![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_5501710064_6f35aee311_o.jpg\")
Keeping a beautiful lawn and garden is less about hiring the best professionals or purchasing the most expensive lawn care products and more about knowing the best time to do certain activities. For example, planting mums in the springtime is most likely going to result in a failure as mums are best planted in the […]
\n","content":"Keeping a beautiful lawn and garden is less about hiring the best professionals or purchasing the most expensive lawn care products and more about knowing the best time to do certain activities. For example, planting mums in the springtime is most likely going to result in a failure as mums are best planted in the fall before any threat of frost sets in. Similarly, watering your lawn during the middle of a scorching, summer day will cause much of the water being lost to evaporation and could often cause your lawn to suffer from water stress.
\nFurthermore, taking care of a lawn and garden will be substantially different in Minnesota than in Florida. While planting out your flower bed in Miami might be possible in early February, you would have a hard time breaking the frozen ground in Minneapolis at that same time of year. Knowing the specifics of your planting and heat zones where you live is important. However, the specific guidelines for the optimum times to do certain lawn and garden activities can vary widely even within certain plant hardiness zones.
\nFor Houston, Texas residents, the average high temperature of 62 degrees in January means that we lived in an extremely privileged part of the country when it comes to maintaining a beautiful lawn and garden year round. The heat and humidity of the summer months, however, can be a challenge for certain homeowners trying to keep their lawn and ornamental gardens healthy and vigorous during those summer heat waves when temperatures in the high 90s are a daily occurrence. Below, we offer a complete breakdown of the most essential summer garden and lawn care tasks for Houston homeowners.
\nWhile much of the country is finally enjoying the arrival of the warmer temperatures of spring, Houston residents have been enjoying average temperatures above 70 degrees since March. One of the most important activities for May is to prepare your lawn for the barrage of hot summer temperatures that are set to arrive. Broadcasting a slow-release fertilizer is a great idea to help strengthen the root systems while also increasing the resiliency of the plant to droughts that can be common in late summer and autumn. Slow release fertilizer formulas designed for lawns, such as 15-5-10 can be spread dry over the lawn. However, the fact that we average well over 5 inches of rain in May should mean that a couple of afternoon showers will help to activate the fertilizer so that it can be best used by the grass.
\nMay is also a good time to control chinch bugs that are reproducing around your home and probably causing damage to your lawn. While there are several pesticide options to control this common lawn pest, you can also use organic controls such as applying diatomaceous earth around your lawn or spraying your lawn with a biodegradable soap that will penetrate the exoskeleton of these bugs and cause them to die.
\nLastly, if you have a decent sized flower garden, it might be a good idea to apply a bit of chelated iron to the base of your flowering plants. The high temperatures of summer can cause flowering plants to suffer from iron deficiency, thus yellowing leaves and sometimes causing the plant to die. A bit of chelated iron will go a long way in helping to avoid this common problem.
\nJune is the wettest month in the Houston area with close to 6 inches of average rainfall. The abundance of rain and warm temperatures usually leads to abundant foliar growth in your ornamental shrubs. Early June, then, is a great time to get out the pruning shears. By pruning back your bushes and hedges early in the season, you can effectively stunt their growth and thus make it easier to keep them the size you want. Of course, subsequent pruning in later summer and autumn will also most likely be necessary.
\nThe early spring flowers that you planted in January and February will most likely be done flowering by June, thus giving you an excuse to replant other flowers. Perennial flowering plants are a great option if you have some extra space around your home. Pink Autumn sage offers yearly pink flowers that are incredibly aromatic and bloom almost year round. They are also very drought tolerant. Another option for perennial flowers is verbena. This plant can flower pink, purple or red, and is a great groundcover for areas around your home that will keep the weeds at bay.
\nLastly, if you have any overgrown trees around your home, pruning large tree limbs might be a good idea before hurricane season begins.
\nDuring July, the heat really picks up in the Houston area. To protect your lawn, it is a good idea to raise your lawnmower to 4 inches height. This will protect the grass against droughts and heat as extra moisture can be stored in the longer, individual blades.
\nIf your lawn has an automatic irrigation system, you will want to run it continuously during July, especially during dry spells. If you are irrigating fruit or ornamental trees in your yard, July is a month when you want to make sure that the root areas of your trees are being slow-soaked at least once a week. If you are using sprinklers, make sure to only run them at night as this will help limit the amount of water you use through minimizing evaporation.
\nAlso, in July you might spot fairy rings popping up around your yard and garden. While these strange looking creatures might cause alarm for some homeowners, they are simply a type of mushroom indicating healthy soil with an abundance of organic matter.
\nAugust is a great time to set out your hummingbird feeders around your garden. Migrating hummingbird species generally past through the Houston area this month and they are a delight for gardeners. You can attract them by simply boiling 4 cups of water and 1 cup of sugar to make a delectable nectar that they will love.
\nAlso, if you have cacti plants in your garden, you will want to let the roots completely dry out before replanting. Digging up fresh cacti roots will usually kill off the plants. Since August is usually the month when most fungal and bacterial infections of plants prosper, you might consider spraying your ornamental and edible plants with a seaweed spray. These sprays are full of essential plant nutrients and will boost their immune systems in order to help them avoid certain diseases.
\nThere are dozens of other activities that could (and should) be done around the garden and lawn throughout the summer. The fast growth of plants and grasses mean that you will most likely spend a fair amount of time mowing and pruning. For garden lovers, however, there is simply nothing better than being outside on a cool, summer evening, watching hummingbirds float through your flowers in full bloom.
\nHave more lawn care or gardening questions? Visit our Houston, TX lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"A Monthly Lawn Care Checklist for Houston, TX Homeowners","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.499267935578331,"src":"/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/1789c/houston-tx-home.jpg","srcSet":"/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/107df/houston-tx-home.jpg 320w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/293e9/houston-tx-home.jpg 500w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/f2cbb/houston-tx-home.jpg 800w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/1789c/houston-tx-home.jpg 960w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/a2a79/houston-tx-home.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/1dd6e/houston-tx-home.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/67b76/houston-tx-home.webp 320w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/8df11/houston-tx-home.webp 500w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/98a65/houston-tx-home.webp 800w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/1dd6e/houston-tx-home.webp 960w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/7aa54/houston-tx-home.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"A Monthly Lawn Care Checklist for Houston, TX Homeowners | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"322c3368-91bf-5d1a-a97a-03f66b25f3ce","slug":"best-native-plants-los-angeles","path":"/lawn-care/ca/los-angeles/best-native-plants-los-angeles/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"6ef486ca-ccd1-5849-a339-3c49569b40f6","name":"Los Angeles","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/los-angeles/"}],"date":"March 29th, 2023","excerpt":"There’s a reason one of Los Angeles’ nicknames is City of Flowers and Sunshine: Its Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal location for growing plants. But not every plant is ideal for every climate. If you want an amazing garden, it’s always best to choose native plants that can thrive in the area. Let’s take […]
\n","content":"\nThere’s a reason one of Los Angeles’ nicknames is City of Flowers and Sunshine: Its Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal location for growing plants. But not every plant is ideal for every climate. If you want an amazing garden, it’s always best to choose native plants that can thrive in the area.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a look at 10 of the best native plants for LA.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThere are all kinds of reasons to use native plants, the most important being that they are well-adapted to your climate, so they have a greater likelihood of surviving and thriving under the unique conditions in your area. Here is why:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Chris Samuel / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBuckwheat plants are not only stunning but also known for being healthy and nutritious. They bloom in late spring, and various beneficial wildlife is attracted to their flowers. You can expect to enjoy them together with birds, bees, and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nYou can pick from eight different types of LA-native buckwheat. For example, California buckwheat is particularly attractive to honey bees. On the other hand, the Bernardino dotted-blue butterfly feasts on ashyleaf buckwheat.
\n\n\n\nBuckwheat plants have short growing seasons, need little care, and can keep weeds from growing. Some types of buckwheat don’t tolerate cold weather well, so check your area’s hardiness zone and the plant’s hardiness before you buy it.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habbit: Sub-shrub
Mature size: 1 to 6 feet tall
Duration: Annual
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Dry or mostly dry, well-draining soils
Maintenance needs: Cut back every few years to encourage healthy new growth and control shape
Potential hazards: None known (if consumed in moderation)
![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1culinary-sage-quotsalvia-officinalisquot.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nSage comes in various, stunning colors that bloom in the summer. And sage plants are generally seen as non-toxic if consumed in small quantities.
\n\n\n\nThere are 13 species of sage native to Los Angeles, and each plant is unique in its own way. For example, black sage is among the most popular types of sage. Hummingbird sage, on the other hand, attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators and birds with its bright red flowers.
\n\n\n\nSome types of sage tolerate cold well, and some don’t, so check your area’s hardiness zone and the plant’s hardiness before you buy it.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
Mature size: 1 to 2 feet tall
Duration: Perennial or annual depending on species and location
Foliage: Varies by type but often deciduous in Los Angeles’ dry climate
Sunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade
Soil preferences: Any well-draining soil
Maintenance needs: Prune lightly in spring; remove dead flowers to encourage more blooms
Potential hazards: Toxic when eaten in high or consistent doses; toxicity levels depend on growing conditions and season
![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_5965186545_e6a73bf093_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: chuck b. / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCalifornia fuchsia brighten your garden with their vibrant red-orange flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. It’s a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. California fuchsia is favored by hummingbirds, as well as other pollinators and birds. It’s a great option to bring wildlife into your yard while improving your home’s curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Sub-shrub
Mature size: 3 to 18 inches tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Semi-evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Any well-draining soil
Maintenance needs: Cut back to the ground after flowering season to promote healthy new growth; water once a month during summer in dry areas
Potential hazards: None known for humans nor most animals
![\"Light](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_800px-ceanothus_-_california_lilac.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Changku88 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nCalifornia lilac is a beautiful and low-maintenance shrub. It produces vibrant blue, purple, pink, or white flowers in the spring and summer. It’s also drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators, butterflies, and moths. California lilac is suitable for the warmest parts of LA, where temperatures don’t go below 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Check your minimum local temperature here.
\n\n\n\nThere’s a variety of options to choose from. Nine kinds of California lilac are native to Los Angeles, ranging from the rare San Diego ceanothus to the more common buck brush.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
Mature size: 1 to 6 feet tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun, some afternoon shade in hotter areas
Soil preferences: Any well-draining soil
Maintenance needs: Lightly prune and remove dead limbs as needed
Potential hazards: None known
![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4666396689_7a12cff0ca_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Staley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe flowers of the flannel bush plant are large and showy. They bloom in late spring to early summer. Bees and butterflies are attracted to their deep yellow to orange-red blossoms. The plant can grow tall if you take care of it, so it works well for homeowners who want extra privacy.
\n\n\n\nTake note that the flannel bush is suitable for areas where temperatures don’t go below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Check your local minimum temperature here.
\n\n\n\nThe plant itself isn’t toxic. However, its stem and leaves can irritate skin and eyes upon contact, so be cautious.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
Mature size: 6 to 20 feet tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Well-draining, sandy soils
Maintenance needs: Avoid summer watering and severe pruning, as these can kill the plant
Potential hazards: Toxic stem and leaves that can irritate skin and eyes
![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/plant-fruit-berry-flower-food-red-443747-pxhere.com-1-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nToyon, also called the California Holly, can be a shrub or a small tree that grows tall quickly when it receives the right care. It’s superb for attracting local wildlife. The plant has white flowers that bloom in the summer and attract pollinators and birds.
\n\n\n\nToyon then produces red berries in the winter. It’s a popular food source for mockingbirds, American robins, and cedar waxwings. Be cautious, though, because they’re toxic to other animals and humans.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub or small tree
Mature size: 6 to 10 feet typically, can reach up to 30 feet
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade
Soil preferences: Tolerates most soil types
Maintenance needs: Prune as needed to maintain desired shape and height
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_5039631314_ddce7f9f0e_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter O’Connor aka anemoneprojectors / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nYou’ve almost certainly seen the common yarrow in meadows and along roadsides, with its white, pink, or yellow flower clusters. It is a hardy perennial that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. It’s beneficial for birds like starlings, who gather common yarrow for their nests. If you want a charming, easy-care plant that attracts both birds and pollinators, common yarrow may be a great choice.
\n\n\n\nTake note, though, that the plant is toxic and shouldn’t be ingested. It can also cause irritation if touched.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
Mature size: 1 to 3 feet tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Semi-evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
Soil preferences: Tolerates most soil types
Maintenance needs: Cut off dead flowers to encourage more blooms; treat common problems like aphids, mildew, and stem rot as needed
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_800px-opuntia_littoralis_upper_newport_bay_feb_2014_08.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Nandaro / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThe coastal prickly pear is an easy-care, attractive cactus plant. It does well in the warmest parts of LA, where temperatures don’t go below 25 degrees Fahrenheit (check your local minimum temperature here). This cactus has oval branches and bears purplish fruits. Its flowers bloom from spring to summer and support pollinators and birds.
\n\n\n\nHowever, keep in mind that the plant and its fruits are prickly and highly toxic for dogs and other animals. Although people like to snack on the plant’s fruit, some of its other parts are mildly toxic for humans, too. There isn’t enough data about the safety of coastal prickly pear fruit or pads, so vulnerable people such as children and pregnant women should avoid eating them.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to know if you can enjoy the fruit of your coastal prickly pear or not, make sure you discuss your diet with a medical professional.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Cactus
Mature size: 1 to 2 feet tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Sandy soils
Maintenance needs: Make sure roots don’t get too damp, otherwise they’ll rot.
