![\"yellow](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/777px-Miami_Beach_-_South_Beach_Sand_Dune_Flora_-_Helianthus_debilis_Dune_Sunflower_29.jpg\")
Weeds, Disease and Drought are the common lawn killers in San Antonio. In this piece we’ll cover how to deal with each. Common Weeds in San Antonio Weeds in San Antonio, Texas can be divided into two categories, grassy and broadleaf. Broadleaf weeds include Henbit, Dandelion, Thistle, Chickweed, and Purslane. If your lawn is too […]
\n","content":"\nWeeds, Disease and Drought are the common lawn killers in San Antonio. In this piece we’ll cover how to deal with each.
\n\n\n\nWeeds in San Antonio, Texas can be divided into two categories, grassy and broadleaf. Broadleaf weeds include Henbit, Dandelion, Thistle, Chickweed, and Purslane. If your lawn is too fraught with these, it’s recommended you contact a lawn service professional for assistance.
\n\n\n\nHenbit can be identified by the purple at the top of the plant, and Dandelion by its bright yellow flower. Thistle is a prickly bush that can grow several feet tall, and chickweed has white, star-shaped flowers all over it. Purslane has flat, paddle-shaped leaves, and can bloom year round in your lawn.
\n\n\n\nGrassy weeds look more like regular grass but can be just as harmful to your lawn. These include Rescue grass, Bluegrass, Crabgrass, and Dallisgrass. Rescuegrass is most common in Central Texas and features leaves which are hairy, flat, and spiky. It typically blooms in winter.
\n\n\n\nBluegrass is one of the most common weeds in the San Antonio area, and usually shows up early spring or late winter. It grows in bunches, giving your lawn an uneven look and yellow color. Crabgrass is the most widely hated weed in America, because it grows primarily during spring and summer, and can stay dormant for ages. It’s resistant to drought and quickly dominates a lawn once it germinates.
\n\n\n\nDallisgrass grows in large clusters so big that the middle sometimes dies while the outer edges of the clump will continue spreading and dominating your lawn. It tends to grow in clay or sandy soils, and it loves nitrogen fertilizer. It also grows twice as fast as normal turf grasses.
\n\n\n\nLawn diseases can afflict any lawn in San Antonio. It’s important to recognize them early on, so they’re dealt with quickly. If any of these diseases are too prevalent on your lawn, you should call a San Antonio lawn service professional to help you.
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the more common weeds we see around the Alamo City.
\n\n\n\nThis disease makes red or pink threads extend from your grass and can be easily identified by its color.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll know this lawn disease by the silver dollar sized patches of tan grass that will appear all around your lawn. Left untreated they can rot your whole lawn.
\n\n\n\nNamed for its look, this disease actually starts out causing purple-green patches with a dark ring around them throughout your lawn. Once it progresses, it kills your grass completely leaving dead, brown spots all around your yard.
\n\n\n\nThis disease starts out as small, crescent-shaped clusters of brown and yellow that will quickly rot your grass down to the soil if left untreated.
\n\n\n\nDrought is the third lawn killer in San Antonio. Proper watering will solve this. Additionally, proper watering will help with the first two lawn threats.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll obviously want to keep your lawn well-watered in San Antonio, but be careful not to overdo it. Current watering restrictions in San Antonio state that you are only allowed to water your lawn with a sprinkler or irrigation system once per week, before 11 am or after 7 pm.
\n\n\n\nThese regulations are subject to change so be sure to stay up-to-date on them. In times of less or no restriction, you’ll want to water at least 3 or 4 times per week, especially during the growing season. Wintertime requires less water for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nWatering in San Antonio, Texas is best done during the late evening or the early morning when temperatures are cooler. This helps the soil retain more water.
\n","title":"Common Weeds and Lawn Diseases in San Antonio, TX","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4442877291960508,"src":"/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/1789c/weeds-1024x709.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/107df/weeds-1024x709.jpg 320w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/293e9/weeds-1024x709.jpg 500w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/f2cbb/weeds-1024x709.jpg 800w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/1789c/weeds-1024x709.jpg 960w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/a2a79/weeds-1024x709.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/1dd6e/weeds-1024x709.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/67b76/weeds-1024x709.webp 320w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/8df11/weeds-1024x709.webp 500w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/98a65/weeds-1024x709.webp 800w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/1dd6e/weeds-1024x709.webp 960w,\n/static/4e56a677722b338b1b9adad5445ade83/7aa54/weeds-1024x709.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Common Weeds and Lawn Diseases in San Antonio, TX | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"0147d12a-bf6b-528f-9ac4-5f6236453db2","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-jacksonville","path":"/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-jacksonville/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"075cc120-3dd3-51e4-aead-643f50a8453e","name":"Jacksonville","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/jacksonville/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Tropical weather isn’t all beautiful. Sunny weather may be followed by a tropical storm or a hurricane. While there’s only so much you can do to protect your home, hurricane-resistant landscaping can minimize damage and make cleanup easier. Here are 12 ideas to implement in your yard to help your landscaping weather the storm. In […]
\n","content":"\nTropical weather isn’t all beautiful. Sunny weather may be followed by a tropical storm or a hurricane. While there’s only so much you can do to protect your home, hurricane-resistant landscaping can minimize damage and make cleanup easier. Here are 12 ideas to implement in your yard to help your landscaping weather the storm.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping ideas for Jacksonville
\n\n\n\nHurricane season lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30, and during the hurricane season, Floridians don’t want to be caught off-guard. With winds reaching speeds over 157 mph, hurricanes cause a lot of wind damage and often lead to flooding.
