![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp.jpg\")
We Texans like to say, “If you don’t like the weather, stick around a minute” because it changes so rapidly. These wild fluctuations – cold to hot, rainy to scorching, windy to still – and the varied climates of this massive state, can wreak havoc on grass and plants. So before you invest in expensive […]
\n","content":"\nWe Texans like to say, “If you don’t like the weather, stick around a minute” because it changes so rapidly. These wild fluctuations – cold to hot, rainy to scorching, windy to still – and the varied climates of this massive state, can wreak havoc on grass and plants. So before you invest in expensive landscaping, it’s critical to know which grasses grow best in Texas.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nTexas is so big that its climate varies from place to place. For example, West Texas and North Texas are drier and cooler than South Texas and the coastal areas. As you might expect, then, certain grass types grow better in some regions than others. For instance, buffalograss grows best in areas that get 25 inches of rainfall or less (annually), while centipedegrass loves East Texas’ intense humidity.
\n\n\n\nThat doesn’t mean you can’t grow buffalograss in coastal Texas and centipedegrass in West Texas, but you will probably have to work harder at it. So keep those differences in mind as we make our way through the strengths and weaknesses of each type of grass.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you plan on using your lawn for recreation and entertaining, give some thought to Zoysiagrass because it tolerates foot traffic well. Be aware, though, that if it gets damaged, it can take a while to recover because it grows slowly.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass tolerates drought extremely well, and it bounces back rapidly from drought with some irrigation or rainfall.
\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
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow about once a week
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bubble-on-St.-Augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKnown as “carpet grass” for the carpet-like feeling beneath your feet, St. Augustinegrass is most commonly seen in Southeast Texas (although it’s grown in most of the state). It’s the most shade-tolerant of the warm-season grasses, but while it handles drought well, it isn’t as drought-tolerant as Bermudagrass or Zoysiagrass.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass doesn’t like heavy foot traffic so don’t let the kids or pets run wild in the yard.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBermudagrass’ strongest traits are its high traffic tolerance and quick recovery. This makes it popular for golf courses, lawns, and athletic fields. It’s also quite drought-tolerant and loves full sunlight.
\n\n\n\nThere are many seeded varieties of Bermudagrass, some of which have finer textures and create a denser turf than standard Bermudagrass. Bermudagrass also comes in hybrid varieties (a mix of common and African varieties), which are more aggressive than regular Bermudagrass varieties.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Both stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Centipedegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar JamesBecwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is best adapted to East Texas’ acidic soils. It’s best known for its low-maintenance requirements: It doesn’t need a lot of irrigation, fertilization, or mowing. It grows well in moderate shade but thrives in full sunlight, but it doesn’t like heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is used primarily for parks, golf courses, lawns, and other turf areas, but not athletic fields.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolon
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\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\nLocated in Central and West Texas, buffalograss likes heavy clay soils in areas with little rainfall. (In other areas, it has to contend with weeds and other invasive grasses). It thrives in full sun but doesn’t like heavy shade or foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss works well in many areas, such as school grounds, golf courses, parks, and roadsides.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizome
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Very Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2 – 3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss, centipedegrass, and Zoysiagrass are your best choices for a lawn that doesn’t require much maintenance.
St. Augustinegrass is the way to go if your lawn gets a lot of shade.
Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass are the preferred choices if you plan on having people in the yard frequently.
There isn’t a single type of grass that fits every Texas lawn. Choosing the right grass depends on where you live.
\n\n\n\nOnce you get your grass picked out, complement it with low-maintenance landscaping that makes your yard come alive but without a bunch of effort and money.
\n\n\n\nWhere do you start? Contact one of Wikilawn’s lawn care professionals, and they’ll give you all the help you need.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Texas Discovery Gardens / Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"Best Grasses for a Great Texas Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/1789c/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg","srcSet":"/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/107df/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 320w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/293e9/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 500w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/f2cbb/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 800w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/1789c/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 960w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/c26c2/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/1dd6e/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/67b76/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 320w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/8df11/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 500w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/98a65/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 800w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/1dd6e/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 960w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/3cc96/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Grass For a Great Texas Lawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Texas is such a big state that some grasses thrive in areas that others don’t. Learn more about the best grasses for your Texas lawn."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"3fd329d4-09a2-537a-9b0e-e3e0f10a832a","slug":"a-monthly-lawn-care-guide-for-kansas-city-mo-residents","path":"/lawn-care/mo/kansas-city/a-monthly-lawn-care-guide-for-kansas-city-mo-residents/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"05d0f445-881a-5277-b62a-ce38f7c7af9f","name":"Kansas City","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/mo/kansas-city/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"08e64923-2067-5321-ba20-42c35858c2cd","name":"Missouri","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/mo/"}],"date":"July 6th, 2018","excerpt":"If you have a green thumb or are just one for enjoying time spent caring for your yard, you will want to take a look at this month-by-month checklist for Kansas City, MO residents. It can be challenging when gardening and caring for your lawn during the sweltering heat of the summer months since Kansas […]
\n","content":"If you have a green thumb or are just one for enjoying time spent caring for your yard, you will want to take a look at this month-by-month checklist for Kansas City, MO residents. It can be challenging when gardening and caring for your lawn during the sweltering heat of the summer months since Kansas City is not exempt from the powerful rays of the sun. Hopefully, this garden and lawn care calendar can make it easier on you this summer.
\nThe month of May is an important one when it comes to gardening and landscaping in the Kansas City area. You should begin the month by applying fertilizer to the lawn. This only needs to be done if you water regularly throughout the summer. If you let the lawn die during the summer you don’t have to put down any fertilizer.
\nThere are quite a few weeds that sprout during the summer. That’s why you need to apply a broadleaf herbicide for your lawn. Make sure there’s no rain in the forecast for the next 24 hours as water will remove the herbicide. This means you must refrain from watering the lawn for that timeframe as well.
\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watering-the-lawn-missouri-1024x682.jpg\")
Photo: lawndoctor.com
\nJune is when the temperatures really begin to climb in Kansas City, which means you will need to start watering. You can get away with an infrequent schedule at this point in the summer. Just make sure you don’t overwater the lawn or you will begin to see fungal growth.
\nIf the grass is thin you will want to increase your mowing height to one inch. The more rapid your lawn grows, the more often you need to cut it. Don’t let it grow too tall or you can risk the development of webworm. Consider mowing at heights of 2.5 to 3 inches in order to avoid scalping the turf.
\nYou need to keep up with mowing the lawn regularly into July. Just try to avoid stressful times of the day, especially when in the middle of a heat wave. You also don’t want to mow too often when in a drought.
\nIf weather conditions continue to be hot and humid you need to adjust how much water you give the lawn and when you give it. Water between the morning hours of 6-10 to avoid the occurrence of disease.
\nYou also need to only provide about one inch of water per week. Divide this into watering two to three time per week instead of daily.
\nIf you come across brown areas of grass you need to search for grubs. If you have anywhere from five to 10 grubs in a small space you can use an insecticide specifically for grubs towards the end of July.
\nAugust is the month in which you need to begin preparing your lawn for the fall season. Even though it will still be oppressively hot and humid this is an important prep period.
\nContinue your mowing, weeding, and insect control into August. If you are considering the complete renovation of your lawn you need to kill the vegetation present using a glyphosate spray in the middle of August.
\nShould you not be too sure about the fertility level of the lawn you can have it tested. If the lawn has been dormant for the summer you can begin watering it during the final week of August so that growth in the fall can begin.
\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/dethatching-1024x768.jpg\")
Photo: lawncaresg.com
\nSeptember is the best time of year when it comes to fertilizing your lawn. Apply only 1 to 1.5 pounds of fertilizer per 1,000 square feet of lawn.
\nIf you are putting new sod down now is the time and you should do it as early in September as possible all while keeping the soil moist. It’s not required that you aerate the new sod but it can be done if needed.
\nTowards the end of the month, you can begin raking, dethatching, and killing any weed patches you find on the new sod.
\nThe end of the month is the best time for you to apply broadleaf herbicides to the lawn.
\nAs you can see, caring for your lawn and garden takes a lot of time and effort. For the best results, follow this monthly calendar in Kansas City, MO each year.
\nStill have questions about lawn care? Visit our lawn care page to read more articles like this one.
\nTop photo: trulia.com
\n","title":"A Monthly Lawn Care Guide for Kansas City, Mo Residents","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4803392444101773,"src":"/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/1789c/kansas-city-house.jpg","srcSet":"/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/107df/kansas-city-house.jpg 320w,\n/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/293e9/kansas-city-house.jpg 500w,\n/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/f2cbb/kansas-city-house.jpg 800w,\n/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/1789c/kansas-city-house.jpg 960w,\n/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/4fb49/kansas-city-house.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/1dd6e/kansas-city-house.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/67b76/kansas-city-house.webp 320w,\n/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/8df11/kansas-city-house.webp 500w,\n/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/98a65/kansas-city-house.webp 800w,\n/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/1dd6e/kansas-city-house.webp 960w,\n/static/93fcc15794bd97ffc41421981893e8f6/62477/kansas-city-house.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"A Monthly Lawn Care Guide for Kansas City, Mo Residents | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"4117cfd1-d2b9-5ebc-934a-8c3d719d4601","slug":"native-trees-washington","path":"/lawn-care/wa/native-trees-washington/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"7987b7f7-662d-55d4-9011-4af5647aa2dd","name":"Washington","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wa/"}],"date":"May 29th, 2023","excerpt":"Within the picturesque landscapes of Washington State, a realm of natural treasures awaits. Here, native trees proudly stand as guardians of the land, their roots firmly grounded in this diverse region. These majestic trees native to Washington State offer many advantages, providing a food source for wildlife and a source of inspiration for the vibrant […]
\n","content":"\nWithin the picturesque landscapes of Washington State, a realm of natural treasures awaits. Here, native trees proudly stand as guardians of the land, their roots firmly grounded in this diverse region. These majestic trees native to Washington State offer many advantages, providing a food source for wildlife and a source of inspiration for the vibrant culture that thrives throughout the state.
\n\n\n\nFrom the towering forests of Olympic National Park to the urban arboreal havens of Seattle and Tacoma, Washington’s native trees add a distinct flavor to each cityscape, infusing the air with a crisp freshness that invigorates both body and spirit.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover the following:
\n\n\n\n![\"Douglas](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Douglas-Fir.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn the magnificent forests of Washington, the douglas fir reigns supreme as a true giant among trees. Standing tall and proud, it boasts an impressive stature, earning its reputation as one of the largest trees on our planet. This majestic conifer is one of the most important timber species in the United States.
\n\n\n\nAs a young evergreen tree, douglas fir has a narrow and spired pyramidal shape. Its lower branches gracefully droop while the upper ones ascend with determination. When mature, it undergoes a stunning metamorphosis. The once conical form gives way to a cylindrical silhouette, shedding its lower branches until only the top third of the tree remains adorned with verdant foliage.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, clay, loam. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: A delightfully sweet scent fills the air when the Douglas fir needles are gently crushed.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: All year.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 40 to 80 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Keep it well watered since it is intolerant to drought. It is easy to transplant when it is small.
\n\n\n\n![\"Western](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Western-Red-Cedar.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Robert Linsdell from St. Andrews, Canada / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDeep within the lush forests of Washington, the western red cedar stands as a living testament to the passage of time. With a lifespan that stretches across centuries, some of its elder brethren boast an astounding age exceeding a millennium, proudly bearing the weight of history upon their sturdy branches.
\n\n\n\nThe Western Red Cedar showcases a silhouette that ranges from narrow to broad, resembling a pyramidal shape. This resilient giant may develop a buttressed base. Trees in compact spaces find an elegance in their narrower shape, while those gifted with abundant room embrace a broader form.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: When crushed it emits a distinctive, sweet pineapple or pear drop-like smell.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 50 to 70 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate. It does not tolerate drought.
