![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/15037160035_4ed81031c8_c-1.jpg\")
Located in the northwest of Oregon, Portland is a unique city with its endless landscapes, panoramic vistas, and beautiful hiking trails. You can truly enjoy the endless wonders that mother nature has to offer. With the best native plants for Portland, you can have a piece of that natural landscape in your own backyard. Taking […]
\n","content":"\nLocated in the northwest of Oregon, Portland is a unique city with its endless landscapes, panoramic vistas, and beautiful hiking trails. You can truly enjoy the endless wonders that mother nature has to offer. With the best native plants for Portland, you can have a piece of that natural landscape in your own backyard.
\n\n\n\nTaking into consideration Portland’s climate and its plant hardiness zone, we have come up with a native plants list to help you get started on redefining your outdoor landscape.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nPortland lies in USDA plant hardiness zones 8b and 9a. When doing your research, make sure the plants you select are suitable for this city in Multnomah County. Plants that are listed as native to Oregon may not necessarily thrive in Portland. They could be more suitable for southern or eastern parts of the state.
\n\n\n\nThe plants we’ve covered below are a great fit for your Portland lawn:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVine maple is most commonly grown as a large shrub, but also works as a small to medium-sized tree. It develops multi trunks with reddish-green bark. Its foliage is bright green in spring, with attractive shades of orange and red in the fall. Vine maple has tiny purple and white flowers that are borne in short clusters, followed by red-winged fruits that are consumed by mammals and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nTo control this native tree’s shape, prune during the dormant season. Vine maple performs well in cooler climates, and can be used as a very attractive lawn specimen.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Small tree, shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness zones: 6 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand, clay, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 30 feet, sometimes reaching up to 40 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Amelancheir_alnifolia_-_Saskatoon_serviceberry_-_Flickr_-_Matt_Lavin-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSaskatoon serviceberry is a deciduous plant that can be used as an attractive, ornamental shrub. Known for being drought-tolerant, the shrub has a foliage of light green leaves that turn orange-red in the fall.
\n\n\n\nIn mid-spring, compact clusters of white flowers emerge just before the leaves. They are followed by sweet, blue-colored berries in early summer. These berries are consumed by both humans and songbirds. Additionally, saskatoon serviceberry is a great plant for erosion control.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loamy or sandy; well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Lightly scented
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 16 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Alder.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Chris Light / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis medium-sized, deciduous tree is the largest American alder. It has a thin, smooth bark that is often covered with moss. In early to mid-spring, long male catkins dangle like Christmas decorations near the bare branch tips. They release clouds of pollen that attract bees and other insects.
\n\n\n\nAlder species support 255 species of caterpillars, and provide shelter for many native birds. Consider adding red alder to your landscape and help boost Portland’s ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet and delicate spice scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – April
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average, high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 40 to 50 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Redosier-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRed osier dogwood is a medium-sized, ornamental shrub that adds beauty to the winter landscape. It has a rapid growth rate, and is adaptable to most soils. Its foliage consists of medium to dark green leaves which turn red-purple in fall. This perennial shrub produces fragrant, creamy-white flowers that give way to clusters of white berries. These attractive berries are often devoured by birds.
\n\n\n\nRed osier dogwood is a highly-attractive perennial that adds color in the dull and snowy months of winter.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Distinctive and pleasant smell
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May – October
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average, high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 9 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Oregon](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Oregon-White-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: MyName (Jamidwyer (talk)) / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNative to the West Coast, the Oregon white oak is a perennial tree that may live up to 500 years. It develops narrow crowns with small branches on clear, straight stems. Male and female flowers appear separately with new foliage in spring. The acorns ripen from August to November during the first season after flowering.
\n\n\n\nMore importantly, both the acorns and foliage are a valuable source of high-protein food for many animals. Plating white oaks will be your way of supporting Portland’s wildlife habitat.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Dry, gravelly soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 40 to 90 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Acorns and young leaves are poisonous to humans and pets
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bitter-Cherry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dcrjsr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis deciduous, shrub-like tree is commonly used in bird or bee gardens. With a silvery-gray bark, this native perennial produces white flowers which grow in thickets. They are followed by small, fleshy drupes which are red-black in color. Adding to that, the fruit is inedible to humans. With its attractive flowers and fruit, bitter cherry is an aesthetically pleasing addition to your garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist soils with good drainage
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Soft honey scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 45 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Seeds found inside the fruits contain poisonous substances and should not be eaten
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Oregon](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Oregon-Grape-Holly.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The original uploader was Meggar at English Wikipedia. / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOregon grape holly is an evergreen, ornamental shrub that is the state flower of Oregon. Its foliage of evergreen leaves emerges bronze-red in spring before turning burgundy in fall. In spring, bright golden-yellow flowers appear just before the leaves. They are lightly-fragrant and attract many pollinators. These flowers are followed by edible berries that resemble small grapes and attract wildlife.
\n\n\n\nOverall, Oregon grape holly is another great addition to your backyard, attracting pollinators and supporting the local wildlife habitat.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial sun, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Flowers smell like honey
\n\n\n\nBloom time: February – May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low, average
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pacific-Bleeding-Heart-Dicentra-formosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPacific bleeding heart is a spreading, rhizomatous perennial that is easily grown in fertile, well-drained soils. It is adorned with a gray-green foliage and short racemes of nodding, heart-shaped flowers. They bloom from late spring to early summer.
\n\n\n\nIt is important to note that the foliage may aggravate skin allergies, so wear gloves when handling this herbaceous perennial.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Flowers have a delicate, sweet scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All parts may cause stomach upset if ingested. Foliage may aggravate skin allergies
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Man's](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bigleaf-Maple.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Geographer at English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.5
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBigleaf maple is a large, deciduous tree with a rounded crown of massive, spreading branches. It is the largest maple species in North America. The deeply-lobed leaves mature to dark green before turning yellowish-orange in the fall. They give way to two-winged samaras that turn brown when ripe.
\n\n\n\nIt requires very little pruning, and attracts many wildlife species. Bigleaf maple is perfect for homeowners who wish to keep a low-maintenance lawn.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 40 to 70 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\nAs mentioned before, not all Oregon native plants are suitable for Portland. In addition to that, you need to consider the following key points when choosing plants for your garden:
\n\n\n\nAs their name suggests, invasive plants are not native to Portland or the state of Oregon. They invade sites where Portland native plants grow, deny their proper growth, and even harm the local wildlife habitat. Learning about invasive plants and how to deal with them will help preserve your area’s ecosystem.
According to Oregon State University, here are some invasive plant species found in Portland:
• Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum)
• English ivy (Hedera helix)
• Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia)
• English holly (Ilex aquifolium)
The Pacific Northwest offers a variety of edible fruit plants that we can locate and enjoy. After all, they are Portland native plants that can be found throughout nature. Despite the upcoming plant list, you must always be cautious with the plant you pick fruits off. If you’re not sure whether a specific fruit is edible, just be safe and avoid it altogether.
Below are some edible fruit plants in the city of Portland:
• Evergreen huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum)
• Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana)
• Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis)
• Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflora)
Portland’s climate allows cool-season grasses to thrive. Warm-season grasses are not recommended for this area, as they are not simply not suited for the weather conditions in northern Oregon.
The most common grasses planted in Portland are mixtures of perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass.
If your lawn has to endure heavy foot traffic, Kentucky bluegrass is the perfect it. Perennial ryegrass is known for its rapid growth, and its adaptability in drought conditions. Based on your lifestyle and lawn needs, be sure to select the proper type of turfgrass.
Plant species native to Portland naturally grow in wetlands, national parks, forests, or even near your home. But if you’re struggling to locate them, there are several nurseries that sell native plants, including Birds and Bees Nursery, Garden Fever!, and Livingscape Nursery.
\n\n\n\nOther Portland native plants to consider include:
\n\n\n\nLooking to revamp your outdoor living space? With several low-maintenance landscaping ideas that include xeriscaping features and native perennials, you can design a distinctive and attractive outdoor space with minimal yard work.
\n\n\n\nA low-maintenance lawn will still need some amount of care. Hire a lawn care professional near you who can handle the yard’s mowing, edging, or trimming.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Pioneer Courthouse Square / David Wilson / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"9 Best Native Plants for Portland, Oregon","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/1789c/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/107df/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.jpg 320w,\n/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/293e9/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.jpg 500w,\n/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/f2cbb/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.jpg 800w,\n/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/1789c/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.jpg 960w,\n/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/c26c2/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/1dd6e/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/67b76/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.webp 320w,\n/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/8df11/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.webp 500w,\n/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/98a65/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.webp 800w,\n/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/1dd6e/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.webp 960w,\n/static/4990b1f16dffba660740e077df41dcec/3cc96/Pioneer-Courthouse-Square-Portland-OR.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Best Native Plants for Portland, Oregon","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"This article will explore the best native plants for Portland, along with their characteristics and benefits for the local wildlife habitat."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"1bb85753-2311-561e-877f-9f400556d157","slug":"best-grass-types-california","path":"/lawn-care/ca/best-grass-types-california/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"From Eureka to Palm Springs, homeowners all over California seek picturesque lawns to complement their landscaping. But what grass should you choose? While it depends on your specific region, some grass types do well in large portions of the state. The best grass types for California will survive and thrive in local conditions. Let’s break […]
\n","content":"\nFrom Eureka to Palm Springs, homeowners all over California seek picturesque lawns to complement their landscaping. But what grass should you choose? While it depends on your specific region, some grass types do well in large portions of the state.
\n\n\n\nThe best grass types for California will survive and thrive in local conditions. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each grass type, including which part of the state they can grow in.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nGrass types break down into two categories based on growth patterns: cool-season and warm-season. Cool-season grasses do best in the northern part of the United States, and warm-season grasses do best in the southern part. In the middle is the transition zone, where you can grow either type.
\n\n\n\nSince California is a large state, it spans the cool-season, transition, and warm-season zones. Cool-season grasses grow in northern, central, and coastal regions. Warm-season grasses grow in southern and central California.
\n\n\n\nWhile those in the far north or south of the state may be limited to either cool or warm-season grasses, most of California can grow either. Here are some critical differences between cool- and warm-season grasses to consider.
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agrostis_pallens_turf.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ruff tuff cream puff / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere are multiple types of bentgrass available in California. Due to its high maintenance, creeping bentgrass is usually reserved for golf courses and lawn tennis courts. However, California native bentgrass is more suitable for home lawns. It has a medium texture, uniform growth pattern, and deep green color. It also is known as Agrostis pallens or seashore bentgrass.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia native bentgrass requires half the water of typical cool-season grasses. When faced with heavy foot traffic, its self-repairing rhizomes will heal damage. Plant it in full sun for the best growth. You can mow native bentgrass like a traditional lawn or grow it into a meadow. If you cut it back down after growing it out, gradually lower the mowing height to avoid damage.
\n\n\n\nThough California native bentgrass has many advantages, its slow growth may deter some people. Its seeds establish slowly, and sod is pricier than other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low; you can mow it or let it grow out
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-8
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Any soil with good drainage
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This grass can be mowed or left long and meadow-like. It is best suited for coastal areas.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis state may not be Kentucky, but this grass can still grow well in Northern and Central California. Kentucky bluegrass is deep green with a medium texture. It creates a dense turf.
\n\n\n\nThis grass type grows well from fall through spring and needs moderate maintenance. It has an excellent cold tolerance, which makes it suitable for the intermountain west. Plant it in yards with full sun or some shade. Though Kentucky bluegrass is vulnerable to traffic damage, it will self-repair.
