeowners","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"If you want a great lawn this year, it pays to get a good jump on it in the spring. Here’s what you should do."}}},{"node":{"id":"1351a008-7850-5581-960b-bf35166a71d8","slug":"best-grass-types-durham","path":"/lawn-care/nc/durham/best-grass-types-durham/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"3c4f0f7e-d959-5ea1-9a84-f914bbb6828f","name":"Durham","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/durham/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"April 11th, 2023","excerpt":"Durham abounds with natural beauty all year round. From showy, lush greenery in the summer to dreamy, snow-covered landscapes in the winter, the city has the best of both worlds. Similarly, both warm- and cool-season grasses can thrive in Durham’s climate. But before you rush out and choose one, it’s important to know their strengths […]
\n","content":"\nDurham abounds with natural beauty all year round. From showy, lush greenery in the summer to dreamy, snow-covered landscapes in the winter, the city has the best of both worlds.
\n\n\n\nSimilarly, both warm- and cool-season grasses can thrive in Durham’s climate. But before you rush out and choose one, it’s important to know their strengths and weaknesses so you can select the best type of grass for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nAll grass types are classified as either warm-season or cool-season. Here are their differences:
\n\n\n\nAs mentioned above, both warm-season and cool-season types of grass will work with a Durham lawn. Read on to learn about some options.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass doesn’t need much mowing, fertilizing, or watering, making it a great option for those who want low-maintenance lawns. At the same time, this light green, medium-textured grass can grow thick in the right environment.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass grows slowly, so if you want to speed up the process, you should use sod or plugs. To keep your centipedegrass looking beautiful, dethatch it every two to three years and don’t apply too much fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate; full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high (with the right maintenance)
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Very low; if damaged, ensure to water promptly
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low, and requires less mowing than other grasses because of its slow growth habit
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5 to 2 inches, depending on conditions
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; can be prevented with the right care
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass establishes quickly and handles foot traffic and other stressful conditions well. It spreads rapidly and forms a dense, light-to-dark green turf.
\n\n\n\nThis grass comes in common, improved common, and hybrid cultivars. These cultivars range in texture, maintenance needs, disease resistance, and so forth. You can contact an expert to figure out which Bermudagrass cultivar is right for you.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; some cultivars may have slightly better shade tolerance, but in general, Bermudagrass needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Highly wear-resistant; if foot traffic damage does occur, Bermudagrass recovers well because of its aggressive rhizomes.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate; may need mowing as often as twice per week due to its low mowing height; plan to dethatch regularly
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1 to 2 inches (rotary mower) or 0.75 to 1 inch (reel mower)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low, but common diseases include spring dead spots, large patches, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Zoysiagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David-Pierre Mangiapan / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is known for its versatility, durability, weed control, and resistance. It can handle stresses like drought and foot traffic. Zoysia is a dense, light-to-medium green carpet of turfgrass that can grow in various soil types. Unlike other warm-season grasses, it can even tolerate moderate shade.
\n\n\n\nHowever, zoysia is extremely slow to establish. The best way to grow the grass is to buy sod, which is more expensive. Ensure that you water and fertilize your zoysia as needed and that you remove any built-up thatch.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate (high for a warm-season grass type)
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on the cultivar
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High; dense growth resists damage, and spreading through stolons and rhizomes allows for quick recovery
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches depending on cultivar and shade; heights below 1 inch need a reel mower (which is recommended anyway)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to medium, depending on the cultivar
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a versatile grass that keeps its medium-dark green color all year when it gets the right care. It can stay in tip-top shape under various kinds of stresses, whether it be heat, foot traffic, weeds, or diseases. Moreover, this grass can grow in either full sun or partial shade.
\n\n\n\nHowever, if your tall fescue grass suffers damage, it won’t repair itself, so you’ll need to reseed it. Don’t get cultivar Kentucky-31 for your home lawn. Instead, look for an improved variety, often called turf-type tall fescue. Some experts recommend a blend of two or three tall fescue grasses for better performance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass; doesn’t spread well
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate; full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but if bare spots appear, you’ll need to reseed in the fall
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Relatively low, but requires frequent mowing
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3 to 4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kentucky-Bluegrass-Mix.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ferran Pestaña / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nEven though Kentucky bluegrass grows best in the north of the U.S., it’s used all over the country. It’s a dense, blue-green grass that forms a soft turf and has great ability to repair itself. Although this grass is slow to establish, it can create a lush, uniform lawn if you take care of it.
\n\n\n\nHowever, it may have problems handling heat, drought, and bad soil. Mixing Kentucky bluegrass with other grass types makes it more durable throughout the year. It can be mixed with tall fescue and fine fescue, or just tall fescue on its own.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: KGB spreads by rhizomes; fine fescues are bunch-type, except creeping red fescues, which have short rhizomes; tall fescues are mostly bunch-type
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate, depending on the mix; KBG needs full sun, but fine fescues and tall fescues can tolerate partial shade
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High; may go dormant in summer droughts but will recover quickly once cooler temperatures and rainfall resumes
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate to high; tall fescue resists traffic damage well; KBG resists traffic damage well in colder months; fine fescues work better in low-traffic areas; if damage occurs, tall fescue and fine fescue require overseeding
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Depends on the mix; anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Depends on the mix; KGB has a moderate to high risk for disease, but proper management reduces this risk. Tall fescue and fine fescue grasses are less susceptible to disease.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking to make your lawn care easier, consider centipedegrass, which is known for being super low-maintenance.
Bermudagrass is a champ at handling foot traffic, but zoysiagrass is also a great option. If you prefer cool-season grasses, tall fescue should be fine either on its own or mixed with Kentucky bluegrass. Choose the grass that best fits your needs.
Centipedegrass and zoysiagrass are both relatively good at handling partial shade.
If you want your grass to stay green all year, pick tall fescue. This grass can keep its color during all seasons if you give it the right care.
Some people prefer a low-maintenance lawn, while others need resistant turfgrass that can withstand heavy foot traffic. Depending on your personal needs and preferences, you have a variety of grasses to choose from. Additionally, if you want a beautiful, easy-care landscape, make sure that you also research the right native plants for your Durham yard.
\n\n\n\nNo matter which grass type and plants you pick, you’ll need to take care of them to one degree or another to make sure they thrive in your yard. But it doesn’t have to take up all your time. Contact local lawn care pros to see how they can help.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo By: Pixabay
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Your Durham, North Carolina Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/1789c/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/107df/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 320w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/293e9/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 500w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/f2cbb/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 800w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/1789c/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 960w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/c26c2/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/1dd6e/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/67b76/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 320w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/8df11/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 500w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/98a65/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 800w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/1dd6e/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 960w,\n/static/f55b20099e61150946eb989ff9f846a8/3cc96/Grass-Types-for-Your-Durham.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Your Durham, North Carolina Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"When it comes to selecting grass for your Durham lawn, you have options. Let’s explore which ones are the right fit for your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"7b5a68ed-1cba-5219-8ff1-1581ee03aef7","slug":"best-native-plants-durham","path":"/lawn-care/nc/durham/best-native-plants-durham/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"3c4f0f7e-d959-5ea1-9a84-f914bbb6828f","name":"Durham","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/durham/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"April 11th, 2023","excerpt":"You can admire Durham’s captivating native plants in local forests and parks, but why not also grow them in your own yard? Not only will they be a beautiful addition to your property, but they’re good for the environment and easier to care for than non-natives. Read on to find out more about native plants […]
\n","content":"\nYou can admire Durham’s captivating native plants in local forests and parks, but why not also grow them in your own yard? Not only will they be a beautiful addition to your property, but they’re good for the environment and easier to care for than non-natives.