\n\n\n\n![\"Sitka](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Sitka-Spruce.jpg\")
Photo Credit: born1945 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn the beautiful woodlands of Washington, the Sitka spruce stands tall. This noble native tree is a sight to behold, with an open crown that reaches towards the sky, adorned with branches that sway and dance. Its vibrant foliage showcases stiff, four-sided needles in a mesmerizing blue-green hue.
\n\n\n\nThe Sitka spruce’s ever-transforming bark changes from smooth and silvery gray in its youth to purplish-brown hues when mature.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sitka spruce essential oil’s piney, earthy, woodsy scent can offer relief and relaxation during the cold season.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: All year
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 50 to 250 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Ponderosa-Pine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe mighty ponderosa pine is a true icon of the Western United States. This magnificent pine stands tall and proud and is known for its dominance and value as a timber resource. Its dark yellowish-green needles, arranged in bundles of three, create a lush and vibrant canopy that captivates the eye.
\n\n\n\nAs we venture closer, we can admire the tree’s fascinating transformation. Young trees boast a striking dark brown to black bark. Yet, as the ponderosa pine matures, its bark evolves into a warm orangish-brown hue adorned with intricate furrows and large scaly plates. Truly a spectacle to behold, this tree embodies strength and resilience.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: The bark, stems, and needles emit a resinous or turpentine scent when broken or crushed.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 60 to 125 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Induces abortion in cattle.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. No tolerance for shade. Established trees tolerate some dry soil conditions.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Alder.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Chris Light / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree exudes grace and elegance in the forests of Washington. Standing tall with a straight trunk and crowned with pointed or rounded branches, the red alder is a sight to behold. Its bark, adorned in a mottled pattern of light gray to whitish hues, is remarkably smooth to the touch.
\n\n\n\nBut what truly sets this tree apart is its ability to nurture its surroundings. Beneath the surface, they develop intriguing swellings or root nodules housing nitrogen-fixing bacteria, nature’s very own soil enrichers. These bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into valuable chemicals that act as natural fertilizers, nourishing the surrounding plants.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial sun, shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, chalk, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist, but well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous Perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: The bark has a strong aromatic smell similar to cottonwood.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Wet.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 66 to 98 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. The growth rate of this tree is quite rapid, and it spreads through the dispersal of its seeds. It favors the combination of cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers for optimal growth and development.
\n\n\n\n![\"Paper](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Paper-Birch.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Plant Image Library / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis tree tells a story with its ever-evolving shape and captivating features. When young, the paper birch takes on a loosely pyramidal form. As it matures, its silhouette transforms into a charming irregular oval to a rounded shape, often retaining low branches.
\n\n\n\nThe paper birch can be trained to grow with multiple trunks, creating a picturesque display. But what steals the show is its exquisite bark. Cloaked in a pristine white coat, it exfoliates gracefully, unveiling strips of papery wonder that reveal a beautiful orange-brown inner bark. Over time, as the tree matures, black markings emerge, painting a stunning contrast on its snowy canvas.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2 to 7
\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: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance:It has a sweet woody sappy green fragrance.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 50 to 70 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate.It is better to prune during its dormant season. It is important to avoid pruning during winter or spring when the sap is actively flowing, as it may result in bleeding.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pacific](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pacific-Madrone.jpg\")
Photo Credit: brewbooks / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Pacific madrone is a tree that dazzles the senses with its splendid display of springtime elegance. As the season blooms, this tree adorns itself with white bell-shaped flowers, creating a breathtaking spectacle. But the magic doesn’t end there, for these blossoms give way to round fruits that mature into a striking shade of red, adding a vibrant burst of color to the forest landscape.
\n\n\n\nThe bark sheds its old skin to reveal its true beauty. From its stunning flowers to its fiery fruits and the captivating spectacle of its peeling bark, the Pacific madrone invites us to celebrate the ever-changing nature and find joy in the vibrant tapestry of life.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to part shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: It exudes a strong honey smell that attracts bees and fruit-eating birds like waxwings and robins.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 20 to 80 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. They are difficult to transplant and can be slow to establish.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pacific](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pacific-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Paul Schultz from Kenmore, USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Pacific dogwood tree presents itself with a dense, conical, or rounded crown. Its branches, arranged in a graceful, horizontal-tiered fashion, create a picturesque display that evokes a sense of serenity and harmony. The Pacific dogwood has delicate, white flowers.
\n\n\n\nAs the seasons shift, the Pacific dogwood continues to delight. It adorns itself with orange to red fruits, adding a touch of autumnal splendor to the landscape. And when the foliage begins its transition, the tree’s leaves transform into a captivating shade of yellow-orange, painting the surroundings with a vibrant burst of color.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: It has a strong but pleasant floral scent similar to sweet honeysuckle.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 40 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate. Established plants have some drought tolerance.
\n\n\n\nIn the vast landscapes of Washington, the western red cedars claim the title of the state’s towering giants. These majestic evergreen conifers dominate the coastal regions, reaching impressive heights of 100 to 200 feet and boasting 9 feet or more diameters.
Here’s a list of other native tree species in Washington:
• Vine Maple (Acer circinatum)
• Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla)
• Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia)
When embarking on a backyard landscaping project in Washington, tapping into the expertise of local nurseries becomes crucial. Opting for native trees and plants from these nurseries ensures they are well-suited to the region’s climate and soil conditions, enhancing their resilience and long-term maintenance.
\n\n\n\nRemember that Washington State predominantly falls under USDA hardiness zones 7 and 8, with average minimum temperatures ranging from 5 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, selecting suitable plants or trees is the first step in creating a thriving landscape. Ongoing care and maintenance are vital for its sustained health and vitality.
\n\n\n\nTo ensure the best results for your yard, consider hiring a lawn care pro near you to handle the mowing, trimming, and edging. We can connect you with trusted pros in Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, and many other cities throughout the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Washington State Capitol Building / Pastajosh / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"8 Trees Native to Washington State","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/1789c/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/107df/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 320w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/293e9/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 500w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/f2cbb/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 800w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/1789c/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 960w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/c26c2/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/1dd6e/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/67b76/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 320w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/8df11/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 500w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/98a65/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 800w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/1dd6e/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 960w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/3cc96/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Trees Native to Washington State","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the 8 trees native to Washington State, boosting aesthetics and supporting local ecosystem preservation."}}},{"node":{"id":"08d55eaf-d54d-5c80-93ef-571572b0bf60","slug":"best-grass-east-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/best-grass-east-texas/","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":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 2nd, 2023","excerpt":"Houston, we have a problem … a lawn problem. East Texas is humid, rainy, and blazing hot, with frequent hurricanes. Such volatile weather conditions make lawn care difficult but certainly not impossible. Warm-season grasses grow best in hot summer areas, letting them thrive in East Texas’ intense heat. Below are the best grasses for East […]
\n","content":"\nHouston, we have a problem … a lawn problem. East Texas is humid, rainy, and blazing hot, with frequent hurricanes. Such volatile weather conditions make lawn care difficult but certainly not impossible.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow best in hot summer areas, letting them thrive in East Texas’ intense heat. Below are the best grasses for East Texas and its sometimes-intense climate.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\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\n\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is drought-tolerant, moderately shade-tolerant, and cold-tolerant, making it a popular choice for lawns in East Texas. It also handles foot traffic well, so it does well on lawns.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass comes in at least 11 varieties, all used as turfgrass. Some varieties perform better at higher mowing heights, while others have improved shade tolerance. The type of Zoysiagrass you choose depends on your environment and how much work you plan to do.
\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
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow about once a week
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompared to other warm-season grasses, St. Augustinegrass tolerates shade well. It’s drought tolerant as well (although not as much as Zoysiagrass) and can handle being cut at higher heights.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Handles tall mowing heights
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar JamesBecwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want a low-maintenance lawn, consider centipedegrass. Centipedegrass performs best in East Texas’ acidic soils and requires little mowing, fertilization, and irrigation. However, it needs irrigation to combat drought (which it can be sensitive to). It also doesn’t like heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow every 7 to 10 days
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is versatile because it tolerates drought and foot traffic exceptionally well. For this reason, it’s perfectly suited for golf courses, athletic fields, and lawns and comes in many varieties.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass isn’t low-maintenance, as it requires frequent mowing and occasional fertilization. It also doesn’t like shady areas, so avoid it if you have a shady backyard.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Both stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nIf you have a shady lawn, St. Augustinegrass is your best bet. Zoysiagrass and centipedegrass are also shade-tolerant, but avoid bermudagrass, which doesn’t like shade.
The most drought-tolerant grasses are St. Augustinegrass and Bermudagrass.
Zoysiagrass only requires mowing once a week, making it the most low-maintenance, but centipedegrass is worth looking into if you don’t mind mowing a little more often (7 to 10 days).
If you plan on having many people and animals on your lawn often, bermudagrass and zoysiagrass are the way to go.
Picking the right grass for your East Texas lawn boils down to your living space and how much work you want to put into your lawn. There isn’t a “one size fits all” type of grass.
\n\n\n\nOnce you’re ready with your chosen grass, contact Wikilawn’s lawn care pros, and we’ll give you a green, lush lawn. You won’t need to lift a finger.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Alamo / Nan Palmero / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"The Best Grass for Your East Texas Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/1789c/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/107df/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 320w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/293e9/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 500w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/f2cbb/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 800w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/1789c/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 960w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/c26c2/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/1dd6e/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/67b76/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 320w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/8df11/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 500w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/98a65/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 800w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/1dd6e/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 960w,\n/static/b69d46043650923cd64c68d6673fd918/3cc96/The-Alamo-in-Downtown-San-Antonio.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Best Grass for Your East Texas Lawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"East Texas has unpredictable weather and intense heat, but these grasses don’t mind the weather and will thrive in East Texas."}}},{"node":{"id":"3a9717ee-8c2d-52c1-a810-f09cb2aa432c","slug":"best-grass-seeds-vermont","path":"/lawn-care/vermont/best-grass-seeds-vermont/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"6ca58aed-0605-5274-8b33-210f8c631ce7","name":"Vermont","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/vermont/"}],"date":"May 22nd, 2023","excerpt":"The lawns at Shelburne Farms and Hubbard Park are lush and healthy. They are part of what makes the sites so alluring. You can have a home lawn with just as much beauty and appeal when you grow the right grass type. Keep reading to learn about the best grass seeds for Vermont. It doesn’t […]
\n","content":"\nThe lawns at Shelburne Farms and Hubbard Park are lush and healthy. They are part of what makes the sites so alluring. You can have a home lawn with just as much beauty and appeal when you grow the right grass type. Keep reading to learn about the best grass seeds for Vermont.
\n\n\n\nIt doesn’t matter if you’re in the Green Mountains area where the climate is colder and precipitation is high, the drier and hotter Champlain Valley region, or the Connecticut River Valley section of Vermont where it’s the driest. This article will help you choose the best grass seed to build your ideal lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nWhether you are overseeding or establishing a new lawn, there are two choices for grass seeds: warm-season grasses and cool-season grasses. Because Vermont has warm, mild summers and long, cold winters, cool-season grasses are the best type of grasses for The Green Mountain State.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in hot, humid climates with mild winters. They grow best in the summer. This grass type goes dormant and turns brown during the cold winter months, from late autumn through early spring. This grass type is commonly found in the southern part of the United States.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses perform well in areas where temperatures are cool throughout most of the year. Like warm-season grasses, cool-season grasses go dormant in freezing temperatures. However, cool-season grasses go dormant later in the winter than warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses also go brown and dormant in the summer as temperatures rise. They grow best in the spring and fall when the climate is cool. This grass type prefers air temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool-season grass is commonly found in the northern regions of the United States.
\n\n\n\nGrass seeds selected for Vermont homes should be durable enough to withstand the state’s cold winters and warm summers. In addition to the snowy winters and the warm summers, Vermont’s weather conditions include floods, ice storms, and heat waves. While no grass can withstand all or even some of these environmental stressors, some grass types are better suited than others for the general Vermont climate. Let’s take a look at the three best cool-season grasses for Vermont.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky Bluegrass has a medium texture and a dark, blue-green color that lives up to the grass’s name. It’s not the softest or the most coarse grass.