\n\n\n\nSummer is the slowest growing season for this grass. It will survive droughts by going dormant but become vulnerable to weeds and diseases if stressed by heat, dehydration, and poor soil quality. Kentucky bluegrass is often mixed with at least 15% perennial ryegrass to improve its performance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate — prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate, but will survive by going dormant
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, but recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency; a high-maintenance grass
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Good drainage, fertile
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Produces a dense lawn under ideal conditions; many of these traits (shade tolerance, drought resistance, etc.) vary widely by cultivar, with newer cultivars generally being hardier, more resistant to disease, etc.; mow taller in summer; most often mixed with other species, such as tall fescue, in home lawns
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRich green and fine-textured perennial ryegrass is commonly mixed with other turfgrasses but also can be used on its own. It’s primarily found in Northern and Central California, with some viability in Southern California. It does exceptionally well in the moderate temperatures of coastal California.
\n\n\n\nThis grass type is moderate to high maintenance, depending on your desired mowing height. Due to its quick germination, perennial ryegrass is competitive against weeds and tolerates traffic well. You can plant it in full sun or partial shade. Since it is a cool-season grass, it has an excellent cold tolerance.
\n\n\n\nSome people use perennial ryegrass to improve the performance of Kentucky bluegrass lawns or preserve the color of bermudagrass lawns in winter. However, perennial ryegrass’ competitive growth could lead to it overpowering other grass types. It has a low tolerance for shade, heat, and drought.
\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 tolerance: Low (may go dormant in summer)
\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\nRecommended mowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Fertile with good drainage
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Most often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass 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). It needs moderate levels of fertilizer.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis grass is the most common turfgrass in the state. It has a coarse texture, but the turf-type and dwarf-type tall fescue varieties have a finer texture and shorter height.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue has a relatively good heat and drought tolerance for cool-season grass. It stays green in warm and cool weather but may turn brown in severe cold. Sunny or partially sunny yards are ideal for growth. When densely sown, this grass will have a uniform texture and strong resistance to diseases and weeds.
\n\n\n\nThough it can handle moderate traffic, it won’t fill in damaged patches due to its bunch-type growth habit. Reseed the lawn if you see thinning or bare spots. Tall fescue doesn’t grow well in high altitudes, so don’t use it if you live in the mountains.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grass
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate, but low ability to recuperate from wear
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Fast rate of growth, so plan to mow often
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-4 inches (many tall fescue lawns grow best when they’re mowed on the tall side); do not mow less than 1.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate under proper management conditions
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Fertile, good drainage, but will tolerate a wider range of soil conditions
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Reseed every few years to repair bare spots and thinning; don’t plant old varieties such as Kentucky-31; look for “turf-type” tall fescue (TTTF). Seed blends with more than one TTTF cultivar give the best chance for a strong lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDepending on the variety, bermudagrass ranges from gray-green to blue-green to dark green, with a fine to medium texture. It loves the warm weather of Southern California and the Central California coast.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is prepared to handle full sun, high temperatures, and drought. It’s an excellent choice for coastal properties due to its salinity tolerance. Due to its resilience to foot traffic, this grass is popular with families and pet owners. Its fast-growing nature allows it to withstand diseases and pests.
\n\n\n\nCold and shade will weaken this grass and leave it vulnerable to weeds and traffic damage. Long periods of cold weather will leave it brown, which makes it less suitable for Northern California. It also may pose problems in its active growth period. Many varieties require frequent mowing, fertilization, and dethatching. Without edging, it could spread to nearby gardens or yards.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases like spring dead spot are common; low resistance to insects like bermudagrass mites, dichondra flea beetles, and fiery skippers
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis grass type has a fine texture and grayish-green color. Buffalograss is native to North American Plains but can do well in California. Researchers at UC Davis and UC Riverside developed the UC Verde variety to suit this state’s hot, dry summers.
\n\n\n\nUC Verde buffalograss is very low-maintenance with good resistance to diseases and pests. It requires at least 50% less water than tall fescue and bermudagrass. You can mow as often as once a week or as infrequently as once a year, depending on how manicured or natural you want it to look. UC Verde is allergy-friendly due to the low number of seedheads produced.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss won’t die if you walk over it sometimes or hold the occasional backyard event, but it’s not a good choice if you expect lots of activity on your lawn. It’s also not suited for shady yards. Buffalograss may turn brown and dormant in winter and in summer drought but will recover well. Expect to pay a higher-than-average price whether you buy seed or sod.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Very low — best suited for full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Very low, but light use or rare heavy use is OK
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency — once per week or less
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-4 inches or leave unmowed; UC Verde doesn’t grow taller than 4-6 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers soils that aren’t sandy
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Buffalograss often turns brown in winter. Because of its few flowerheads, it produces little pollen and seeds, making it suitable for those with allergies.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bubble-on-St.-Augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you live on the SoCal coast or in the coastal valleys, consider St. Augustinegrass. It produces a dense lawn with broad leaves and a medium green color.
\n\n\n\nThis grass has few weeds and pest problems. It also can handle drought and salinity. St. Augustinegrass thrives in moderate temperatures and grows most in summer, with slow growth in spring and fall and dormancy in winter. It is one of the best warm-season grasses for shady yards but will do best in full sun.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass isn’t ideal for the cold northernmost regions of California. It requires frequent mowing, fertilization, and dethatching to keep it healthy. This grass is better for decorative lawns than high-use ones due to low traffic tolerance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; watch out for iron deficiency, fiery skippers, and Southern chinch bugs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysiagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach at the English Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass creates dense, uniform, prickly turf. It has a medium to fine texture and dark green color. It does well in Southern California and the coasts of Central and Northern California.
\n\n\n\nThis low-maintenance has few pest problems and resists drought, heat, and foot traffic. The most drought-tolerant variety is Zoysia japonica. Though Zoysiagrass needs little fertilizer, fall fertilization can improve its typically brown winter color. Plant it in full sun or partial shade.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass establishes slowly, but the “DeAnza,” “El Toro,” “Emerald,” and “Victoria” varieties establish quicker. Use sod instead of plugs if you want an instant lawn. This grass type requires moderate mowing to avoid scalping. Dethatch yearly to avoid matting. A thatch-filled Zoysiagrass lawn will be challenging to mow evenly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Not prone to disease and insects; good disease tolerance overall; watch out for nematodes
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining; some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if the grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\nCalifornia not only has a diverse culture but a diverse climate. You can narrow your turfgrass choices by general regions, such as Northern, Central, and Southern.
\n\n\n\nThe grass types listed under each region will work in most of that area. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean every city will be well-suited for those grass types or that you can’t use other grass types. For example, you will still need to consider whether you live by the ocean, inland, or in the mountains, as growing conditions will vary greatly.
\n\n\n\nSeashore bentgrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and tall fescue can stay green all year in California. These grasses may need irrigation to maintain their color year-round. Severe temperatures and drought also may cause lawns to turn brown and dormant.
The most heat-tolerant grass types in California include tall fescue, Zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, and buffalograss. Keep in mind that heat tolerance does not always equal drought tolerance. Just because a lawn can handle a heat wave doesn’t mean it won’t want water.
If you don’t want to spend all your time mowing, fertilizing, and irrigating your lawn, consider seashore bentgrass, UC Verde buffalograss, or Zoysiagrass.
The most drought-tolerant grass types in California are bentgrass, bermudagrass, buffalograss, and Zoysiagrass.
Turfgrasses and other plants do best when they’re well-adapted to the area. California native plants are more likely to be low-maintenance and fire-resistant than non-native plants. That said, non-native plants can still be adapted to the California climate and suit your needs.
\n\n\n\nEven when broken down into Northern, Southern, and Central, California has many climates and soil types. Your property may face unique challenges that make landscaping by yourself difficult or time-consuming.
A local lawn care or landscaping professional can take yard chores off your to-do list and provide grass and plant recommendations based on your unique needs. Wikilawn can connect you with pros in Los Angeles, San Jose, Bakersfield, and many other California cities.
Main Photo Credit: Sonoma Plaza / Carlton A. Lear / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"8 Best Grass Types for California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4796547472256474,"src":"/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/1789c/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/107df/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..jpg 320w,\n/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/293e9/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..jpg 500w,\n/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/f2cbb/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..jpg 800w,\n/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/1789c/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..jpg 960w,\n/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/c26c2/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/1dd6e/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/67b76/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..webp 320w,\n/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/8df11/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..webp 500w,\n/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/98a65/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..webp 800w,\n/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/1dd6e/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..webp 960w,\n/static/9a8d42ef28448436d946885b593e8bf1/3cc96/Sonoma-Plaza-in-Sonoma-California-a-registered-national-historical-landmark..webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Grass Types for California","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best grass types for California depend on which part of the state you live in. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each of the eight turfgrasses."}}},{"node":{"id":"6cdf929c-6ad5-577b-95e6-d5fde1b1fb29","slug":"washington-dc-guide-to-watering-the-lawn","path":"/lawn-care/washington-dc/washington-dc-guide-to-watering-the-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jackie Greene is a blogger, gardener, and nutrition enthusiast. She enjoys creating organic meals for family and friends using the fresh ingredients she produces from her backyard homestead.","name":"Jackie Greene","id":"fb5923e1-833b-5d9b-808e-ded0e62c0bc4","path":"/author/jackiegreene/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c1121209a3ebfbe0a7e941d102b2971?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"30ecf80b-c320-5679-942e-29dcd7b95c66","name":"Washington DC","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/washington-dc/"}],"date":"April 3rd, 2019","excerpt":"Washington DC is a great place to be during springtime and summer with its moderately but not overly hot temperatures. This area is not a stranger to drought, however it usually gets the brunt of its rainfall in the peak of summer (which is great for lawn care). Conserving water has turned into a nationwide […]
\n","content":"\nWashington DC is a great place to be during springtime and summer with its moderately but not overly hot temperatures. This area is not a stranger to drought, however it usually gets the brunt of its rainfall in the peak of summer (which is great for lawn care). Conserving water has turned into a nationwide initiative, so we made an article that outlines tips on how to conserve water while maintaining the beautiful lush lawn that we all strive for.
\n\n\n\nIrrigation can offer a very efficient way in watering the lawn as well as a method for water conservation: if used correctly. Here are some tips in achieving the best irrigation practices.
\n\n\n\nCertain areas of the yard will not need as much water as other parts of the yard. Consider areas of the lawn that need no water at all, including driveways and sidewalks. Avoiding these areas will ensure there is no runoff water from your irrigation system. Heavily shaded areas do not need as much water as highly exposed areas however they will need a moderate amount. Obviously, the most exposed areas of the lawn need the most water. An irrigation system needs to work with these areas and they should be mapped out prior.
\n\n\n\nDrip Irrigation does very well in conserving water. It uses a drip technique that slowly releases water throughout the day, minimizing water lost by evaporation and runoff. These systems do well with smaller lawns or gardens and are not recommended for large lawns.
Automatic sprinkler systems are the most popular form of irrigation system for homeowners. They cover a wide area of land and have timer settings which leaves little to worry about. Homeowners should take into consideration that adjustments will need to be made throughout the year depending on the weather. If used correctly these systems can conserve water, however making sure there is no run off and that the sprinkler doesn’t hit any driveways or sidewalks is very important.
