![\"American](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Angelica-Angelica-atropurpurea.jpg\")
Rhode Island, with its vibrant cities like Providence and Newport, is a state that prides itself on its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. And what better way to celebrate this unique blend of city charm and natural splendor than by adorning your surroundings with the 8 best native plants for Rhode Island? These extraordinary […]
\n","content":"\nRhode Island, with its vibrant cities like Providence and Newport, is a state that prides itself on its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. And what better way to celebrate this unique blend of city charm and natural splendor than by adorning your surroundings with the 8 best native plants for Rhode Island?
\n\n\n\nThese extraordinary plants infuse your outdoor space with captivating aesthetics and play a crucial role in preserving the local ecosystem. Let’s take a closer look at the hidden treasures that await in Rhode Island’s diverse landscapes.
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer the following benefits:
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover the following:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Doug McGrady / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmerican angelica adds a touch of elegance to Rhode Island’s landscapes. With its cream-colored, greenish tiny flowers delicately adorning its tall stems, this native marvel is a beauty. As the seasons unfold, the flowers gracefully transition into dry seed-like fruits. Standing tall and proud, it gives any landscape a sense of height and structure.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, clay, loam. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: It has a floral sweet scent.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Fall and summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to wet.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 – 10 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Under optimal growing conditions, the American angelica can be cultivated from seed and even self-seed if the spent flower umbels are left undisturbed.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Columbine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRed columbine is a native plant that adds vibrant colors to your landscape. As the early spring unfolds, a spectacle takes center stage as this plant’s red and yellow flowers burst into full bloom. Like nature’s trumpet call, these tubular blossoms beckon hummingbirds, butterflies, and bumblebees to partake in their nectar-filled delights.
\n\n\n\nWhen the flowers have completed their performance, the red columbine transforms, becoming a ground cover that blankets the earth with its foliage. Like a vibrant tapestry woven by nature’s hand, it adds a touch of beauty to any landscape.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Semi-evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8 to 10 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Columbine has a self-seeding ability, allowing it to spread and establish new plants effortlessly. In the second year, these seedlings burst into bloom, gracing your garden with another round of flowers.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Judy Gallagher / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPurple milkweed is the secret ingredient that adds a touch of beauty to Rhode Island’s backyards. Picture a magnificent fashion show of colors, with flowers ranging from regal deep purple to delicate rose-pink, showcasing nature’s most exquisite shades on its botanical runway.
\n\n\n\nBut there’s more to this beautiful plant than meets the eye. Purple milkweed hosts the monarch butterfly larvae, creating a bustling butterfly hotspot in your garden. With purple milkweed, your Rhode Island yard transforms into a showstopper, turning your outdoor space into a captivating spectacle.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: It has a lilting honey fragrance
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring to summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 – 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans, pets, and other animals.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. The purple milkweed is a plant that can be pretty invasive. It spreads aggressively through seeds and rhizomes, making it unsuitable for small gardens.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Wild-Indigo.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYellow wild indigo is a smooth, upright perennial that stands tall and proud, commanding attention with its striking appearance. Picture clusters of small, bright yellow to cream-colored flowers resembling delicate peas adorning the stems above a lush foliage mound.
\n\n\n\nThe leaves, reminiscent of clover, are trifoliate and sport a delightful gray-green hue. The yellow wild indigo invites you to turn your garden into a captivating tapestry of yellow shades.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sand. Acid. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Dry to moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans and animals if ingested.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. It is advisable not to relocate this plant once it has established itself. Attempting to grow it from seed may pose a challenge.
\n\n\n\n![\"Northern](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Northern-Blue-Flag-Iris-Versicolor.jpg\")
Photo Credit: D. Gordon E. Robertson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPrepare to be captivated by the northern blue flag. Its sword-shaped blue-green leaves, clumped together, create a striking visual display. It possesses a mass of enchanting blue, lavender, and white blossoms, each with three upright inner standards and distinctively marked sepals.
\n\n\n\nWhile the fruit forms as a capsule, this blue Iris thrives best by dividing its rhizomes after the blooms fade. Invite the blue flag into your Rhode Island yard, and let its presence transport you to a world of floral splendor.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam. Acid, neutral. Moist, poorly drained soil.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous Perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Slightly fragrance.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Wet.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans and animals.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. After the first frost, trim back the leaves above the crown. This helps the plants prepare for winter and encourages healthy growth in the spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"Violet](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Violet-Wood-Sorrel-Oxalis-violacea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ilona Loser / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPrepare to be enchanted by the delicate beauty of the violet wood-sorrel. This native plant weaves a tapestry of color and charm into Rhode Island’s landscapes. It has long-stemmed leaves emerging gracefully from the base, surpassing the flowering stem in length. And then, at the end of each stem, behold a delightful cluster of 4 to 19 flowers, like a miniature bouquet, showcasing shades of lavender and pinkish-purple.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 10 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested in large amounts.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate. It has to be planted during fall.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bloodroot\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bloodroot-Sanguinaria-canadensis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBloodroot is a native plant that adds a touch of magic to any landscape. Imagine a single leaf and flower rising on separate stems. Watch as the leaf gently wraps around the flower bud like a protective embrace. On a smooth stalk, a solitary white flower takes center stage.
\n\n\n\nFlowers open during the day and close their petals when night falls. The fleeting performance leaves you in awe of nature’s beauty. Get ready to welcome bloodroot into your garden, and be prepared for a botanical spectacle.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Part shade to full shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Light floral fragrance.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 10 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans, pets, and other animals.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. It is propagated by division during autumn or by seed. Its germination can be erratic over the following 2 years.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/A-White-Ash-tree.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nElevate your Rhode Island backyard to new heights of beauty by introducing beautiful white ash trees. These magnificent specimens thrive in the local climate and offer a long-lasting display throughout the seasons.
\n\n\n\nPicture the distinctive bark, boasting a stunning palette ranging from yellow-brown to light gray, adorned with corky textures and deep furrows that accentuate the tree’s character. In the spring, delicate clusters of small, pale green to purple flowers emerge, forming graceful panicles that sway in the gentle breeze. As summer transitions into fall, prepare to be spellbound by the sight of matured, one-winged samaras.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring, summer, and autumn.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 60 to 80 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate. Best sited in locations protected from strong winds. Generally tolerant of urban conditions, particularly if well-sited in the landscape.
\n\n\n\nEnhance the beauty of your garden by incorporating native plants, but remember to choose wisely to ensure their success. When selecting plants for your Rhode Island yard, it’s crucial to consider factors such as sunlight, soil quality, and irrigation.
\n\n\n\nSince Rhode Island falls within USDA hardiness zones 6 and 7, opting for plants that thrive in these conditions is essential. By making informed choices and selecting well-suited plants for your region, you’ll create a garden that flourishes with vibrant life, bringing you year-round joy and beauty.
\n\n\n\nRhode Island boasts a wide variety of native trees, including hickory, ash, elm, red maple, cherry, beech, birch, poplar, pine, and cedar. These magnificent trees add beauty to the landscape and play a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem.
Here are some additional native plant species for Rhode Island:
• Wamp azalea (Rhododendron viscosum)
• Alnus serrulata (Smooth Alder)
• Maryland golden aster (Chrysopsis mariana)
If you find yourself unsure about selecting the perfect plant for your native garden, don’t worry! There are resources available to guide you on your quest. The University of Rhode Island offers a helpful guide specifically designed to assist you in choosing the ideal native plants for your landscape.
When landscaping your backyard in Rhode Island, turn to local nurseries for sourcing native plants. Choosing native plants from local nurseries ensures that they are well-adapted to the climate and soil conditions of the region, making them more resilient and easier to maintain in the long run.
\n\n\n\nTo find native plants for your garden, explore native nurseries, the Rhode Island Wild Plant Society, and community plant and nature conservation groups. These valuable sources can provide you with a wealth of information and connect you with like-minded individuals who share a passion for native plant conservation and gardening.
\n\n\n\nHowever, selecting the right plants is just the first step. To ensure your yard’s continued health and vitality, ongoing care and maintenance are essential. Properly caring for your lawn will contribute to its long-term success and keep your landscape looking its best.
\n\n\n\nNeed help from a pro? Hire a lawn care pro near you to handle the yard’s mowing, trimming, and edging. We can connect you with trusted pros in Coventry, Providence, Cumberland, and many other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: liz west / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"8 Best Native Plants for Rhode Island","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7045454545454546,"src":"/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/1789c/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/107df/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 320w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/293e9/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 500w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/f2cbb/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 800w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/1789c/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 960w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/c26c2/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/1dd6e/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/67b76/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 320w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/8df11/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 500w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/98a65/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 800w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/1dd6e/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 960w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/3cc96/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Native Plants for Rhode Island","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the top 8 native plants for Rhode Island, boosting aesthetics and supporting local ecosystem preservation."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"23a5196c-babb-59dc-93b7-ab81576c02d1","slug":"best-grass-types-little-rock","path":"/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/best-grass-types-little-rock/","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":"31b8d887-3e55-503a-9ba9-8fac7d950ccf","name":"Arkansas","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"3f184524-ced0-581e-a7ce-1d315593ccbf","name":"Little Rock","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ar/little-rock/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Little Rock is unique. Its climate is classified as subtropical, but the city experiences four distinct seasons with very short, cold winters. Named after an actual rock, “la Petite Roche” to the locals, the bustling metropolis has plenty of prime outdoor months with annual high temperatures averaging 73 degrees Fahrenheit and lows averaging 52 degrees […]
\n","content":"\nLittle Rock is unique. Its climate is classified as subtropical, but the city experiences four distinct seasons with very short, cold winters. Named after an actual rock, “la Petite Roche” to the locals, the bustling metropolis has plenty of prime outdoor months with annual high temperatures averaging 73 degrees Fahrenheit and lows averaging 52 degrees Fahrenheit. The best grass types for Little Rock need little water to survive the unique climate. Read on to discover four warm-season varieties suitable for your Little Rock landscape.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike Goldilocks, Arkansas sits in the transition zone. This means summers are too hot for cool-season grass varieties and winters are too cold for warm-season grasses in most of the state, making it incredibly difficult to maintain your lawn.
\n\n\n\nAll types of grass are classified into one of two categories:
\n\n\n\nLittle Rock sits on the banks of the Arkansas River in the middle of the state. Cool-season grass varieties perform best in Northern Arkansas, making Little Rock best-suited for warm-season varieties.
\n\n\n\nThe following warm-season grass types are perfectly suited for the climatic and soil conditions of Little Rock:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is the most common Arkansas grass variety, and it is adapted to the entire state. It is an aggressive grass that recovers quickly from damage. The turfgrass is moderately cold-tolerant, hardy, and fine-textured. It withstands drought and heavy foot traffic, making it a versatile option for golf courses, athletic fields, and home lawns.
\n\n\n\nLittle Rock is home to common and hybrid bermudagrass varieties. Sun-loving 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 and lower disease resistance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, army worms, and sod webworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass thrives in the Little Rock summers. It is dense with deep roots and the least winter-hardy of the warm-season grasses. Luckily, it performs well in centrally located Little Rock. It has high shade tolerance, is quick-growing, and is easy to establish. However, the dense turfgrass does not stand up well to heavy traffic or herbicides.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is blue-green and coarse-textured. It is hardy as far north as Little Rock. The most readily available cultivar is the common St. Augustinegrass, and all cultivars are 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; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, army worms, web worms, and grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is used throughout Arkansas. This turfgrass tolerates drought, low mow heights, shade, heavy traffic, and even lower temperatures. It has low fertilization requirements and grows densely, blocking out weeds thanks to thick, stiff leaf blades.
