{"componentChunkName":"component---src-templates-post-post-js","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/lawn-mowing-and-maintenance-in-dfw/","result":{"pageContext":{"wordpressPost":{"id":"fcb936b6-38d0-50aa-aaad-053f1a4f2bce","slug":"lawn-mowing-and-maintenance-in-dfw","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/lawn-mowing-and-maintenance-in-dfw/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"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":"June 20th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>A maintenance-free lawn doesn’t exist in North Texas. That’s the first thing to keep in mind when you think about your yard in Dallas or Plano or Irving. Because the growing season is so long, you’ll be putting work into it even longer than homeowners in cooler climates. But it’s not complicated! Here are some [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>A maintenance-free lawn doesn’t exist in North Texas. That’s the first thing to keep in mind when you think about your yard in Dallas or Plano or Irving. Because the growing season is so long, you’ll be putting work into it even longer than homeowners in cooler climates. But it’s not complicated! Here are some tips to lawn mowing and maintenance in DFW. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lawn Mowing</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The key here is not to “scalp” your grass, meaning cut it too short. Scalping lets precious water evaporate more quickly in the Texas heat. It also stresses your grass, leaving it vulnerable to diseases and pests. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your lawn is most likely a warm-season variety like St. Augustine, Zoysia grass, buffalo grass or Bermudagrass. Your proper grass length depends on the variety you have. Experts recommend St. Augustine be cut 2 to 2.5 inches tall. The recommended height for common Bermuda is 1.25 to 1.5 inches tall. Zoysias should be between 2 to 3 inches tall, and buffalograss is the longest, with a recommended height of 3 to 4 inches. Look to mow the lawn about once a week during the hot season. Pro tip: mow in a different direction each time. This helps the blades of the grass stand up straight and prevent ruts. The grass will most likely be dormant from about November to early March.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Leave the Clippings</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/vHG1MducY0LBd579jO3HRCClmLbPu7eobddVBdtvyq6LejozJUEYiFyff7lSvOMfM_exP_OHNp5DTONuAVImxUt4WWvqa13zi45JPLA3-I6Kwt2i7W6nJCa-bQkGcv9viKxaH9ig\" alt=\"\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t bag those clippings. The clippings add vital nutrients back into the soil as they decompose. As long as you mow at the proper height, the clippings will break down quickly.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maintain Your Mower</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/m2Wtz5jwFf22ZXivUFhpE-1iaG18dF-6vgvFu989Rw1OWjAzJpsrGdcTOa7wnmx-rd71k5RQawVbX6rMd4FhLnpSS49uswbCOADxQMo6nNjIbLj39nrms5p43_QvX-3natJmgqQt\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><a href=\"https://i.ytimg.com/vi/SQEODK1Qgv4/maxresdefault.jpg\">Source</a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<p>Sharpen the blades, change the oil and spark plugs once a year. Dull blades will tear the grass instead of cutting it, leaving it susceptible to disease and pests.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weed and Feed</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some make a ritual out of applying weed and feed to their lawns every Super Bowl Sunday in February. This counts as “early spring” in Texas, and the grass is beginning to green up. That’s when it needs feeding. The rule of thumb is generally between February and April. This is also the time to stop weeds in their tracks &#8212; before they ever get a firm root in your yard. You can also find weed and feed mixtures that <a href=\"https://www.scotts.com/en-us/library/weed-control/weed-feed-prevents-fire-ants-scotts-turf-builder-southern-triple-action\">contain fire ant killer</a>, to keep the nasty little insects from digging up mounds of dirt in your lawn and biting you. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watering</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/YptMC0oZEqtKFy16WxPQfFmKZxvkrn2ezC8E6g2hLw1UorINVbEqlEWsbuFmtq1VRcm8Lj7A5etV3aw4Rx0lq8Imaxp-LHNfyA8g9SNKFhvVOW-JWV9udULXgXxH7RSKY-hpAHP3\" alt=\"\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<p>Your lawn needs a good long drink every five to ten days, generally. Keep that in mind before you overwater the grass. Also, your city probably has ordinances or recommendations on <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/watering-restrictions-dallas-irving-plano/\">what days you can water </a>and what time. Use your sprinkler two times a week, and don&#8217;t water between 10 am and 6 pm. In most cases, drip irrigation, soaker hoses, and hand watering are allowed any day of the week. Ideally, you water early in the morning &#8212; giving your grass a good drink of water, but allowing the droplets on the blades to evaporate over the daytime hours. This lowers your lawn’s risk of fungus problems.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to a lush, green lawn in north Texas is consistency over the course of the long, hot growing season. If you begin tending to it on a regular basis when it first begins to green, and maintain it through the triple-digit temperatures of the summer, and into the fall, it will reward you with beautiful, emerald green grass. </p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Do you want to know more about what plants to grow in DFW? Visit our <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">Dallas, TX lawn care page</a> for more guides and additional information.</em></p>\n\n\n\n<p><br></p>\n","title":"Lawn Mowing and Maintenance in Dallas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.6204379562043796,"src":"/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/7e2e0/lawn-mowing.jpg","srcSet":"/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/107df/lawn-mowing.jpg 320w,\n/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/293e9/lawn-mowing.jpg 500w,\n/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/7e2e0/lawn-mowing.jpg 666w","srcWebp":"/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/a66c8/lawn-mowing.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/67b76/lawn-mowing.webp 320w,\n/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/8df11/lawn-mowing.webp 500w,\n/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/a66c8/lawn-mowing.webp 666w","sizes":"(max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Mowing and Maintenance in Dallas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want the grass to be greener on your side of the fence? Check out our guide to lawn mowing and maintenance in DFW for tips on creating a lush lawn."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"7a86cbfc-ca76-5958-bd48-05ffc5685e09","slug":"dallas-lawn-watering-guide-for-spring-summer","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/dallas-lawn-watering-guide-for-spring-summer/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jackie Greene is a blogger, gardener, and nutrition enthusiast. She enjoys creating organic meals for family and friends using the fresh ingredients she produces from her backyard homestead.","name":"Jackie Greene","id":"fb5923e1-833b-5d9b-808e-ded0e62c0bc4","path":"/author/jackiegreene/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c1121209a3ebfbe0a7e941d102b2971?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"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":"April 3rd, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Dallas spring weather is sometimes all over the place. Unpredictably there will be excessive heat sprinkled with freezing temperatures and sometimes even a tornado will pass by. Luckily the grasses that are most popular in Dallas can put up with these different types of weather. Arguably, the most important part of lawn care is watering. [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Dallas spring weather is sometimes all over the place. Unpredictably there will be excessive heat sprinkled with freezing temperatures and sometimes even a tornado will pass by. Luckily the grasses that are most popular in Dallas can put up with these different types of weather. Arguably, the most important part of lawn care is watering. It can be mundane, but it is important to have proper watering techniques. Here we have made a guide to watering specific to the Dallas area. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much water does my lawn need in Dallas, TX?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Watering a lawn, while it may sound easy, can be daunting when the results of the lawn are not up to par with expectations. The recommended amount of water per week in north texas is about an inch. Take into consideration the amount of sunlight your lawn receives. If the lawn is fully exposed to the sun and has no shade, these lawns will need more water to survive. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Under watering grass is probably the most prevalent prognosis in Texas, however in Dallas there are quick outbursts of rain that can add to over watering, especially if your lawn has not had proper watering techniques. Here are some signs that you are overwatering or underwatering. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens when you overwater your lawn?</h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Thatch Build Up</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Thatch b<g class=\"gr_ gr_22 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace\" id=\"22\" data-gr-id=\"22\">uild</g> up </strong>is a natural occurrence in lawns that if exceeds ¾ inch it needs to be removed. The <g class=\"gr_ gr_8 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace\" id=\"8\" data-gr-id=\"8\">build up</g> is a combination of dead grass and debris that can suffocate the living grass. <g class=\"gr_ gr_6 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del\" id=\"6\" data-gr-id=\"6\">Over watering</g> can prevent the natural breakdown of the thatch by other organisms <br></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Fungus and Disease</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fungus and disease </strong>can arise when a lawn has been over watered. If there is any stagnant water in a lawn there is an opportunity for a <g class=\"gr_ gr_107 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep\" id=\"107\" data-gr-id=\"107\">fungus</g> to grow. The prime example of fungi is when mushrooms begin growing. If this happens in your lawn make sure to water less. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Weeds</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weeds </strong>of certain strains<strong> </strong>can thrive over thatch build up. Making sure that the lawn stays dense and free of additional water will promote healthy lawn growth and less weeds. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if you don&#8217;t water your lawn enough?</h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Stress</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Stress </strong>is a factor in any lawn, however, when stress begins to affect the lawn in a noticeable way, this is an indicator the grass is under<g class=\"gr_ gr_6 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace\" id=\"6\" data-gr-id=\"6\">watered</g>. For example, if a footprint remains in the grass instead of springing back up the grass needs some extra water. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Discoloration</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Discoloration </strong>will turn the lawn from green to brown or yellow. This can be an indicator that the grass has caught a disease as well. Watching the color of the grass closely will ensure the lawn doesn’t get to this point. Remember,  overly exposed patches of grass may need a little more water than shaded sections.   <br></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Clump Growth</h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Clump growth</strong> will indicate the lawn is struggling to survive. There will be several patches of dead grass with small sections of green. This stage is still salvageable, but may need an additional reseed and fertilizer to completely fix the problem.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the best time of day to water your lawn?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To avoid overwatering and to ensure the conservation of our water supply, the time of day matters. The optimum time to water is in the morning between the hours of 7 am to 10 am. During daylight savings, the watering schedule should be mended to around the time the sun rises. &nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option A: Watering Mid-Day</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Watering when the yard is fully exposed to the sun is a waste of water. The water will quickly evaporate during these times and not allow the grass to soak it all up. If only some water get through to the roots the roots will most likely become shallow and you will eventually have to water more to keep the grass green. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option B: Watering in the Evening </h3>\n\n\n\n<p>On the opposite spectrum watering in the evening can lead to over watering the lawn. The morning sun has the ability to evaporate excess water on the lawn ensuring the perfect amount of water gets soaked up by the grass. In the evening the water has nowhere to go but to sit on the lawn. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the best lawn watering technique for a strong, deep root system?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The best technique to use when watering the yard is deep infrequent watering.</strong> This type of schedule aligns with the<a href=\"https://savedallaswater.com/\"> Dallas Watering Restrictions</a> as well. Frequent watering with less water will cause the grass to have shallow roots. Infrequent watering will also allow the yard to be more durable against drought, below freezing temperatures, and other weather. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the Dallas Watering Restrictions in 2019?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a maximum <a href=\"https://savedallaswater.com/resource-center/twice-weekly-watering-schedule/\">two day a week</a> watering restriction.  If your house address ends in an even number you can water on Sundays and Thursdays. If your house ends in an odd number you are allotted Saturdays and Wednesdays. If there is no address number where you reside you can water on Sundays and Thursdays. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Still looking for more lawn care information? Visit our <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">Dallas, TX lawn care</a> page for more tips n&#8217; tricks.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><strong>Top photo:</strong> Flickr // jean-louis plamondon</em></p>\n","title":"The #1 Dallas Lawn Watering Guide for Spring/Summer 2019","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4981273408239701,"src":"/static/cf8e2cc4354db8c692966a611cccbc94/f2cbb/lawn-watering-tips-for-dallas-tx.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cf8e2cc4354db8c692966a611cccbc94/107df/lawn-watering-tips-for-dallas-tx.jpg 320w,\n/static/cf8e2cc4354db8c692966a611cccbc94/293e9/lawn-watering-tips-for-dallas-tx.jpg 500w,\n/static/cf8e2cc4354db8c692966a611cccbc94/f2cbb/lawn-watering-tips-for-dallas-tx.jpg 800w","srcWebp":"/static/cf8e2cc4354db8c692966a611cccbc94/98a65/lawn-watering-tips-for-dallas-tx.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cf8e2cc4354db8c692966a611cccbc94/67b76/lawn-watering-tips-for-dallas-tx.webp 320w,\n/static/cf8e2cc4354db8c692966a611cccbc94/8df11/lawn-watering-tips-for-dallas-tx.webp 500w,\n/static/cf8e2cc4354db8c692966a611cccbc94/98a65/lawn-watering-tips-for-dallas-tx.webp 800w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The #1 Dallas Lawn Watering Guide for Spring/Summer 2019 | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"c0f4a810-4ba4-50d7-9309-a941ec9f74aa","slug":"best-native-plants-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/best-native-plants-dallas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 20th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Dallas is home to over 350 parks and 160 miles of nature trails. Residents love the outdoors, stopping by famous food trucks at Klyde Warren Park after a relaxing afternoon strolling around Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or White Rock Lake. It is easy to invite some Texas nature into your landscape design by filling [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Dallas is home to over 350 parks and 160 miles of nature trails. Residents love the outdoors, stopping by famous food trucks at Klyde Warren Park after a relaxing afternoon strolling around Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or White Rock Lake. It is easy to invite some Texas nature into your landscape design by filling your yard with Dallas-native plants.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native plants offer many landscaping benefits, including:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Native plants support a diverse ecosystem, providing food and shelter for local wildlife, birds, and insects.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They are acclimated to the dry climate and require less water.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They are low-maintenance, surviving potential Texas frost, local insects, and disease.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Native plants help promote a healthier Texas ecosystem. Check out these 11 native plants for Dallas to help you plan your new backyard oasis.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#11-Native-Plants-for-Your-Dallas-Yard\">11 Native Plants for Your Dallas Yard</a></strong>\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#1.-Texas-Bluebonnet-(Lupinus-texensis)\">Texas Bluebonnet</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#2.-Prairie-Verbena-(Glandularia-bipinnatifida)\">Prairie Verbena</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#3.-Coral-Honeysuckle-(Lonicera-sempervirens)\">Coral Honeysuckle</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Cenizo\">Cenizo</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Scarlet-Sage\">Scarlet Sage</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Pavonia\">Pavonia</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Turk’s-Cap\">Turk’s Cap</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Wine-Cup\">Wine Cup</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Cedar-Sedge\">Cedar Sedge</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Golden-Groundsel\">Golden Groundsel</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Mexican-Plum\">Mexican Plum</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#How-to-Choose-Native-Plants-for-Your-Dallas-Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Dallas Landscape&nbsp;</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Native Dallas Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Native-Plants-in-Dallas\">Where to Find Native Plants in Dallas</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-Native-Plants-for-Your-Dallas-Yard\">11 Native Plants for Your Dallas Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1.-Texas-Bluebonnet-(Lupinus-texensis)\">1. Texas Bluebonnet <em>(Lupinus texensis)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bluebonnets.jpg\" alt=\"Field of Texas Bluebonnet with green grass\n\" class=\"wp-image-12140\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bluebonnets.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bluebonnets-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bluebonnets-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bluebonnets-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bluebonnets-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Bluebonnets<br>Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.pexels.com/photo/field-of-texas-bluebonnet-998065/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have ever driven down a Texas highway and seen families posing amongst wildflowers, chances are good it was a field of bluebonnets<em>. </em><a href=\"https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/wildseed/39/39.5.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Texas bluebonnet</a> is a native Texas annual and the state flower of Texas. Violet-blue flowers protrude in densely packed clusters from a central spike with a white tip inviting beneficial pollinators like butterflies and moths to your garden.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bluebonnets thrive in the Texas spring, blooming from March to May. These pretty wildflowers make great additions to hanging baskets, planters, flower beds, and more. They prefer well-drained, loose soil and are a fan of full sun and minimal water.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>12-24 inches tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Annual</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>N/A</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Prefers sloped, well-draining alkaline soil&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant, prefers to dry out between waterings&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic to humans and animals if ingested&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2.-Prairie-Verbena-(Glandularia-bipinnatifida)\">2. Prairie Verbena (<em>Glandularia bipinnatifida)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Verbena.jpg\" alt=\"pink prairie verbena flowers with green leaves\" class=\"wp-image-12141\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Verbena.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Verbena-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Verbena-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Verbena-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Verbena-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Prairie Verbena<br>Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Glandularia_bipinnatifida_Riippaverbena_Rautayrtti_I9759_C.JPG\" target=\"_blank\">Anneli Salo</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://npsot.org/wp/collincounty/2021/04/12/prairie-verbena/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Prairie Verbena</a>, or “Little Purple One,” is another highway beauty and Texas wildflower growing in grassy prairies. It is a short flower with a long blooming season from March to October. Purple flowers bloom in clusters of five amongst medium-green leaves.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prairie verbenas work great in low-maintenance Dallas landscaping thanks to their low irrigation needs. The “Little Purple One” attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees and is deer-resistant.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>1 foot</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>N/A</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3.-Coral-Honeysuckle-(Lonicera-sempervirens)\">3. Coral Honeysuckle (<em>Lonicera sempervirens</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"575\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12142\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle-300x216.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle-768x552.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle-480x345.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Coral Honeysuckle<br>Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lonicera_sempervirens_-_Coral_honeysuckle_02.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Zeynel Cebeci</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Often found climbing the woods and stream banks lining Dallas trails, <a href=\"https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/ornamentals/nativeshrubs/lonicerasemper.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">coral honeysuckle</a> is an evergreen clumping vine. In Texas landscaping, you can find it crawling across flower beds or along trellises, walls, and fences.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The dark, shiny leaves give way to trumpet-shaped red-orange flower clusters from spring to fall, and the vine produces clusters of bright red berries from September to October. Coral honeysuckle attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators thanks to its vibrant flowers and fruit.