Hand watering can be therapeutic for some people. If hand watering is something you like to do, make sure the lawn is getting enough water and not too much. The soil should be able to give way with the length of a screwdriver an hour after watering. This method works for any lawn, but may take some time with a larger lawn.
For more information on irrigation and a detailed look on irrigation throughout the year click here.
\n\n\n\nIn any region, it is best practice to use native plants and trees of the area. These varieties work well with the climate of the region and do not need much additional water. The sprinkler systems should be geared more towards hydrating the grass and only slightly watering additional plants. Using these types of plants will conserve water and make your irrigation system not work as hard.
\n\n\n\nKeeping the grass at a medium height, at around 1.5- 2 inches, will shade the roots from sun exposure: meaning less water. If the lawn is cut shorter than this it will encourage grass roots to become short and shallow. This is not energy efficient and will require that the grass needs much more water to stay green.
\n\n\n\nEvery household should have a small water collector that measures the amount of rainfall each week. All too often there will be sprinklers running while it is raining. Try not to be this person. Your lawn only needs about an inch of water each week in total.
\n\n\n\nPro tip: You should also keep track of your own water usage around the home. You can do so in Washington DC by clicking here.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to water a lawn is in the morning between the hours of 6 and 10 a.m. You can also water in the evening, however this can lead to over watering of the lawn. The morning is optimal because there is a low evaporation rate and it allows the water to soak into the roots. Any leftover water will quickly be evaporated when the sun rises.
There are currently no water restrictions in Washington D.C. however there is an application that tracks how much water usage you have and alerts you when it is higher than normal.
\n\n\n\nRead more: The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority’s Landscaping & Watering Guide
\n\n\n\nStill looking for lawn care advice? Visit our Washington DC lawn care page, it’s the #1 lawn care resource for DC residents on the web!
\n\n\n\nTop Photo: Flickr // Zuzka Grujbárová
\n","title":"The 2019 Washington DC Guide to Watering your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5015015015015014,"src":"/static/74df005d34cb8a86a9e24b9871610f38/293e9/lawn-watering-washingon-dc.jpg","srcSet":"/static/74df005d34cb8a86a9e24b9871610f38/107df/lawn-watering-washingon-dc.jpg 320w,\n/static/74df005d34cb8a86a9e24b9871610f38/293e9/lawn-watering-washingon-dc.jpg 500w","srcWebp":"/static/74df005d34cb8a86a9e24b9871610f38/8df11/lawn-watering-washingon-dc.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/74df005d34cb8a86a9e24b9871610f38/67b76/lawn-watering-washingon-dc.webp 320w,\n/static/74df005d34cb8a86a9e24b9871610f38/8df11/lawn-watering-washingon-dc.webp 500w","sizes":"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 2019 Washington DC Guide to Watering your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"d9eec7c3-8636-5c74-95f8-73172b1546ec","slug":"native-plants-for-richmond-va","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/richmond/native-plants-for-richmond-va/","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":"08edb056-11a9-55f1-a92d-6400a6e86bbc","name":"Richmond","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/richmond/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"August 9th, 2019","excerpt":"Virginia’s rich and diverse ecology almost compels you to incorporate native plants into your landscape. Here is an introduction to a few of the most-colorful.
\n","content":"\nVirginia’s rich and diverse ecology almost compels you to incorporate native plants into your landscape. Local plants offer more support to wildlife, maintain biodiversity, and are adapted to the climate. They require far less care than their exotic counterparts and save you time and money with their minimal demands. Here is an introduction to just a few of the native plants for Richmond, Va.
\n\n\n\nA salt marsh and wetland species, these elegant beauties (pictured above) flower over a long period in the late summer to early fall. The creamy-white flowers have a deep red center and are a favorite of hummingbirds. They put on an impressive show, standing from 3-8 feet tall and performing well in sun or part shade. Rose mallow can be grown easily from seed, and will usually come back each spring after being cut back to a few inches from the ground.
\n\n\n\nThis short-lived perennial thrives in part shade and blooms from April to May. A favorite of hummingbirds, the bright, tubular flowers add vibrant cheer in spring. This lovely native plant for Richmond grows from one to three feet tall and will self-sow seeds each year, so you never need to worry about replanting.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/butterfly-milkweed-asclepias-tuberosa-credit-joshua-mayer-flickr.jpg\")
Of the many dozens of varieties of milkweed, only four are native to Virginia. If you only choose one, Asclepias tuberosa is a good choice, as it’s a host plant for monarch butterfly larvae. This cheerful, orange bloom proliferates from June to August, and keeps a low profile, growing 12-30 inches tall. This is a flexible species, performing well in either sun or part shade and requiring no care to thrive.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/GL84XK1PL_IKc5Id96fu9ZGi26UmBmc8x3YMmeiBaEcnuLDiGAIGSIpFrMgnaLtVRgsnuOyJnKiWkC2G9Zmk_-CQuLBDfUc0faFddib0lC46Dx3re5WOxPBvwn9wRiX0ikSyDLad\")
Growing 4-8 feet tall, this is the largest and most impressive native lily in the region. A single plant has been recorded with up to 40 blooms. This lily loves to bask in full sun and bursts into bloom from July to September. The distinctive blooms are impossible to ignore and make great showy cut flowers indoors.
\n\n\n\nIn a region sometimes plagued by deer and rabbits, the Christmas fern offers striking texture in the shade that is resistant to these midnight munchers. It stays green through Christmas, hence the name. This is a perfect plant to use in masses on slopes to prevent erosion. As long as there is some shade, it will perform well and reproduce slowly, over time.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/american-beautyberry-john-pavelka-flickr-1024x768.jpg\")
This deciduous shrub has loose, gracefully arching branches and bright, green foliage. It erupts into stunning clusters of purple berries in fall and winter, providing visual interest and forage for wildlife. American beautyberry performs best in full sun to part shade, making it an ideal understory shrub or edge planting. This small shrub requires almost no maintenance and provides a splash of color when most deciduous plants are going dormant.
\n\n\n\nThis is but a small sample of the many species native to our area. For a more comprehensive list, explore some of the resources provided by the state. Remember, a native landscape is one that gives more than it takes, providing you with more time spent enjoying your yard than maintaining it.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Richmond? Visit our Richmond. Va., lawn care page.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: Paul VanDerWerf, Flickr
\n","title":"Native Plants for Richmond, Va.","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.0788461538461538,"src":"/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/1789c/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/107df/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.jpg 320w,\n/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/293e9/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.jpg 500w,\n/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/f2cbb/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.jpg 800w,\n/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/1789c/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.jpg 960w,\n/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/82d62/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.jpg 1122w","srcWebp":"/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/1dd6e/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/67b76/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.webp 320w,\n/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/8df11/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.webp 500w,\n/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/98a65/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.webp 800w,\n/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/1dd6e/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.webp 960w,\n/static/d5ff8271db12da7450ed01417db7ad89/ab6ed/rose-mallow-credit-Paul-VanDerWerf-Flickr.webp 1122w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Native Plants for Richmond, Va. | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"a2686088-d2d1-5a1c-b532-7c5463bbae8f","slug":"best-grass-types-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/best-grass-types-dallas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"March 5th, 2019","excerpt":"With an average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit in October, it is easy to see why backyard barbecues and frozen margaritas are so popular in Dallas, Texas, and it would be a shame not to show off your lush, green yard. The best grass types for Dallas need little water to thrive in the city’s […]
\n","content":"\nWith an average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit in October, it is easy to see why backyard barbecues and frozen margaritas are so popular in Dallas, Texas, and it would be a shame not to show off your lush, green yard. The best grass types for Dallas need little water to thrive in the city’s hot summers. If you’re installing a new lawn or ready to take your existing yard from drab to fab, consider one of these options for results that will survive the Texas heat.
\n\n\n\nThe city’s hot summers, cold winters, and low precipitation levels are best suited to warm-season grass varieties. Warm-season grasses soak up the sun and actively grow during late spring and go dormant around mid-fall. These varieties grow best in the southern United States, preferring growing temperatures between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bidgee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is the most popular Texas grass variety. The hardy, fine-textured turfgrass withstands drought and heavy traffic, making it a durable and versatile option for athletic fields, home lawns, golf courses, and more. It is an aggressive grass that recovers quickly from damage, leading some to consider it an aggressive species.
\n\n\n\nDallas is home to many types of sun-loving bermudagrass. Common bermudagrass has a light green color and coarse texture, while hybrid cultivars have a finer texture and dark green appearance. Common bermudagrass requires less maintenance than hybrid varieties but is less dense with a more sparse appearance.
\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 can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nDeep roots are one thing Texans and St. Augustinegrass have in common. This warm-season grass is a popular choice for urban Dallas thanks to its shade tolerance. While the quick-growing grass is easy to establish, it does not stand up well to heavy traffic and might struggle during unusually cold Texas winters.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is dark-emerald to blue-green and coarse-textured. It is not as hardy as other warm-season grass types and is susceptible to disease and pests like chinch bugs.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysia-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThere are around eleven cultivars of Zoysiagrass available in Texas. These grasses tolerate low mow heights, drought, cold, shade, and heavy traffic, and have low fertilization requirements. Cultivars of Zoysiagrass grow densely, blocking out weed growth thanks to thick stiff leaf blades.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. Cultivars are not prone to disease or insect infestation but grow slowly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: 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![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/buffalograss.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nTexas native Buffalograss loves to be undisturbed to soak in the Dallas sun. The warm-season grass is drought and cold-tolerant. It requires little fertilization and less mowing than most varieties. Unfortunately, the low-fuss cultivar does not stand up to heavy traffic, shade, or weeds.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss loves hot summers and its gray-green blades are pest and disease resistant.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Very low — best suited for full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Very low, but light use or rare heavy use is OK
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency — once per week or less
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches or leave unmowed
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native soils, not sandy soils
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is a low-maintenance cultivar, requiring little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain lush and green. The smooth, flat-bladed grass does not handle heavy traffic, shade, cold, or herbicides well.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass has a pronounced light green color and medium texture. The slow-growing grass is prone to pests and disease when improperly maintained or over watered.
\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; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow when the Texas temperatures hit 65 degrees Fahrenheit, usually toward the end of February or the beginning of March. The growing season typically ends with your grass going dormant when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit around mid-November.
You should plant your grass seed in March or April. This gives the seed plenty of time to germinate before the hot Texas summer.
St. Augustinegrass is the most shade-friendly grass type for Dallas.
Dogs and cats love to soak up the summer sun as much as your Texas plants. If your furry friend spends a lot of time outdoors, bermudagrass is your best option. This variety grows densely, withstands heavy traffic, and recovers quickly when man’s best friend has the urge to dig.
All Texas grass varieties thrive in warm weather, but different cultivars have different characteristics and needs. Choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nYour grass variety is just one component of your complete landscape. There are numerous low-maintenance landscaping options available for Dallas. Check out our list of the best native plants that will thrive in the dry summer heat.