\n\n\n\nFor hurricane preparedness, here are some tips to keep your yard safer so you can be ready for the next time a tropical storm strikes Jacksonville.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Daniel Di Palma / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSeeing all your hard work go down the drain is heartbreaking if you’re a plant lover. The additional salt water from tropical storms can cause plants to wilt, halt growth, or die. Some plants are susceptible to salinity, but others are more salt tolerant and better adapted to coastal areas.
\n\n\n\nNative plants are more likely to survive local weather and are lower maintenance. However, other plants may be able to brave the storm, as well. Here are some salt-tolerant plant recommendations from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS):
\n\n\n\nGroundcovers and flowers:
\n\n\n\nGrasses:
\n\n\n\nVines:
\n\n\n\nTrees and shrubs:
\n\n\n\nWhat about your lawn? St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass are good turfgrass choices for Jacksonville and can handle more salt than other grass types.
\n\n\n\nCost: Planting a tree costs homeowners between $90 and $3,212. Flower bed planting costs between $861 and $3,100. You can save money by planting them yourself, but research the plant thoroughly before planting, so you set it up for success.
\n\n\n\nTrees are a significant hazard during hurricanes. They could fall on your home, fence, or car, causing costly damage. While no tree is entirely immune to high winds, research from the University of Florida has shown these trees to be most wind-resistant:
\n\n\n\nWant to know which trees have poor wind resistance? Avoid these species:
\n\n\n\nCost: Planting a tree costs homeowners between $90 and $3,212.
\n\n\n\nIs your tree at risk of falling? Besides species, tree health is another factor determining which trees survive hurricanes. Sick, diseased, damaged, rotting, and pest-infested trees aren’t in peak condition to face stormy weather. Look for any changes in your tree’s health, and call a certified arborist to assess whether the tree needs to be treated or removed.
\n\n\n\nEven if your trees are healthy, pruning and reshaping will improve their wind resistance. Train your young trees to have one dominant trunk and well-spaced branches. To prepare for a hurricane, contact an arborist to prune any trees over 15 feet tall and remove branches that could pose a danger to your property.
\n\n\n\nCost: Tree trimming costs between $227 and $708. Want to trim your hedges and bushes as well? Expect to pay between $56 and $85 per hour for hedge trimming and $7 to $24 per bush or $45 to $75 per hour. You can trim small plants yourself, but leave large trees to the pros.
\n\n\n\nArborists may offer advice on tree trimming or removal for free but charge $40 to $550 for in-depth consultations or services performed.
\n\n\n\n![\"Power](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Power-Line.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matthew Paul Argall / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nTrees are much more dangerous near power lines and your house. They could smash through your roof or take out your power. Don’t plant trees or other tall plants too close to your home or power lines, and move or cut down existing trees that pose a danger.
\n\n\n\nCost: Tree transplants cost between $229 and $5,440. Tree removal costs between $323 and $2,089.
\n\n\n\nHardy plants are an excellent first step, but you should also provide extra protection before the storm hits. Wrap trees and large plants with burlap and small plants with a floating row cover. Make sure to secure them to the ground with garden stakes. While these covers may fail in severe hurricanes, they’ll likely reduce some damage in your yard.
\n\n\n\nCost: Depending on the size, burlap costs between $7 and $180 per roll. Floating row covers cost $11 to $240 per cover, with agricultural covers costing even more.
\n\n\n\nMulch controls weeds in your garden, but hurricanes scatter pieces all over your yard. Avoid hard mulch types like gravel. Strong winds can send them flying through the air and possibly through your windows. Here are some soft mulch types that will cause less damage and be easier to clean up:
\n\n\n\nCost: Mulch costs between $45 to $100 per cubic yard, depending on the type. You also can make mulch for free from grass clippings, pine needles, or newspaper.
\n\n\n\nFlooding is a significant source of damage during hurricane season. A seawall is the first line of defense against rising water levels, redirecting floodwaters away from your property. They are beneficial for properties next to the ocean or rivers. Choose from materials like concrete, wood, steel, and vinyl.
\n\n\n\nCost: Seawall construction costs between $215 and $843 per square foot, depending on the material.
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chain-link-fence.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nIf those winds are strong enough to knock down trees, they can destroy most fences. Privacy fences often fall because their large surface area takes the brunt of the wind and floodwaters. Concrete and brick fencing may hold up better, but other materials will be more likely to survive if they have gaps to let the elements through. Consider picket, shadowbox, lattice, or louvered designs.
\n\n\n\nChain-link and metal fences are your best bet if you want to see your fence still standing after the storm. They might be dented by flying objects, but that repair will be easier than a splintered wooden fence.
\n\n\n\nCost: Metal fences cost between $21 and $57 per linear foot, depending on the type of metal. Chain-link fences, also known as cyclone or hurricane fences, cost between $12 and $37 per linear foot.