\n\n\n\nTwo cultivars of Zoysiagrass are present in Little Rock, Zoysia japonica and Zoysia matrella. The attractive turfgrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. Arkansas 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: Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and leaf spot can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, army worms, chinch bugs, and sod webworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is slow-growing, making it a low-maintenance choice for Little Rock lawns. Cultivars require little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain lush and green. It handles shade better than bermudagrass, but the smooth, flat-bladed grass does not handle heavy traffic, cold, or herbicides well.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass has a pronounced medium texture and light green color. This turfgrass prefers to be left alone and 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: Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate; prone to ground pearl insects, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, and lawn caterpillars
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\nNo. While Arkansas lies in the transition zone, centrally located Little Rock is too warm to grow cool-season grasses. Cities in Northern Arkansas can grow tall fescue, a cool-season grass that tolerates heat better than other varieties.
You should plant your grass seed in May or June. This gives the seed plenty of time to germinate before the hot Little Rock summer.
St. Augustinegrass is the most shade-friendly grass type for Little Rock.
The best grass cultivars for Little Rock are warm-season varieties suited to Arkansas’ unique USDA zones, 7b to 8a. All turfgrasses have their own characteristics and needs. Choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nYour grass comes together to help form your complete landscape. There are numerous landscaping options for Little Rock, and you can take advantage of the city’s four unique seasons. Be sure to check out our guides to help you keep your lawn healthy year-round:
\n\n\n\nConquer Arkansas’ humid climate. Contact a Little Rock lawn care pro today to help you maintain a green and healthy lawn, so you have more free time outdoors.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Valis55 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Little Rock","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1789c/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/107df/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/293e9/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/f2cbb/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1789c/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/c26c2/Little-Rock-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1dd6e/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/67b76/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/8df11/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/98a65/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/1dd6e/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/acc1fc681c1053d02590a90a4f6a68b0/3cc96/Little-Rock-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Little Rock | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, drought-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Little Rock, and these four species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"c50bda81-b945-531e-b073-f439f50a5e26","slug":"watering-restrictions-baton-rouge-la","path":"/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/watering-restrictions-baton-rouge-la/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d1d6935d-c1c2-53e6-93e2-8203b0f7327d","name":"Baton Rouge","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"}],"date":"July 17th, 2019","excerpt":"While neighboring states wilt under high summer temps and crippling water restrictions, Baton Rouge has the pleasure of unfettered watering privileges. But just because you can use unlimited amounts of water, doesn’t mean you should. In fact, preserving this natural resource is a priority in our area, even if we aren’t seeing a shortage. Read […]
\n","content":"\nWhile neighboring states wilt under high summer temps and crippling water restrictions, Baton Rouge has the pleasure of unfettered watering privileges. But just because you can use unlimited amounts of water, doesn’t mean you should. In fact, preserving this natural resource is a priority in our area, even if we aren’t seeing a shortage. Read on to learn about water conservation in Baton Rouge.
\n\n\n\nUsing the right grass species can help reduce your watering needs. There are five types of grass considered appropriate in the Baton Rouge area. These are carpetgrass, Zoysiagrass, St. Augustinegrass, centipedegrass, and Bermudagrass.
\n\n\n\nEach of these has an optimal length they should be mowed at, to encourage healthy root development and efficient water use.
\n\n\n\nBermjda (common): 1¼ to 1½ inch
Zoysia: ¾ to 1 inch
St. Augustine: 3 to 4 inches
Centipede: 1 to 2 inches
Carpet: 1 ½ to 2 inches
Thanks to high levels of humidity and rainfall, it’s not necessary to water heavily in our area. Most lawns do well with a deep watering of an inch or so each week or so. It’s easy to tell when your lawn is thirsty. Footsteps will leave prints for several minutes after the grass has is walked on, and the individual blades will curl. Water when you see these signs to prevent any long-term damage and keep the lawn happy.
\n\n\n\nWatering in early morning is always the best policy. It allows the maximum amount of water to seep into the soil.
\n\n\n\nSince many of our household appliances are integrated, it makes sense for irrigation to join the trend. Water conservation is effortless if you use smart irrigation technology. There are a number of systems available with more coming online all the time.
\n\n\n\nSmart irrigation takes a traditional irrigation controller to the next level. Rather than operating solely on a timer, these systems also incorporate water-saving features. Sensors adjust the optimal run time on sprinklers based on current local weather conditions. That means there’s no need to turn the controller off after a hard rain or to adjust the timing on a watering session to compensate for a hot, dry week. This technology takes guesswork and manual resets out of watering and makes sure that your lawn receives the amount of water it needs when it needs it.
\n\n\n\nThe drive to conserve water is a community effort. Here in Baton Rouge, citizens recently had an opportunity to be a part of a citywide challenge to conserve water and enter to win some prizes from the Wyland Foundation. The challenge lasted through April and was spearheaded by Mayor Sharon Weston Broome. While the 2019 challenge has passed, keep an ear to the ground next spring, or check online to see if Baton Rouge joins in again.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Baton Rouge? Visit our Baton Rouge Lawn Care page.
\n\n\n\nFrank Naper is a nature enthusiast who loves to travel and explore new cities, taking nature photographs along the way.
After seeing the beautiful native trees and other native Washington plants at the Washington Park Arboretum or North Cascades National Park, you may wish to recreate the organic landscape in your own yard. This list of the best native plants for Washington will help you accomplish that goal. Why grow native plants? Native plants can […]
\n","content":"\nAfter seeing the beautiful native trees and other native Washington plants at the Washington Park Arboretum or North Cascades National Park, you may wish to recreate the organic landscape in your own yard. This list of the best native plants for Washington will help you accomplish that goal.
\n\n\n\nWhy grow native plants? Native plants can reduce the time you spend growing and maintaining your vegetation. These plants are also beneficial to the environment. Here are some examples:
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEach of the five regions within Eastern and Western Washington has multiple counties. Some plants may be listed as native in a region and not listed as native in every county of the region.
\n\n\n\nHowever, counties within a region have the same general climate. The following plants are native to all regions of Washington, but may not be documented as native to all counties within the region. Your local nursery should have more detailed information on these native plants and your specific county.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/52704209231_8c892efc77_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Knight / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nRed flowering currant, also known as blood currant, boasts red flowers that sprout in the spring. It’s native to Washington and surrounding areas like Oregon, Idaho, and British Columbia. This shrub produces edible berries that have been used to make pies and juice. Red flowering currant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThis plant grows best in rocky, well-drained soil, but tolerates poor soil. Once it’s established, it’s drought tolerant. But it needs plenty of water in its first one to two seasons.
\n\n\n\nBlood currant’s drought tolerance makes it ideal for rain gardens or xeriscape designs. This shrub is also a good idea for hedges. Prune it after flowers bloom to ensure the blossoms continue to sprout.
\n\n\n\nNative Regions: Western Washington, and parts of the Rocky Mountain, East Cascade, and Plateau Region
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Deciduous shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers well-drained, rocky soil but tolerates poor soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet sage-rosemary
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water the first two summers of establishment
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8 to 10 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None known
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/pexels-marek-kupiec-10178701-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nPacific bleeding heart is great for Washington homeowners who want to start a garden quickly. This flower grows fast. It has heart-shaped white flowers and leaves that resemble ferns, which explains why it’s also known as fern-leaf bleeding heart.
\n\n\n\nPacific bleeding heart prefers full sun to partial shade. If your property has a lot of trees or buildings blocking the sun, bleeding heart will still grow, but it won’t blossom as many flowers.
\n\n\n\nButterflies and hummingbirds flock to this plant. Pacific bleeding heart adds a delicate look to shade gardens and borders. This flower is also great for cottage gardens and slopes. Bleeding heart is toxic and can cause stomach and skin irritation, so be careful when handling it.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Western Washington and parts of Rocky Mountain and the Eastern Cascades
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade. Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates full shade, but fewer flowers will bloom.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: None
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/30284962355_651a2441c9_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bureau of Land Management / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nYou’ll see common camas growing on the eastern and western sides of the Cascades. Lovely light blue flowers bloom from late spring to early summer. The petals grow at the top of long blades that resemble grass.
\n\n\n\nCommon camas is highly disease and pest tolerant. It needs full sun and requires constant moisture while growing, but adapts to drier conditions after the flowers sprout.
\n\n\n\nThis wildflower is best when planted in groups. If you plan on planting in the fall, common camas is for you. It yields the best results when planted in the autumn. It compliments cottage gardens and shrubs or roses as an underplanting. Bumblebees and beetles can’t get enough of the grass-like wildflower.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Western Washington and Rocky Mountain Region; native to most of the Plateau Region and Eastern Cascade.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering plant/wildflower
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, very little shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: High organic matter with good drainage; tolerates seasonally moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Spicy; Smells like molasses when boiled
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average /(Natively found in moist, spring meadows that dry by late spring)
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 30 inches
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low to medium
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"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\nRed-osier dogwood is best described as a small red twig. It’s a Washington favorite because it adds color late in the season when it turns red in the fall and winter. Butterflies and pollinators enjoy the flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. Birds partake of the berries that follow.
\n\n\n\nRed-osier adds a wonderful splash of color to shrub borders and alongside ponds. It’s also great for rain gardens.
\n\n\n\nA benefit of this shrub is that it’s adaptable to many soil types. A drawback is that it’s vulnerable to many diseases, like leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. However, it has no known pest problems in the Northwest region, making it a good choice for Washington homeowners. Another benefit is that its roots help reduce erosion.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Western and Eastern Washington; native to most of the Puget Sound Lowlands
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 2 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand, moist, adaptable to a wide range of soils.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 9 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. Use a spade to root prune if you want to stop it from vigorously spreading. Prune in early spring to encourage new stem growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Mahonia_aquifolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Meggar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nTall Oregon grape is low maintenance, making it a great choice for homeowners without a lot of time. It thrives in shade or full sun and a variety of soil conditions. Oregon grape is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory medicinal properties.
\n\n\n\nIt has bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and edible, bitter-blue berries that appear in the summer. This shrub attracts birds, wildlife, and pollinators. Tall Oregon grape makes a delicious hedge or addition to shade gardens.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Most of Western Washington and Eastern Washington, except for some parts of the Plateau Region
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, acidic, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Honey
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/15037160035_4ed81031c8_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nVine maple grows well in open areas and is natively found with the Pacific dogwood and the Douglas-fir. Vine maple is said to be one of the best native trees for residential yards.
\n\n\n\nIt has purple and white flowers. Mammals and songbirds enjoy the red berries that appear after the flowers bloom in the spring.
\n\n\n\nThis plant is best for yards with full sun to partial shade. It grows well in multiple soil types. Vine maple grows up to 30 feet tall and is classified as a shrub or tree. It’s low-maintenance and deer-resistant, but it may be affected by honey fungus and aphids.
\n\n\n\nVine maple provides a great visual appeal in cottage gardens. If you’re looking for a larger addition to a rain garden, give vine maple a try.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Western Washington and parts of Eastern Cascade and the Plateau Region closest to Western Washington
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Small tree, shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 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\nFragrance: None
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 30 feet tall, 15 to 20 feet wide
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/48267568732_29cdb6a664_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mount Rainier National Park / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nSalal is another native plant, like tall Oregon grape, that is known for its medical value. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-cramping properties. The blue berries that appear in late summer have been used as a sweetener and in baked goods.