\n\n\n\nRead on to find out more about native plants that work well in your Durham yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t already have native plants growing in your garden, it’s time to make the switch. Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil, and they’re beneficial in numerous ways. For example:
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Highbush_blueberries.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ryjial Christianson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAs you may have guessed, the highbush blueberry isn’t just a feast for the eyes. The plant’s bell-shaped blossoms give way to delicious blueberries that are perfect for snacking. Moreover, the highbush blueberry provides food for wildlife. In fact, watch out; once your blueberries ripen, birds may like them so much that you need to cover them with netting.
\n\n\n\nBlueberries take about 6 to 8 years to fully mature, but you can plant different cultivars together to increase your berry yield. If you want optimal growth, use acidic soil and remove spent flowers regularly. Starting in the third year after planting, prune your blueberry plant as needed. Laying organic mulch is also beneficial for your highbush blueberries to grow healthy.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Edible shrub
Hardiness zones: 3 to 8
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: High (1 inch of water per week)
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy; acidic, organically rich, well-drained, medium to wet
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 12 feet
Potential hazards: None known
![\"3,4](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3890892940_425fc87659_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: RHal4D / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nRiver birch, also called water birch, black birch, and red birch, can be a beautiful addition to your landscape the whole year round. This tree can reach 60 feet at maturity, and, because it naturally grows along riverbanks, it thrives in wet weather. However, it handles periods of drought relatively well, too.
\n\n\n\nYou can help your river birch tree stay hydrated by giving it a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch. The best time to trim the tree is in late spring or early fall. Don’t prune in spring when its sap is running.
\n\n\n\nNote that the tree has toxic effects if any part of it is consumed.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
Hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet, moist, acidic, fertile; tolerates drier soils and poor drainage
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 30 to 60 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red_maple_leaves.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Heng Wang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe red maple is notorious for its samaras, sometimes called “helicopter seeds.” These winged seeds spin when they fall from the tree, creating a fun and unique display. The tree is also the first to bloom in spring and change color in the fall, making it a showy addition to your yard throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it will take a number of years, the tree can grow up to as high as 120 feet in full sun or partial shade. The tree tolerates many kinds of soil, but to retain moisture and keep your red maple healthy, you should lay a layer of mulch.
\n\n\n\nHowever, take note that the red maple is highly toxic to humans and animals, especially its leaves and bark. If you have children or pets, make sure they don’t ingest any part of the tree.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
Hardiness zones: 2 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet, well-drained; tolerant of various soils but prefers moist, slightly acidic soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 40 to 120 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Rhododendron_atlanticum_-_Rendeux_9c_1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe coastal azalea forms a dense hedge, creating privacy and curb appeal. It has fragrant flowers that are a magnet for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Depending on the variety and your soil type, your coastal azalea may grow up to 8 feet tall, but it usually grows up to 2 to 3 feet tall.
\n\n\n\nYou should ideally provide your azalea with consistent moisture, but make sure that your soil is well-draining to avoid root rot. Because most of Durham has clay-heavy Utisol soil, it’s advisable to plant your azalea in a raised flower bed.
\n\n\n\nTo keep your azalea looking its best, clip off its spent flower clusters after bloom. Mulching can help the soil retain moisture and manage its temperature. Full sun exposure can damage the plant, so make sure you provide it with the right amount of shade.
\n\n\n\nTake note: azaleas are severely toxic. Don’t eat any part of the plant, and make sure children and pets stay away from it.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering shrub
Hardiness zones: 1 to 8 (some may grow shorter, depending on variety and soil type)
Sun: Partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Light, acidic, sandy, well-drained; tolerates well-drained humusy loams
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 2 to 6 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8173412518_9b3cd7aa35_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrey Zharkikh / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLance-leaved coreopsis, also called tickseed, is a lovely yellow wildflower that can grow up to 2 feet even in bare areas. It doesn’t only look appealing to the human eye but also attracts pollinators and birds.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial wildflower is quite durable and resists heat, drought, and humidity. Because the plant spreads so easily, make sure to contain it so that it doesn’t overtake your garden. On the other hand, if you want to encourage new blooms, you should deadhead your lance-leaved coreopsis flowers with scissors.
\n\n\n\nThere are various plants in the Coreopsis species, and they’re generally seen as non-toxic. However, there isn’t a lot of data about the toxicity of lance-leaved coreopsis in particular, and there are some reports of toxicity to livestock Because the plant may have toxic effects, it’s always better to be cautious.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Wildflower
Hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Loamy, sandy, dry to medium moisture, well-drained; ideally poor, sandy or rocky soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 3 feet
Potential hazards: Some reports of toxicity
![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3972750375_f55529b403_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Pavelka / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAre you looking to add a pop of color to your yard? Consider planting the American beautyberry, which produces clusters of bright purple berries in the fall. The berries are not only beautiful but also a valuable food source for birds during the winter months. Moreover, the American beautyberry can even act as a natural mosquito repellant.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, you’ll be glad to find out that this shrub is relatively easy to care for. The American beautyberry doesn’t have any big problems with pests, and it can also handle some drought, though too much of it could be a problem.
\n\n\n\nYou may need to prune your American beautyberry in winter if you want to encourage more growth. Also, make sure to remove dead wood in spring. The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade.
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry is listed as non-toxic to humans on calpoison.org. Its berries can even be made into jelly. However, some sources report that they may have mildly toxic effects. To find out more information, you can discuss any dietary changes with a medical professional. Because there’s a lack of data about the plant’s toxicity to domestic animals, you should keep them from eating it.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
Hardiness zones: 6 to 10
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Low
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter; tolerant of various soil types as long as it gets good drainage
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 8 feet
Potential hazards: Mild toxic effects reported; a lack of data regarding toxicity to pets
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/winter-berry-tree-background.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a bit of color to your lawn through the winter, the winterberry holly, also known as the black alder, is a fitting choice. The plant features red berries throughout the winter and also provides food and shelter for birds and pollinators in the summer.
\n\n\n\nWhile it can grow in the shade, this shrub also tolerates heat and drought. It handles wet, swampy, or boggy conditions and both light and heavy soils. Its preference is, however, for moist, organic, acidic soils. Moreover, the winterberry holly is susceptible to some plant diseases, so make sure that you address any signs of infection promptly.