\n\n\n\nThat comfy lounger on your patio may not be so lovely after it’s been thrown around by the wind and flood waters. Your outdoor furniture and decor could easily be damaged or damage other property. Move anything not bolted down to a secure location, such as a shed or garage, so you won’t need to recover or repair them after the storm.
\n\n\n\nCost: Nothing if you already have a shed or garage to store your items in.
\n\n\n\n![\"leaves](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/30120082286_d296f7477f_k-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dan Keck / Flickr / Public Domain
\n\n\n\nStorm surges during the hurricane can flood your yard. That water won’t leave if it doesn’t have a clear path to nearby storm drains. Leaves and debris can clog the drains, causing flooding for you and your neighbors. Keep your yard clean from debris and avoid placing landscaping features between your yard and the drain if they might prevent water flow.
\n\n\n\nTo avoid standing water in a sloped yard, install a French drain. French drains are ditches filled with gravel with a perforated drain pipe underneath. Rather than pool in your yard or create unwanted rivers, the water will follow the French drain to the municipal storm drain. These installations can redirect water away from your foundation and prevent flooding inside your home.
\n\n\n\nCost: Yard cleanup typically costs between $153 and $374 but can cost as much as $1,059 in extreme cases. French drains cost between $500 and $18,000.
\n\n\n\nLeaving gutters clogged before a hurricane is asking for trouble. To avoid unnecessary flooding, clean your gutters twice a year. It’s best to start with the cleanest slate possible so the leaves don’t pile too high and cause more damage.
\n\n\n\nCost: Gutter cleaning costs between $72 and $424. Costs will be on the higher end for large and multi-story houses.
\n\n\n\n![\"water](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Automatic-Sprinklers.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ildar Sagdejev / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAutomatic sprinklers make our lives easier most of the year, but more water is the last thing your lawn needs during a hurricane. Your yard will already be saturated for a long while after the storm, and your plants will need to recover from the excess water. You may also want to turn off your water entirely to avoid damage from burst pipes.
\n\n\n\nCost: None. You will actually save money on your water bill.
\n\n\n\nHurricanes are a risk to homeowners all over Florida, and Jacksonville is no exception. Because Jacksonville is right on the coast, even a brush with a hurricane can cause major flooding in the city. Some damage is inevitable, but preparedness can save money and time as you pick up the pieces.
\n\n\n\nWhile you can make your landscape more resilient in storms, it can’t protect you. Create an emergency evacuation plan to keep you and your family safe.
\n\n\n\nHurricane prediction isn’t a perfect science. Jacksonville residents should expect a bush or direct hit from a hurricane every two or three years, with direct hits landing every 11 to 12 years. Direct hits cause the most damage, but even a brush can cause significant damage.
In Florida, hurricane season falls between June and November, with the peak times in August and October. It’s a good idea to start assessing your hurricane preparedness around this time, so you aren’t scrambling to protect your home.
Yes, and not just from hurricanes. The long rainy season from June to November can cause tributaries and creeks to rise and damage nearby properties. The City of Jacksonville warns that any property in the floodplain will likely be damaged at some point, though other properties are also at risk.
Some hurricane preparations you make in your yard will help with these issues, such as clearing paths to storm drains. However, you’ll likely need to make additional preparations.
You have a lot to check off your hurricane preparedness list to keep your family and property safe. Why not get some help to ease your burden? Local landscaping pros can prep your yard for hurricanes and clean up afterward.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: christina rutz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Jacksonville","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/1789c/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/107df/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 320w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/293e9/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 500w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/f2cbb/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 800w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/1789c/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 960w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/c26c2/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/1dd6e/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/67b76/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 320w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/8df11/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 500w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/98a65/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 800w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/1dd6e/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 960w,\n/static/e90b4693753cde2909591830c302a0d0/3cc96/5091579642_d9aa7b44db_k-2.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"12 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Jacksonville | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Hurricanes wreak havoc if you aren’t prepared. Here’s how to implement hurricane-resistant landscaping for your Jacksonville home."}}},{"node":{"id":"5bfa6218-9b1f-5e1d-b7ed-f14cb685f0c7","slug":"drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-for-california","path":"/lawn-care/ca/drought-resistant-landscaping-ideas-for-california/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"June 6th, 2023","excerpt":"Drought is inevitable in California. We don’t have to like it, but we do have to live with it. However, you don’t have to watch your yard die (or your water bill climb) every summer. Adapt your yard to better survive hot, dry conditions, and your water bills and yard maintenance will drop off significantly. […]
\n","content":"\nDrought is inevitable in California. We don’t have to like it, but we do have to live with it. However, you don’t have to watch your yard die (or your water bill climb) every summer. Adapt your yard to better survive hot, dry conditions, and your water bills and yard maintenance will drop off significantly. Consider the following drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for California.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhether you need a simple first step or want to take drastic measures, the following strategies will reduce water usage. You can apply each drought-resistant landscaping tip on its own or in combination with others.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/poppy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: rhyman007 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhile it’s tempting to choose plants solely based on appearance, some plants have higher water needs than others. Focus on garden plants that have low water needs, such as succulents. You can also choose from a variety of other plant types, from trees to ornamental grasses.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia native plants are more likely to be drought-resistant than non-native plants. They also tend to be:
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to narrow your search by region, county, or city. For example, a plant native to Southern California may not do well in Northern California. Here are some drought-resistant California native plants to get you started:
\n\n\n\nKeep in mind that newly planted specimens will need more water than established plants. These increased water needs are why perennials are typically better than annuals.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rocky-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: IKALSEMI / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nPlants are often the focal point of gardens, but rocks deserve more credit. If you’re not convinced, check out the California Rock Garden at UC Davis or Dave’s Rock Garden in Encinitas. These gardens showcase rocks of various shapes, sizes, and colors alongside native plants.