\n\n\n\nA lush backyard oasis is within reach. Contact a Dallas lawn care pro today to keep your lawn and landscaping green and healthy.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Dallas, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4943960149439601,"src":"/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/1789c/Grass-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/107df/Grass-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/293e9/Grass-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/f2cbb/Grass-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/1789c/Grass-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/c26c2/Grass-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/1dd6e/Grass-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/67b76/Grass-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/8df11/Grass-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/98a65/Grass-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/1dd6e/Grass-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/3cc96/Grass-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Dallas, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, drought-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Dallas, and these five species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"57703967-635b-543e-8ae0-b2e60809557b","slug":"best-native-plants-southern-california","path":"/lawn-care/ca/best-native-plants-southern-california/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"If you’ve been to the California Botanic Garden or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, you know how beautiful native plants can be. Native species are not only well-adapted to the local climate but are also: Do you want to introduce native species to your garden? The best native plants for Southern California gardens will vary […]
\n","content":"\nIf you’ve been to the California Botanic Garden or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, you know how beautiful native plants can be. Native species are not only well-adapted to the local climate but are also:
\n\n\n\nDo you want to introduce native species to your garden? The best native plants for Southern California gardens will vary by region, as well as the needs and preferences of each homeowner.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bush-Sunflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: tdlucas5000 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as California brittlebush, this bushy shrub is native to the coastlines and inland foothills of SoCal. It has thin branches with widely spaced leaves. It produces yellow flowers with a brown center, quite similar to daisies. They bloom from February through June when temperatures are moderate, and moisture is adequate.
\n\n\n\nBush sunflowers attract small birds, butterflies, bees, and other insects. They are fast-growing, low-maintenance, and drought-tolerant. You also can use them as a ground cover or for erosion control.
\n\n\n\nWhile their reseeding ability may save you time and money, bush sunflowers may out-compete other plants and invade spaces where they aren’t wanted. They also don’t look appealing during their late summer and fall dormancy. This shrub does best in sunny yards where temperatures won’t drop below freezing.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 ⅗ to 5 feet tall, 3 to 7 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates a wide variety of soils, including sodic soil; does best when pH is between 6 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_5965186545_e6a73bf093_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: chuck b. / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nYou can find this flower all over California, right up to the Oregon and Mexican borders. It naturally grows on the coast and all over the foothills. In Southern California, it often grows near water sources to counteract the dry climate. California fuchsia produces red flowers in summer and fall, then dies back in winter.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to attract hummingbirds, this plant is a must-have. Their affinity for the plant has earned it the alternate names hummingbird trumpet or flower. It’s easy to grow, reseeds itself, and flowers profusely in full sun. It’s also included on some fire-resistant plant lists.
\n\n\n\nUnless it is near a natural water source, California fuchsia will need more supplemental water inland than on the coast. Water it around once a month to keep it hydrated. This herb’s appearance will suffer somewhat in fall or winter when flowering is over. You can improve its appearance by cutting it back when flowering is over.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: ¼ to 1 ½ feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Winter semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay and sand with a pH between 6 and 8; they also tolerate serpentine soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/California-milkweed-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe Decruyenaere / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nNamed for its white sap, the California milkweed is an herbaceous plant found from the East Bay down and in the Sierra foothills. It has white wooly stems, and its fuzzy buds burst into star-shaped flowers.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia milkweed’s most important role is hosting endangered monarch butterflies and caterpillars. As a result, avoid pesticides to keep these butterflies safe. California milkweed also attracts bees and other insects. This plant can tolerate sandy, clay, dry, or moist soils and is cold-hardy as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Water it deeply twice a month to keep it healthy.
\n\n\n\nThe Kawaiisu tribes cooked California milkweed sap to create a gum-like candy and roasted the leaves for chewing. Though it is edible to humans when cooked, it may be toxic raw. It’s safest to keep this plant away from children, pets, and livestock.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy or clay with a pH between 6 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic raw, but not when cooked
\n\n\n\n![\"This](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/California-Poppy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: docentjoyce / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nIt’s no surprise the state flower made it onto this list. The California poppy grows all over the state and in neighboring states as well, including Oregon. Its appearance varies slightly depending on location, with SoCal poppies more yellow than orange. The flowers can bloom any time between February and September, though they shut in cold, cloudy, or windy weather.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia poppies can tolerate poor-quality soil, full sun, partial shade, and drought. They will do best in well-drained sandy soils. Water twice a month once established. This flower makes a welcome addition to butterfly, bee, or bird gardens. Its quick-growing and self-seeding nature may spread it more than you intended but can create a beautiful meadow in your yard.
\n\n\n\nThough California poppies will generally last for years, they may burn out quicker in the hottest and coldest parts of Southern California. Poppies aren’t safe for pets or small children to eat due to their mild toxicity.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb or flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 inches to 2 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial in mild climates and annual in harsh conditions
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained sandy soils with a pH between 5 and 8; tolerates poor soil quality
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Mildly toxic if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"small](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/California-sagebrush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Antandrus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDo you love aromatic plants? The hairy, light green leaves of the California sagebrush release a pleasant smell when touched. It produces small, inconspicuous creamy white flowers. This shrub is also called Coastal sagebrush due to its prominence along the California coastline.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia sagebrush is tough, easy to grow, and drought-tolerant. It can survive in the driest, sunniest areas where other plants can’t. It may not need any supplementary water, but you can water it once a month if needed. Use it as a garden shrub or a groundcover. You also can plant it to attract California gnatcatchers, quails, and many other birds and insects.
\n\n\n\nThis shrub poses no known danger to humans or animals. However, rain may leach toxins from California sagebrush and discourage other plant growth nearby.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 to 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, sandy soils with a pH of 5 to 8; tolerates low fertility and clay soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Extremely low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Some toxicity toward other plants, but no known danger to humans or pets
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chalk-Dudleya.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re a fan of succulents, consider chalk dudleya. You also may know it by the names chalk liveforever or chalk lettuce. It naturally grows in rocky coastal areas, desert foothills, and inland mountains. Its thick, water-dense leaves are pale green with pointy ends. Though its shape may look flower-like, the real flowers will develop on tall stems in spring.
\n\n\n\nThis succulent relies on hummingbirds and bees for pollination. When mature, it can handle extreme heat and below-freezing temperatures. Chalk dudleya does well in full sun, but south-facing specimens benefit from partial shade. Don’t panic if the outer leaves turn white, tan, pink, or purple. As long as the inside looks alive, it’s likely just dormant. Water it once a month to improve its appearance.
\n\n\n\nChalk dudleya is easy to grow on rocky slopes and walls but not when planted on flat ground because it collects too much water. Watch out for aphid infestations, as they could cause deformity.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb or succulent
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: ⅓ to 1 foot tall and 1 foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Fast or medium-drained soils with plenty of rocks and a soil pH between 5 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Checker-Bloom.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe checker bloom is a type of mallow found all over the state. It primarily grows in dry, open flats between sea level and 7,500 feet elevation. This plant has bright green leaves and produces dark pink flowers in spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nChecker bloom is suitable for ornamental and pollinator gardens. You also can use it as a groundcover. It needs little water and can get by with water once a month or less in summer. You can plant it in a variety of soil types in sunny or partially shady yards.
\n\n\n\nMild, damp winters and dry, cool summers best suit this plant. However, it can survive in temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a colder part of SoCal, you can use mulch to protect checker bloom from freezing temperatures. Because of its short stature, you’ll need to place it in front of tall plants so it’s not obscured.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: ⅓ to 1 ½ feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Summer semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates many soil types with a pH between 6 and 7, including serpentine soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and edible
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cleveland-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Phyzome / Flickr / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDespite what the name implies, Cleveland sage is native to the Golden State. It is also called blue sage, fragrant sage, or chaparral sage. Its natural habitat is well-drained flats, bluffs, and gentle slopes in coastal areas. This aromatic shrub is gray-green in color with small, wrinkled leaves. It produces round purple flower clusters in spring and summer. Flower color varies between cultivars.
\n\n\n\nCleveland sage is a great choice for hummingbird and bee gardens. It’s not just useful for animals — dry its fragrant leaves for cooking or just to enjoy the scent. This shrub can handle many soil types and temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant it as an ornamental plant or for erosion control.
\n\n\n\nThis plant needs very little irrigation. While this trait is generally beneficial, it’s possible to overwater Cleveland sage in summer, killing it or shortening its lifespan.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3 to 4 ½ feet tall and 8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates a variety of soils but does best in well-drained soils with a pH between 6 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Hummingbird-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jerry Kirkhart / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHummingbird sage is native to Central and Southern California. It grows anywhere between sea level and 2,000 feet but is mostly found on shady slopes, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub. This plant has a woody base and is covered with soft hairs. It produces fragrant magenta flowers from March to May. Its leaves also are aromatic when crushed.
\n\n\n\nHummingbird sage is valued for its appearance and scent. Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies flock to its flowers as a food source. Because of its sprawling growth habit, you can use it as a groundcover. It can handle sun or shade but does particularly well under dense tree cover. Hummingbird sage can handle temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nThis plant is drought-tolerant and may not need supplemental irrigation after its first year. However, it may lose some leaves and visual appeal in summer. Water hummingbird sage once or twice a month to keep it green in hot weather, and prune it if you want a neater appearance.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 inches to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, or full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Various soils with a pH between 5 and 7
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bush-Monkey-Flower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nMonkeys may not be native to California, but monkey flowers are. The bush monkey flower grows throughout most of California. It’s also called sticky monkey flower due to its sticky green leaves. Its tubular flowers are typically orange but also may be white, yellow, or red. If you or a pollinator touch the flower’s stigma, it will shut.
\n\n\n\nBush monkey flowers will attract hummingbirds, bees, and other insects. The leaves and flowers are edible, and Native Americans used them for medicinal purposes. Once established, water it once or twice a month in summer.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to increase flower production and get rid of unappealing faded blooms, prune the old growth and seedheads. Be careful not to cut off buds in the process.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 5 feet tall and 5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates many soil types, including serpentine soils, as long as drainage is adequate; ideal pH is between 5 and 8
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic and edible
\n\n\n\nPeople from out of state may only see SoCal as sunny coastlines, but residents know there’s more to it. A Southern Californian may live by the beach, mountains, or desert, and each will have its own gardening challenges. Focus on plants that fall in your USDA hardiness zone, which is based on average annual low temperatures. SoCal falls in zones 7 through 10.
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zones can’t tell you everything. They don’t account for your yard’s layout, soil makeup, shade levels, and proximity to water sources. Consider getting a soil test, especially if your garden plants have struggled in the past. University of California Cooperative Extensions can connect you with local soil testing labs.
\n\n\n\nThe final factor to consider is you. Consider what features you value, whether it be visual appeal, scent, drought tolerance, safety, or practicality.
\n\n\n\nFor erosion control or bank stabilization, consider planting bush sunflower or Cleveland sage.
Yes. Chalk dudleya is one of the best choices for SoCal, but there are hundreds of other succulents native to the state.
It depends on where you are and which succulents you plant. Southern California generally has mild winters. While some cities may never see a day below 40 degrees, a few places in SoCal have temperatures below freezing and could get as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some succulents, like chalk dudleya, can survive freezing temperatures. However, others are more sensitive and may not survive a cold snap. If you see an unusual temperature drop on your weather channel or app, you can take in any potted succulents, just in case.
Keep in mind that your succulents will get more rain in winter as well. Don’t water them yourself this time of year, and make sure they are in well-drained soil.
It’s easy enough to swing by your local nursery for one or two native plants. However, some homeowners choose to transform their yards into entirely native gardens. They also might replace their lawn with a more suitable turfgrass for improved drought resistance.
The more changes you make, the more time you’ll need to commit. Even the most passionate green thumb may need a helping hand. Wikilawn can connect you with landscaping and lawn care professionals in your area, whether you live in San Diego, Los Angeles, Long Beach, or another SoCal city.
