![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/u86Wbq_OrfgflIQ4UwsGSsKkvs-_qUV7_7du0YbfZUuFs650k0FlFZeIFYPsOdNJOvQxrqJGjNxYDjPuIITACghhlesR5X7tgLubV0NWjFJjiBt8TRzQGrCo_6DDY7Nwf8fM0pPM\")
You may be hot, but you can get into hot water if you use too much water in Houston. With average summertime temperatures in the mid-90s, it’s an absolute must to stick with the city’s water conservation plan. Watering restrictions in and around Houston are in place because drought in Texas is common. Sticking to […]
\n","content":"\nYou may be hot, but you can get into hot water if you use too much water in Houston. With average summertime temperatures in the mid-90s, it’s an absolute must to stick with the city’s water conservation plan. Watering restrictions in and around Houston are in place because drought in Texas is common. Sticking to the watering rules will help you avoid any sticky situations, later on.
\n\n\n\nLocal lakes and rivers make up Houston’s water supply. Eighty-six percent comes from the Trinity River into Lake Livingston, and the San Jacinto River into lakes Houston and Conroe. The rest comes from deeply-drilled underground wells into the Chicot and Evangeline aquifers. With roughly 2.3 million people living and working in the city, and more on the outskirts, the need for water isn’t exaggerated. Houston’s Public Works Department estimates Harris County’s population will exceed 5.5 million people in the next 30 years.
\n\n\n\nIn the end, Mother Nature decides how much water lakes, rivers, and aqueducts will provide.
\n\n\n\nIn a “normal” summer, water customers can irrigate their lawns between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. Homeowners whose addresses end in even numbers can water on Sundays and Thursdays. Addresses ending in odd numbers may water on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Businesses and the like can water the grass on Tuesdays and Fridays. These watering times differ in severe droughts and shortages.
\n\n\n\nViolating Houston’s drought contingency plan rules during dry periods can cost you! Although there are exceptions for new lawns, violations of Stage Two restrictions can lead to fines ranging from $100 to $2,000. Stage Three violations can cost you $500 at the very least (up to $2,000). Blowing off the rules at Stage Four means a fine starting at a grand or higher – this in addition to surcharges tacked on to your next several water bills. AND … there is the possibility of having your Houston area water service disconnected. The expense, hassle, and inconvenience of wading through the paperwork far outweigh that of sticking to the city’s water conservation plan.
\n\n\n\nGiven the summer heat in the Houston area and the everlasting need to preserve nature’s precious resources, it’s always a good idea to have a basic maintenance plan for your yard.
\n\n\n\nThe standard of lawn watering is to provide an inch of water once a week, or half an inch twice a week. Rainfall is best, but when it’s not raining, you can set up your sprinkler to run during Houston’s schedule of watering hours. The best time to water is at 4 a.m. so the soil and roots of the grass can soak it all in before the heat of the day. Too much water and watering during the heat of the day is a waste, and it can lead to disease and grass damage.
\n\n\n\nYou can do your part to save water by:
\n\n\n\nThe city and county will put out the word if there are watering restrictions in and around Houston, but think of it this way: When in doubt, prepare for drought.
\n\n\n\nHave more questions about how Houston’s local watering restrictions affect your lawn and landscape? Please visit our Houston, TX lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"Watering Restrictions in and Around Houston","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/1789c/sprinkler-3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/107df/sprinkler-3.jpg 320w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/293e9/sprinkler-3.jpg 500w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/f2cbb/sprinkler-3.jpg 800w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/1789c/sprinkler-3.jpg 960w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/6f669/sprinkler-3.jpg 1950w","srcWebp":"/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/1dd6e/sprinkler-3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/67b76/sprinkler-3.webp 320w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/8df11/sprinkler-3.webp 500w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/98a65/sprinkler-3.webp 800w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/1dd6e/sprinkler-3.webp 960w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/ca720/sprinkler-3.webp 1950w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Watering Restrictions in and Around Houston | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Water conservation is serious business in Texas. Learn the watering restrictions in and around Houston to avoid hefty fines and high water bills."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"abd586fe-1177-5f3e-b31e-387c8910070f","slug":"best-grass-types-madison","path":"/lawn-care/wi/madison/best-grass-types-madison/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nick Crawford is a blog writer based in Philadelphia. He enjoys writing just as much as he enjoys reading a good book, cooking, and working out in his spare time.","name":"Nick Crawford","id":"5213edde-9943-5767-a5ae-163493ecfae5","path":"/author/nick-crawford/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/7ce3281d49bd9eb99cb1c4f0200247d3?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"27d6508f-d9d9-5a0b-a13f-ab8026afd8e9","name":"Madison","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wi/madison/"},{"id":"9503671f-e071-545d-b382-450feba6b3a6","name":"Wisconsin","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wi/"}],"date":"April 5th, 2023","excerpt":"Madison is the fastest-growing city in Wisconsin in terms of population growth. So many people means a wide variety of lawns, and Madison has no shortage of grass types to fill those booming landscapes. If you want to install a new lawn or breathe life into an existing lawn, these four grass types make for […]
\n","content":"\nMadison is the fastest-growing city in Wisconsin in terms of population growth. So many people means a wide variety of lawns, and Madison has no shortage of grass types to fill those booming landscapes. If you want to install a new lawn or breathe life into an existing lawn, these four grass types make for a fantastic starting point in Madison.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nYou may be wondering what would make a type of grass suitable for a Madison lawn. After all, as long as the grass is green, it should work, right?
\n\n\n\nWell, there are factors to consider when choosing your grass that will make your lawn care journey much smoother and more hassle-free. The three main concerns are as follows.
\n\n\n\nThe weather can get pretty cold in the Midwest during certain times of the year. Even during the high summer, the average temperature sits around 82 degrees and rarely climbs above 90 degrees. In addition to the lower temperatures, Madison sees a lot of cloudy days.
\n\n\n\nWhen choosing grass for your lawn, you should go with a cool-season species that doesn’t require a lot of sunlight. Many cool-season grass types will go dormant in the summer, but Madison’s milder heat means that they can stay green for longer periods of time. Combined with the ability to withstand the cold of winter, cool-season grass types remain beautiful for the majority of the year.
\n\n\n\nMadison is located in southern Wisconsin, a region built on silty forest soil. In fact, the designated state soil is Antigo Silt Loam, which is a well-drained soil formed under loamy sediment left behind by glacial melt thousands of years ago.
\n\n\n\nWhile you could replace the soil on your property with something wetter and less sandy, it’s easier to grow grass in the natural material that already exists. So, your grass should be able to thrive in loamy, sandy soil.
\n\n\n\nDo you intend to host barbecues, garden parties, or other events? How often would you like to mow your lawn? To what height do you want your grass to grow?
\n\n\n\nThese are all things you should consider when growing your lawn. Some grass types will be softer than others. Some will hold up to foot traffic better than others. And some grass types grow prodigiously, while others may not.
\n\n\n\nIt’s vital to find a grass type that suits your needs to ensure that you will be happy with your lawn for years to come.
\n\n\n\nTo cultivate a beautiful Madison lawn, these four grass types will be your best bet.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWidely considered one of the most popular cool-season choices for lawns across the midwest, Kentucky Bluegrass is highly drought-tolerant. It can also withstand some heat, though without a supplemental water supply, it will go dormant in the summer.
\n\n\n\nThe bluish-green leaves of Kentucky bluegrass grow into a lush carpet that retains its color year-round. It prefers full sun but will tolerate the shade of those cloudy days.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass.
\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\nIf you’re looking for grass that will help you get a jump start on spring planting, perennial ryegrass is your best bet. It’s one of the first grass types to turn green as soon as the snow melts and the temperatures begin rising.
\n\n\n\nThe University of Wisconsin-Madison recommends perennial ryegrass mainly for grazing and foraging. However, you’ll find it mixed with other grass types like Kentucky bluegrass to lend its hardiness and provide erosion protection.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue encompasses a group of cool-season grasses that includes hard fescue, sheep fescue, chewings fescue, and creeping red fescue. This group possesses fantastic drought tolerance among cool-season grasses, and its leaves remain green all year long if cared for properly.
\n\n\n\nWhile fine fescues don’t have the best heat tolerance, their superior ability to withstand shade puts them in the mix with grass types like perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ty Haller / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue is another grass commonly seen across the Midwest, and with good reason. It possesses some of the best heat and drought tolerance among cool-season grass types while still retaining the ability to remain green during the winter months.
\n\n\n\nThe name tall fescue is not a flippant moniker, however. This turf grass can grow as much as four feet tall and requires more frequent mowing than other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nWhile Madison doesn’t experience particularly hot summers, it may be good to add sprigs of Bermudagrass to your lawn. This warm-season grass has great heat and drought tolerance while mixing well with Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass. Be sure to plant the turfgrass strain, however, as primitive strains spread aggressively enough to be considered a nuisance.
If your lawn is shady, you should consider a mix of tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. The mix is highly shade resistant while still providing a lush lawn.
Kentucky bluegrass is as popular as it is partially because it is a low-maintenance grass that still spreads into a beautiful lawn. You don’t need to water it as often as other cool-season grass types, and it doesn’t require as much fertilizer to retain its green hue.
The frosty temperatures of winter combined with mild Summer days make cool-season grasses the best choice for your Madison lawn. And though some of them can be low maintenance, they still need to be maintained. If you would like to worry less about that maintenance, leave it in the hands of a local lawn care pro who will take the best possible care of your landscape.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Bradley House / James Steakley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types For Madison, Wisconsin","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/1789c/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg","srcSet":"/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/107df/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 320w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/293e9/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 500w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/f2cbb/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 800w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/1789c/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 960w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/c26c2/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/1dd6e/Bradley-House-Madison.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/67b76/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 320w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/8df11/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 500w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/98a65/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 800w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/1dd6e/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 960w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/3cc96/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types For Madison, Wisconsin","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Which grass types can you plant to withstand the nip of a Midwest winter? Here are four of the best choices for your Madison, Wisconsin lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"3163ae33-24fa-539d-a4ae-42162d441c6a","slug":"lawn-mowing-maintenance-fort-worth","path":"/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/lawn-mowing-maintenance-fort-worth/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"9ccd5174-167e-5379-890b-68ac830ec905","name":"Forth Worth","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 8th, 2019","excerpt":"Fort Worth has something to make everyone smile – plentiful sunshine, a square-jawed Western heritage, taco and barbecue joints everywhere and museums and universities galore. And lawns. Lots of lawns that need mowing watering and trimming. Here’s a guide to how to keep your Fort Worth lawn happy so you can spend more time on […]
\n","content":"\nFort Worth has something to make everyone smile – plentiful sunshine, a square-jawed Western heritage, taco and barbecue joints everywhere and museums and universities galore.