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Vine</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>3-18 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Evergreen to semi-evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need weekly watering during dry spells</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic to humans and animals if ingested&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Cenizo\">4. Cenizo <em>(Leucophyllum frutescens)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cenizo.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12143\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cenizo.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cenizo-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cenizo-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cenizo-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cenizo-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Cenizo<br>Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/micklpickl/3590101331\" target=\"_blank\">micklpickl</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cenizo, or <a href=\"https://www.centraltexasgardener.org/resource/cenizo/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Texas sage</a>, is a flowering shrub that loves dry conditions and is extremely heat-tolerant. It prefers full sun and comes in a variety of colors. The low-maintenance perennial does not respond well to pruning, making it a great low-maintenance option. Most Texas sage shrubs are gray-green with light purple flowers that bloom from spring to fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>8 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>N/A</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Prefers well-drained alkaline soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant; low watering needs</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Scarlet-Sage\">5. Scarlet Sage (<em>Salvia coccinea)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage.jpg\" alt=\"red scarlet sage flowers with green leaves\" class=\"wp-image-12144\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Scarlet Sage<br>Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.publicdomainpictures.net/en/view-image.php?image=323067&amp;picture=scarlet-sage-salvia-close-up\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PublicDomainPictures</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=saco5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scarlet sage</a> is another deer-resistant plant for your Dallas landscape. Hummingbirds and butterflies love the bright red tubular flowers set in whorls around a center stem. This herbaceous perennial blooms from July to October and most reseeds in frost-free areas. Interestingly, it is the only U.S. native sage with red flowers.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Flower subshrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>1-3 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Annual, sometimes perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>N/A</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Prefers well-drained sandy soil or gravel&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Low toxicity if ingested, not considered poisonous to animals </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Pavonia\">6. Pavonia (<em>Pavonia lasiopetala</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pavonia.jpg\" alt=\"pink pavonia flower with green leaves\" class=\"wp-image-12145\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pavonia.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pavonia-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pavonia-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pavonia-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Pavonia<br>Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1607880\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=pala13\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pavonia</a>, or rock rose, loves well-draining rocky soil but adapts well to Texas homes and landscapes. It is a versatile shrub with a long blooming period that grows well in full sun or partial shade.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The low-maintenance shrub loves dry conditions, reducing irrigation needs. It has a woody base with light green heart-shaped leaves and small pink flowers resembling hibiscus blooms. Rock roses tolerate frequent pruning to promote fresh growth and attract pollinators.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>1.5-4 feet tall and 3 feet wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Deciduous to semi-evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Prefers well-drained sandy, loam, or limestone soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant with low watering requirements&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:&nbsp; </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Turk’s-Cap\">7. Turk’s Cap (<em>Malvaviscus drummondii</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>  </p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Turks-Cap.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12146\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Turks-Cap.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Turks-Cap-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Turks-Cap-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Turks-Cap-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Turks-Cap-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Turk’s Cap<br>Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Turkcap_(Malvaviscus_arboreus_var._drummondii)_photographed_in_San_Jacinto_County,_Texas,_USA_(16_August_2014).jpg\" target=\"_blank\">William Farr</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>North Texas favorite, <a href=\"https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/ornamentals/nativeshrubs/malvaviscusdrum.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Turk’s cap</a>, is a versatile flowering shrub found in many habitats. It tolerates a wide spectrum of sunlight availability, including full sun to full shade. The bright red flowers never fully open and resemble upside-down turbans.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hummingbirds love the flowers and mealy fruit produced by Turk’s cap, and the plants are crucial to their migration. The perennial blooms from mid-summer into fall.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Small to medium shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>2-3 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide, can reach up to 9 feet tall&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Deciduous, semi-evergreen, or evergreen depending on location</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to shade, prefers partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Adaptable;<strong> </strong>prefers well-drained, moist soil of sand, loam, clay, or limestone</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant; requires weekly watering during extreme dry periods</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; fruit and flowers are edible and used for medicinal purposes throughout Mexico</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Wine-Cup\">8. Wine Cup (Callirhoe involucrata)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wine-Cup.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12147\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wine-Cup.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wine-Cup-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wine-Cup-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wine-Cup-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Wine cup<br>Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Winecup_%28Callirhoe_involucrata%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wing-Chi Poon</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/wildseed/winecup.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wine cup</a> is a flowering vine used as ground cover in rock gardens and flower beds. The drought-tolerant perennial also grows well in containers and hanging baskets where it cascades over the edge. Wine cups require frequent pruning to promote growth.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its unique blooms close each evening, and the dark purple, wine-colored flowers bloom from March to June. The flowering vine goes dormant during hot summers and needs well-drained soil. Wine cups attract butterflies and are the larval host plant for gray hairstreak butterflies in the Fort Worth area.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Flowering vine</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>8-12 inches tall and 3 feet wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>N/A</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Prefers well-drained sandy or rocky soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant; prefers regular moisture</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Cedar-Sedge\">9. Cedar Sedge (<em>Carex planostachys</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sedge.jpg\" alt=\"picture of green sedge near water \" class=\"wp-image-12154\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sedge.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sedge-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sedge-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sedge-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sedge-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Cedar sedge<br>Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MADA2UhShS0-sedge-/\" target=\"_blank\">konstantniks</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=capl3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cedar sedge</a> is an ornamental grass found in many Texas landscapes. The clumping grass loves well-drained soil with partial shade. It tolerates light foot traffic and requires infrequent mowing. The perennial is often used as ornamental ground cover and accent plants.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Ornamental grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>6 inches tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>N/A</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant; low watering needs&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Golden-Groundsel\">10. Golden Groundsel (<em>Packera aurea</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"571\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Golden-Groundsel.jpg\" alt=\"yellow flowers with green leaves\" class=\"wp-image-12148\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Golden-Groundsel.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Golden-Groundsel-300x214.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Golden-Groundsel-768x548.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Golden-Groundsel-480x343.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Golden Groundsel<br>Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/douglas_mcgrady/32168760585\" target=\"_blank\">Doug McGrady</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PAAU3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Golden groundsel</a>, commonly known as golden ragwort, is a crawling ground cover with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and heart-shaped foliage. The perennial blooms from April to June in North Texas and the semi-evergreen plant typically survives the winter.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Golden groundsel loves shade and is deer-resistant. Its golden blooms attract beneficial pollinators, supporting a diverse ecosystem.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Ground cover</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>1-2 feet tall and 1 foot wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Semi-evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Partial shade to full shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low to moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Low toxicity to humans or animals if touched or ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mexican-Plum\">11. Mexican Plum (<em>Prunus mexicana</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mexican-Plum.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12149\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mexican-Plum.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mexican-Plum-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mexican-Plum-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mexican-Plum-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mexican-Plum-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Mexican Plum<br>Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/charkes/5499446603/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Charles Willgren</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/ornamentals/natives/PRUNUSMEXICANA.HTM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mexican Plum</a> is a popular landscaping tree in Dallas. It is the first tree to bloom in March, signaling to all Texans spring has arrived. The small- to medium-sized tree has peeling, striated bark and clusters of fragrant white flowers. Purple fruit ripens in the fall and is enjoyed by humans and animals alike.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The small fruit tree is drought-tolerant and a favorite amongst texas pollinators. The sprawling branches make the Mexican plum a magnificent shade tree to add to your landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>15-30 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought-tolerant with medium-low water requirements</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p> </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"How-to-Choose-Native-Plants-for-Your-Dallas-Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Dallas Yard&nbsp;</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>All native plants have specific needs, and not all native plants will grow well in your yard. Be sure to select plants suitable for the soil, sun exposure, and watering capabilities of your landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dallas-Fort Worth sits in <a href=\"https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/plantanswers/fallgarden/zones.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA Hardiness Zone</a> 8, indicating the coldest annual temperature is 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Texas native plants are cold-hardy to the minimum temperature in Dallas’ hardiness zone. Keep your zone in mind when selecting non-native plants for your landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Native Dallas Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">  <br/>When should I plant native flowers and shrubs in Dallas? </strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Most flowers and shrubs should be planted after the last frost in late March. Check your local weather forecast before introducing new plants to your yard. </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">    <br/>Why are native plants important? </strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Native plants support the Texas ecosystem. They support beneficial insects like butterflies, bees, and birds. They are drought tolerant and adapted to the clay soil found in most Texas yards, making them easier to grow and more beneficial to the local environment. </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">  <br/>When should I water my native plants?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Early morning or evening are the best times to water your native plants. Winds are calmer and temperatures are lower, so there is less risk of water loss from evaporation or scorching from the sun. Additionally, foliage needs time to dry before nightfall. Wet foliage can lead to disease and rot.  <br/> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Native-Plants-in-Dallas\">Where to Find Native Plants in Dallas</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Chances are good you already have native plants in your yard or around your neighborhood. If you want to introduce more plants into your Dallas landscape, be sure to source your plants ethically and never transplant them from the wild.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out these local nurseries in the Dallas area recommended by the <a href=\"https://npsot.org/wp/collincounty/plants/dfw-native-plant-nurseries/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Native Plant Society of Texas</a>:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://brucemillernursery.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bruce Miller Nurseries</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fannintreefarm.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fannin Tree Farm</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meador’s Garden Center</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https://www.westongardens.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Weston Gardens</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Filling your yard with native plants is only one step in your landscaping design project. Be sure to consider other low-maintenance landscaping ideas to complement your new native plants and check out the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/best-grass-types-2/\">best grass types</a> for Dallas for a healthy lawn.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you are ready to turn over the hard work and lawn upkeep to a professional, let wiikilawn connect you with a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">local landscaping pro</a> in your area.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https://pixabay.com/nl/photos/vlaggen-texas-vlag-ons-vlag-1188055/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay</a></p>\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for Dallas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/1789c/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/107df/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 320w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/293e9/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 500w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/f2cbb/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 800w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/1789c/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 960w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/c26c2/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/1dd6e/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/67b76/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 320w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/8df11/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 500w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/98a65/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 800w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/1dd6e/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 960w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/3cc96/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for Dallas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Check out these Texas native plants for Dallas to find heat-tolerant plants that thrive in the sun, plus information on where to buy native plants locally."}}},{"node":{"id":"a210566d-8556-544b-abf9-97ed52f969ca","slug":"the-worst-bugs-in-dallas-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/the-worst-bugs-in-dallas-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"},{"id":"f47748ec-2ca2-5e01-9cbd-e56dc7932c0d","name":"Zone 8a","count":3,"path":"/category/zone-8a/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Texas is one of the most bug-diverse locations in the U.S. and home to almost 30,000 species of insects. Thanks to “Big D’s’ subtropical climate, 40 inches of annual rain, and average daily temperatures around 78 degrees Fahrenheit, the Metroplex is a bug’s paradise. We compiled a list of the 11 worst bugs in Dallas, [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Texas is one of the most bug-diverse locations in the U.S. and home to almost 30,000 species of insects. Thanks to “Big D’s’ subtropical climate, 40 inches of annual rain, and average daily temperatures around 78 degrees Fahrenheit, the Metroplex is a bug’s paradise. We compiled a list of the 11 worst bugs in Dallas, including tips on how to get rid of them.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Bad\">Why are Bugs Bad for Your Dallas Lawn?</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Control\">Ways to Control Bugs on Your Dallas Lawn</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Worst\">11 Worst Bugs in Dallas</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Acrobat\">Acrobat Ants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Bed\">Bed Bugs</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Carpenter\">Carpenter Ants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Chinch\">Chinch Bugs</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Cockroaches\">Cockroaches</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Fire\">Fire Ants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Fleas\">Fleas</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Mosquitoes\">Mosquitoes</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Spiders\">Spiders</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Termites\">Termites</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Wasps\">Wasps</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#FAQ\">FAQ About the Worst Bugs in Dallas</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bad\">Why are Bugs Bad for Your Dallas Yard?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Insects are vital to the well-being of our ecosystems. Unfortunately, that does not mean we want them in our homes or infesting our garden plants. While many insects are beneficial or neutral, some species are destructive and should be controlled.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some reasons why pest control is important:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Pest control protects your health and food supply.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insects and rodents carry venom, bacteria, and diseases including West Nile virus, Lyme disease, encephalitis, and salmonellosis.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pests contain allergens, triggering asthma attacks and respiratory conditions.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some insects destroy structures causing instability.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some pests cause painful bites and stings.&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Control\">Ways to Control Bugs on Your Dallas Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two ways to control pests in your lawn and around your home: chemical treatments and organic methods. Organic methods are the safest treatment options, but these methods aren’t always the best and many are ineffective. Be sure to identify the type of pest you are dealing with before selecting your removal method.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is always advisable to hire a professional pest control company to perform quarterly treatments inside and outside of your home. These methods are the safest and most effective for your family and pets.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Organic Treatment Options</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Experts agree home pest control is necessary, and many Dallas-Fort Worth critters can be prevented. Organic pest control has come a long way and is ‌safer than chemical treatment options for your pets and children. However, it is also typically less effective.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out some available organic pest control options:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pyrethrin: </strong>This plant-based insecticide deters many pests with its scent, killing on contact.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Neem oil: </strong>Use this tree-derived poison to inhibit the growth cycles of insects and limit their populations.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spinosad</strong>: Spray this natural bacteria on plants, including fruits and vegetables to kill insects.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Diatomaceous earth: </strong>This dry pest control method made from algae kills pests on contact. Unfortunately, it affects beneficial insects like butterflies, honey bees, and ladybugs.