\n\n\n\nTake note that although the plant provides food for wildlife, it’s toxic to humans, domestic animals, and livestock, including dogs, cats, and horses.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree or large shrub
Hardiness zones: 3 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade, deep shade
Water needs: Moderate
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet soils; ideally moist, organic and acidic soils
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 15 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/766px-Heartleaf_aster_1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Nadiatalent / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe heart-leaved aster is also called the heart-leaved American aster and blue wood aster. It produces delicate blue-purple wildflowers that attract butterflies and bees.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for an easy-care plant, the heart-leaved aster is a great option. It’s resilient and low-maintenance, and can thrive in partial shade. Provide it with good air circulation to avoid diseases.
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t deadhead your heart-leaved aster, it’s likely to self-seed. Moreover, you should pinch back stems a number of times before mid-July if you want to control the plant’s look and height. If you do this, you may not need to stake the plant.
\n\n\n\nLittle is known about the hazards of the heart-leaved aster. However, the aster species includes many different types of plants, some of which are severely toxic, so practice caution.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
Hardiness zones: 3 to 8
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Low
Soil: Loamy, sandy, average, well-drained; ideally rich and dry to moist (not too moist)
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: Typically 2 to 5 feet; occasionally can grow to 6 feet
Potential hazards: None known due to a lack of data; other plants of the species are highly toxic, so practice caution
![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3912256151_865e2a4b51_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a dash of vibrance to your landscape, you can consider switchgrass. Not only can it grow quite tall, but it stands out with its colorful foliage.
\n\n\n\nThe first shoots of this tall grass emerge in the summer and brighten up the space with a burst of green. As fall approaches, it turns red and purple. Finally, switchgrass stays yellow throughout the winter.
\n\n\n\nWhile this ornamental grass prefers moist, clay, or sandy soils, it can grow in a variety of soils. Overly rich soils may cause the grass to flop. You should cut your switchgrass clumps back between late winter and early spring.
\n\n\n\nSwitchgrass is also a source of food for pollinators and birds. However, it’s toxic to some animals, so be cautious with your pets.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Ornamental grass
Hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Clay, loamy, sandy, average, medium to wet; prefers moist clay or sandy soil; can tolerate periods of drought and flooding
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 3 to 6 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic to some animals
![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/35788220756_6c924b709e_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is also known as orange milkweed. The milkweed family is the only host plant for monarch caterpillars as well as a delicious food source for adult butterflies. Apart from butterflies, hummingbirds also like to snack on butterfly weed’s nectar.
\n\n\n\nApart from being an important natural food for wildlife, butterfly weed can also look amazing on your lawn. It may take up to 2 or 3 years to establish, but after that, you’ll get a yearly display of bright orange flowers.
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to caring for your butterfly weed, think about the right spot to plant it. It should stay in its place once established and not be transplanted because of its deep taproot. To thrive, it should grow in full sun. It’s drought tolerant, so warm summer weather shouldn’t pose a problem. If you don’t want your butterfly weed to self-seed, remove seed pods before they split open.
\n\n\n\nTake caution; butterfly weed is a toxic plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
Hardiness zones: 4 to 10
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: Low
Soil: Sandy, poor, average, dry to medium, well-drained
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 2 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/47964802722_6865f7b1d4_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nGreen and gold has delicate, golden-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Don’t let its outward appearance fool you, though. This evergreen ground cover is resilient and can withstand weeds and diseases. Moreover, it also attracts songbirds and pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThis ground cover is also perfect for filling in gaps between other plants in your garden because it grows in shady areas. If your turfgrass can’t handle the shade, green and gold is a great option to make your lawn look complete and lush. Just watch out for mildew and contain the plant by removing spent flower stems.
\n\n\n\nGreen and gold has no known toxic effects, but it isn’t confirmed to be non-toxic either, so always proceed with caution.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Ground cover
Hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Sun: Partial shade, deep shade; tolerates full sun only if it grows in consistently moist soils
Water needs: Medium
Soil: Loamy, medium moisture, average, well-drained; ideally moist, acidic, rich with organic matter
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 1 to 2 inches
Potential hazards: None known (lack of data)
Each Durham native has its own unique characteristics. Make sure you consider the unique traits of the plant, such as soil needs, shade needs, and potential hazards, before you pick the plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAlso, take note that just because a plant doesn’t have known hazards doesn’t mean it’s completely safe, so be careful and keep an eye on children and pets around all plants. If you want to know about the medicinal or edible uses of any plant, consult a medical professional.
\n\n\n\nOne more important thing to consider is your area’s hardiness zone. Durham’s hardiness zone is 7b, which means its minimum temperatures are between 5 and 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Any plants you get need to match this hardiness zone to handle Durham’s coldest weather conditions. But there’s no cause for concern; all the plants in this article are a good fit for Durham’s climate.
\n\n\n\nDurham has a number of stunning native plants. But if you spot any of them in nature, don’t bring them home. Moving plants out of their natural habitat can disrupt the ecosystem and harm wildlife. Instead, get your plants ethically from local nurseries.
\n\n\n\nExamples of Durham nurseries are:
\n\n\n\nOnce you pick your natives, you’re one step closer to establishing a beautiful landscape, but you’re not done just yet. Don’t forget to also pick the right grass type. and consider all the maintenance work you’ll need to do throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to provide your landscape with the right care, consider hiring one of WikiLawn’s local pros who can handle it for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Red maple / David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"11 Native Plants That Will Make Your Durham, NC, Yard Pop","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1789c/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg","srcSet":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/107df/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 320w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/293e9/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 500w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/f2cbb/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 800w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1789c/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 960w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/c26c2/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1dd6e/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/67b76/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 320w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/8df11/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 500w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/98a65/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 800w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/1dd6e/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 960w,\n/static/86d3ab1550ff364f40eb24296028acc5/3cc96/Acer_rubrum_Red_Sunset_9zz.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Native Plants That Will Make Your Durham, NC, Yard Pop | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"When it comes to Durham grass types, there are a variety of options. Let’s see which ones are right for your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"099558d4-8315-5592-b749-fecf0baa638d","slug":"best-grass-types-western-carolina","path":"/lawn-care/nc/best-grass-types-western-carolina/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"573ee4f0-70b8-506d-bed1-b789c040fa0f","name":"Asheville","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/asheville/"},{"id":"afc750c6-fc25-5d3b-8b8a-77aa8db4c3fb","name":"Charlotte","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/charlotte/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"May 1st, 2023","excerpt":"It would be a shame to have a lawn that doesn’t match the beauty and extraordinary atmosphere of Western Carolina’s wildlife and waterfalls. But not every grass type is the same. If you’re in the market for a lush, green lawn, consider planting one of these 4 grasses that thrive here. In this article: 4 […]
\n","content":"\nIt would be a shame to have a lawn that doesn’t match the beauty and extraordinary atmosphere of Western Carolina’s wildlife and waterfalls. But not every grass type is the same. If you’re in the market for a lush, green lawn, consider planting one of these 4 grasses that thrive here.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThere are two kinds of grasses:
\n\n\n\nGiven Western Carolina’s temperate climate, both work well, but cool-season grasses are a slightly better option. Let’s explore some popular cool-season grass options.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pilot138-17 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is popular thanks to its picturesque, blue-green turf. It’s a dense grass that can withstand foot traffic, especially during the colder months. While heat may pose some challenges for the grass, it can repair itself if it becomes damaged. It can also withstand drought for some time until it goes dormant.