Potential hazards: Prickly; highly toxic for pets, especially dogs; mildly toxic for humans; not enough data regarding the safety of its fruit or pads
![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_blue-eyed-grass-wildflowers-1533299474atm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nWestern blue-eyed grass, also called the California blue-eyed grass, has delicate blue flowers. It requires little maintenance and is even considered fire-resistant. Additionally, it attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. You can consider planting this flower in your yard for a pop of color and ecological benefits.
\n\n\n\nMost types of blue-eyed grass aren’t toxic, but there isn’t enough data to determine the effects of western blue-eyed grass. It can also be easily confused for many similar-looking plants which are highly poisonous. Caution is advised.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
Mature size: 1 to 2 feet tall
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Summer semi-deciduous
Sunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade
Soil preferences: Moist loam soils
Maintenance needs: Water occasionally during summer droughts
Potential hazards: May be toxic and can be easily confused for similar-looking highly toxic plants
![\"Light](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_16686130046_1524d40e6c_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nBeardtongues are a lovely family of flowers, some of which are native to Los Angeles. LA-native beardtongues range between purple, pink, and red to yellow.
\n\n\n\nOne of the most popular kinds of beardtongue is showy penstemon. Showy penstemon is a stunning herb that attracts birds and various insects. Other native beardtongue kinds are the climbing penstemon, the foothill penstemon, the southern foothill penstemon, and the yellow bush penstemon.
\n\n\n\nHowever, beardtongues have toxic effects, so be careful to keep children and pets away from them.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Sub-shrub
Mature size: 6 inches to 4 feet tall depending on species
Duration: Perennial
Foliage: Some species are evergreen, while others are deciduous
Sunlight needs: Full sun
Soil preferences: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils
Maintenance needs: Water 1 inch per week in summer; cut back stems after flowering season
Potential hazards: Toxic
There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing Los Angeles natives for your landscape. Make sure to consider your options carefully and pick plants that meet your specific needs and preferences.
\n\n\n\nBe mindful of potential hazards such as toxicity, and do your research to protect your family and pets. Some plants are more toxic than others, but to be on the safe side, you should always keep your pets from eating your garden plants.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, you need to pick plants that are suitable for your hardiness zone. Los Angeles hardiness zones range from 7a to 11a, depending on the area. This means that LAs’ lowest temperatures are between 0 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nAll of the plants in this article can grow in all of Los Angeles’s temperatures, except where mentioned otherwise. You can check your local minimum temperature here.
\n\n\n\nCheck your yard, and you might just find that some native plants have already made a home there. But if you want to plant new natives, never take them directly from the wild because it can disrupt local ecosystems and harm wildlife.
\n\n\n\nInstead, there are ethical sources that can help. Consider purchasing from local plant nurseries that specialize in native plants, such as:
\n\n\n\nPicking beautiful new plants for your yard is a fun experience. Once you’ve decided on the types of plants you want, it’s time to think about other factors that will make your lawn thrive and look its best. Make sure you get the right grass type for your area and that you take care of your lawn properly at each time of the year.
\n\n\n\nIf you want your native plant garden to stay healthy and beautiful, consider hiring one of WikiLawn’s local pros who can handle your landscaping needs.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Udo Schmidt / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Los Angeles","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.6216216216216217,"src":"/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/1789c/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.jpg","srcSet":"/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/107df/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.jpg 320w,\n/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/293e9/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.jpg 500w,\n/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/f2cbb/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.jpg 800w,\n/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/1789c/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.jpg 960w,\n/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/c26c2/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/1dd6e/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/67b76/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.webp 320w,\n/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/8df11/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.webp 500w,\n/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/98a65/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.webp 800w,\n/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/1dd6e/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.webp 960w,\n/static/02562bb55eec8c43160f242e1cc20904/3cc96/rsz_7806866410_505a383cbb_k.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Los Angeles | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Native plants are easier to maintain and better for the environment. Find the best native plants for LA here."}}},{"node":{"id":"f608fbe5-2120-5d01-a50c-a9820f45fa6e","slug":"difference-between-dead-and-dormant-grass","path":"/blog/home-and-garden/difference-between-dead-and-dormant-grass/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"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/"}],"date":"October 9th, 2019","excerpt":"Grass can go kaput any time of year. The hot, dry conditions of summer can leave grass brown and unappealing. Winter snow mold and thatch buildup can leave your grass with dead spots. But is it really dead? Or just dormant? Before taking any action, it’s worth your time to determine if you have a […]
\n","content":"\nGrass can go kaput any time of year. The hot, dry conditions of summer can leave grass brown and unappealing. Winter snow mold and thatch buildup can leave your grass with dead spots. But is it really dead? Or just dormant?
\n\n\n\nBefore taking any action, it’s worth your time to determine if you have a dead lawn or just one that’s taking a nap. You don’t want to rip up a living lawn. Nor do you want to waste time mowing, watering, fertilizing, and trying to revive grass that isn’t coming back.
\n\n\n\nDead grass and dormant grass look much the same. It can be tough to tell the difference, but here’s what the experts say about discerning dead from dormant.
\n\n\n\nDeath is final. But dormancy, while it can look similar, is your lawn’s natural reaction to stress. Even warm-season grasses may turn brown due to the stress of summer’s hot, dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nIf less than half your lawn is dead or you can see surviving green shoots among the brown, crunchy blades of grass, it’s worth a try to save it. It will be less costly than re-sodding the entire lawn. Aerate the lawn. Power aerators work best. Rent one if you don’t own one. Raking the yard will help remove much of the dead grass. Be sure to take up thatch and other debris. Add new grass seed where needed and fertilize and water.
\n\n\n\nIf the entire lawn is dead, there’s no way to save it. It’s time to start over by re-seeding or re-sodding the entire area.
\n\n\n\nDormancy is a lawn’s reaction to heat and a lack of water. The plant gives all its resources to the roots, rather than the leaves. While brown grass may not look very appealing, dormancy is normal and usually lasts around four weeks. As the season’s change and weather conditions become more ideal for grass, your healthy lawn should return. Still, there are some things you can do to push it along a bit.
\n\n\n\nStay away from weed killers and herbicides during dormancy. It can damage already stressed lawns, and it may turn out insects weren’t the problem after all. Kelley Klopp of the Utah State Extension office says, “It is often difficult to diagnose insect problems when the grass is dormant. Be certain you are dealing with an insect problem before using insecticides, and always read and follow label directions.”
\n\n\n\n![\"Watering](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Andw9lRYwcV2ira3fBZXtJbm0tik_FO1QDPhsTv36DbNUSEpQ8J3EOf6TygqImw1exrMUgvfHpHPH5_7qseCijSk4J0Cv2psjB1jEMRWalCOjdiTAx1Q8oKuPuueIeeaUoGrqmHW\")
You can change the design of your yard to help your lawn make it through a drought. Reduce the setting on your mower blades and keep the grass a bit longer. Reduce slopes, if possible, so water doesn’t run downhill and off the grass. Put a greater distance between trees and shrubs and prune regularly, keeping shade to a minimum. And add good topsoil, if necessary.
\n\n\n\nAlso, consider the climate where you live and choose an appropriate turfgrass. Cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue, thrive in temperatures between 68 and 77 degrees. Building a lawn from these varieties in a hot, dry climate can send them into dormancy early. It can also cause the grass to die. They fare much better in northern parts of the country.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses work well in temperatures of 80 to 95 degrees, as they’re more drought-tolerant. They include Bermuda grass, Buffalo grass, and Zoysia grass, one of the better turfgrasses for hot climates. These lawns are usually started from sod, as they are more challenging to grow from grass seed than cool-season types.
\n\n\n\nBefore you ask “Why is my lawn dying?” make sure it’s not just taking a nap. With a little TLC (tender lawn care,) you’ll have a green lawn again before you know it.
Austin temperatures climb as spring turns into summer and rainfall becomes scarce. Add inconsistent soil and constant city construction, and maintaining a healthy lawn isn’t easy. It takes hard work and vigilance. However, if you follow our guide to summer lawn care in Austin, you can rest easy knowing you’re giving your lawn a fighting […]
\n","content":"\nAustin temperatures climb as spring turns into summer and rainfall becomes scarce. Add inconsistent soil and constant city construction, and maintaining a healthy lawn isn’t easy. It takes hard work and vigilance. However, if you follow our guide to summer lawn care in Austin, you can rest easy knowing you’re giving your lawn a fighting chance.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith an average temperature of 96 degrees Fahrenheit and only three days of rain in July and August, it’s safe to say Austin’s summers are hot and dry. Both heat and low rain stress your lawn, making it vulnerable. Proper summer lawn maintenance–like watering, mowing, dealing with pest or disease problems, and more–is vital to a healthy, vibrant, backyard party-worthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe best lawn care maintenance plan starts with understanding your soil and choosing the best type for your lawn. From there, fertilize when needed, aerate, dethatch, and maintain your grass with good watering and mowing practices. Fall all this up by protecting your lawn from ugly, Austin lawn problems, like pests, diseases, and weeds.
\n\n\n\nWith the high temperatures and low rainfall, warm-season grass types thrive in Austin lawns. However, warm-season grasses go dormant in the fall and winter, so mixing in cool-season grass cultivars allows Austinites to have a gorgeous, green lawn year-round. Here are some of the best grass types for Austin lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bermudagrass-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in regions with hot summers and mild winters. Winter temperatures stress warm-season grasses, and when temperatures drop, these cultivars go dormant and turn brown.
\n\n\n\nLight-green and fine-textured bermudagrass is a popular choice. This fast-growing grass is used in home lawns, sports fields, and parks.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass grows quickly, creating a thick, coarsely textured, dark green lawn. Its nickname is “carpet grass” thanks to its dense appearance.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is soft, fine-textured, and gray-green or blue-green. Although slow-growing, it won’t invade flower beds like many fast-growing grass types.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is light to medium emerald green with medium to fine leaf texture. It grows quickly and stays green longer than most warm-season grass types.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nLike bermudagrass, seashore paspalum is light to medium green with a fine leaf texture. It has a dense root system and grows quickly.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nWhile cool-season grasses grow in the North, preferring cold winters and mild summers, they also thrive in the mild Southern winters. Heat is the major hurdle for cool-season grasses, so they need more energy to stay green when temperatures rise. Eventually, they’ll go dormant in the summer.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lolium_perenne_L._Perennial_Ryegrass_-_cultivated_3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Arthur Chapman / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a fine-textured, medium-green grass. Along with lawns and golf courses, it’s popular for construction areas. It is often used to prevent erosion because of its fast germination rate.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nA hybrid between Kentucky bluegrass and Texas native grass, Texas bluegrass remains green in the summer. Its dark green color lasts longer than most cool-season grasses. This turfgrass is fine-textured and densely growing.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxfuel.com-7-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nEveryone knows Austin likes to “keep it weird,” but you may not know that three ecoregions converge in the city. The Edwards Plateau, the Blackland Prairies, and the Post Oak Savannah Floodplains have different soil types.
\n\n\n\nThe Edwards Plateau covers most of West Austin, with 1st Street being the approximate dividing line. It has the following properties:
\n\n\n\nThe Blackland Prairie covers Northeast Austin near I-290 and Southeast Austin in the Onion Creek area. You can expect to find the following properties:
\n\n\n\nThe Post Oak Savannah Floodplain covers East Austin, downtown through Del Valle. Expect to find:
\n\n\n\nSoil type is only one factor affecting soil quality. Other factors include:
\n\n\n\nTo ensure your soil is in tip-top shape, get your soil tested every one to three years. Once you receive your results, you’ll better understand what your lawn needs, including fertilization.
\n\n\n\nMost lawns will need some fertilization, but too much is harmful. Here are a few fertilizing tips to help you feed your lawn and minimize damage:
\n\n\n\nThe average grass cultivar needs about 0.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn, but each grass type has different needs.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_33362501875_0d0e78d669_o.jpg\")
Photo Credit: UBC Micrometeorology / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nYour watering practices have a significant effect on your lawn’s health. While your grass and native plants are adapted to Austin’s USDA hardiness Zone, 8, they still face high temperatures, drought, and water restrictions.
\n\n\n\nHere are some helpful tips to get the most out of your watering practices:
\n\n\n\nTake a look at the recommended watering amounts for popular grass types in Austin:
\n\n\n\n| Warm-Season Grass Type | Weekly Watering Needs in Inches |
| Bermudagrass | 1.25 |
| Buffalograss | 1 |
| St. Augustinegrass | 1 |
| Zoysiagrass | 1 |
![\"orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Mowing-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Prasannanossam3 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nTo make a significant impact on the health of your lawn, mow like a pro. It is important to know what time to mow, how often to mow, and how high you should mow.
\n\n\n\nHere are some pro mowing tips to keep your lawn looking its best:
\n\n\n\nUnderstanding when to mow is also critical to keeping your lawn green.
\n\n\n\nMowing frequency changes with the seasons. Here’s an optimal mowing schedule for each season:
\n\n\n\n| Season | Mowing Frequency |
| Spring | Once per week |
| Summer | 1-2 times per week |
| Fall | Once every 7-10 days |
| Winter | Rarely, as needed |
The largest factor affecting your mowing frequency is your lawn’s turfgrass cultivar. Here are the recommended summer mowing heights and frequencies for popular Austin grass types.
\n\n\n\n![\"tool](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3409167404_35aeb9659b_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: allispossible.org.uk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nBecause Austin sits on the convergence of three different ecoregions, there are three distinctly different soil types. Two of the three soils are compacted, requiring regular aeration and turfgrass dethatching.
\n\n\n\nAeration involves poking small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients into the lawn. Doing this allows the roots to grow deeply, creating a stronger, more robust lawn.