\n\n\n\nSalal spreads and eventually makes an appealing ground cover, making it well-suited for a low-maintenance landscaping scheme where you’re replacing some or most of your grass. Salal is also great for shade gardens and on slopes. For best results, prune after the flowers bloom. If your property gets a lot of shade, salal is an ideal choice. It thrives in full to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Western Washington, and limited counties in Eastern Cascade and the Rocky Mountains
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, acidic, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Smells like wintergreen
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: Grows up to 5 feet in shade and up to 3 feet in full sun.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: High
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/39114468694_a55e6cddd3_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nEvergreen huckleberry has a magnificent display of white flowers and reddish leaves that appear in the spring. Wildlife and birds are attracted to the berries that arrive in the summer. These berries are edible and have been used in syrups and pies.
\n\n\n\nHuckleberry requires high maintenance, but it will grow well on your property whether your yard is shady or sunny. It makes a tasty hedge or shrub border. If you’re looking to add some edible character to a rain garden or xeriscape design, this evergreen is an optimal choice.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Parts of Western Washington; No parts of Eastern Washington
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Needled Evergreen
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Sun or shade; prefers partial or full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Tolerates sand, clay, and soils low in organic content; requires acidic soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Musky
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Feb – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, Medium to wet
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 10 feet tall; grows taller in shade
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: High
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Serviceberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nServiceberry, also known by its common name, Juneberry, adds spectacular fall color as its leaves turn red-orange. Pollinators are attracted to the white flowers that sprout in the middle of spring. Birds enjoy the edible berries that taste like blueberries. The berries have been used to make jellies and jams.
\n\n\n\nServiceberry grows in shady yards, but the berries grow best when the plant receives full sunlight. If the root suckers the plant develops are permitted to grow, serviceberry will grow as a shrub. Otherwise, you’ll have a taller, fruit-bearing tree in your landscape.
\n\n\n\nThis plant is great for an edible garden, pollinator garden, or planted on a lawn or near patios.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub or tree
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sand, loam (silt), clay, well-drained and moist
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 25 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: High
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Indian-Plum-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Wsiegmund / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIndian plum has clustered white flowers that hang downward and appear in late winter through early spring. It’s natively found in moist and dry areas like stream banks, hillsides, and along roads.
\n\n\n\nThe berries start out orange and turn a bluish-black when they ripen in the summer. Hummingbirds, butterflies, and pollinators are attracted to the flower’s nectar. The berries attract bears, small mammals, and birds.
\n\n\n\nA yard that gets full sun and some shade is best for this shrub. It tolerates dryish soil but does not adapt to wet soil.
\n\n\n\nIndian plum looks great in shrub borders, city gardens, and cottage gardens.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Western Washington and limited areas of the Plateau Region
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub or tree
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 6 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Acidic, fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Almond
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8 to 20 feet tall
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\nEastern Washington’s native plants include:
\n\n\n\nWestern Washington’s native plants include:
\n\n\n\nChoosing plants in your region’s USDA hardiness zone is the best way to pick native plants that will thrive with the least amount of effort. There will still be some work involved, but you’ll have fewer watering, fertilizing, and other maintenance tasks because the plants have adapted to your area.
\n\n\n\nYour yard’s characteristics are also important. You don’t want to choose plants that thrive in specific soils if your property is not of that type. On the other hand, some plants adapt to multiple soil conditions and pH levels. If you’re not sure about your soil, it may be best to choose more adaptable plants.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll also want to consider your lifestyle. If you’re constantly pulling children away from the garden and shrubs, you may want to make sure you only plant non-toxic plant varieties.
\n\n\n\nDo your research to make sure your plant selection fits in well with your home’s conditions, maintenance preferences, and family composition.
\n\n\n\nSeattle’s native plants include:
\n\n\n\nTacoma’s native plants include:
\n\n\n\nIt can be difficult to distinguish which plants are native. Some non-native plants have parts of their name that are the same as native plants. Here are a few examples of non-native plants:
\n\n\n\nFollowing are some native Washington plants with common or scientific names similar to the non-native plants listed earlier:
\n\n\n\nNative plants are everywhere. They’re in your neighborhood, at parks, and even in commercial landscapes at malls and business parks. To find native plants you can take home with you, the Washington Native Plant Society is a great resource. You can learn about gardening events, native plant programs, and local nurseries.
\n\n\n\nThe sooner you’re done planting your attractive array of native perennials, dogwoods, and hemlocks, the sooner you can make it to the Washington State Fair. Let a lawn care pro near you do the mowing and edging. We have trusted lawn care pros in Spokane, Seattle, Tacoma, and many other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: brewbooks / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Washington","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/1789c/Salal.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/107df/Salal.jpg 320w,\n/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/293e9/Salal.jpg 500w,\n/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/f2cbb/Salal.jpg 800w,\n/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/1789c/Salal.jpg 960w,\n/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/c26c2/Salal.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/1dd6e/Salal.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/67b76/Salal.webp 320w,\n/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/8df11/Salal.webp 500w,\n/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/98a65/Salal.webp 800w,\n/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/1dd6e/Salal.webp 960w,\n/static/bb57de0a003a4ad60406c45a63b3d4cb/3cc96/Salal.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Washington | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Find out the best native plants for Washington to support a diverse and stable local ecosystem."}}},{"node":{"id":"55544e92-5767-5ed0-9e58-cbdcd6d01e03","slug":"best-grass-types-central-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/central-virginia/best-grass-types-central-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"25cd38af-fffb-5477-8494-0145c9f36f4f","name":"Central Virginia","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/central-virginia/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"Home to the state capital, Central Virginia is a historic region with plenty to offer for its nature-loving residents. You can enjoy long, refreshing walks in Powhatan State Park and cherish everything that mother nature has to offer. But every once in a while, you just feel like sluggin’ it in your backyard. When you […]
\n","content":"\nHome to the state capital, Central Virginia is a historic region with plenty to offer for its nature-loving residents. You can enjoy long, refreshing walks in Powhatan State Park and cherish everything that mother nature has to offer. But every once in a while, you just feel like sluggin’ it in your backyard. When you choose the best grass types for Central Virginia, you can transform that grim-looking turf into a lush green lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. They actively grow in late spring and summer, entering dormancy as temperatures drop in winter. These turfgrasses have low frost-tolerance, enjoy high temperatures, and require less water than cool-season grasses. They include bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, centipedegrass, and St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, cool-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They tolerate frost and lower temperatures, actively growing in spring and fall. Cool-season turfgrasses include tall fescue, creeping red fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nCentral Virginia lies in USDA plant hardiness zone 7a, though some parts of Richmond and Chesterfield are in 7b. When it comes to choosing the right turfgrass, the state’s location in the transition zone is a far more decisive factor. The grasses mentioned below are suitable for Central Virginia, and should be able to thrive under the right conditions.
\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\nTall fescue is a perennial, bunch-type grass that can adapt to a wide variety of soils. It withstands drought conditions and hot summers better than other cool-season turfgrasses. Tall fescue performs best in full sun, but is also known for its moderate shade-tolerance.
\n\n\n\nTo get the best out of this cool-season grass, overseeding is recommended to maintain a dense lawn and minimize weed competition. With its notable versatility, tall fescue is a great choice for Central Virginia homeowners.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\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\nPerennial ryegrass is vital for cool-season grass seed mixes in transition zones, including Virginia. It grows well in early spring and fall, but becomes dormant during the summer. Perennial ryegrass is able to survive severe climates, though Virginia is not prone to such conditions. While it can tolerate lightly shaded lawns, it prefers full sun.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial turfgrass is used to overseed warm-season grasses to extend the lawn’s winter green color.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is another great choice for a Central Virginia lawn. It spreads by both rhizomes and tillers, forming a dense sod. New shoots are primarily produced in the spring and late summer. However, new shoots and leaves are produced year-round in the transition zone. This grass type has good drought tolerance, but little to no shade tolerance. For shady lawns, fine fescue might be a better choice.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass can tolerate heavy foot traffic, making it a great choice for families who enjoy playing Cornhole.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a bunch-type grass with several species, including creeping red and chewings. Its needle-like leaves are quite unique and distinctive. It is a slow-growing grass that does not tolerate poorly-drained soils. Seed mixtures of fine fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are commonly found in garden centers across the state.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is the most shade-tolerant cool-season turfgrass, with all species able to thrive in our Central Virginia climate.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as Chewings, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is one of the most cold-tolerant warm-season grasses. It produces a dense, cushiony turf when established. It can withstand wear and tear, and requires less water than most cool-season grasses. Its thick growth helps it control crabgrass and other summer weeds. Perennial ryegrass can be used to overseed zoysia for a green winter color.
\n\n\n\nDuring the hot summer months, zoysiagrass will boost your lawn’s visual appeal with an attractive green color. If you enjoy lawn games and outdoor activities, this warm-season turfgrass won’t let you down.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although, it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: 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\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a warm-season grass that spreads by both stolons and rhizomes. It has excellent drought, wear, and salt tolerance. Bermudagrass enters dormancy in early winter, which is when the leaves turn straw-brown in color. Due to its rapid growth rate, this turfgrass may develop excessive thatch. Fortunately, it is capable of recovering from injury very quickly.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass will perform very poorly in lawns with constant shade. Despite that, it is well-adapted to most soils and can be used in athletic fields and golf courses.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in 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\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid Bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common Bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 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\nIf your lawn regularly endures high traffic, a mixture of turf-type tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass is an excellent choice. Kentucky bluegrass has a spreading root system that allows your turf to quickly recover from excessive traffic or drought damage. As mentioned previously, both grass types are suitable for Central Virginia’s climate.
Centipedegrass is a warm-season grass that can only be grown in the Tidewater area. Additionally, this turfgrass cannot withstand heavy foot traffic, so your lawn would be much better off with zoysia or Kentucky bluegrass.
Not only can cogongrass be found in Central Virginia, but throughout the entire state. It is an aggressive and invasive perennial grass that creates dense groundcovers, displacing native plants and some ground-nesting animals.
You can control this invasive species by mowing, grazing, or burning. Unfortunately, none of these methods are entirely effective. To completely remove this plant from your back or front yard, the rhizomes must be destroyed.
Another way to deal with this problem is herbicide control. Imazapyr and glyphosate are two active ingredients that have proven successful in dealing with this non-native plant.
The best grass types for Northern Virginia include:
● Tall fescue
● Kentucky bluegrass
● Perennial ryegrass
● Fine fescue
● Zoysiagrass
● Bermudagrass
With 6 grass types to choose from, the decision-making process might get slightly difficult. You should consider your lawn’s soil type, sun exposure levels, and activity level to help you choose the right grass for your turf. Add some more research to your thinking, and you’ll get to plant some native trees or wildflowers to help boost the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nBut why stop there when you can create the ultimate outdoor space? Consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your Virginia lawn, including mulching and hardscaping.