\n\n\n\nHowever, heat isn’t the only problem your Kentucky bluegrass turf may face. Other conditions that can be problematic include shade, diseases, pests, and thatch. Thus, it’s often mixed with other, more resistant grass types to make it more durable.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Rhizomes (underground stems)
Shade tolerance: Tolerates partial shade but prefers full sun
Drought tolerance: High; but long periods of drought will lead to dormancy
Foot traffic tolerance: High in colder weather, lower in warmer seasons
Maintenance needs: Provide an inch of water weekly; mow every 5 to 7 days; fertilize 1 to 3 times a year
Mowing height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches
Potential for disease: Moderate to high; susceptible to diseases such as necrotic ring spots and rusts
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nOur moderate summers and mild winters are the perfect conditions for perennial ryegrass, a bright green, tall grass that can be grown quickly from seed. Once it’s grown in, the grass can handle cold weather, stand up to foot traffic, and make less thatch than other types of grass.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is frequently mixed with other grasses to take advantage of its fast-growing, resistant qualities. But take note that you’ll need to mow it frequently. Additionally, this grass doesn’t self-repair and doesn’t stand up well to shade, excessive heat, drought, or fungal diseases.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Bunches
Shade tolerance: Moderate
Drought tolerance: Low to moderate
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance needs: Mow and water frequently; fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks
Mowing height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches, depending on species, weather, and intended use; you can cut even shorter, but very short heights need a reel mower
Potential for disease: High, including brown patch, red thread, and rust
![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t want to say goodbye to your green lawn in the winter, look no further. Turf-type tall fescue can form a thick, medium-to-dark green turf that will last all year. It’s resistant to cold as well as shade, heat, drought, and foot traffic, all while being low-maintenance and relatively fast-growing. It’s also a great option for mixing with other grass types to give your lawn more resilience.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it’s resistant, turf-type tall fescue can’t self-repair, so be prepared to overseed any bare spots. It will also need frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Bunches, occasionally rhizomes
Shade tolerance: Moderate
Drought tolerance: Very high
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance needs: Best to mow weekly; requires minimal fertilization; water as needed or your lawn will go dormant
Mowing height: 3 to 4 inches
Potential for disease: Low
![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Festuca_arundinacea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bildoj / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a broad name given to a variety of fescue grasses that differ in maintenance needs, density, germination times, and so forth. However, they’re all distinguished by their fine, thin blades that form a versatile, blue-green turf. Unlike other grass types, fine fescue grows in partial shade as well as drought (although drought may cause dormancy).
\n\n\n\nBe careful, though. Too much fertilizer can cause high thatch levels. While a little thatch is good, too much can choke the lawn and keep the soil and roots from getting oxygen and moisture. Overfertilization carries other hazards as well, so if you need to fertilize, follow instructions and stick to the amount you need. Moreover, take note that fine fescue isn’t the best fit for foot traffic and is susceptible to diseases.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Depends on the variant; most variants grow in bunches, but creeping red fescue uses rhizomes
Shade tolerance: High
Drought tolerance: High; may go dormant
Foot traffic tolerance: Low
Maintenance needs: Mow every 2 to 3 weeks until growth slows in the summer; fertilize 2 to 4 times a year; aerate once a year
Mowing height: 2.5 to 4 inches; the grass is slow-growing, so taller heights may be preferable
Potential for disease: Moderate
If you want to enjoy time outside with family and friends, you may want a durable grass like Kentucky bluegrass. It’s mainly resistant to foot traffic during cooler months. If damaged, it can self-repair.
Your other options are turf-type tall fescue and perennial ryegrass, which can’t self-repair but can handle foot traffic all year.
The best time to overseed cool-season grasses is in early fall. You want to give your grass at least 45 days to grow before the first frost hits. The risk of frost in Western Carolina begins at the beginning of October, so it’s best to overseed before mid-August.
Although Western Carolina is generally a cool place, it does get warm in the summer. If you want to create a shady lawn oasis, make sure you plant fine-leaf fescue. You can get a fine-leaf fescue and turf-type tall fescue mix to get the best out of both grass types.
If you want to care for your lawn as little as possible, either tall fescue or fine-leaf fescue should be a good fit.
You chose the right grass type, but what’s next? Once you sow your grass, you want to make sure that you give your lawn the right care all year round. This includes cleaning, dethatching, aerating, overseeding, and fertilizing, among many other tasks that are a necessity for every backyard.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re the type who enjoys spending time on your lawn more than working on it, consider creating a low-maintenance landscape. Not only can this mean planting a low-maintenance type of grass, but it can also mean using xeriscaping, hardscaping, planting easy-care plants, and other low-maintenance tips and techniques.
\n\n\n\nStill feeling overwhelmed? Consider hiring a professional lawn care service to take care of your lawn for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Joe Wolf / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n","title":"4 Grasses That Thrive in Western Carolina","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.518987341772152,"src":"/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/1789c/lawn-in-asheville.jpg","srcSet":"/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/107df/lawn-in-asheville.jpg 320w,\n/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/293e9/lawn-in-asheville.jpg 500w,\n/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/f2cbb/lawn-in-asheville.jpg 800w,\n/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/1789c/lawn-in-asheville.jpg 960w,\n/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/c26c2/lawn-in-asheville.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/1dd6e/lawn-in-asheville.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/67b76/lawn-in-asheville.webp 320w,\n/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/8df11/lawn-in-asheville.webp 500w,\n/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/98a65/lawn-in-asheville.webp 800w,\n/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/1dd6e/lawn-in-asheville.webp 960w,\n/static/089ad9b349d414e3f52d78ef11a15a80/3cc96/lawn-in-asheville.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Grasses That Thrive in Western Carolina | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Grass isn’t a one-size-fits-all proposition For a lush, green lawn, consider starting with one of these 4 grasses that thrive in Western Carolina"}}},{"node":{"id":"669a157f-11d9-5a5b-922c-7e43291b39cc","slug":"great-perennials-for-north-carolina","path":"/lawn-care/nc/great-perennials-for-north-carolina/","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":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"May 22nd, 2023","excerpt":"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\n![\"American](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Boneset.jpg\")
Photo 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"}}},{"node":{"id":"0c03fdd8-6e52-5427-b295-fe9c2b026440","slug":"controlling-worst-weeds-charlotte","path":"/lawn-care/nc/charlotte/controlling-worst-weeds-charlotte/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"afc750c6-fc25-5d3b-8b8a-77aa8db4c3fb","name":"Charlotte","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/charlotte/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"July 30th, 2019","excerpt":"If you were a weed, wouldn’t you want to make Charlotte your home? These uninvited guests, however, get in the way of us keeping lawns beautiful.