\n\n\n\nThis grass is best for properties that get full sun and have well-drained soil. If your property contains a lot of trees blocking the sunlight, your yard is not the best environment for Kentucky Bluegrass to thrive. It has low shade tolerance.
\n\n\n\nKentucky has more maintenance requirements than the other grasses on this list. It needs more fertilization and is more vulnerable to insects and diseases. Bluegrass also requires frequent mowing. This grass is better suited for homeowners with more time for lawn upkeep. However, it has its advantages.
\n\n\n\nIf you have moderate physical activity on your lawn, bluegrass will hold up well. It recovers from foot damage quickly and has a moderate level of foot-traffic tolerance. Kentucky has a high cold tolerance, making it ideal for Vermont’s cold winters.
\n\n\n\nMixing or blending bluegrass with other grasses that thrive best in Vermont will produce the healthiest lawn. Combining different grass species or varieties within grass species makes your lawn stronger and more adaptable to environmental conditions, resulting in a turfgrass canvas that better withstands pests and stress.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It needs more than 6 hours of full sun daily for optimal performance.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine fescue has a dark to medium green color. It comes with lower maintenance needs than Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. If you don’t have much time for lawn chores or you prefer a low-maintenance turfgrass, fine fescue is the best option.
\n\n\n\nBecause fine fescue does not spread by rhizomes like Kentucky does, but instead has a bunch-type growth pattern, fine fescue is not the best grass to fill in bare spots or dead spots. Kentucky or perennial is better suited if you have damaged spots.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue’s growth pattern also makes it less traffic-tolerant than Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. The fine fescue variety creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes. However, the rhizomes are short, so creeping red fescue is treated like bunch-type grasses.
\n\n\n\nDespite its shortcomings, fine fescue does have its share of advantages. Since it grows slowly, it requires less mowing. It has lower fertilization needs than the other two grass types on this list, and it also adapts better to conditions that are less than optimal. For example, fine fescues tolerate multiple soil types and lower fertility.
\n\n\n\nThis grass type is the most shade-tolerant of the cool-season grasses. It grows well in partial or full sun. So, whether your property has a lot of trees blocking the sun or your yard receives a lot of sunlight, fine fescue will adapt. It is important to keep in mind that although fine fescue tolerates a variety of soil types, it does not tolerate wet soil or poorly drained soil.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a low-maintenance turfgrass, fine fescue is a good choice. On the other hand, if you have a lawn full of children playing after school and on the weekends, the low to moderate traffic tolerance of this type of grass rules it out as the best selection.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Sheep fescue, hard fescue, creeping red fescue, slender creeping red fescue, and chewings fescue are the most commonly used varieties.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a bunch-type grass. Like fine fescue, it does not recover well from high traffic. But unlike fine fescue, it has high foot-traffic tolerance. Perennial is a better grass for frequent lawn parties, although it will not recover from the damage as quickly as Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nPerennial’s bunch-type growth pattern also makes it more susceptible to weeds. If you’re interested in using this grass type to remedy dead spots, you may find it interesting that the University of Vermont Extension Master Gardener reports that weeds tend to fill in bare spots before ryegrass can re-establish.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a grass seed that establishes quickly, perennial is the optimal selection. It germinates in two to four days and produces a lawn in about 14 days. Most grass seeds do not germinate as quickly.
\n\n\n\nPerennial will not grow well in shady areas, so if your property does not get a lot of sun, stick to fine fescue varieties. Although it requires well-drained soil, very dry conditions will hinder its performance.
\n\n\n\nPerennial has a dark green color and fine texture. Its soft feel makes it great for toddlers that like to crawl on the grass or anyone who enjoys grounding themselves by walking barefoot.
\n\n\n\nPerennial is usually not planted alone, but in a mixture with Kentucky or fine fescues. Some reasons perennial ryegrass is best planted with other grass seeds are because of its vulnerability to pests and its lack of hardiness. It does not withstand stresses like heat, cold, salt, and drought.
\n\n\n\nPerennial grows aggressively and may suppress the growth of other grasses. Consequently, do not use more than 15 to 20% of it in grass seed mixtures.
\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\nOther notes: It is recommended that Italian and Annual varieties be avoided. As seedlings, they can grow aggressively. Also, the cold winter weather causes them to die.
\n\n\n\nThe best time of year to plant grass seed in Vermont is during Labor Day. This gives the grass time to establish before winter. Do not plant later than the first week of September, as the grass needs about six to eight weeks to become well-established in cooler temperatures before the colder weather starts.
It depends on your expectations. Sodding allows you to establish grass faster. When you sod, you can do so at any time of year (as long as the soil isn’t frozen). Homeowners just need to make sure the grass will get sufficient water. However, sodding is expensive and there are not as many types of grasses to choose from for sodding.
Seeding, on the other hand, offers a larger variety of seeds to choose from. It is cheaper to seed, and the root system when you seed is initially stronger than when you sod. Unlike sodding, seeding is limited to the growing season, and it takes a longer time to establish a mature lawn when you seed.
Perennial ryegrass germinates the fastest, at two to four days.
No one grass type is best suited for every condition. These conditions include the area of Vermont in which you reside, the characteristics of your property, and your lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nFor example, a shady property requires grass with high shade tolerance. Even if Kentucky bluegrass is recommended for your region, you may need a grass type like fine fescue if your lawn barely gets any sunlight. You may want to be more specific, and choose the chewings variety, which is the most shade tolerant of the fine fescue grass species.
\n\n\n\nChoose grass that compliments your outdoor activity and availability to provide maintenance. A grass with children running and playing hide-n-seek needs durability to withstand the high foot traffic. If you want more time to enjoy sugar samples at the Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, select grass seeds that free you from unnecessary upkeep.
\n\n\n\nNeed the help of a lawn care pro? Hire a Vermont lawn care pro near you who will handle the yard’s mowing, trimming, and edging.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Park in Rochester / Kenneth C. Zirkel / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"3 Best Grass Seeds for Vermont ","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/1789c/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/107df/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.jpg 320w,\n/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/293e9/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.jpg 500w,\n/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/f2cbb/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.jpg 800w,\n/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/1789c/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.jpg 960w,\n/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/c26c2/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/1dd6e/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/67b76/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.webp 320w,\n/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/8df11/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.webp 500w,\n/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/98a65/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.webp 800w,\n/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/1dd6e/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.webp 960w,\n/static/f7eda967a4f7b1020bef87a105397138/3cc96/View-of-the-Park-in-Rochester-Vermont.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"3 Best Grass Seeds for Vermont","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"The best cool-season grass seeds for Vermont homes will fit the yard’s conditions, homeowner’s maintenance preferences, and family composition."}}},{"node":{"id":"8cff5cf2-5a80-5ebf-8a91-9f1bc539adb6","slug":"best-grass-seeds-spokane","path":"/lawn-care/wa/spokane/best-grass-seeds-spokane/","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":"9a1d6289-f5f9-5fd2-aa9f-f9fe36bdb658","name":"Spokane","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wa/spokane/"},{"id":"7987b7f7-662d-55d4-9011-4af5647aa2dd","name":"Washington","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wa/"}],"date":"May 3rd, 2023","excerpt":"One of the great things about Spokane is its natural diversity and distinct seasons. But all that diversity has a price: Not all grasses thrive in conditions that swing from hot to cold and snowy. So if a beautiful lawn is a must-have, it pays to know what kinds of grasses do well in our […]
\n","content":"\nOne of the great things about Spokane is its natural diversity and distinct seasons. But all that diversity has a price: Not all grasses thrive in conditions that swing from hot to cold and snowy.
\n\n\n\nSo if a beautiful lawn is a must-have, it pays to know what kinds of grasses do well in our unique climate. Here are the four best grasses for your Spokane lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThere are two primary types of grasses.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses are your go-to choice for Spokane’s warm summers and cool snowy winters.
\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 type of fine fescue
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a highly versatile grass that does well in shade but also tolerates full sun. The leaves appear medium green with thin grass blades and a soft texture. Fine fescue is a low-maintenance grass but is susceptible to red thread. You can minimize the damage with proper nutrients and fungicides.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue can survive with minimal watering. However, if you plan on hosting many events in your yard, we don’t recommend this grass as it doesn’t tolerate high foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a popular grass type across Washington. However, we recommend you mix it with other cool-season grasses, as fine fescue takes a long time to recover from damage.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a coarse-textured grass that’s medium to dark green in color. It tolerates shade really well and needs just four hours of dappled sun a day to survive. Tall fescue has a deep root system, making it drought-tolerant, too.
\n\n\n\nWhile tall fescue can endure kids and pets playing, it doesn’t tolerate heavy foot traffic because it doesn’t contain stolons or rhizomes to repair itself. So, you have to overseed your tall fescue lawn to fill the damaged spots.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue requires little maintenance and can grow in almost all types of soils, but it prefers fertile, well-drained soil. It also resists diseases and insects.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass (KBG) is one of the most popular grass types in the United States. It looks beautiful with its dense and medium- to dark-green appearance. KBG is smooth-textured but can tolerate high foot traffic and recovers quickly from damages.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass prefers full sun and requires regular watering. It’s a high-maintenance grass that requires frequent mowing and fertilization.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass can be a good option for your Spokane lawn only if you mix it with other cool-season grasses. You can use a grass blend of 75% KBG and 25% fine fescue or another cool-season grass.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is among the fastest-growing grass types, requiring only about 10 days or less for the seeds to sprout. It’s a fine-textured grass that looks beautiful with its dark green leaves.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is soft on bare feet and tolerates high traffic. In fact, it’s so durable that it’s popular for golf courses in many parts of the country. On the downside, perennial ryegrass doesn’t quickly recover from damage.
Perennial ryegrass grows best in full sun and requires regular watering. It’s susceptible to red thread. But you can avoid it with proper maintenance.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue and turf-type tall fescue are the best options for a low-maintenance lawn.
In Spokane, the best option for a shady lawn is perennial ryegrass.
Fine fescue and turf-type tall fescue have low watering needs.
Any of these cool-season grasses will thrive in your Spokane lawn, so choose one that best suits your needs.
\n\n\n\nBut if you want to enjoy your free time with your family instead of doing lawn chores, Wikilawn Spokane lawn care pros are here to help. We can also transform your ordinary lawn into a beautiful garden to create a better living environment for your family.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Manito Park / Roman Eugeniusz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Seeds for Spokane, WA","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.593625498007968,"src":"/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/1789c/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/107df/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.jpg 320w,\n/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/293e9/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.jpg 500w,\n/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/f2cbb/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.jpg 800w,\n/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/1789c/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.jpg 960w,\n/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/c26c2/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/1dd6e/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/67b76/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.webp 320w,\n/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/8df11/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.webp 500w,\n/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/98a65/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.webp 800w,\n/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/1dd6e/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.webp 960w,\n/static/7f4160c0296f03cc076ff9edee536b79/3cc96/Manito-Spokane-WA-USA.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Seeds for Spokane, WA","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want a great lawn with minimal effort? It starts with choosing a cool-season grass that thrives in Spokane’s warm summers and snowy winters."}}},{"node":{"id":"19a5f6c1-a45f-5bb8-9b9c-ee36037f9071","slug":"popular-outdoor-living-landscaping-projects-for-dallas-tx-homeowners","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/popular-outdoor-living-landscaping-projects-for-dallas-tx-homeowners/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"January 7th, 2019","excerpt":"As residents of Dallas, we are blessed to live in Texas for many reasons, a few of which are our long hot summers and mild shoulder seasons. Make the most of your outdoor spaces by trying a few of these popular outdoor living and landscaping projects and get ready to see the full potential of […]
\n","content":"\nAs residents of Dallas, we are blessed to live in Texas for many reasons, a few of which are our long hot summers and mild shoulder seasons. Make the most of your outdoor spaces by trying a few of these popular outdoor living and landscaping projects and get ready to see the full potential of your own backyard.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/hVBjwwqgxgQ8Hn4YdtzWxF67wYrPsXorwfnxTMRwR3fyjISFZvr2pOGMAeZGg--GZItdyC2SbDUVxssitw0FYYHEEQGhBHRc4bCRjRbVzDrf_88wPDTUCy0baw-_aQ0l54jt4jIJ\")
As all Texans know, magic happens around the family grill. By building simple countertops around your existing grill you’ll be creating more space to prepare your culinary masterpieces. Think about adding a sink as well to make outdoor clean up a breeze.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/oAQ6iCOdwK9xq_6G8-SpjylI1QeWwAeSYUgwwnlmespwHGVuqIKszlLnXKkA4Fu4RHmBggCZNO9WL18vfVf91VEnWHYUVCmuUu4Esl7RuXT81UtiJRYPQEuQ1ZIJHcvl-JfpkEem\")
All that grilling and BBQing is hard work and sure to serve up a thirst in the most skilled grill master. Why not consider adding a special place for storing cool drinks into you grill station countertop system. A mini fridge stocked with cold refreshments will save the day, or at least save you too many trips back into the house!