\n\n\n\nAeration relieves soil compaction. Compacted soils prevent proper absorption of air, water, and nutrients within the soil. Excess organic debris, like leaves and thatch, starve the roots of essential nutrients.
\n\n\n\nThatch is a mixture of dead and living roots, and build-up occurs when turf produces waste faster than the environment can break it down. A little thatch is good as it helps insulate the soil and maintains moisture levels. However, thatch over ½ inch hinders water and nutrient absorption, starving your grass.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, many Austin lawns are prone to thatch build-up, because:
\n\n\n\nSome creeping grass types that are prone to thatch include:
\n\n\n\nIf you need to dethatch, you have a few options. Liquid dethatching increases enzymes and thatch-eating organisms. If thatch build-up is just forming, try a dethatching rake. But if you moderate build-up or more, use a power-driven dethatcher, like a vertical mower.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red_Ants_1214176165.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William Cho / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nBugs are the worst, and since Austin is in the South, we get our fair share of them. Some Austin bugs are nuisances, some carry diseases, and some will destroy your carefully crafted lawn and garden.
\n\n\n\nHere are some annoying, sometimes harmful pests you’ll encounter in your Austin backyard:
\n\n\n\nWhile these common pests are a nuisance and sometimes dangerous to your family and pets, they don’t affect your lawn. However, some lawn pests lay devastation, and you’ll need to intervene quickly.
\n\n\n\nWhile most ants cause damage to your lawn by boring through the dirt, fire ants are awful, creating mounds and messing up your soil and turf. If you step on a mound, you’re in trouble. This invasive species latches on with its barbed mandibles and stabs you repeatedly with its venomous stinger, leaving itchy pus-filled bites that take days to heal.
\n\n\n\nKeep an eye out for dirt mounds in your lawn. If you spot one, apply fire ant bait, following the manufacturer’s directions. Unfortunately, some colonies abandon mounds and create new ones a few yards away. Consider hiring a professional to eliminate the pesky invaders.
\n\n\n\nGrubs are small, fat, white, c-shaped, caterpillar-like insects you often find while gardening or digging. They’re actually beetle larvae, and they feed on your grass’ roots, causing brown spots and dead turf. If you’re unsure if your turfgrass problem is caused by grubs or a disease, tug on the grass blades. If they come out easily, you may have a grub infestation.
\n\n\n\nTo get rid of grubs, use a grub-specific pesticide. Follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully, or you could harm your lawn. Additionally, apply nematodes or milky spores if you want a natural method. Dethatching and aeration help by giving the grubs less to eat.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs are tiny black insects with white wings. While they may be small, they cause colossal problems. They suck the sap from the base and stolons of grass blades and inject a toxic substance that prevents the plant from transporting water. Soon, patches of your lawn will turn yellow, then brown, before dying. The damage will spread until you handle the infestation.
\n\n\n\nBecause the damage often resembles drought stress or disease, you may not realize the problem immediately. Good lawn maintenance–dethatching, aeration, and not overwatering– help control chinch bugs. Applying preventative pesticides in the spring and targeted insecticides in the summer and fall will eliminate the pests.
\n\n\n\nArmyworms are not actually worms. They’re dark brown caterpillars with white, orange, or yellow stripes, and they can wreck your lawn in a few days by gobbling up grass blades. Armyworms are only two inches long but travel in large groups. They typically go unnoticed until the damage is severe.
\n\n\n\nThe best way to prevent armyworms is applying preventative, commercial-grade pesticides and maintaining your lawn. Armyworms prefer a dense, over-thatched, moist lawn, so a well-maintained lawn eliminates their preferred habitat.
\n\n\n\nSome grasses are more susceptible to pests than others. Here’s what you can expect from common Austin grasses:
\n\n\n\nIrrigate and mow your lawn twenty-four hours before insecticide applications. Use a broad-spectrum, non-repellent insecticide containing carbaryl or pyrethroid to treat affected areas. Apply preventative treatments in May before the heat of summer sets in and then another in June.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Brown_Patch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nLawn diseases are not fun to deal with, and if you’re an Austin homeowner, you may know this from personal experience. They’ll turn a stunning lawn into a brown, patchy mess.
\n\n\n\nLawns catch a disease when a trio of factors occur:
\n\n\n\nLet’s look at each of these a little closer:
\n\n\n\nMost diseases need daytime temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures above 55 degrees. They also need moisture from dew, irrigation, or rainfall to infect the blades. Lastly, stressed grass is easier to infect and a strong, healthy lawn is more resistant to attack.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, we can’t control the weather, but we can take steps to reduce stress and encourage growth. Here are some key tips to encourage a strong lawn:
\n\n\n\nBecause most lawn diseases are fungal, use a fungicide to eliminate problems. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions. Too much fungicide will burn your grass, and too little won’t be effective.
\n\n\n\nIf you’d rather treat the fungus naturally, there are several solutions:
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_stellaria_media_common_chickweed_ჟუნჟრუკი.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lazaregagnidze / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLike diseases, weeds love an unhealthy lawn. If you see weeds, some underlying problems include low-nitrogen, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf. Weeds suck up vital nutrients, water, and sunlight from your turfgrass while simultaneously creating an ideal environment for pests and diseases. To control weeds, maintain a healthy lawn with routine maintenance.
\n\n\n\nThere 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.
\n\n\n\nFollow these summer weeding tips:
\n\n\n\nBefore you blink, weeds take over and ruin your gorgeous green grass. Here are five common Austin weeds:
\n\n\n\nCheck out our guide covering the 12 worst weeds in Austin to learn more.
\n\n\n\nSome grass types are more resistant to weeds than others. Check out the most common Austin grass types:
\n\n\n\nLawn maintenance can be overwhelming, but there are some steps you can take to create a low-maintenance Austin lawn that will save time and money.
• Xeriscape: low-maintenance landscaping emphasizing water conservation
• Rock Garden: little to no maintenance hardscaping
• Native plants: adapted to Austin’s climate, requiring little care
• Hardscapes: reduce green vegetation with functional hardscapes like a fire pit, patio, or pergola
• Automatic Irrigation: set-it-and-forget-it smart irrigation saves times and money and conserves water
• Mulch: reduces weeds
Organic mulch needs to be replaced yearly. Inorganic mulch, like gravel or rubber, needs to be replaced every 5-10 years.
In Austin, plant grass seed in March or April. Spring planting helps avoid late-season frost and gives the seed time to germinate before the summer heat sets in.
Summer is the perfect time for lounging on Lady Bird Lake, tubing the Comal River, backyard barbecuing, and pool partying. It’s also the time for rapid plant growth and lawn maintenance. Instead of sweating in the Austin heat, let Wikilawn match you with a local lawn care professional who will take care of your lawn so you can get back to enjoying your summer.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Texas, Austin / dszc / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"Guide to Summer Lawn Care in Austin, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.263157894736842,"src":"/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/1789c/solar-panels-working-10-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/107df/solar-panels-working-10-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/293e9/solar-panels-working-10-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/f2cbb/solar-panels-working-10-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/1789c/solar-panels-working-10-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/c26c2/solar-panels-working-10-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/1dd6e/solar-panels-working-10-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/67b76/solar-panels-working-10-1.webp 320w,\n/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/8df11/solar-panels-working-10-1.webp 500w,\n/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/98a65/solar-panels-working-10-1.webp 800w,\n/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/1dd6e/solar-panels-working-10-1.webp 960w,\n/static/2c41b1c20aca19ce39f486cf427d945c/3cc96/solar-panels-working-10-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Guide to Summer Lawn Care in Austin, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With this comprehensive guide to summer lawn care in Austin, you can overcome the heat and drought to have the green lawn of your dreams."}}},{"node":{"id":"f3cedee9-3f12-5780-b5e8-eb8974ca3926","slug":"diy-hydroseeding","path":"/blog/diy-hydroseeding/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"A writer by trade, Janine Caayao graduated from the University of the Philippines. She draws, plays video games, and snuggles with her cats during her free time.","name":"Janine Caayao","id":"eab2e0a9-2863-5dad-b98f-fe06c596c508","path":"/author/janine-caayao/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4577dd58c063fcc8a254c30d035fc354?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Are you looking for a more efficient and cost-effective way to grow a new lawn? Hydroseeding is cheaper than laying sod and more convenient than hand-seeding; as a bonus, it grows faster, too! If you’re ready to get your hands a little dirty, you could hydroseed your own lawn instead of hiring a professional. DIY […]
\n","content":"\nAre you looking for a more efficient and cost-effective way to grow a new lawn? Hydroseeding is cheaper than laying sod and more convenient than hand-seeding; as a bonus, it grows faster, too! If you’re ready to get your hands a little dirty, you could hydroseed your own lawn instead of hiring a professional. DIY hydroseeding isn’t too complicated. Let’s go over the steps.
\n\n\nAlso called hydraulic mulch seeding, hydroseeding is simply the process of seeding with a slurry mixture of seeds, water, mulch, and fertilizer. It has a slew of benefits, such as faster seed germination and a more uniform look.
\n\n\n\nThe slurry is sprayed with hydroseeding equipment or a pump. You can also buy a do-it-yourself hydroseeding kit that comes with the slurry ingredients and its own sprayer.
\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Hydroseeded-lawn-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: BanksPhotos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou need the following tools and materials for your hydroseeding project:
\n\n\n\n![\"Gardener](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mulchy-copy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: artursfoto / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nThe very first step is planning out the specifics of your hydroseed slurry: the types of seeds you want to plant and the mulch that you’ll be using.
\n\n\n\nIt’s recommended to seed grass types that match your area’s climate: cool-season grasses for the North and warm-season grasses down South. With hydroseeding, you can plant multiple types of grass instead of just one. Some people blend Kentucky bluegrass with tall fescue, for example.
\n\n\n\nThere are many types of mulch that homeowners can use in their hydroseed slurries. Each one has its own pros and cons. Here are some of these mulch types:
\n\n\n\nFinding out the condition of your soil before you plant new seeds is a good move; it will tell you if the soil needs any amendments to ensure the most optimal growing conditions for your new grass. A soil test — either from a lab or from a home testing kit — will tell you your soil’s pH level and what nutrients it has.
\n\n\n\nGrass grows best in the pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. You can add lime if your soil is too acidic; add sulfur if it’s too alkaline. Any number outside of this pH range can cause your grass to grow poorly or even die.
\n\n\n\nUsing the soil test results, you can also determine what fertilizer to add to your hydroseed slurry.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNow it’s time to prepare your lawn for hydroseeding. The first step is clearing your lawn, as hydroseeding is most successful when applied to bare soil. Clear your lawn of existing grass (dead or alive), old plants, weeds, rocks, tools, toys, and other debris.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNext, you should mark any sprinkler heads around your lawn. This is especially important if you’re lugging around a heavy hydroseeding machine.
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t have a sprinkler system but want to install one, you should do it while you’re prepping your lawn and before spraying the slurry.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"grading](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Grading-lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: JulNichols / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nGrading the soil is simply the process of adjusting its slope to prevent rainwater and runoff from getting to your house and other structures. When grading soil, it also gets leveled.
\n\n\n\nTo prepare your lawn for hydroseeding, grade your soil 2 ½ to 3 inches below the final grade you want it to be. The final grade is how high you want your lawn to be. Afterward, fill in holes and level your lawn with a rake and/or a yard leveler.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe next step is adding your soil additives: topsoil, compost, and sulfur or lime (if needed). The first two components stimulate healthy grass growth mainly because they supply your growing grass with nutrients.
\n\n\n\nAdd enough topsoil and compost so that it adds about 3 inches to your lawn’s grade. Then, churn it into the existing soil.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFinally, it’s time to re-grade and level your lawn to the final grade you want it to have. It’s now ready to be hydroseeded!
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDo you have a hydroseeder? Chances are that the average homeowner doesn’t have one. In that case, you have three options: renting a hydroseeder, making one yourself, or buying a hydroseeding kit in-store or online. Buying a hydroseeding kit is not a bad option if you need to seed a smaller area.
\n\n\n\nYou can rent a hydroseeding machine for covering large areas from equipment rental companies like United Rentals, Sunbelt Rentals, and MacAllister Rentals.
\n\n\n\nIf you’d rather make your own hydroseeder, this video tutorial will show you how:
\n\n\n\nOnce you have your hydroseeding equipment, it’s time to mix your slurry. If you have a DIY hydroseeding kit, you only need to read the instructions.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow much of each slurry component you need depends heavily on the size of the area you’ll be spraying. Typically, you’ll need 5 to 7 lbs of seed, 40 to 50 lbs of mulch, and 20 lbs of fertilizer for every 1,000 sq. ft. you’ll be hydroseeding. You’ll need enough water to fill your equipment about ¾ of the way. When in doubt, ask your materials supplier for guidance.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHydroseeding machines can vary in how they’re operated; always read the manual for specific instructions. However, you can expect this general process:
\n\n\n\nNow, it’s time to spray your lawn. It’s best to spray when it’s calm and cool outside, but it’s ok if it’s predicted to rain lightly that day. Wear your protective equipment before spraying, as you might be out in the sun for a while.
\n\n\n\nPlan your path ahead of time to prevent you from having to step on the areas you’ve just sprayed. Keep the nozzle at least 3 inches from the ground and spray slowly and evenly throughout your lawn.
\n\n\n\nYou might want to overlap your slurry a little bit while you spray. This ensures there aren’t any gaps that will result in bare patches later on. You can make this easier for yourself if you add lawn-friendly dye to your slurry.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"hydroseeded](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sue Thompson / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCongratulations, you’ve now hydroseeded your lawn! However, this is only the beginning. You’ll need to maintain your new grass for it to grow into a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nHere are a few hydroseeded lawn maintenance tips:
\n\n\n\nJust like when you’re planting grass seeds the old-fashioned way, the best time to hydroseed is during your chosen grass type’s growing season.