\n","content":"\nYou really can’t blame them: If you were a weed, wouldn’t you want to make Charlotte your home? These uninvited guests, however, get in the way of us keeping lawns beautiful.
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t want to have your yard become a weedy welcome mat, the key is to spot them early and take care of weeds as they come up. Here’s a guide for controlling the worst weeds in Charlotte.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lrBgC06YV-YqYYN7yRqNSriNT1OML-uP_RX86xvcR6G-OFtk8wmECKyCgD2_rNu3YxygamloDHM7HEcBMrPw4_ublc1NsqStMB4bElrsOI4PGVzqqx0Riz1nLQgXUeOk3ZHzzyCl\")
This perennial plant once was a standard part of grass seed mixes. But once chemical herbicides were introduced after World War II, clover was redefined as a weed by the industry. Clover will come back year after year, left unchecked. Winter frost doesn’t slow it down one bit, either. Clover likes nothing better than poorly fertilized grass because it has the upper hand. To beat this persistent weed, start by fertilizing in the spring and fall to give your lawn an advantage. Keep the grass mowed high — 3 inches or taller — to give it an edge over the clover. The last resort is using a broadleaf herbicide to spot-treat the clover, But only do this if your efforts to have the grass overpower the clover fail.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/chickweed-flowers-stellaria-media-flickr-hedera-baltica-1024x971.jpg\")
This annual winter weed will creep in beginning in early fall and will persist until spring. Left unchecked, it can spread into large patches. The organic way to control chickweed is to pull up any of the shallow-rooted plants as they come up. You’ll then need to aerate and reseed to fill in any of the gaps in the turf left behind. Some pre-emergent treatments will kill chickweed when applied in the early spring, and post-emergents will work in the fall. Mow often to prevent these plants from going to seed, at which point a pre-emergent may be the best choice.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lDDV_6uILf08I912SlAdce9KrL9TB5G20KhnSxqTrVeD5KFxpWF3D5ofAvkpF6OmhBahCvMG_6K9DCCpCfBFrJ5k9AmkPYIWspIhD2OYQB3Hl-ok5MzUrxMnU8q5Sgp0kL9zePK4\")
Hairy bittercress may sound like an ingredient in a Harry Potter spell but will feel like a curse if you ever try to pull it up by the roots. This annual winter weed will send small explosions of seeds in all directions. During winter and spring, go on a bittercress patrol a couple of times a week and pull any emerging plants. Once the seeds start popping, you will have a much bigger problem the following year. Frequent mowings can keep this pesky weed in check, but a severe infestation calls for broadleaf herbicide treatment.
\n\n\n\nFrom late fall to spring, this opportunistic weed loves to invade patchy lawns in shady spots. Begin surveying the yard in late summer to scope out any of the telltale purple leaves as it begins to emerge. Hand weed any henbit you find in these first weeks of emergence, and you should be well-positioned to win the battle. Treat any heavy infestations with a pre-emergent in the fall.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/uT_V7ugO7nsiFbU1dxk5CIMFlSXuwIhWQCVUaEfnw50Pfk6NYM2KJyXpzuYXpXQNKkbK0ZifGGcmb4FGEaPhkzlmhQzug9s3WYirdEi205rPn6XsbuiGvK2L9VNb7gN65jtLlWce\")
Often mistaken for henbit, this relative of mint is one of the most aggressive lawn weeds around. If you’re able to spot it early and pull it up by the roots, you’ll be in good shape, but if you have an infestation, you’re in trouble. A pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicide may be the only way to take care of a bad case of purple deadnettle.
\n\n\n\nBear in mind that for each of these weeds and countless others, the best offense is a good defense. Aerating, mowing properly, watering and fertilizing at the right times, helps in controlling the worst weeds in Charlotte. Remember, the more energy you put into keeping the lawn healthy and happy, the less time you will spend fighting off weeds.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Charlotte? Visit our Charlotte Lawn Care page.
When it comes to grasses that will flourish in Raleigh, you have a lot to choose from. North Carolina is in what’s called the “transition zone,” an area sandwiched between the cold north and warm south. We need grasses that can handle both conditions. There are 8 best grass types for Raleigh that thrive in […]
\n","content":"\nWhen it comes to grasses that will flourish in Raleigh, you have a lot to choose from. North Carolina is in what’s called the “transition zone,” an area sandwiched between the cold north and warm south. We need grasses that can handle both conditions. There are 8 best grass types for Raleigh that thrive in warm and cold.
\n\n\n\nLearn more about each grass type to help you decide which one is perfect for your property.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses perform their best in the southern half of the U.S. and actively grow when the temperature is around 75 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. These are drought-tolerant grasses that are mowed at a lower height in the summer.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow best during hot North Carolina summers but will become dormant during the cold winter. For the best results, plant seeds in late spring and early summer.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses are more suited to northern climates with cold winters. These grasses are able to remain green through most of the year, even in cooler temperatures. They thrive when temperatures are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses should be seeded in late summer or early fall. Unlike warm-season grasses, they should be mowed at a taller height.
\n\n\n\nThe following warm-season and cool-season grass types are perfectly suited for the climatic and soil conditions of Raleigh:
\n\n\n\n![\"Bermudagrass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Bermudagrass is dense with a dark green color, and grows very quickly, which makes it great for any bare spots in your lawn. It’s one of the toughest grasses and will even out-compete weeds – however, it also will invade and take over your flower beds if you don’t keep an eye on it.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass can be seeded, but can also be planted with sods and plugs. It thrives in full sun and goes dormant in the winter once the temperature goes below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of this, it will do best in lawns that get very little shade. If you have a significant number of trees that generate shade, then Bermudagrass will not work for you.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is available in several different improved and hybrid varieties that are used for golf courses, lawns, parks, roadsides, and sports fields.
\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, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\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 is able to outcompete 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. Tolerant of most soil types.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Centipedegrass.jpg\")
Centipedegrass is a popular choice in coastal areas since it adapts to infertile, acidic soils as well as salt and sand. It can only handle heavy clay soils if there is lots of drainage. This species of grass needs to be seeded regularly since it takes two or three years to fully mature and fill out your lawn. Once grown, it becomes granny-smith apple green with a dense, coarse texture.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass was initially used for low-maintenance cemeteries and eventually for lawns during and after the Great Depression. It is sometimes called “lazy man’s grass” or “poor man’s grass.” It has good shade and drought tolerance and can be spread by either seed or sod. Other varieties of centipedegrass have better cold tolerance and better performance in alkaline soils.