Main Image Credit: Epibase / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Southern California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.2698412698412698,"src":"/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/1789c/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/107df/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/293e9/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/f2cbb/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/1789c/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/c26c2/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/1dd6e/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/67b76/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 320w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/8df11/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 500w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/98a65/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 800w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/1dd6e/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 960w,\n/static/b4f13e1791abcb0ed395d1a0a8aa9069/3cc96/1280px-Eschscholzia_californica_2-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Southern California | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best native plants for Southern California include shrubs, wildflowers, and succulents that survive heat, drought, and cold snaps."}}},{"node":{"id":"7d466487-679b-5f3e-8e63-5a35909ad337","slug":"drought-resistant-landscaping-montana","path":"/lawn-care/mt/drought-resistant-landscaping-montana/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"851f9dd2-d0b9-5a5b-a0a0-cf65224620d5","name":"Montana","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/mt/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"Montana is rich in natural resources, wildlife, unique vegetation, and adventure. The Treasure State’s geographic diversity and altitudinal ranges create variable climates. Western Montana is mountainous, with cool summers and snowy winters, while central and eastern Montana experience warmer summers and cold winters. No matter where you live in Big Sky Country, there are drought-resistant […]
\n","content":"\nMontana is rich in natural resources, wildlife, unique vegetation, and adventure. The Treasure State’s geographic diversity and altitudinal ranges create variable climates. Western Montana is mountainous, with cool summers and snowy winters, while central and eastern Montana experience warmer summers and cold winters. No matter where you live in Big Sky Country, there are drought-resistant landscaping ideas that will help you conquer the dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nSwitching to drought-resistant landscaping means less time, effort, water, weeding, mowing, and pests. In steppe climates like Montana where average rainfall is less than 15 inches per year, water conservation is important.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n9 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Montana
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Drought-Resistant Landscaping in Montana
\n\n\n\n![\"Sagebrush](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/image-from-rawpixel-id-4033032-jpeg-1.jpg\"){kind=tracking}
Photo Credit: Rawpixel
\n\n\n\nNative plants support conservation efforts and promote a healthy ecosystem. They thrive in the summer heat and dry conditions while remaining cold-hardy enough to survive Montana’s harsh winters and snow. Native plants are hands-off, water efficient, and resistant to local insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThe vibrant, late-summer and early-fall blooms attract pollinating insects, while the dried stalks and leftover seed heads provide food and shelter for songbirds in the winter. From preferring full sun to part shade, they are the most low-maintenance and drought-resistant plants you can include in your landscaping project.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Montana native plants to choose from, including:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"Light](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_16686130046_1524d40e6c_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nDon’t let the vibrant flowers lining the shelves of your stores fool you. While inexpensive, these eye-catching blooms only remain beautiful for a short time. These landscape plants are annuals and only last one growing season before dying in the fall. If bright blooms make your heart sing, you can switch out your annuals for drought-tolerant and cold-resistant perennials.
\n\n\n\nPerennials bloom year after year, surviving the cold Montana winters. They have a shorter, more defined blooming season than annuals and are more expensive. However, these drought-tolerant plants withstand more extreme weather and come in many varieties, including shade-tolerant, deer-resistant, and low-maintenance wildflowers, ornamental grasses, shrubs, vines, and more.
\n\n\n\nIf you are ready for landscaping beauty that bounces back every year, check out some of the best perennials for the Treasure State:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Like native plants, the average cost of perennial plants varies depending on the size and type of plant, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local store to purchase your own perennials, you can expect to spend between $10 to $100 per plant.
\n\n\n\nHydrozones are a crucial component of drought-resistant landscape design. They are groupings of plants with similar soil, water, and sunlight needs. Hydrozoning reduces water use and protects your plants from being over or under-watered.
\n\n\n\nSome common Montana plant groupings include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hydrozoning:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: You can save money and DIY relocate your plants into groups based on their water needs. You can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree for fresh additions.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mulch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: christina rutz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMulch is a loose material typically made of inorganic or organic matter like compost, tree bark, wood chips, or rubber. It is an inexpensive DIY job that provides enormous benefits for your Montana landscape. Mulch helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from cold and heat.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Inorganic mulches are more durable and low-maintenance but do not offer additional nutrients. It is important to note you will need to replace organic mulches like wood chips annually with a fresh layer.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of mulch are:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag. Rubber mulch is more durable and expensive, costing around $8 to $10 per 0.8-cubic-foot bag. If your landscaping project requires a lot of mulch, you can often purchase it in bulk to save money.
\n\n\n\nMontana is incredibly dry across most of the state. While many native plants are adapted to the harsh conditions, Big Sky Country’s weather is unpredictable and unforgiving. Consider hardscaping your backyard to add sustainable visual interest while eliminating the need for weekly maintenance and watering.
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are man-made features, including:
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are a set-it-and-forget-it choice for your landscape. They don’t require watering, pruning, or mowing. In fact, they don’t require maintenance at all except for an annual cleaning. Be prepared. Hardscapes are an expensive upfront investment, but they increase your home’s value and curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Be prepared to spend around $7,500 for a new deck, $4,000 for a patio, $850 for a fire pit, and $3,000 for a flagstone walkway.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/xeriscaping.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Tom Hilton / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMontana’s mountainous western regions, with their continental climates, receive over 35 inches of annual rainfall. Unfortunately, the steppe climates in the central and eastern regions of the Treasure State only receive around 15 inches or fewer, far below the national average rainfall of 30 inches.
\n\n\n\nLike hardscaping, xeriscaping focuses on low-maintenance landscaping with additional emphasis on water conservation. Xeriscaping involves creating a beautiful home landscape that requires no watering except natural rainfall.
\n\n\n\nMontana native plants and turfgrasses are a great water-wise option for xeriscaping your yard. They are naturally drought resistant and adapted to harsh seasonal shifts. Besides native plants, some basic steps for xeriscaping your yard include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional xeriscaping costs between $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on many factors like plant selection and the size of your yard. While upfront costs may seem high, you will save around $0.36 per square foot annually on water and maintenance costs.
\n\n\n\nSlopes, shade, sedimentary rock, and sandstone all have one thing in common. They can make growing turfgrass incredibly difficult. Luckily, your lawn doesn’t need to be covered in traditional grass to have a thick, green appearance. Drought-resistant, low-maintenance groundcover makes a great alternative to grass. These plants grow a few inches tall and spread quickly to fill horizontal space.
\n\n\n\nGroundcover fills areas of your lawn to mimic “grass.” They are low-maintenance, which means less work for you. These plants still require water and the occasional fertilizer, but selecting a native Montana groundcover will ensure your new “grass” is hardy, drought tolerant, and low-maintenance.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular Montana groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Groundcover plants cost around $5 to $50 each, depending on size.
\n\n\n\nLush lawns are scarce in Montana thanks to its semi-arid climate. Luckily, 365 days of perfectly manicured, green lawn is possible if you channel your favorite 1970s sitcom family, the Brady Bunch. Artificial turf is eco-friendly, comes in a variety of colors and styles, and is essentially an outdoor carpet. And contrary to popular belief, it is really hard to tell fake grass from real grass in most cases.
\n\n\n\nArtificial grass is expensive to install and may render your soil unusable in the future. However, it is virtually maintenance-free and a great four-season option for the Great Plains region.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional artificial grass installation costs between $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/4012667803_b9a8385ed1_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Levin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you live in central or eastern Montana, consider planting drought-resistant succulents like cacti. Succulents love arid climates and thrive in the sedimentary rocks of Montana thanks to their thick leaves and shallow root systems. They prefer to be left alone, so you can forget about watering your plants and let nature take over. Succulents come in a variety of shapes and sizes and work great in back and front yards.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these native Big Sky Country succulents:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of succulents:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The price depends on the size and type of succulent and ranges from $10 to $75 per plant.
\n\n\n\nMontana is home to the only grizzly bear population in the lower 48 states and many urbanized rural areas that share landscape space with other local wildlife, including deer, wolves, coyotes, and even bobcats. The best method to deter wildlife is using landscape plants they prefer not to eat.
Wildlife-resistant native Montana plants include:
No. It is typically unnecessary to mow groundcover. They are a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant alternative to traditional turfgrass and only grow to heights of several inches.
There are many types of artificial turf, including pet-friendly turf, that are specially designed for your furry family members to be stain and odor resistant and easy to clean.
Drought-resistant landscaping is the first step to a hardy and low-maintenance, outdoor space. Be sure to consider your yard’s unique microclimate and hardiness zone when selecting plants for your yard.
\n\n\n\nMontana sits in USDA Hardiness Zones 3a to 6a, with most of the Treasure State falling within zones 3b to 4a. Select drought-resistant plants that are cold-hardy to the minimum temperature in your hardiness zone.
\n\n\n\nStop wasting your time on lawn maintenance. It doesn’t matter if you live in the home of Montana State University, Bozeman, or the capital city, Helena. Consider letting Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company that can handle all of your lawn care needs so you can get back to the rugged outdoors.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Montana University / Sara goth / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"9 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Montana","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/1789c/Billings_Montana_MSUB.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/107df/Billings_Montana_MSUB.jpg 320w,\n/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/293e9/Billings_Montana_MSUB.jpg 500w,\n/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/f2cbb/Billings_Montana_MSUB.jpg 800w,\n/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/1789c/Billings_Montana_MSUB.jpg 960w,\n/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/c26c2/Billings_Montana_MSUB.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/1dd6e/Billings_Montana_MSUB.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/67b76/Billings_Montana_MSUB.webp 320w,\n/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/8df11/Billings_Montana_MSUB.webp 500w,\n/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/98a65/Billings_Montana_MSUB.webp 800w,\n/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/1dd6e/Billings_Montana_MSUB.webp 960w,\n/static/b795904fefeea4003a591cb2db71bbd2/3cc96/Billings_Montana_MSUB.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Montana | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tranform your Montana yard with 9 drought-resistant landscaping ideas like using rainwater, choosing native plants, and using efficient irrigation."}}},{"node":{"id":"6eb8b89d-24d7-5d63-aeac-870487ac9062","slug":"best-native-plants-nashville","path":"/lawn-care/tn/nashville/best-native-plants-nashville/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Beck Carter","id":"3b38b422-934a-5aae-81e6-7a8844634ab1","path":"/author/beck-carter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/faa5e8711d89766a0fe69560b04f52b1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"6022ebc8-f59a-5092-819f-17d84814cacf","name":"Nashville","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tn/nashville/"},{"id":"5b679b70-01bd-54c3-aa31-693dd631b9f5","name":"Tennessee","count":11,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tn/"}],"date":"April 4th, 2023","excerpt":"In Music City, homeowners need a lawn that both stands out and blends with the local ecosystem. Native plants can be perfect for giving lawns a meadow-like appearance and attracting beautiful butterflies. Below, we break down the Nashville native plants that will make you the talk of the town. In this article: Why Go Native? […]
\n","content":"\nIn Music City, homeowners need a lawn that both stands out and blends with the local ecosystem. Native plants can be perfect for giving lawns a meadow-like appearance and attracting beautiful butterflies. Below, we break down the Nashville native plants that will make you the talk of the town.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nOne of the ways gardeners ensure that plants work well for their region is by referencing the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. This is especially important when selecting non-native plants for your yard. However, by selecting native plants, homeowners can ensure that their lawns will thrive.
\n\n\n\nAnother good resource for those looking to learn more about native plants is the Tennessee Native Plant Society. They advise homeowners who want native plants to familiarize themselves with their HOA or city ordinances that may classify some native plants as weeds. To avoid this, you can also place a sign on your lawn indicating that your plants are native and helping local pollinators.