\n\n\n\nFor Bermudagrass, Bahiagrass, and other warm-season grasses, you should hydroseed in late spring or early summer.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass, ryegrasses, and other cool-season grasses should be hydroseeded from late summer to early fall.
\n\n\n\nWhile you can hydroseed in the summer, it can be a bit more challenging as you must keep your new lawn moist for the first few weeks, and water tends to evaporate in the hot summer sun before it can soak into the soil and reach the grass’s roots.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want to grow new grass in a larger area, then you should hydroseed. If you’re filling in bare patches, then it’s better to overseed the regular way. The hydroseed slurry can injure or kill your existing grass.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn average, the cost of professional hydroseeding ranges from 8 to 20 cents per square foot. The rate will depend on many factors, including your lawn’s condition and how big it is.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDIY hydroseeding isn’t too complicated and can make for an interesting project to tackle. You could save money on labor, too. However, it can be more beneficial to hire a professional because they have the knowledge and the equipment to hydroseed your lawn already. Besides, a pro will usually be more successful at hydroseeding than the average homeowner.
Wikilawn can connect you with dependable lawn care pros that can hydroseed, fertilize, and mow your lawn for you. Hire a lawn maintenance pro near you today for a lush lawn without all the work.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: BanksPhotos / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"DIY Hydroseeding: How to Hydroseed Your Own Lawn in 11 Steps","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/1789c/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/107df/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/293e9/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/f2cbb/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/1789c/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/c26c2/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/1dd6e/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/67b76/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.webp 320w,\n/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/8df11/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.webp 500w,\n/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/98a65/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.webp 800w,\n/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/1dd6e/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.webp 960w,\n/static/7fdd6619182dacdca0e5c8d06e7bb930/3cc96/Hydroseeding-lawn-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"DIY Hydroseeding: How to Hydroseed Your Own Lawn in 11 Steps | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Hydroseeding can give you the beautiful and lush lawn of your dreams. You can even do it yourself. Learn how with this DIY hydroseeding guide."}}},{"node":{"id":"065e2a35-ea48-5bf5-932c-bcfd21221180","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"May 15th, 2023","excerpt":"We all have plenty of reasons to love life in the Old Dominion, from its moderate climate to the stunning work of mother nature. We would rather spend our free time exploring the state parks, botanical gardens, or arboretums. However, spending hours on landscape maintenance and backyard chores will take up most of that time. […]
\n","content":"\nWe all have plenty of reasons to love life in the Old Dominion, from its moderate climate to the stunning work of mother nature. We would rather spend our free time exploring the state parks, botanical gardens, or arboretums. However, spending hours on landscape maintenance and backyard chores will take up most of that time. Spend your weekends relaxing with 7 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Virginia.
\n\n\n\nWith a low-maintenance landscape design, you can reduce the amount of work, watering, weeding, and mowing required to upkeep your lawn. From hardscape features to automatic irrigation systems, we have come up with a list of ideas for an attractive yard while reducing the amount of maintenance required.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"Hardscaped](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Hardscaping.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardscapes are naturally low-maintenance landscaping features that improve your outdoor space functions. Given they are non-living elements, hardscaping features won’t require any watering, pruning, or fertilizing.
\n\n\n\nHowever, they would still require the occasional cleaning and care. Consulting a professional landscaping company or hiring a pro will help you pick the right feature, and ensure minimal maintenance throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of low-maintenance hardscaping features include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost depends on the project size and the type of feature you choose. Expect to pay between $2,100 and $6,000 for a pergola, $5,365 and $9,025 for a gazebo, $1,140 and $3,690 for a water feature.
\n\n\n\n![\"Xeriscaped](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscape-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: teofilo / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe aim of xeriscaping is to use as little water as possible, while still maintaining an attractive and eco-friendly landscape. It helps you create a beautiful and cost-effective backyard with barely any chores to complain about.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, xeriscaping is a wildlife-friendly approach, as it can attract beneficial insects and pollinators. If you have enough experience, you can save money by making it a DIY project, but installation can be back-breaking work.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping has become very popular over the years, helping you reduce the amount of water used by 50% to 75%.
\n\n\n\nBelow are some examples of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, the cost of xeriscaping ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/4608457413_921dff2b0e_c-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Rachel Kramer / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApplying mulch is an easy, cheap way to keep your garden healthy and hydrated. It is used to suppress weeds, retain moisture in the soil, and keep the soil cool. It can also help make your garden bed look more attractive. Fortunately, spreading mulch around your plants is a simple DIY task. There are two types of mulch for you to choose from:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The amount you spend on mulch depends on which type you choose. Wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2 cubic foot bag, while landscape gravel costs between $4 to $30 per 0.5 cubic foot bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Asclepias_tuberosa_2015-07-01_3812.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Salicyna / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNative plants grow naturally in Virginia, as they are accustomed to the state’s climate and soil conditions. They usually need little care to survive, though may require the occasional pruning. Native plants help keep the local ecosystem healthy, and provide a source of food for critters and wildlife. Be sure to conduct thorough research before selecting plants for your lawn, such as the area’s plant hardiness zone.
\n\n\n\nThere are plenty of Virginia-native plants, including low-maintenance shrubs, for you to choose from. Below are some examples:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on the plant’s type and size, expect to pay between $600 and $3,000 per flower bed, $150 and $3,000 per tree, $25 and $50 per shrub.
\n\n\n\n![\"Eastern](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Eastern-Redbud.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Plant Image Library / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennials are a great way for you to obtain a low-maintenance landscape. Unlike annuals or biennials, perennials live for several years and require little care once established. In addition to adding beauty to your landscape, these plants will prevent you from having to buy new plants every year!
\n\n\n\nVirginia lies between USDA plant hardiness zones 5a and 8a. Be sure to pick the right plants that can thrive in your region.
\n\n\n\nSome perennials for your low-maintenance lawn:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of perennials depends on the plant’s size, type, and whether you hire a pro to complete the landscaping project. On average, a perennial plant will cost you between $10 and $100.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/24445181093_9f2de37aff_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aqua Mechanical / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis type of irrigation system is programmed to automatically water areas of the yard with a specific amount of water. You may also set a specific time and duration for the system to switch on. With this type of technology, you can maintain a healthy lawn without manually watering the grass or plants yourself.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of automatic irrigation systems:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Hiring a landscape contractor to install an irrigation system will cost you between $2,000 and $4,900, depending on your yard size and the system you choose.
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Nick Bastian / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere may not be a clear winner in the debate between synthetic and natural turf, but synthetic grass will stay green all year round with minimal work. Over the years, artificial turf has become a popular low-maintenance landscaping option. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, and reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Synthetic grass may appear very life-like that your envious neighbors won’t be able to tell the difference!
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial turf:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: On average, the cost of getting artificial turf professionally installed ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to boosting the local ecosystem, a low-maintenance landscape may benefit homeowners just as much. Native plants such as trees will absorb CO2 and release oxygen into the air, contributing to a better quality of air. Low-maintenance landscaping may also help reduce allergens, such as mold and pollen.
Groundcovers are low-growing plants that are a valuable addition to your low-maintenance landscape. They keep your yard green and full. Replacing turfgrass areas with groundcovers means less time spent on watering, mowing, and other maintenance work, just like low-maintenance plants or native trees.
Advantages of groundcovers:
• Retain moisture in soil, help prevent erosion
• Attract beneficial insects
• Reduce the use of chemical herbicides
• Improve your lawn’s visual appeal
• Lower maintenance requirements than grass
Here are some Virginia-native groundcovers for your low-maintenance garden:
• Green-and-gold (Chrysogonum virginianum)
• Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides)
• Partridgeberry (Mitchella repens)
• Eastern teaberry (Gaultheria procumbens)
Virginia lies in the transition zone, so it’s tough to pick one grass type for every lawn in the state. Both cool- and warm-season grasses can thrive in this state, given its hot summers and moderately cold winters. However, we will recommend two low-maintenance grass types based on which region in Virginia you reside in.
If you live in a warm region, such as Tidewater, then centipedegrass is the best way to go. This warm-season grass is called ‘lazy man’s grass’ because it requires less maintenance and mowing than other warm-season turfgrasses.
On the other hand, tall fescue is a bunch-type grass that can thrive in almost every region across the state, such as Northern Virginia. It is the most heat-tolerant cool-season grass, and has a decent heat and drought tolerance. It does not produce significant thatch, though may still require the occasional mowing.
Check out our guide on the best grass types for Virginia to learn more about the grasses that thrive in your region.
\n\n\n\nWith all of the ideas mentioned above, it may seem like the right time to transform your backyard into a low-maintenance landscape. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before getting started on the project. Always consider the local climate, soil type, native plants, and other key factors to get a beautiful and sustainable backyard.
\n\n\n\nSome hardscaping features may have a high initial cost, but they will prove to be a worthwhile investment over time. Low-maintenance landscaping can save you plenty of time, support the local ecosystem, and improve your home’s curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nYour lawn might still require the occasional mowing, pruning, or trimming. Looking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Chesapeake, Norfolk, Richmond, Alexandria, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Michel Rathwell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"7 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Virginia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/1789c/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/107df/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.jpg 320w,\n/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/293e9/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.jpg 500w,\n/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/f2cbb/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.jpg 800w,\n/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/1789c/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.jpg 960w,\n/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/c26c2/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/1dd6e/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/67b76/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.webp 320w,\n/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/8df11/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.webp 500w,\n/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/98a65/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.webp 800w,\n/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/1dd6e/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.webp 960w,\n/static/6009045a3a45c3c588ba5047dd336b89/3cc96/Black-eyed-Susan-Flowers.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Virginia","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Spend less time worrying about outdoor chores and get creative with these 7 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Virginia."}}},{"node":{"id":"0781fce9-f353-5048-8b9d-85b655d931f0","slug":"worst-weeds","path":"/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/worst-weeds/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lydian Pine is a creative writer and studio artist whose work first debuted in a short story anthology. She graduated from the University of North Texas in 2020 and enjoys video games, theatre, and swimming. Lately, she has started to study entomology as a hobby.","name":"Lydian Pine","id":"3478d9b1-e85b-5e4a-860b-443c62d1e29c","path":"/author/lydian-pine/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f31ce7919bd939bc1f102cee2f3304d2?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"},{"id":"960004f5-f837-5b2c-8241-8a86613fdf92","name":"Raleigh","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"Small weeds indicate larger problems in your Raleigh lawn. The most effective prevention method is understanding the pesky weeds so you can eradicate them. Discover the 18 worst weeds in Raleigh and how to get rid of them. Why Are Weeds Bad for Your Raleigh Lawn? Weeds drain nutrients from your lawn, signifying underlying problems […]
\n","content":"\nSmall weeds indicate larger problems in your Raleigh lawn. The most effective prevention method is understanding the pesky weeds so you can eradicate them. Discover the 18 worst weeds in Raleigh and how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nWeeds drain nutrients from your lawn, signifying underlying problems like low nitrogen, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf. Maintain a healthy lawn with routine maintenance, watering, and fertilization schedules, and the weeds won’t stand a chance. Here are some reasons weed control is important:
\n\n\n\nThere 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.
\n\n\n\nExperts 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:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as spear thistle or common thistle, bull thistle is a prickly biennial plant with tall, branching stems that grow up to five feet tall and sprout downy purple flowers. Find specimens in pastures, meadows, and along roadsides. Bull thistle grows in sunny areas, forming dense thickets that choke other plants.
\n\n\n\nThough it’s a noxious weed, bull thistle is beneficial to pollinators like bees and butterflies. It is fairly easy to control when compared to other species of thistle and responds well to hand removal and post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chickweed-Stellaria-Media.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jean and Fred Hort / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nChickweed is a low-growing, spreading, broadleaf annual with shallow roots. It forms dense patches, crowding out turfgrass and other plants. Chickweed withstands high mow heights and thrives in moist, shady areas.
\n\n\n\nSpecimens bloom conspicuous clusters of white, star-shaped flowers for one to two months between February to September. Control this pesky shade-loving weed by treating your lawn with a pre-emergent herbicide or hand-pulling specimens that pop up.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/25140451756_2a557dd4c7_c-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nDallisgrass is an invasive bunchgrass and common perennial weed in Raleigh lawns. It grows quickly and has a coarse, hairy texture with tall stalks and cone-shaped flowers. Prevent dallisgrass by maintaining a dense lawn and applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common_Dandelion.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sunasce007 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nDandelions are perennial weeds with a thick, fleshy stem that secretes a white, milky sap when broken. Perhaps the most recognizable weed of all time, its bright yellow flowers mature, drying out into spherical clusters of white puffballs composed of parachute-like seeds. Dandelions live up to two years and thrive in disturbed turf. Their peak blooming season is from February to March.
\n\n\n\nPrevent dandelions by maintaining your landscape with regular mowing, fertilizing, and watering to encourage dense growth. Dandelions have long taproots that penetrate the soil and respond well to hand pulling. Additionally, control specimens with a post-emergent broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Doveweed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/doveweed-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: George3819 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDoveweed is a summer annual weed that germinates during hot weather, appearing from late May to August. It resembles dense mats of grass but develops short stalks with clusters of purple flowers as it matures. Doveweed thrives in moist soils and full sun.