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Heat treatment: </strong>Professional pest control method for fleas, bed bugs, and other large infestations.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pest Control Chemical Treatments</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Chemical pest control treatments are more effective than organic techniques. They control rodents and insects, stopping the spread of dangerous bacteria and diseases.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some popular chemical treatments include:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Granulated insecticide: </strong>Sprinkle this fast-acting insecticide near nests and scavengers’ food sources.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Repellent pesticide: </strong>Fast-acting insecticides that kill on contact and disrupt pheromone trails.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Non-repellent pesticide</strong>: Slow-acting insecticides that cross over surfaces, infesting nests and maintaining pheromone trails for maximum effectiveness.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bait: </strong>Bait with integrated traps works for indoor and outdoor pest control to attract and trap insects and rodents.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rodenticide: </strong>High-toxicity pesticides designed to kill rodents. These are best left to professionals. They kill rats, mice, squirrels, and other small animals, including dogs and cats.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fogging: </strong>Also known as bug bombs, foggers release aerosolized propellant insecticides to fumigate a contained area.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Worst\">11 Worst Bugs in Dallas</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Acrobat\">1. Acrobat Ants (<em>Crematogaster ashmeadi</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"538\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crematogaster_ashmeadi_casent0103762_profile_1.jpg\" alt=\"A blackish gray colored acrobat ant\" class=\"wp-image-13204\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crematogaster_ashmeadi_casent0103762_profile_1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crematogaster_ashmeadi_casent0103762_profile_1-300x202.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crematogaster_ashmeadi_casent0103762_profile_1-768x516.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crematogaster_ashmeadi_casent0103762_profile_1-480x323.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Crematogaster_ashmeadi_casent0103762_profile_1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">April Nobile</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Acrobat Ants?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, <a href=\"https://extensionentomology.tamu.edu/insects/acrobat-ant/\">acrobat ants</a> stray far from the circus into your Dallas yard. These reddish-brown and black ants grow to ⅛ inch and have distinctive, heart-shaped abdomens. They emit an odor when threatened and raise their abdomen over their head in a feat of acrobatics. Omnivorous colonies of a few thousand members eat honeydew from aphids, dead or living insects, and mealybugs.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of an Acrobat Ant Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Acrobat ants rarely nest in the open or enter homes. They love moisture and live under rocks, logs, trees, and wood piles. The most obvious sign of an infestation is an ant trail. These foragers travel up to 100 feet from their nest in search of resources.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Acrobat Ants</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The easiest way to prevent these moisture-loving pests is to eliminate sources of standing water, keep your yard clear of fallen branches and logs, and store firewood at least 5 inches from the ground.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Acrobat Ants</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are unlucky and find these predatory ants around your home, opt for a foam insecticide sprayed directly on the nest indoors or a non-repellent pesticide outdoors.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Crematogaster</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Moist areas under rocks, logs, trees, or wood piles</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Low; emit an odor when threatened, occasionally bites when disturbed</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Repellent and non-repellent pesticides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bed\">2. Bed Bugs (<em>Cimicidae</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/adult-bed-bug-cimex-lectularius-ee47a5-1.jpg\" alt=\"A reddish brown colored bedbug insect\" class=\"wp-image-13211\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/adult-bed-bug-cimex-lectularius-ee47a5-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/adult-bed-bug-cimex-lectularius-ee47a5-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/adult-bed-bug-cimex-lectularius-ee47a5-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/adult-bed-bug-cimex-lectularius-ee47a5-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/adult-bed-bug-cimex-lectularius-ee47a5-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://picryl.com/media/adult-bed-bug-cimex-lectularius-ee47a5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Picryl</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Bed Bugs?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Few bugs make your skin crawl by mere mention like bed bugs. These indoor vampiric pests are small and brownish-red with flat, oval-shaped bodies and six legs. They grow to ¼ inch and feed on blood, preferably human blood.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>These pests are hitchhikers and have no environmental preferences aside from the presence of humans. <a href=\"https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/biting-stinging/bed-bugs/\">Bed bugs</a> enter your home through clothes, belongings, and luggage. They are nocturnal and most active from April to November, hiding in mattresses, box springs, baseboards, and outlets.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Bed Bugs</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevent bed bugs by keeping your luggage and personal belongings off the ground while traveling. Do not purchase used furniture or mattresses and wash used clothing immediately.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Bed Bugs</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you suspect bed bugs have infested your home, contact a local exterminator. Professional removal is the best way to eradicate a bed bug infestation, and many experts rely on organic heat treatments.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Cimicidae</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Anywhere where humans live</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Low; but can cause red rashes that can lead to secondary infections in some people</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Professional pest control services, including heat treatments</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Carpenter\">3. Carpenter Ants (<em>Camponotus</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"480\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Camponotus_sideview_2.jpg\" alt=\"A red black carpenter ant\" class=\"wp-image-13214\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Camponotus_sideview_2.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Camponotus_sideview_2-300x180.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Camponotus_sideview_2-768x461.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Camponotus_sideview_2-480x288.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Camponotus_sideview_2.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Richard Bartz</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.5</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Carpenter Ants?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There are 14 species of carpenter ants in Texas, and the largest species is the black carpenter ant. Thankfully, these pests prefer wooded outdoor areas, including old stumps, decaying logs, and firewood. <a href=\"https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/carpenter-ant/\">Carpenter ants</a> are brown-red with black abdomens and reach up to 1⁄2 inch long.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Carpenter Ant Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>These ants can cause structural damage to homes, though it is rare. You may find them between wood shingles, siding, or fascia boards. Identify carpenter ant tunnels and nests by looking for sawdust near openings. Like acrobat ants, these omnivores forage for decaying fruits, honeydew from aphids, and live or dead insects.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Carpenter Ants</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevent carpenter ants by eliminating moisture problems and sealing cracks or openings near your foundation. Remove dead branches and trim trees away from structures.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Carpenter Ants</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Carpenter ants have chewing mouthparts and stingers. They can bite but do not sting. Remove them from your home by using a propellant foam insecticide. Similarly, use a pyrethroid insecticide outdoors to eliminate the nest and trails.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Camponotus</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Dead or decaying wood, stumps, logs, or weakened building materials</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Moderate; bites when disturbed, causes structural damage to wood&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Repellent and non-repellent pesticides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Chinch\">4. Chinch Bugs (<em>Blissus leucopterus</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"743\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_50594763067-1.jpg\" alt=\"A beautiful black colored chinch bug with white wings\" class=\"wp-image-13223\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_50594763067-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_50594763067-1-300x279.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_50594763067-1-768x713.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_50594763067-1-480x446.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_%2850594763067%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Christina Butler</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Chinch Bugs?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Chinch bugs are 3/16 inch long with black bodies and white wings. They feed on the sap of grasses, commonly occurring in bunch grasses and Dallas turfgrasses, including bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of Chinch Bug Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Watch for round, localized yellow or brown spots in your yard, typically from July to August.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Chinch Bugs</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, chinch bugs are drawn to heat, sun, and warm-season grasses. Your best defense against these nuisance pests is proper lawn maintenance, including watering, mowing, and fertilizing.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Chinch Bugs</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>DIY collect chinch bugs using a coffee can with both ends removed to create a hollow pipe. Insert the can into the soil inside the affected area. Fill the can with water and leave it for a few days. <a href=\"https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/chinch-bug/\">Chinch bugs</a> will float to the top of the can for removal. Additionally, use a granular insecticide for lawn pests.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Blissus leucopterus</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Bunch grasses and turfgrasses, including bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Low; medically harmless but capable of injuring plants and turfgrass&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Granular lawn pesticide or coffee can method</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Cockroaches\">5. Cockroaches (<em>Periplaneta</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop.jpg\" alt=\"A dark brown colored cockroach\" class=\"wp-image-13227\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Eran Finkle</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Cockroaches?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find cockroaches all over the world, and Dallas is no exception. Home to the <a href=\"https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/blattodea/american-cockroach/\">American cockroach</a>, German cockroach, and oriental cockroach, these pests have a thick shell of armor covering their oval bodies, six legs, and two long antennae. Both the American and German cockroach species have fully developed wings for flying.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Cockroach Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Cockroaches love moisture, including drains, flower beds, and mulch. They seek shelter indoors during bad weather, hiding in laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. These nuisance pests spread disease, contaminate food, emit odors, worsen allergies, and even trigger asthma attacks.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Cockroaches</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevent cockroaches around your home and yard by creating a barrier between your home and mulched beds, locking your outdoor trash can lids, sealing foundation gaps, and eliminating standing water. Keep living areas clean and vacuumed and use dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Cockroaches</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Glue traps, bait stations, and repellent pesticides are the best indoor removal methods while you can use non-repellent pesticides outdoors around your lawn.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Periplaneta</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Moist areas; drains, flower beds, mulch, laundry rooms, basements, kitchens, and bathrooms</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>High; carry diseases, contaminate food, emit odors, and trigger allergies and asthma attacks&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Glue traps, bait stations, and repellent and non-repellent pesticides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Fire\">6. Fire Ants (<em>Solenopsis</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"602\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14878801786_985ed3d160_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"A black imported fire ant\" class=\"wp-image-13229\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14878801786_985ed3d160_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14878801786_985ed3d160_c-1-300x226.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14878801786_985ed3d160_c-1-768x578.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14878801786_985ed3d160_c-1-480x361.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/adwsocial/14878801786\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Animal Diversity Web</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Fire Ants?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Fire ants are as menacing as they sound. These reddish-brown insects are only ⅜ inch long with powerful jaws that deliver painful bites and stringers full of venom. <a href=\"https://fireant.tamu.edu/manage/site/\">Fire ants</a> are aggressive and a year-round problem in the DFW area. Like carpenter and acrobat ants, they are omnivorous, eating fruit, meat, insects, earthworms, compost, outdoor pet food, and trash.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Fire Ant Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Fire ants thrive in sunny areas and open spaces. Thankfully, their nests are easy to spot on your lawn as these insects create distinct granular mounds up to 4 feet in size.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Fire Ants</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevent fire ants by covering trash cans and treating at the first signs of infestation. It is important to maintain a proper watering schedule, ensuring you do not overwater your lawn.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Fire Ants</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There is no best control method for fire ants. You can use non-repellent pesticides or granular treatments.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Solenopsis</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Sunny, open areas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>High; deliver painful bites but rarely sting</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Non-repellent pesticides and granular treatments</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Fleas\">7. Fleas (<em>Siphonaptera</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Flea.jpg\" alt=\"A dark brown colored flea\" class=\"wp-image-13233\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Flea.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Flea-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Flea-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Flea-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Flea-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Flea.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Erturac</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Fleas?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Fleas are extremely common in Dallas, usually living on your furry animal friend. These tiny, wingless insects are dark brown and the size of a speck of dirt. There are more than 300 species of fleas, and each flea can produce around 500 offspring in its lifetime.</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Flea Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Fleas enter your yard on the coats of wild animals and quickly jump from pet to human before making their way into your home. They also can find their way into your home through used furniture and clothing, but thankfully, <a href=\"https://extensionentomology.tamu.edu/publications/controlling-fleas/\">fleas</a> are mainly outdoor pests. These insects love tall grass, debris piles, and bushes.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Fleas</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevent fleas by grooming your pets, using year-round veterinary flea control, and keeping your lawn maintained. Trim bushes and shrubs and keep bird feeders away from your property.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Fleas</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The best removal method for fleas is propellant insecticide. Alternatively, topical and oral prescriptions, flea shampoo, and pet-safe sprays are available for pet infestations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Siphonaptera</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Moist, shady areas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>High; bites transmit diseases such as murine typhus, tularemia, and tungiasis</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Propellant pesticides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mosquitoes\">8. Mosquitoes (<em>Culicidae</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"601\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mosquito_Culicidae_Cradley_Herefordshire_UK.jpg\" alt=\"A black colored mosquito\" class=\"wp-image-13234\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mosquito_Culicidae_Cradley_Herefordshire_UK.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mosquito_Culicidae_Cradley_Herefordshire_UK-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mosquito_Culicidae_Cradley_Herefordshire_UK-768x577.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mosquito_Culicidae_Cradley_Herefordshire_UK-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mosquito_Culicidae_Cradley_Herefordshire_UK-480x361.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mosquito_%28Culicidae%29,_Cradley,_Herefordshire,_UK.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gailhampshire</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Mosquitoes?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Mosquitoes love Dallas’ subtropical climate. These biting insects have oval-shaped bodies, long legs, and wings. They are brownish black and females feed on human and animal blood, but the mosquito’s primary food source is plant nectar.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of Mosquito Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Mosquitoes cause itchy red bumps and spread diseases like Zika virus, encephalitis, and West Nile virus.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Mosquitoes</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevent these pests by eliminating standing water and food sources. They thrive in moist areas with a lot of flowering vegetation, including ponds, wooded areas, and near swimming pools. Limit flowering plants near your home and maintain proper yard drainage to eliminate standing water.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Mosquitoes</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Perform routine yard maintenance, cutting back overgrown vegetation. Professional pest control plans often offer add-on outdoor mosquito control. Additionally, use non-repellent insecticides to help maintain a mosquito-free yard.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Culicidae</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Moist, high-vegetation areas such as forests, ponds, and tall grasses&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>High; female bites transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, encephalitis, and Zika virus</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Non-repellent pesticides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Spiders\">9. Spiders (<em>Araneae</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fauna-invertebrate-close-up-spider-arachnid-india-443985-pxhere.com_.jpg\" alt=\"A light brown colored spider with black stripes\" class=\"wp-image-13238\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fauna-invertebrate-close-up-spider-arachnid-india-443985-pxhere.com_.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fauna-invertebrate-close-up-spider-arachnid-india-443985-pxhere.com_-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fauna-invertebrate-close-up-spider-arachnid-india-443985-pxhere.com_-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fauna-invertebrate-close-up-spider-arachnid-india-443985-pxhere.com_-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fauna-invertebrate-close-up-spider-arachnid-india-443985-pxhere.com_-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/443985\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Spiders?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Spiders catch a bad rap for being scary. These beneficial arachnids are vital to the ecosystem. They have eight legs and two distinct body regions. The most common species found in the Metroplex are black widows, <a href=\"https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/biting-stinging/others/ent-3003/\">brown recluses</a>, and wolf spiders.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Spider Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Most spider species are not a direct threat to humans. However, the brown recluse and black widow spiders are venomous. Their bites can cause serious reactions in some people.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you notice webs and have a spider infestation in your yard, it is a signal you have a larger underlying infestation. Spiders move into an area where large populations of insects live and love secluded areas to hide, like garden sheds, tall grasses, covered porches, basements, garages, and crawl spaces.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Spiders</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevent spiders by eliminating hiding places, maintaining your lawn, and reducing the number of smaller pests in your yard.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Spiders</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Knock out an indoor infestation with a repellent pesticide or use a non-repellent pesticide outdoors.