\n\n\n\nAnd lawns. Lots of lawns that need mowing watering and trimming. Here’s a guide to how to keep your Fort Worth lawn happy so you can spend more time on it, and more time enjoying the 13th-largest city in the United States.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth likes you to keep up the appearance of your lawn. In fact, it insists, in the form of a code compliance office that will issue you a notice if your grass is taller than 12 inches. Properties overgrown with high grass and weeds are not just unsightly, the city says, but “they pose a fire hazard, block visibility for driers, harbor rodents and snakes and contribute to pests like mosquitoes and chiggers.”
\n\n\n\nIgnore the notice for more than 10 days and the city will send out a crew to cut it for you. The cost: $250, payable within 30 days. Failure to pay can result in a lien being placed against the property.
\n\n\n\nIf your neighbor’s grass gets too high, the city makes it easy to file a complaint online.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass are the most common grasses for lawns in Fort Worth. Zoysia varieties are also making their mark.
\n\n\n\nIn the mood for something more exotic? Texas-bred native grasses based on buffalograss have great drought tolerance, though the appearance is scruffily untraditional. The Botanical Research Institute of Texas in Fort Worth is one of many buildings experimenting with a buffalograss blend.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses such as the ones that thrive in Fort Worth have their heaviest growth in the summer, so you’ll want to keep to a regular mowing schedule then. If you’re doing the job yourself in the 90+ degree heat, keep your mower blades sharp to prevent shredding that could injure your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMowing heights for different grass varieties are as follows:
\n\n\n\nIn the past, the typical practice was to remove lawn clippings and have them hauled to the landfill. That’s no longer the case, as lawn clippings are now seen as an important source of fertilizer for the lawn. On a typical lawn, leaving the clippings in place to decompose and return nitrogen to the soil for a full season added enough nutrients for you to skip one round of fertilization.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth’s climate is on the hot side, with average highs in the mid-90s in July and August. Expect about 40 inches of rain, with May, June and October the wettest months. That leaves a lot of hot, dry days in the mid to late summer in between, when your lawn will want a deep drink of water. But you’ll need to follow the city’s watering restrictions, imposed year-round to conserve the resource. Lawn irrigation by sprinkler or irrigation system is banned from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Penalties are stiff for violation: up to $2,000 for each offense.
\n\n\n\nBe polite and don’t mow too early or too late. The city has a noise ordinance. While it does not mention lawn mowers or leaf blowers specifically, it does bar “unreasonable noise,” especially at night.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about lawn mowing and maintenance in Fort Worth? We got you covered! Go to our Fort Worth, TX lawn care page for more information.
Hartford is a city of historic landmarks, green parks, and beautiful gardens. There are many inspiring sights, from the scenery of the Connecticut River to the blossoms of Elizabeth Park. If you’re looking to add some natural beauty to your own backyard, you’re in the right place. Let’s discuss which type of grass is best […]
\n","content":"\nHartford is a city of historic landmarks, green parks, and beautiful gardens. There are many inspiring sights, from the scenery of the Connecticut River to the blossoms of Elizabeth Park. If you’re looking to add some natural beauty to your own backyard, you’re in the right place.
\n\n\n\nLet’s discuss which type of grass is best for your Hartford backyard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nNot every type of grass is suitable for Hartford’s climate and soil conditions. Grass types are divided into two main categories:
\n\n\n\nHartford has warm, sunny summers and cold, snowy winters. That means that cool-season grasses are the best choice for Hartford’s climate. Find out more about the best grasses for Hartford below.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass-2.jpg\")
Pilot138-17 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a high-quality, blue-green grass that thrives in direct sunlight. Because of its cold resistance, it’s especially popular in the northern parts of the country. Another of its advantages is that if it suffers damage, it can self-repair.
\n\n\n\nThis grass does well in cold climates but can have trouble in poor soil and excessive heat. It grows slowly and doesn’t tolerate shade as well as other varieties of grass. It also has shallow roots, which is why it needs a lot of water.
\n\n\n\nMoreover, Kentucky bluegrass is vulnerable to diseases and pests more than other grass types. That’s why it’s often mixed with other grasses, such as perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Underground stems (known as rhizomes)
Shade tolerance: Partial shade to full sun
Drought tolerance: High but long periods of drought will lead to dormancy
Foot traffic tolerance: High in colder weather, lower in warmer seasons
Maintenance needs: Provide an inch of water weekly; mow every 5 to 7 days; fertilize 1 to 3 times a year
Recommended mowing height: 1 to 3 inches
![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Poa-Trivialis-Winterplay.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRough bluegrass is similar to Kentucky bluegrass, but with a few distinct differences. It’s a yellow and light-green grass with a rougher texture that grows in areas with more shade.
\n\n\n\nHowever, this grass is less resistant to heat and needs more shade and moisture in the summer. It doesn’t mix with other grasses as well as its counterpart. Rough bluegrass also has poor wear tolerance and doesn’t salt well. Additionally, it has a medium-to-high potential for disease.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Rhizomes
Shade tolerance: High
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: Moderate
Maintenance needs: High
Recommended mowing height: 1.5 to 2.5 inches
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass stands out for its low maintenance and rapid growth. This medium-to-dark green grass tolerates cold and is resistant to damage once it’s been established. Because of its strength, perennial ryegrass is sometimes mixed with other grass types, like Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nOf course, this grass type comes with cons, too. It doesn’t do well in heat and has low resistance to diseases and pests. If it suffers damage, it won’t self-repair. On the upside, it will grow back quickly if you reseed it. But then again, this grass spreads so quickly and aggressively that it may become an issue. If you’re going to get perennial ryegrass, make sure you manage it carefully.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Produces neither rhizomes nor stolons; you’ll need to seed or lay sod on the entire lawn to grow this grass
Shade tolerance: Moderate
Drought tolerance: Moderate, depending on the variety
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance needs: Mow and water frequently; fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks
Recommended mowing height: 1.5 to 2.5 inches
![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ty Haller / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a medium-to-dark green, versatile grass type that’s excellent at withstanding heat, foot traffic, diseases, and weeds. It can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. Tall fescue grows quickly and doesn’t need much maintenance except frequent mowing to keep its height in check.
\n\n\n\nOn the downside, this grass won’t repair itself if damaged, but it can be reseeded. It should then grow back relatively quickly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Grows in clumps and spreads through tillers (vertical shoots that grow from the base of the plant)
Shade tolerance: High
Drought tolerance: Very high
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Maintenance needs: Best to mow weekly; requires minimal fertilization; water as needed or it will go dormant
Recommended mowing height: 3.5 to 4 inches
There are many kinds of fine fescue to choose from, but generally, this grass type is versatile and low maintenance. It’s a medium to dark green grass that withstands both full sun and partial shade and is relatively drought resistant (although it may go dormant in drought).
\n\n\n\nFine fescue isn’t resistant to diseases and wear and tear, so take care of it and keep foot traffic to a minimum. Also, be careful with fertilizers. Too many fertilizers can cause high thatch levels, which can choke the grass and lead to diseases.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
Spreads by: Stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (modified stems that run underground)
Shade tolerance: High
Drought tolerance: High
Foot traffic tolerance: Moderate to low; not best for heavy foot traffic
Maintenance needs: Mow every 2 to 3 weeks until growth slows in the summer; fertilize 2 to 4 times a year; aerate once a year
Recommended mowing height: 3 to 3.5 inches
If you want a low-maintenance lawn, consider planting fine fescue. Just make sure you mow it regularly to keep its height between 2.5 and 4 inches. It should never be shorter than 2 inches.
Kentucky bluegrass is your best option, especially during winter. It’s excellent at repairing itself but is more susceptible to damage during warmer months. Alternatively, perennial ryegrass and tall fescue both tolerate foot traffic. However, they’ll need reseeding if damage occurs. On the upside, they grow back quickly.
If your lawn is shaded, fine fescue grass, tall fescue grass, and rough bluegrass are all good choices.
Kentucky bluegrass is soft, withstands foot traffic, and repaiurs itself. Again, just take note that it’s less resistant during warm months.
When you’re deciding on the best grass for your Hartford lawn, consider a variety of factors, including your personal aesthetic preferences, how the lawn will be used, and maintenance requirements. This guide should help you get a picture of how Hartford grasses differ from each other.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to establish a beautiful lawn for the years to come, your next step could be adding native Hartford plants. These plants are well suited to the local climate and soil conditions. That means they require less maintenance and are beneficial to the environment. Make sure you also research how to care for your lawn at each time of the year.
\n\n\n\nMaintaining your lawn is no easy task. It involves consistent effort and knowledge of the specific needs of your plants. You can keep your lawn green and healthy with services from WikiLawn’s Hartford lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Ragesoss / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Hartford, Connecticut","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/1789c/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.jpg","srcSet":"/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/107df/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.jpg 320w,\n/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/293e9/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.jpg 500w,\n/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/f2cbb/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.jpg 800w,\n/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/1789c/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.jpg 960w,\n/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/c26c2/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/1dd6e/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/67b76/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.webp 320w,\n/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/8df11/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.webp 500w,\n/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/98a65/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.webp 800w,\n/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/1dd6e/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.webp 960w,\n/static/97f82f1f984786d4a838323a903b294c/3cc96/Daniel-Hosmer-House-in-West-Hartford.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Hartford, Connecticut","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Which are the best grass types for your Hartford yard, and what are their pros and cons? Read on to find out."}}},{"node":{"id":"4117cfd1-d2b9-5ebc-934a-8c3d719d4601","slug":"native-trees-washington","path":"/lawn-care/wa/native-trees-washington/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"7987b7f7-662d-55d4-9011-4af5647aa2dd","name":"Washington","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wa/"}],"date":"May 29th, 2023","excerpt":"Within the picturesque landscapes of Washington State, a realm of natural treasures awaits. Here, native trees proudly stand as guardians of the land, their roots firmly grounded in this diverse region. These majestic trees native to Washington State offer many advantages, providing a food source for wildlife and a source of inspiration for the vibrant […]
\n","content":"\nWithin the picturesque landscapes of Washington State, a realm of natural treasures awaits. Here, native trees proudly stand as guardians of the land, their roots firmly grounded in this diverse region. These majestic trees native to Washington State offer many advantages, providing a food source for wildlife and a source of inspiration for the vibrant culture that thrives throughout the state.