\n\n\n\nPrevent doveweed with proper turf maintenance, beginning in the spring with pre-emergent herbicide applications. Practice good drain management and target specimens that appear with a post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/7120798591_319b90985c_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nGoosegrass thrives in compact soil, making its home in short home lawns, athletic fields, and golf courses. Specimens compete with warm and cool-season turfgrasses. Goosegrass is dark green with a low, bunching growth habit that makes it impenetrable to most mowing. Prevent goosegrass by maintaining healthy soil and applying pre-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/18875740610_488f8e68a0_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nGreen foxtail is a bright green annual grass with fuzzy seed heads that resemble animal tails or wheat. Specimens adapt to most soil types and thrive in well-drained sites. Prevent green foxtail with proper lawn maintenance and routine applications of pre-emergent herbicides. It responds well to both hand removal and post-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\n![\"Ground](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/ground-ivy-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: AnemoneProjectors / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nGround ivy, or creeping Charlie, is a broadleaf perennial weed. Its leaves are round with scalloped edges, and specimens produce clusters of blue flowers. Ground ivy thrives in moist, shaded locations and some homeowners use its leaves to make medicinal tea, soups, or jams.
\n\n\n\nControl ground ivy with proper drain management, aeration, and applications of pre-emergent herbicide. Apply a post-emergent herbicide to control specimens that emerge. The broadleaf perennial blooms in early spring and typically goes dormant in the hot summer months.
\n\n\n\n![\"Japanese](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/18871996348_ce04b04863_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nJapanese stiltgrass thrives in moist, shaded areas but adapts to most conditions. Specimens resemble delicate bamboo plants with asymmetrical leaves. The broadleaf perennial weed grows up to three feet tall, creating a habitat for ticks. Remove Japanese stiltgrass by hand or with applications of post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Crabgrass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Large-crabgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLarge crabgrass is one of the most common weeds found in Raleigh yards. It is low-growing and resistant to mowing. Large crabgrass resembles light-green clumps of grass and is commonly mistaken for tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nLarge crabgrass germinates in the spring and appears throughout the summer. Control specimens with routine maintenance, including applications of pre-emergent herbicide. Post-emergent herbicide works to control specimens that emerge.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lespedeza,](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Kummerowia_striata_Lespedeza_striata-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Show_ryu / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nLespedeza, also known as Japanese clover, is a summer annual weed with small, oval leaves similar to clover. The stems become woody as specimens mature and pink or purple flowers bloom. It is a low-growing broadleaf weed that thrives in dry, disturbed turf.
\n\n\n\nControl lespedeza with proper lawn maintenance and applications of pre-emergent herbicide. Remove emerged specimens using a dandelion fork or post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Potentilla_indica_qtl1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Quartl / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nMock strawberry, or Indian strawberry, disguises itself as a strawberry plant. However, this broadleaf perennial invades healthy plants and turfgrass, robbing them of vital nutrients. Its fruit is small and tasteless, and specimens bloom yellow flowers. Mock strawberry has a spreading growth habit and thrives in moist, sunny locations.
\n\n\n\nPrevent mock strawberries by improving drainage, aerating, and practicing proper watering techniques. Remove emerged specimens by hand or treat them with a post-emergent broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Plantain](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Plantago_major_RF-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Robert Flogaus-Faust / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
\n\n\n\nPlantain, not to be confused with the delicious fruit, is a broadleaf perennial weed that lives for more than two years in compacted soils with full sun and good drainage and stands up to heavy foot traffic. Plantain produces waxy, hairy leaves and tall flowers. Prevent plantain with proper lawn maintenance and applications of pre-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Cyperus_rotundus_by_kadavoor-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: © 2009 Jee & Rani Nature Photography / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nPurple nutsedge, also known as nutgrass, is an aggressive perennial weed that resembles grass. Specimens have v-shaped stems and thick, stiff leaves. Purple nutsedge produces purple seed heads and thrives in temperate and tropical regions.
\n\n\n\nSpecimens prefer moist, flooded clay, loam, or sand and full sun. Prevent purple nutsedge with proper turfgrass maintenance. Target emerged specimens with a broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Ragweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: United Soybean Board / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as American wormwood, ragweed is a broadleaf annual weed that releases large amounts of pollen. Find it growing in poor soils with full sun. Ragweed has coarse, hairy stems and lobed leaves. Prevent the allergy-inducing pest with applications of a pre-emergent herbicide, proper lawn maintenance, and broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Spotted](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Euphorbia_maculata_221057397-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michel Langeveld / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSpotted spurge thrives in North Carolina’s summer heat. It is low-growing, forming dense mats that choke turfgrass. Spotted spurge varies in color from reddish-green to dark green and produces small white flowers. The broadleaf annual thrives in sunny, dry habitats like lawns, pastures, and sidewalk cracks.
\n\n\n\nRemove spotted spurge by hand and prevent the pesky weeds using a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring and fall. Post-emergent herbicide works to control emerging specimens.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Virginia_buttonweed_5718379708-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson from North Palm Beach, Florida, Planet Earth! / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nVirginia buttonweed is a perennial weed native to the Southeast. It resembles common wildflowers and blooms from summer through fall. Virginia buttonweed lives for more than two years, thriving in rich, moist soils. Control specimens with applications of pre-emergent herbicide and hand removal.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/White-Clover-Trifolium-Repens.jpg\")
Photo Credit: WikimediaImages / Pixabay / License
\n\n\n\nWhite clover is a perennial weed with an aggressive growth habit. Specimens survive most mowing. Find white clover in fields and moist soil with partial shade. Farmers typically use the perennial as a cover crop to balance nitrogen levels and prevent soil erosion. It also provides forage for livestock. Prevent white clover by hand pulling specimens or applying post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\nSelective herbicides control specific weeds or weed families.
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.
Raleigh’s unique climate suits both warm and cool-season grass cultivars, including:
Warm-season grasses:
● Bermudagrass
● Centipedegrass
● St. Augustinegrass
● Zoysiagrass
Cool-season grasses:
● Kentucky bluegrass
● Fine fescue
● Perennial ryegrass
● Tall fescue
Prevent weeds by maintaining your Raleigh landscape. Unfortunately, fertilizing, mowing, and watering can be time-consuming. Let Wikilawn connect you with a local lawn care pro, so you can spend more time enjoying the Old North State.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n","title":"18 Worst Weeds in Raleigh and How to Get Rid of Them","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/1789c/pxfuel.com-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/107df/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/293e9/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/f2cbb/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/1789c/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/c26c2/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/1dd6e/pxfuel.com-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/67b76/pxfuel.com-1.webp 320w,\n/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/8df11/pxfuel.com-1.webp 500w,\n/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/98a65/pxfuel.com-1.webp 800w,\n/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/1dd6e/pxfuel.com-1.webp 960w,\n/static/e39d60dcb300df9d390664f0f3aaf440/3cc96/pxfuel.com-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"18 Worst Weeds in Raleigh and How to Get Rid of Them | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Fight back against Raleigh's 18 worst weeds. Discover expert tips and tricks to eliminate these pesky plants and restore your landscape’s beauty."}}},{"node":{"id":"c2ad6577-848d-5f38-9db1-0cfb6512cd12","slug":"fall-lawn-care-checklist-cincinnati","path":"/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/fall-lawn-care-checklist-cincinnati/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Michelle Selzer is a web developer, technical writer, and Linux enthusiast from the hills of Tennessee. Her hobbies include collecting toys, hiking to waterfalls, and writing short fan-fiction stories.","name":"Michelle Selzer","id":"ce795c2b-f287-56e6-a311-f91628ed456a","path":"/author/michelle-selzer/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05a59712d75dec705cc9870b2f909e7?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"cd94a504-1dfc-52f0-ae16-ea162e4c1f6a","name":"Cincinnati","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"April 7th, 2023","excerpt":"As the temperature drops and the leaves fall, your lawn demands a little extra TLC. If, like most Cincinattians, you have cool-season grass, expect your grass’s growth to speed up and then go dormant by winter. Properly caring for your lawn in the fall gives it the strength to endure a harsh winter and flourish […]
\n","content":"\nAs the temperature drops and the leaves fall, your lawn demands a little extra TLC. If, like most Cincinattians, you have cool-season grass, expect your grass’s growth to speed up and then go dormant by winter. Properly caring for your lawn in the fall gives it the strength to endure a harsh winter and flourish again come spring. So, make sure you cross everything off Cincinnati’s fall lawn care checklist.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"raking](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/pxfuel.com-4-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nIn late September to early October, our leaves change color, then begin to fall. It is essential to manage your fall leaves for the following reasons:
\n\n\n\nSmall amounts of leaves can be mulched with a mower and left to fertilize the grass, but large amounts need removal. Therefore, when the leaves fall, most Cincinattians rake every few days.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Mowing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Prasannanossam3 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWhen fall is in the air, lawn mower engines blare throughout The Queen City. Most Cincinnatians have cool-season grass that flourishes in the spring and fall, so be prepared for rapid fall growth. The table below shows the recommended mowing heights for the best grass types in Cincinnati.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Mow Height |
| Kentucky Bluegrass | 2.5 – 3.5 inches |
| Perennial Ryegrass | 1.5 – 2.5 inches |
| Fine Fescue | 2.5 – 4 inches |
| Tall Fescue | 3 – 3.5 inches |
Proper lawn mowing practices include the following:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dethatcher2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agri-Fab / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nA layer of organic debris called thatch builds up between your grass and the soil. You should dethatch your lawn before the thatch becomes 1/2 inch thick. Dethatching is important for the following reasons:
\n\n\n\nYou can use a power rake to dethatch your lawn, and the best time to do so is early fall, right before aeration.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8704115339_808a6b275c_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Oregon State University / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nCincinnati’s soil contains a lot of clay, which makes it prone to soil compaction and drainage issues. Aerating your lawn in September or October will improve soil drainage and prevent the soil from compacting. Thus, after aeration, more water and fertilizer reach your grass’s roots allowing your lawn to grow lush and strong.
\n\n\n\nBy improving the soil’s drainage, lawn aeration also helps you avoid the following problems:
\n\n\n\nThere are three main types of lawn aeration, as shown in the table below.
\n\n\n\n| Aeration method | Description |
| Liquid aeration | A liquid solution that claims to aerate, but Colorado State University says it isn’t effective. |
| Spike aeration | Solid tines puncture the soil. |
| Core aeration | A machine pushes hollow tines into the ground and removes plugs of soil. |
Core aeration is the best type to use on Cincy’s soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"Thick](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/green-lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nRight after aerating, is the best time to overseed your lawn. Many Cincinnati homeowners overseed with seeds from cultivars that highly resist insects and diseases. Overseeding can also improve your grass’s tolerance to drought, shade, and foot traffic. As a result of overseeding, your lawn will be fuller and require less water, fertilizer, and chemical treatments.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be careful if you plant to treat your lawn with herbicide. Herbicides may hinder the growth of new grass seeds.
\n\n\n\n![\"man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Person-spreading-fertilizer.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nCool-season grass requires fertilization in the fall, and here are some tips to help you:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Aqua Mechanical / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAs long as it stays above 40 degrees Farenheit you must continue watering your lawn. Use the following watering tips to ensure your grass thrives:
\n\n\n\nApplying pre-emergent herbicides in the fall will prevent winter weeds from sprouting. Common winter weeds in Cincinnati include:
\n\n\n\nHowever, proper lawn care is the best way to prevent the worst weeds in Cincinnati. Healthy grass can stand strong against weeds.
\n\n\n\nWhen water freezes, it expands, so any water left in your irrigation system can cause its parts to break. Drain all the water from your sprinklers when the temperature drops below freezing, which typically occurs at the end of October.
\n\n\n\nCincinnati’s most infamous fall pests include the following:
Our spring lawn care tips for Cincinnati include:
You should avoid watering your lawn at night because it increases the chance of it getting fungal diseases.
The best way to take care of fall lawn care is to have a professional do it for you. The temperature is dropping, and soon we will be back in brewery season. So instead of working hard in the yard, you should enjoy what’s left of our pleasantly cool fall weather. Call a Cincinnati lawn care pro to take care of your fall lawn care needs.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Rose Hill Avenue, Cincinnati / Warren LeMay / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n","title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Cincinnati, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/1789c/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/107df/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/293e9/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/f2cbb/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/1789c/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/c26c2/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/1dd6e/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/67b76/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 320w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/8df11/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 500w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/98a65/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 800w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/1dd6e/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 960w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/3cc96/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Cincinnati, OH | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"We break down all the fall lawn care your Cincinnati lawn needs to withstand a harsh winter and flourish again in spring, including lawn mowing advice."}}},{"node":{"id":"a2686088-d2d1-5a1c-b532-7c5463bbae8f","slug":"best-grass-types-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/best-grass-types-dallas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"March 5th, 2019","excerpt":"With an average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit in October, it is easy to see why backyard barbecues and frozen margaritas are so popular in Dallas, Texas, and it would be a shame not to show off your lush, green yard. The best grass types for Dallas need little water to thrive in the city’s […]
\n","content":"\nWith an average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit in October, it is easy to see why backyard barbecues and frozen margaritas are so popular in Dallas, Texas, and it would be a shame not to show off your lush, green yard. The best grass types for Dallas need little water to thrive in the city’s hot summers. If you’re installing a new lawn or ready to take your existing yard from drab to fab, consider one of these options for results that will survive the Texas heat.
\n\n\n\nThe city’s hot summers, cold winters, and low precipitation levels are best suited to warm-season grass varieties. Warm-season grasses soak up the sun and actively grow during late spring and go dormant around mid-fall. These varieties grow best in the southern United States, preferring growing temperatures between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bidgee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is the most popular Texas grass variety. The hardy, fine-textured turfgrass withstands drought and heavy traffic, making it a durable and versatile option for athletic fields, home lawns, golf courses, and more. It is an aggressive grass that recovers quickly from damage, leading some to consider it an aggressive species.