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/2Mghjh1cb-EKrxxg4jgy2_I7Ta724dZuMp4AhrC07W9aFd89oIWPwNiB58R--C4b0JeJaaUi6AscTLgrEOGWBIz26D1E29QgzD0jZq0a-qt1eQ9T69yX85b7j-RnrauowrQYEBja\")
Sometimes starting the day off with a good cup of coffee in peace and quiet of nature is all it takes to set you up for success. Consider finding a quiet corner or tucked away spot in your yard; one that gets lots of morning sunshine to use as a place for practicing your morning ritual, whatever that might be. Create a simple path using hardwood mulch, decomposed granite, or irregular flagstone leading to your sitting area for easy access. Pick your favorite style of outdoor furniture and a stylish cushion with a small bistro table and you’ll be ready to take on whatever the day may bring.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q01VrSkGHiaqkcyWO-0rbmhm6mU_UuDP7FoRxJ-HNohPa-74Am55Qvj1ay_CPQf437pM5mda-IrkwR2yproOb2WPR6K9OQJ5VdIfUEURwF3ffigWzTd9xWHWUZlpBXyx1cD-1Npw\")
Extend your outdoor use by adding shade canopies to your back patio or deck. These can be as simple as a prefabricated, modular system such as those free-standing shade awnings found at most home improvement stores, or a more elaborate structure built directly off your building’s exterior walls. Just be sure to check with your local city codes for any permits you might be required to obtain before building!
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Y9OoFOy2vl0_J2RLcRXLOQo76I0Jyh-FZaL_9yUZoNpUAUPFWegNchYQJPMJHuz1VQ4um7-xIqLVBLxMSIFjhjIBvfaoxzMxwHpKP-grEzoHmgR4ZvpZy7HYiGqKhTeeY6kBkX8W\")
Add a nighttime focal point to your landscape by creating a safe area for a fire pit or tall chimenea. Start by checking your local codes and ordinances for rules or requirements related to outdoor fire pits or open flame to make sure they are allowed where you live. No matter your local laws, all fire pits should be at a minimum 10 feet from all structures, 25 feet is preferable and always keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of accidents.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fCeSOXwRroQHejFhY-ihx186ckbBL-_09kCguUxyQ2g4_1RLeh5hl9ohNmbJuo2-XZc5WebOtpW7F2sMGRhoR4KW7-N5U4Yk2w7D6UQIzbRJa7Y29bnpUvRc2zFaZX9XThVUqj-g\")
Make your outdoor living space and landscape a fun experience for people of all ages. Do this by planting species that are both educational as well as beautiful. Children love being able to touch, smell, and pick plants from the garden. Create a designated area for your little ones to be able to explore nature in their own backyard. Plants like Lambs Ears are soft and fuzzy, Balloon Flower creates interesting shaped petals and seed pods, and a row of culinary herbs smells and tastes amazing while providing the added benefit of enhancing your culinary adventures.
\n\n\n\nChoose any one from this list to take your outdoor space to the next level and maximize its potential by adding a few simple features to keep friends and family entertained all year long!
Looking for more landscaping or lawn care tips? Visit our Dallas lawn care guide for more information!
Homeowners know that finding the perfect plants for landscaping can be tough. But did you know that some of the best options may be right outside your home? St. Augustine’s moderate climate and coastal location make it the ideal habitat for various native plants that thrive in the region. Choosing native plants for your landscaping […]
\n","content":"\nHomeowners know that finding the perfect plants for landscaping can be tough. But did you know that some of the best options may be right outside your home? St. Augustine’s moderate climate and coastal location make it the ideal habitat for various native plants that thrive in the region.
\n\n\n\nChoosing native plants for your landscaping not only celebrates the natural beauty of this coastal town but also offers several advantages over non-native species:
\n\n\n\nWhether you’re looking to enhance your yard’s aesthetic appeal or create a sustainable and eco-friendly landscape, incorporating the best native plants for St. Augustine is a great way to achieve your goals.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nHere are 15 of the best native plants for St. Augustine, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and groundcovers.
\n\n\n\n![\"berries](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Callicarpa_americana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Korall / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nTypically found growing in the understory of wooded areas or along the edges of forests, this deciduous shrub produces small, pinkish-purple flowers in the spring and summer, eventually giving way to clusters of bright, magenta-colored berries in the fall. These berries are a food source for birds, including northern bobwhites and bluebirds.
\n\n\n\nTo make American beautyberry even more beautiful in your garden, consider planting it in groups or mass plantings to showcase its vibrant color. You also can mix it with other native plants, such as Florida anise, swamp milkweed, or goldenrod, to create a diverse and colorful landscape that attracts a variety of pollinators.
\n\n\n\nWhile American beautyberry is generally low-maintenance and disease-resistant, it may benefit from regular pruning to encourage a fuller and more attractive shape. If you want to keep the plant looking its best, trim back any dead or diseased branches in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6b-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall, 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun – needs at least four hours of direct sun exposure
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows well in most soil conditions but prefers fertile, organic loam soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – around 1 inch of water per week, but it needs deep, slow watering during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but its berries may cause discomfort like vomiting if ingested.
\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\nA beautiful and hardy native plant that thrives in the sandy soils and salty air of St. Augustine’s beaches, this low-growing perennial is a favorite among gardeners in the area for its bright flowers and ability to withstand harsh coastal conditions.
\n\n\n\nThe beach sunflower, which is a member of the aster family, blooms throughout the year, with the peak season occurring in the late summer and fall. During this time, the plant produces a profusion of yellow flowers resembling little suns.
\n\n\n\nAn excellent groundcover, beach sunflower can pair well with other native plants like sea oats and coontie, creating a natural beachy look in your landscape. Deadheading or trimming the flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms when the flowers start to fade. But avoid overwatering it if you don’t want it to succumb to sunflower rust.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8b-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, but can tolerate partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, acidic to alkaline, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Many](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Black-eyed-Susan-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nA showy, resilient wildflower native to much of North America, black-eyed Susan blooms from early summer to fall, producing bright yellow to orange flowers with dark centers. As they are well-suited to the climate and soil conditions of St. Augustine, you’ll often see them planted in parks, public gardens, and along roadsides throughout the city.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to its visual appeal, black-eyed Susan is a valuable food source for pollinators, including butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. It also provides a habitat for ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on pests like aphids and spider mites.
\n\n\n\nDeadheading the spent blooms can encourage the plant to produce more flowers, and dividing the clumps every few years can help keep it healthy and vigorous. To make the most of black-eyed Susan in your garden, consider planting it alongside other native perennials, like coneflowers and bee balm.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Short-lived perennial, annual, or biennial (depending on growing conditions)
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade – it needs at least six hours of sun exposure each day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, fertile, acidic, loamy, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans and pets, but may cause allergic skin reactions and asthma attacks
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Blanketflower_-_Gaillardia_aristata_IMG_6098-.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Macdon / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAnother member of the Aster family, blanketflower is popular in pollinator and butterfly gardens, attracting various species with their nectar-rich flowers. You can see them growing in gardens and natural areas, including Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine Beach, and the nearby Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve.
\n\n\n\nNative to the prairies of the southern United States, this perennial wildflower thrives in Florida’s sandy soils and warm, humid climate. It typically blooms from late spring through early fall, producing abundant flowers on bushy, compact plants. With its bright red and yellow petals, it can add a splash of color to garden beds, containers, and borders.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, dry, acidic, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but may cause skin irritation
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBlooming from late spring through summer with striking orange flowers, butterfly milkweed stands out in any garden. These flowers not only add a splash of color to any landscape, but they also serve as an important food source for monarch butterflies.
\n\n\n\nA hardy and beautiful perennial native to Florida, butterfly milkweed grows wild in meadows, fields, and prairies throughout the state. It’s a must-have plant for any homeowner looking to attract pollinators to their garden.
\n\n\n\nOne way to make your butterfly milkweed even more beautiful in the garden is to pair it with other native plants, such as black-eyed Susans, coreopsis, or blanketflowers. To promote healthy growth, water regularly and avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to weak stems and fewer flowers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – every part of the plant is toxic and can be fatal if ingested in large amounts
\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\nAlso known as Florida arrowroot, coontie is a slow-growing evergreen indigenous to Florida. It’s well-suited to the area’s warm, humid climate and has a lifespan of over 50 years. It blooms in the spring and produces small, yellowish flowers that are not particularly showy. But its pretty, fern-like foliage and unique texture more than compensate for its inconspicuous blooms.
\n\n\n\nCoontie is drought-tolerant once established and requires little maintenance, making it an excellent choice for busy homeowners. You can incorporate it into a mixed border with other native species and prune it to keep it in a more compact shape or let it grow naturally to its full size.
\n\n\n\nThe only native cycad in the United States, this ‘living fossil’ has been around for over 200 million years. It’s also the only plant that serves as the larval host for the Atala butterfly – an endangered species native to Florida.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8a-11b
\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 to partial shade (two to six hours of sun per day)
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, fertile, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – all parts of the plant are poisonous
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/coral-honeysuckle-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jo Naylor / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nNative to Florida and other southeastern states, coral honeysuckle produces bright, coral-red flowers that bloom from spring to fall. Its nectar-rich blooms attract a wide range of pollinators, including hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to any Florida garden.
\n\n\n\nThis versatile perennial can be planted in various settings, from borders and rock gardens to trellises and fences. It also makes an excellent groundcover, spreading quickly and providing a lush, green carpet of foliage. But remember that it has an extreme flammability rating, so you shouldn’t plant it too close to your house.
\n\n\n\nTo keep your coral honeysuckle looking its best, provide it with plenty of support, such as a trellis or fence. This will encourage it to climb and help prevent it from becoming too leggy or sprawling. To promote new growth and keep it from getting unruly, you also can prune it back in late winter or early spring.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-20 feet (depending on its supporting structure)
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen to evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Grows well in partial shade but prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained, rich, slightly acidic soil but tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Its berries are toxic to humans and pets but favored by birds
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Coreopsis_auriculata_Nana_3zz.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nCommonly found growing in the wild in dry, sandy soils in pine forests, sandhills, and open woodlands, ear-leaved tickseed is ideal for planting in large groups, along borders or pathways, or as a groundcover. This plant is a great addition to wildflower gardens or meadow landscapes.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant ear-leaved tickseed in large masses to create a stunning display of yellow blooms. Note that they need regular watering during the first growing season to establish their roots. But once established, they require very little watering, making them ideal for xeriscaping or water-wise gardening.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial plant produces yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from spring to summer. It’s a larval host to several butterfly species, including the Florida state butterfly – the zebra longwing. It also attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and other butterflies.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, loamy, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Florida-Anise-Illicium-floridanum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ted Bodner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nNative to Florida, this evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves grows naturally in moist, shaded areas throughout the state. It’s known for its large, star-shaped fruits that ripen in the fall and are a food source for many bird species.
\n\n\n\nA larval host plant for the spicebush swallowtail butterfly, Florida anise blooms in the spring, producing clusters of small, maroon flowers that have a sweet, spicy scent.