\n\n\n\nFrom the towering forests of Olympic National Park to the urban arboreal havens of Seattle and Tacoma, Washington’s native trees add a distinct flavor to each cityscape, infusing the air with a crisp freshness that invigorates both body and spirit.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover the following:
\n\n\n\n![\"Douglas](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Douglas-Fir.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn the magnificent forests of Washington, the douglas fir reigns supreme as a true giant among trees. Standing tall and proud, it boasts an impressive stature, earning its reputation as one of the largest trees on our planet. This majestic conifer is one of the most important timber species in the United States.
\n\n\n\nAs a young evergreen tree, douglas fir has a narrow and spired pyramidal shape. Its lower branches gracefully droop while the upper ones ascend with determination. When mature, it undergoes a stunning metamorphosis. The once conical form gives way to a cylindrical silhouette, shedding its lower branches until only the top third of the tree remains adorned with verdant foliage.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, clay, loam. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: A delightfully sweet scent fills the air when the Douglas fir needles are gently crushed.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: All year.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 40 to 80 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Keep it well watered since it is intolerant to drought. It is easy to transplant when it is small.
\n\n\n\n![\"Western](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Western-Red-Cedar.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Robert Linsdell from St. Andrews, Canada / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDeep within the lush forests of Washington, the western red cedar stands as a living testament to the passage of time. With a lifespan that stretches across centuries, some of its elder brethren boast an astounding age exceeding a millennium, proudly bearing the weight of history upon their sturdy branches.
\n\n\n\nThe Western Red Cedar showcases a silhouette that ranges from narrow to broad, resembling a pyramidal shape. This resilient giant may develop a buttressed base. Trees in compact spaces find an elegance in their narrower shape, while those gifted with abundant room embrace a broader form.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: When crushed it emits a distinctive, sweet pineapple or pear drop-like smell.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 50 to 70 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate. It does not tolerate drought.
\n\n\n\n![\"Sitka](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Sitka-Spruce.jpg\")
Photo Credit: born1945 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn the beautiful woodlands of Washington, the Sitka spruce stands tall. This noble native tree is a sight to behold, with an open crown that reaches towards the sky, adorned with branches that sway and dance. Its vibrant foliage showcases stiff, four-sided needles in a mesmerizing blue-green hue.
\n\n\n\nThe Sitka spruce’s ever-transforming bark changes from smooth and silvery gray in its youth to purplish-brown hues when mature.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sitka spruce essential oil’s piney, earthy, woodsy scent can offer relief and relaxation during the cold season.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: All year
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 50 to 250 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Ponderosa-Pine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe mighty ponderosa pine is a true icon of the Western United States. This magnificent pine stands tall and proud and is known for its dominance and value as a timber resource. Its dark yellowish-green needles, arranged in bundles of three, create a lush and vibrant canopy that captivates the eye.
\n\n\n\nAs we venture closer, we can admire the tree’s fascinating transformation. Young trees boast a striking dark brown to black bark. Yet, as the ponderosa pine matures, its bark evolves into a warm orangish-brown hue adorned with intricate furrows and large scaly plates. Truly a spectacle to behold, this tree embodies strength and resilience.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: The bark, stems, and needles emit a resinous or turpentine scent when broken or crushed.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 60 to 125 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Induces abortion in cattle.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. No tolerance for shade. Established trees tolerate some dry soil conditions.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Alder.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Chris Light / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis deciduous tree exudes grace and elegance in the forests of Washington. Standing tall with a straight trunk and crowned with pointed or rounded branches, the red alder is a sight to behold. Its bark, adorned in a mottled pattern of light gray to whitish hues, is remarkably smooth to the touch.
\n\n\n\nBut what truly sets this tree apart is its ability to nurture its surroundings. Beneath the surface, they develop intriguing swellings or root nodules housing nitrogen-fixing bacteria, nature’s very own soil enrichers. These bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into valuable chemicals that act as natural fertilizers, nourishing the surrounding plants.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial sun, shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, chalk, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist, but well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous Perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: The bark has a strong aromatic smell similar to cottonwood.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Wet.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 66 to 98 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. The growth rate of this tree is quite rapid, and it spreads through the dispersal of its seeds. It favors the combination of cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers for optimal growth and development.
\n\n\n\n![\"Paper](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Paper-Birch.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Plant Image Library / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis tree tells a story with its ever-evolving shape and captivating features. When young, the paper birch takes on a loosely pyramidal form. As it matures, its silhouette transforms into a charming irregular oval to a rounded shape, often retaining low branches.
\n\n\n\nThe paper birch can be trained to grow with multiple trunks, creating a picturesque display. But what steals the show is its exquisite bark. Cloaked in a pristine white coat, it exfoliates gracefully, unveiling strips of papery wonder that reveal a beautiful orange-brown inner bark. Over time, as the tree matures, black markings emerge, painting a stunning contrast on its snowy canvas.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance:It has a sweet woody sappy green fragrance.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 50 to 70 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate.It is better to prune during its dormant season. It is important to avoid pruning during winter or spring when the sap is actively flowing, as it may result in bleeding.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pacific](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pacific-Madrone.jpg\")
Photo Credit: brewbooks / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Pacific madrone is a tree that dazzles the senses with its splendid display of springtime elegance. As the season blooms, this tree adorns itself with white bell-shaped flowers, creating a breathtaking spectacle. But the magic doesn’t end there, for these blossoms give way to round fruits that mature into a striking shade of red, adding a vibrant burst of color to the forest landscape.
\n\n\n\nThe bark sheds its old skin to reveal its true beauty. From its stunning flowers to its fiery fruits and the captivating spectacle of its peeling bark, the Pacific madrone invites us to celebrate the ever-changing nature and find joy in the vibrant tapestry of life.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to part shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: It exudes a strong honey smell that attracts bees and fruit-eating birds like waxwings and robins.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 20 to 80 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. They are difficult to transplant and can be slow to establish.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pacific](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pacific-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Paul Schultz from Kenmore, USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Pacific dogwood tree presents itself with a dense, conical, or rounded crown. Its branches, arranged in a graceful, horizontal-tiered fashion, create a picturesque display that evokes a sense of serenity and harmony. The Pacific dogwood has delicate, white flowers.
\n\n\n\nAs the seasons shift, the Pacific dogwood continues to delight. It adorns itself with orange to red fruits, adding a touch of autumnal splendor to the landscape. And when the foliage begins its transition, the tree’s leaves transform into a captivating shade of yellow-orange, painting the surroundings with a vibrant burst of color.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial sun.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: It has a strong but pleasant floral scent similar to sweet honeysuckle.
\n\n\n\nSeason of interest: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 40 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Moderate. Established plants have some drought tolerance.
\n\n\n\nIn the vast landscapes of Washington, the western red cedars claim the title of the state’s towering giants. These majestic evergreen conifers dominate the coastal regions, reaching impressive heights of 100 to 200 feet and boasting 9 feet or more diameters.
Here’s a list of other native tree species in Washington:
• Vine Maple (Acer circinatum)
• Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla)
• Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia)
When embarking on a backyard landscaping project in Washington, tapping into the expertise of local nurseries becomes crucial. Opting for native trees and plants from these nurseries ensures they are well-suited to the region’s climate and soil conditions, enhancing their resilience and long-term maintenance.
\n\n\n\nRemember that Washington State predominantly falls under USDA hardiness zones 7 and 8, with average minimum temperatures ranging from 5 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, selecting suitable plants or trees is the first step in creating a thriving landscape. Ongoing care and maintenance are vital for its sustained health and vitality.
\n\n\n\nTo ensure the best results for your yard, consider hiring a lawn care pro near you to handle the mowing, trimming, and edging. We can connect you with trusted pros in Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, and many other cities throughout the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Washington State Capitol Building / Pastajosh / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"8 Trees Native to Washington State","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/1789c/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/107df/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 320w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/293e9/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 500w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/f2cbb/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 800w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/1789c/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 960w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/c26c2/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/1dd6e/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/67b76/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 320w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/8df11/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 500w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/98a65/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 800w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/1dd6e/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 960w,\n/static/c9da6866d196f17b71600270fa9a00c2/3cc96/The-Washington-State-Capitol-Building.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Trees Native to Washington State","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the 8 trees native to Washington State, boosting aesthetics and supporting local ecosystem preservation."}}},{"node":{"id":"0aa326f9-3c0e-5cb2-bddd-be154a086cd3","slug":"lawn-aeration-guide","path":"/lawn-care/lawn-aeration-guide/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Taha Javed is a freelance writer and business student in Lahore, Pakistan. She loves swimming, reading, and playing with her dog.","name":"Taha Javed","id":"0531d17c-e9c8-5153-a6fb-6e2994f71716","path":"/author/taha-javed/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/877749883781783414fae4d0b98beb69?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":"Lawn aeration is essential if the soil in your yard has become compacted over time. This simple yet powerful procedure can revitalize grass and improve its general health. We’ll cover all the information you need to aerate your lawn correctly, including when and how to aerate your lawn and why your grass might need it. […]
\n","content":"\nLawn aeration is essential if the soil in your yard has become compacted over time. This simple yet powerful procedure can revitalize grass and improve its general health. We’ll cover all the information you need to aerate your lawn correctly, including when and how to aerate your lawn and why your grass might need it.
\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/6baa5fee-5658-4828-9be8-cf92497e9b5f.jpg\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nYour lawn is continuously communicating with you, so pay attention to the cues it gives you. You can identify when it’s time to aerate by paying attention to the state of your lawn. Here are some key indicators that your lawn could benefit from aeration:
\n\n\n\nThe best time for lawn aeration is determined by the type of grass in your yard. In general, aerating your lawn during your grass’s growing season is optimal because the grass is active and can recover rapidly from the aeration process. Since cool-season and warm-season grasses have different growing seasons, the best time to aerate them is different.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLate spring or early summer is the ideal time to aerate warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass. It is the beginning of the grass’s growth season, so your lawn has enough time to recover from the stress of aeration before the hottest part of summer. Spring aeration also helps to alleviate soil compaction caused by winter conditions, allowing the grass to access vital nutrients and moisture more efficiently.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe best time for lawn aeration in cool-season lawns with grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue is early fall or early spring. Aerating in the fall not only aids in reducing soil compaction but also promotes root development to help grass prepare for winter dormancy.