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Araneae</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Adaptable; seek shelters and areas to hide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Moderate; venomous spiders can cause allergic reactions in some people</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Repellent and non-repellent pesticides</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Termites\">10. Termites (<em>Isoptera</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3049109271_68829f87c4_c-1-2.jpg\" alt=\"5-6 Termites shown in a picture\" class=\"wp-image-13239\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3049109271_68829f87c4_c-1-2.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3049109271_68829f87c4_c-1-2-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3049109271_68829f87c4_c-1-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3049109271_68829f87c4_c-1-2-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3049109271_68829f87c4_c-1-2-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jean_hort/3049109271\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jean and Fred Hort</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Termites?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Termites are beneficial insects in nature. However, once these wood-chomping social insects wander indoors or near homes, they pose a serious problem. <a href=\"https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/household/termites/\">Termites</a> live in large colonies. They are cream, yellow, or brown with elongated bodies and enormous jaws.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Termite Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Termites can cause severe structural damage if left untreated, and unfortunately, most homeowners’ insurance does not cover termite damage. These insects love moist areas such as leaking pipes, basements, foundations, and beneath decks.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent and Eliminate Termites</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The best termite prevention and control is to hire a pest control expert. A routine termite inspection and prevention plan offers peace of mind. If your termite infestation is isolated and contained to the outdoors, you can opt for a DIY solution using a termiticide, a pesticide designed specifically for termites.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Isoptera</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Dark, moist areas with minimal air exposure</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Moderate; cause structural damage</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Professional pest control and termiticide</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Wasps\">11. Wasps (<em>Vespidae</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6980305991_3209cd81a6_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"An asian paper wasp on green leaf\" class=\"wp-image-13242\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6980305991_3209cd81a6_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6980305991_3209cd81a6_c-1-300x240.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6980305991_3209cd81a6_c-1-768x614.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6980305991_3209cd81a6_c-1-480x384.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/sidm/6980305991\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sid Mosdell</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Wasps?</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Wasps help control insect populations and help pollination. The most common wasp in the Dallas Fort Worth area is <a href=\"https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/biting-stinging/wasps/\">paper wasps</a>, recognizable for their pinched waists and long legs. They are black or brown with bright yellow markings and gray wings.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Wasp Infestation</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Paper wasps are aggressive if their nests are threatened. They are venomous, and some people develop allergic reactions to their stings. These insects are adaptable, forming nests in shrubs, trees, windows, door frames, and overhangs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Wasps</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Prevent wasps by properly sealing garbage cans and eliminating food sources around your entrances.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Eliminate Wasps</h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Use a repellent insecticide to treat infestations. When you are certain all residents are dead, scrape and remove the nest left behind.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Insect type: </strong>Vespidae</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Adaptable; form nests in shrubs, trees, door and window frames, and overhangs</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>High; deliver painful and venomous stings that can cause allergic reactions in some people</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal: </strong>Repellent pesticide&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"FAQ\">FAQ About the Worst Bugs in Dallas</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How often do I need professional pest control treatments?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The mild year-round weather is one of the most attractive things about Texas. Unfortunately, bugs love the subtropical climate as much as humans. Experts recommend quarterly pest control treatments for preventative maintenance.  </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I DIY get rid of bed bugs?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, bed bugs are extremely hard to exterminate completely once they have made their way into your home. Treatment requires specialized equipment and training. Your best hope of complete eradication starts by calling a professional in your area for a free quote. </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Are rodents covered under a pest control plan?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Typically, pest control companies offer separate rodent services. Some companies offer a specialized rodent control and prevention program. </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Professional Pest Control for Your Dallas Home and Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pests are creepy, crawly nuisances that will inevitably pop up in your home or yard. The best defense against an invasion is routine lawn maintenance and a pest control prevention plan. There are many low-maintenance landscaping options available for Dallas, and be sure to check out our list of the best native plants that will thrive in your Texas landscape.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need some help to control a pest invasion, contact a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">Dallas exterminator</a> today to keep your family and lawn healthy year-round.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: Wasp sitting on green leaf / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.pexels.com/photo/wasp-sitting-on-green-leaf-4784891/\" target=\"_blank\">Pexels</a></p>\n","title":"11 Worst Bugs in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2,"src":"/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/1789c/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/107df/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 320w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/293e9/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 500w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/f2cbb/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 800w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/1789c/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 960w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/c26c2/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/1dd6e/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/67b76/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 320w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/8df11/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 500w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/98a65/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 800w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/1dd6e/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 960w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/3cc96/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Worst Bugs in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Bugs are common in Dallas thanks to the subtropical climate. Get rid of them with a few simple tips."}}},{"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":"<p>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 [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>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 your own backyard.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Ultimate Grill Station</h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/hVBjwwqgxgQ8Hn4YdtzWxF67wYrPsXorwfnxTMRwR3fyjISFZvr2pOGMAeZGg--GZItdyC2SbDUVxssitw0FYYHEEQGhBHRc4bCRjRbVzDrf_88wPDTUCy0baw-_aQ0l54jt4jIJ\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.houzz.com/photo/46365965-outdoor-cooking-stations-traditional-patio-new-york\"><em>Houzz</em></a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<p>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.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Drink Station/ Bar</h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/oAQ6iCOdwK9xq_6G8-SpjylI1QeWwAeSYUgwwnlmespwHGVuqIKszlLnXKkA4Fu4RHmBggCZNO9WL18vfVf91VEnWHYUVCmuUu4Esl7RuXT81UtiJRYPQEuQ1ZIJHcvl-JfpkEem\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.houzz.com/photo/5442873-grillin-and-chillin-traditional-patio\"><em>Houzz</em></a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<p>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!</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Coffee Nook</h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/2Mghjh1cb-EKrxxg4jgy2_I7Ta724dZuMp4AhrC07W9aFd89oIWPwNiB58R--C4b0JeJaaUi6AscTLgrEOGWBIz26D1E29QgzD0jZq0a-qt1eQ9T69yX85b7j-RnrauowrQYEBja\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.houzz.com/photo/7807459-strait-lane-estate-transitional-patio-dallas\"><em>Houzz</em></a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<p>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.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Shade Canopies</h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q01VrSkGHiaqkcyWO-0rbmhm6mU_UuDP7FoRxJ-HNohPa-74Am55Qvj1ay_CPQf437pM5mda-IrkwR2yproOb2WPR6K9OQJ5VdIfUEURwF3ffigWzTd9xWHWUZlpBXyx1cD-1Npw\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.houzz.com/photo/42932577-clovelly-house-transitional-deck-sydney\"><em>Houzz</em></a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<p>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&#8217;s exterior walls. Just be sure to check with your local city codes for any permits you might be required to obtain before building!</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Fire Pit</h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Y9OoFOy2vl0_J2RLcRXLOQo76I0Jyh-FZaL_9yUZoNpUAUPFWegNchYQJPMJHuz1VQ4um7-xIqLVBLxMSIFjhjIBvfaoxzMxwHpKP-grEzoHmgR4ZvpZy7HYiGqKhTeeY6kBkX8W\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo:</strong> </em><a href=\"https://www.houzz.com/photo/1848964-aquarius-custom-swimming-pool-flower-mound-tx-tropical-patio-dallas\"><em>Houzz</em></a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<p>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.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Children’s Garden</h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fCeSOXwRroQHejFhY-ihx186ckbBL-_09kCguUxyQ2g4_1RLeh5hl9ohNmbJuo2-XZc5WebOtpW7F2sMGRhoR4KW7-N5U4Yk2w7D6UQIzbRJa7Y29bnpUvRc2zFaZX9XThVUqj-g\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><em><strong>Photo: </strong></em><a href=\"https://www.houzz.com/photo/5789093-the-children-upfront-and-center-stage-traditional-landscape-houston\"><em><strong>Houzz</strong></em></a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<p>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.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose 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!<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for more landscaping or lawn care tips? Visit our <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">Dallas lawn care guide</a> for more information!<br></p>\n","title":"Popular Outdoor Living/Landscaping Projects for Dallas, TX Homeowners","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.2972222222222223,"src":"/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/d8638/dallas-tx-skyline.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/107df/dallas-tx-skyline.jpg 320w,\n/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/293e9/dallas-tx-skyline.jpg 500w,\n/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/f2cbb/dallas-tx-skyline.jpg 800w,\n/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/d8638/dallas-tx-skyline.jpg 934w","srcWebp":"/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/29abc/dallas-tx-skyline.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/67b76/dallas-tx-skyline.webp 320w,\n/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/8df11/dallas-tx-skyline.webp 500w,\n/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/98a65/dallas-tx-skyline.webp 800w,\n/static/0b9d675539408ad0b946d6c6cd660349/29abc/dallas-tx-skyline.webp 934w","sizes":"(max-width: 934px) 100vw, 934px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Popular Outdoor Living/Landscaping Projects for Dallas, TX Homeowners | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"f3b67bb5-6efc-5204-9fc2-8b87b2fb54f8","slug":"worst-lawn-weeds-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/worst-lawn-weeds-dallas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Weeds are like stealthy ninjas, gaining control of your lawn and bringing it to the brink of destruction. Even when you think you are doing everything right, diligently applying your pre-emergent herbicide and swooping in immediately to pull weeds that pop up in your lush Dallas lawn, these pesky invaders multiply before your eyes. Luckily, [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Weeds are like stealthy ninjas, gaining control of your lawn and bringing it to the brink of destruction. Even when you think you are doing everything right, diligently applying your pre-emergent herbicide and swooping in immediately to pull weeds that pop up in your lush Dallas lawn, these pesky invaders multiply before your eyes. Luckily, we compiled a list of the most common lawn weeds in Dallas, including tips on how to get rid of them.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we will cover:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#bad\">Why are Weeds Bad for Your Dallas Lawn?</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Lawn\">Ways to Control Weeds in Your Dallas Lawn</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"#Weeding\">Hand Weeding</a></strong></p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"#Treatments\">Weed Control Chemical Treatments</a></strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Dallas\">14 Most Common Lawn Weeds in Dallas</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Bluegrass\">Annual Bluegrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Thistle\">Bull Thistle</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Chickweed\">Common Chickweed</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Crabgrass\">Crabgrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Charlie\">Creeping Charlie</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Dallisgrass\">Dallisgrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Dandelion\">Dandelion</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Bittercress\">Hairy Bittercress</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Henbit\">Henbit</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Nutsedge\">Nutsedge</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Purslane\">Purslane</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Quackgrass\">Quackgrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Spurge\">Spotted Spurge</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Clover\">White Clover</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Common Dallas Weeds</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bad\">Why are Weeds Bad for Your Dallas Lawn?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Like a good con man, weeds love a weak spot. These lawn invaders signify an underlying problem with your lawn’s health. They love low-nitrogen soils, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf. Maintain a healthy lawn with routine maintenance, watering, and fertilization schedules, and the weeds won’t stand a chance.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out some reasons why weed control is so important:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Weeds steal vital nutrients, water, and sunlight from your turfgrass and plants.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They camouflage and spread pests and diseases.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>The longer you let weeds live rent-free in your yard, the harder they are to control.&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Lawn\">Ways to Control Weeds in Your Dallas Lawn</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two ways to control weeds in your lawn: chemical treatments and hand pulling. Pulling weeds by hand is the safest removal method, but it isn’t always the best. Be sure to identify the type of weed you are dealing with before selecting your removal method.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Weeding\">Hand Weeding</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Experts agree, hand weeding is just as important as chemical removal methods. You should aim to weed your yard and garden weekly or bi-weekly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Remove weeds while they are young before they have bloomed or developed complex root systems</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be sure to remove the entire weed, including roots, rhizomes, tubers, or bulbs</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a screwdriver or dandelion fork to help remove weeds with a taproot, like dandelions or spotted spurge</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Treatments\">Weed Control Chemical Treatments</h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pre-emergent herbicide: </strong>Kills seeds before germination, preventing weeds from popping up in your yard</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Post-emergent herbicide</strong>: Targets weeds you can see, disrupting growth and killing them</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iron-based herbicide: </strong>Specifically targets broadleaf weeds</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Dallas\">14 Worst Lawn Weeds in Dallas</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bluegrass\">1. Annual Bluegrass (<em>Poa annua</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Annual-Bluegrass.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of annual bluegrass in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12565\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Annual-Bluegrass.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Annual-Bluegrass-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Annual-Bluegrass-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Annual-Bluegrass-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Annual_bluegrass_%2818873821918%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NY State IPM Program at Cornell University</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/annual-bluegrass/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Annual bluegrass</a>, also known as Poa annua, is an annual grass that reproduces with creeping stolons. It appears in late summer and lasts through fall. It has a dense, clumping growth pattern with serrated, boat-shaped leaves.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Annual bluegrass grows rapidly, easily out-competing existing turfgrass. It is important to note this annual weed is adaptable and responds well to mowing, and it is used as turfgrass in commercial settings like golf courses.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Annual bluegrass is best controlled using a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall and responding to follow-up growth with a post-emergent herbicide.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Annual grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>4-8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Prefers disturbed, cultivated soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Pre-emergent herbicide<strong>, </strong>post-emergent herbicide</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Thistle\">2. Bull Thistle (<em>Cirsium vulgare</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of purple flowers in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12560\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/127605180@N04/16358844318\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jim Morefield</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Known as Texas thistle in Dallas, <a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/texas-thistle/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">bull thistle</a> is a broadleaf biennial, meaning it takes two years to complete its life cycle when left undisturbed. It blooms dark-pink, prickly flowers, and puffy seed heads spread in the air for germination like dandelions.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Spray Texas thistle with post-emergent herbicide after it flowers, usually in early to late spring. Don’t worry if you have to come back and spray the pesky weed again. It can take several applications to get rid of the hardy biennial completely.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Broadleaf biennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3-10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Adaptable</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Moderate; prickly flowers, mildly toxic to humans and livestock</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Post-emergent herbicide</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Chickweed\">3. Common Chickweed (<em>Stellaria media</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Common-Chickweed.jpeg\" alt=\"closeup image of common chickweed with white flowers\" class=\"wp-image-12566\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Common-Chickweed.jpeg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Common-Chickweed-300x199.jpeg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Common-Chickweed-768x510.jpeg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Common-Chickweed-480x319.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stellaria_media_Common_Chickweed_%E1%83%9F%E1%83%A3%E1%83%9C%E1%83%9F%E1%83%A0%E1%83%A3%E1%83%99%E1%83%98.JPG\" target=\"_blank\">Lazaregagnidze</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/common-chickweed/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Common chickweed</a> appears during North Texas winters. Star-shaped white flowers bloom in low-growing mats of leaves. The broadleaf annual stands up to mowing well, making it difficult to get rid of.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is an edible weed and is often fed to poultry. Chickweed thrives in moist, shaded areas. Removal methods include pulling the weed by hand, being sure you get the root system and spraying pre-emergent herbicide in early spring.