\n\n\n\nLooking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Powhatan, Mechanicsville, Glen Allen, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Karen Blaha / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Central Virginia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.444043321299639,"src":"/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/1789c/lawn-in-UVA-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/107df/lawn-in-UVA-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/293e9/lawn-in-UVA-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/f2cbb/lawn-in-UVA-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/1789c/lawn-in-UVA-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/c26c2/lawn-in-UVA-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/1dd6e/lawn-in-UVA-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/67b76/lawn-in-UVA-1.webp 320w,\n/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/8df11/lawn-in-UVA-1.webp 500w,\n/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/98a65/lawn-in-UVA-1.webp 800w,\n/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/1dd6e/lawn-in-UVA-1.webp 960w,\n/static/069518ca1f7eb31e8a051cdc22a52915/3cc96/lawn-in-UVA-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Central Virginia | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tired of looking at patchy spots on your lawn? Transform your grim-looking turf with the best grass types for Central Virginia."}}},{"node":{"id":"9ad816e8-7548-5607-883f-27f5e0bf10e5","slug":"best-grass-seeds-new-hampshire","path":"/lawn-care/nh/best-grass-seeds-new-hampshire/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Abdul Wadood is a writer and SEO specialist from India. He recently started writing about lawns and enjoys it. In his spare time, he enjoys going on trips.","name":"Abdul Wadood","id":"236127ca-c7a6-50bb-9ab7-dd3e7e3fe6d8","path":"/author/abdul-wadood/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/395f0103c8419fd32e2c021818b78121?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"ce61d165-8da6-58e6-9252-345a1299e95e","name":"New Hampshire","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nh/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"New Hampshire is among the snowiest states in the nation. Though the climate can be harsh in winter, it’s not impossible to have a great lawn in New Hampshire if you know the four grass seeds that thrive in this challenging climate. Good grass is the key to a lush, green, and healthy lawn. Let’s […]
\n","content":"\nNew Hampshire is among the snowiest states in the nation. Though the climate can be harsh in winter, it’s not impossible to have a great lawn in New Hampshire if you know the four grass seeds that thrive in this challenging climate.
\n\n\n\nGood grass is the key to a lush, green, and healthy lawn. Let’s take a look at the grass types that do well here.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThere are primarily two types of grasses:
\n\n\n\nIt probably comes as no surprise that cool-season grasses are best suited to New Hampshire’s harsh winter.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a closer look at each grass type:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass looks beautiful with its fine-textured, dark-green grass blades, which is why it’s so popular across wide swaths of the North and Midwest. It’s also soft on bare feet.
\n\n\n\nBut if you’re considering Kentucky bluegrass, you should know that it holds up under heavy use only moderately well. It withstands kids and pets but maybe not a neighborhood soccer match. On the plus side, it recovers quickly from damage.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass isn’t a good option for people who want low-maintenance lawns as it requires regular mowing and fertilization. It’s also prone to some diseases.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man's](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red-Fescue-a-species-of-fine-fescue.jpg\")
Red Fescue – a species of fine fescue
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
Fine fescue is a highly adaptable grass that grows well in full sun and shade. It forms a lush lawn with green, fine-textured grass blades. Fine fescue is a low-maintenance grass that requires minimal watering and moderate mowing.
\n\n\n\nOn the down side, while fine fescue can handle normal outdoor usage, it doesn’t tolerate a great deal of foot traffic, and it takes time to recover from damage.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTurf-type tall fescue features dark green, coarse-textured grass blades. This grass doesn’t look great when used alone, but you can combine it with other grasses for a better appearance. Tall fescue grows best in full sun and resists disease pretty well.
\n\n\n\nTurf-type tall fescue can handle occasional backyard parties, but it can’t quickly recover from damage. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance turf, this is not it: Tall fescue requires frequent mowing and fertilization.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass germinates in less than a week, making it one of the fastest-growing grasses. It looks beautiful with fine-textured, dark green grass blades. Perennial ryegrass grows best under constant direct sunlight.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass can tolerate high foot traffic, but it takes time to recover from damages. This grass is prone to red thread and gray leaf spot. But with proper maintenance, you can minimize the damage or prevent the disease altogether.
\n\n\n\nBest Grasses at a Glance
\n\n\n\n| Grass | Shade Tolerance | Drought Tolerance | Maintenance Needs | Disease Resistance |
| Kentucky bluegrass | Low | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Fine fescue | Moderate | High | Low | Moderate |
| Turf-type tall fescue | Moderate | Low | High | Low |
| Perennial ryegrass | Low | Moderate | Moderate | High |
Fine fescue and turf-type tall fescue can handle shade.
Fine fescue can survive with minimal watering.
Fine fescue is the best option for a low-maintenance lawn.
All grasses listed here survive well in New Hampshire’s cool climate. So the next thing to consider is which grass best suits your lifestyle. Some require more maintenance than others, some handle drought better, and some stand up to the pounding of backyard barbecues and other get-togethers.
\n\n\n\nYou should also consider the rest of your landscape. If you want to add some color to your yard we recommend you invest in native plants that grow naturally in New Hampshire’s climate and can survive with little to no maintenance.
\n\n\n\nProper maintenance is critical for a lawn. If you want to enjoy a beautiful garden without breaking a sweat, Wikilawn New Hamshire lawn pros can help.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Congreve Hall / Kylejtod at en.wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Seeds for New Hampshire","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/1789c/Congreve-Hall.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/107df/Congreve-Hall.jpg 320w,\n/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/293e9/Congreve-Hall.jpg 500w,\n/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/f2cbb/Congreve-Hall.jpg 800w,\n/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/1789c/Congreve-Hall.jpg 960w,\n/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/c26c2/Congreve-Hall.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/1dd6e/Congreve-Hall.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/67b76/Congreve-Hall.webp 320w,\n/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/8df11/Congreve-Hall.webp 500w,\n/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/98a65/Congreve-Hall.webp 800w,\n/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/1dd6e/Congreve-Hall.webp 960w,\n/static/3563138be36d1deca4e76ff133aa7cd0/3cc96/Congreve-Hall.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Seeds for New Hampshire","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"New Hampshire gets bitterly cold, but that doesn't mean you can't have a beautiful lawn. Here are four cool-season grass types that do well here."}}},{"node":{"id":"7a337484-8ea1-5e71-9744-079411339872","slug":"best-grass-central-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/best-grass-central-texas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Abdul Wadood is a writer and SEO specialist from India. He recently started writing about lawns and enjoys it. In his spare time, he enjoys going on trips.","name":"Abdul Wadood","id":"236127ca-c7a6-50bb-9ab7-dd3e7e3fe6d8","path":"/author/abdul-wadood/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/395f0103c8419fd32e2c021818b78121?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 2nd, 2023","excerpt":"Central Texas is hot, dry, and sunny most of the year — not ideal conditions for growing a beautiful lawn. But while many homeowners here have gone the xeriscape route, know that it IS possible to have a lush, green lawn. Fortunately, many grasses have adapted to our famously arid climate. So if you’re looking […]
\n","content":"\nCentral Texas is hot, dry, and sunny most of the year — not ideal conditions for growing a beautiful lawn. But while many homeowners here have gone the xeriscape route, know that it IS possible to have a lush, green lawn.
\n\n\n\nFortunately, many grasses have adapted to our famously arid climate. So if you’re looking to plant a new lawn, consider these options and then be sure to provide the care it needs to thrive in these challenging conditions.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nBefore diving deeper, here’s a quick overlook of the two primary types of grasses.
\n\n\n\nCentral Texas has a humid subtropical climate, meaning the summers are long and hot, while the winters are short and cold. Sometimes, the region experiences windy, wet winters.
\n\n\n\nDrought- and heat-tolerant grasses perform best in Central Texas, so, we recommend you choose warm-season grasses. Here’s a list of the best warm-season grass types.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWith its green, medium-coarse blades, Zoysiagrass is an attractive option. It’s durable but takes time to recover from damage. Zoysiagrass has an extensive root system, making it tolerant to drought and shade.
\n\n\n\nWhile it’s popular throughout Texas, Zoysiagrass is on the expensive side because it’s both hardy and requires little maintenance. It needs little fertilization and can resist diseases and insects. Zoysiagrass can take a long time to spread and form dense turf, but it grows quicker under full sun.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass grows fast and has a beautiful dark-green appearance. It’s highly durable and quickly recovers from damage. In fact, you can even find Bermudagrass on football fields.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass grows best in full sun and can tolerate drought. It will go dormant when it’s too cold, which is rare in Central Texas. On the downside, Bermudagrass is high-maintenance. It requires frequent mowing and fertilization.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St.-Augustinegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is one of the best grasses for Central Texas. It has a gorgeous appearance with broad, dark green grass blades. St. Augustinegrass tolerates cold better than Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass, but, it goes dormant when soil temperatures go below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a bunch of trees on your lawn, St. Augustinegrass is a great option, as it does just fine in the shade. It tolerates drought, too. St. Augustinegrass grows fast, but that also means it requires frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, this species doesn’t tolerate high foot traffic, so, if you plan to use your lawn heavily, we recommend you avoid this grass.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass has green, medium-textured grass blades. It grows slowly but forms a dense lawn once established. This turf grows best under full sun but also tolerates shade and drought.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass can resist diseases and doesn’t require much maintenance. It has a shallow root system, making it unsuitable for saline soils. Centipedegrass can handle kids and pets playing in your yard but not really heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/buffalograss.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is popular with homeowners across Central Texas. Much of its appeal owes to the fact that it’s soft to walk on, thanks to its fine-textured grass blades, but it doesn’t tolerate high foot traffic. Buffalograss grows best in full sun and doesn’t require frequent watering. Overwatering invites weeds.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is a low-maintenance turf that grows in almost all soil types. It also resists diseases and insects.
\n\n\n\nBest Grasses at a Glance
\n\n\n\n| Warm-Season Grasses | Spreads By | Shade Tolerance | Drought Tolerance | Maintenance Needs | Disease Resistance |
| Zoysiagrass | Rhizomes and stolons | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Bermudagrass | Rhizomes and stolons | Low | High | High | Moderate |
| St. Augustinegrass | Stolons | High | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Centipedegrass | Stolons | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Buffalograss | Stolons | Low | High | Moderate | Low |
St. Augustinegrass does really well in the shade.
If you plan to use your lawn heavily, go for Bermudagrass. Zoysiagrass also tolerates heavy traffic, but it takes time to recover when damaged.
If you want a low-maintenance lawn, Zoysiagrass and buffalograss are the best options.
Bermudagrass and buffalograss have the best tolerance to drought.
Central Texas experiences dry, hot weather for most of the year, so, you won’t go wrong choosing any of these warm-season grasses. It’s important, also, to pick a grass type that best suits your lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nWhat’s next after choosing the correct grass? Select the best native plants. Proper maintenance is also essential to enjoy a healthy lawn year-round.