\n\n\n\nNote: Before aerating, evaluate the present weather conditions and soil moisture content. Don’t aerate your lawn after heavy rainfall; wait for it to dry.
\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\nAerating your lawn may appear to be a difficult task, but it can be a simple and rewarding process with the appropriate approach. Here’s a step-by-step strategy to aerate your lawn as efficiently as possible.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSharpen your mower’s blade and mow your grass shorter than usual. It allows for easier soil access during aeration. Watering your lawn 1 inch deep a day or two before aeration is also important to keep the soil moist but not overly saturated.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore aerating your grass, mark any sprinkler heads or other obstacles to avoid damaging them. Call 811 a few days before you plan to aerate so someone can come out and mark your utility lines.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere are two primary methods for aerating a lawn: spike aeration and core aeration.
\n\n\n\nSpike aeration is the process of poking holes in the soil with spikes, either by hand or with a tool.
\n\n\n\nCore aeration removes small cores or plugs of soil from the lawn. Core aeration is often favored because it creates more space in the soil, producing better results and more benefits.
\n\n\n\n![\"illustration](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Aeration-illustration.png\")
Graphic by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Person](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/aerate-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeffoto / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nThere are various varieties of aerators available, each with its unique set of benefits. Consider the following options when choosing the right aeration equipment for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nNote: To pick the best sort of aerator for your needs, consider the size of your lawn, budget, and individual needs. Renting aerators is a cost-effective choice for infrequent use, but owning one may be more practical for frequent or large-scale aeration needs.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"illustration](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/aeration-patterns.png\")
Graphic by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nBegin by walking or towing the aerator around your lawn’s perimeter, working your way inward. To ensure comprehensive coverage, slightly overlap each pass, or follow a crisscross pattern to cover your space entirely. Continue aerating the lawn until it is completely covered.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLeave the soil plugs from core aerators on the lawn to break down naturally, or collect and compost them for later use.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAfter the aeration is finished, try top-dressing the lawn with a thin coating of compost or sand. It improves soil structure and adds valuable organic matter. Lightly water the lawn to settle the soil and aid in the recovery process. You can also fertilize or overseed your lawn to give it a fresh boost.
\n\n\n\nLearn more about post-aeration lawn care in our guide on What to Do After Aerating Your Lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAerating your lawn once every 2 to 3 years should suffice for most lawns, mainly comprising sandy soil or soil that doesn’t easily compact. If your lawn has clay soil or is subjected to excessive foot traffic or compaction, you should aerate it once every year.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeeding your lawn after aeration can be highly beneficial. The newly formed holes provide an ideal environment for grass seeds to germinate. Spread the seeds evenly with a spreader, water frequently to keep the soil moist, and admire the lovely new growth!
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYes, it can! Aeration minimizes soil compaction and improves water drainage, which can help prevent fungal diseases and other pest infestations. To find out more about what aeration can do, see our article on the Benefits of Aerating Your Lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAerating your lawn is essential for its health and vitality. But the thought of when and how to aerate it and the hours spent toiling with the aerator feels daunting. If you’d rather not invest that time and effort, consider seeking the help of a professional lawn care service provider. By hiring a skilled lawn care pro, you can be sure the aeration is effective and your lawn receives the attention it needs for healthier and more beautiful growth.
\n\n\n\nFeatured Image by Juan Rodriguez
\n","title":"When and How to Aerate Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2,"src":"/static/b9db5211bd5ec9918127d06adb4d6fcc/f2cbb/Untitled-design-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b9db5211bd5ec9918127d06adb4d6fcc/107df/Untitled-design-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/b9db5211bd5ec9918127d06adb4d6fcc/293e9/Untitled-design-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/b9db5211bd5ec9918127d06adb4d6fcc/f2cbb/Untitled-design-1.jpg 800w","srcWebp":"/static/b9db5211bd5ec9918127d06adb4d6fcc/98a65/Untitled-design-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b9db5211bd5ec9918127d06adb4d6fcc/67b76/Untitled-design-1.webp 320w,\n/static/b9db5211bd5ec9918127d06adb4d6fcc/8df11/Untitled-design-1.webp 500w,\n/static/b9db5211bd5ec9918127d06adb4d6fcc/98a65/Untitled-design-1.webp 800w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"When and How to Aerate Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"If compacted soil is making your lawn thin, follow this guide to learn why, when, and how to aerate your lawn and fix compaction."}}},{"node":{"id":"c0f4a810-4ba4-50d7-9309-a941ec9f74aa","slug":"best-native-plants-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/best-native-plants-dallas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 20th, 2019","excerpt":"Dallas is home to over 350 parks and 160 miles of nature trails. Residents love the outdoors, stopping by famous food trucks at Klyde Warren Park after a relaxing afternoon strolling around Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or White Rock Lake. It is easy to invite some Texas nature into your landscape design by filling […]
\n","content":"\nDallas is home to over 350 parks and 160 miles of nature trails. Residents love the outdoors, stopping by famous food trucks at Klyde Warren Park after a relaxing afternoon strolling around Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or White Rock Lake. It is easy to invite some Texas nature into your landscape design by filling your yard with Dallas-native plants.
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer many landscaping benefits, including:
\n\n\n\nNative plants help promote a healthier Texas ecosystem. Check out these 11 native plants for Dallas to help you plan your new backyard oasis.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"Field](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bluebonnets.jpg\")
Bluebonnets
Photo Credit: Pexels
If you have ever driven down a Texas highway and seen families posing amongst wildflowers, chances are good it was a field of bluebonnets. Texas bluebonnet is a native Texas annual and the state flower of Texas. Violet-blue flowers protrude in densely packed clusters from a central spike with a white tip inviting beneficial pollinators like butterflies and moths to your garden.
\n\n\n\nBluebonnets thrive in the Texas spring, blooming from March to May. These pretty wildflowers make great additions to hanging baskets, planters, flower beds, and more. They prefer well-drained, loose soil and are a fan of full sun and minimal water.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 12-24 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers sloped, well-draining alkaline soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant, prefers to dry out between waterings
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals if ingested
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Prairie-Verbena.jpg\")
Prairie Verbena
Photo Credit: Anneli Salo / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
Prairie Verbena, or “Little Purple One,” is another highway beauty and Texas wildflower growing in grassy prairies. It is a short flower with a long blooming season from March to October. Purple flowers bloom in clusters of five amongst medium-green leaves.
\n\n\n\nPrairie verbenas work great in low-maintenance Dallas landscaping thanks to their low irrigation needs. The “Little Purple One” attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees and is deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1 foot
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Coral-Honeysuckle.jpg\")
Coral Honeysuckle
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
Often found climbing the woods and stream banks lining Dallas trails, coral honeysuckle is an evergreen clumping vine. In Texas landscaping, you can find it crawling across flower beds or along trellises, walls, and fences.
\n\n\n\nThe dark, shiny leaves give way to trumpet-shaped red-orange flower clusters from spring to fall, and the vine produces clusters of bright red berries from September to October. Coral honeysuckle attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators thanks to its vibrant flowers and fruit.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-18 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen to semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Needs about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall (may need weekly watering during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals if ingested
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cenizo.jpg\")
Cenizo
Photo Credit: micklpickl / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
Cenizo, or Texas sage, is a flowering shrub that loves dry conditions and is extremely heat-tolerant. It prefers full sun and comes in a variety of colors. The low-maintenance perennial does not respond well to pruning, making it a great low-maintenance option. Most Texas sage shrubs are gray-green with light purple flowers that bloom from spring to fall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained alkaline soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; low watering needs
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Scarlet-Sage.jpg\")
Scarlet Sage
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
Scarlet sage is another deer-resistant plant for your Dallas landscape. Hummingbirds and butterflies love the bright red tubular flowers set in whorls around a center stem. This herbaceous perennial blooms from July to October and most reseeds in frost-free areas. Interestingly, it is the only U.S. native sage with red flowers.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower subshrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual, sometimes perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained sandy soil or gravel
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; may need weekly watering during extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity if ingested, not considered poisonous to animals
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pavonia.jpg\")
Pavonia
Photo Credit: Pxhere
Pavonia, or rock rose, loves well-draining rocky soil but adapts well to Texas homes and landscapes. It is a versatile shrub with a long blooming period that grows well in full sun or partial shade.
\n\n\n\nThe low-maintenance shrub loves dry conditions, reducing irrigation needs. It has a woody base with light green heart-shaped leaves and small pink flowers resembling hibiscus blooms. Rock roses tolerate frequent pruning to promote fresh growth and attract pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1.5-4 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous to semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained sandy, loam, or limestone soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant with low watering requirements
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Turks-Cap.jpg\")
Turk’s Cap
Photo Credit: William Farr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
North Texas favorite, Turk’s cap, is a versatile flowering shrub found in many habitats. It tolerates a wide spectrum of sunlight availability, including full sun to full shade. The bright red flowers never fully open and resemble upside-down turbans.
\n\n\n\nHummingbirds love the flowers and mealy fruit produced by Turk’s cap, and the plants are crucial to their migration. The perennial blooms from mid-summer into fall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Small to medium shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide, can reach up to 9 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous, semi-evergreen, or evergreen depending on location
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to shade, prefers partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained, moist soil of sand, loam, clay, or limestone
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; requires weekly watering during extreme dry periods
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; fruit and flowers are edible and used for medicinal purposes throughout Mexico
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wine-Cup.jpg\")
Wine cup
Photo Credit: Wing-Chi Poon / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
Wine cup is a flowering vine used as ground cover in rock gardens and flower beds. The drought-tolerant perennial also grows well in containers and hanging baskets where it cascades over the edge. Wine cups require frequent pruning to promote growth.
\n\n\n\nIts unique blooms close each evening, and the dark purple, wine-colored flowers bloom from March to June. The flowering vine goes dormant during hot summers and needs well-drained soil. Wine cups attract butterflies and are the larval host plant for gray hairstreak butterflies in the Fort Worth area.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flowering vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8-12 inches tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers well-drained sandy or rocky soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; prefers regular moisture
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sedge.jpg\")
Cedar sedge
Photo Credit: konstantniks / Canva Pro / License
Cedar sedge is an ornamental grass found in many Texas landscapes. The clumping grass loves well-drained soil with partial shade. It tolerates light foot traffic and requires infrequent mowing. The perennial is often used as ornamental ground cover and accent plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: N/A
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant; low watering needs
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Golden-Groundsel.jpg\")
Golden Groundsel
Photo Credit: Doug McGrady / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Golden groundsel, commonly known as golden ragwort, is a crawling ground cover with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and heart-shaped foliage. The perennial blooms from April to June in North Texas and the semi-evergreen plant typically survives the winter.