\n\n\n\nIf you feel inspired, make your own rock garden. Choose neutral-toned or colorful rocks to suit your tastes, and arrange them in whatever patterns your heart desires. Styles can range from desert landscapes to zen gardens. You also can integrate rocks into a small part of your yard rather than the whole thing. Here are some elements you could include:
\n\n\n\nNote: While many rock gardens include water features, it’s not a very drought-friendly option. Consider dry ponds or riverbeds instead. You also could use a bird bath to keep visiting wildlife happy and hydrated.
\n\n\n\nRock gardens aren’t just an aesthetic choice. The rocks require no water or maintenance. They also suppress weeds and prevent garden plants from growing where you don’t want them to. Of course, you don’t have to forgo vegetation altogether. Some plants, such as chalk dudleya, grow better in rocky environments and require little irrigation to survive.
\n\n\n\n![\"Gardener](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mulchy-copy-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: artursfoto / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhat is mulch? Mulch is organic or inorganic material spread over the ground, typically around plants. Examples include:
\n\n\n\nMulch plays many roles in landscaping, but how does it help with drought resistance? When applied over the soil, mulch can help retain moisture by preventing evaporation. You also can use it to cover large areas as an alternative to grass or groundcovers. When placed around plants, it will suppress weeds competing for water.
\n\n\n\n![\"Wireless](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rain-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Steven White’s Images / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhether or not your plants are drought-resistant, you may be overwatering. Many plants need less water than you expect to survive and can go dormant to survive dry conditions. The water also could be going to the wrong place entirely, where it is not accessible to the plants. Here are some steps to take to make sure your irrigation systems are water-wise:
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sarah Stierch / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to drought resistance, lawns have a bad reputation. 40% to 60% of landscape irrigation is used for turfgrass. You don’t necessarily have to give up your lawn entirely, but you should consider what you want out of your lawn and what alternatives could work just as well.
\n\n\n\nConsider how much lawn you need. Maybe your kids enjoy the backyard lawn, but the front yard lawn doesn’t get much use. You also may want to extend your patio a little further to better host guests. These are perfect opportunities to reduce your turf square footage and save water. Some counties, such as Los Angeles, offer rebates based on how much grass you remove.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to replace your lawn completely, consider these drought-tolerant alternatives:
\n\n\n\n*Artificial turf is not eligible for lawn removal rebates.
\n\n\n\n![\"Installing](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/hard-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: JPLDesigns / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nA hardscape is an artificial landscape design that doesn’t use plants. You can create patios, walkways, retaining walls, fire pits, or basketball courts. Here are some possible materials:
\n\n\n\nNo vegetation means no irrigation. However, permeable surfaces are the most drought-friendly way to go. They reduce runoff and allow water to seep into the soil to be used by nearby plants.
\n\n\n\n![\"xeriscape](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/xeri-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: remedypic / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIf several of these ideas have piqued your interest, consider a more radical redesign. A xeriscape landscape design requires little to no water or maintenance. Here are the fundamental principles, many of which we’ve covered in this article:
\n\n\n\nWhile each part of xeriscaping saves water, combining all of them makes this strategy the most effective.
\n\n\n\nThis landscape design is best for homeowners who want to remodel their yards and don’t mind the extra time and cost. It’s also suitable for currently empty yards or newly built homes.
\n\n\n\nCalifornia cities and counties often offer rebates for drought-tolerant landscaping, but you need to meet certain conditions. Possible requirements include:
●Removal of turfgrass (typically around 200 to 500 square feet at minimum)
●Installation of native or drought-tolerant plants
●Use of mulch and rocks
●Permeable hardscaping
●Pool removal
●Irrigation upgrades
●Stormwater retention systems
Check your local county rules for specific requirements and rebate programs. You will likely need to apply for these rebates before you start your project, or you may not be eligible. Artificial turf does not count toward these rebates.
As of 2022, turf replacement rebates are exempt from state income tax.
Often, the answer is yes. Hardscaping, rock gardens, and inorganic mulch (excluding rubber and landscape fabric) close to your home can help reduce the spread of fire. You must still be mindful of flammable materials near your home, such as wooden patio furniture. Choose non-flammable materials whenever possible.
Drought-tolerant plants are also beneficial because they tend to be less dry and flammable. However, no plant is entirely fireproof, and they must be well-hydrated to have the best chance of survival. Keep plants spaced out and far away from your house’s walls so the fire doesn’t have a direct route to your home.
The most drought-friendly grass types in California are:
●Zoysiagrass
●Buffalograss
●Bermudagrass
●Bentgrass
Some drought-tolerant changes are easy to make. A trip to your local native plant nursery or a DIY drip irrigation kit are projects some homeowners are happy to tackle.