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Broadleaf annual</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>4-11</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Moist, shady lawns and gardens, especially near buildings</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Low; edible but large quantities cause stomach irritation in humans</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Pre-emergent herbicide, hand removal</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Crabgrass\">4. Crabgrass (<em>Digitaria</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of smooth crabgrass in a yard\" class=\"wp-image-12568\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/99758165@N06/18843169141/in/photolist-uH7aGz-tKRKCU-uqq8uc-tL2HTk-tKRqbh-uqhCSY-uGquC1-uGq8MU-uGqwdq-uqqtNi-oPWEAR-2hdiFGe-g9Uui-hhzZR-uGq8md-gQ9SV-5ewnug-g9Udt-XAey9w-2gShFn2-2gSisWz-2hdhQot-2heG6uj-2heFcMR-rp37En-2hdg3Rk-bC39ej-bQWQ94-x13EMB-bQWRLB-5RoyVU-wkE7LP-bQWSia-bQWSmc-bQWSwZ-bQWRp8-w7YVoD-2hdhLEX-2heDyfL-2gSisKx-2hdhHvL-2hdiyFv-2me1CXm-bC39Jy-2me5tdm-2me2P7u-d7ajM-bQWPPe-qrW1nM-bWiP8E\" target=\"_blank\">NY State IPM Program at Cornell University</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/large-crabgrass/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Crabgrass</a> thrives in the Dallas summer. This annual grassy weed prefers dry soil. Its blades and leaf sheaths are covered by dense hairs that irritate the skin, and the high stalks steal valuable nutrients from your turfgrass.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It reproduces quickly and grows faster than your lawn. Crabgrass loves the sun and overtakes thin lawns. Think twice before cutting your grass extremely short to lessen your mowing frequency, as the fast-growing weed will overtake it quickly.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best method to get rid of crabgrass is to use a pre-emergent herbicide and maintain a healthy and dense lawn with routine fertilization and a consistent watering schedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Annual grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3-11</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Sparse, disturbed habitats like thin lawns, gardens, vacant lots, roads, and grass paths</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>None</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide, and routine lawn maintenance</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Charlie\">5. Creeping Charlie (<em>Glechoma hederacea</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"583\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Creeping-Charlie.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of purple flowers on creeping charlie\" class=\"wp-image-12561\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Creeping-Charlie.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Creeping-Charlie-300x219.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Creeping-Charlie-768x560.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Creeping-Charlie-480x350.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Creeping_Charlie,_Ground_Ivy_%28Glechoma_hederacea%29_-_Flickr_-_Jay_Sturner.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jay Sturner</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/ground-ivy/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Creeping Charlie</a>, or ground ivy in Texas, is a broadleaf perennial herb. Its distinguishable scalloped leaves and clusters of purple flowers pop up in the spring and quickly spread, or creep, to form a dense green carpet.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The minty-smelling weed loves unhealthy, patchy grass, low-fertility soils, and shady spots. The best way to unfriend this herb isn’t to ignore it. Instead, maintain your lawn’s pH levels by following a regular fertilization plan and use post-emergent broadleaf herbicide to eliminate the pest.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Broadleaf perennial&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>5-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Moist, shaded locations</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Moderate;<strong> </strong>toxic to horses in large quantities</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Post-emergent herbicide, regular fertilization schedule</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Dallisgrass\">6. Dallisgrass (<em>Paspalum dilatatum</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dallisgrass.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of dallisgrass in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12567\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dallisgrass.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dallisgrass-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dallisgrass-768x511.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dallisgrass-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dallisgrass-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Paspalum_dilatatum_plant3_%287371040632%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Harry Rose</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/plantanswers/turf/publications/weed14.html\" target=\"_blank\">Dallisgrass</a> is a warm-season perennial grass that loves to invade Texas turfgrass, especially <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/best-grass-types-2/\">bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass</a>. It is aggressive and difficult to control thanks to multiple reproductive methods, including seeds, rhizomes, and stolons. Dallisgrass has a clumped, circular appearance with rough edges.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Proper lawn maintenance is the best line of defense against this aggressive grassy weed. It also responds well to hand pulling and pre-emergent herbicides in the spring.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Perennial grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>6-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Adaptable; prefers moist disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Moderate; non-toxic but susceptible to ergot fungus, which is toxic to livestock and horses</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method:</strong> Routine lawn maintenance<strong>, </strong>pre-emergent herbicide, hand removal&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Dandelion\">7. Dandelion (<em>Taraxacum officinale</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of yellow flowers in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12558\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pixabay.com/sk/photos/p%c3%bapavy-kvety-p%c3%bapava-jar-pr%c3%adroda-5183631/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/dandelion/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dandelions</a> seem like fun when you are a kid, but they turn into nightmares when you own your own lawn. These perennials behave like annuals and are a broadleaf weed. Dandelions pop up in the Dallas spring, beginning with their trademark bright yellow flowers before turning into light, puffy helicopter blade seeds that want nothing more than to be airborne.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dandelions have a taproot that grows vertically downward between 6 to 18 inches deep. Unfortunately, removing the entire dandelion by hand is next to impossible, and the best removal method is a broadleaf herbicide.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Broadleaf perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3-10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Adaptable; prefer disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Low; edible but may cause irritation in some people</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Post-emergent herbicide</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bittercress\">8. Hairy Bittercress (<em>Cardamine hirsuta</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hairy-Bittercress.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of hairy bittercress in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12562\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hairy-Bittercress.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hairy-Bittercress-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hairy-Bittercress-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hairy-Bittercress-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hairy-Bittercress-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hairy_Bittercress_%2832977478722%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Katja Schulz</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/hairy-bittercress/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hairy bittercress</a> thrives in moist environments, popping up after early spring rains with blooms of tiny white flowers. The annual’s flowers turn into pods, dispersing seeds to propagate the plant. Post-emergent weed control is the best method to manage hairy bittercress before the seeds disperse.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Broadleaf annual</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>4-8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Cultivated and open ground, rocks, and walls</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Non-toxic; edible</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Post-emergent herbicide, hand removal</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Henbit\">9. Henbit (<em>Lamium amplexicaule</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of purple flowers in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12559\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/aries_tottle/8546779930\" target=\"_blank\">Miltos Gikas</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/henbit/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Henbit</a> is a cool-season broadleaf annual with square branching stems. It is hairy with circular leaves and purple flowers. It spreads aggressively in the North Texas winters. Thankfully, it has shallow roots and responds well to hand pulling and pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant Type: </strong>Broadleaf annual</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3-8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Adaptable; prefers disturbed lawns, pastures, gardens, nursery plots, and building edges</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Pre-emergent herbicide,<strong> </strong>post-emergent herbicide, hand removal</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Purslane\">10. Purslane (<em>Portulaca oleracea</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of purslane in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12564\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Portulaca_oleracea_stems.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Júlio Reis</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.5</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/purslane/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Purslane</a> is a low-growing succulent and broadleaf annual weed. It loves the rocky soil of North Texas, thriving in between cracks. It is adaptable and will easily encroach on turfgrass. Purslane is drought and heat-tolerant, surviving hot Dallas summers.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purslane grows through spreading in a matted web. It has purple stems, alternating oval leaves, and yellow flowers. The best method to control purslane is hand pulling, ensuring you remove the whole root system.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant Type: </strong>Broadleaf annual</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>5-10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Adaptable</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Non-toxic; edible</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Hand removal</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Nutsedge\">11. Nutsedge (<em>Cyperus rotundus</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of nutsedge in a yard\" class=\"wp-image-12563\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cyperus_rotundus_by_kadavoor.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jeevan Jose, Kerala, India</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/purple-nutsedge/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nutsedge</a>, “the world’s worst weed,” is a perennial sedge weed with a triangular stem. It is drought-tolerant but prefers moist, undrained Texas soil. It grows faster than turfgrass and thrives in warm weather before going dormant in cool weather, only to pop up again when it warms back up.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Treat nutsedge with post-emergent herbicide and ensure your lawn is thick and healthy, being sure to fix drainage issues. Left unattended, the sedge perennial will thrive in bare spots, coming back year after year.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant Type: </strong>Sedge perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>4-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Moist, poorly drained soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Post-emergent herbicide</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Quackgrass\">12. Quackgrass (<em>Elymus repens</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass.jpg\" alt=\"picture of a quackgrass in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12555\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1495221\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://adminplants.sc.egov.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=ELRE4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Quackgrass</a> sounds made up, but this perennial grass loves the Texas fall and winter seasons. It out-competes turfgrass and other weeds, spreading in large clumps with rhizomes. Quackgrass has coarse blades and resembles wheat.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pull quackgrass by hand, being sure to remove the roots. The perennial grass also responds well to spot treatment using post-emergent herbicide.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant Type: </strong>Perennial grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3-10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Moist areas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Noxious; quickly overtakes fields and crops</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Post-emergent herbicide, hand removal</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Spurge\">13. Spotted Spurge (<em>Trifolium repens</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Spotted-Spurge.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of white flowers on spotted spurge plant\" class=\"wp-image-12557\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Spotted-Spurge.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Spotted-Spurge-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Spotted-Spurge-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Spotted-Spurge-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Spotted-Spurge-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Starr_070313-5645_Trifolium_repens.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Forest &amp; Kim Starr</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even though <a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/spotted-spurge/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">spotted spurge</a> is a broadleaf annual, it is a nuisance. Like dandelions, this resilient weed has a long taproot which seemingly brings this zombie weed back from the dead. Spurge grows fast, and its tangled web of leaves spreads low. It loves dry, Texas soil and sun.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pull spotted spurge by hand, but be sure to wear gloves. The zombie plant exudes a skin-irritating milky sap. This annual responds well to pre-emergent herbicide, or you can opt for a post-emergent herbicide if your spurge has already bloomed.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant Type: </strong>Broadleaf annual</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Adaptable; prefer sunny, dry, disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Low; irritating milky sap</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method: </strong>Pre-emergent, post-emergent, hand removal</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Clover\">14. White Clover (<em>Trifolium repens</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"619\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover.jpg\" alt=\"large number of white clovers in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12556\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover-300x232.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover-768x594.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover-480x371.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:White_Clover_%2849194791437%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lawn Weeds</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-weeds/white-clover/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">White clover</a> is another broadleaf perennial like dandelions that loves Dallas yards. It thrives in sparse turfgrass, blooming white flowers in the summer. Clover typically signals low nitrogen levels in your soil.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To remove the pesky good-luck charm, douse it with iron-based herbicides. You can also weed them by hand, taking care to remove their root systems.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant Type: </strong>Broadleaf perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Habitat: </strong>Nitrogen-poor, grassy habitats</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Danger: </strong>Toxic; damaged leaf tissues release cyanide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Removal method:&nbsp; </strong>Post-emergent, iron-based herbicide and hand removal</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Worst Dallas Lawn Weeds</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><h3 role=\"document\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Block: Heading\" tabindex=\"0\" class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable block-editor-block-list__block wp-block is-selected wp-block-heading rich-text\" id=\"block-bdeb91e2-b33c-4838-8cae-304ac36f55eb\" data-block=\"bdeb91e2-b33c-4838-8cae-304ac36f55eb\" data-type=\"core/heading\" data-title=\"Heading\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0); outline: none; min-width: 1px; transform-origin: center center;\">What are selective herbicides?</h3></strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Selective herbicides control specific weeds or weed families. </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are non-selective herbicides?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Non-selective herbicides are typically more potent than selective herbicides. They work on many weeds, including grassy and broadleaf. However, they also wipe out good vegetation and turfgrass. These heavy-duty herbicides are best left to the professionals. </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the toughest weeds to control in Dallas? </strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Perennial weeds are the toughest to control thanks to their underground reproductive systems, including rhizomes and tubers. These weeds regrow season after season. Perennial weeds include clover, spotted spurge, dandelion, crabgrass, and chickweed. The best method to prevent perennial weeds from returning is hand weeding, ensuring you remove the entire root system.</p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Professional Weed Control for Your Dallas Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Weeds are a nuisance, and no matter how diligent you are, they will pop up in your yard. The best defense against an invasion is a healthy lawn. There are many <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/low-maintenance-landscaping/\">low-maintenance landscaping</a> options available for Dallas, including weed-controlling mulch, and be sure to check out our list of the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/native-plants/\">best native plants</a> that will thrive in your Texas landscape.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need some help killing weeds before your next backyard barbecue, contact a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">Dallas lawn care pro</a> today to keep your lawn healthy year-round.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/33037982@N04/7223601676\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Leonora (Ellie) Enking</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"14 Worst Lawn Weeds in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1789c/Lawn-Weeds.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/107df/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 320w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/293e9/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 500w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/f2cbb/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 800w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1789c/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 960w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/c26c2/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1dd6e/Lawn-Weeds.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/67b76/Lawn-Weeds.webp 320w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/8df11/Lawn-Weeds.webp 500w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/98a65/Lawn-Weeds.webp 800w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1dd6e/Lawn-Weeds.webp 960w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/3cc96/Lawn-Weeds.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"14 Worst Lawn Weeds in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Weeds are common in Dallas thanks to the Texas sun and warm weather. Get rid of them with a few simple tips."}}},{"node":{"id":"207e6d67-f26a-57db-8f2f-45c58bdd4e06","slug":"lawn-mowing-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/lawn-mowing-dallas/","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":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"}],"date":"March 5th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Lawn mowing is the most common maintenance task you will perform, typically each week, depending on the weather that week. While mowing seems pretty straightforward, you want to make sure you are doing it correctly. Here are some tips. Never cut more than one-third of the height of your grass. If you cut your grass [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Lawn mowing is the most common maintenance task you will perform, typically each week, depending on the weather that week. While mowing seems pretty straightforward, you want to make sure you are doing it correctly. Here are some tips.</p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Never cut more than one-third of the height of your grass</strong>. If you cut your grass too short, it makes the grass more susceptible to diseases and pests.</li><li><strong>Don’t stop mowing until the growth stops and the temperatures drop down lower</strong>.</li><li><strong>Leave behind the grass clippings</strong>. You might think it looks unkempt, but grass clippings decompose rapidly back into the soil, acting as an organic fertilizer that provides nutrients back to your soil.</li><li><strong>Remember to use a varying pattern each time you mow</strong>. Otherwise, your grass blades start to lean in the direction you cut.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Each type of grass in big D has a recommended mowing height. Some grasses do better when at a shorter height, but some do require a higher length. At the start of the season, make sure you sharpen your mowing blades and raise (or lower) the blades to the appropriate height.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The recommended mowing heights for popular grass types in Dallas, TX are:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Bermuda&nbsp;</strong>– 1.5 to 1.75 inches</li><li><strong>Augustine</strong>&nbsp;– 2 to 2.5 inches</li><li><strong>Centipede&nbsp;</strong>– 2 to 2.5 inches</li><li><strong>Zoysia</strong>&nbsp;– 1 inch</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<p>During periods of drought, you should mow at the higher end of the recommended spectrum. You can go as far as letting grass reach a full inch above the normal height. Doing so gives the roots ample time to grow deeper into the soil, finding water deep down.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, be sure to remain safe when mowing the lawn.  Never mow the lawn during the dark, and be sure to collect all rocks and stones.  Additionally, never let your kid sit on your lap while operating a riding lawn mower &#8211; that&#8217;s the source of many child injuries.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t want to brave the Texas heat this summer?  