\n\n\n\nGolden groundsel loves shade and is deer-resistant. Its golden blooms attract beneficial pollinators, supporting a diverse ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Ground cover
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall and 1 foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Low toxicity to humans or animals if touched or ingested
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mexican-Plum.jpg\")
Mexican Plum
Photo Credit: Charles Willgren / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Mexican Plum is a popular landscaping tree in Dallas. It is the first tree to bloom in March, signaling to all Texans spring has arrived. The small- to medium-sized tree has peeling, striated bark and clusters of fragrant white flowers. Purple fruit ripens in the fall and is enjoyed by humans and animals alike.
\n\n\n\nThe small fruit tree is drought-tolerant and a favorite amongst texas pollinators. The sprawling branches make the Mexican plum a magnificent shade tree to add to your landscape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: 15-30 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant with medium-low water requirements
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
All native plants have specific needs, and not all native plants will grow well in your yard. Be sure to select plants suitable for the soil, sun exposure, and watering capabilities of your landscape.
\n\n\n\nDallas-Fort Worth sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 8, indicating the coldest annual temperature is 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Texas native plants are cold-hardy to the minimum temperature in Dallas’ hardiness zone. Keep your zone in mind when selecting non-native plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nMost flowers and shrubs should be planted after the last frost in late March. Check your local weather forecast before introducing new plants to your yard.
Native plants support the Texas ecosystem. They support beneficial insects like butterflies, bees, and birds. They are drought tolerant and adapted to the clay soil found in most Texas yards, making them easier to grow and more beneficial to the local environment.
Early morning or evening are the best times to water your native plants. Winds are calmer and temperatures are lower, so there is less risk of water loss from evaporation or scorching from the sun. Additionally, foliage needs time to dry before nightfall. Wet foliage can lead to disease and rot.
Chances are good you already have native plants in your yard or around your neighborhood. If you want to introduce more plants into your Dallas landscape, be sure to source your plants ethically and never transplant them from the wild.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these local nurseries in the Dallas area recommended by the Native Plant Society of Texas:
\n\n\n\nFilling your yard with native plants is only one step in your landscaping design project. Be sure to consider other low-maintenance landscaping ideas to complement your new native plants and check out the best grass types for Dallas for a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nWhen you are ready to turn over the hard work and lawn upkeep to a professional, let wiikilawn connect you with a local landscaping pro in your area.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Pixabay
\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for Dallas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/1789c/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/107df/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 320w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/293e9/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 500w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/f2cbb/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 800w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/1789c/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 960w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/c26c2/Dallas-Native-Plants.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/1dd6e/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/67b76/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 320w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/8df11/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 500w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/98a65/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 800w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/1dd6e/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 960w,\n/static/c63b882a156e0a01ab17331e960ef77e/3cc96/Dallas-Native-Plants.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for Dallas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Check out these Texas native plants for Dallas to find heat-tolerant plants that thrive in the sun, plus information on where to buy native plants locally."}}},{"node":{"id":"c50bda81-b945-531e-b073-f439f50a5e26","slug":"watering-restrictions-baton-rouge-la","path":"/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/watering-restrictions-baton-rouge-la/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d1d6935d-c1c2-53e6-93e2-8203b0f7327d","name":"Baton Rouge","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"}],"date":"July 17th, 2019","excerpt":"While neighboring states wilt under high summer temps and crippling water restrictions, Baton Rouge has the pleasure of unfettered watering privileges. But just because you can use unlimited amounts of water, doesn’t mean you should. In fact, preserving this natural resource is a priority in our area, even if we aren’t seeing a shortage. Read […]
\n","content":"\nWhile neighboring states wilt under high summer temps and crippling water restrictions, Baton Rouge has the pleasure of unfettered watering privileges. But just because you can use unlimited amounts of water, doesn’t mean you should. In fact, preserving this natural resource is a priority in our area, even if we aren’t seeing a shortage. Read on to learn about water conservation in Baton Rouge.
\n\n\n\nUsing the right grass species can help reduce your watering needs. There are five types of grass considered appropriate in the Baton Rouge area. These are carpetgrass, Zoysiagrass, St. Augustinegrass, centipedegrass, and Bermudagrass.
\n\n\n\nEach of these has an optimal length they should be mowed at, to encourage healthy root development and efficient water use.
\n\n\n\nBermjda (common): 1¼ to 1½ inch
Zoysia: ¾ to 1 inch
St. Augustine: 3 to 4 inches
Centipede: 1 to 2 inches
Carpet: 1 ½ to 2 inches
Thanks to high levels of humidity and rainfall, it’s not necessary to water heavily in our area. Most lawns do well with a deep watering of an inch or so each week or so. It’s easy to tell when your lawn is thirsty. Footsteps will leave prints for several minutes after the grass has is walked on, and the individual blades will curl. Water when you see these signs to prevent any long-term damage and keep the lawn happy.
\n\n\n\nWatering in early morning is always the best policy. It allows the maximum amount of water to seep into the soil.
\n\n\n\nSince many of our household appliances are integrated, it makes sense for irrigation to join the trend. Water conservation is effortless if you use smart irrigation technology. There are a number of systems available with more coming online all the time.
\n\n\n\nSmart irrigation takes a traditional irrigation controller to the next level. Rather than operating solely on a timer, these systems also incorporate water-saving features. Sensors adjust the optimal run time on sprinklers based on current local weather conditions. That means there’s no need to turn the controller off after a hard rain or to adjust the timing on a watering session to compensate for a hot, dry week. This technology takes guesswork and manual resets out of watering and makes sure that your lawn receives the amount of water it needs when it needs it.
\n\n\n\nThe drive to conserve water is a community effort. Here in Baton Rouge, citizens recently had an opportunity to be a part of a citywide challenge to conserve water and enter to win some prizes from the Wyland Foundation. The challenge lasted through April and was spearheaded by Mayor Sharon Weston Broome. While the 2019 challenge has passed, keep an ear to the ground next spring, or check online to see if Baton Rouge joins in again.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Baton Rouge? Visit our Baton Rouge Lawn Care page.
\n\n\n\nFrank Naper is a nature enthusiast who loves to travel and explore new cities, taking nature photographs along the way.
Tallahassee is nestled in the Florida panhandle between Jacksonville and Pensacola, 22 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and its pristine sandy beaches. This cultural city recognizes the power and destruction of hurricanes, even without a front-seat ocean view. Hurricane-force winds impact cities as far as 150 miles inland, wreaking havoc on your Tally lawn. […]
\n","content":"\nTallahassee is nestled in the Florida panhandle between Jacksonville and Pensacola, 22 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and its pristine sandy beaches. This cultural city recognizes the power and destruction of hurricanes, even without a front-seat ocean view. Hurricane-force winds impact cities as far as 150 miles inland, wreaking havoc on your Tally lawn. Here are some hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas to help you prepare your outdoor space for hurricane season.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n8 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tallahassee
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Hurricane-Resistant Miami Landscaping
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Taxodium_Distichum_Bald_Cypress_28894599385.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Treeworld Wholesale / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nSustained winds of 90 mph or more will uproot large trees. Even 20 miles from the nearest coast, Tallahassee is no stranger to tropical storm winds during hurricane season. The city endured 12 hours of hurricane-force winds and gusts up to 71 miles per hour when Hurricane Michael ripped across the Gulf of Mexico in 2019.
\n\n\n\nWith 41% of all U.S. hurricanes making landfall in Florida, it is important to plant wind-resistant trees to protect your home and neighborhood from flying branches and falling trees.
\n\n\n\nWind-resistant Tallahassee tree species include:
\n\n\n\nTrees to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of wind-resistant trees:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The average cost of a hurricane-resistant tree varies depending on the size and type of tree, purchase location, and whether you are having a certified arborist handle your landscaping. If you head to your local nursery to purchase your tree, you can expect to spend between $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/tree-meadow-trunk-woodland-palm-trees-tree-trunks-1097898-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nStorm preparedness and emergency management are second nature to most residents of Leon County. Unfortunately, no matter how much you plan, you know there is no way to completely protect your home and yard from high winds and storm damage. Selecting wind-resistant trees and thoroughly planning your landscape design increases your plants’ survival chances during a storm surge.
\n\n\n\nSome things to consider as you plan your hurricane-resistant landscape include:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/40561099854_c6581da4db_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: gailhampshire / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nTally sits in the central portion of the Northern Florida panhandle. Native plants are the most salt and wind-tolerant plants you can include in your landscaping, and they are incredibly low-maintenance. Native plants promote a healthy ecosystem and thrive in Tallahassee’s subtropical climate. These plants are hands-off, resistant to local insects and diseases, and more likely to survive flooding from a hurricane churning in from the Gulf.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Tallahassee native plants to choose from. Take a look at some of the most wind-tolerant examples:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Native plant prices vary widely based on many factors, including type, size, and location. On average, you can expect to spend between $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $200 to $1,500 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Tree_Pruning.jpg\")
Photo Credit: TreeMinion15 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nTallahassee residents get to experience the enviable Florida weather and a short 30-minute drive to sugary white beaches. They also have the added advantage of being inland away from most storm surges during a hurricane, and hurricanes only directly impact Tally once every eight years on average.
\n\n\n\nStill, healthy trees are sturdy trees, and one of the best ways to maintain healthy trees is to perform routine maintenance, including pruning and trimming. Be sure to keep your hedges, shrubs, and trees pruned or trimmed to cut down on the number and size of branches flying across your yard during a tropical storm.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of landscape maintenance:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional tree trimming and landscape maintenance costs between $315 to $700, depending on the size of your yard and the number of trees and shrubs.
\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\nMulch is an inexpensive DIY job with enormous benefits for your Florida lawn. Mulch comes in many forms and colors. It is a loose material typically made of organic matter like compost, tree bark, and wood chips that helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protects your plants’ roots from heat.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch is the best option for your Tallahassee landscape. It adds beneficial nutrients to the sandy loam soil as it decomposes, but you will need to add a fresh layer annually. Organic mulch absorbs water, prevents puddling, decreases runoff, and assists in flood management.