However, large projects can take time and effort. A landscaping professional can simplify drought-resistant landscaping for you. Wikilawn can connect you to local pros in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and many other California cities.
Main Photo Credit: LookTarn / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"7 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for California","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1789c/bromeliad.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/107df/bromeliad.jpg 320w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/293e9/bromeliad.jpg 500w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/f2cbb/bromeliad.jpg 800w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1789c/bromeliad.jpg 960w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/c26c2/bromeliad.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1dd6e/bromeliad.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/67b76/bromeliad.webp 320w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/8df11/bromeliad.webp 500w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/98a65/bromeliad.webp 800w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/1dd6e/bromeliad.webp 960w,\n/static/d37982b0eb041e3444124a24dae9cc6f/3cc96/bromeliad.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for California | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Drought-resistant landscaping ideas for California include low-water plants, smart irrigation, and inorganic features."}}},{"node":{"id":"db950d5b-13f5-5b45-8e60-5768484a69c8","slug":"best-grass-types-kenosha","path":"/lawn-care/wi/kenosha/best-grass-types-kenosha/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"eca3f421-04d7-5366-a65f-04bb24060354","name":"Kenosha","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wi/kenosha/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"9503671f-e071-545d-b382-450feba6b3a6","name":"Wisconsin","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/wi/"}],"date":"March 21st, 2023","excerpt":"Kenosha is known for its beautiful public parks and gardens, so if you live in this stunning city, you might want to capture some of that beauty in your own front yard. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, you can start by using one of the best turf types for Kenosha, Wisconsin. In […]
\n","content":"\nKenosha is known for its beautiful public parks and gardens, so if you live in this stunning city, you might want to capture some of that beauty in your own front yard. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, you can start by using one of the best turf types for Kenosha, Wisconsin.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThere are two categories of grass:
\n\n\n\nKenosha’s weather ranges widely, from warm to cold and snowy with cloudy skies. Having the right grass can help ensure that your Kenosha lawn stays healthy throughout the year. Cold-season grasses tend to do better in this climate.
\n\n\n\nIf you want your lawn to flourish, choose one of these grasses below.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass appears throughout the United States, but it really thrives in Northern areas. This grass is known for its dense texture and blue-green color. It thrives in full sun and boasts excellent ability to self-repair.
\n\n\n\nNevertheless, Kentucky bluegrass can have problems with too much heat, bad soil, and drought. This grass type is also susceptible to disease, thatch, and insects. You can improve its year-round durability by mixing it with perennial ryegrass. It grows more slowly than some other grasses and doesn’t tolerate partial shade as well as other grass types.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Underground stems (known as rhizomes).
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Partial shade to full sun.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High but long periods of drought will lead to dormancy.
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High in colder weather, lower in warmer seasons.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Provide an inch of water weekly; mow every 5-7 days; fertilize 1-3 times a year.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1 to 3 inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a soft grass that greens up pretty quickly after the snow melts. Its color usually ranges from medium to dark green. It’s low-maintenance, tolerates cold, andresists wear once established as a mature turf. Because of its protective properties, perennial ryegrass is often mixed with other grass types.
\n\n\n\nHowever, unlike other grass types, perennial ryegrass can’t self-repair. Moreover, this grass can be difficult to manage because it grows fast. It can sometimes struggle against drought and heat and doesn’t resist fungal diseases well. It also doesn’t tolerate partial shade as well as some other types of grass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Producing neither rhizomes nor stolons, you’ll need to seed or lay sod on the entire lawn to grow this grass.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate, depending on the variety.
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow and water frequently; fertilize every 4-6 weeks.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1.5–2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a popular and versatile type of grass that does relatively well in both full sun and partial shade. Its heat tolerance is actually the highest among cool-season grass types. Moreover, tall fescue is a champ at withstanding drought. Additionally, this moderate to coarse-textured grass resists diseases and weeds. It has a medium to dark-green hue.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue, however, struggles to repair itself. Although it’s relatively low-maintenance, it grows quickly and may require frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Grows in clumps and spreads through tillers (vertical shoots that grow from the base of the plant).
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Very high.
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Best to mow weekly; requires minimal fertilization; water as needed unless you want your lawn to go dormant.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 3.5-4 inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine fescue is a medium to blue-green grass that can keep its color year-round. There’s a high variety of fine fescue grasses to choose from. They can also be mixed with other grass types. Fine fescue is a versatile, low-maintenance option that tolerates full sun and partial shade relatively well. Although it may go dormant during droughts, its drought resistance is still fairly high.
\n\n\n\nHowever, fine fescue isn’t suitable for high-traffic and may easily catch diseases. Furthermore, be careful with fertilizers, as they can cause high thatch levels.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass.
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (modified stems that run underground).
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High.
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate to low, not best for heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow every 2-3 weeks until growth slows in the summer; fertilize 2-4 times a year; aerate once a year.
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 3 to 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is the best grass type for a low-maintenance lawn in Kenosha. However, it will still require regular mowing. The best height for mowing fine fescue is 2.5 to 4 inches, and it should always be above 2 inches.