\n\n\n\n![\"Northern](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Northern-Maidenhair-Fern.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Schnobby / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nNorthern maidenhair ferns are perfect for gardens with shade. This slow-growing native plant is typically considered low maintenance. Northern maidenhair is a dainty plant that grows naturally in wooded areas around Tennessee. Typically, this fern sprouts fiddleheads that are reddish purple or pink.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Fern
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moist soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers humus-rich well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 2 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is part of the milkweed family. This colorful long-lasting wildflower attracts butterflies and bees due to its abundant nectar. A large taproot allows this plant to survive harsh, dry conditions. But be careful. Butterfly weed tolerates drought but can struggle is overwatered.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to dry
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers sandy loam
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Blue-Star.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sten Porse / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlue star is a feathery plant that features blue, star-shaped flowers and turns a lovely golden color in the fall. A low-maintenance plant, it attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Blue stars can survive in a variety of soil types including clay and sand. It is a long-lasting plant that resists pests such as deer and rabbits.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Wet to moderately wet soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers humus-rich soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 3 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Dogwood](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA small low-maintenance tree, the dogwood works well as a screen or border accent. Dogwoods bloom white flowers in early spring and produce blue or red fruit in the fall. This native tree grows well in swampy or wetland areas. The dogwood attracts wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and bees.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Wet to medium moisture
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers loam, tolerates sandy soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8 to 15 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Maximillian](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Maximillian-Sunflowers.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn addition to Maximilian’s sunflower, several other varieties of sunflowers are native to middle Tennessee. Sunflowers are best suited for gardens with plenty of space because they can grow up to 7 feet tall. These bright, showy yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds. Maximilian’s sunflower spreads aggressively and is easy to grow.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderately wet to moderately dry
\n\n\n\nSoil: Tolerant of a variety of soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 7 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Baptisia](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-Indigo.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWild blue indigo sprouts blue flowers and becomes a robust bush-like plant when fully grown. This plant turns a silvery-gray color during the fall. Wild blue indigo can be difficult to transplant due to its extensive root system. Butterflies and bees enjoy the flowers.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, tolerates some shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nSoil: Tolerant of a variety of soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/American-Wisteria.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmerican wisteria is a climbing vine with shiny dark green leaves. Its fragrant bluish-purple flowers are large and form in drooping clusters. American wisteria is frequently used as an ornamental plant. Additionally, this plant is important for butterfly larvae who use it as a food source. American wisteria can be susceptible to fungal diseases and chewing insects.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Vine
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moderately fertile loam
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 30 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Buttonbush.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Cosmonaut / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe buttonbush is a shrub that has distinctive white flowers that grow in spherical clusters. These clusters of flowers resemble pincushions and give the plant a somewhat tropical appearance. The buttonbush grows brown ornamental fruit.
\n\n\n\nBecause buttonbush naturally grows around ponds and in swamps, it requires a particularly moist environment when grown in a garden. A honey plant, the buttonbush attracts bees, butterflies, and water birds such as ducks.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Wet to moderately wet soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Tolerant of a variety of soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 5 to 12 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Scarlet-Bee-Balm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: H. Zell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nScarlet bee balm has beautiful red flowers in mid to late summer. Because this herbaceous perennial is in the mint family, it will give off a minty scent when its leaves are crushed. Scarlet bee balm attracts wildlife such as bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. Its flowers are also edible.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Wet to moderately wet soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers rich humus soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Woodland](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Woodland-Phlox.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWoodland phlox is a herbaceous perennial often used as an ornamental plant due to its lovely blue flowers. While it has attractive fragrant flowers, it is a fairly nondescript plant when not in bloom. Woodland phlox attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Unfortunately, it also draws deer and rabbits so it may need additional care and protection.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nSun: Part to full shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Wet to moderately wet soil
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers rocky or sandy soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPlants native to your area are more likely to establish quickly and thrive. These native plants create a natural habitat for local wildlife such as butterflies and birds in your backyard. Together, this means that native plants are usually lower maintenance and better for the environment.
It is typically best to plant your garden a few weeks before the last frost date, which, in Nashville, is April 15.
Blue star, wild blue indigo, American wisteria, and buttonbush can be toxic if ingested.
Alternatively, Maximilian’s sunflower and scarlet bee balm are edible plants.
These common Tennessee native plants each have features that make them perfect for your Nashville lawn. Homeowners in Nashville should choose the native plants that fit their preferred maintenance level and aesthetic needs. Ensure that you select native plants that bring desirable wildlife to your home and confirm the toxicity level of your plants if you have children or pets.
\n\n\n\nStill, looking for ways to enhance your Music City lawn? Check out our list of the best grasses for Nashville lawns to find a variety of options that are ideal for Tennessee’s transitional climate. For help with lawn maintenance in Nashville, contact your local professional.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Oak Hill Garden Club in Nashville / Carol Norquist, NGC Chairman / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Nashville, TN","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/1789c/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/107df/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.jpg 320w,\n/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/293e9/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.jpg 500w,\n/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/f2cbb/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.jpg 800w,\n/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/1789c/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.jpg 960w,\n/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/c26c2/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/1dd6e/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/67b76/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.webp 320w,\n/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/8df11/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.webp 500w,\n/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/98a65/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.webp 800w,\n/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/1dd6e/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.webp 960w,\n/static/8240c61da8dbd61d17597595d699defc/3cc96/Oak-Hill-GC-Nashville-Tennessee.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Native Plants for Nashville, TN","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"These 10 native plants will thrive in Nashville’s transitional climate and attract beneficial wildlife to your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"810b8629-f990-5547-a07b-80882ba78242","slug":"worst-backyard-pests-in-richmond-va-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/richmond/worst-backyard-pests-in-richmond-va-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"08edb056-11a9-55f1-a92d-6400a6e86bbc","name":"Richmond","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/richmond/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2019","excerpt":"Many critters can compromise your lawn, but some are more insidious than others. The following is a guide to the worst backyard pests in Richmond, Va., and how to manage them.
\n","content":"\nRichmond is blessed with mild winters and four mellow seasons that make enjoying the outdoors possible for most of the year. Of course, the lack of hard freezes and the green environment are an open invitation to all backyard pests. Many critters can compromise your lawn, but some are more insidious than others. The following is a guide to the worst backyard pests in Richmond and how to manage them.
\n\n\n\nTrue to their name, these pests will feed in large numbers on all varieties of turf, moving in waves like an army, under cover of night. These caterpillars are most prevalent after a cool, wet spring when gray moths lay their eggs after the sun goes down. Resist the urge to apply chemical pesticides right away: your first line of defense is natural predators. A pheromone trap can track the arrival of moths, at which point you should begin inspecting your grass for signs of eggs and worms. Releasing beneficial nematodes can help to control any outbreaks. Applying BT (a natural caterpillar control) to the lawn will also help nip any infestation in the bud.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wsyWaNxHqYBeUaAbl5kz5co7zu7cbOq7EMc-Vl81_F8sFtovjYES3DWdUQhHINjkZNwuLhI19kgLJDnKYC9j9vwNzmSE7Cdu2tsvTrgfbtpHsm5mwk9-J84fZ8jK9oK-zRKLqcVK\")
An accidental import from South America, fire ants know how to put an end to relaxing times in the yard. They’ll bite and sting anything that imposes on their mounds. Their colonies damage yards and wreak havoc on ecosystems. Combatting fire ants is a pastime for many Southerners, but if you control them early, you can avoid making a lifestyle out of ant control. The two-step method is the most effective approach to ridding your lawn of this horrendous pest. You start by spreading a bait insecticide over your entire yard in the fall. You then treat the individual mounds with a granule or dust insecticide.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs are the bane of Kentucky bluegrass, bentgrass, Bermudagrass, perennial ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass. They feed on all these grass types. They’re among the worst backyard pests in Richmond in hot, dry areas with a thick layer of thatch. Patches of grass will turn yellow and then brown in the heat of the sun. The best defense against chinch bugs? A healthy lawn, mowed to the recommended height, aerated, and properly watered and fertilized. You can treat small infestations with insecticidal soap, but larger issues need a dose of an organic or chemical insecticide.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/63LB03uylyiw_BQsJ0lzp5C52d9EuOdMwiHBuMuipusNI3JAhX0ojs9Ve27P3FFNnmzGJP4YPMvAjhj43XorQNAmYJBR9PpTBsmVJW4ROcYrH5PkqvPxNRvoQuLCC1ryKz9lEzfq\")
When brown spots begin to appear on an otherwise healthy lawn, it’s time to start looking for grubs. To diagnose a grub issue, find a piece of affected turf and try to lift it up. If it rolls up easily and lacks roots, then you know grubs are to blame. If you prefer taking a nontoxic approach to lawn care, you can use milky spore, nematodes, or insecticidal soap to kill the grubs in the soil. If your lawn is healthy, grubs will be less able to find purchase and take root. Start looking for the grubs in the spring, before they have time to multiply. Mow consistently and make sure you irrigate the right amount.
\n\n\n\nIf you find you have any of these pests invading your lawn, early detection is the best road to successfully wiping them out. Once an infestation is going full-bore, it’s much harder to get the upper hand. So, pay close attention to your turf and keep your Richmond yard healthy to stay a step ahead in the pest prevention game.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about lawn care and landscaping? Visit our Richmond, Va., lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
If you have pests in your Kansas City backyard — and chances are you do — you can take these steps to zap them or send them scampering off.
\n","content":"\nFleas, ticks, wasps, ants, spiders, mosquitoes — you name the pest, and Kansas City has it. The same balmy summers that make for thick lawns and backyard barbeques come with the unwanted byproduct of bugs. The worst backyard pests in Kansas City have six legs (or more), can sting or bite or, at the very least, look disgusting!
\n\n\n\nIf you have backyard intruders — and chances are you do — you can take steps to zap them or send them scampering off. Let’s look at the worst of the lot.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/sRuIDQ728DZkPno9fMw9DnM0E2w1J-U1s44Q6hd8bEqYXLsEzh2gbH77-l_oV_yuzMXJG9fFWdOZw4dxxE2-cAX-ZsXFYTYmnPfBs-enLhKWQPOj5uCWhobFf3I9j3lr8jLnvTiu\")
This bloodsucker makes the top of the list because ticks transmit more diseases to humans than any other insect — and Missouri has them. The most common here, the American dog tick, carries Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, and other infections. Ticks can make pets sick and kill them, and as temperatures warm, we’re seeing more of them. The CDC reports double the cases of tick-borne diseases in the past 10 years. Keeping them out of your yard is a top priority. Bifen IT, Onslaught, and Permethrin help control ticks outdoors. Keeping a well-maintained yard is also crucial.
\n\n\n\nThey buzz, and you swat. They land, and you slap. Beyond being irritating, this flying insect also carries disease. West Nile Virus, though relatively rare, can be deadly. Add to the list zika, malaria, and dengue fever, and it’s no wonder mosquitoes rank as the deadliest creature on the planet. The best preventative steps are to keep your yard clean and do not leave standing water where larvae hatch. Consider a commercial spray that contains sodium lauryl sulfate. DEET products work on skin and clothing.
\n\n\n\nWant to avoid chemicals? Surround your patio or deck with mosquito-repelling plants. The scent of petunias, mint, lavender, and chrysanthemums really bugs mosquitoes. They also hate rosemary, thyme, cilantro, and garlic.