\n\n\n\nDallas is home to many types of sun-loving bermudagrass. Common bermudagrass has a light green color and coarse texture, while hybrid cultivars have a finer texture and dark green appearance. Common bermudagrass requires less maintenance than hybrid varieties but is less dense with a more sparse appearance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nDeep roots are one thing Texans and St. Augustinegrass have in common. This warm-season grass is a popular choice for urban Dallas thanks to its shade tolerance. While the quick-growing grass is easy to establish, it does not stand up well to heavy traffic and might struggle during unusually cold Texas winters.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is dark-emerald to blue-green and coarse-textured. It is not as hardy as other warm-season grass types and is susceptible to disease and pests like chinch bugs.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysia-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nThere are around eleven cultivars of Zoysiagrass available in Texas. These grasses tolerate low mow heights, drought, cold, shade, and heavy traffic, and have low fertilization requirements. Cultivars of Zoysiagrass grow densely, blocking out weed growth thanks to thick stiff leaf blades.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. Cultivars are not prone to disease or insect infestation but grow slowly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Not prone to disease and insects; good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/buffalograss.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nTexas native Buffalograss loves to be undisturbed to soak in the Dallas sun. The warm-season grass is drought and cold-tolerant. It requires little fertilization and less mowing than most varieties. Unfortunately, the low-fuss cultivar does not stand up to heavy traffic, shade, or weeds.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss loves hot summers and its gray-green blades are pest and disease resistant.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Very low — best suited for full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Very low, but light use or rare heavy use is OK
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency — once per week or less
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2-4 inches or leave unmowed
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native soils, not sandy soils
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is a low-maintenance cultivar, requiring little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain lush and green. The smooth, flat-bladed grass does not handle heavy traffic, shade, cold, or herbicides well.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass has a pronounced light green color and medium texture. The slow-growing grass is prone to pests and disease when improperly maintained or over watered.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow when the Texas temperatures hit 65 degrees Fahrenheit, usually toward the end of February or the beginning of March. The growing season typically ends with your grass going dormant when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit around mid-November.
You should plant your grass seed in March or April. This gives the seed plenty of time to germinate before the hot Texas summer.
St. Augustinegrass is the most shade-friendly grass type for Dallas.
Dogs and cats love to soak up the summer sun as much as your Texas plants. If your furry friend spends a lot of time outdoors, bermudagrass is your best option. This variety grows densely, withstands heavy traffic, and recovers quickly when man’s best friend has the urge to dig.
All Texas grass varieties thrive in warm weather, but different cultivars have different characteristics and needs. Choose a variety that works well for your space and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nYour grass variety is just one component of your complete landscape. There are numerous low-maintenance landscaping options available for Dallas. Check out our list of the best native plants that will thrive in the dry summer heat.
\n\n\n\nA lush backyard oasis is within reach. Contact a Dallas lawn care pro today to keep your lawn and landscaping green and healthy.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Dallas, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4943960149439601,"src":"/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/1789c/Grass-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/107df/Grass-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/293e9/Grass-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/f2cbb/Grass-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/1789c/Grass-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/c26c2/Grass-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/1dd6e/Grass-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/67b76/Grass-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/8df11/Grass-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/98a65/Grass-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/1dd6e/Grass-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/006172dedcf0f6cf1b7ed20b656edef1/3cc96/Grass-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Dallas, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, drought-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Dallas, and these five species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"1b94c6a8-3e9e-51bd-84b2-d3a1a79890c7","slug":"best-grass-types-illinois","path":"/lawn-care/il/best-grass-types-illinois/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lydian Pine is a creative writer and studio artist whose work first debuted in a short story anthology. She graduated from the University of North Texas in 2020 and enjoys video games, theatre, and swimming. Lately, she has started to study entomology as a hobby.","name":"Lydian Pine","id":"3478d9b1-e85b-5e4a-860b-443c62d1e29c","path":"/author/lydian-pine/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f31ce7919bd939bc1f102cee2f3304d2?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"51e1f258-c2e9-5d28-83c3-bb7bc475352c","name":"Illinois","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/il/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"A lush lawn is a dream for any homeowner, and achieving this goal with your Illinois lawn is possible. It is much easier to grow a healthy lawn without an abundance of pesticides or fertilizers with the right grass variety. Discover the 7 best grass types for Illinois landscapes. In this article, we will cover: […]
\n","content":"\nA lush lawn is a dream for any homeowner, and achieving this goal with your Illinois lawn is possible. It is much easier to grow a healthy lawn without an abundance of pesticides or fertilizers with the right grass variety. Discover the 7 best grass types for Illinois landscapes.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses perform best in the southern half of the U.S., entering active growth periods when temperatures range between 75 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Cultivars are typically drought-tolerant and require regular summer mowing sessions to keep blades short.
\n\n\n\nIllinois’ warm-season grasses green up in late spring or early summer and go dormant when temperatures turn cold in the fall through winter. For the best results, plant seeds in the summer or early fall.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses prefer northern climates and cold winters. These grasses remain green throughout most of the year and thrive in cooler temperatures between 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool-season grasses enter their green-up phases in fall and early spring and go dormant during the hot summer months.
\n\n\n\nSeed cool-season cultivars in the spring or fall. Unlike warm-season grasses, these specimens prefer taller mowing heights to keep blades healthy.
\n\n\n\nThe following warm and cool-season grass types adapt to the climatic and soil conditions of Illinois:
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipede grass is an excellent choice for Southern Illinois landscapes. It tolerates drought and requires little maintenance. Centipedegrass is a popular choice in coastal areas because it adapts to infertile, acidic soils, salt, and sand.
\n\n\n\nMany hybrid cultivars have increased cold tolerance. Centipedegrass requires adequate drainage and regular seeding until mature which typically takes two to three years. Specimens have coarse textures and light green colors. It has good shade and drought tolerance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate — at least six hours of full sun per day
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; prone to centipedegrass decline and iron chlorosis
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate; prone to ground pearl insects, grubs, mole crickets, sod webworms, and lawn caterpillars
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Low maintenance once established; greenish-yellow color (like a green apple) during the growing season; low fertilizer and mowing requirements; not a salt-tolerant grass
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\nFine fescue comes in many varieties, including creeping red fescue and hard fescue. It thrives throughout the Land of Lincoln and requires regular mowing. It is a clumping grass variety with a fine texture. Homeowners often mix fine fescue with other varieties like Kentucky bluegrass to create a resilient home lawn.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue establishes quickly and has a deep green color. Cultivars are drought and cold-tolerant and grow well in poor soils. Fine fescue goes dormant during hot summers and prefers partially shaded areas. It is the most shade-tolerant of all the cool-season grass types.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type grasses with one exception: creeping red fescues possess rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, powdery mildew, and downy mildew can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate; most common pests are chinch bugs, sod webworms, grubs, billbugs, winter mites, and crane flies
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-drained soils; tolerates infertile and sandy soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Often used in a mix with other cool-season grasses, especially in sun/shade mixes
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is dark green with a dense, carpet-like texture that is the envy of the neighborhood. It grows well when seeded with other cultivars like tall or fine fescue and loves mild fall temperatures.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass tolerates some shade but prefers full sun. It also does not require much water to grow well. However, it is susceptible to weeds, especially dandelions.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low to moderate; prefers full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate; recuperates well
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-3 inches; mow taller during summer
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; snow molds, summer patch, leaf spot, fairy rings, dollar spot, and necrotic ring spot can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Moderate to high; most common pests are chinch bugs, bluegrass billbugs, grubs, and greenbugs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-drained, fertile soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It is most often mixed with other species. Regular watering is necessary because of its shallow roots. Poor soil conditions and lack of water can cause diseases, but newer cultivars are more hardy and resistant to disease.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lolium_perenne_TK_2021-06-26_1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: T. Kebert / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass grows best in the northern half of Illinois and does not grow well in high temperatures. It is a thick, dark green grass that stands up to heavy foot traffic and is pest-resistant. It establishes quickly and grows best in well-drained soils. Homeowners in the southern half of the state often use perennial ryegrass for winter overseeding to create a green lawn year-round.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Tillers (Bunch-type)
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; requires four to five hours of sunlight
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High; recuperates poorly
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High; requires frequent watering, mowing, and fertilization
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High; susceptible to flag rust, stem rust, leaf spot, downy mildew, brown patch, and red thread
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; chinch bugs and greenbug aphids can occur
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, fertile soils
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Poa-Trivialis-Winterplay.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nRough bluegrass grows well in poorly draining, moist, shaded areas. It has soft, glossy blades that create an uneven appearance unless lying flat. Rough bluegrass is yellow-green and has low drought and disease tolerance. It does not stand up well to heavy foot traffic. However, cultivars tolerate occasional flooding.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1 – 2 ½ inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High; susceptible to brown patch, fairy rings, gray snow mold, helminthosporium diseases, mushrooms, and puffballs
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; ants, sod webworms, thrips, and white grubs can occur
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6 – 7
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Rich, moist soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Rough bluegrass is winter-hardy and great for colder months. However, it has a weedy appearance when blended with other grass types.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a reliable, low-maintenance grass that is a great choice for northern Illinois. It tolerates both heat and cold. Tall fescue thrives in full sun and partial shade but needs to be irrigated to remain attractive during the summer.
\n\n\n\nCultivars thrive in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 but adapt to other conditions. Tall fescue has a coarse texture, with a medium to dark green color and an extensive root system.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Tillers (Bunch-type)
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate; recovers slowly
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2-4 inches (Check your cultivar and state recommendations. Many cultivars grow best when mowed on the tall side.)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate; can be prone to leaf spot, seedling disease, and brown patch
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low to moderate; susceptible to armyworms, cutworms, sod webworms, and grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adaptable; prefers clay soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Fertilize in September and November. Plant fresh grass seeds every couple of years to maintain a dense lawn and fill thinning spots.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a warm-season grass suited for southern Illinois. It grows well in warm temperatures and is drought-tolerant. Zoysiagrass is a dense grass that is light to medium green. It is weather-resistant and low-maintenance but establishes slowly.
\n\n\n\nCultivars grow best in full sun, turning brown and entering dormancy in the fall. Zoysiagrass has low water needs and requires frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and leaf spot can occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mites, grubs, mole crickets, hunting billbugs, armyworms, chinch bugs, and sod webworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\nGrass stops growing in the fall when temperatures consistently remain between 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
For cool-season cultivars, fertilize your lawn in spring between February to May. Fertilize warm-season grasses from May to June.
The ideal time for seeding in Illinois is Mid-August to early September or in April. Avoid seeding in late spring or summer during dormancy.
Are you looking for an extra set of hands to take care of your lawn? Picking out the right grass for your Illinois lawn is overwhelming. Let Wikilawn connect you with a local lawn care professional to take the hassle out of your yard work.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Gary Todd / Flickr / Public Domain
\n","title":"7 Best Grass Types for Illinois","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/1789c/lawn-in-illinois.jpg","srcSet":"/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/107df/lawn-in-illinois.jpg 320w,\n/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/293e9/lawn-in-illinois.jpg 500w,\n/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/f2cbb/lawn-in-illinois.jpg 800w,\n/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/1789c/lawn-in-illinois.jpg 960w,\n/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/c26c2/lawn-in-illinois.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/1dd6e/lawn-in-illinois.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/67b76/lawn-in-illinois.webp 320w,\n/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/8df11/lawn-in-illinois.webp 500w,\n/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/98a65/lawn-in-illinois.webp 800w,\n/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/1dd6e/lawn-in-illinois.webp 960w,\n/static/63df6ad153c5e47f04290f6cee1b0423/3cc96/lawn-in-illinois.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Best Grass Types for Illinois | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the 7 best grass types for Illinois' diverse climate. Achieve a vibrant, resilient lawn with our expert guide. Perfect for any Illinois landscape."}}},{"node":{"id":"b1c241f7-cd17-5d55-a68b-841402b95208","slug":"best-grass-types-los-angeles","path":"/lawn-care/ca/los-angeles/best-grass-types-los-angeles/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"6ef486ca-ccd1-5849-a339-3c49569b40f6","name":"Los Angeles","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/los-angeles/"}],"date":"March 21st, 2023","excerpt":"Los Angeles is a vibrant city with stunning beaches and a moderate climate, but rainfall can be a little iffy. So if you’re looking to create a lush green lawn that can withstand the heat and dry conditions of the region, it’s important to know the best grass types for the City of Angels. In […]
\n","content":"\nLos Angeles is a vibrant city with stunning beaches and a moderate climate, but rainfall can be a little iffy. So if you’re looking to create a lush green lawn that can withstand the heat and dry conditions of the region, it’s important to know the best grass types for the City of Angels.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nAll grasses are classified into one of these two categories:
\n\n\n\nLos Angeles is warm throughout the year, with sunny summers and mild winters. Because of this, cold-season grasses typically don’t do well in Los Angeles. Warm-season grasses obviously handle high temperatures and drought better.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a closer look at some of the best warm-season grass types for Los Angeles below.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bentgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nLos Angeles’ warm climate is a breeze for native California bentgrass. This grass stays a deep green color whether it’s in the sun or in the shade. It tolerates drought as well as moderate moisture.