Perennial ryegrass and tall fescue both tolerate foot traffic well. But keep in mind that these grass types aren’t as good at repairing themselves. On the other hand, Kentucky bluegrass has a fantastic ability to repair itself and is more resilient during the colder months.
Tall fescue and fine fescue both tolerate partial shade, so you can pick whichever one is better suited for your lawn.
Kentucky bluegrass is great for pet owners. It can heal its damaged spots and holds up well to foot traffic. It also has a soft texture that’s pleasant to walk on.
When you look for the right grass types for your Kenosha landscape, you’ll want to consider your specific needs and requirements. Some grass types may be better suited for high-traffic areas, while others may require less maintenance. So make sure that you pick the grass type that’s most suitable.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to picking your new grass, you can make additional improvements to your landscape. For example, consider adding native Kenosha plants to enhance its appearance. You should also consider winterizing your lawn and garden so that they can endure Kenosha’s cold winter temperatures.
\n\n\n\nSelecting the perfect grass type is only the beginning. Keep your new lawn green and healthy with services from WikiLawn’s Kenosha lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Teemu08 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Kenosha","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.9448946515397083,"src":"/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/1789c/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/107df/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.jpg 320w,\n/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/293e9/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.jpg 500w,\n/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/f2cbb/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.jpg 800w,\n/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/1789c/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.jpg 960w,\n/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/c26c2/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/1dd6e/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/67b76/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.webp 320w,\n/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/8df11/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.webp 500w,\n/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/98a65/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.webp 800w,\n/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/1dd6e/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.webp 960w,\n/static/6480c1de2e836ffb7d80b505826e4a83/3cc96/1280px-Manor_House_Kenosha.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Grass Types for Kenosha, Wisconsin","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Kenosha is known for its beautiful public parks. Are you looking to bring that beauty to your own lawn? Read on to find out about the best Kenosha grass types."}}},{"node":{"id":"f306e43f-d25e-5a96-a6e2-eaec4e4d56d2","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/low-maintenance-landscaping-dallas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"March 21st, 2023","excerpt":"Let’s face it, your weekends are better spent cheering on your favorite team than maintaining your North Texas lawn. Whether you are an Aggie or a Longhorn, there are low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will cut down on your outdoor chores so you can get back to the “Lone Star Showdown.” Switching to low-maintenance landscaping means […]
\n","content":"\nLet’s face it, your weekends are better spent cheering on your favorite team than maintaining your North Texas lawn. Whether you are an Aggie or a Longhorn, there are low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will cut down on your outdoor chores so you can get back to the “Lone Star Showdown.”
\n\n\n\nSwitching to low-maintenance landscaping means less time, effort, water, weeding, mowing, and pests. In subtropical areas like Dallas, where summer temperatures can soar to well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, energy and water conservation is important.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennials-landscaping.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Acabashi / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe bright blooms you see as you’re strolling through your local store are annuals. These flowers are less expensive and look great, for now, lasting one growing season before dying in late fall. If bright blooms are your thing, consider switching out your annuals for drought-tolerant perennials.
\n\n\n\nPerennials have a shorter, more defined blooming season than annuals, but they survive the cold winters and bloom every year. They are more expensive upfront. However, they tolerate extreme weather and come in many varieties such as deer-resistant and shade-loving types for your urban Dallas yard.
\n\n\n\nIf you are ready for landscaping beauty on repeat, check out some of the best heat-tolerant perennials for Dallas:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The average cost of a perennial plant varies depending on the size and type of plant, purchase location, and whether you are having a professional handle your landscaping. If you head to your local store to purchase your own perennials, you can expect to spend between $10 to $100 per plant.
\n\n\n\n![\"purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/native-plants.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Hippopx
\n\n\n\nNative Texas plants are the most low-maintenance plants you can include in your landscaping project. They promote a healthy ecosystem and thrive in the North Texas heat while remaining cold-hardy enough to survive a surprise winter snow. Native plants are hands-off and resistant to local insects and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThere are many Dallas native plants to choose from. Take a look at some examples:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Like perennials, 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![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Garden-Bed-.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ronstik / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nMulch is an inexpensive and low-effort DIY job that will provide a big payoff for your Texas landscape. It is a loose material typically made of organic matter like compost, tree bark, and wood chips. Mulch helps reduce weeds, conserve moisture, and protect your plants’ roots from heat.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch adds beneficial nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Inorganic mulches like rubber and gravel are more low-maintenance and durable but do not offer additional nutrients. It is important to note that organic mulches like wood chips must be replaced each year with a fresh layer.
\n\n\n\nSome examples of mulch are:
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\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. Rubber mulch is more durable and expensive, costing around $8 to $10 per 0.8-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![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backyard-Hardscaping-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bill Wilson / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nTexas summers are hot, and there’s nothing more you want to do than relax at your backyard barbecue with a refreshing frozen margarita. The fewer plants in your landscaping design, the less time you will spend maintaining your lawn and garden. Consider hardscaping your backyard to add sustainable visual interest while eliminating the need for weekly maintenance.