\n\n\n\nIf you want a gorgeous lawn but don’t have the time to spend on it, Wikilawn’s Central Texas lawn care pros can help.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Tarleton State University, Central Texas / Jzbale / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"The 5 Best Grasses for Central Texas Lawns ","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7883755588673622,"src":"/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/1789c/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/107df/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/293e9/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/f2cbb/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/1789c/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/c26c2/Old_Main_Campus-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/1dd6e/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/67b76/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 320w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/8df11/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 500w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/98a65/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 800w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/1dd6e/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 960w,\n/static/5546a77c0ed4c1affdf91dbc78373ed6/3cc96/Old_Main_Campus-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 5 Best Grasses for Central Texas Lawns | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"We get long, hot summers and short, cold winters in Central Texas. Here are the grasses that grow best in this climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"7db317bf-6ab1-52ce-8258-7035af4cf725","slug":"best-grass-types-miami","path":"/lawn-care/fl/miami/best-grass-types-miami/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"529a6382-d2d9-58ab-b746-9f305ef45bd4","name":"Miami","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/miami/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"One thing is for sure: Miami is known for its beautiful beaches. Packed with non-stop nightlife, diverse cultural arts, and luxury shopping malls, it’s no surprise this colorful city is a resident’s dream. But thanks to Miami’s tropical monsoon climate, residents enjoy their backyards and water sports year-round. Show off a thick green lawn you […]
\n","content":"\nOne thing is for sure: Miami is known for its beautiful beaches. Packed with non-stop nightlife, diverse cultural arts, and luxury shopping malls, it’s no surprise this colorful city is a resident’s dream. But thanks to Miami’s tropical monsoon climate, residents enjoy their backyards and water sports year-round. Show off a thick green lawn you are proud of with one of these five best grass types perfect for South Florida’s humid climate.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou can always count on South Florida to be humid. The tropical climate is characterized by warm temperatures, frequent rain, and thunderstorms. With average winter temperatures in the mid-70s, Miami is best suited to warm-season grass varieties. These grass types grow best when temperatures hover between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, making them ideal for the southern United States.
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nMiami’s tropical climate creates ideal conditions for weeds. Bermudagrass is a hardy, fine-textured variety with deep roots that make it resistant to heavy traffic, drought, and Florida weeds like goosegrass and buttonweed. The aggressive turfgrass recovers from damage quickly, making it an ideal choice for athletic fields, golf courses, and even home lawns.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is medium to dark green with a dense appearance. It establishes quickly, thrives in the sun, adapts to most soils, and is salt-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, army worms, sod webworms, and nematodes
\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![\"bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/saint-augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nPalmetto, to Miami it’s a giant bug and a cultivar of St. Augustinegrass. This dense, blue-green grass is the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass variety. It is easy to establish and quick-growing. Unfortunately, it does not stand up to heavy traffic and is susceptible to chinch bugs.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augstinegrass loves the warm, Florida weather and tolerates the salty air. It is coarse-textured but less dense than bermudagrass. Bitter Blue, a cultivar of St. Augustinegrass, is chinch bug resistant and popular in many areas.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, army worms, grubs, and nematodes
\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 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. This hardy grass shares all of the popular characteristics of bermudagrass but is more shade-tolerant. Cultivars of zoysiagrass are superb choices for homes, athletic fields, and golf courses, standing up to heavy traffic, low mow heights, drought, cold, and shade.
\n\n\n\nThese grass varieties have low fertilization requirements and grow densely and slowly, blocking out weeds. Zoysiagrass is one of the lowest-maintenance South Florida grasses. It is salt-tolerant, disease-resistant, and not prone to insect infestation.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and lead spot can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, army worms, chinch bugs, sod webworms, and 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 grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bahia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMost South Floridians love the feel of sand between their toes, and the resilient variety Bahiagrass agrees. This grass loves sandy soil and is drought-resistant, thanks to deep roots. It grows slowly and requires less mowing than other varieties.
\n\n\n\nBahiagrass has a coarse texture and light-green color. It requires little fertilization and most Miami homeowners do not need supplemental irrigation for this variety to thrive. Unfortunately, it does not stand up to salt spray, heavy traffic, or shade.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Growth rate is moderate to high, so plan to mow often during the growing season
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 3-4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; dollar spot may occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; mole crickets may cause problems
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soils, does well in sandy loam
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bahiagrass is grown in the Gulf Coast and Southeastern U.S; does best in acidic soils — not the best grass if your soils are naturally alkaline; doesn’t tolerate saltwater
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is a low-maintenance and slow-growing cultivar, requiring little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain green. The light-green grass loves the sandy, acidic soils of South Florida, but the smooth, flat blades do not handle heavy traffic, shade, cold, or herbicides well. Centipedegrass is prone to pests and disease when overwatered.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate; prone to ground pearl insects, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, lawn caterpillars, and nematodes
\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 in temperatures as low as 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Miami’s tropical weather allows for year-round growth most years.
You should plant your grass seed between April and July. This gives the seed a full growing season before the cold winter.
Chinch bugs love the sun. They are small and difficult to spot. Watch for yellow or brown patches in your lawn and contact a lawn care professional if you see signs of activity. In South Florida, chinch bugs love many grass types, including bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, and zoysiagrass.
South Florida grass varieties thrive in warm weather, salty air, and sandy, acidic soil. Different varieties have different characteristics and needs, so choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nYour grass comes together with plants, flowers, and outdoor furniture to complete your home landscape. There are many hurricane-resistant landscaping options available for Miami, so you can spend less time worrying about your yard and more time enjoying the pristine beaches before hurricane season rolls around. For even more low-maintenance plants, check out our list of the best native plants that will thrive in the tropical climate.
\n\n\n\nA tropical oasis is within reach so long as you provide the rum runner. Contact a Miami lawn care pro today to keep your lawn and landscaping green and chinch-bug-free.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Miami","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1789c/Miami-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/107df/Miami-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/293e9/Miami-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/f2cbb/Miami-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1789c/Miami-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/c26c2/Miami-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1dd6e/Miami-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/67b76/Miami-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/8df11/Miami-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/98a65/Miami-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/1dd6e/Miami-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/92497b31dc60c9c15d0d935bc5f8faba/3cc96/Miami-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Miami | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, salt-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Miami, and these five species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"02895bd5-14bc-5054-b48c-cb1b0972acb9","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-plano","path":"/lawn-care/tx/plano/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-plano/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Stuart Kushner is a writer and aspiring product designer based in New York City. When he isn’t doing either, Stuart enjoys heavy metal music, exercise, and trying new food and drinks.","name":"Stuart Kushner","id":"82e51515-0cd6-5b19-a026-570eb408a24e","path":"/author/stuart-kushner/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/159400686ba92aeb1f5d3503e0246fc1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"eeca14ff-595b-559f-93ba-b53dc08466da","name":"Plano","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/plano/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"April 11th, 2023","excerpt":"Doing yard work in Plano’s sweltering heat is no fun. Here’s a solution: Transform your landscape with plants that are both attractive and require little maintenance. Check out these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Plano, and you may thank us for saving you time and aggravation. In this article: Native Plants Photo Credit: Public Domain Pictures […]
\n","content":"\nDoing yard work in Plano’s sweltering heat is no fun. Here’s a solution: Transform your landscape with plants that are both attractive and require little maintenance.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Plano, and you may thank us for saving you time and aggravation.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Public Domain Pictures
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want to maximize your garden’s beauty while minimizing the time you put into it, add some native plants.
\n\n\n\nBecause they grow naturally in Plano, native plants are accustomed to its climate and soil conditions, making them more drought-tolerant and pest- and disease-resistant than non-native plants. They also attract pollinators like birds and butterflies, giving the critters a source of food and shelter, so everyone wins.
\n\n\n\nSome of Plano’s best native plants include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of Texas native plants:
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Native-Texas-Xeriscape-Garden-Blooming.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Korye Logan / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nXeriscaping allows you to water your plants enough to keep your lawn healthy and lush but not to the point where you’re wasting water. As a result, you reduce water usage, lowering your water bill.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping incorporates seven principles:
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping also involves water conservation tactics, such as mowing at the proper height and fertilizing once in spring and fall.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\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\nLow-maintenance, drought-tolerant grasses do well in Texas’ intense heat. The ones that work best in this environment are:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of planting low-maintenance grasses:
\n\n\n\n![\"Straggler](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Straggler-Daisy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGround cover is an excellent alternative to grass. They are low-growing flowers and shrubs that crawl horizontally across the ground and are cheaper and require less maintenance than grass. Some ground covers include yellow stonecrop (sedum nuttallianum), straggler daisy (calyptocarpus vialis), and chisme (portulaca pilosa).
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of ground cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Texas-Patio.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Texas Custom Patios / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardscapes are any non-living elements in your yard. Their purpose overall is to improve how your outdoor space functions. For example, adding a fence or gate gives your space more privacy. Hardscapes also add value and curb appeal to your home. Imagine how your home would look to a potential buyer if its yard were covered in beautiful flowers.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of hardscapes are:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nImplementing some of these low-maintenance landscaping techniques allows Plano homeowners to spend less time in the hot sun and more time doing what they love.
\n\n\n\nCall one of Wikilawn’s local pros, and we’ll happily do the work for you. If you have any questions about maintenance services, lawn maintenance, or lawn care, we’ll answer any questions you might have.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Aldridge House / Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Plano Texas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/1789c/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg","srcSet":"/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/107df/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 320w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/293e9/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 500w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/f2cbb/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 800w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/1789c/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 960w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/c26c2/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/1dd6e/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/67b76/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 320w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/8df11/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 500w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/98a65/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 800w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/1dd6e/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 960w,\n/static/81bee832e43bed31cb5487f121caee74/3cc96/Aldridge-House-Plano-Tx.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Plano, Texas","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Rather than toil away in the hot sun doing lawn work, try some of these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your Plano yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"ab6ec02c-3d55-569a-b53a-1de893d11b12","slug":"best-perennials-delaware","path":"/lawn-care/de/best-perennials-delaware/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"0ce95d41-82d7-5ce1-a6c9-4942e40ae6b9","name":"Delaware","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/de/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 5th, 2023","excerpt":"Perennials are a great way to add a yearly burst of color to any landscape, and in Delaware there are so many to choose from. The 10 great perennials for your Delaware landscape below are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive in our temperate climate and its four distinct seasons. In this article: 1. […]
\n","content":"\nPerennials are a great way to add a yearly burst of color to any landscape, and in Delaware there are so many to choose from. The 10 great perennials for your Delaware landscape below are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive in our temperate climate and its four distinct seasons.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Giant-Sunflower-Helianthus-Giganteus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe deSousa / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, the giant sunflower is a real showstopper that grows up to 12 feet. This plant is easy to take care of and tolerates dry weather. Additionally, it’s a magnet for bees and a host for various butterfly species. Plus, its seeds are a common snack for birds.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be careful, because the giant sunflower is severely toxic to pets and various animals. It has some toxic effects on humans, too.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wood-Lily-Lilium-Philadelphicum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe showy, upward-facing blossoms of the wood lily make it a stunning addition to any landscape. The plant was once commonly seen but is now considered a threatened and endangered species in many states.
\n\n\n\nWhile it’s not a Delaware native, you can certainly let the wood lily accompany your yard and help its species thrive, especially if you want to attract wildlife like hummingbirds, butterflies, and even rabbits.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bunch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Butterfly-Milkweed-Symphyotrichum-Novae-Angliae.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nButterfly milkweed is resistant, beautiful, and useful to local wildlife. Within 2 years, this plant produces striking orange blossoms that serve as food for various pollinators. But that’s not the only benefit this easy-care plant offers to the local wildlife; milkweed is also the only host plant for the monarch butterfly.
\n\n\n\nTake caution, though, as this is a toxic plant.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/New-England-Aster-Symphyotrichum-Novae-Angliae.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe charming New England aster produces delicate, purple petals that are a pleasure to grow in any landscape. This plant also feeds wildlife like bees and butterflies, and it’s a great cut flower for arrangements. If you’re in the market for low-maintenance plant options, New England aster is a fitting choice because it doesn’t need much watering and can often just live off rainwater.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-Coneflower-Echinacea-purpurea-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nIf you want a real showstopper, purple coneflower may be what you’re looking for. Its pink-purple flowers are not only stunning to look at, but they attract wildlife such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and songbirds. The plant may, however, sometimes suffer from diseases, so be sure to take care of it properly.