\n\n\n\nThe grass is low-maintenance; you can let it grow and form a meadow or cut it as you wish. However, be careful not to cut it very short after leaving it long because this can shock this grass. Its medium texture and uniform growth habit make it a perfect addition to any LA lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe downside of this grass is that it takes a long time to grow. It’s available as sod, but because the grass grows slowly, sod is more expensive than alternatives.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Medium; full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low; but mowing must be consistent or the grass must be left to grow freely; also takes a long time to grow
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Up to you; naturally grows up to 4 to 28 inches; mow consistently to avoid scalping; in any case, never remove more than 1/3 of the leaf blade per mow
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sand-Dune-Sedge.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Tortie tude / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nYou may have seen this shade- and drought-tolerant perennial grass on your local beach, but did you know that it can also grow on your lawn? Sand dune sedge tolerates various soil types and is low-maintenance. You can grow it long or mow it regularly to keep it short and tidy.
\n\n\n\nThe unique texture and color of the sand dune sedge makes it a fantastic addition to your landscape design. But keep in mind that it grows in clumps, so it’s not the best option for a uniform, carpet-like lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Up to you; naturally grows up to 0.7 to 1.3 ft tall; never remove more than 1/3 of the leaf blade per mow
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass, also called wiregrass, is a dense, low-maintenance grass that grows in various soil conditions and thrives in hot, sunny climates. Its colors normally range from light to dark green. It doesn’t need much water, grows in most soil conditions, and can handle drought well. All these advantages make this grass a desirable choice for many LA homeowners.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, Bermudagrass is perfect for high-traffic areas because it tolerates wear and tear. In fact, it spreads so rapidly that it needs to be mowed frequently and can be invasive if not properly contained.
\n\n\n\nThere are different types of Bermudagrass, from the low-maintenance common Bermudagrass to the high-maintenance hybrid Bermudagrass with a fine texture. Be sure to choose a type that works for you and meets your expectations and preferences.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes (rapidly)
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High, but may turn brown and dormant in an extended drought
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High; grows back quickly after suffering damage
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; some varieties are more shade-tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate; needs mowing once or twice per week and is susceptible to many pest and disease problems
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCalifornia buffalograss, formerly known as UC Verde, is a cultivar of native buffalograss that’s better suited for use in California. This grass is drought-tolerant and dense. It’s a low-maintenance option that requires less water than some of the other grass types. Moreover, it needs little to no chemical treatment and produces less pollen.
\n\n\n\nYou can let your California buffalograss grow freely for a meadow-like look or mow it regularly for a more traditional lawn appearance. In any case, this bright green grass is soft to the touch and tolerates moderate foot traffic, making it an excellent option for your lawn during the summer.
\n\n\n\nOne thing about the California buffalograss: It gets weedy until it’s well-established. Installing sod may be easier. Once established, however, California buffalograss resists weeds.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nIf you just can’t wait to see your new grass, St. Augistinegrass may be a fitting choice for you. This grass germinates quickly, making it ideal for those who want to see results quickly. It’s a blue-green grass with a coarse texture and medium density. Unlike some other warm-season grass types, St. Augustinegrass does well in partial shade.
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, St. Augustinegrass doesn’t withstand drought, heavy foot traffic, and other stresses as well as other grass types. So if you choose it, make sure to provide it with adequate water and care and avoid excessive wear.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low; requires regular watering during dry periods to stay healthy
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate; some cultivars are more shade-tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: High; requires regular irrigation and fertilization to grow healthy
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 3.5 to 4 inches for standard cultivars; 2 to 2.5 inches for dwarf cultivars
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nA number of homeowners favor zoysiagrass for its dense, carpet-like appearance and its ability to handle drought and thrive in various soils. This grass also withstands foot traffic quite well, making it suitable for busy lawns.
\n\n\n\nHowever, this grass is known for its high maintenance needs, too. It needs regular fertilization and supplemental watering to thrive. It may also need pesticides because it is vulnerable to certain pests.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, because zoysiagrass is so dense, thatch builds up rapidly and must be removed frequently. The grass takes a while to grow, which might make sod a better option, but it’s also more expensive.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low; requires supplemental watering, especially during dry periods
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High; dense growth resists damage, and spreading through stolons and rhizomes allows for quick recovery
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Higher maintenance than many other grass types
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Depends on the species and cultivar; ranges from 0.25 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nIt depends on a variety of factors, such as your grass species and soil type. So, make sure that you research the specific needs of your lawn. In general, the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources says that grass should be watered about once or twice a week.
If you want a low-maintenance lawn in Los Angeles, your options are narrowed down to three grass types:
● Sand dune sedge grows in clumps and won’t look like a traditional lawn, but it doesn’t need much water or mowing
● California buffalograss was developed specifically for California, and you can keep it as long or as short as you like, but it might be a challenge to keep it weed-free before it establishes
● California bentgrass is easy to take care of, too; you can either let it grow freely or mow it, but if you prefer the latter, you’ll need to mow it continually to avoid scalping; it also takes longer to grow and its sod is more expensive than alternatives
If you have a busy lawn, there are grasses that can withstand foot traffic and grow back quickly after damage. The best Los Angeles grass types for a lot of foot traffic are:
● Native California bentgrass
● Bermudagrass
● Zoysiagrass
If you like a bit of shade on your lawn, the best grass types for a shady Los Angeles lawn are:
● Native California bentgrass
● Zoysiagrass
● Some varieties of St. Augustinegrass
● A few varieties of Bermudagrass
If you have pets, it’s recommended that you choose a grass type that’s pet-friendly. You can choose between these two warm-season types of grass:
Bermudagrass: is low-maintenance; tolerates a variety of conditions and wear and tear; spreads so quickly that it can become invasive; has a high drought tolerance; but can’t handle shade
Zoysiagrass: its dense growth discourages digging; it can spread dead patches from pet urine; it’s tolerant of shade and various kinds of soil; however, it also has a low drought tolerance and is high-maintenance
Although both of these grass types may be suitable for pets, they have different advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consider your specific needs and the conditions of your lawn before you decide which grass to get.
Establishing a new lawn is an exciting experience, but you want to make sure that you’re choosing the right grass type. To sum it up, there are various kinds of grasses suitable for Los Angeles. The right choice depends on factors such as:
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, it’s important to consider other elements of your yard. If you, for instance, want to plant shrubs or flowers, you should research the best native plants for Los Angeles that will thrive in your specific climate and soil conditions.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll then need to provide your Los Angeles lawn with adequate care throughout the year. This includes, but is not limited to, grass aeration, fertilizing, overseeding, watering, and more. Correct lawn maintenance is needed to help it stay green and lush, so make sure you research all the necessary steps.
\n\n\n\nIf you’d like a pro to take care of your lawn for you, you can get quotes from WikiLawn’s Los Angeles lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Jeff_Hu / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Los Angeles","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/1789c/Lawns.jpg","srcSet":"/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/107df/Lawns.jpg 320w,\n/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/293e9/Lawns.jpg 500w,\n/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/f2cbb/Lawns.jpg 800w,\n/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/1789c/Lawns.jpg 960w,\n/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/c26c2/Lawns.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/1dd6e/Lawns.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/67b76/Lawns.webp 320w,\n/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/8df11/Lawns.webp 500w,\n/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/98a65/Lawns.webp 800w,\n/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/1dd6e/Lawns.webp 960w,\n/static/141e4d75fe4dcf43979c007046caec06/3cc96/Lawns.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Los Angeles | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Are you looking to create a lush green lawn that can withstand the warm LA weather? If so, read on to find out more about your best options."}}},{"node":{"id":"51baf8a4-43de-5e29-844c-efcfb910aeb7","slug":"best-lawn-types-milwaukee","path":"/lawn-care/wi/milwaukee/best-lawn-types-milwaukee/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"b1cda10d-ab68-5c45-b93c-b382b813fb0e","name":"Milwaukee","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wi/milwaukee/"},{"id":"9503671f-e071-545d-b382-450feba6b3a6","name":"Wisconsin","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wi/"}],"date":"July 29th, 2022","excerpt":"After walking across the grass at Lake Park or enjoying the Oak Leaf Trail, you may want to take some of that natural green beauty home with you. We’ve made it easy for you to invite Milwaukee’s organic greenery into your personal space. We highlight the 4 best grass types for Milwaukee’s multiple months of […]
\n","content":"\nAfter walking across the grass at Lake Park or enjoying the Oak Leaf Trail, you may want to take some of that natural green beauty home with you. We’ve made it easy for you to invite Milwaukee’s organic greenery into your personal space. We highlight the 4 best grass types for Milwaukee’s multiple months of shady skies, cool temperatures, and freezing winters.
\n\n\n\nWhether you’re starting a new lawn or improving an existing one, you have two categories of grass to choose from: warm-season and cool-season. Cool-season grasses are the best selection for the Milwaukee area.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses green up and grow when the weather is warm, which is between late spring and early summer. Cool-season grasses green up sooner in spring than warm-season grasses and retain their green color longer in Milwaukee. Cool-season grasses thrive best when air temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees. Warm-season grasses go brown and dormant in the winter, while cool-season grasses go dormant later in the winter than warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses were built for the Milwaukee climate, where temperatures are usually between 18 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit. The grass survives Milwaukee’s below 40-degree winter cold. Since cool-season grass goes dormant when the weather is consistently below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, it may retain its colors through part of the Milwaukee winter.
\n\n\n\nHere are the four best types of cool-season grass for your Milwaukee home:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is the most commonly used grass in Wisconsin lawns. It’s great for lawns with dead spots because it expands and develops new grass to cover up unsightly bald patches. Although it goes brown faster than most other grass varieties during a drought, Kentucky bluegrass can stay alive for up to 60 days in this condition.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass has a strong dark green color and lives for the moist, cool weather of Milwaukee. It requires a lot of maintenance, but it helps prevent erosion. If you don’t mind the high fertilizer needs, and enjoy the exercise from mowing, Kentucky bluegrass will work well for your home.
\n\n\n\nThe long months of cloudy Milwaukee skies are probably more than enough shade for this grass, as it has moderate shade tolerance. This variety grows best on properties that get a lot of sun. With its moderate foot traffic tolerance and soft texture, Kentucky bluegrass is a good option for outdoor events.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is more tolerant of the snow mold that is sometimes found on Wisconsin lawns than tall fescue and perennial ryegrass, but not as resistant as fine fescue.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Used in most pastures in the northeastern part of the country because it tolerates heavy grazing. Varieties developed for lawn use need more watering, dethatching, and fertilization than varieties used for animal feeding.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red-Fescue-a-species-of-fine-fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a great choice to stand up against the Milwaukee snow. Fine fescue is more resistant to snow mold than Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass. For the most tolerant variety, use hard fescue. Sheep fescue and red fescue are moderately tolerant, while chewings fescue will leave your lawn vulnerable to the gray and pink snow mold that have historically damaged Milwaukee lawns.
\n\n\n\nSince it’s the most shade-tolerant cool-season grass, it will grow better on properties with a lot of trees or buildings blocking the sunlight than most other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is often found blended with other grasses and is a good choice for lawns with areas that need reseeding. But your yard may appear a little multicolored, as fine fescue can have a green color lighter than other grasses, and even has a blueish-greenish look.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue has a soft texture, but low to moderate traffic tolerance. It’s not the best grass for regular badminton games even though it provides a soft cushion for falls. The tradeoff is that it’s low maintenance. If you need a lawn that looks well-kept and manicured without a lot of work, and you don’t have a lot of activity in your yard, fine fescue grass is well-suited for your Milwaukee home.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Fine fescue is prone to thatch. It may require dethatching every few years. Chewings is the most shade-tolerant fine fescue species but the most susceptible to snow mold.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHomeowners love to mix this grass because it germinates quickly and produces a full, green canvas. This quick growth is ideal for the short Milwaukee summers.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass has a low tolerance to heat, cold, and drought, but works well with other grasses that are adapted to the cold, like Kentucky bluegrass. It’s recommended that perennial ryegrass is combined with other grasses and not used predominantly.
\n\n\n\nAlthough perennial ryegrass prefers soil with good drainage, it tolerates some poor drainage, making it a good choice for the Milwaukee area. Milwaukee soil ranges from being poorly drained to well-drained.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass has moderate maintenance needs. It requires less mowing than tall fescue and is more tolerant to traffic than any of the other three types of grass. It’s perfect for homeowners who love to throw weekly lawn parties or host outdoor play dates regularly. This is the grass for back-to-back hide-and-seek games. It doesn’t tolerate the shade well, so if your yard is usually a host to the sun’s rays, perennial ryegrass is a good selection.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Mix with Kentucky bluegrass for a more disease-resistant and traffic-resistant lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe wide leaves of tall fescue grass may lead many to mistake it for weeds. It’s cold and shade-tolerant, and the most heat tolerant of all the cool-season grasses. It grows slower than perennial ryegrass, so if you’re looking to establish a lawn more quickly, a blend of perennial ryegrass and one of the other grasses would be better.
\n\n\n\nWhen other grasses are losing their color in winter, tall fescue remains green for longer. This makes it an ideal choice for Milwaukans that like a little green peaking out beneath frosted grass and snow. It’s also a good choice if you need a reason to work in the yard regularly, as it requires frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nWith its coarse texture, moderate foot traffic tolerance, and tendency to slowly recover from damage, tall fescue is not the best choice for yards full of children playing.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when the grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Remains green during the winter, depending on the variety. Grows slower than perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to plant grass seed is between mid-August to mid-September. The warm soil and cooler air temperatures during this time of year help with seed growth. This gives the seed several months to germinate before the cold winter temperatures.
Cool-season grasses go dormant when the soil temperature stays below 45 degrees Fahrenheit consistently. They also go dormant during the summer if it is dry too long or gets too hot. Watering the grass in the summer helps prevent it from going into dormancy and, fortunately, Milwaukee doesn’t get extremely hot.
Fine fescue grasses are low-maintenance. This drought-resistant grass has less mowing, fertilization, and watering needs than other cool-season grasses.