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are man-made features, including:
\n\n\n\nFor the most part, hardscapes are a set-it-and-forget-it choice for garden design. They don’t require watering, pruning, or mowing. In fact, they don’t require maintenance at all except for an annual cleaning. Hardscapes are an expensive upfront investment, but they increase home value and curb appeal, saving you time and money in the long run.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Be prepared to spend around $7,500 for a new deck, $4,000 for a patio, $850 for a fire pit, and $3,000 for a flagstone walkway.
\n\n\n\n![\"plants](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeremy Levine / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLike hardscaping, xeriscaping focuses on low-maintenance landscaping and water conservation. In the U.S., landscape irrigation makes up nearly one-third of all residential water use. Xeriscaping involves creating a beautiful home landscape that requires no watering except rainfall.
\n\n\n\nDallas native plants are a great water-wise option for xeriscaping your yard. They are naturally drought resistant and adapted to harsh Texas summers. Besides native plants, some basic steps for xeriscaping your yard include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional xeriscaping costs between $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on many factors like plant selection and the size of your yard. While upfront costs may seem high, you will be saving around $0.36 per square foot annually on water and maintenance costs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Groundcover.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: I.Sáček, senior / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nWho says your entire yard has to be covered in traditional grass for a thick, green appearance? Low-maintenance groundcover makes a great alternative to traditional turfgrass. Groundcover plants grow a few inches tall and spread quickly to fill horizontal space.
\n\n\n\nGroundcover can fill areas of your lawn to mimic “grass,” while their low-maintenance attitude means less work for you. These plants still require water and the occasional fertilizer, but selecting a native Texas groundcover will ensure your new “grass” is hardy, drought tolerant, and best of all, low maintenance.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular Dallas groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: According to Dallas landscaping experts, Eco Blossom Nursery, groundcover plants cost around $5 to $50 each, depending on size.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Perfect Grass / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nChannel your inner Brady Bunch with artificial turf. Contrary to popular belief, this synthetic grass is eco-friendly, comes in a variety of colors and styles, and is essentially an outdoor carpet. Thanks to technological advancements, it is hard to tell fake grass from real grass in most cases.
\n\n\n\nArtificial grass is virtually maintenance-free. However, it is expensive to install and may render your soil unusable in the future.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Professional artificial grass installation costs between $5 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"plants](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Succulent-Garden.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nDallas natives love their Cowboys and Tex-Mex. If you would rather spend more time perfecting your brisket tacos and less time maintaining your yard, consider planting drought-resistant succulents like cacti or agaves.
\n\n\n\nSucculents love dry, arid climates and thrive in the Texas climate thanks to their thick leaves. They prefer to be left alone, so you can forget about watering your plants and let nature take over. Succulents come in a variety of shapes and sizes and work great in back and front yards.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these popular succulents that are great for Dallas yards:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of succulents:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The price depends on the size and type of succulent and ranges from $10 to $75 per plant.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch provides moisture retention and nutrients for your plants. Experts recommend laying new mulch on top of your existing mulch annually in the spring after the last frost.
Succulents thrive in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Typically, water your succulent plants once per week when it has not rained.
There are many types of artificial turf, including pet-friendly turf, that are specially designed for your furry family members to be stain and odor resistant and easy to clean.
Low-maintenance landscaping is the first step to reclaiming your weekends. Unfortunately, low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance, and you will still find yourself stuck outside in the blistering sun.
Instead of wasting your time on lawn maintenance, consider letting Wikilawn hook you up with a local landscaping company that can handle all of your lawn care needs so you can get back to Margarita Mile.
Main Image Credit: Rachel Kramer / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Dallas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1789c/Landscaping-Garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/107df/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/293e9/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/f2cbb/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 800w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1789c/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 960w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/c26c2/Landscaping-Garden.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1dd6e/Landscaping-Garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/67b76/Landscaping-Garden.webp 320w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/8df11/Landscaping-Garden.webp 500w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/98a65/Landscaping-Garden.webp 800w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/1dd6e/Landscaping-Garden.webp 960w,\n/static/4ab77cb74d540f3bfbf3c539315f4350/3cc96/Landscaping-Garden.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Dallas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Spend more time tending to your BBQ with these low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Dallas, including the estimated cost of each."}}},{"node":{"id":"8b1ccec7-8674-5ebe-a821-930ad25bdf16","slug":"hydroseeding","path":"/blog/hydroseeding/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"A writer by trade, Janine Caayao graduated from the University of the Philippines. She draws, plays video games, and snuggles with her cats during her free time.","name":"Janine Caayao","id":"eab2e0a9-2863-5dad-b98f-fe06c596c508","path":"/author/janine-caayao/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4577dd58c063fcc8a254c30d035fc354?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Starting a new lawn from scratch may seem daunting. Seeding takes effort and takes a while to show results; laying sod, on the other hand, is instant but expensive. Well, let us introduce you to a third option: hydroseeding, also called hydraulic mulch seeding. In this article: Hydroseeding Explained Hydroseeding is pretty straightforward: It’s just […]
\n","content":"\nStarting a new lawn from scratch may seem daunting. Seeding takes effort and takes a while to show results; laying sod, on the other hand, is instant but expensive. Well, let us introduce you to a third option: hydroseeding, also called hydraulic mulch seeding.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nHydroseeding is pretty straightforward: It’s just the process of seeding an area using a slurry. This slurry is composed primarily of water, seeds, mulch, and fertilizer, but some hydroseed mixtures also include lawn-friendly dye and a tackifier. Here’s what each slurry component brings to the table.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWater is the main component and what makes the hydroseed mixture fluid enough to be a sprayable slurry (it’s also where the “hydro” comes from). When mixed with mulch, the slurry becomes denser, heavier, and sticky, helping the slurry stick to the soil. The abundant water also makes the seeds germinate and grow faster compared to those that were hand-seeded.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOne of the advantages of hydroseeding is that you can pick and choose what types of grass seeds you want to include in your hydroseed slurry. With sod, you can only typically use one type of turf.