\n\n\n\nUsually mentioned in the same breath as ticks, this tiny parasite likes the shady and moist areas of your yard. Because they feed on any warm-blooded creature, they will quickly attach to your dog, your cat, you, your kids, and your backyard guests. Left untreated, fleas can kill your pet. Flea-transmitted disease in people is rare in the U.S., but doctors are seeing more of them. This lowliest of creatures was responsible for wiping out half the population of Europe in the Black Death of the 14th century. Sprays, powders, pet collars, and ointments are readily available. Look for ones containing carbonyl.
\n\n\n\nWhen these armed insects are around, we don’t care if they’re a wasp, a hornet, a yellow jacket, or a dirt dauber. We just know they sting, it hurts, and we don’t want them on our property. They belong to the insect order of Apocrita and 58 varieties call Missouri home. The best way to be rid of them is with sprays containing tetramethrin. The task is best left to the bravest and fastest member of the family because when the spray hits the nest, they’re going to come out, well — mad as a hornet.
\n\n\n\nA word about bees and wasps. Although bees are from the same family as wasps, they’re less aggressive unless their hives are threatened. Otherwise, they’re content buzzing around and performing the crucial job of pollinating flowers. Since these bugs are essential to our food chain, it’s best to call a beekeeper if you find a hive. The aggressive Africanized or “killer” bee has not made its way to Missouri. And while wasps may bug you, they also eat the pests that feed on your vegetable plants.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Yi3CxzB1LG2HfbUuN95nw1cVBz_ZOcjC2qRFuOhDeU8YVcMxmNDfcYOm5rjfzv_NqgcTWUJ6FxvLWwxdaYpdoGhAKRRLez8RsuKNGukdJs_ZBydETaYKroZk5OT3aBaun_p58xmc\")
Like Rodney Dangerfield, spiders “don’t get no respect.” Even though most of them rid our yards of flies, mosquitoes, and cockroaches, their reputation is sullied by a few bad eggs. Think the black widow and the brown recluse, which bite can hurt you. The black widow is common across Missouri and likes to hide under rocks, logs, and in your garden shed. The brown recluse, which also calls Missouri home, prefers to hang out in your closet or sock drawer. A direct shot of commercial bug spray will kill a spider, but because they’re arachnids rather than insects, routine bug sprays won’t keep them away. A smack with a flyswatter does just as good.
\n\n\n\nYou can control the worst backyard pests in Kansas City with pesticides and with some homemade natural remedies. But when you feel your family’s health is at risk — call in the pros!
Looking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Kansas City? Visit our Kansas City Lawn Care page.
Ground covers are the unsung heroes of your yard and garden. They fill in bare areas where grass won’t grow, provide us with low-maintenance areas, and give us green leaves in the winter months. They can also offer carpets of blooms that attract pollinators and bring us joy. The mastermind behind Epic Gardening, Kevin Espíritu, […]
\n","content":"\nGround covers are the unsung heroes of your yard and garden. They fill in bare areas where grass won’t grow, provide us with low-maintenance areas, and give us green leaves in the winter months. They can also offer carpets of blooms that attract pollinators and bring us joy.
\n\n\n\nThe mastermind behind Epic Gardening, Kevin Espíritu, is a huge fan of ground covers as a lawn replacement. “If you have children or pets who are likely to play in your yard, you can do a blended yard,” he says, adding, “Be mindful of both your average high temps and your low temps, and pick plants that can handle both.”
\n\n\n\nNow that you’re convinced, take a look at some of the best ground covers for sun or shade in all climates.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_SDqGc7dP9YS9F6Y3RkvK_8iO3lTYkZZZ5VNlOL6sedxdWXBAJa5RPVA6ZBfP4rVwgY6DGapir_ww-ob8xo6Y-QscKHAKscDBJmkf0xXfYAs_afx7MnbKteF8mUu2610okjWik-R\")
Bugleweed comes in dozens of varieties ranging from green to bronze, purple, and sometimes even variegated. This ornamental ground cover stands up to heavy foot traffic and is hardy to minus 40 degrees. It can thrive in full sun to part shade and presents blue-purple flowers from late spring to early summer.
\n\n\n\nThis fast-growing ground cover spends months producing white flowers and is hardy all the way down to -30 degrees. Candytuft is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It’s the perfect choice for sunny slopes and rock gardens.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial ground cover with chartreuse leaves is a favorite for its hardiness and attractive foliage. Creeping Jenny enjoys full sun but can tolerate part shade as long as the soil is moist. With a fountain-like growth pattern, she’s a favorite for raised flower beds and planters.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/F60x8NcemcIl4tDxNhj0lfnrrohZY4EQxU2lPGir5Hb_PCrBjwPrOZw2HiuRcIgXVeOaLPzXSRaIFgAGjWeRHbVZd2I8gdtbWvHwnDXUd77Q_NEqsmUBPtUiBGpUhKG8um3oS6Xt\")
Deer resistant and cold hardy to minus 40 degrees, creeping phlox bursts into glorious bloom in spring. Best with full sun to part shade, this 6-inch-tall superstar performs well on slopes and retaining walls.
\n\n\n\nAdding stunning beauty to shaded areas, deadnettle has silvery, variegated leaves, and is hardy to minus 15 degrees. This deciduous plant offers cheerful pink flowers in late spring but dies back in winter. The only precaution to take when planting deadnettle is to make sure you’re not in an area where it’s considered invasive.
\n\n\n\nThe thyme family offers dozens of varieties of this hardy ground cover, most of which can handle temps down to minus 20 degrees. Only 3 inches tall, most varieties don’t attract deer or rabbits. Plant in full sun and enjoy a show of pink flowers in summer. and an herb for cooking all year.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Uru5bSHYQ_Bl5BvRgE0FWNnd9AMwMkHYn0XKgx7l2u1wWpnJOdVJozdHyp6T2SnGnU0uzKdbxq3Nl6v9YfumhAAW6fQTy6uVa5KxuTvF1uE7gaJMbzVY0_l-N9BnstfGoPg-BENA\")
This succulent, evergreen thrives in warm climates and can’t tolerate foot traffic or temperatures below minus 10 degrees. But on sunny, well-drained slopes, it provides beautiful texture and neon-bright, flowers from mid-summer to early fall. For high-visibility blooms and solid erosion control, ice plants are hard to beat.
\n\n\n\nThis drought-tolerant evergreen prefers part to full shade and is hardy to minus 30 degrees. The glossy, dark green leaves create a 12-inch tall mat of foliage that produces spiky white blossoms in late spring.
\n\n\n\nThis grasslike ground cover, also known as lilyturf, thrives in sun and shade (but needs moist soil) and is hardy to minus 15 degrees. Both clumping and creeping varieties erupt into spikes of purple, white, or blue flowers in late summer. Liriope makes an attractive garden edging and is good for erosion control or under trees as a substitute for grass.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/8vDsC_PoUx3TzLUQu3IfExcvkoDqrJ2fWxATHrfZ9J-lI7Ot8wzZLSGGw61FF8y-VwV4xgmwMme31AaupVrYyatVrhKgQUpp7RYDNltF1M9vPDKVdsdKK62C55AkEkDUd4dkF2Kz\")
One of the most popular evergreen ground covers, periwinkle, prefers moist soil in partly shaded areas. Hardy to minus 20 degrees, periwinkle is a vigorous, vining plant that may need to be cut back every so often to keep it under control.
\n\n\n\nWhether your goal is to cover the bare spots beneath trees or to fill the negative space in your flower beds, there’s a ground cover out there for the job. Choose wisely, and your groundcover will reward you for years to come.
\n\n\n\nTop image credit: “Ajuga reptans Chocolate Chip,” David J. Stang, CC by-SA 4.0
\n","title":"Best Ground Covers for Your Yard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/1789c/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/107df/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.jpg 320w,\n/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/293e9/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.jpg 500w,\n/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/f2cbb/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.jpg 800w,\n/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/1789c/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.jpg 960w,\n/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/f605f/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.jpg 1000w","srcWebp":"/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/1dd6e/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/67b76/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.webp 320w,\n/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/8df11/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.webp 500w,\n/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/98a65/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.webp 800w,\n/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/1dd6e/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.webp 960w,\n/static/7b8928cb37101f2a439ec84a76a9602c/23e94/Ajuga_reptans_Chocolate_Chip_0zz-wikimedia-david-j-stang-ccsa40.webp 1000w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Ground Covers for Your Yard | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"72277407-1167-55d2-a463-934032653d9f","slug":"best-native-plants-columia-sc","path":"/lawn-care/sc/columbia/best-native-plants-columia-sc/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Farah Nauman is a freelance writer and an accountant based in Pakistan. She spends most of her time combating the South Asian heat and being a mom to her three fluffy cats and a dozen little Aloe Veras in her house.","name":"Farah Nauman","id":"26059a96-5dc7-50a2-8fe4-f35b865ab4a8","path":"/author/farah-nauman/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6ec8e652d318d98583d29f520928b219?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"fdf0bc73-027b-53cd-9759-0a8e363ba959","name":"Columbia","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/columbia/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"1ea697f8-5b42-5431-b368-7296faebead2","name":"South Carolina","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Our balmy climate and Southern charm are what defines the Carolinas. And although it’s pretty hot for a good part of the year, Columbia has an abundance of ecoregions that support a wide array of plants. The heat may discourage many homeowners from building a nice, big garden, but that won’t be a problem if […]
\n","content":"\nOur balmy climate and Southern charm are what defines the Carolinas. And although it’s pretty hot for a good part of the year, Columbia has an abundance of ecoregions that support a wide array of plants.
\n\n\n\nThe heat may discourage many homeowners from building a nice, big garden, but that won’t be a problem if you plant natives that have adapted to Columbia’s hot weather. To help you with that, we put together a list of nine of the best native plants for Columbia to help you brighten up that dull yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nA native plant is a species that has lived, reproduced, and adapted naturally in a specific region or area for hundreds or even thousands of years. Their presence then becomes an integral part of that area’s ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nThese natives adapt perfectly and completely to the region’s soil conditions, climate, temperature, light exposure, and other factors of the environment until they become part of it. That makes them “indigenous”.
\n\n\n\nWant a healthy, long-lasting, and beautiful yard? Native plants are the way to go. There are many advantages of planting natives in your landscape, including:
\n\n\n\nHere is a collection of the best natives you can bring into your Columbia lawn and enjoy a low-maintenance landscape.
\n\n\n\n![\"Carolina](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Carolina-Phlox.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum from Small Dole, England / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe strongest Southeastern U.S. native plant, Carolina phlox is a herbaceous flowering plant that boasts broadly cylindrical clusters of white, pink, or lavender flowers. They bloom from late spring to mid-summer and continue intermittently until the first few touches of frost.
\n\n\n\nCarolina phlox flowers sit atop red-streaked, slender stems with oval, leathery leaves that bear the perfect bright-green color. Clusters of these nectar-rich flowers attract bees, hummingbirds, and a wide variety of butterflies to your garden. Fresh, picture-perfect Carolina phlox flowers make excellent fresh-cut flowers too!
\n\n\n\nThis native plant self-sows but won’t get aggressive. It works great in perennial borders, home gardens, and city gardens.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, but capable of tolerating shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Acidic or neutral clay, loamy, sandy soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, tolerant of dry conditions
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5a – 9b
\n\n\n\n![\"Black](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Cohosh.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlso known as black bugbane, the black cohosh plant is native to most of eastern North America. It is a woody perennial that thrives in shady forest edges and grows into tall flower spikes bearing pom-pom-like flowers. This native plant strikes with its arching wands of white flowers all summer long and has finely divided, deep green foliage that compliments the flowers well.