\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: Good resistance to diseases and insects
\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; doesn’t tolerate heavy traffic; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/St.-Augustinegrass-1.jpg\")
The Raleigh blend of St. Augustinegrass was developed and specifically adapted for the area by North Carolina State University in 1980 and has a higher cold tolerance than other blends. The most shade tolerant of warm-season grasses, Raleigh St. Augustine is a great choice for homes in heavily wooded areas.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is a lush, fast-growing grass with a medium blue-green color. It works best in moist, warm climates with plenty of drainage and rich soil and is well-suited for North Carolina’s warm weather.
\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 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
\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![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Zoysiagrass.jpg\")
Zoysiagrass is a dense, lush grass that is light- to medium green. It is weather-resistant and low maintenance but will take a long time to establish. It does best in heat and full sun, and the speed of its growth depends on how much sun it receives. Zoysiagrass turns brown at the first fall and goes dormant throughout the winter.
\n\n\n\nIt does not require frequent mowing and rarely needs irrigation, but it will become thatchy if not properly cared for. There are several species and cultivars of Zoysiagrass used in different aspects of landscaping, with some being fine-textured and others being coarse-textured.
\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: Not prone to disease and insects; good disease tolerance overall
\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![\"Fine](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Fine-Fescue.jpg\")
Fine fescues are known for their fine leaves. They tend to bunch and not spread out, so are often combined with Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue. Fine fescue seeds establish quickly and are a deep green color with a fine texture that almost resembles pine needles.
\n\n\n\nThis grass is drought resistant, cold tolerant, and does very well in poor soil conditions. It is the most shade-tolerant of all grass types and prefers rocky or sandy soil and clay. Full sun reduces fine fescue quality and results in thinning. Fine fescue is recommended for northern gardens and warm, shady areas.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grasses with one exception: creeping red fescues possess rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage is a must; tolerates infertile soils; sandy soils generally work well
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Often used in a mix with other cool-season grasses, especially in sun/shade mixes
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Tall fescue is perhaps the most popular cool-season grass in the upper piedmont area thanks to it remaining green during winter. Considered a reliable, low-maintenance grass, tall fescue is both tolerant to heat and resistant to cold. It thrives in full sun and partial shade, and because it can withstand heat and sudden dips in temperature, tall fescue works well for lawns in transition zones of the U.S.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue often needs to be irrigated to remain attractive during the summer. It grows best on fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 but can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions. It has a coarse texture, with a medium to dark green color and an extensive root system.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate, but low ability to recuperate from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Fast rate of growth, so plan to mow often
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations. Many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side.)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate under proper management conditions
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Fertile, good drainage, but will tolerate a wider range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Reseed every few years to repair bare spots and thinning; don’t plant old varieties such as Kentucky-31; look for “turf-type” tall fescue (TTTF). Seed blends with more than one TTTF cultivar give the best chance for a strong lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"Goats](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Kentucky-Bluegrass.jpg\")
As great as it would be to have a folk band serenading you in your yard, Kentucky bluegrass is actually a species of cool-season grass. Also, despite what the name suggests, it’s not blue, but dark green.
\n\n\n\nConfusing, we know. Apparently, when early Kentucky settlers looked out at the fields, the seed heads had a purplish, blue-green hue in the sun, hence the name.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass (the plant) performs best when paired with tall fescue for a lush lawn that lasts throughout the year. It grows best in cool temperatures during the fall, winter, and spring, and its growth slows during the summer. Kentucky bluegrass tolerates some shade but prefers full sun.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate, but will survive by going dormant
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency; a high-maintenance grass
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, fertile
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Produces a dense lawn under ideal conditions; many of these traits (shade tolerance, drought resistance, etc.) vary widely by cultivar, with newer cultivars generally being hardier, more resistant to disease, etc.; mow taller in summer; most often mixed with other species, such as tall fescue, in home lawns
\n\n\n\n![\"Long](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Perennial ryegrass is the best grass for transition zone areas like Raleigh because it can withstand the warm season despite being a grass type for the cool season. Ryegrass is a thick, dense, dark green grass that can stand up to heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nRyegrass is resistant to pests and thrives in well-drained soil. Its roots establish quickly, and it has a long growing season, all of which make it one of the most popular cool-season grasses. Perennial ryegrass is often used for winter overseeding on golf courses, athletic fields, and home lawns to provide winter color in warm climates.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low (summer dormancy in some areas)
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but poor recuperative ability
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing requirement, depending on cutting height (lower cutting heights require more frequent mowing)
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High, especially in areas with hot, humid summers
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, high fertility
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Most often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue in a cool-season mix; well known for its excellent striping ability, low mowing tolerance (reel mower fans, this one’s for you), and rapid germination rate (four to seven days). Needs moderate levels of fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nThe most commonly used grasses in North Carolina are warm season grasses like bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, and centipedegrass.
Fine fescues are finely bladed grasses that are the softest and most lush grasses for bare feet.
Tall fescue thrives in sun or medium shade in the mountains and is the best for a green lawn year-round.
Bermudagrass is the best for Raleigh and regions of North Carolina with warm temperatures since it has a deep root system and provides resistance from heat, drought, and insects.
For homeowners in Raleigh, it can be tricky picking out the right grass for your lawn. But thankfully, your location makes your decision more flexible since you can safely house both cool-season and warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to learn more about how to care for your lawn for each season, you can check out our guide on spring and fall lawn care tips in Raleigh.
\n\n\n\nLooking for help from an experienced professional? You can keep your lawn looking lush and healthy with the help of Raleigh lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Pxhere
\n","title":"8 Best Grass Types for Raleigh, NC","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/1789c/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg","srcSet":"/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/107df/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 320w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/293e9/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 500w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/f2cbb/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 800w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/1789c/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 960w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/c26c2/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/1dd6e/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/67b76/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 320w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/8df11/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 500w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/98a65/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 800w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/1dd6e/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 960w,\n/static/603190c617102df4845ef804f2c49ef9/3cc96/Best-grass-type-for-raleigh.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Grass Types for Raleigh, NC | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Need a new lawn? You have the option of 8 different cool-season and warm-season grasses that thrive in a Raleigh yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"dc8184c9-b555-5fd6-9cb0-572b420e5257","slug":"worst-backyard-pests-raleigh-nc","path":"/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/worst-backyard-pests-raleigh-nc/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"},{"id":"960004f5-f837-5b2c-8241-8a86613fdf92","name":"Raleigh","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"Many people move to Raleigh for the mild and short winters. These winters, combined with hot and humid conditions the rest of the year, create the perfect breeding ground for a number of insects. Backyard pests, including the ones that bite, can scare us out of our backyard and into the house. It’s even worse […]
\n","content":"\nMany people move to Raleigh for the mild and short winters. These winters, combined with hot and humid conditions the rest of the year, create the perfect breeding ground for a number of insects.