We&#8217;ve compiled a list of the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">top lawn care services in Dallas, TX</a> for your convenience. </p>\n","title":"A Quick Guide to Lawn Mowing in Dallas, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.508515815085158,"src":"/static/cf88d17909791171d0506afca8ca8451/b2620/kid-pushing-lawn-mower.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cf88d17909791171d0506afca8ca8451/107df/kid-pushing-lawn-mower.jpg 320w,\n/static/cf88d17909791171d0506afca8ca8451/293e9/kid-pushing-lawn-mower.jpg 500w,\n/static/cf88d17909791171d0506afca8ca8451/b2620/kid-pushing-lawn-mower.jpg 620w","srcWebp":"/static/cf88d17909791171d0506afca8ca8451/7561c/kid-pushing-lawn-mower.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cf88d17909791171d0506afca8ca8451/67b76/kid-pushing-lawn-mower.webp 320w,\n/static/cf88d17909791171d0506afca8ca8451/8df11/kid-pushing-lawn-mower.webp 500w,\n/static/cf88d17909791171d0506afca8ca8451/7561c/kid-pushing-lawn-mower.webp 620w","sizes":"(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"A Quick Guide to Lawn Mowing in Dallas, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Here's how to mow your lawn in the DFW area for the best results, without cutting your toes off."}}},{"node":{"id":"640aaca0-f358-50b5-9950-34e42b2022df","slug":"dallas-residents-how-to-start-an-herb-garden-in-your-kitchen","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/dallas-residents-how-to-start-an-herb-garden-in-your-kitchen/","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":"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":"July 3rd, 2019","excerpt":"<p>Growing an herb garden in your kitchen window is a simple task for Dallas, TX residents. Herbs have been used for centuries to flavor food and for medicinal purposes. Dishes wouldn’t taste the same without herbs to create unique flavor combinations. Learning how to start an herb garden in your kitchen is surprisingly easy. Most [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Growing an herb garden in your kitchen window is a simple task for Dallas, TX residents. Herbs have been used for centuries to flavor food and for medicinal purposes. Dishes wouldn’t taste the same without herbs to create unique flavor combinations. Learning how to start an herb garden in your kitchen is surprisingly easy. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most herbs grow exceptionally well in Dallas, TX, so you could start the herbs inside and put them outside later if you wanted. Some people like to have herbs inside and outside! <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring is the best time of year to start indoor herb gardens! So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started! </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Finding the Right Spot for Your Herb Garden</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A majority of the herb plants you could grow desire full sun, and that is the trickiest part about growing herbs inside. You need to find a spot in your kitchen that receives enough sunlight. Herbs prefer six to eight hours of direct sunlight. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most people find that a south-facing windowsill has the best exposure for maximum sunlight. You can get suction cup window shelves if your windows lack a windowsill or there is no space for a table. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you’re unable to find an appropriate location in your house, you’ll either have to pick a few herbs that tolerate less sunlight or hang a grow light in your kitchen. You can find small grow light setups for relatively cheap that could set right on your kitchen countertop! <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some people prefer to grow herbs inside because you can move the plants around! When you grow them outside, they’re stuck in the ground, but you can move them from window to window, if you wanted, to ensure they receive the right sunlight. Indoor herbs often receive ample sunlight! </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Temperature Matters Too</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only does sunlight matter, but temperature does as well! Herbs need to be kept between 65 and 70 degrees, which is perfect for most homes. Take care when you place your herb in the windowsill. Hang a thermometer there a few days before you place your herbs there. You want to make sure the window sill or whatever area you select is the ideal temperature! </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Herbs Grow Well in Dallas, TX </strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Due to the climate in Dallas, TX, you can grow a lot of herbs! If you plan to always keep them indoors, you could grow anything, but it’s a good idea to make sure the herbs you do plant grow well in your climate. That way, if you decide you want to transplant it outside, you can! <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some herbs you might want to grow in your Dallas, TX indoor herb garden include:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Basil</li><li>Parsley</li><li>Oregano</li><li>Rosemary</li><li>Lavender</li><li>Thyme</li><li>Chives</li><li>Cilantro</li><li>Dill</li><li>Aloe Vera</li><li>Sage</li><li>Yarrow </li><li>Mint</li><li>Lemon Grass</li><li>Fennel</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you can’t find a window or location that receives full sunlight, <strong>shade-tolerant herbs for Dallas, TX residents include</strong>:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Parsley</li><li>Thyme</li><li>Oregano</li><li>Lemon Balm</li><li>Marjoram</li><li>Lemon Verbena</li><li>Fennel </li></ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tips for Starting an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Try Heirloom Plants </strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Heirloom varieties are often the hardiest varieties. Look for heirloom plants that thrive in a climate similar to Dallas, TX. Head to a local farm and fleet stores to see what varieties local farmers might sell. These plants are adapted to your area and will give you the best results.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Make Sure You Pick a Container with Drainage</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>All of your containers should have drainage holes and a saucer. If you do pick a sealed pot, place rocks at the base of the pot along with some vermiculite in the soil. These will increase the drainage in your sealed container. It’s best to pick containers with drainage if possible. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Use The Right Potting Mix</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An indoor herb garden needs a potting soil mixture that has additional drainage. The label should tell you that it’s appropriate for indoor garden plants. If the soil is too heavy, try adding some perlite or vermiculite to the mixture. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should look for a potting mixture rather than a potting soil. A mixture is lighter and has an aerator like perlite already added to it. If you can’t find the mixture, then just adapt the soil to work!<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whatever you do, don’t go outside and use the dirt from your outside garden. It seems like a smart idea, but the soil in your Dallas, TX garden is going to be too compact for indoor growing. It won’t hold onto water for as long, leading to insufficient root growth. Plus, you’ll bring in insects and parasites found outside. Not a good idea! </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Water and Fertilize Properly </strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You don’t have to water and fertilize too much. Doing so is just as harmful as not doing enough! Mark when you fertilized and watered your plants so you don’t overdo it, or you can create a schedule. More inside plants die because of excessive water and fertilizer than not enough! <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>To determine if your herb needs water, test the soil by placing your finger into it. If it’s dry two inches below the surface, then it’s time to water. The top of the soil dries out first. Watering too soon doesn’t encourage the roots of the herbs to grow deeper into the pot searching for water. A healthy root system creates a healthy plant, so that’s your goal. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Harvest Your Herbs Correctly</strong></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Don’t harvest your plants until they’re matured for the first time. Then, never harvest more than one-third of the plant at any given time. Make sure that one third grows back before you harvest again. <br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>It’s a good idea to look up each herb you intend to grow and learn about its specific pruning needs. Herbs grow best when pruned properly. You’ll be surprised out large and rapidly they can grow in the right conditions! </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Grow an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p>All Dallas resident should have an indoor herb garden in their kitchen! It’s incredibly easy! Your first step is to find out what location receives the most sunlight. Then, decide what herbs you want to grow and prepare your containers. Plant your herbs and wait for them to mature. Before you know it, you’ll have fresh herbs in all of your dishes! </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Need lawn care advice? Check out our <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">Dallas lawn care</a> guide for helpful tips and tricks.</p>\n","title":"Dallas Residents: Here&#8217;s How to Start an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/1789c/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/107df/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 320w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/293e9/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 500w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/f2cbb/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 800w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/1789c/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 960w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/b56d2/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 4086w","srcWebp":"/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/1dd6e/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/67b76/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 320w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/8df11/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 500w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/98a65/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 800w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/1dd6e/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 960w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/002d3/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 4086w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Dallas Residents: Here's How to Start an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"bf71fa9f-247d-5b4d-b0f5-9d59eee04fb8","slug":"lawn-treatment-advice-for-fire-ants-in-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/lawn-treatment-advice-for-fire-ants-in-dallas/","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":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"}],"date":"May 22nd, 2019","excerpt":"<p>The desire for lawn maintenance can come from a sense of pride for your landscape or a need to surround yourself with living things. Regardless of why you keep your yard looking tidy and clean, there are benefits for having the lawn maintained that go beyond how you want your property to look. Mowing the [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>The desire for lawn maintenance can come from a sense of pride for your landscape or a need to surround yourself with living things. Regardless of why you keep your yard looking tidy and clean, there are benefits for having the lawn maintained that go beyond how you want your property to look. Mowing the lawn gets rid of the long unkempt grass that attracts not only weeds but bugs as well. Short grass does not provide shade for pests like mosquitos, moths, and beetles. These species do not thrive in the sun and are most active during dawn or dusk. A lack of available shade can prevent them from swarming in your yard. Fertilizing the lawn can make the grass a vibrant green, but too much fertilizer can be toxic and cause your grass to die. It can also runoff into your sewer system, causing health problems and possible HOA violations.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you see disturbed soil in your yard with mounds around 18 inches tall with no visible entrances, then you are most likely dealing with fire ants. The article will focus on teaching you how to recognize the warning signs and how to treat fire ants in your yard. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Basic Facts about Fire Ants</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"427\" height=\"640\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/fire-ants-1788584_640.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8368\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/fire-ants-1788584_640.jpg 427w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/fire-ants-1788584_640-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 427px) 100vw, 427px\" /><figcaption><em>Did you know?</em><br>A single fire ant queen can produce 1,600 eggs per day.</figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<p>There are all sorts of ants in Dallas. Carpenter ants, leafcutter ants, and pavement ants are just a few species common to Dallas, but fire ants are a species that sticks out from the rest. They are notorious for their sting. There are native fire ants as well as imported fire ants in Dallas. The native ants are not as aggressive as their imported counterparts, but they do sting and may also cause a pustule at the site of the bite. Red imported fire ants are considered to be exotic and invasive species in various parts of Texas. They have even displaced the other species of fire ants native to the state. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>The red imported fire ants’ colonies scale between 300-500,000 workers and scavenge a perimeter as far as 100 yards. They either have a single-queen colony or a multiple-queen one. Single-queen colonies are territorial and only forage within their area while the latter colony is freer ranged in their scavenging, moving from one mound to another. Areas infested with single-queen colonies have around 40-150 mounds per acre (typically no more than 7 million ants per acre). In regions with multiple-queen colonies, there may be over 200 mounds and 40 million ants per acre.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The queen lives between 2 to 6 years while her workers typically live around 180 days (or 6 months). The total time for an egg to become adult averages 30 days. The fire ant workers diverse from one another in various ways. They come in different colors, ranging from shades of red to black and vary in size as well, up to ¼ an inch. Regardless of the size, they all have the same body proportions with the head width never exceeding the abdomen width. The one thing they have in common is their aggressive nature that they push many insects away from their local habitat. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>The homes of red imported fire ants are mounds of loose soil with no clear entrances. The fire ants come and go to the mound through underground tunnels, and they prefer to build mounds in open sunny areas such as pastures, parks, meadows, and lawns. Locate mounds around trees, rotting logs, and stumps. You can also find colonies in or under buildings. The colony generally lives in numerous mounds near each other.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the mounds are unearthed, they will swarm and viciously sting whoever disturbed the mound. Different from other ants, which simply bite and then spray acid on the wound, fire ants bite to get a hold of its prey and then sting like a bee from the abdomen. The fire ants inject a toxic alkaloid venom called solenopsin. This venom causes a painful sting for humans and leaves a sensation similar to what someone feels when burned by fire, rightfully giving them the name of fire ants. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>They mostly feed on young plants and seed but are known to attack small animals and even kill their victims. They are attracted to food that includes protein, greases, and sweets. They also eat and forage small insects and dead animals. When fire ants invade a building, residential or commercial space, they seem to be charmed by electrical currents. &nbsp;Their presence can create damage to air-conditioning units, telephone wires, and even electrical junction boxes.  </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fire ant activity starts from spring and goes into the late fall months. Fire ants are most active when the temperatures range between 65 °F to 90 °F. The workers are generally active outside the nest, scavenging for food during the cooler morning and evening hours. They are also renowned for their ability to survive extreme conditions, but they do not hibernate and can endure cold conditions. Another extreme condition is when the population has declined, the queen only needs a few workers to start a new colony. They would then develop a new mound not far from their previous location in just a few hours.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>See also:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/home-garden/plants-that-repel-insects/\">10 Insect-Repelling Plants that Drive Away Nasty Pests</a></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fire Ant Control </h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a few methods to use when dealing with fire ants. If you desire to handle fire ants yourself, try following these steps recommended by a <a href=\"https://sixbrotherspestcontrol.com/dallas-tx/\">pest control company in Dallas</a>. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fire ant bait</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We advise you first to treat your lawn with the broadcasting method. Broadcast a fire ant bait over the entire yard. You would do this a few times a year during the spring and summer. Treating your lawn will help significantly reduce your fire ant infestation. Apply the fire ant baits on sunny days and when you see higher activity around the mound. Baits will entice the worker ants to forage for it. Check for the weather to avoid putting out the bait on extremely hot or rainy days. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Broadcast fire ant killer</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After applying the fire ant bait, apply a broadcast fire ant killer. This will prevent surviving queens and workers from forming new mounds or invisible mounds you believe you missed. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Using insecticides</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This method is most effective when dealing with smaller areas or individual mounds. Your main goal when using a liquid insecticide is to kill the queen. Drench the mound with the insecticide using a rod to form vertical tunnels that ensure the liquid reaches the queen.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Still have questions about pest control? Visit our </em><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/pest-control/\"><em>Pest Control page</em></a><em> for more information.</em><br></p>\n","title":"Lawn Treatment Advice for Fire Ants in Dallas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4112458654906284,"src":"/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/1789c/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/107df/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/293e9/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/f2cbb/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/1789c/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/356ef/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/1dd6e/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/67b76/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.webp 320w,\n/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/8df11/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.webp 500w,\n/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/98a65/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.webp 800w,\n/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/1dd6e/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.webp 960w,\n/static/d309b743bf88a044d654b9aee987ea36/93f70/fire-ant-1091301_1280-1.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Treatment Advice for Fire Ants in Dallas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"ba45de85-91e3-5ed4-bcd4-3024564b646a","slug":"lawn-mowing-and-maintenance-in-dallas-plano-irving","path":"/blog/lawn-mowing-and-maintenance-in-dallas-plano-irving/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Tina Hill is a landscape designer who stages homes before they go on the market. She recently remodeled her own backyard to include covered hardscaped areas along with an outdoor kitchen and fireplace.","name":"Tina Hill","id":"05b33636-8a93-5cbe-a32e-4d72278ff06f","path":"/author/tina-hill/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8f78fd5fd50db11dcceecbeb20de206e?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2022","excerpt":"<p>A maintenance-free lawn doesn’t exist in North Texas. That’s the first thing to keep in mind when you think about your yard in Dallas or Plano or Irving. Because the growing season is so long, you’ll be putting work into your yard long after homeowners in cooler climates have put away the mower. Here are [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>A maintenance-free lawn doesn’t exist in North Texas. That’s the first thing to keep in mind when you think about your yard in Dallas or Plano or Irving. Because the growing season is so long, you’ll be putting work into your yard long after homeowners in cooler climates have put away the mower. Here are some tips to lawn mowing and maintenance in North Texas.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Contents: </p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<ul><li><a href=\"#mowing\">Mowing</a></li><li><a href=\"#leave\">Leave the Clippings</a></li><li><a href=\"#maintaing\">Maintain Your Mower</a></li><li><a href=\"#weed\">Weed and Feed</a></li><li><a href=\"#watering\">Watering</a></li><li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ</a></li></ul>\n</div></div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mowing\">Mowing</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The key here is not to “scalp” your grass, meaning cut it too short. Scalping lets precious water evaporate more quickly in the Texas heat. It also stresses your grass, leaving it vulnerable to diseases and pests. Your lawn is most likely a warm-season variety like<a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/the-definitive-guide-st-augustine-grass/\"> St. Augustinegrass</a>, Zoysia grass, buffalograss or Bermudagrass. Your proper grass length depends on the variety you have. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Experts recommend St. Augustine be cut 2 to 2.5 inches tall. The recommended height for common Bermuda is 1.25 to 1.5 inches tall. Zoysias should be between 2 to 3 inches tall, and buffalograss is the longest, with a recommended height of 3 to 4 inches. Look to mow the lawn about once a week during the hot season. Pro tip: mow in a different direction each time. This helps the blades of the grass stand up straight and prevent ruts. The grass will most likely be dormant from about November to early March.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"leave\">Leave the Clippings</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https://pxhere.com/es/photo/695111\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/SPQeqvQ6uMk7cMElBDUFbYM1ustCr3YbH-zwCAxan81fLDKrx77uFe8taJ0ZYyDkBxGA-WdL7l9txXMvtPLIQJFTefe5HefL-zb1DKtCU59NI1FmHe7QwhTw1ifQE8LXcg\" alt=\"\"/></a><figcaption>Photo credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/es/photo/695111\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere</a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t bag those clippings. The clippings add vital nutrients back into the soil as they decompose. As long as you mow at the proper height, the clippings will break down quickly.