\n\n\n\nRemove dead or damaged branches and prune the shrub regularly to maintain its shape. Also, apply mulch around its base to retain moisture during the hot summer months. You also can grow it in containers or use it as a unique accent plant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-15 feet tall, 6-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained, fertile, clay, loamy, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – while it’s drought-tolerant, you will need to water it weekly during long periods of dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\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\nKnown for its large, showy flowers, oakleaf hydrangea blooms in late spring to early summer. The flowers are typically white but can take on pink or red tones in certain soil conditions. As its name suggests, the foliage of this Florida-friendly plant resembles that of an oak tree – with large, lobed leaves that turn a beautiful shade of burgundy in the fall.
\n\n\n\nSince it’s native to the Southeast U.S., oakleaf hydrangea is already well adapted to the hot and humid climate of St. Augustine. But regular pruning can help keep the plant healthy and encourage more blooms. Also, deadheading spent flowers can help promote new growth and extend the plant’s blooming period.
\n\n\n\nThe oakleaf hydrangea is a great plant for attracting wildlife to your garden. Its large flowers are a favorite of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, while the plant’s foliage provides shelter for birds and other small creatures.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 4-8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Fertile, loamy, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – every part of this plant is poisonous and must not be ingested by humans and animals
\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\nNative to Florida, pink pinxter azalea grows naturally in wetlands, woodlands, along stream banks, gardens, parks, and natural areas throughout St. Augustine and Jacksonville. It blooms with bright pink flowers in the early spring, serving as an important food source for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It’s also a larval host plant for the Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly.
\n\n\n\nConsider planting pink pinxter azalea in a shady area with well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The plant requires regular watering, especially during periods of drought. Pruning after flowering can help shape the plant and promote healthy growth.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-15 feet tall, 6-10 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist to dry, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic to both humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sabal-Palm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nAn iconic symbol of Florida, Sabal palm is the most common palm you’ll see throughout the state. Like saw palmetto, this slow-growing palm also thrives in sandy soils in wetlands, hammocks, and coastal plains. This hardy plant can withstand droughts, saltwater spray, and hurricanes, making it an ideal choice for landscaping in St. Augustine.
\n\n\n\nSabal palm blooms in late spring, producing small yellow flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its fruit, which is dark blue or black when ripe, is a favorite food source for birds such as woodpeckers and bluejays.
\n\n\n\nRemember to trim the lower leaves of the palm to showcase its unique trunk, which is covered in a brown fibrous material. You also can add mulch around its base to help retain moisture and control weeds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7b-11b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-30 feet tall, though it can grow up to 90 feet in the woods
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained, loamy, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – but for the first six months, water it often until established
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets – can cause paralysis or even death
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nAlso known as red salvia or scarlet salvia, scarlet sage is a stunning herbaceous perennial plant popularly grown in St. Augustine. This bright red-flowered plant is a showstopper in any garden or landscape, adding beautiful color and texture to any outdoor space. It’s a native of tropical and subtropical regions of the United States, including Florida, and thrives in the warm, humid climate of St. Augustine.
\n\n\n\nWith pungent foliage that makes it deer-resistant, scarlet sage blooms from late spring to early fall, producing vibrant red or pink flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. This evergreen is also a host plant for the white peacock butterfly, providing a source of food and habitat for its larvae.
\n\n\n\nScarlet sage reseeds easily but needs regular watering and fertilizing to help it thrive. Also, removing spent flowers can encourage more blooms. You also should prune the plant back after its blooming season to help it grow bushier and produce more flowers the following year.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial – annual in regions with below-freezing winters
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist to dry, clay, loamy, or sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – its flowers can cause gastric distress
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Southern-Live-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nWith their wide-spreading canopies and distinctive twisting branches, Southern live oaks are iconic features of the Florida landscape. You can find them throughout the city’s historic districts, public parks, and private gardens. Since the natural habitat of Southern live oaks is in coastal regions, they are well adapted to the sandy soils, salt spray, and high winds of these environments.
\n\n\n\nTypically blooming in the spring, these trees produce small, inconspicuous flowers that are pollinated by the wind. These evergreen trees are important host plants for a variety of butterfly and moth species, including the giant swallowtail butterfly and the io moth.
\n\n\n\nRegular watering and fertilization can help promote healthy growth and ensure the tree remains strong and disease-resistant. Additionally, pruning should be done carefully to maintain the tree’s natural shape and to prevent any damage to the branches or trunk. Also, consider incorporating other native plant species around the base of the tree to create a beautiful and sustainable landscape design.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8a-10b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-80 feet tall, 30-100 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained, loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – avoid ingesting the acorns and leaves as they can be poisonous to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"Small](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/walters-viburnum-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michael Rivera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWalter’s viburnum, also known as sweet viburnum, is a popular shrub for hedges or screens. It produces fragrant, creamy-white flowers in the spring while its glossy, dark green leaves provide year-round appeal. Its flowers are a favorite among pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds while the plant provides cover and nesting sites for birds.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to its ornamental value, Walter’s viburnum also serves as a larval host for the viburnum sphinx moth. This shrub responds well to pruning, and shaping it into a hedge or topiary can create a stunning focal point in any landscape. Applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub to small tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8-25 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen to semi-evergreen in regions with mild winters
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained, clay, sandy soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, but water it often until established (six to 12 months after planting)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustine is home to a diverse range of native plant species, from stunning wildflowers to lush shrubs and trees. With an average low temperature of around 48 degrees Fahrenheit, the city falls primarily into USDA hardiness zone 9a. This zone provides the perfect conditions for many native plants to thrive, but you must choose plants well-suited to your specific yard.
\n\n\n\nNot only do native plants enhance the beauty of your yard, but they also support the local ecosystem and help maintain the area’s natural balance. But while the region’s well-draining, sandy soil is ideal for many native plants, some may require additional nutrients or amendments to thrive.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, many native plants are drought-tolerant and can withstand hot, humid summers, but you must consider water usage and conservation. Using mulch and compost can help retain soil moisture and reduce the need for watering.
\n\n\n\nBefore selecting plants, test your soil first. You can get help from your local cooperative extension or soil testing lab to determine your soil’s pH level, texture, and nutrient and salinity levels. This way, you can choose the plants best suited to your soil type.
\n\n\n\nWhile St. Augustine is known for its lush greenery and subtropical climate, creating a backyard buffer can be an essential step in preserving the natural beauty of the area and protecting your home from hurricanes. Native plants are an excellent choice for this purpose, as they are well-suited to the local climate and can provide food and shelter for local wildlife.
Some of the best native plants for a backyard buffer in St. Augustine include coontie, firebush, muhly grass, red cedar, and wax myrtle.
Apart from beach sunflowers, other plants that bloom year-round in Florida include the Egyptian star cluster, plumbago, and porterweed. But remember that some perennial plants that show flowers all year in South Florida, like firespike, only bloom in certain months in North Florida.
The type of soil found in Northeast Florida can vary depending on location. But since St. Augustine is known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and diverse ecosystems, including salt marshes, barrier islands, and coastal forests, the city has mostly sandy soil with low fertility.
The sandy soil here is well-drained and doesn’t retain moisture well, making it challenging for plants to establish deep roots and absorb the nutrients they need to thrive. Adding organic matter, like compost, to sandy soil can help improve soil structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient content. Still, it’s better to choose native plants well-suited to the local soil conditions as they don’t require excessive watering or fertilization.
Even though St. Augustinegrass is a popular choice for many homeowners in the area, it may not be the best fit for a garden that features a variety of native plants. This is because St. Augustine grass is known to be aggressive and can outcompete other plants for resources.
A better option would be Zoysiagrass. This warm-season grass can thrive in the heat and humidity of St. Augustine and has a slower growth rate than St. Augustinegrass. This means it’s less likely to compete with native plants for resources, allowing them to grow and flourish.
Another option to consider is a ground cover, such as coontie, beach sunflower, creeping phlox, dwarf mondo grass, or creeping thyme. These low-growing plants can provide a green carpet-like appearance without the aggressive growth of St. Augustinegrass. They’re also great for edging walkways or filling in gaps between stepping stones – providing a visual contrast and adding texture to your garden.
St. Augustine is blessed with a rich diversity of native plant species, including flowering perennials, shrubs, and trees that thrive in the area’s unique climate and soil. If you’re looking to add some indigenous flora to your garden, there are several local nurseries and plant resources to check out.
\n\n\n\nStart your search with the Florida Native Plant Society, a statewide organization that promotes using native plants in landscaping and conservation. Their website provides much information on local plant species, their growing conditions, and where to find them.
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting native plants for your garden, consider the environmental conditions of your site, including soil type, water availability, and exposure to sun and shade. Also, purchase plants from reputable sources and avoid transplanting them from the wild.
\n\n\n\nAdding native plants to your landscape can help create a sustainable and low-maintenance garden that supports local ecosystems and provides habitat for native wildlife.
But if you’re short on time or unsure where to start, consider hiring a St. Augustine landscaping pro to help design and maintain your beautiful, eco-friendly garden.
Main Image Credit: Lazaregagnidze / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
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\n","content":"\nFrom its charming forests to the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, Kenosha is home to an abundance of natural wonders. If you want some of its beauty to thrive in your own backyard, you should consider planting some of the best native plants for the area.
\n\n\n\nHere’s why native plants are better than non-natives:
\n\n\n\nNative plants are not only easier to take care of but also contribute to a healthier environment. Additionally, it’s important to note that plants bloom at different times throughout the year. Therefore, it’s best to choose a wide variety of native plants that will bloom all year and provide food for birds and pollinators.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to start incorporating native plants into your garden or landscaping, read on about some of the best native plants for Kenosha.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\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\nThe red and yellow-colored flowers of the red columbine bloom in mid-late spring and are commonly enjoyed by both bees and birds. Even though their flowers are short-lived, they can self-seed and spread throughout your garden or yard, creating a stunning display year after year.
\n\n\n\nThe red columbines are low to medium-maintenance and may need a little extra care in the summer, such as cutting back old seed heads and stems. This can keep them looking tidy.
\n\n\n\nThere are no known hazards to the red columbine, but it comes from the Ranunculaceae family, which has many toxic plants. Therefore, caution is still advised.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: up to 3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous (evergreen in warmer climates)
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Light to moderate shade or full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates various well-drained soils but prefers moist, sandy or rocky soils that are fertile and moist
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium (avoid overwatering)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: No known hazards, but it belongs to a family of toxic plants, so practice caution
\n\n\n\n![\"Wild](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Geranium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe wild geranium, also called the cranesbill, is a beautiful perennial plant that blooms in spring and produces delicate pink or purple flowers. It attracts different kinds of pollinators and birds. Because it likes moist soil and some shade, it’s an excellent plant for woodland gardens or shady borders. Depending on the season and climate, the wild geranium may need frequent watering.
\n\n\n\nThere are no known toxic effects of Geranium maculatum, but there are many other plants in the Geraniaceae family that are highly toxic. Caution is advised.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist or slightly dry, rich and loamy soil with organic matter
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to high, depending on the season and climate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: No known hazards, but it belongs to a family of toxic plants, so practice caution
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe common milkweed has gorgeous pink and purple flowers that bloom in the summer. But its beauty is not all it has to offer.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to provide a safe haven for monarch butterflies in your garden, planting common milkweed is a great way to do it. This forb is the sole host plant for the threatened monarch butterfly caterpillars, providing crucial habitat for their reproduction and survival. Do keep in mind, though, that this plant is toxic to other animals and to humans.
\n\n\n\nThe common milkweed is generally a low-maintenance plant that needs just the right amount of water. Overwatering (as well as humid climates and plant diseases) can cause the growth of lethal fungi.
\n\n\n\nWe recommend combining common milkweed with other nectar plants to provide monarchs with plenty of food.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-5 feet tall (can grow up to 8 feet)
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous with a few exceptions
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun is preferred; light shade is tolerable for some species like the A. purpurascens
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Average, well-drained soils; can tolerate poor or dry soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium (avoid overwatering)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic (except for monarchs)
\n\n\n\n![\"Culver's](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Culvers-Root.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCulver’s root is a beautiful plant with spikes of flowers that range from white to pink. This tall, eye-catching plant can add an extra touch of elegance to your Kenosha garden or yard.