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulches like gravel, river rock, and landscape glass are low-maintenance and durable, but the hard pieces ricochet off windows and siding during a hurricane.
\n\n\n\nBest mulch for your Tallahassee landscape:
\n\n\n\nMulch to avoid:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Lowes and Home Depot, wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag. If your landscaping project requires a lot of mulch, you can often purchase it in bulk to save money.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/JiminyPicketVinylFence.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Deniseesser / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nMany Tallahassee fence contractors specialize in wind-resistant fencing and reinforcement. Like trees, all fences are not created equal, especially for wind resistance. It is important to consider the best type of fencing for your landscape and note that wood fences are not the best choice for wind-resistant fencing. However, if the sustainability and natural beauty of wood are something you cannot live without, be sure to choose a slatted fence design to minimize wind resistance.
\n\n\n\nTake a look at some of the most wind-resistant fence types:
\n\n\n\nFence types to avoid:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional fence installation costs between $1,330 to $5,550, depending on size, materials, and location.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/bird-bath-gdd2579a6f_1280-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nThe average Florida homeowner spends 37.7 days mowing in their lifetime. That is a lot of time outdoors, which comes as no surprise considering the year-round warm weather. Statues, flower containers, bird baths, small fountains, and patio furniture are all great additions that add a personal touch and visual appeal to your Tallahassee landscape. Unfortunately, these objects are no match for hurricane-force winds. Be sure to remove all movable storm hazards to minimize damage.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: There is no cost to move your landscaping decorations or furniture indoors. However, if you are short on space and want to maximize your storm preparedness, you can rent a storage unit for around $125 per month.
\n\n\n\n![\"Water](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/pexels-ready-made-3964796-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nTallahassee receives 60 inches of rain per year, and Leon County’s unique topography, including streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands, is susceptible to overland flooding. Storm drains are an integral part of your overall landscape. Unfortunately, many homeowners often overlook these necessities because they offer little aesthetic value. Yard waste and organic debris clog your drains, leading to increased flooding and water damage. Be sure to keep paths to your drains clear by maintaining your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of proper drainage:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional French drain installation costs between $1,650 to $12,250, depending on location, size, and excavation needs.
\n\n\n\nThe best hurricane-resistant grasses for your Tallahassee landscape are bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass. Both types of grass tolerate submergence and are great warm-season grasses that also stand up well to heavy traffic.
Yes. Most artificial grass is wind-resistant and can withstand up to 50 inches of rain per hour. Most hurricanes generate precipitation at a rate of 6 inches per hour.
Mow regularly once the ground is completely dry. Aim to mow weekly to stimulate grass growth. Be sure to set your mower to the tallest setting to help your grass establish deep roots, making it more flood and drought resistant.
Check hurricane-resistant landscaping off of your storm preparedness list. While you focus on other areas of preparation, consider letting Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company that can handle your lawn care needs.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Tallahassee FL Park Ave / Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"8 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tallahassee, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/1789c/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/107df/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.jpg 320w,\n/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/293e9/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.jpg 500w,\n/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/f2cbb/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.jpg 800w,\n/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/1789c/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.jpg 960w,\n/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/c26c2/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/1dd6e/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/67b76/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.webp 320w,\n/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/8df11/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.webp 500w,\n/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/98a65/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.webp 800w,\n/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/1dd6e/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.webp 960w,\n/static/6f9299f08025ad8228fc92b30db13f5c/3cc96/1280px-Tallahassee_FL_Park_Ave_HD04.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tallahassee, FL | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Worry less about your storm preparedness with these hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas for Tallahassee, including the estimated cost of each."}}},{"node":{"id":"ce277458-60d9-5dd5-ba72-6766ed5befd0","slug":"best-grass-types-corpus-christi","path":"/lawn-care/tx/corpus-christi/best-grass-types-corpus-christi/","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":"bce60eef-f246-5798-b50e-2cd265e2d7a4","name":"Corpus Christi","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/corpus-christi/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"Corpus Christi’s average temperatures range from 50 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. This Southeast Texas beach town is the heart and soul of the Gulf Coast. Named the “Birdiest City in North America,” Corpus Christi has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters that cater to wildlife year-round. The best grass types for Corpus Christi thrive […]
\n","content":"\nCorpus Christi’s average temperatures range from 50 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. This Southeast Texas beach town is the heart and soul of the Gulf Coast. Named the “Birdiest City in North America,” Corpus Christi has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters that cater to wildlife year-round. The best grass types for Corpus Christi thrive in the city’s long, hot summers. If you are installing a new lawn or looking to freshen up your existing yard, consider one of these options for your Gulf Coast landscape.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTexas and heat go hand-in-hand, and this time we aren’t talking about barbecue. It’s no surprise that the ninth hottest city in Texas benefits from sun-loving native plants and warm-season grass cultivars that prefer growing temperatures between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses come from tropical regions, making them well-adapted to Corpus Christi’s humid climate. These turfgrasses soak up the sun and actively grow year-round in Southeast Texas, though growth slows during the milder winter months.
\n\n\n\nAll types of grass are classified into one of two categories:
\n\n\n\nThe following warm-season grass types are perfectly suited for the climatic and soil conditions of Corpus Christi:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bidgee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a common warm-season turfgrass that ranges from coarse to fine-textured and withstands salt, drought, and heavy traffic. It is the most popular Texas grass variety and a versatile option used for everything from athletic fields and golf courses to home lawns and parks. Cultivars recover quickly from damage, leading some to consider it an aggressive species.
\n\n\n\nCorpus Christi is home to common and hybrid bermudagrass varieties. Common bermudagrass has a light green color and coarse texture, while hybrid cultivars have a finer texture and dark green appearance. Hybrid varieties require more maintenance than common bermudagrass, but they are more dense forming a carpet-like layer.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Poor — needs full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease; prone to spring dead spot, dollar spot, leaf spot, large patch, and sheath spot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low resistance; prone to white grubs, hunting billbugs, mole crickets, armyworms, and sod webworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Bermuda spreads aggressively via its stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems) and can out-compete many weeds. The downside is that it also can be a nuisance and is sometimes considered invasive. You’ll often find it has tunneled underground into flower beds and spread into neighboring lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/St-Augustinegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is native to warm coastal regions. It is the most shade-tolerant warm-season cultivar. St. Augustinegrass has an attractive dense appearance and deep roots that make it moderately drought and salt-tolerant. Unfortunately, this turfgrass struggles during bouts of cold weather and does not tolerate heavy traffic or herbicides well.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is quick-growing and has an enviable blue-green color. The most popular cultivars in Texas are Raleigh, Palmetto, and Floratam. Both Raleigh and Palmetto have a high cold and frost resistance compared to other St. Augustine varieties. All cultivars are susceptible to disease and pests like chinch bugs.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate shade tolerance, among the highest of any warm-season grass; some cultivars are more shade tolerant than others
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5-4 inches (mow dwarf varieties from 2.5-3 inches; standard cultivars from 3-4 inches; mow tall in shade)
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to gray leaf spot, large patch, and take-all root rot
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: High; prone to chinch bugs, cutworms, mole crickets, grass loopers, armyworms, webworms, and grubs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; not a highly drought-tolerant grass; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Native to coastal areas across the world and prefers moist soils and mild winters; will thrive in more inland areas provided growing conditions are met; good salt tolerance; will go dormant during winter in all but the southernmost regions
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nTexas is home to around 11 cultivars of Zoysiagrass. These grasses tolerate low mow heights, drought, cold, shade, and heavy traffic, and have low fertilization requirements. New cultivars have increased disease and pest resistance. Zoysiagrass grows densely, blocking out weed growth thanks to thick stiff leaf blades.
\n\n\n\nSimilar to St. Augustinegrass’ carpet-like appearance, Zoysiagrass is recognizable for its dense appearance and dark green color. Fortunately, cultivars are not prone to disease or insect infestations and grow slowly.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate shade
\n\n\n\nDrought resistance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; large patch, root decline, spring dead spot, rust, curvularia, and lead 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\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is another slow-growing cultivar with a tight growing pattern and fine leaf blades. The low-maintenance turfgrass is prone to disease and pests when improperly maintained and over watered. It is a smooth, flat-bladed grass that likes to be left alone.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass has a pronounced light green color and a medium texture. Cultivars require little mowing, fertilization, or water to remain green. This turfgrass handles shade but prefers full sun like most warm-season grass varieties.
\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](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/buffalograss.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nNative plants are always a desirable choice for any landscape. Buffalograss is a Texas native turfgrass that loves the sun. The warm-season grass is drought and cold-tolerant and requires little fertilization and less mowing than most varieties.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss loves long hot summers and its gray-green blades are pest and disease resistant. Unfortunately, the low-fuss cultivar does not stand up to heavy traffic, shade, or weeds.
\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: Low; bipolaris leaf spot may occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mealybugs, buffalograss webworms, mites, short-tailed crickets, and chinch bugs
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native soils, not sandy soils
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Seashore-Paspalum-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nSeashore paspalum is similar to bermudagrass but has quicker root development. This warm-season cultivar is extremely salt-tolerant and grows in all types of soil. Like bermudagrass, it has an aggressive growth habit and coarse blades with a dense root system.
\n\n\n\nSeashore paspalum is light to medium green in color and requires frequent mowing to maintain a low height. This popular coastal turfgrass tolerates hot temperatures, drought, shade, and heavy traffic. It has the lowest nitrogen requirements of any warm-season turfgrass. Unfortunately, seashore paspalum cultivars are more expensive than other varieties.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\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; moderate water and fertilization needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1-2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low; fusarium blight and Helminthosporium disease may occur
\n\n\n\nPotential for pests: Low; most common pests are mole crickets, sod webworms, spittlebugs, white grubs, billbugs, cutworms, and fall armyworms
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 4.5-9.0
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adaptable; does not prefer a specific soil type
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Sensitive to dull mower blades and prone to injury from tearing
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses grow best when the Texas temperatures hit 80 degrees Fahrenheit, usually toward the beginning of May. The growing season typically slows when temperatures dip below 80 degrees Fahrenheit around the end of October.
Texas turfgrasses typically go dormant when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit around mid-November, though this does not always occur in Corpus Christi.
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 and seashore paspalum are the most shade-friendly grass types for Corpus Christi.