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"maintaing\">Maintain Your Mower</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_11pixnio-46676-6144x4096-1.jpg\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption>Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pixnio.com/people/male-men/changing-his-lawnmowers-oil-using-a-disposable-aluminum-catch-pan-which-was-filled-with-absorbent-cat-litter#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixnio</a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n<p>Sharpen the blades, change the oil and spark plugs once a year. Dull blades will tear the grass instead of cutting it, leaving it susceptible to disease and pests.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"weed\">Weed and Feed</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some make a ritual out of applying weed and feed to their lawns every Super Bowl Sunday in February. This counts as “early spring” in Texas, and the grass is beginning to green up. That’s <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/blog/when-and-how-to-fertilize-your-lawn/\">when you need to fertilize</a> your lawn. The rule of thumb is generally between February and April. This is also the time to stop weeds in their tracks &#8212; before they ever get a firm root in your yard. You can also find weed and feed mixtures that contain fire ant killer, to keep the nasty little insects from digging up mounds of dirt in your lawn and biting you. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"watering\">Watering</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RlVQn9EJ-aojgCh7tRmrSbz18RBq6WSySSIjeOIaXKZFzGZ4oiV4yo0xVM45-4P97x6HMDcARpfMYt1TUuGapaqJ6uuYWqK2Zka5OdU4a9HHakvPIYiWNdxHJCQKg16tKA\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption>Photo credit:<a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/author/brendastuartryangmail-com/\"> Brenda Stuart</a>/Wikilawn</figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n<p>Your lawn needs a good long drink every five to ten days, generally. Keep that in mind before you overwater the grass. Also, your city probably has ordinances or recommendations on what days you can water and what time. Use your sprinkler two times a week, and don&#8217;t water between 10 am and 6 pm. In most cases, drip irrigation, soaker hoses, and hand watering are allowed any day of the week. Ideally, you water early in the morning &#8212; giving your grass a good drink of water, but allowing the droplets on the blades to evaporate over the daytime hours. This lowers your lawn’s risk of fungus problems.<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to a lush, green lawn in north Texas is consistency over the course of the long, hot growing season. If you begin tending to it on a regular basis when it first begins to green, and maintain it through the triple-digit temperatures of the summer, and into the fall, it will reward you with beautiful, emerald green grass.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>1. <strong>Will a cool-season grass survive in north Texas?</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and tall fescue will grow better in fall and winter, but they will survive a north Texas summer. Cool-season grasses are not recommended further south where it gets much warmer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Are some grass types more shade-tolerant than others?</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. St.&nbsp;Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and centipedegrass are the most shade tolerant warm season grasses for the Dallas area.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Is it possible to keep a</strong> <strong>green lawn year-round in Dallas?</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. <a href=\"https://ngturf.com/southern-blue/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Southern blue</a> is a hybrid turf that mixes Texas bluegrass with Kentucky bluegrass and stays green even in winter. This cool-season grass is also drought-resistant and does well in the shade.  Southern blue is not recommended by south Texas.</p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Need help mowing and maintaining your lawn?</em> W<em>e can help you to</em><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/#get-quote\"><em> find a lawn care or landscaping pro near you</em></a><em>.</em></p>\n","title":"Lawn Mowing And Maintenance in Dallas-Plano-Irving","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.6204379562043796,"src":"/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/7e2e0/lawn-mowing.jpg","srcSet":"/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/107df/lawn-mowing.jpg 320w,\n/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/293e9/lawn-mowing.jpg 500w,\n/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/7e2e0/lawn-mowing.jpg 666w","srcWebp":"/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/a66c8/lawn-mowing.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/67b76/lawn-mowing.webp 320w,\n/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/8df11/lawn-mowing.webp 500w,\n/static/358255b99ee43c9a2f24cac4f073ec13/a66c8/lawn-mowing.webp 666w","sizes":"(max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Mowing And Maintenance in Dallas-Plano-Irving | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"A beautiful lawn in DFW doesn't just happen. We offer tips on lawn mowing and maintenance in Dallas-Plano and Irving to help you keep your lawn thrivinging."}}},{"node":{"id":"f306e43f-d25e-5a96-a6e2-eaec4e4d56d2","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/low-maintenance-landscaping-dallas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"March 21st, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Let’s face it, your weekends are better spent cheering on your favorite team than maintaining your North Texas lawn. Whether you are an Aggie or a Longhorn, there are low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will cut down on your outdoor chores so you can get back to the “Lone Star Showdown.”&nbsp;&nbsp; Switching to low-maintenance landscaping means [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Let’s face it, your weekends are better spent cheering on your favorite team than maintaining your North Texas lawn. Whether you are an Aggie or a Longhorn, there are low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will cut down on your outdoor chores so you can get back to the “Lone Star Showdown.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Switching to low-maintenance landscaping means less time, effort, water, weeding, mowing, and pests. In subtropical areas like Dallas, where summer temperatures can soar to well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, energy and water conservation is important.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Perennials\">Perennials: Beauty on Repeat&nbsp;</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Native-Plants\">Lay Down Texas Roots With Native Plants</a>&nbsp;</strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Garden-Beds\">Mulch Your Garden Beds</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Hardscaping\">Add Sustainable Hardscaping</a>&nbsp;</strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Xeriscaping\">Conserve Water With Xeriscaping</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Groundcover\">Mow Less With Groundcover</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Artificial-Grass\">Consider No-Mow Artificial Grass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Succulents\">Southern Succulents</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Perennials\">1. Perennials: Beauty on Repeat</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennials-landscaping.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12158\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennials-landscaping.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennials-landscaping-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennials-landscaping-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennials-landscaping-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennials-landscaping-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nandina_domestica,_heavenly_bamboo,_at_RHS_Garden_Hyde_Hall,_Essex,_England.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Acabashi</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The bright blooms you see as you’re strolling through your local store are annuals. These flowers are less expensive and look great, for now, lasting one growing season before dying in late fall. If bright blooms are your thing, consider switching out your annuals for drought-tolerant perennials.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perennials have a shorter, more defined blooming season than annuals, but they survive the cold winters and bloom every year. They are more expensive upfront. However, they tolerate extreme weather and come in many varieties such as deer-resistant and shade-loving types for your urban Dallas yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are ready for landscaping beauty on repeat, check out some of the best <a href=\"https://txmg.org/denton/north-texas-gardening/perennials/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">heat-tolerant perennials</a> for Dallas:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Blue Princess Verbena (<em>Verbena x hybrida)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bird of Paradise (<em>Caesalpinia gilliesii)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shrub Verbena (<em>Lantana camara)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Texas Gold Columbine (<em>Aquilegia chrysantha)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>White Rain Lily (<em>Zephyranthes candida)</em></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of perennials:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bloom yearly</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Last 10-20 years or more</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve soil structure</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prevent erosion</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water and nutrient-efficient&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>The average cost of a perennial plant varies depending on the size and type of plant, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local store to purchase your own perennials, you can expect to spend between <strong>$10 to $100 per plant.</strong>&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Native-Plants\">2. Lay Down Texas Roots With Native Plants&nbsp;</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/native-plants.jpg\" alt=\"purple native flowers in dallas\" class=\"wp-image-12160\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/native-plants.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/native-plants-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/native-plants-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/native-plants-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/native-plants-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.hippopx.com/en/echinacea-flower-herbal-flower-500159\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hippopx</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native Texas plants are the most low-maintenance plants you can include in your landscaping project. They promote a healthy ecosystem and thrive in the North Texas heat while remaining cold-hardy enough to survive a surprise winter snow. Native plants are hands-off and resistant to local insects and diseases.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many <a href=\"https://npsot.org/wp/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dallas native plants</a> to choose from. Take a look at some examples:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Cenizo<em> (Leucophyllum frutescens)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Golden groundsel <em>(Packera aurea)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pavonia<em> (Pavonia lasiopetala)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Texas bluebonnet<em> (Lupinus texensis)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wine cup<em> (Callirhoe involucrata)</em></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of native plants:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Thrive in Dallas-Fort Worth’s subtropical climate</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Require less water and fertilizer</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Support a diverse ecosystem, providing food and shelter for local wildlife, hummingbirds, and pollinators</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disease and pest-resistant</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>Like perennials, native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between <strong>$15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, </strong>and <strong>$200 to $1,500 per tree</strong>.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Garden-Beds\">3. Mulch Your Garden Beds</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Garden-Bed-.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12161\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Garden-Bed-.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Garden-Bed--300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Garden-Bed--768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Garden-Bed--600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Garden-Bed--480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MADZioifpLA-gardener-mulching-flower-bed-with-pine-tree-bark-mulch/\" target=\"_blank\">ronstik</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mulch is an inexpensive and low-effort DIY job that will provide a big payoff for your Texas landscape. It is a loose material typically made of organic matter like compost, tree bark, and wood chips. Mulch helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from heat.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Organic mulch adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Inorganic mulches like rubber and gravel are more low-maintenance and durable but do not offer additional nutrients. It is important to note that organic mulches like wood chips must be replaced each year with a fresh layer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some examples of mulch are:</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Organic mulch:&nbsp;</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Hardwood and softwood chips</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bark</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pine needles</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leaves</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grass clippings</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Inorganic mulch:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Rock, stone, lava rock</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rubber mulch</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Landscape fabric</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of mulch:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Increases moisture retention</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces weeds</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects plant roots from extreme heat</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adds curb appeal</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between <strong>$3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag</strong>. Rubber mulch is more durable and expensive, costing around <strong>$8 to $10 per 0.8-cubic-foot bag</strong>. If your landscaping project requires a lot of mulch, you can often purchase it in bulk to save money.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Hardscaping\">4. Add Sustainable Hardscaping</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backyard-Hardscaping-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12163\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backyard-Hardscaping-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backyard-Hardscaping-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backyard-Hardscaping-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backyard-Hardscaping-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backyard-Hardscaping-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/okchomeseller/42166440104\" target=\"_blank\">Bill Wilson</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Texas summers are hot, and there’s nothing more you want to do than relax at your backyard barbecue with a refreshing frozen margarita. The fewer plants in your landscaping design, the less time you will spend maintaining your lawn and garden. Consider hardscaping your backyard to add sustainable visual interest while eliminating the need for weekly maintenance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hardscapes are man-made features, including:&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Decks</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patios</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pergolas</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Garden paths</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decorative stones</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fire pits</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rock gardens</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water features</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For the most part, hardscapes are a set-it-and-forget-it choice for garden design. They don’t require watering, pruning, or mowing. In fact, they don’t require maintenance at all except for an annual cleaning. Hardscapes are an expensive upfront investment, but they increase home value and curb appeal, saving you time and money in the long run.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of hardscapes:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Only require annual cleaning</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increase property value&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add entertaining and outdoor living space</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water-efficient</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce soil erosion</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Boost curb appeal</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>Be prepared to spend around <strong>$7,500 for a new deck, $4,000 for a patio, $850 for a fire pit, </strong>and <strong>$3,000 for a flagstone walkway.</strong>&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Xeriscaping\">5. Conserve Water With Xeriscaping</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden.jpg\" alt=\"plants in a xeriscaping garden\" class=\"wp-image-12164\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jeremylevinedesign/2888120894/in/photolist-5pdnHQ-8DSJhH-5i5kig-eW2hQr-eW2m4n-JpKyU-oKe68P-AbFEpy-NZZdt3-8zE8GZ-TvWE5-TvFbJ-TvFcd-2jqwS6Y-2gjRZ5n-2gjSqYx-2dWEfy-GUjZY6-TvFcu-TvFfE-dRH9Wi-TvWFw-TvWF1-TvWG7-TvFfd-4BA6MQ-E354uE-HehZNM-TvQwG-TvQyo-4BA6c3-q1WDh-228cLtq-8zE1Z8-TvQy5-6PSFTv-TvQAL-caQgK-TvQxE-2zytwo-6CrRic-eHvin-312Yiz-TvWEE-caQnx-37Dw4x-g2FBG-2AejtT-2kgdRVP-2gHz4J9\" target=\"_blank\">Jeremy Levine</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Like hardscaping, xeriscaping focuses on low-maintenance landscaping and water conservation. In the U.S., <a href=\"https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">landscape irrigation</a> makes up nearly one-third of all residential water use. Xeriscaping involves creating a beautiful home landscape that requires no watering except rainfall.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dallas native plants are a great water-wise option for xeriscaping your yard. They are naturally drought resistant and adapted to harsh Texas summers. Besides native plants, some basic steps for xeriscaping your yard include:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Plan and hydrozone your landscape by grouping plants with similar water needs together</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mulch your flower beds for maximum water retention</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Install smart irrigation with a rain sensor, drip lines, and automatic sprinklers</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minimize turfgrass area</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blend hardscaping elements into your landscape&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of xeriscaping:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Conserves water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lowers water bills</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces runoff</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>Professional xeriscaping costs between <strong>$5 to $20 per square foot,</strong> depending on many factors like plant selection and the size of your yard. While upfront costs may seem high, you will be saving around <strong>$0.36 per square foot </strong>annually on water and maintenance costs.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Groundcover\">6. Mow Less With Groundcover</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Groundcover.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12167\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Groundcover.jpeg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Groundcover-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Groundcover-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Groundcover-600x400.jpeg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Groundcover-480x320.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:I.S%C3%A1%C4%8Dek,_senior\">I.</a><a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Groundcover_6695.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sáček, senior</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC0 1.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Who says your entire yard has to be covered in traditional grass for a thick, green appearance? Low-maintenance groundcover makes a great alternative to traditional <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/best-grass-types-2/\">turfgrass</a>. Groundcover plants grow a few inches tall and spread quickly to fill horizontal space.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Groundcover can fill areas of your lawn to mimic “grass,” while their low-maintenance attitude means less work for you. These plants still require water and the occasional fertilizer, but selecting a native Texas groundcover will ensure your new “grass” is hardy, drought tolerant, and best of all, low maintenance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out these popular Dallas groundcovers:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Golden groundsel <em>(Packera aurea)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Red Yucca (<em>Hesperaloe parviflora</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Texas Sage (<em>Leucophyllum frutescens)</em></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of groundcovers:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Conserve water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pest resistant</li>\n\n\n\n<li>No mowing required&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fewer weeds</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>According to Dallas landscaping experts, <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://ecoblossom.com/collections/vines\" target=\"_blank\">Eco Blossom Nursery</a>, groundcover plants cost around <strong>$5 to $50 each</strong>, depending on size.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Artificial-Grass\">7. Consider No-Mow Artificial Grass</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-grass.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12165\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-grass.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-grass-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-grass-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-grass-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-grass-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/125433134@N08/14986944752\" target=\"_blank\">Perfect Grass</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Channel your inner Brady Bunch with artificial turf. Contrary to popular belief, this synthetic grass is eco-friendly, comes in a variety of colors and styles, and is essentially an outdoor carpet. Thanks to technological advancements, it is hard to tell fake grass from real grass in most cases.