\n\n\n\nYou can expect your culver’s root to bloom in the summer and attract pollinators as well as birds. Deadheading can be done to prolong its bloom time. If you want to keep your plant looking gorgeous and healthy, it will need some maintenance. This includes regular watering and may also involve staking.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, take note that the plant’s fresh root is toxic.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or light shade (can’t grow in the shade)
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Tolerates most soils but prefers light or medium, well-drained, moist, rich soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic fresh root
\n\n\n\n![\"Wild](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Bergamot-or-Bee-Balm-Monarda-Fistulosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe bee balm, also called wild bergamot, is a popular native plant choice. This is a flowering plant that blooms in the summer. It’s great at attracting bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and hawk moths to your garden. Bee balm is relatively easy to grow, with some maintenance, such as deadheading, required.
\n\n\n\nAlthough bee balm is often viewed as safe to consume, there are some risks (see some of them below). Consult a medical professional if you’re unsure about the safety of consuming this plant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2–4 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or light shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist; many kinds of soil are suitable, but flooding should ideally be avoided
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Consuming this plant poses some risks for pregnant women, nursing women, and children; excessive consumption is unsafe for pets; practice caution
\n\n\n\n![\"Northern](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Northern-Maidenhair-Fern.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Schnobby / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Northern maidenhair fern has unique, bright green fronds and dark brown to black stems. This plant can easily flourish in the right conditions. It blooms in the summer and is the perfect addition to a shade garden with well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nThe northern maidenhair fern isn’t considered a high-maintenance plant but does require your care to thrive. You should especially make sure that its soil stays moist, as the plant can’t tolerate dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nBecause it’s a fern rather than a flower, it’s not the right plant to attract birds and pollinators. However, its lush green foliage can still add a refreshing touch to any outdoor space.
\n\n\n\nThe plant is slightly toxic, so practice caution.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Fern
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 2.5 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Light to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high (but don’t overwater; always keep soil moist but not wet)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Slightly toxic; the plant contains carcinogens; it may also contain thiaminase, which can be destroyed by heat or thorough drying
\n\n\n\n![\"Stiff](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Stiff-Goldenrod.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Frank Mayfield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe lovely stiff goldenrod flowers bloom in the late summer to early fall and thrive in full sun to partial shade. They attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies in the summer and birds in the fall. These flowers are relatively easy to care for, resistant to drought, and can grow up to 5 feet tall.
\n\n\n\nBecause stiff goldenrods are self-seeding, they spread quickly and may require some maintenance to prevent them from taking over other areas of the garden. However, their vibrant color and ability to attract pollinators and birds make them a great addition to any Kenosha garden.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1–5 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, poor, dry to medium moist, average soil (in rich moist soils, the plant may over
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazard: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"Little](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Little-Bluestem.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Montrealais / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe blue-green leaves of the little bluestem turn a beautiful coppery orange in the fall, adding color to the landscape. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant and requires minor maintenance.
\n\n\n\nYou should cut it back to the ground in late winter and early spring so that it can grow back fresh and look beautiful year after year. Moreover, take note that the little bluestem can be an invasive species if not properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nThe plant flowers in late summer and early fall. It’s also a great food source for birds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Grass
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2–4 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Average soil that’s dry to medium moist and well-drained, but tolerates various soil conditions, including light, heavy, rocky, and poor, and infertile soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazard: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"Heart-Leaved](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Heart-Leaved-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alexis Godin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe heart-leaved aster, also called heart-leaved American-aster and blue wood aster, is a stunning blue-purple wildflower that blooms in late summer and early fall. It’s adaptable and resilient, so it’s not difficult to care for.
\n\n\n\nBirds love the heart-leaved aster for its seeds, and butterflies and bees are drawn to its nectar. If you’re looking to attract beneficial wildlife to your garden, this plant is a great choice.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2–5 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous with a few exceptions
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Light to full shade or full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Average, well-drained, dry to moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazard: None known
\n\n\n\n![\"New](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Cosmonaut / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5 CA
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe New England aster is a classic option for adding a pop of purple to your garden. It blooms from late summer to early fall and is a frequent nectar source for bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThe plant prefers moist, rich, well-drained soil and low to medium watering. But if you don’t remember to water it regularly, don’t worry, as it can live off rainwater. The New England aster can grow up to 6 feet, but you can cut back the stems of the flower in June and early July. This will encourage bushier growth and more flowers in the late summer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 6 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, rich, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazard: None known
\n\n\n\nThe right plants for your landscape depend on various factors, including the amount of sunlight, soil type, and water needs. When considering which plants to buy, consider your lawn’s unique characteristics and how much you’ll be willing to maintain them. Research how to take care of each plant thoroughly, including what they need in terms of mulch, fertilizer, and so on.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, make sure your plant is able to thrive in Kenosha’s hardiness zone before you buy it. Kenosha’s hardiness zone is 5b, indicating that its minimum average temperature is between -10 and -15 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to choose plants that can withstand these temperatures. Of course, all the plants mentioned in this article can thrive in Kenosha’s hardiness zone.
\n\n\n\nAs we mentioned at the beginning of this article, we suggest getting plants that bloom at different times of the year so that pollinators and birds have a food source in your garden throughout the seasons.
\n\n\n\nYou might find some of these native plants in your yard already, but if you want to add more to your garden, you can get them ethically by purchasing from local native plant nurseries. It’s important to choose plants that are locally sourced and not taken from the wild, as this can harm natural ecosystems.
\n\n\n\nHere are a few of Wisconsin’s local nurseries:
\n\n\n\nThere are various resources to help homeowners find the right southeastern Wisconsin native plants. You can view a full list of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources‘ recommended Wisconsin nurseries here. If you want to plant milkweed, you can use the recommended Milkweed Finder Tool. You can also view Kenosha nurseries on Yelp. If you’re adding new plants, there may be other areas of your garden that need attention. Just like plants, grass types also require specific conditions to thrive, so make sure that you get one of the best grass types for Kenosha. Moreover, consider hiring one of WikiLawn’s Kenosha, WI lawn care pros to keep your lawn green and healthy.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Dj53144 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Kenosha, Wisconsin","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/1789c/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/107df/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.jpg 320w,\n/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/293e9/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.jpg 500w,\n/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/f2cbb/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.jpg 800w,\n/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/1789c/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.jpg 960w,\n/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/c26c2/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/1dd6e/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/67b76/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.webp 320w,\n/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/8df11/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.webp 500w,\n/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/98a65/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.webp 800w,\n/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/1dd6e/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.webp 960w,\n/static/cf922353cde26b5191d5799f9ce36fd8/3cc96/Wolfenbuttel-Park-Kenosha-WI.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Kenosha, Wisconsin","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Kenosha is home to an abundance of natural wonders. If you want some of its beauty to thrive in your own backyard, read on."}}},{"node":{"id":"40d9a461-4028-5e56-8889-f932c5567e30","slug":"best-grass-types-charleston","path":"/lawn-care/sc/charleston/best-grass-types-charleston/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a8c83048-dc3b-5f6e-b021-c92b6000eb0c","name":"Charleston","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/charleston/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"1ea697f8-5b42-5431-b368-7296faebead2","name":"South Carolina","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/sc/"}],"date":"May 8th, 2023","excerpt":"Nestled along the picturesque coast of South Carolina, Charleston is a city known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and lush greenery. From sprawling parks to manicured lawns, the Holy City boasts an array of outdoor spaces that showcase the beauty of the Lowcountry. However, maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn in Charleston can be […]
\n","content":"\nNestled along the picturesque coast of South Carolina, Charleston is a city known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and lush greenery. From sprawling parks to manicured lawns, the Holy City boasts an array of outdoor spaces that showcase the beauty of the Lowcountry.
\n\n\n\nHowever, maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn in Charleston can be challenging due to the city’s hot and humid climate, which can wreak havoc on many grass varieties. To help homeowners and landscapers choose the best grass for their lawns, here’s a list of the five best grass types for Charleston.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season and cool-season grasses have distinct differences in growth patterns and requirements.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses: As the name suggests, these grass varieties grow actively and thrive during summer – when the temperature is between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. They go dormant and turn brown during winter, so they should be planted in late spring or early summer.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses: The ideal temperature range for them to thrive is typically between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why they’re most active in the spring and fall and struggle in the summer heat.
\n\n\n\nIn Charleston, warm-season grasses are the best option for lawns because they are well-suited to the region’s long, hot summers and can tolerate drought and high temperatures. Some of the most common warm-season grasses you’ll find in the area include centipedegrass, bermudagrass, and Zoysiagrass.
\n\n\n\nExplore the most common grass types available for Charleston lawns and choose the one that will best help you achieve your goals for your outdoor space.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bidgee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a popular grass variety for lawns, golf courses, and athletic fields in Charleston, and for a good reason. This hardy grass type can stay pretty while it tolerates heavy foot traffic and withstands the city’s unique climate and environmental challenges.
\n\n\n\nOne thing homeowners love about bermudagrass is its ability to thrive in full sunlight. This grass variety requires a lot of direct sunlight to grow and remain healthy, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who have lawns exposed to full sun throughout the day.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass also has a high tolerance for drought, meaning it can continue to grow and remain green even during periods of low rainfall or high temperatures.
Classification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low – some cultivars need more time in the sun than others
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High – but may become dormant in long periods of drought
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – requires frequent watering, fertilization, and mowing
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches – raise the mowing height to retain more moisture during drought or extreme heat
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – can be prone to brown patch, dollar spot, leaf spot, and spring dead spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – mostly prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, and armyworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in almost all soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Homeowners may find this grass species appealing due to its remarkable ability to grow rapidly. But its aggressive growth can have adverse effects as it may invade and take over other meticulously maintained areas and plant beds.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carpetgrass.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Sugeesh / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDespite its resemblance to crabgrass, this grass variety has unique characteristics that make it a desirable option for homeowners facing challenging lawn conditions. For example, its ability to thrive in drought-prone and nutrient-poor environments makes it an ideal choice where other grass types may find it hard to survive.
\n\n\n\nWhile other grass varieties struggle in areas with limited sunlight, carpetgrass can grow and flourish in shaded areas, making it an excellent option for lawns surrounded by trees or other structures that block out the sun.
\n\n\n\nAlso known as Louisianagrass, this grass variety can withstand flooding and other water-related challenges. It can tolerate standing water for extended periods, making it an ideal choice for Charleston homes threatened by hurricanes, heavy rainfall, and flooding or properties with poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, carpetgrass requires minimal maintenance as it can grow without additional fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Although, some homeowners may still opt to apply nitrogen to promote growth.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – less shade-tolerant than St. Augustinegrass
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate – its shallow roots won’t survive in dry conditions
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – Requires weekly mowing to control its tall seed heads
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low resistance – mostly prone to large patch
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – can be prone to nematodes and white grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Sandy, acidic, infertile, moist but not muddy
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Often propagated through seeds, this grass type doesn’t fare well in dry climates.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is a popular grass type in South Carolina, thanks to its ability to produce dense lawns that demand minimal upkeep. Due to its slow growth rate, it doesn’t require frequent mowing, so you won’t need to spend hours each week tending to your lawn.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, this resilient grass can survive in nutrient-deficient and acidic soils. Its light color and medium texture are well-suited to the region’s soil types and climate conditions. Since it’s resistant to most pests and diseases, centipedegrass is a great option for homeowners who want to avoid using chemicals and pesticides on their lawn.