\n\n\n\nBackyard pests, including the ones that bite, can scare us out of our backyard and into the house. It’s even worse if you suffer allergic reactions to the bites and stings. Knowing what to watch out for, and how to help get rid of these pesky insects, is vital in keeping you and your family safe. Here’s a list of the worst backyard pest in Raleigh and how to control them.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ZTkij3KXZbe4Q85z30z5EYKtvnOqlt8xo5Feh5I4O6pbJ0O-l3B94EsWINd5BzBtlL1KW9P4D5znrVknFoanAQYaeYXckJ_NvGh8O6WKZTxlQzVCeRBSjKEEvXbef6RIZ1_0lIyj\")
Any environment that’s moist and humid will experience the onslaught of mosquitoes. Raleigh is a mosquito magnet and the perfect spot for these backyard pests to both breed and thrive. Mosquitoes are not just a nuisance. They’re the deadliest creature on the planet, spreading diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. At the very least, getting a mosquito bite causes itching for days.
\n\n\n\nHelp keep your backyard free of these bloodsuckers by eliminating standing water in your yard. Bird baths, children’s toys and even uneven ground levels can harbor enough standing water for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Mosquito traps are a good investment since they can kill hundreds of bugs in a single night. Natural guards, like citronella candles work. Even better? Plant insect repelling plants such as lavender, mint and rosemary. The scent of these herbs really bugs bugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IQX6moIurvfeoJqI3695yv3qNrYf1Jn1rGZBT0eapI7LO09GiD-0lFLl_m7MTgrHa-FkdHlthimE9Q7x0ObAPy10jE0vsqPDz45MjRZNaIAYpME0z61dfx98Igi3tvvumDhlLY3i\")
While some of the worst backyard pests are native to the Raleigh area, fire ants are an unwanted visitor that has outstayed its welcome. These pests hitchhiked aboard a cargo ship from Brazil. You’ll know that you have them in the backyard when you see dome-shaped dirt mounds in the yard. Fire ants are reddish-brown and can grow up to one-third of an inch long. North Carolina is being swarmed with these pests, and currently, 71 counties in our area of the state are seeing infestations. If you step on one of their mounds, you’ll see an onslaught of them come out to bite and sting you. could be deadly for small pets and young children who are allergic to the stings.
\n\n\n\nThey’re also attracted to motorized equipment and electrical boxes and can cause thousands of dollars in damage. You can spray the hills with insecticidal spray or use a bait that will kill the ants and their queen from within the mound. You’ll need to continue applying the bait all summer.
\n\n\n\nMost flies around the country are just annoying pests. However, our part of the country has the added issue of biting flies. These flies not only hover around trashy areas, they’re out for blood. Black flies are quite dangerous in our area due to their swarming capabilities. A swarm can quickly cause a lot of damage to both pets and family members.
\n\n\n\nA smaller version of biting flies is biting midges, also called no-see-ums. They’re tough to spot but easy to feel. Biting midges love the warm weather and always seem to show up in time to ruin that backyard party.
\n\n\n\nYour best defense is insect repellant. Wearing light colored and long-sleeved clothing also helps discourage the flies from seeing you as a target. Yard and garden insect sprays help, but only for a few hours. Since they hover around garbage, keep your yard free of trash and debris.
\n\n\n\nWhile mosquitoes and biting flies bug us, they usually leave the garden alone. A gardener’s worst enemies include aphids, Colorado potato bugs, and azalea lace bugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"Aphid,](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/nNCTxw17oL5Bqf4LrvIvQLRtp-bMv6W3-1gF5Rwb0OlXfJJfRtbo6uwv0byQnQqfjtVHp8woPjWmUEfpehPt_oahIrGfRh3MgsG51Q1nP67AUqJifRjJAxOJPGvEIaiEifQFAVCv\")
These yellow and green bugs blend in with the leaves and stems of your plants and suck the sap out of the leaves and fruits. You can get rid of them by introducing ladybugs and lacewings into your garden. Petunias will also repel these pests.
\n\n\n\n![\"Insect,](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/le8D9QQr8zuinv7llVtQ5Mc9d9fLY5HwiDXgZADRE3p97PwuwE8OQjEus-P53Pktl92bcSClSV7Y_eOpw30Z2vuRWTt07ro0Es-tNBzSV1GoEhIZ63J87A619S-iA33jNXx2FhuX\")
These critters look a bit like ladybugs but are extremely destructive to your petunias, potatoes, and tomatoes. Planting cilantro nearby and using a neem oil spray can help keep these bugs at bay.
\n\n\n\nNorth Carolina is home to more than 30 species of lace bugs, and most are not considered pests. The azalea lace bug is the exception since it attacks our native azalea plants. You’ll know you have a problem when you start to see white or silver spots on the leaves. You want to spray the plant with an insecticide at the beginning of spring, just as the females are laying eggs.
\n\n\n\nThese are just a sample of the backyard pests that can ruin your garden and your time outdoors. Plan ahead, and treat your lawn and garden before the worst of the pests arrive in Raleigh.
\n\n\n\nDo you have questions about lawn care and gardening in Raleigh? Visit our Raleigh, NC, lawn care page.
\n","title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Raleigh and How to Control Them","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.8064516129032258,"src":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/0c28a/adult-black-fly.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/107df/adult-black-fly.jpg 320w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/293e9/adult-black-fly.jpg 500w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/0c28a/adult-black-fly.jpg 672w","srcWebp":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/c5ec9/adult-black-fly.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/67b76/adult-black-fly.webp 320w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/8df11/adult-black-fly.webp 500w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/c5ec9/adult-black-fly.webp 672w","sizes":"(max-width: 672px) 100vw, 672px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Raleigh and How to Control Them | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"2a8ecb7e-d45c-5f19-8a36-8ee726cdee9e","slug":"raleigh-nc-lawn-mowing-maintenance","path":"/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/raleigh-nc-lawn-mowing-maintenance/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"},{"id":"960004f5-f837-5b2c-8241-8a86613fdf92","name":"Raleigh","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"Homeowners in the Triangle know a thing or two about landscaping. Raleigh enjoys the nickname, “City of Oaks” thanks to the majestic trees that line the city streets and parks. Those oaks provide shade for many backyards here. Both front and back lawns are common gathering areas as homeowners enjoy all that the seasons have […]
\n","content":"\nHomeowners in the Triangle know a thing or two about landscaping. Raleigh enjoys the nickname, “City of Oaks” thanks to the majestic trees that line the city streets and parks. Those oaks provide shade for many backyards here. Both front and back lawns are common gathering areas as homeowners enjoy all that the seasons have to offer.
\n\n\n\nKnowing how to care for your grass is paramount to creating a lush, green lawn to enjoy year-round. Proper lawn mowing and maintenance in Raleigh is half the battle. Check out these tips on mowing and maintaining your lawn in the Triangle.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/sOAfnI1RjUlg7c1aJnTf7YmO_ElxF-TBHvYFuMezA1JDey_zc4n5hxjd-Xl9hPQ2D2rRXlCLmNN97fKuNVfrbGzOuVau5ji96uLxA_1kjqdExRr5QeD2KmEx1lvtqCguyuQlLbt4\")
Most lawns in the city consist of fescue, which is a cool-season grass that grows well. Every grass type has a different recommended height, so it’s important to identify the type of grass growing in your yard. Mow fescue to a height between 3.5-4 inches tall for best results. Other grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, do best when kept between 2.5-3 inches. Check out the characteristics of your grass and compare it to other lawns in the neighborhood.