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Artificial grass is virtually maintenance-free. However, it is expensive to install and may render your soil unusable in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of artificial grass:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>No maintenance other than occasional cleaning&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pest free</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces water consumption&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>Professional artificial grass installation costs between <strong>$5 to $20 per square foot</strong>.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Succulents\">8. Southern Succulents&nbsp;</h2>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"498\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Succulent-Garden.jpg\" alt=\"plants and rock in a succulent garden\" class=\"wp-image-12166\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Succulent-Garden.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Succulent-Garden-300x187.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Succulent-Garden-768x478.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Succulent-Garden-400x250.jpg 400w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Succulent-Garden-480x299.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"> Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/115504\" target=\"_blank\">Pxhere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dallas natives love their Cowboys and Tex-Mex. If you would rather spend more time perfecting your brisket tacos and less time maintaining your yard, consider planting drought-resistant succulents like cacti or agaves.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Succulents love dry, arid climates and thrive in the Texas climate thanks to their thick leaves. They prefer to be left alone, so you can forget about watering your plants and let nature take over. Succulents come in a variety of shapes and sizes and work great in back and front yards.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out these popular succulents that are great for Dallas yards:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Echeveria (<em>Echeveria elegans)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parry’s Agave (<em>Agave parryi)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Santa Rita Prickly Pear (<em>Opuntia santa-rita)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tree Houseleek (<em>Aeonium)</em></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of succulents:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Drought-resistant</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diverse shapes and sizes</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adaptable&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>The price depends on the size and type of succulent and ranges from <strong>$10 to $75 per plant</strong>.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ About Low-Maintenance Dallas Landscaping</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How often should I lay down new mulch?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Organic mulch provides moisture retention and nutrients for your plants. Experts recommend laying new mulch on top of your existing mulch annually in the spring after the last frost. <br/>  </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How often should I water succulent plants?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Succulents thrive in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Typically, water your succulent plants once per week when it has not rained. <br/>  </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is artificial grass pet-friendly?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">There are many types of artificial turf, including pet-friendly turf, that are specially designed for your furry family members to be stain and odor resistant and easy to clean.<br/> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Professional Dallas Landscape Maintenance</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Low-maintenance landscaping is the first step to reclaiming your weekends. Unfortunately, low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance, and you will still find yourself stuck outside in the blistering sun.&nbsp;<br>Instead of wasting your time on lawn maintenance, consider letting Wikilawn hook you up with a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">local landscaping company</a> that can handle all of your lawn care needs so you can get back to Margarita Mile.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/rkramer62/4608457413/\" target=\"_blank\">Rachel Kramer</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Dallas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1789c/Landscaping-Garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/107df/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/293e9/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/f2cbb/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 800w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1789c/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 960w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/c26c2/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1dd6e/Landscaping-Garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/67b76/Landscaping-Garden.webp 320w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/8df11/Landscaping-Garden.webp 500w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/98a65/Landscaping-Garden.webp 800w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1dd6e/Landscaping-Garden.webp 960w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/3cc96/Landscaping-Garden.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Dallas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Spend more time tending to your BBQ with these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Dallas, including the estimated cost of each."}}},{"node":{"id":"7f1dec31-6783-56fd-935f-e41331b8e2c7","slug":"dallas-homeowners-how-to-care-for-st-augustine-grass","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/dallas-homeowners-how-to-care-for-st-augustine-grass/","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":"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":"July 3rd, 2018","excerpt":"<p>Caring for St. Augustine grass St. Augustine grass thrives in Dallas, Texas making it a favorite for homeowners in the area. The grass is tolerant to the Texas heat, can survive small periods of droughts and can grow in just about any soil type. The grass is characterized by its dark green hue and dense [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"<h2>Caring for St. Augustine grass</h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">St. Augustine grass thrives in Dallas, Texas making it a favorite for homeowners in the area. The grass is tolerant to the Texas heat, can survive small periods of droughts and can grow in just about any soil type. The grass is characterized by its dark green hue and dense carpet-like cover. As a warm-season grass, it grows best in warm and humid areas. Its resilience to heat makes it an easy choice for any southern state, and getting on a regular maintenance schedule can keep this lawn flourishing for years. </span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starting New</span></h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-195\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-augustine-sod-patch-dallas-tx-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-augustine-sod-patch-dallas-tx-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-augustine-sod-patch-dallas-tx-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-augustine-sod-patch-dallas-tx-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-augustine-sod-patch-dallas-tx-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-augustine-sod-patch-dallas-tx-1080x810.jpg 1080w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-augustine-sod-patch-dallas-tx.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" /></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Photo: homemadeaustin.com</em></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">St. Augustine grass comes as sod, sprigs or plugs and is best planted between May and August. Measure the desired area to ensure you buy enough materials and then begin the prepping process. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with raking or tilling the lawn until the soil is loose. Be sure to get rid of all weeds, whether by pulling them or applying a herbicide. If there are leftover weeds they will grow into the new lawn. There are soils offered that are designed specifically to enhance growth and nourishment through the early stages of a new lawn. Use this to fill in low spots around the lawn. Lay the sod, sprigs or plugs around the yard and sprinkle a slow-release starter fertilizer. Avoid using other fertilizers because they may damage the new grass. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Begin watering two times per day for the first three weeks after planting, then move towards a regular watering schedule. Make sure not to flood the new grass to keep it from catching a disease or fungus. To ensure this, water in the early morning and early afternoon while the sun is out. </span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seasonal Care</span></h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spring</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As soon as the grass begins to turn green again from winter dormancy its time to up your water regimen to two times a week and start a regular mowing schedule. The first of the grass clippings will help to fertilize the lawn so it’s best not to bag them. About three weeks after the grass turns green apply fertilizer to the lawn. Springtime is an important marker in lawn care for deciding how lush your grass will be for the growing seasons. </span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Summer</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">St. Augustine grass does great in the summer with proper care from the spring. Measure the amount of water the lawn gets per week from rain and supplement that with watering. The lawn should get about an inch of water each week. Watering twice a week is recommended. Use the same mowing schedule as spring season during summer. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apply a 2nd fertilizer 8 to 10 weeks after spring fertilization for the best growth throughout the end of summer. </span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fall</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Texas’ autumn seasons can feel like a continuation of summer. With that in mind St. Augustine grass will continue to flourish in warmer seasons, so until cooler days, continue the regular mowing and water schedule from spring and summer. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> During cooler days, the grass will start to turn brown as it goes dormant. The grass will only need to be watered periodically at this point. Be aware of warmer, windy and dry days because this is when the lawn will need a little water.  </span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Winter</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During the winter season, the lawn will be dormant so there is not much upkeep at this point. Do not apply any fertilizer in the months of December through February. </span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local Pests </span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chinch Bugs are common in St. Augustine grass, especially in the summer. They love heat and the lawn will give them a steady stream of food. Watering the lawn regularly and keeping the lawn healthy will proactively keep the pests away. If, however, the pests are already present, investing in a pesticide may be the only way to get your lawn back. Look out for any patches of yellow grass as this can be a sign of pests. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fire ants are the bane of every Texan’s existence. These little pests usually find their way into St. Augustine grass as well. Pesticides tend to be the first response to these suckers, however, if you are opting for a more natural remedy, a 3 percent dish soap to water formula can get rid of them. </span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watering</span></h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-196\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watering-st-augustine-grass-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watering-st-augustine-grass-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watering-st-augustine-grass-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watering-st-augustine-grass-768x511.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watering-st-augustine-grass-1080x718.jpg 1080w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watering-st-augustine-grass.jpg 2008w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" /></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Photo: agrilife.org</em></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watering is essential for any lawn, but especially so in Texas. St. Augustine grass is only slightly drought resistant, so monitoring how much rain the lawn gets is very important. Watering the lawn twice a week is good for this grass. The best time frame to water is early morning and early evening. </span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watering Restrictions for Dallas</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The city of Dallas has a strict two times per week watering schedule. Depending on the last digit of your address there are certain days allotted for watering. Even numbers are Sundays and Thursdays, odd numbers are Saturdays and Wednesdays and no address numbers fall on Sundays and Thursdays as well. Watering is prohibited between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the days watering is allowed. These policies have been in place since 2012 to ensure that there will be water in the future for a growing population.</span></p>\n<p>Still have lawn care questions that need to be answered? Visit our Dallas, TX lawn care page or read what&#8217;s going on in your state.</p>\n","title":"Dallas Homeowners: How to Care for St. Augustine Grass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/1789c/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/107df/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 320w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/293e9/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 500w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/f2cbb/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 800w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/1789c/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 960w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/4fb49/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/1dd6e/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/67b76/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 320w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/8df11/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 500w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/98a65/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 800w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/1dd6e/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 960w,\n/static/cb246d4ffa629ee73038f42c9c05e4c3/62477/st-augustine-grass-dallas-tx.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Dallas Homeowners: How to Care for St. Augustine Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"f8402ea9-7286-5c80-b1b0-2227ee7ade2f","slug":"watering-restrictions-dallas-irving-plano","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/watering-restrictions-dallas-irving-plano/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"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/"},{"id":"f47748ec-2ca2-5e01-9cbd-e56dc7932c0d","name":"Zone 8a","count":3,"path":"/category/zone-8a/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"<p>It’s shaping up to be a fantastic 2019 in Texas, at least when it comes to drought. As the year began, more than 95% of the state was NOT in drought, and water levels were at their highest since the early 1990s. It’s certainly a very different picture than it was 10 years ago when [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>It’s shaping up to be a fantastic 2019 in Texas, at least when it comes to drought. As the year began, more than 95% of the state was NOT in drought, and water levels were at their highest since the early 1990s. It’s certainly a very different picture than it was 10 years ago when Texas survived <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https://stateimpact.npr.org/texas/2011/11/29/a-history-of-drought-and-extreme-weather-in-texas/\" target=\"_blank\">intense drought</a> across much of the state. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>That doesn&#8217;t mean you can go wild with your sprinklers and water your yard every day. Most local governments learned their lesson in that bad drought — and many cities have watering restrictions that remain in place.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dallas</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Texas was still in that bad drought when the Dallas City Council passed permanent watering restrictions for homes and businesses inside city limits. It was an attempt to be proactive about the water supply. Now years later, it looks like it has helped. And don’t worry too much about those summer days with highs in the triple digits. Lawn care experts say your grass only needs a long drink of water every five days or so. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Everyone may turn on the sprinklers twice a week in Dallas:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Those whose addresses end in an even number can water on Sundays and Thursdays. </li><li>Those with addresses ending in an odd number can use their sprinklers on Saturdays and Wednesdays.</li><li> In the rare case that there isn’t an address — that sprinkler schedule is Sundays and Thursdays too. </li><li>You can also use drip irrigation, soaker hoses, or hand water any day of the week without risking a fine.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/yb8BZj2rfxbF1FrPupAxtzjFboqiornaozr1Nk5aH5nsSHs0IOYroNp20TnwrDtel79NAZJIC5zW0ZJdSP08sgmEf1KHGkkPIN13xcAmJn1mnusFBL4dxPQnZFIN1D_-qw\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><a href=\"https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1200/1%2AF2cYM4iTZEU9KpaDsDPcug.jpeg\">Source</a></figcaption></figure></div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plano</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The city of Plano also has recommended watering guidelines for 2019, and like Dallas, it’s a twice-weekly schedule:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Addresses ending in an even number should water on Mondays and Thursdays.</li><li> Addresses ending in an odd number are scheduled to let it sprinkle on Tuesdays and Fridays.</li><li>Watering between 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the hottest hours of the day is prohibited. It’s also <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/dallas-lawn-watering-guide-for-spring-summer/\">bad for the lawn</a> since watering in the heat of the day tends to put stress on the grass. The grass needs time to absorb the water when it’s cool, and watering at night just invites mildew and disease.</li><li>You can water by drip irrigation or hand, any day of the week.</li></ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/JTAt7d0c4LxAakTsSgtYmoAcfZFW1ZPb7bDHUKNRijP3yMu8Aw-EJg31U69zOrwzBG_ZmM-3_4-jdlnSiuOglZEEHC7_1QJKNt66s2oMyFPe6eydX3SXWzJqiUwIEKOvCw\" alt=\"\"/><figcaption><a href=\"https://fthmb.tqn.com/4Pm45SW3ZIGTEjMs4MkiCFsFqjw=/768x0/filters:no_upscale()/howtomakeasoakerhose-56a338a05f9b58b7d0d0fccf.jpg\">Source</a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Irving</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the City of Irving:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Watering is prohibited between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 1 to Oct. 31. (It&#8217;s for the same reason it’s illegal in Plano. Those are the hottest times of the day, during the hottest time of the year in a region that&#8217;s famous for its heat. </li><li>No one may turn on their sprinklers in Irving on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. </li><li>People with addresses ending in even numbers may use the sprinkler on Tuesdays and Saturdays.</li><li>People at addresses ending in odd numbers can do it on Wednesday and Sundays. </li></ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The city also recommends planting low-maintenance, drought-resistant plants for your yard. Native flowers like hibiscus and verbena are easy to care for and need little watering. It&#8217;s also helpful if you install plumbing fixtures and appliances that conserve water.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live in another city in the Metroplex that isn’t mentioned here, it’s pretty easy to search your city or county government’s website for watering restrictions. The restrictions are likely to be similar to the ones enacted by Dallas, Plano, and Irving. In a drought-prone state like Texas, we’re all in it together — and every drop of water counts.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Do you want to know more about lawn care in the DFW? Visit our <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/tx/dallas/\">Dallas, TX lawn care page</a> for more guides and additional information.</em></p>\n","title":"Watering Restrictions in Dallas, Irving and Plano","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.585139318885449,"src":"/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/1789c/sprinkler-1024x646.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/107df/sprinkler-1024x646.jpg 320w,\n/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/293e9/sprinkler-1024x646.jpg 500w,\n/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/f2cbb/sprinkler-1024x646.jpg 800w,\n/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/1789c/sprinkler-1024x646.jpg 960w,\n/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/a2a79/sprinkler-1024x646.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/1dd6e/sprinkler-1024x646.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/67b76/sprinkler-1024x646.webp 320w,\n/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/8df11/sprinkler-1024x646.webp 500w,\n/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/98a65/sprinkler-1024x646.webp 800w,\n/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/1dd6e/sprinkler-1024x646.webp 960w,\n/static/d3934d26de4455ac3471f7ebe1c836a5/7aa54/sprinkler-1024x646.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Watering Restrictions in Dallas, Irving and Plano | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Water is a precious resource in DFW, so local governments are doing their best to protect it. Here's a list of the watering restrictions in DFW."}}}],"postCity":{"node":{"name":"Dallas","slug":"dallas","state":{"name":"Texas","slug":"tx"},"suburbs":[{"name":"Flower Mound","slug":"flower-mound"},{"name":"Plano","slug":"plano"},{"name":"Richardson","slug":"richardson"},{"name":"Balch Springs","slug":"balch-springs"},{"name":"Carrollton","slug":"carrollton"},{"name":"Cedar Hill","slug":"cedar-hill"},{"name":"Desoto","slug":"desoto"},{"name":"Quinlan","slug":"quinlan"},{"name":"Duncanville","slug":"duncanville"},{"name":"Rockwall","slug":"rockwall"},{"name":"Farmersville","slug":"farmersville"},{"name":"Coppell","slug":"coppell"},{"name":"Frisco","slug":"frisco"},{"name":"Rowlett","slug":"rowlett"},{"name":"Little Elm","slug":"little-elm"},{"name":"The Colony","slug":"the-colony"},{"name":"Garland","slug":"garland"},{"name":"Lewisville","slug":"lewisville"},{"name":"Royse City","slug":"royse-city"},{"name":"Mesquite","slug":"mesquite"},{"name":"Midlothian","slug":"midlothian"},{"name":"Prosper","slug":"prosper"},{"name":"Sachse","slug":"sachse"},{"name":"Addison","slug":"addison"},{"name":"Aubrey","slug":"aubrey"},{"name":"Denton","slug":"denton"},{"name":"Ennis","slug":"ennis"},{"name":"Allen","slug":"allen"},{"name":"Grand Prairie","slug":"grand-prairie"},{"name":"Argyle","slug":"argyle"},{"name":"Greenville","slug":"greenville"},{"name":"Irving","slug":"irving"},{"name":"Wylie","slug":"wylie"},{"name":"Lancaster","slug":"lancaster"}],"parentCity":null}}}}}