Each type of grass has its own tolerances and conditions for the best growth. Look for a grass type that fits your yard’s properties and your lifestyle. If your lawn has a lot of trees or buildings casting a lot of shade, you’ll want grass that tolerates the shade, such as fine fescue. If you’re prone to experiencing snow mold on your lawn, which can be severely damaging, choose a fine fescue variety like hard fescue.
\n\n\n\nYour soil type, foot traffic, and how much time you want to spend taking care of your lawn all factor into the decision of which type of grass to select. If you’re the house in the neighborhood where children are routinely playing a game of tag, perennial ryegrass is your best choice.
\n\n\n\nPick a grass type that allows you to enjoy the theaters and art galleries in the Historic Third Ward for as long as you desire. That may mean picking a low-maintenance grass and staying away from one that requires frequent mowing and high fertilization, like Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nCall a Milwaukee lawn care professional to get help maintaining a green and thriving lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Hilda and Gustav Pabst House / Lightburst / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Milwaukee","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4962593516209477,"src":"/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/1789c/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg","srcSet":"/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/107df/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 320w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/293e9/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 500w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/f2cbb/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 800w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/1789c/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 960w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/c26c2/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/1dd6e/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/67b76/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 320w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/8df11/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 500w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/98a65/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 800w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/1dd6e/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 960w,\n/static/29d9193214edfa55e3734fac34f8a3ff/3cc96/Hilda-and-Gustav-Pabst-House.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Milwaukee","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want a lush, green lawn? This guide covers the four best grass types for Milwaukee, including fine fescue and perennial ryegrass."}}},{"node":{"id":"52ed8f94-f8d9-5d2d-af15-b15ec425e7f5","slug":"best-native-plants-oregon","path":"/lawn-care/oregon/best-native-plants-oregon/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Austin Geiger is an avid reader and writer. He has loved to read and write from a young age, and does both daily. His favorite subjects are fantasy and comedy, and he despises run-on sentences.","name":"Austin Geiger","id":"69bc552e-2c03-5c38-acc7-562e86f2a201","path":"/author/austin-geiger/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5baab15ab5786cfd4d2372bb580f441c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"b01c7937-99d7-5473-926c-97b8b9c1c454","name":"Oregon","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oregon/"}],"date":"May 14th, 2023","excerpt":"Native plants are a beautiful low-maintenance option if you’re looking to introduce some new flora to your landscape. They’re also beneficial to your local ecosystem and the pollinators that call your area home. Picking out the right ones, however, can be a little tricky. Here are some of the best native plants for Oregon to […]
\n","content":"\nNative plants are a beautiful low-maintenance option if you’re looking to introduce some new flora to your landscape. They’re also beneficial to your local ecosystem and the pollinators that call your area home. Picking out the right ones, however, can be a little tricky. Here are some of the best native plants for Oregon to help you choose your new backyard blooms.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll discuss:
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Mahonia_aquifolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Meggar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a new plant for your Oregon landscape, there’s none better than the state flower. Oregon grape, also called holly-leaved barberry, is a low-maintenance and drought tolerant evergreen shrub with gorgeous yellow flowers that attract several varieties of pollinators such as honey bees and butterflies. It grows edible berries in the early fall, which are a good food source for local birds.
\n\n\n\nOregon grape is a very hardy plant. It has reasonable water needs and can grow in just about any soil type. It prefers partial sun, so plant it in an area where the sun won’t be beating down on it 24/7, but don’t give it full shade, either. This plant makes a great hedge or ground cover as well as a nice addition to a pollinator garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Flowering Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: All. Acidic or neutral pH; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Honey
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid spring to winter
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pacific-Bleeding-Heart-Dicentra-formosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nPacific bleeding heart is an Oregon native wildflower, one with stunning bell-shaped pink flowers. This flower is low-maintenance and a great attractor for pollinators, butterflies and hummingbirds especially. It looks great in flower beds or containers and is a wonderful addition to a pollinator garden.
\n\n\n\nIf you plant bleeding heart, keep in mind that all parts of it are mildly toxic. Touching it may irritate the skin, and if consumed in large amounts, it can do some harm. Make sure to keep pets and small children away from this flower.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, or chalk. Acidic or neutral pH; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Floral
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid spring to mid summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Causes skin irritation on contact; poisonous if ingested in large quantities
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Alder-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Chris Light / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nRed alder is a deciduous broadleaf tree native to Oregon. It has lovely oval-shaped green foliage and grows cones similar to pinecones. This tree can grow up to a mighty 50 feet tall, making it a good centerpiece for your backyard, or can be planted at the edge to provide some shade. Red alder does well in just about any soil and is low-maintenance, even if its water needs are a bit high.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: All; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: None
\n\n\n\nSeason of Interest: Year-round
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 40 to 50 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: May irritate allergies
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Flowering-Currant-Ribes-sanguineum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mark Robinson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nRed flowering currant is an Oregon native shrub with dark green leaves, beautiful tiny pink flowers that pollinators love, and edible berries that attract birds. It’s a low-maintenance plant that tolerates many different soil types, handles either full or partial sun, and has reasonable water needs. This currant is a great edging plant and makes a good addition to a wildlife or pollinator garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Flowering Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: All; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, rosemary
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Early spring to autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 5 to 12 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None; the berries are edible
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Nootka_rose_and_hip_5984947163.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Leslie Seaton / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-2.0
\n\n\n\nDespite its name, Nootka rose is not a flower. It’s a deciduous shrub native to Oregon, one with beautiful bowl-shaped pink flowers that attract many different pollinators. It grows edible fruit called hips, which bring in local birds.
\n\n\n\nNootka rose is a low-maintenance shrub with good water and sun needs, and it can handle many different soil types. It’s a great edging plant for your property border, though it tends to spread, so make sure it doesn’t take over. It’s a great choice for a pollinator or wildlife garden since many birds and small mammals like to nest in it.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Flowering Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: All; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Roses
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Late spring to autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 5 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None; the fruit it grows is edible
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/15037160035_4ed81031c8_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nVine Maple is another Oregon native shrub, one that’s low-maintenance, has only moderate water needs, and handles either full or partial sun. It has nice green leaves that turn into stunning orange, red, and yellow in the fall. Vine Maple also has tiny purple and white flowers that give way to winged fruit, which attracts many different birds and small mammals.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to use Vine Maple in your landscape, it may be best to use it as an ornamental plant. It’s quite a large shrub, and some specimens will grow tall enough to be considered small trees, so if you can get a big enough plant, you can also use it wherever you would a tree.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Flowering Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay or loam; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Maple
\n\n\n\nSeason of Interest: Mid spring to autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 15 to 25 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fawn-Lily.jpg\")
Fawn lily is an Oregon native wildflower with gorgeous upside-down yellow flowers. It’s low-maintenance, can grow in a wide variety of soil types, and likes partial sun. This flower attracts a multitude of different pollinators, including bees, moths, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which makes it a fantastic choice for a pollinator or wildlife garden.
\n\n\n\nFawn lilies go great in flower beds and containers, and their small size makes them an especially good candidate for window boxes. If you plant them, remember that, like all lilies, they are deathly toxic to cats, so keep any feline friends you have out of the garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: All; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Floral
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid to late spring
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 8 inches to 1 foot
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to cats
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nOceanspray, also known as ironwood, is an Oregon native flowering shrub with gorgeous clusters of tiny white flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It’s low-maintenance, has low water needs, tolerates many different soil types, and handles either full or partial sun. If you want to use it in your landscape, it makes a good hedge or ornamental plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Flowering Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: All; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Floral
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Late spring to summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None; the fruit is edible
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Pearly-Everlasting.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Franco Folini / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nPearly everlasting is a perennial wildflower native to Oregon. It grows clusters of tiny white flowers that are very attractive to pollinators. This plant is low-maintenance, can handle full or partial sun, and has good water needs. Pearly everlasting looks wonderful in flower beds or containers and goes great in a pollinator or wildlife garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, loam, or sand; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Musky
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid summer to autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: None; this plant is edible
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Oregon-Sunshine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as golden yarrow or woolly sunflower, Oregon sunshine is an Oregon native perennial wildflower. Its beautiful yellow flowers are very attractive to many different kinds of pollinators. It’s also a very hardy and low-maintenance plant that doesn’t need a lot of water and can handle either full or partial sun.
\n\n\n\nOregon sunshine is a very versatile plant. This flower looks great in flower beds, containers, or window boxes. It’s a great choice for a pollinator garden, a xeriscaped landscape, or any area where you can’t get other plants to grow.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam or sand; well-drained but moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Floral
\n\n\n\nBloom Time/Season of Interest: Late spring to mid summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nWhen choosing new plants for your landscape, the first thing to consider is the environmental conditions it has to offer. If your yard is sunny, for example, you need to be careful not to get plants that do best in the shade. Take note of every condition that would affect your plants and look for ones that match them.
\n\n\n\nOne of the most important aspects is the soil. Composition, pH, and drainage are important for a plant’s health. If you don’t know what kind of soil you have, find out and then look for plants that would grow well in it.
\n\n\n\nAnother good criterion is Oregon’s USDA Hardiness Zone. The Hardiness Zones are used to measure the average minimum temperature in a certain area. Oregon is within zones 4b to 9b, which means that its average minimum temperature is between 30 degrees and negative 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Any plants native to it will likely fit this zone, but you should check anyway to avoid headaches down the road.
\n\n\n\nAll of the plants on this list are native to Northern, Southern, and Western Oregon. Only Oregon grape, Pacific bleeding heart, red alder, red flowering currant, and vine maple are not native to Eastern Oregon.
If given the right environmental conditions and nutrients, it’s entirely possible that native plants can start to take over your landscape and push others out. Thankfully, it’s a simple matter of making sure those plants don’t spread.
Some Oregon native plants to watch out for are red elderberry, mock orange, bitter cherry, and western sword fern.
If your landscape’s environmental conditions don’t match those of the plants you want, you can try to change them within reason. For example, if your landscape is too shady for your sun-loving Douglas fir, you can cut down some of the branches on other trees that are blocking the sun.
If it’s a small enough plant, you can also put it in a container where you can completely control all the conditions to help them thrive. You likely won’t be able to do this with trees such as dogwoods, madrones, or Oregon white oak, however, there are varieties of large plants and native trees, like Oregon crabapple, that are small enough to fit in pots.
If you’re looking for new native plants for your landscape, a good place to start is your local natural areas. Take a hike through natural parks, like Crater Lake National Park, Willamette Valley, or the Cascades, and take note of some of the native flora you see. To keep from upsetting a delicate ecosystem, however, do not take plants directly from the wild.
\n\n\n\nIn order to ethically and safely obtain native plants, purchase from nurseries endorsed by the Native Plant Society of Oregon. They can help you find beautiful native plants such as manzanitas, serviceberry, columbines, and evergreen huckleberry.
\n\n\n\nIf you need more general lawn care or landscaping help, contact a lawn care professional near you. We have trusted landscaping professionals in Portland and other cities throughout the state that can handle your outdoor needs.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Red-flowering currant / Peter Stevens / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Oregon","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/1789c/Red-Flowering-Currant.jpg","srcSet":"/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/107df/Red-Flowering-Currant.jpg 320w,\n/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/293e9/Red-Flowering-Currant.jpg 500w,\n/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/f2cbb/Red-Flowering-Currant.jpg 800w,\n/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/1789c/Red-Flowering-Currant.jpg 960w,\n/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/c26c2/Red-Flowering-Currant.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/1dd6e/Red-Flowering-Currant.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/67b76/Red-Flowering-Currant.webp 320w,\n/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/8df11/Red-Flowering-Currant.webp 500w,\n/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/98a65/Red-Flowering-Currant.webp 800w,\n/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/1dd6e/Red-Flowering-Currant.webp 960w,\n/static/db42955d23fbb119976f02dd7d26d59f/3cc96/Red-Flowering-Currant.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Oregon | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Native plants are an important part of your local ecosystem. Here are some of the best native plants for Oregon landscapes."}}}],"postCity":{"node":{"name":"Houston","slug":"houston","state":{"name":"Texas","slug":"tx"},"suburbs":[{"name":"Sugar Land","slug":"sugar-land"},{"name":"Friendswood","slug":"friendswood"},{"name":"La Porte","slug":"la-porte"},{"name":"Texas City","slug":"texas-city"},{"name":"Alvin","slug":"alvin"},{"name":"Stafford","slug":"stafford"},{"name":"Angleton","slug":"angleton"},{"name":"Baytown","slug":"baytown"},{"name":"Dickinson","slug":"dickinson"},{"name":"Galveston","slug":"galveston"},{"name":"Pasadena","slug":"pasadena"},{"name":"Missouri City","slug":"missouri-city"},{"name":"Tomball","slug":"tomball"},{"name":"Deer Park","slug":"deer-park"},{"name":"Pearland","slug":"pearland"},{"name":"Porter","slug":"porter"},{"name":"Cleveland","slug":"cleveland"},{"name":"Conroe","slug":"conroe"},{"name":"Dayton","slug":"dayton"},{"name":"Humble","slug":"humble"},{"name":"Lake Jackson","slug":"lake-jackson"},{"name":"Richmond","slug":"richmond"},{"name":"League City","slug":"league-city"},{"name":"Montgomery","slug":"montgomery"},{"name":"Willis","slug":"willis"},{"name":"Rosenberg","slug":"rosenberg"},{"name":"Spring","slug":"spring"},{"name":"Magnolia","slug":"magnolia"},{"name":"Cypress","slug":"cypress"},{"name":"Katy","slug":"katy"}],"parentCity":null}}}}}![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Oceanspray.jpg\")