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 and seashore paspalum are your best options. These varieties grow densely, withstand heavy traffic, and recover quickly when man’s best friend has the urge to dig.
All Texas grass cultivars have different characteristics and needs. Choose a variety that works well for your lifestyle and your yard’s microclimate. Warm-season varieties are the best option for your Corpus Christi lawn. They are suited to Southeast Texas’ unique USDA Zones, 9a, 9b, and 10a.
\n\n\n\nCorpus Christi’s year-round warm weather lends itself to numerous landscaping options. Beat the heat with our list of low-maintenance landscaping ideas or batten down the hatches and gear up for the Gulf’s hurricane season with hurricane-resistant landscaping options.
A lush backyard oasis is within reach. Contact a Corpus Christi lawn care pro today to keep your lawn and landscaping healthy.
Main Image Credit: Wozzy25 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"6 Best Grass Types for Corpus Christi, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/1789c/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/107df/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/293e9/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/f2cbb/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/1789c/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/c26c2/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/1dd6e/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/67b76/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.webp 320w,\n/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/8df11/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.webp 500w,\n/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/98a65/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.webp 800w,\n/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/1dd6e/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.webp 960w,\n/static/64460550a989fd4f60e3071cf82f78e8/3cc96/lawn-in-Corpus-Christi-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Best Grass Types for Corpus Christi, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Warm-season, salt-tolerant grasses are the best choice for Corpus Christi, and these six species are great options."}}},{"node":{"id":"5494332a-a31c-59aa-9d34-d35dfe60c25b","slug":"best-grass-types-oklahoma-city","path":"/lawn-care/ok/oklahoma-city/best-grass-types-oklahoma-city/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Janae Soules is a freelance writer with a newly discovered love of gardening with her kids. She enjoys spending time in nature hiking, biking, or playing sports.","name":"Janae Soules","id":"0def06f9-a4f4-58d5-891d-d423dde342f4","path":"/author/janae-souleslawnstarter-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/aab1931e793481d75c080c7271be7652?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"d2d6ff96-cc14-5d0f-bbfe-f7eac3bba6d9","name":"Oklahoma","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ok/"},{"id":"89161243-3980-5fa1-a6f5-daf0cebe4f02","name":"Oklahoma City","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ok/oklahoma-city/"}],"date":"March 24th, 2023","excerpt":"If you like to host BBQs for all the Sooners games, your grass needs to withstand the viewing party’s emotional roller coaster as you watch the score. Your turf also needs to handle OKC’s roller coaster weather. To get your yard ready for the games (and the changing seasons), we’ve compiled a list of the […]
\n","content":"\nIf you like to host BBQs for all the Sooners games, your grass needs to withstand the viewing party’s emotional roller coaster as you watch the score. Your turf also needs to handle OKC’s roller coaster weather. To get your yard ready for the games (and the changing seasons), we’ve compiled a list of the 7 best grass types for your Oklahoma City lawn.
\n\n\n\nOklahoma City is in the transition zone, which means your yard can grow either warm or cool-season grasses. This list includes 4 warm-season grasses: bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, buffalograss, and St. Augustinegrass. The 3 best cool-season grasses for OKC include tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nEach home has different lawn needs and uses, so you’ll have to evaluate different things, such as foot traffic, amount of shade, and how much maintenance you want to perform on your lawn. Let’s take a closer look at each grass type.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll talk about:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grass goes dormant in the winter if the outside temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit or the soil temperature drops below 55 degrees. When temperatures warm up through spring, summer, and early autumn, expect your warm-season grass to thrive.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grass needs additional water in summer as it endures dormancy. Cool-season grasses green up in early spring, enter dormancy in summer, return to green in autumn, and enter winter dormancy when the soil temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nOKC sits in the transition zone for grass growing, which means your lawn can grow either warm-season or cool-season grasses. Northern states typically grow cool-season lawns that prefer long winters and mild summers, while southern states grow warm-season grasses that thrive throughout the warm summers and mild winters.
\n\n\n\nSince Oklahoma is sandwiched in the middle (aka the transition zone) it experiences both extreme summers and winters. The question is, what time of year do you want your lawn to be its greenest? The following 4 warm-season grasses will grow best in summer, while the 3 remaining cool-season grasses will grow best in spring and autumn.
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThanks to its high foot traffic tolerance, kids and pets can run freely on bermudagrass for hours on end. It recovers quickly from damage, which is why you’ll often see bermudagrass on sports fields.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass checks many boxes: high drought tolerance, high foot traffic tolerance, high salt tolerance, and high heat tolerance.
\n\n\n\nBut those upsides come with some downsides. Bermudagrass is high-maintenance and has low shade tolerance. So if your lawn receives shade, bermudagrass might struggle. If you’re looking for low-maintenance grass, bermudagrass might not be the optimal choice either. It grows fast, develops thatch, and can be invasive, so it requires lots of care and attention. Left unchecked, it can invade your flower beds.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low – thrives in full sun.
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Fertilize once a year according to soil test results. Susceptible to thatch build-up – dethatch when thatch layer is more than ½ inch.
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Good tolerance to salt
\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 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWeeds are not generally a problem with Zoysiagrass, thanks to its dense growing habit. However, its thick growth makes the turf more susceptible to pet urine damage than other grass types. Why? Because the urine won’t drain well. Bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass aren’t nearly as thick as Zoysiagrass, allowing the pet urine to drain through easier, leading to less damage.
\n\n\n\nIf we compare Zoysiagrass to bermudagrass, you’ll notice that both grass types have a high foot traffic tolerance. However, some homeowners might prefer bermudagrass over Zoysiagrass because bermudagrass recovers faster. On the other hand, Zoysiagrass is more shade tolerant than bermudagrass, so you’ll need to consider which strength takes priority.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a drought-tolerant and salt-tolerant grass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: High but recovers slowly from damage.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: Set mowing height between 1 to 2 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 the grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is a warm-season, low-maintenance, blue-green grass. Once it’s established, you won’t have to frequently mow, fertilize, or water your buffalograss lawn. Lawn diseases and insects aren’t generally a problem in buffalograss, which means less work on your end. However, buffalograss’ open growth habit can make weeds a never-ending battle.
\n\n\n\nAlthough buffalograss is soft to walk on barefoot, don’t let the foot traffic get too high on it – Buffalograss has a low foot traffic tolerance. It might not recover well after your Sooners-themed BBQ.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs. Develops thatch and requires weed control.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 2 and 3 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native clay soils, not sandy soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Overwatering could cause invasive weeds
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bubble-on-St.-Augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is a rich green-colored, high-maintenance, warm-season grass. Homeowners will have to perform many maintenance tasks during the active growing season. These tasks include fertilizing regularly, dethatching, aerating, and inspecting for lawn diseases and pests.
\n\n\n\nUnlike bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass can tolerate shade. It’s the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass, which makes it an excellent choice if your lawn receives shade.
\n\n\n\nIf your family spends time in your saltwater pool for exercise instead of running around on the grass, St. Augustinegrass may be a good fit–– it has a low foot traffic tolerance but can tolerate salt.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate. It is the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 3.5 and 4 inches.
\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; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Vulnerable to lawn pests such as chinch bugs, white grubs, and mole crickets.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a great transition zone grass because its deep roots help with drought tolerance (it will need water during the summer with periods of little rainfall, though). Among other cool-season grasses, tall fescue has the highest heat tolerance. It’s also low maintenance and doesn’t need regular fertilization compared to other cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nHowever, OKC’s humidity could increase the possibility of lawn pests with tall fescue. If pests damage your tall fescue lawn, you’ll need to overseed it because this turf doesn’t repair itself well.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Aerate in the fall if your soil gets compacted
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pilot138-17 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a high-maintenance cool-season grass that needs full sun. It’s considered high-maintenance because it needs to be mowed, fertilized frequently, dethatched every one to two years, and monitored for lawn diseases.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is soft to walk on and has a deep green color. If it gets damaged from your cornhole boards always being in the same spot, rest assured the rhizomes in Kentucky bluegrass will self-repair (unlike tall 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: Produces a dense lawn under ideal conditions; many of these traits (shade tolerance, drought resistance, etc.) vary widely by cultivar, with newer cultivars generally being hardier, more resistant to disease, etc.; mow taller in summer; most often mixed with other species in home lawns, such as tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a cool-season, fast germinating, medium to dark green-colored grass. It is most often used in The Big Friendly to overseed warm-season lawns, such as bermudagrass. Overseeding warm-season lawns with cool-season grass can extend the lawn’s green period in winter.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass cultivars such as Diplomat, Citation, Palmer, Prelude, Ranger, and Repell perform well in Oklahoma City conditions.
\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: Develops less thatch than other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to plant grass seed in Oklahoma City depends on if you choose warm-season or cool-season grass. Warm-season grasses should be planted between late spring and early summer. Cool-season grasses should be planted between late August to early October.
If you want to avoid pulling weeds and spraying herbicides, consider Zoysiagrass. Its thick growth habit helps choke out weeds.
St. Augustinegrass is the best warm-season grass type for a shaded lawn. For cool-season grass, tall fescue is the best choice from this list.
You’ve decided on the grass type that best fits the yard’s foot traffic, shaded and sunny areas, and your maintenance needs (how much do you want to be sweating doing maintenance in the hot summer sun?). But a nice lawn is only one aspect of your OKC landscape – remember to adorn the lawn with OKC’s best native plants, too.
\n\n\n\nWant more time to visit the Oklahoma City Zoo instead of maintaining the lawn? Contact an Oklahoma City lawn care professional to help take over your lawn mowing, edging, and trimming.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: MARELBU / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"7 Best Grass Types for Oklahoma City","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.430274135876043,"src":"/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/1789c/Oklahoma-City.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/107df/Oklahoma-City.jpg 320w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/293e9/Oklahoma-City.jpg 500w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/f2cbb/Oklahoma-City.jpg 800w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/1789c/Oklahoma-City.jpg 960w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/c26c2/Oklahoma-City.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/1dd6e/Oklahoma-City.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/67b76/Oklahoma-City.webp 320w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/8df11/Oklahoma-City.webp 500w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/98a65/Oklahoma-City.webp 800w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/1dd6e/Oklahoma-City.webp 960w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/3cc96/Oklahoma-City.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Best Grass Types for Oklahoma City","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Looking to start a new lawn or refresh one? This article will discuss both warm- and cool-season grass types for Oklahoma City lawns."}}},{"node":{"id":"52d754bf-9873-5b80-8542-ab4a5534e07c","slug":"how-to-stripe-a-lawn-in-6-steps","path":"/lawn-care/how-to-stripe-a-lawn-in-6-steps/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"bf4daca3-f477-56c4-b0f9-b212905a3b28","name":"Tools, Apps & Accessories","count":6,"path":"/category/garden-accessories/"}],"date":"September 25th, 2019","excerpt":"Whether it’s a sports field or your neighbor’s big-league landscaping that’s giving you lawn envy, a technique called lawn striping will give your yard that manicured look. But it’s not quite as easy as just mowing in a straight line or in different directions. Depending on what kind of grass you have, the time of […]
\n","content":"\nWhether it’s a sports field or your neighbor’s big-league landscaping that’s giving you lawn envy, a technique called lawn striping will give your yard that manicured look. But it’s not quite as easy as just mowing in a straight line or in different directions.