\n\n\n\nThe fluffy spikes grow into seed pods and make a great addition for shade gardens. Black cohosh prefers moist, rich soil with organic matter and thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it one of the easiest, low-maintenance plants for a Columbia lawn.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 5 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Slightly acidic and rich loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3a – 8b
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oakleaf-Hydrangea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: normanack / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a colorful native shrub that will fill your garden with shades of green, white, pink, and burgundy all around the year. Oakleaf hydrangea develops into a large woody shrub and has tiny flowers that form clusters at each branch end. It produces white blooms that arrange themselves in showy, pyramidal clusters.
\n\n\n\nBelow the flowers are large dark green leaves that add to the plant’s grandeur. The blooms give a honey-like scent, attracting tons of bees to your yard.
\n\n\n\nIt prefers well-drained and organically rich soils with medium moisture content and does well with full sun to partial shade. Oakleaf hydrangea is a long-living perennial that blooms from mid-summer to early summer. As summer progresses the white bracts turn pink and make beautiful dried flower arrangements.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining soil with high organic matter
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5a – 9b
\n\n\n\n![\"Crested](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crested-Iris.jpg\")
Photo Credit: OakleyOriginals / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis Columbia native species is a woodland perennial that spreads by underground rhizomes and creates impressive clumps. It grows well in dappled shades and produces delicate lavender and white flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees.
\n\n\n\nThe crested iris sprouts up to only 16 inches in height, at most. You can use this native flowering perennial as a ground cover in perennial borders or shady areas of rock gardens.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 16 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining and moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3a – 8b
\n\n\n\n![\"Goldenrod\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Goldenrod.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson from North Palm Beach, Florida, Planet Earth! / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSolidago is a herbaceous perennial from the aster family and produces bright yellow, small flowers in dense clusters. These clusters sit stop tall stems and keep your garden yellow from July through September. Goldenrod is vastly used for medicinal purposes and produces abundant nectar for butterflies, wasps, bees, and seeds for birds.
\n\n\n\nGoldenrod also neutralizes quickly so you might want to divide them to control the spread. This flowering native plant is also resistant to deer so you won’t have to worry about a ruined yard.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full, bright sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Will survive in dry soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 2a – 8b
\n\n\n\n![\"Deciduous](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Deciduous-Azalea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: denisbin / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis plant has over 13 deciduous species that are native to the U.S., one being exclusively found in South Carolina. The Azaleas bloom from early spring till mid-summer and spread white, pink, orange, or red, and sweet fragranced flowers.
\n\n\n\nAs the name implies, deciduous azaleas have lots of leaves that change color as the temperature drops. You will have a variety of colors throughout the year in your garden from early spring to late autumn days.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2 to 15 feet tall, depending on the species
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Shade with partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium once established
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7a – 9b, depending on the species
\n\n\n\n![\"Devilwood](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Devilwood-Osmanthus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCartrema americana, or the Ostmanthus americanus, is a shrub that may sometimes develop into a small tree, 13 to 23 feet tall. Devilwood bears small, white, and strongly fragranced flowers early in the spring. And when the plant is mature, it produces globose fruits with dark blue drupes that contain a single seed. Their sweet smell attracts songbirds, bees, and pollinators.
\n\n\n\nThe evergreen devilwood shrub lasts year round with its small, urn-shaped white flowers maturing into dark blue drupes in the fall. The bark is finely scaly and gray-brown while the leaves have a rusty-colored underside and wavy margins. It’s easy to grow too, devilwood tolerates a range of light, wind, and soil conditions.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub or tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: 15 to 20 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6a – 9b
\n\n\n\n![\"Fraser](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fraser-Magnolia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Richtid / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree is also referred to as mountain magnolia, mountain-oread, or the ear leaf cucumbertree. Fraser magnolia can grow quite tall, up to 40 feet, when fully mature and its snowy white flowers give off a sweet, pleasant fragrance.
\n\n\n\nThis native plant blooms in late spring and early summer and typically contains just one or two seeds. You can spot a magnolia tree from afar with its large leaves, an open crown of spreading branches, and huge flowers. Its long leaves turn from green to yellow and then brown in the fall while the flowers serve as a food source for the wildlife at every stage.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 40 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist and well-draining soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6a – 9b
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/american-beautyberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Donald Lee Pardue / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis native shrub will stand out in your Columbia yard with its distinctive yellow-green fall foliage and clusters of striking, glossy, purple fruit. These bright purple berries ripe late in June or July and make a favored food source for bobwhite and other berry-eating native birds.
\n\n\n\nThe arching branches create a fountain-like shape, giving your landscape a unique edge. During spring, American beautyberry also produce balls of small pink flowers at each leaf node.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun and partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8a – 10b
\n\n\n\n![\"Palmetto](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Palmetto-Palm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSouth Carolina’s state tree, the Palmetto palm is a tall native tree that is a great option for you if you want some shade in your Columbia landscape. It has blue-green, fan-shaped leaves that offer a great nesting space for migrating birds and provide shade.
\n\n\n\nThe best thing about palmetto palm trees is that you don’t have to worry about them freezing in the South Carolina cold. It’s a low-maintenance plant that blooms around June and produces nectar for honeybees.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Palm
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 100 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8a – 11b
\n\n\n\n![\"Foamflower\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Foamflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Evan M. Raskin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTiarella cordifolia is a native perennial that is found all through Eastern North America and the East Coast of the United States. It’s also referred to as heart-leaved foamflower because of its unique, attractive foliage. It produces about 8-inch stalks and develops white, feathery flowers.
\n\n\n\nThis plant prefers shade and will thrive on a lawn that gets dappled sunlight. It blooms early in the spring and continues till mid-spring before the flowers start fading. However, the foliage is evergreen and creates a pleasing visual.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering plant
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8 to 16 inches
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3a – 8b
\n\n\n\nLandscaping with native plants doesn’t automatically make it easier to maintain your Columbia landscape, you need to pick the right natives that go well with the soil, light, and wind exposure in your area.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, when choosing native plants for your garden you need to take the plant’s USDA Hardiness Zone range. This range will help you determine and narrow down the right plants for your yard. Columbia Hardiness Zone is 7a to 8b.
\n\n\n\nWhen planning your Columbia garden, aim to create a healthy ecosystem that benefits your plants, the winged visitors, small mammals, and the environment. Water, soil, wind, moisture, and the overall climate should sync with your plants. For more information, you can check South Carolina Native Plant Society.
\n\n\n\nNative species shouldn’t be hard to spot around your neighborhood. Better yet, you may find some natives already sprouting up in your yard. Don’t pull them out if you see them, as it will disturb the natural habitat. Instead, try to build your lawn around them.
\n\n\n\nYou can also buy from the local selection of natives at nurseries such as Humble Roots Nursery, Native Plants Garden Center, and Alex’s Nursery, or order from Carolina native nursery.
\n\n\n\nAnd when you’ve chosen and brought home your new native plants, plan the landscape around them and spruce up other parts of your garden to create a final look. Take a look at Wikilawn’s detailed guide on the best grass types for Columbia to see what grass bed should be planted with your natives. If you need help with setting up or regular maintenance of your Columbia lawn, hire one of our pros who will keep your yard and native plants happy.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for Columbia, SC","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.25,"src":"/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/1789c/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/107df/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 320w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/293e9/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 500w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/f2cbb/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 800w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/1789c/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 960w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/c26c2/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/1dd6e/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/67b76/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 320w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/8df11/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 500w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/98a65/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 800w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/1dd6e/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 960w,\n/static/2826553f65026d7d4e71173a96bdbb8c/3cc96/Columbia-South-Carolina-Yard.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for Columbia, South Carolina","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Ready to transform your landscape into an effortless native garden bursting with colors? Take a look at these native plants for Columbia, South Carolina."}}},{"node":{"id":"3b863141-43e2-5ab9-9929-f6ed95cfefb6","slug":"atlanta-watering-restrictions","path":"/lawn-care/ga/atlanta/atlanta-watering-restrictions/","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":"f552cb4e-e448-57f4-a5a4-d001c98833f6","name":"Atlanta","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ga/atlanta/"},{"id":"e4b1764d-a5cd-56e1-942a-7fc609f1b8e9","name":"Georgia","count":11,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ga/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 27th, 2019","excerpt":"Georgia is one of the lucky ones when it comes to water. The Peach State gets about 50 inches of rain a year. While we may struggle with the humidity in the thick of summer, we don’t exactly lack for water when it comes to our yards. That said, watering your yard is not a […]
\n","content":"\nGeorgia is one of the lucky ones when it comes to water. The Peach State gets about 50 inches of rain a year. While we may struggle with the humidity in the thick of summer, we don’t exactly lack for water when it comes to our yards.
\n\n\n\nThat said, watering your yard is not a free-for-all, and Atlanta has some watering restrictions.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yBQEGnsyyXpr5ndCbY5R2MyEGYxUmduJNqj-NjOIYUoyX4oPaWGs28zMu8glnjCvIA1ZDHEakTYLebxMnXIOAiyIaqRRIIHmLfVgMT6ZZ_9qHGv35-z5tAwKMjh3nKCjj_AIgNxH\")
The City of Atlanta is currently on a nondrought watering schedule, so the toughest restriction right now is a ban on watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Watering in the heat of the day means a lot of water lost to evaporation. It’s also not good for your grass, encouraging fungus problems and stressing the blades. If you’ve got a timer on your irrigation system, set it to go off at 5 a.m.
\n\n\n\nThis is where it gets a little complicated. There are some very specific exceptions to the watering restrictions. In some cases, you can water between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Those exceptions include:
\n\n\n\nThe city also allows drip irrigation and hand watering any time. It’s also okay o reuse household grey water and reclaimed wastewater at any time. Basically, if you’re a property owner watering the regular old grass, don’t do it during the hottest hours of the day. Everybody else can generally go about their business without worrying about it.
\n\n\n\nGeorgia was in an extreme drought as recently as 2016. That’s when the state Environmental Protection Division imposed mandatory water restrictions on 52 counties, including metro Atlanta. You may remember watering was restricted to two times a week during the drought. Those restrictions were lifted on a county-by-county basis in 2017 and the early months of 2018. The EPD officially lifted the last of the drought restrictions in March of 2018. But the nondrought restrictions barring homeowners from watering the lawn between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. are still in effect.
\n\n\n\nDrought has played a major role in Georgia history. The Drought of 1924 devastated the state’s agricultural economy leading up to the Great Depression. The dry period made the 1930s even harder for many Georgians who struggled to survive in that era. The U.S. Drought Monitor came into play in 2000, and in 2006, one of the longest droughts in recent history hit, lasting for more than three years. At its worst, the week of Christmas 2007, about half of the state was in extreme drought.
\n\n\n\nGeorgia is a state usually blessed with water, from the amount of rainfall to the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers and all the lakes. That abundance is reflected in the laxity of local watering rules when there is no drought. The daytime watering restrictions in Atlanta will stop you from wasting water and keep your lawn and flowers healthy. Watering early in the morning keeps the plants free from fungus and other stresses that could make them vulnerable to disease and pests.
\n\n\n\nDo you have questions about lawn or garden care? Please visit our Atlanta, GA lawn care page for more information.
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