\n\n\n\nHowever, its primary limitation is its inability to withstand heavy foot traffic. As such, it’s best suited for areas with minimal activity and not recommended for homeowners who often host barbecue parties in their backyards.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – thrives in areas that receive abundant sunlight but can still grow well with as little as six hours of sun exposure per day
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low to moderate – may turn brown and become dormant during extended periods of drought
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low – grows well even with minimal watering, mowing, and fertilization
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5-2 inches – increase the mower height by 1/2 inch for lawns in shaded areas
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – mostly prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – can be prone to mole crickets, sod webworms, spittlebugs, nematodes, and ground pearl insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, and well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Avoid overusing fertilizers and excessive nitrogen levels to maintain a balanced ecosystem in your lawn, discouraging the proliferation of harmful lawn diseases and pest infestations.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St.-Augustinegrass.jpg\")
St. Augustinegrass
Photo Credit: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
St. Augustinegrass, also known as Charleston grass, is a popular choice for lawns in coastal homes. It can tolerate both sandy and clay soils, which are common in many areas of Charleston. Homes along the Carolina coast can benefit from this grass variety’s ability to tolerate heat and salt while preferring warm winters and moist soil conditions.
\n\n\n\nThis grass type’s flat stems and broad leaves create a dense turf, resulting in a lush and beautiful blue-green lawn. Due to its thick growth, St. Augustinegrass is effective at crowding out most weeds. But it can be prone to fungal diseases and pests like chinch bugs. As such, you should take preventative measures to protect your lawns from these potential threats.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate – some cultivars are more shade-tolerant
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high – needs frequent watering, mowing, and fertilization
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow tall in shade, standard cultivars 3-4 inches, and dwarf cultivars 2.5-3 inches)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate resistance – common diseases include large patch, take-all root rot, and gray leaf spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance – mostly prone to grubs, chinch bugs, armyworms, cutworms, grass loopers, mole crickets, and webworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in most soil types but prefers moist (not muddy) and moderately fertile soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Indigenous to coastal areas, St. Augustinegrass favors damp soils and temperate winters, but it can flourish even in inland regions as long as proper growing conditions are met. Although, it wouldn’t do well in compacted, clay soils.
\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 a popular choice for homeowners who want a lawn with a beautiful, light to medium green hue and dense coverage. While different varieties of Zoysiagrass have varying characteristics, most have a medium to coarse texture.
\n\n\n\nWhat makes Zoysiagrass especially great for Charleston is its remarkable ability to thrive in any soil type, be it sand, loam, or clay, and its salt tolerance. Additionally, this grass type is incredibly versatile – able to withstand heat, drought, and even cold weather. It has deep roots that can reach up to 6 feet underground, allowing it to access moisture and nutrients even during periods of low rainfall.
\n\n\n\nThis grass variety’s dense growth pattern allows it to handle heavy traffic and activity with ease, making it perfect for families with pets and children. While it requires minimal maintenance, adding nitrogen during the growing season can support its carpet-like growth.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate – it needs adequate sun exposure
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High – although you need to give it supplemental water during dry periods
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate resistance – common diseases include spring dead spot, rust, pythium blight, powdery mildew, root decline, brown patch, curvularia, dollar spot, leaf spot, and fairy wings
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate resistance – can be prone to mole crickets, sod webworms, grubs, hunting billbugs, armyworms, nematodes, and chinch bugs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Grows in most soil types but thrives in well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: This turfgrass is a popular pick for those who frequently host outdoor gatherings in their backyard, as it can easily handle heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nTwo grass types are perfect for shady areas in Charleston – St. Augustinegrass and centipedegrass. St. Augustinegrass is known for its high tolerance to shade and can thrive even with just four hours of sunlight per day. With excellent drought tolerance and disease resistance, it is well-suited for Charleston’s warm and humid climate.
On the other hand, centipedegrass is a low-maintenance option that also tolerates shade well. It has a fine texture and medium green color, making it ideal for any Charleston landscape.
Dogs love running around the backyard during playtime hours, so you need a resilient grass type that can withstand high paw traffic and pet activities. Zoysiagrass is known for its durability and ability to recover quickly from damage, making it an ideal choice for pet owners.
Additionally, this grass variety tends to have fewer issues with common lawn pests and diseases, which can be a concern for those who want to keep their pets safe and healthy while playing outdoors.
Bermudagrass is another grass type that can withstand heavy foot traffic on your Charleston lawn. This grass variety is known for its tough, durable texture, making it an ideal option for areas that receive a lot of wear and tear.
During dormancy, grass enters a state of hibernation to conserve resources and energy during periods of environmental stress such as extreme cold, heat, or drought. As a result, the grass appears brown or straw-colored and shows no signs of new growth. The blades become dry and brittle, making them more susceptible to damage and not spring back up after being compressed. Footprints left on dormant grass will remain longer than on healthy grass.
Remember that dormancy is a natural process for grasses, allowing them to survive until conditions improve. When the weather warms up or cools down and there is sufficient moisture, the grass will come out of dormancy and start to grow again. Avoid walking on the dormant grass during this time to prevent unnecessary damage. Also, continue basic lawn care, such as mowing and watering, to ensure the grass stays healthy during dormant periods.
Picking the right grass variety can be the key to achieving the lush, vibrant lawn of your dreams. With several grass types available, you can choose a low-maintenance option or one that can tolerate the Holy City’s unique environmental challenges the most.
\n\n\n\nConsider factors like the amount of sunlight your lawn receives, soil type, and water availability to select the ideal grass type for your needs. Whether you’re drawn to the resilience and drought tolerance of Zoysiagrass, the thick and luscious texture of St. Augustinegrass, or the durability of bermudagrass, there’s a grass variety that is perfect for your lawn.
Reach out to a Charleston lawn care professional today, and create the backyard paradise that your family and friends will enjoy.
Main Image Credit: Paul Gillett / Geograph / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Charleston, SC","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/1789c/Lawn-at-Charleston.jpg","srcSet":"/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/107df/Lawn-at-Charleston.jpg 320w,\n/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/293e9/Lawn-at-Charleston.jpg 500w,\n/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/f2cbb/Lawn-at-Charleston.jpg 800w,\n/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/1789c/Lawn-at-Charleston.jpg 960w,\n/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/c26c2/Lawn-at-Charleston.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/1dd6e/Lawn-at-Charleston.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/67b76/Lawn-at-Charleston.webp 320w,\n/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/8df11/Lawn-at-Charleston.webp 500w,\n/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/98a65/Lawn-at-Charleston.webp 800w,\n/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/1dd6e/Lawn-at-Charleston.webp 960w,\n/static/62040bac996ecf4df414735322b8238d/3cc96/Lawn-at-Charleston.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Charleston, SC | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Looking for the perfect grass type for your yard? Discover the 5 best grass types for Charleston's climate and enjoy a lush, healthy lawn"}}},{"node":{"id":"b14a7f00-32a3-5c0c-9861-a1a16366e9ca","slug":"best-grass-types-frisco","path":"/lawn-care/tx/frisco-tx/best-grass-types-frisco/","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":"fbcb4f86-672c-5568-973c-ef39df6b31fd","name":"Frisco, TX","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/frisco-tx/"},{"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":"April 11th, 2023","excerpt":"Home to the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve and the Rowlett Creek Nature Preserve Trail, Frisco has a lot of natural beauty. Why not bring some of that beauty to your lawn with some of Frisco’s best grasses? In this article: Bermudagrass Photo Credit: Pexels Bermudagrass is popular in Frisco because it tolerates drought quite well, […]
\n","content":"\nHome to the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve and the Rowlett Creek Nature Preserve Trail, Frisco has a lot of natural beauty. Why not bring some of that beauty to your lawn with some of Frisco’s best grasses?
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\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\n\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is popular in Frisco because it tolerates drought quite well, allowing it to hold up nicely to our hot summers. It also requires lots of sunlight, so Bermudagrass might not do as well if you have a shady yard.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is used in golf courses, lawns, and athletic fields because it tolerates heavy foot traffic and low mowing heights.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Both stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 – 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShade- and drought-tolerant St. Augustinegrass is a popular choice for lawns and recommended for any property that doesn’t get much sunlight.
\n\n\n\nHowever, St. Augustinegrass doesn’t tolerate heavy foot traffic, cold, or diseases well, so be careful if you have a brutal winter. Likewise, if you plan on having kids and pets in the yard, this isn’t the right grass for you.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolon
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5 – 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you don’t like watering your lawn, buffalograss is a great choice. It’s naturally drought-tolerant and disease resistant (meaning it doesn’t require extra fertilizer or pesticides). Its lower and slower growth rate also means you don’t need to water it as much as other grasses.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss has a cool, green summertime color, making it a very attractive turf. It also has finer and drier leaves than other grasses, so it doesn’t clump or thatch when you mow it.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizome
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Very Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: James Becwar JamesBecwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWant a low-maintenance lawn? Centipedegrass is probably your best bet. Its slow, low growth habit means you don’t need to mow or fertilize it as often as other warm-season grasses. It also tolerates diseases.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass doesn’t tolerate heavy foot traffic, cold, or shade. If you have a shady area or plan to use your lawn frequently, avoid this grass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolon
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\nIf you get a lot of shade, go for St. Augustinegrass.
Bermudagrass handles foot traffic very well, making it a great option for busy yards.
Either centipedegrass or bermudagrass is the way to go.
Centipedegrass and buffalograss handle highly acidic soils well, so either is a good choice.
Picking the best grass type depends on both your yard and your lifestyle. There’s no right or wrong answer.
\n\n\n\nOnce you pick your grass, add some native plants to your yard. Not only are they good for the ecosystem, but they’ll look good in your yard while not needing much attention.
\n\n\n\n
If you want a professional to do the work instead, contact one of Wikilawn’s lawn care pros, and we’ll lend a helping hand.
Main Photo Credit: Brent Eckley / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"Best Grasses for Your Frisco Yard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/1789c/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/107df/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.jpg 320w,\n/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/293e9/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.jpg 500w,\n/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/f2cbb/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.jpg 800w,\n/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/1789c/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.jpg 960w,\n/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/c26c2/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/1dd6e/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/67b76/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.webp 320w,\n/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/8df11/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.webp 500w,\n/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/98a65/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.webp 800w,\n/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/1dd6e/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.webp 960w,\n/static/5597a9a1b7a24c2c3654abfcc8a5b65c/3cc96/11312-Hubbard-Creek-Drive-Frisco-TX-7503.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Grass Types for Frisco, TX","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"A great lawn starts with the right type of grass. These five grass types thrive in Frisco’s climate"}}},{"node":{"id":"3ebd0074-0403-5c7a-b6e2-447d002198f4","slug":"best-native-plants-cleveland","path":"/lawn-care/oh/cleveland/best-native-plants-cleveland/","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":"7ba0d0fa-46fc-5a18-a83f-513673ed896c","name":"Cleveland","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/cleveland/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"April 5th, 2023","excerpt":"Cleveland is called the Forest City for a reason. It’s home to many gardens, including the world-famous Cleveland Cultural Gardens. You can have a fantastic garden, too, especially if you choose easy-to-maintain native plants that thrive in Ohio’s diverse climate. Here is a look at 10 of the best native plants for Cleveland. In this […]
\n","content":"\nCleveland is called the Forest City for a reason. It’s home to many gardens, including the world-famous Cleveland Cultural Gardens. You can have a fantastic garden, too, especially if you choose easy-to-maintain native plants that thrive in Ohio’s diverse climate.
\n\n\n\nHere is a look at 10 of the best native plants for Cleveland.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nNative plants, as the name suggests, belong to a local region. They are well-adapted to a region’s climate and soil conditions as they have been growing there for several years.
\n\n\n\nHere’s why native plants are better than non-natives.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/image-263.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nBee balm looks beautiful with its bright scarlet flowers. The foliage has a minty fragrance as they are part of the mint family. Bee balm performs best in full sun and moist soil.
\n\n\n\nBee balm blooms throughout the summer, and the flowers attract bees and butterflies. Songbirds like to snack on their seed heads during fall and winter.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Geranium-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWild geranium features palmate-shaped leaves with five petals. The flowers come in pink or lavender colors. Wild geraniums are beautiful and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nWild geraniums bloom for a lengthy period, from late spring to early summer. They prefer moist soil and grow well in full or partial sun.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Needs high watering during the growth period. Once matured, it requires watering only in drought conditions.