\n\n\n\nWhile it’s convenient to mow the grass on a regular basis, there could be factors that play into the best time to mow. Rainy periods can cause the grass to grow quickly while periods of drought can stifle grass growth. You should mow once every 10-14 days on average. Pay attention to the yard and only mow it when it grows beyond the recommended height for your grass type.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/8qHmWbMNNIdtozJ_G4loTdZcUTAPv4idPTXzeTzkGnzeeCyA4Hf9kMhhrqK7MM46pidsJWAOeKcBCwSy1Yq4Kab-GCojsy-aT5Q9s7waFMwaQjgGFyoFAXhTHid7mEisHfFDv088\")
Forget about bagging those clippings during a mow. Sure, it may look neater at first, but it could hurt your lawn. Allowing clippings to lie where they fall helps boost the nitrogen levels in the soil, which creates a healthier lawn. You may want to blow clippings off the sidewalk and pathways to keep neighbors happy.
\n\n\n\nIt’s common to see sprinkler systems giving area lawns a drink every day, but it’s actually bad for the yard. Grass responds better to longer weekly soakings than smaller daily drinks. One long soak during the week encourages grass roots to grow down into the soil, creating a strong, healthier lawn. Grass that has a stronger root system can stand up better to foot traffic, disease, and drought.
\n\n\n\nLawns need energy at different times of the year. Many Raleigh lawns can use a boost of energy at both the beginning and end of the growing season. If your yard is having trouble, consider adding another fertilizer treatment to help bring it back up to speed. Quick release fertilizers are great for a boost of energy and color. Slow release fertilizers will help give your grass a prolonged amount of energy through the summer.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/7jvO3EWuoggdzAwntZevyO_YAxYIi6UB3iz2c6lYI_MoU27y33LG5wVkXHSe_oQP1XhJzb7TGj9dQbG0fIYrHcjM52GqOLkM3N_f9ubZAVtTicxCmGS-qIAs61BS7ERJOM9cg9xS\")
Weeds are a common enemy for anyone trying to grow a verdant lawn. They compete with the grass for space and nutrients. A healthy lawn is your best defense against the invaders since the weeds will have little room to sprout. Many early season fertilizers also contain weed treatments. If you do find stubborn weeds, treat them with a pre-emergent or pull them out by the roots right away, before they have a chance to sprout new seeds.
\n\n\n\nFollow these tips to keep your Raleigh lawn looking great this year. Keeping these things in mind will help you create a beautiful yard that showcases your home.
\n\n\n\nLooking for more information about taking care of lawns and landscape in Raleigh? Go to our Raleigh, NC lawn care page.
There’s so much to do in Charlotte that it’s easy to put off maintenance on that patch of greenery on your property — your lawn. However, it’s important to take a moment away from enjoying the good life to keep it in tip-top shape. The following is a short guide to lawn mowing in Charlotte. […]
\n","content":"\nThere’s so much to do in Charlotte that it’s easy to put off maintenance on that patch of greenery on your property — your lawn. However, it’s important to take a moment away from enjoying the good life to keep it in tip-top shape. The following is a short guide to lawn mowing in Charlotte.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a dominant type of grass in the Piedmont — the wide plateau of rolling hills in which Charlotte lies. Like all cool-season grasses that are grown in Charlotte, it grows most actively in spring and fall and can go dormant and brown in the summer. Some warm-season grasses are also grown in Charlotte, and they have their peak growing season in the summer.
\n\n\n\nSo depending on your grass type, you either need to back off your mowing schedule (for cool-season grasses) or step it up (for warm-season grasses) during the hottest months.
\n\n\n\nRegardless of when you mow, to help support the long-term health of your turf, set your mower blades at the highest recommended setting for your turn type. In the case of tall fescue, that’s 2½ to 3½ inches. Longer blades of grass can make the most of the sunlight to build deep roots, which will ensure a healthier, more drought-resistant lawn.
\n\n\n\nNever cut more than one-third off the length of your grass at one time. If you’ve let things go a little wild, increase the frequency of your mows to gradually cut it down to the size you desire, rather than cutting off all the length at once. Additionally, you should keep your mower blades sharp so that they are cutting the grass instead of tearing it.
\n\n\n\nRather than bagging up grass clippings, allow the mower to spread them out across your yard. They will slowly release nutrients back into the soil, and can reduce your need for fertilization. Just make sure you only mow when the lawn is dry to prevent clumping. Clumps of grass can smother grass and leave yellow spots.
\n\n\n\nCharlotte lawns thrive best when given an inch of water per week. Programming your irrigation to deposit an inch per week is ideal, preferably just before dawn. This reduces evaporation, allows the maximum moisture penetration into the soil and reduces the vulnerability to fungus and disease that can come when grass is left wet overnight. A rain sensor can help you make sure that you don’t waste water irrigating after a heavy rainfall, and can also help keep you from overwatering. One deep watering is far superior to several shallow waterings. Watering deeply encourages the deep growth of roots, which ensures a healthier lawn overall.
\n\n\n\nIf your lawn is tall fescue, don’t let it dry out and die during its summer dormancy. Keep up your watering schedule especially if the summer has an extended hot and dry period.
If you are manually watering with a sprinkler, wait until your lawn is thirst to water. You can tell by observing the blades of grass– if they are folding or curling slightly, they are dehydrated. Thirsty grass also takes on a slightly bluish cast and footprints will remain visible for a minute or so. Watering at this point is perfect for preventing damage and maintaining perfect lawn health.
Applying fertilizer in the heat of the season can potentially burn the turf. Save fertilizer application for spring and fall, and stop applying fertilizer at least a month in advance of hot weather.
\n\n\n\nDo you have questions about lawn care in Charlotte? Be sure to check out our Charlotte, N.C., lawn care page.
\n","title":"Basic Guide to Lawn Mowing and Maintenance in Charlotte","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2.0652777777777778,"src":"/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/1789c/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/107df/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.jpg 320w,\n/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/293e9/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.jpg 500w,\n/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/f2cbb/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.jpg 800w,\n/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/1789c/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.jpg 960w,\n/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/e0f2f/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.jpg 1487w","srcWebp":"/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/1dd6e/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/67b76/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.webp 320w,\n/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/8df11/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.webp 500w,\n/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/98a65/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.webp 800w,\n/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/1dd6e/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.webp 960w,\n/static/d76c254d8a5e37794e870219b4ad6c76/3a3fa/rsz_tall-fescue-festuca_arundinacea-wikimedia.webp 1487w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Basic Guide to Lawn Mowing and Maintenance in Charlotte | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}}],"id":"ck1161e48ymxk0a30rqpgk0sc"}}}![David-Pierre Mangiapan](\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Zoysia_Tenuifolia_aspect.JPG\"){kind=link}