\n\n\n\nHowever, practice caution, as this plant is toxic.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PixaBay
\n\n\n\nFor a yellow pop of color, you need to look no further than black-eyed Susan, also called yellow coneflower; a popular perennial that may take a long time to bloom for the first time, but once it does, it stays in bloom for months. It looks stunning either on its own or combined with its purple counterpart. Plus, it’s another favorite of bees, butterflies, and songbirds.
\n\n\n\nAlthough this plant is eager to reseed, other plants keep it in check. Other than that, black-eyed Susan makes an easy-care addition to your lawn. It’s adaptable and resistant to stressors like heat, drought, and cold.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cardinal-Flower-Lobelia-cardinalis-2.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: linnaeus / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe cardinal flower blooms with vibrant red petals in the summer. Because it thrives in wet conditions, it’s perfect for a rain garden. Although it needs frequent watering, cardinal flower is otherwise easy to care for. Plus, butterflies like to snack on the flower’s nectar.
\n\n\n\nAll parts of the plant are severely poisonous, though, so practice caution.
\n\n\n\n![\"Different](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-Phlox-Phlox-Paniculata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bff / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nGarden phlox is a showy perennial that grows in forests, woodlands, prairies, and other natural habitats. It blossoms with pink, purple, or white dome-shaped clusters that can make any landscape look stunning.
\n\n\n\nPhlox species are usually not toxic, but there’s a lack of data surrounding garden phlox, so practice caution. Also, take note that garden phlox is likely to encounter issues with insect pests and diseases, so it needs extra care in that area.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Lance-Leaved-Coreopsis-Coreopsis-Lanceolata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William L. Farr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLance-leaved coreopsis, also called tickseed, is an easy-care plant that gives your lawn that extra touch you’re looking for. When it comes to growing conditions, the plant isn’t picky; it spreads easily and grows up to 3 feet. It also resists dry, hot, and humid weather. The plant isn’t a typical perennial, but though it’s short-lived, it self-sows and produces beautiful blossoms year after year.
\n\n\n\nUsually, coreopsis species are non-toxic. But there aren’t many reports surrounding lance-leaved coreopsis, and it’s been reported as toxic to livestock. It’s always better to be cautious.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wild-Bergamot-Monarda-Fistulosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you like showy, fragrant flowers, you’re in for a treat. Wild bergamot is an atypical pink, purple, or white perennial in the bee balm family that smells like a mix of mint and oregano. Because it’s a wildflower, wild bergamot doesn’t take too much care for it to grow well in your yard. Moreover, it attracts various bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nWhile annual plants live for one season, perennial plants grow year after year. However, annuals are known for their vibrant colors, and some of them self-seed.
It’s best to plant perennials in fall or spring, but you can plant them at any time of the year before the ground freezes.
Delaware’s hardiness zone is 7, meaning that its lowest annual temperature is around 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Any plants you get should match this hardiness zone.
Now that we’ve gone through 10 perennials that thrive in Delaware, you have various options to choose from. Make sure to research each plant thoroughly before adding it to your garden and take the necessary precautions to avoid any potential hazards. With the right care and attention, these perennials can add beauty and color to your outdoor space for years to come.
\n\n\n\nBut choosing the right plant isn’t the last step to creating a beautiful yard. You also need to care for it. If you’d like some help with that, Wikilawn connects you to the best landscaping and lawn care pros in Delaware.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo By: Hippopx
\n","title":"10 Great Perennials for Your Delaware Landscape","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/1789c/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.jpg","srcSet":"/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/107df/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.jpg 320w,\n/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/293e9/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.jpg 500w,\n/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/f2cbb/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.jpg 800w,\n/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/1789c/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.jpg 960w,\n/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/c26c2/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/1dd6e/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/67b76/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.webp 320w,\n/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/8df11/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.webp 500w,\n/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/98a65/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.webp 800w,\n/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/1dd6e/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.webp 960w,\n/static/98d31b87ed0401e9285957b6ee7adadd/3cc96/Great-Perennials-for-Your-Delaware-Landscape.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Great Perennials for Your Delaware Landscape | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Perennials turn a hum-drum yard beautiful, and because they return year after year, you won’t invest countless hours planting flowers every spring."}}},{"node":{"id":"c4a93188-9617-5631-a91d-50a6a9fc8386","slug":"best-native-plants-jacksonville","path":"/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/best-native-plants-jacksonville/","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":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"075cc120-3dd3-51e4-aead-643f50a8453e","name":"Jacksonville","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"August 6th, 2019","excerpt":"The subtropical climate of Jacksonville surely calls for a beautiful tropical garden. But wait — don’t purchase imported landscape plants just yet. North Florida has many gorgeous native plants, some only found in this state. You may even find native alternatives to plants you’re considering, such as hibiscus and azaleas. Why native plants? Not only […]
\n","content":"\nThe subtropical climate of Jacksonville surely calls for a beautiful tropical garden. But wait — don’t purchase imported landscape plants just yet. North Florida has many gorgeous native plants, some only found in this state. You may even find native alternatives to plants you’re considering, such as hibiscus and azaleas.
\n\n\n\nWhy native plants? Not only will they be easier to care for, but the local wildlife will thank you for it. These plants are much more likely to survive Jacksonville weather, pests, and diseases. If you’re ready to make your garden part of the local ecosystem, consider the following 14 native plants.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Bean.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Everglades National Park / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nYou get a two-for-one deal with coral beans: beautiful flowers and seed pods. The plant grows red tubular flowers in spring, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. By fall, they’ll turn into pea pods with bright red seeds. They may look appetizing, but put away your fork and knife — they’re toxic if ingested.
\n\n\n\nCoral beans are visually appealing in spring and fall but don’t look exciting when not flowering or producing seeds. They’ll play an excellent supporting role in your garden landscape, so pair them with various plants for visual interest year-round.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial in Northern Florida
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or light shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Fertile, sandy, and well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The seeds are poisonous – keep away from pets and children
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pink-Pinxter-Azalea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: EoRdE6 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThough many azaleas come from Asia or are hybrids, some are native to Florida. Pink pinxter azalea is native to the Jacksonville area, though other Florida varieties may also thrive here. This plant’s fragrant white to dark pink flowers are stunning in spring and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nPink pinxter azaleas have decent pest and disease resistance, but watch out for mites, iron deficiency, and mushroom rot. They do best when shielded from harsh winds. This plant is relatively slow-growing and needs little pruning. If you decide to prune, wait until after flowering. Do not allow people or animals to ingest this plant, as it could be deadly.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6b-10a
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic if ingested; could be fatal
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Beautyberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, the American beautyberry’s fruit is the star of the show. Birds love eating them and have thus spread the seeds all over Florida. Humans can eat these berries in small amounts or make them into jellies and wines. The purple fruit appears around September, but you can enjoy its lavender-pink flowers in spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nThis drought-tolerant plant works well for borders. If you decide to prune it, do so before it flowers for the best results.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers rich soils but can also grow in poor, sandy soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic for humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLove wildflowers? The yellow, orange, and red colors of the Black-eyed Susan are a bright and cheery choice for gardeners in the Sunshine State. They flower in summer and fall. Use it for your butterfly garden, or pick some for a beautiful bouquet.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is easy to grow and tough. It can handle drought and salt, making it ideal for coastal homes in Jacksonville. While they’re great for creating borders or carpets of flowers, they could become a weed since their seeds spread and germinate readily.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Perennial
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Can grow in most soil types
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Not poisonous to humans, but can be a skin irritant or cause allergic reactions if consumed; could be poisonous to grazing animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Beach-Sunflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe beach sunflower blooms practically year-round. Like other sunflowers, the flower head will turn to face the sun as it moves through the sky. Butterflies like its flowers, and birds like its fruit. Though there are several varieties throughout Florida, you should use the local variety, cucumber dune sunflower, to avoid hybridization with the native plant population.
\n\n\n\nBeach sunflowers are well-suited to hot, dry, salty coastal climates. Don’t overwater this drought-resistant plant, or it may fall victim to sunflower rust. Though beach sunflowers may not survive a freeze, they will reseed and quickly spread again, making an excellent ground cover. Fertilize once or twice a year at most.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8b-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial, but will be annual if there are freezing temperatures
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy or well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oakleaf-Hydrangea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: normanack / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe oakleaf hydrangea is aptly named for its leaf shape. The broad, dark leaves grow up to 12 inches long, with the biggest growing in the shade. The leaves may turn red, bronze, or purple in the fall and may stay on the plant into the winter. Cone-shaped flower clusters bloom in the summer months, then turn light pink or purple. In winter, the unusual peeling bark adds visual interest even when the plant is bare.
\n\n\n\nBecause they prefer shade, oakleaf hydrangeas are perfect for yards with tree cover. They need little water or maintenance, but you should water them during dry spells and prune them periodically to your liking. Leave room for it to grow and send up new shoots, or get a dwarf or compact cultivar. Oakleaf hydrangeas aren’t kid or pet friendly since eating any part is toxic.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9a
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-10 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full shade, but partial is tolerable
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Does best in fertile, well-drained soil but can survive in other conditions
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All parts are toxic when ingested; keep away from children and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coontie.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Leonora (Ellie) Enking / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe coontie may look like a fern or palm tree, but it’s a cycad. Its glossy, feathery leaves are food for Atala butterfly larvae, a species once thought to be extinct in Florida. While the native people in this region historically created cooking flour from its stems, they are toxic unless properly prepared.
\n\n\n\nCoontie has a high drought tolerance and does well in the cold. Its mild salt tolerance helps it survive in coastal areas like Jacksonville. It does best in well-drained soil but will survive in full sun, partial shade, or full shade. Use coontie as a specimen plant or fill large areas with it for a wild look.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Cycad (shrub-sized)
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 10a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall, 3-5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, and full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-draining soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The stem is toxic to ingest unless properly prepared
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chickasaw-Plum.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Lm13700 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you plant a chickasaw plum tree, its tiny white flowers will entice you with their smell. They look particularly striking since they bloom before the leaves have returned after winter. Soon the flowers will turn into red fruits that turn yellow as they ripen. You can eat them yourself or watch wild animals enjoy the feast.
\n\n\n\nChickasaw plum trees grow quickly and resist most pests and diseases. Though they’re drought tolerant, they may need a drink during dry spells. One feature you may or may not like is the abundance of tree suckers, which are vertical stems growing near the base. They aren’t harmful to the tree and can benefit wildlife, but some people find them unappealing and messy. Prune them if you’d like.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Typically 6-12 feet, but can be up to 25 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun but can tolerate dappled shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates a wide variety of soil types but prefers acidic soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low once established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low poison severity from cyanide in leaves, stems, and seeds when ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Southern-Live-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nWant a break from the harsh sun? Once established, a large southern live oak will provide plenty of shade in your yard. When fully grown, they can have a height of up to 60 feet and a spread of 100 feet. They can live for hundreds of years. You may see Spanish moss growing on it, but not to worry — it won’t hurt the tree.