\n\n\n\nDepending on what kind of grass you have, the time of year, or even what type of lawn mower you use, there are some rules to striping.
\n\n\n\nHere’s how to stripe a lawn, whether it’s a basic stripe or a fancier design you want.
\n\n\n\nYou create stripes in your lawn by bending the grass blades in opposite directions as you mow. Light reflects differently on grass bent in one direction than in the other.
\n\n\n\nKeep that basic principle in mind. Everything else you do, from choosing grass variety to mowing equipment, will be done to increase the amount of bend and cause it to hold longer.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/0WDvQVzc-eZdva5viU3viFhQsKHDIU9-bI-I8Zr1T8efFBRVfZOXoORAcY2HCtp8fPu2Vf55jbYzdfuktSf5XIZFklvT_tuFsgXCW_PZJ493u_s35DFks7XhnNvDoPBtQLNN7Dwa\")
You don’t have to go out and buy an expensive new lawn mower, but you do need to know what you’re up against. Major League Baseball field crews don’t use typical household mowers. MLB literally wrote the book on lawn striping, and according to the official manual, rotary push lawnmowers only work on residential lawns. At the pro baseball field, it’s most likely a reel mower. “Reel mowers are more specialized and are used on higher maintenance facilities like golf courses and athletic fields. These mowers require additional training to operate. Reel mowers are used to provide better quality cuts and allows very low cutting heights,” the manual says.
\n\n\n\nWhile you don’t need to run out and buy a reel mower, you will need a lawn roller. A striping kit and sharp mower blades will also put you in the ballpark with the big league lawn stripers. These kits come complete with mounting hardware.
\n\n\n\nNot all grass is created equal when it comes to striping, and your technique must vary with the seasons. The grasses that take to striping the best are cool-season varieties such as fine fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. They have long, flexible blades that easily bend in the direction of the lawn roller. Warm-season grasses such as St. Augustine have more rigid blades that spring back from the lawn roller. If your lawn consists of the stiffer warm-season kind, it’s more likely to bed and lie flat in the spring and fall, when the temperatures are a little lower. In the peak of the summer heat, those grass blades are less likely to lay how you want them. Keep in mind that cool-season grasses thrive best in spring and early fall. You’re also likely to get the best results from those varieties when the temperatures aren’t soaring into their July and August peaks.
\n\n\n\nMowing height is another major factor in lawn striping. Experts say never mow your lawn too closely, or you risk the health of the grass. Grass that has been scalped also tends to be less green. If you want to stripe your lawn, you have another reason to let it grow a little longer. The longer the blades of grass, the more distinct your stripes will be. That’s because there is more grass blade to lay in one direction and reflect light. Generally, you should keep your lawn between 2.5 to 4 inches long if you want that fancy design.
\n\n\n\nThere’s even more you can do with your grass if you have the inclination. Lawn stripe patterns are limited only by your imagination, the size and shape of your lawn and your lawn mower. Consider waves, circles, even an argyle-like pattern. For inspiration (we’ll call it “lawnspiration”), there are photos and videos online for the aspiring sports turf groundskeeper to check out.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: AdamKR, CC2.0
Perennials are a great way to add a yearly burst of color to any landscape, and in our temperate climate, there are many great ones to choose from. These 12 great perennials for your Indiana landscape are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive here without a bunch of maintenance. In this article: 1. Black-Eyed […]
\n","content":"\nPerennials are a great way to add a yearly burst of color to any landscape, and in our temperate climate, there are many great ones to choose from. These 12 great perennials for your Indiana landscape are both beautiful and hardy enough to thrive here without a bunch of maintenance.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bernard Spragg / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan, also called yellow coneflower, is a striking flower because of the contrast between the dark button center and the brilliant yellow petals. For this reason, it’s popular in virtually every transition zone in the country. The Black-eyed Susan takes its time blooming, but once it does, it blooms for months. It looks stunning either on its own or combined with its purple counterpart. A bonus: bees, butterflies, and songbirds adore it.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is easy to care for, adapts to a wide variety of conditions and stands up well to heat, drought, and cold. In short, it’s beautiful and tough.
\n\n\n\n![\"Gaint](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Giant-Sunflower-Helianthus-Giganteus-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe deSousa / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, the giant sunflower is a real showstopper that grows up to 12 feet. This plant is easy to take care of and tolerates dry weather. Additionally, it’s a magnet for bees and a host for various butterfly species. Plus, its seeds are a common snack for birds.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be careful, because the giant sunflower is severely toxic to pets and various animals. It has some toxic effects on humans, too, if ingested.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Shasta-Daisy-Leucanthemum-×-Superbum.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Carl Lewis / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe Shasta daisy is a lovely white daisy with a yellow center that blooms from mid-summer to early fall and goes dormant thereafter. It blooms better in full sun but can also withstand partial shade, and it needs about an inch of water per week.
\n\n\n\nAs far as its effect on wildlife, butterflies love the Shasta daisy, and deer do not. In fact, deer may be repelled by it.
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loam, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans, toxic to pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wood-Lily-Lilium-Philadelphicum-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe wood lily sits on a 1 to 4-foot stalk and is topped by skyward-facing cup-shaped, reddish-orange flowers. There are usually one to four flowers per plant.
\n\n\n\nThe showy blossoms make it a stunning addition to any landscape. The wood lily is great for attracting wildlife like hummingbirds, butterflies, and even rabbits.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Butterfly-Milkweed-Symphyotrichum-Novae-Angliae-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nWhat makes butterfly milkweed striking is its clusters of bright flowers atop its short stalk. It grows wild in the prairies and grasslands of the Midwest and Great Plains. Its hardy, tough nature means that it can survive in an array of climates and conditions, which is why it can be found from the New England states to the Southeast and even the desert of the Southwest U.S.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/New-England-Aster-Symphyotrichum-Novae-Angliae-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe charming New England aster produces delicate, purple petals that add color and texture to any landscape. This plant also feeds wildlife like bees and butterflies, and it’s a great cut flower for arrangements. If you’re in the market for low-maintenance plant options, New England aster is great because it doesn’t need much water.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-Coneflower-Echinacea-purpurea-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhere the wood lily forms a skyward-soaring cup, the purple coneflower has an odd downward-facing cone that gives it the appearance of a brightly colored badminton shuttlecock or birdie. Its pink-purple flowers are not only stunning to look at, but they attract wildlife such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and songbirds.
\n\n\n\nThe only ding against the purple coneflower is that it is susceptible to diseases, so it’s not as carefree and easy as some other plants on this list..
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter O’Connor / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nYarrow blooms from late spring to mid-fall, producing clusters of small, white, feathery flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It will flower even longer if you deadhead faded flowers.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also a double threat in your garden: Not only is it pretty, but it’s a highly aromatic plant that gives your garden an amazing fragrance.
\n\n\n\nYarrow requires frequent watering initially, but once established, it can survive with half an inch of watering a week. This plant isn’t bullet-proof, though. Yarrow is susceptible to botrytis mold and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and just as wide
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Sandy, clay, loam, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans, toxic to pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cardinal-Flower-Lobelia-cardinalis-3.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: ALAN SCHMIERER / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nThe cardinal flower is named for the bright red robes worn by Roman Catholic cardinals, so it’s no coincidence that the most striking feature of this plant is its vibrant red petals. Found throughout the United States and as far north as Canada and all the way down to Mexico, it loves moist soils, including wet woodlands, streambanks, swamps and marshy areas. This makes it perfect for a rain garden.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it needs frequent watering, cardinal flower is otherwise easy to care for. Plus, butterflies like to snack on the flower’s nectar.
\n\n\n\n![\"Different](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-Phlox-Phlox-Paniculata-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bff / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nGarden phlox is a moderately tall perennial that grows wild in forests, woodlands, prairies, and other natural habitats. It sprouts pink, purple, or white clusters atop 3 to 4-foot stems and makes any landscape a head-turner.
\n\n\n\nThe only downside to garden phlox is that it is vulnerable to insect damage and diseases, including powdery mildew, so it needs some attention.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Lance-Leaved-Coreopsis-Coreopsis-Lanceolata-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William L. Farr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nLance-leaved coreopsis, also called tickseed, is a low-maintenance plant that bathes your yard in hues of brilliant yellow. It grows up to three feet tall, and its large flowers can reach 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
\n\n\n\nLike many of the other plants on this list, lance-leaved coreopsis is tough. It does fine in dry, hot, and humid weather. The plant itself is a perennial that stays green for a long time, although the flowers have a relatively short duration.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Wild-Bergamot-Monarda-Fistulosa-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nIf you like showy, fragrant flowers, you’re in for a treat. Wild bergamot is an atypical pink, purple, or white perennial in the bee balm family that smells like a mix of mint and oregano. Because it’s a wildflower, wild bergamot doesn’t take too much care for it to grow well in your yard. Moreover, it attracts various bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nWhile annual plants live for one season, perennial plants grow year after year. However, annuals are known for their vibrant colors, and some of them self-seed.
It’s best to plant perennials in fall or spring, but you can plant them at any time of the year before the ground freezes.
Perennials are popular additions to most gardens because they have the dual benefit of being beautiful and, well, perennial; they return year after year. Most of them are pretty hardy as well. They thrive in a variety of pretty tough conditions and climates, so they certainly do well in the temperate climate of Indiana.
\n\n\n\nBut choosing the right plants is only the first step to creating a beautiful yard. You also need to care for it. If you’d like some help, Wikilawn’s lawn care pros are available to do the dirty work for you. Get a quote here.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo By: PixaBay
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