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to children. Toxic to pets.
\n\n\n\n![\"Field](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/black-eyed-susan-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan blooms throughout the summer, adorning your lawn with bright-yellow flowers with dark brown beads in the center. They are fast-growing climbers that attract birds, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan requires low maintenance and grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. You can remove the dead heads of the faded flowers to keep black-eyed Susan in bloom for much longer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, high drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/image-76.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: rockerBOO / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nCardinal flowers look attractive with their two-lipped bright red tubular flowers. They bloom during hot summers when most plants are done blooming. Cardinal flowers require low maintenance and can tolerate partial shade but not drought.
\n\n\n\nCardinal flowers depend on hummingbirds for fertilization as other insects can’t make their way in to reach the nectar because of the flower’s shape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist,well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed features clusters of bright orange flowers that attract bees, hummingbirds, and especially monarch butterflies. They require little maintenance and can tolerate drought conditions.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed blooms from late spring and stays the same throughout the summer. During fall, the leaves of butterfly weed turns dull yellow, and the flowers burst open to reveal their fluffy white seeds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, high drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/White-Wood-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mets501 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWhite wood aster looks beautiful and blends well with other plants on your lawn. They bloom in late summer, producing small white flowers with yellow centers that gradually turn red. Butterflies love white wood asters.
\n\n\n\nWhite wood aster tolerates drought and can grow in rocky soil. These plants only require three hours of partial sunlight a day.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial sun. Can tolerate full shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil. Can survive in rocky soil.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, high drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nPerennial coneflower looks distinctive with reddish-purple petals. It blooms from early summer through early fall. Perennial coneflower attracts birds and butterflies when in full bloom.
\n\n\n\nThis plant grows in rocky soils, making it a great option for low-maintenance lawns. It tolerates drought but doesn’t tolerate shade very well.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and about 1.5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil. Can survive in rocky soil.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Obedient-Plant.jpg\")
Photo Credit: F. D. Richards / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe obedient plant, also known as false dragonhead, blooms from late summer to fall. The flowers appear in light shades of pink and white. They attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators when in full bloom.
\n\n\n\nObedient plant is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. Wondering how obedient plant got its name? These plants hold their position when bent.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wood-Poppy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nWood poppies look attractive with their bright yellow flowers. They can grow under full shade, making them a great option for shady lawns. They can resist diseases and perform best in well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nWood poppies bloom from spring to early summer. Remove the dead heads of the old flowers to make the plant bloom much longer.
\n\n\n\nIf you like chipmunks, wood poppies are a must-have on your lawn. These cute creatures love the seeds produced by this plant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to a foot tall and a foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Bluish green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Savanna-Blazing-Star.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Rawpixel
\n\n\n\nSavanna blazing star is rare to spot in Cleveland, but it’s native to Ohio and can adapt to the climate of the Forest City. It looks appealing with its bright pink shaggy flower heads. Savanna blazing star grows best in full sun and can tolerate drought and rocky soil.
\n\n\n\nSavanna blazing star blooms from late summer to mid-fall and lasts about 1.5 months. They attract butterflies and hummingbirds when in full bloom.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nCleveland’s hardiness zone is 6, meaning the winters are cold and summers are warm. The plants listed here are native to Cleveland and survive nicely in the area’s climate. Select a plant that best suits your lawn’s conditions and satisfies your requirements.
\n\n\n\nIf you have children and pets playing on your lawn, we suggest you choose non-toxic plants. Make sure to consider a plant’s growing size when you purchase it. Some plants grow too big, which may not suit your yard.
\n\n\n\nHere are Cleveland nurseries that sell native plants.
\n\n\n\nSometimes, native plants may be already growing on your lawn. So, don’t forget to look around your yard for these plants.
\n\n\n\nNative plants can increase the appeal of your yard. But your lawn won’t be complete without planting the best grass types in Cleveland. A lush, green, and healthy lawn is a combination of everything, including proper maintenance.
\n\n\n\nIf you want someone to help you to maintain your lawn, consider hiring Wikilawn Cleveland lawn care experts.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Cleveland, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/1789c/Native-plants-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/107df/Native-plants-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/293e9/Native-plants-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/f2cbb/Native-plants-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/1789c/Native-plants-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/c26c2/Native-plants-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/1dd6e/Native-plants-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/67b76/Native-plants-1.webp 320w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/8df11/Native-plants-1.webp 500w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/98a65/Native-plants-1.webp 800w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/1dd6e/Native-plants-1.webp 960w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/3cc96/Native-plants-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Cleveland, OH | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Turn your ordinary yard into a heavenly paradise by installing native plants that look great and thrive in Cleveland's diverse climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"632ba0b0-32f1-53f4-8d17-129161c838a8","slug":"best-grass-types-tennessee","path":"/lawn-care/tn/best-grass-types-tennessee/","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":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"5b679b70-01bd-54c3-aa31-693dd631b9f5","name":"Tennessee","count":11,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tn/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"Home to America’s most-visited national park, Tennessee isn’t short of scenic attractions. You can bring some of that beauty to your front yard as well, and it starts with a lush lawn. A great lawn significantly enhances the curb appeal of your home, increases its value, and provides a space for relaxation and recreation. But […]
\n","content":"\n
Home to America’s most-visited national park, Tennessee isn’t short of scenic attractions. You can bring some of that beauty to your front yard as well, and it starts with a lush lawn.
A great lawn significantly enhances the curb appeal of your home, increases its value, and provides a space for relaxation and recreation. But not all grass is built alike. The best grass for a lawn in Tennessee will thrive in a climate that has distinct seasons and significant weather fluctuations.
\n\n\n\nBelow are the best.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nGrass types are usually categorized into warm-season and cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nBecause Tennessee is in the transition zone, it accommodates both cool-season and warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nHowever, take note that Tennessee is a diverse state that consists of different regions:
\n\n\n\nDepending on where in Tennessee you live, the climate, hardiness zone, and elevation may vary and impact your grass choice. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the best warm-season and cool-season grasses for Tennessee below.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass can withstand heat and drought very well. It’s also a great option for busy lawns because it holds up well to foot traffic. Once established, it forms a light green, dense turf.
\n\n\n\nThis grass comes in various cultivars, each with different needs and characteristics. If you want to know which Bermudagrass is right for you, be sure to talk to an expert. Also, take note that the grass has an aggressive tunneling habit, so you’ll need to protect your ornamental beds with concrete or metal edging down to about two inches.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
Shade tolerance: Low; some cultivars may have slightly better shade tolerance, but in general, Bermudagrass needs full sun
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: Highly wear-resistant; if foot traffic damage does occur, Bermudagrass recovers well because of its aggressive rhizomes.
Maintenance needs: Moderate; may need mowing as often as twice per week due to its low mowing height; plan to dethatch regularly
Mowing height: 1 to 2.5 inches (rotary mower) or 0.75 to 1 inch (reel mower)
Potential for disease: Low, but common diseases include spring dead spots, large patches, and take-all root rot
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a low-maintenance grass, centipedegrass is a great option. It needs less mowing, watering, and fertilizer compared to other grass types, making it ideal for those who want a beautiful lawn without too much upkeep. Using fewer chemicals is also better for the environment and animals.
\n\n\n\nOne of the weaknesses of centipedegrass is that it can’t handle much foot traffic, so if you have a busy lawn, you should look elsewhere. This grass also grows slowly, so you may want to consider getting sod or plugs, but those will also be more expensive. Moreover, take note that not all varieties are cold-hardy.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
Spreads by: Stolons
Shade tolerance: Moderate; full sun or partial shade
Drought tolerance: Moderate to high (with the right maintenance)
Foot traffic tolerance: Very low; if damaged, ensure to water promptly
Maintenance needs: Low, and requires less mowing than other grasses because of its slow growth habit
Mowing height: 1 to 2 inches, depending on conditions
Potential for disease: Moderate; can be prevented with the right care
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a dense, light-to-medium green warm-season grass that tolerates cold relatively well and can even grow in moderate shade. It can also handle weeds, drought, foot traffic, and various soil types.
\n\n\n\nHowever, keep in mind that Zoysiagrass doesn’t repair itself easily if damaged and is slow to establish. You can choose to buy sod or plugs, although that will be more costly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
Shade tolerance: Moderate (high for a warm-season grass type)
Drought tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on the cultivar
Foot traffic tolerance: High; dense growth resists damage, and spreading through stolons and rhizomes allows for quick recovery
Maintenance needs: Low to moderate
Mowing height: Typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches depending on cultivar and shade; heights below 1 inch need a reel mower (which is recommended anyway)
Potential for disease: Low to medium, depending on the cultivar
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\nA popular choice, turf-type tall fescue is a versatile year-round green grass with coarse leaves. It resists diseases and tolerates heat, drought, and foot traffic. Often, turf-type tall fescue is mixed with Kentucky bluegrass for its strong qualities.
\n\n\n\nOf course, no grass can withstand stress 100 percent of the time. If you want your turf-type tall fescue to recover from damage easily, get variety with rhizomes.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Bunches, occasionally rhizomes
Shade tolerance: Moderate
Drought tolerance: Very high
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance needs: Best to mow weekly; requires minimal fertilization; water as needed or your lawn will go dormant
Mowing height: 3 to 4 inches
Potential for disease: Low
![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fine-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nFine fescue grasses come in many varieties and are known for their fine texture and shade tolerance. They’re often mixed with other grass types for a more diverse and resilient lawn, but they can also be used as standalone grasses. Some varieties of fine fescue are suitable for infertile and acidic soils.
\n\n\n\nTake note that fine fescue doesn’t handle foot traffic well, so you might want to look at alternative options if you have a busy lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Depends on the variant (most variants grow in bunches, but creeping red fescue uses rhizomes)
Shade tolerance: High
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: Low
Maintenance needs: Mow every 2-3 weeks until growth slows in the summer; fertilize 2-4 times a year; aerate once a year
Mowing height: 2.5 to 4 inches; the grass is slow-growing, so taller heights may be preferable
Potential for disease: Moderate
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass forms a dark green turf that thrives under full sun and self-repairs if it’s damaged. This grass type is popular throughout the country for its dense, carpet-like appearance. However, it’s especially common in the Northern half of the United States where it grows best.
\n\n\n\nNote that the grass often struggles against diseases and pests. It also faces problems growing in poor soil, excessive heat, and shade. That’s why it’s often mixed with other grass types. Homeowners should keep in mind that Kentucky bluegrass also grows slowly and has shallow roots that need frequent watering.
\n\n\n\n
Classification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Rhizomes (underground stems)
Shade tolerance: Tolerates partial shade, but prefers full sun
Drought tolerance: High but long periods of drought will lead to dormancy
Foot traffic tolerance: High in colder weather, lower in warmer seasons
Maintenance needs: Provide an inch of water weekly; mow every 5-7 days; fertilize 1-3 times a year
Mowing height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches
Potential for disease: Moderate to high; susceptible to diseases such as necrotic ring spots and rusts
Centipedegrass requires less water and fertilizer than other grasses. That means less work for you but also fewer chemicals getting into the environment. Additionally, centipedegrass grows slowly, reducing the need for frequent mowing.
Turf-type tall fescue can stay green throughout the year.
If you have trees or hardscapes, consider planting centipedegrass or Zoysiagrass. They’re shade-tolerant grasses that can grow in areas with less sunlight.
Busy lawn? No problem. From warm-season Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass to cool-season turf-type tall fescue (which can be mixed with Kentucky bluegrass if you prefer), you have a number of options.
Choosing the right grass type is just the beginning of making the most of your Tennessee lawn. Proper watering, fertilization, and maintenance practices are also critical. Make sure that you take the steps to take care of your lawn properly.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add a little extra vibrancy to your yard, you may be in the market for plants. Be sure to look into planting natives. Native plants naturally grow in Tennessee’s climate, meaning that they’re easier to take care of and better for the environment and local wildlife.
\n\n\n\nIf you need a hand, why not contact a Tennessee lawn care pro?
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Stephen Yeargin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
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