\n\n\n\nLive oaks are best for large yards, so they have ample space to grow. Plan other landscaping accordingly; you don’t want your tree stealing all the sunlight from plants that need it. Pair with shade-tolerant plants to make sure all your green friends are happy. To improve wind resistance, prune your live oak regularly when young.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 60 feet tall with a spread of 100 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen or evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity to humans if young leaves or raw acorns are ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sabal-Palm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nFlorida and palm trees go together like shrimp and grits. Want a local variety? Sabal palms earned the title of state tree in 1953. They’re also called cabbage palms or palmettos because the immature leaves taste like cabbage. The bud, or heart of palm, is also edible. Sabal palms produce tiny white flowers that pollinators love, then small black fruits that make a good snack for wild animals.
\n\n\n\nDespite the many edible parts of this plant, it’s not the best idea to handle the tree too much since the leaves may cause skin irritation. Sabal palms can handle salt spray but aren’t as tolerant of salt near their roots. Watch out for the fatal Lethal Bronzing Disease (LBD). While it’s incurable, preventative treatments could save your tree if others nearby are infected.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Palm
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-11b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-50 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy soil or well-drained loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Skin irritant
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tickseed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alabama Extension / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nThe name may not sound pretty, but don’t judge a book by its cover (or title, in this case). These daisy-like flowers cover fields, gardens, and roadsides throughout Florida in spring, summer, and sometimes fall. Coreopsis, or tickseed, is Florida’s state wildflower and a type of aster. Though most have yellow petals, some varieties come in other colors, such as the purple Georgia tickseed.
\n\n\n\nThere are several varieties of tickseeds in Florida. Coastal plain tickseed, Leavenworth’s tickseed, Texas tickseed, and Georgia tickseed are all found naturally in Duval County. Tickseed is typically drought tolerant, but it depends on the species. While short-lived, they can stick around for years since they reseed themselves. Taller flowers may need support to stay upright.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual to short-lived perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained soils that aren’t overly rich; tolerates acidic, slightly alkaline, sandy, loam, and clay soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate to low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hibiscus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Quartl / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhile some hibiscus varieties originate in Asia, several are right at home in the Florida landscape. The varieties found naturally in Duval County are comfort root, scarlet rosemallow, swamp rosemallow, and crimson-eyed rosemallow. Though their colorful flowers are short-lived, hibiscus plants produce many flowers throughout the flowering season. Hummingbirds and butterflies will flock to them for nectar.
\n\n\n\nHibiscuses come in shrub and tree forms suitable for hedges. These plants may be a good fit if your yard is too wet for other perennials since they prefer moist soil. Hibiscus are sensitive to the cold weather in North Florida, so they may lose their leaves and die away above ground. However, they can still return from the roots through shoots in spring. Watch out for aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub or tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4 to 20 feet, depending on the variety; annual freezes will make the plant generally shorter
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennials
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Any soil that is not too dry; tolerates extended flooding and sandy, loamy, clay, and acidic soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThey may not live under the sea like real coral, but their clusters of long flowers are just as pretty. Coral honeysuckle is also called trumpet honeysuckle because of the flower’s shape. Most coral honeysuckle flowers are red, but some cultivars have pink or yellow flowers. Butterflies and hummingbirds will enjoy the flowers, and songbirds will enjoy the fruit that follows.
\n\n\n\nThis vine is suitable for trellises, fences, hanging baskets, or erosion-preventing ground cover. Coral honeysuckle is low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and pest-resistant but won’t flower as nicely in the shade and may die back in freezing weather. Its fast growth can be aggressive, so carefully direct growth where you want. This local species is an excellent substitute for the invasive Japanese honeysuckle.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 15 feet, but it depends on the supporting structure
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Does best in slightly acidic soils but tolerates most soil types; doesn’t do well in dry sands
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: May upset stomach if consumed
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Carolina-Jessamine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Evans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWant a taste of spring flowers before your other plants bloom? Carolina jessamine flowers in late winter and early spring. The flowers are yellow, fragrant, and trumpet-shaped (thus the nickname “evening trumpet flower”). The “Pride of Augusta” cultivar has double flowers and a longer blooming season. Look but don’t touch — the sap contains a skin irritant, and the whole plant is toxic, sometimes even to honeybees.
\n\n\n\nCarolina jessamine looks great on trellises, fences, and pergolas. It also works as a groundcover in sloped yards. The vine grows quickly but is containable. Carolina jessamine has few disease and insect problems and tolerates frost and drought. It may drop leaves if too dry, but it will bounce back quickly. Don’t overfertilize, as it reduces flowering.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, rich, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The whole plant contains poisonous toxins, including nectar that may be toxic to honeybees. It also has skin-irritating sap.
\n\n\n\nJacksonville falls in the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 9A, with this zone determined by the average minimum winter temperature. While non-native plants may still thrive in these conditions, native plants do even better. Native plants have adapted to everything in the area, from weather to soil salinity.
\n\n\n\nThat said, each yard is slightly different. Get a soil test from your local cooperative extension or soil testing lab to learn about its texture (sand, silt, clay, or loam) and pH, nutrient, and salinity levels. You’ll also need to consider your current landscape. Are there shady trees? A nearby body of water? Ask your neighbors what plants have done well in their yards to understand what to expect.
\n\n\n\nYou could choose plants specifically to attract wildlife, practical plants to provide shade on your patio, or the lowest-maintenance plants possible. Once you know what you want out of your yard, you can narrow down your choices.
\n\n\n\nThe bad news for North Florida residents is that many plants that bloom year-round in Central and South Florida won’t bloom in Jacksonville. You could get lantana, a native of South Florida, for your yard. However, be sure not to choose a non-native version as this species is invasive in the area and toxic to livestock. If you need your floral fix in winter, consider houseplants instead.
The best native plants to adorn your fence are coral honeysuckle and Carolina jessamine. If you’d prefer a non-climbing plant to hide your fence with, hydrangea and hibiscus will add the desired visual interest.
North Florida tends to have very sandy soils. This soil texture is good for plants that need good drainage but won’t work well for plants that prefer clay. The native plants on this list either prefer or tolerate the sandy soils typical in Jacksonville.
Sometimes, the best way to decide which plants to buy is to see them in person. The employees at your local native plant nursery can help guide you through the plant selection process. Here are some local garden centers that carry native plants:
\n\n\n\nWant to buy online? You can purchase plant seeds from the Florida Wildflowers Growers Cooperative.
\n\n\n\nWhile you’re at it, consider planting a new lawn or implementing low-maintenance landscaping. If you’re worried about storms tearing apart all your hard work, focus on hurricane-resistant landscaping to keep your garden and house safe.
You may find your new gardening journey overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to contact local landscaping pros in Jacksonville to handle anything you’re uncomfortable with or don’t have time for.
Main Image Credit: Canna lirio / PublicDomainPictures
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\n","content":"\nAfter Virginia Beach’s cold and windy winters and constant rainfall, you want to enjoy your backyard barbeque or outside get-together when the weather is finally nice. Nothing can ruin your outdoor activities faster than an infestation of pesky bugs. This article explores seven of the worst backyard pests in Virginia Beach and how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mosquito-gbae23e6e4_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nWe’re all familiar with these annoying insects that sting and leave us itching. Mosquitoes are more than annoying, they can carry dangerous diseases like West Nile Virus and Zika virus. They can also cause skin irritation and allergies. These problems alone are enough to encourage efforts for mosquito control.
\n\n\n\nSome common symptoms that you’ve been stung by a mosquito include red, itchy bumps that may swell. As you may already know, they turn to sores if you scratch them. If you or visitors end up with bites after hanging outside your home, it’s an indication that you have mosquitoes.
\n\n\n\nMosquitoes breed in standing water. Any sources you have in your yard that can collect water, like birdbaths, flowerpots, or uncovered trash bins, could attract mosquitoes.
\n\n\n\nMosquitoes like to be outside during the lovely, warmer days of the year, just like humans. In Virginia Beach, mosquitoes are most active from late spring through early fall.
\n\n\n\nThere are some things you can do for mosquito control:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red_Ants_1214176165.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William Cho / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe Virginia area first experienced a fire ant infestation in 1989. Most of the fire ants came from infested plant products, or they traveled from infested areas that were close by.
\n\n\n\nFire ants are another nuisance that not only disrupt your peaceful get-togethers with their mere presence, but fire ants can sting, too. Unlike mosquitoes, whose stings leave you itchy, fire ant stings are usually painful. These reddish-brown pests are known for their large, visible mounds in the soil, which can reach up to 18 inches tall. They attack anything that disturbs their nests. Some people can have an allergic reaction to fire ant stings, which can be life-threatening.
\n\n\n\nFire ants build their mounds anywhere, but they gravitate towards sunny and open areas. Look out for small dirt hills or mountains. Like mosquitoes, they prefer moisture, so their homes are often found next to water sources and trees.
\n\n\n\nFire ants like to build multiple mounds in an area. Sometimes there are hundreds of mounds across an acre of land. If you see several mounds throughout your yard, you probably have fire ants. They also build mounds in the cracks of sidewalks, around shrubs, and in landscape beds.
\n\n\n\nIf you or visitors have redness and itchiness, you may have been stung by fire ants. Swelling at the stinging site can also occur. Unlike mosquito bites, fire ant stings usually turn into blisters a couple of days later, regardless of if you scratch.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things that can attract fire ants:
\n\n\n\nSince fire ants prefer warm, sunny weather, they are most active during the summer. When the weather is cooler in the fall and winter, fire ants are less of a pest problem.
\n\n\n\nOne thing you can do if you see a mound is to leave it alone and call a professional exterminator. According to Virginia Tech, eliminating fire ants takes training and equipment that most homeowners do not have. Treating these terrors with the wrong pest control method can lead to an increased infestation.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, mounds are not the only indicator of an infestation, which makes fire ants hard to kill. This is another reason to call a pest control company. They can give you a thorough inspection. But if you insist on doing it yourself, here are some things you can do:
\n\n\n\nThese two methods are considered to be the most effective when applied together:
\n\n\n\nYou can reduce your chances of getting fire ants by:
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Erturac / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIt’s hard to see fleas, but if you’ve ever been bitten by one, you know it doesn’t take seeing to be a believer. The most common flea in Virginia is the cat flea. Cat fleas do not discriminate, they bite dogs and humans, too. Fleas have flattened bodies and no wings.
\n\n\n\nSome tell-tale signs that you have fleas are itching or scratching. Flea bites can cause small red bumps. Since fleas are usually carried by pets, here are some signs you may notice on your pets.
\n\n\n\nFleas get into your yard by jumping onto mammals and wildlife that then carry the fleas to your property. Fleas love to breed in thatch. They also like to make a habitat out of piles of wood and leaves and hide in tall grass.
\n\n\n\nFleas love to make an appearance in the warmer months, during the spring and summer. But they can survive indoors during the colder winter months.
\n\n\n\nThe best treatment is prevention. Since fleas are often transported to homes by way of wildlife, reduce the chances you’ll attract wildlife by:
\n\n\n\nBecause fleas travel on pets, if you have pets:
\n\n\n\n![\"An](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6980305991_3209cd81a6_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sid Mosdell / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWe’re used to seeing a bee or wasp every now and then. But when you have a wasp’s nest or other signs of a wasp infestation, it’s time to do something about it. Wasps are typically more aggressive than bees, and wasps look different.
\n\n\n\nThere are several wasp species, and they differ in physical characteristics and where they build their nests. Wasps include hornets and yellow jackets, which have brown bodies and yellow stripes. Some wasps have a shiny look, like mud daubers, or dark wings, like red wasps. For those allergic to wasp stings, this pest problem could lead to death if the allergic person is stung.
\n\n\n\nIf you have several wasps flying around a specific area, you may have an infestation. Another obvious clue is seeing a wasp’s nest. Different species build their nests in different locations. You may find wasp nests in sheds, porch ceilings, garages, vegetation, doorways, trees, or barns.
\n\n\n\nWasps like loud clothing, good-smelling people, and potlucks. In other words, wasps are attracted to bright colors, strong smells, and food, especially sugary items. Open garbage cans may attract wasps, as can open compost bins.
\n\n\n\nWasps like to show up in the spring and fall.
\n\n\n\nRemoving a wasp’s nest can be dangerous. No one will blame you if you seek professional pest control services.
\n\n\n\nUsing professional services can give you the peace of mind of knowing the problem has been eradicated. Professionals can also inspect the outside and inside of your home and find things you cannot. If you have nests hiding underground, inside of walls, or in the attic, professionals can locate and exterminate the wasps.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things you can do on your own if the pest problem seems like it can be handled with a little DIY magic.
\n\n\n\nYou can be proactive and reduce your chances of attracting wasps by keeping garbage and food sealed. You can also keep vegetation around your home trimmed.
\n\n\n\n![\"alot](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/termites-g5c89ceef5_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nDid you know that every year homeowners fork out over two billion dollars to treat termites? Termites have caused significant damage to homes by chewing through wooden support beams, flooring, and other materials.
\n\n\n\nVirginia Beach is victim to many different species of termites, including the most common type, subterranean termites. These little insects resemble ants. They’re usually brown, black, or yellow. They live in colonies, but you usually won’t ever see them. You will, unfortunately, eventually see the damage they cause.
\n\n\n\nHollow-sounding wood or buckling floors or walls are some signs of termites. Mud tubes are also an indication. Termites travel through mud tubes or mud tunnels to access food and water. You may find mud tunnels in your home’s foundation and concrete walls. Another symptom of termites is seeing wings around entry points like doors and windows.
\n\n\n\nTermites are attracted to moisture. They are also attracted to situations where wood has come into contact with the soil, so they love wood that is decaying or damaged by water. Termites will invade wooden decks or porches in these conditions. These pests are also attracted to decks or porches that were built with poorly treated or untreated wood.
\n\n\n\nTermites also chew their way into homes when they perceive there is an availability of food.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, termites are active year-round. They are most active in the warmer spring and summer months.
\n\n\n\nA recurring theme of this article is prevention. Here are some things you can do to reduce your chances of a termite pest problem:
\n\n\n\nIn many cases, termiticides, which are what the pesticides for termites are called, can only be administered by a professional. Some EPA-approved treatments are termite baits, wood treatments, and termiticides applied to the soil. If you’ve purchased a pesticide, only use it if the label specifically says it can be used on termites. An active infestation is best handled by professionals.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eran Finkle / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhat purpose cockroaches have in the ecosystem is probably a mystery to many people. Regardless of any usefulness cockroaches may have, when you see one, you want to make sure you never see another one. They carry several diseases, like cholera and Typhoid fever.
\n\n\n\nIf you see one roach, move quickly to get rid of them. Seeing one means there are probably many more hiding.
\n\n\n\nTwo of the types of cockroaches that terrorize Virginia Beach residents are German cockroaches and American cockroaches. German cockroaches are small and light brown. They’re usually located in bathrooms, kitchens, and other indoor areas where food and water are accessible.
\n\n\n\nAmerican cockroaches are reddish-brown and larger than German cockroaches. American cockroaches enjoy the outdoors more and are typically located in yards and gardens and other outdoor areas. They actually have wings. When they get tired of being outside, they hide in dark, moist places. They invade bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces.
\n\n\n\nIf you see these critters in your backyard, you want to act quickly to get rid of them. You may already have them in your home. Seeing one roach in your yard or anywhere in your home is an indication that you probably have many more hiding somewhere. You may see cockroach droppings around compost bins, pet food dishes, or garbage cans. Droppings are dark and small and look like pepper.
\n\n\n\nYou may find cockroach egg cases, which are typically brown and cylindrical shaped, in dark places in your yard. The cases may be in crevices and cracks or under leaves.
\n\n\n\nCockroaches shed their skins as they grow. You may see their translucent shells under leaf piles or in crevices in the yard.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, cockroach season is nearly every month of the year. The season is between March and December. That’s 10 months!
\n\n\n\nRoaches are hard to get rid of since they’re so good at hiding. Insecticides contain harmful chemicals. Some treatments, like aerosol sprays, will kill the roaches sprayed but not get rid of the infestation. It is recommended that you call a professional exterminator for the best results.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things homeowners can do to minimize the pest problem:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/47748266872_a0ca5cccea_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nStink bugs are typically found in gardens. They’re not known to be dangerous to humans, but they can ruin your plants. They feed on a variety of plants, and they cause the most damage to fruit, tomatoes, okra, and pecans. They pierce the plant’s surface and suck out its fluids. They alter the plant’s appearance and can weaken the plant. In severe cases, stink bugs can cause the plant to die.
\n\n\n\nStink bugs get their name because they emit a foul smell when threatened. They’re very small insects and are usually brown-colored. They have a shield-shaped or oval-shaped body, six legs, and antennae.
\n\n\n\nIf you see that your plants are damaged, you could have stink bugs. Since the bugs emit a foul odor when threatened, you may smell a strong and unpleasant odor. You may see them on walls, plants, or other areas in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nThey like the warmth, so if you have warm places in your yard, like piles of debris, they may be attracted to them. They also may gravitate to plants they feed on, like pepper and tomatoes. Stink bugs are attracted to cracks and gaps in your home that give them a way into the warmth during the winter weather.
\n\n\n\nThis pest problem usually occurs in the spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nIt’s an interesting fact that parasitic wasps, like the samurai wasp, naturally attack stink bug eggs. If you have both stink bugs and wasps, maybe the wasps can kill the stink bug eggs before you exterminate the wasps.
\n\n\n\nThese are a few suggestions for controlling stink bugs:
\n\n\n\nIf the bugs have invaded your home:
\n\n\n\n
The most commonly found stinging insects in Virginia Beach are:
Overseeding your lawn is a way to repair it. When you overseed you add new grass to your lawn. This stronger grass covers bare spots created by pests. Overseeding has other benefits, including:
Prevention is always best. However, even the most diligent efforts do not guarantee that you will not incur some unwanted critters and insects. Here are some things you can do to be proactive:
As long as there is an outdoors, there will be insects and critters. Our job is to do what we can to make sure these pests stay in their lane to protect ourselves and our loved ones and ensure these pests do not interrupt our quality of life.
\n\n\n\nWhile there may not be anything that is 100 percent guaranteed to avoid some of these pests, you can at least reduce your chances of an infestation. Now that you know what to look for, you can take measures to proactively guard against these pest problems.
\n\n\n\nA well-maintained lawn can deter pest invasion. For help maintaining your lawn so that you can spend more time strolling along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and less time worrying about pests, call a professional lawn care service.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Stink Bug / Pxfuel
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\n","content":"\nYou love having a thick, green lawn, but you dread your summer water bills. And the minute water restrictions begin during a drought, it can all feel like money down the drain. What if you could turn off the tap and rest easy knowing that your grass won’t wither and brown under a little dry spell? With drought-tolerant grasses, you can!
Certain species of lawn grass have the hardiness to hold up to the rigors of high traffic and low water usage. If you’d like to use less water year-round, consider replacing your lawn with one of the low-maintenance, drought-resistant grass species. Note that all grasses are more drought-tolerant if you care for them with regular mowing and fertilization. Read on to learn more about the variety that is right for you.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are exactly what they sound like: species well suited to the scorching-hot summers of the south. These grasses hit their growth peak in mid-summer and can retain their green color with less water than their non-drought-tolerant counterparts.
\n\n\n\nFine-textured and sun-loving, Bermudagrass doesn’t mind heavy traffic and is quick to recover from damage. It grows at an aggressive pace and needs more mowing than some varieties, but doesn’t do well in deep or partial shade.
\n\n\n\nA bright, apple-green grass, centipedegrass is slow-growing, requiring less mowing than fast-growing varieties. It loves full sun but will perform well in shady areas. Centipede grass doesn’t mind sandy, acidic soil, which means it’s ideal for the coastal Southeastern states. One drawback to this low-maintenance grass: It doesn’t hold up well to high traffic.
\n\n\n\nDeeply-rooted and very shade-tolerant, St. Augustine grass forms a dense, carpet-like mat that crowds out weeds. Floratam is the most drought-tolerant variety of this hardy warm-season grass. But, cold winters will turn a St. Augustine lawn brown during dormancy, in which case you may want to overseed with a winter variety.
\n\n\n\nThough it is slow-growing, once established, Zoysiagrass offers a dense, carpetlike grass cover. It handles high traffic well and will grow in full sun or shade. The most drought-tolerant cultivars include El Toro, Jamur, and Palisades.
\n\n\n\nCool-season drought-tolerant grasses have different water requirements and are not all suited for foot traffic. Take care when choosing the right variety for your yard, especially if you have kids or pets.
\n\n\n\nNative to plains states from Texas to North Dakota, buffalograss can handle winter lows and summer highs. It does particularly well with heavy clay soils and low rainfall but isn’t well-equipped to handle high traffic. This slow-grower requires less mowing than other varieties but also takes longer to establish than other grass types. It does best mowed high (to 5 inches), making it a poor choice for heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nNorthern states are the ideal location for this aggressive, emerald-green lawn grass. While severe droughts may bring on dormancy, Kentucky bluegrass recovers quickly once watering resumes. This grass type can be a bit slow to green up come spring, but overseeding with a little ryegrass can help speed up the process.
\n\n\n\nThis coarse-textured turfgrass can handle heavy foot traffic and with consistent mowing, provides a dense carpet of grass. Tall fescue needs less than an inch of water per week, and the dwarf varieties are the most drought-tolerant of them all.
\n\n\n\nWhile drought-resistant turf grasses are cultivated for their ability to survive periods of low rainfall, how you manage your turf will contribute to its drought tolerance. Deep and infrequent watering will help to encourage deep root growth, which increases resistance to drought. Likewise, mowing at the recommended height will also increase the chances of survival.
\n\n\n\nJim Baird, UC Agriculture and Natural Resources turf expert, recommends checking your irrigation system to ensure it’s watering evenly. ” We suggest homeowners test their sprinklers by placing cans around the lawn and running sprinklers to see if the water is being applied uniformly.” He suggests mowing at the tallest recommended height to encourage healthy, deep root development.
\n\n\n\nIt’s important to continue caring for your grass during a water-scarce period. Don’t assume drought-tolerant means your lawn doesn’t need any irrigation. During a drought, Baird reminds us, “The grass may not be as lush and green as usual,” noting, “but you can still have a lawn where kids and pets can play.” He cautions against letting a lawn die back too much during a drought because only weeds may come back in its place.
\n\n\n\nIf your drought-tolerant grass suffers in shady areas, you may want to consider some lawn alternatives beneath trees such as ground cover plants. You can also take measures to encourage grass growth in the shade.
\n\n\n\nYou can have a drought-tolerant lawn, no matter where you live. With a little effort and care, your water-wise lawn can save you time and money and look great (almost) year-round.