\n\n\n\nWhile many hydroseeding slurries use grass seeds, you can also use the seeds of different types of plants. Some hydroseed projects use wildflower seeds, for example.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mulch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: christina rutz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhen mixed with water, mulch helps seeds stick to the soil. It also has other functions, mainly protecting seeds from the elements like wind, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations. Mulch also nourishes the growing grass seedlings as it starts decomposing.
\n\n\n\nHydroseed slurries can use a variety of mulches with different levels of effectiveness. Here are some of them:
\n\n\n\nThe last crucial component of a hydroseed slurry is the fertilizer. It contains nutrients that will feed your new grass as it grows to become a healthy lawn. The fertilizer typically doesn’t last throughout the growing period, so it’s a good idea to fertilize your new lawn again later on.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor the best results, the hydroseed slurry should be sprayed evenly across bare soil. A lawn-friendly dye helps show where the slurry has already been sprayed to ensure even coverage. This component is optional, though.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIs the area you’re hydroseeding prone to soil erosion and runoff? Your hydroseed mixture might need a tackifier, which is a binding agent that helps the slurry stick to the soil. Typically, flat lawns don’t need a tackifier, as there’s little erosion risk.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Hydroseeded-lawn-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: BanksPhotos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nSo what makes hydroseeding a great seeding method? Here are some benefits of hydroseeding and hydroseeded lawns:
\n\n\n\nHowever, hydroseeding is not perfect. Here are some disadvantages of hydroseeding:
\n\n\n\nThe most enticing aspect of sod is how it gives you a beautiful lawn very fast; after a short waiting period, you’ll be able to walk on your new lawn. Laying sod has a few disadvantages, though. It can look artificial, and it’s typically less hardy than a hydroseeded or traditionally-seeded lawn. It’s also more expensive to boot.
\n\n\n\nIf you can get past the wait time, hydroseeding seems like the better option, and not just because of the lower price tag. Although it takes a while to grow, seeded lawns (including hydroseeded lawns) are hardier and more disease-resistant than sod because they have stronger root systems. Hydroseed also offers more customization and looks more natural than sod.
\n\n\n\nHowever, hydroseeded lawns are more delicate while they’re growing. They need a lot of water and can’t be walked on for about 5 weeks. Since you’re growing grass from seed, you also can’t hydroseed outside of your turf’s growing season, while you can install sod at any time of year.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTraditional seeding is the cheapest seeding method and is as customizable as hydroseeding; however, it has a whole slew of disadvantages that may deter you from hand-seeding your lawn. Hand-seeding takes longer, and traditionally seeded lawns take longer to germinate. It may even grow patchy, requiring more work for your lawn to look uniform.
\n\n\n\nHydroseeding is more expensive and uses more water, but it’s more convenient. Hydroseeded lawns also sprout faster and tend to grow more uniformly than traditionally seeded lawns.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Hydroseeding-of-Lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: BanksPhotos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nThe best time to hydroseed is the same as if you were hand-seeding; always hydroseed during the turf’s growing season. Warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass and Bahiagrass should be hydroseeded in late spring or early summer, while cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fescues should be hydroseeded in late summer or early fall.
\n\n\n\nLet’s compare hydroseeding in the spring, fall, and summer:
\n\n\n\nNow that you know the best time to hydroseed, it’s time to learn how the hydroseed process works. If you ever want to hydroseed your lawn DIY, here is a short step-by-step guide:
\n\n\n\nFor a more in-depth look at hydroseeding your own lawn, you can read our complete guide to DIY hydroseeding.
\n\n\n\nMaintaining your new hydroseed lawn is important in ensuring success. Here’s how to maintain your hydroseeded lawn:
\n\n\n\nThe cost of professional hydroseeding depends on many factors, such as the condition of your lawn and how big it is. However, homeowners can typically expect hydroseeding to cost an average of 8 to 20 cents per square foot. A 3,000 sq. ft. lawn would cost anywhere from $240 to $600 to be hydroseeded.
\n\n\n\nProfessionals will typically charge a discounted rate if you’re hydroseeding by the acre. Rates can also vary drastically depending on where you live in the US.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen watering your hydroseeded lawn, make sure not to run your sprinklers for more than 15 minutes. Otherwise, you might overwater your lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWalking on your new hydroseeded lawn before it’s established can form bare spots.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWait for at least 3 to 4 months before using weed control products on your hydroseed lawn. Make sure to get rid of weeds before starting your hydroseed project. In case you find any weeds, you can try hand-pulling them.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIt’s generally not recommended to do so, but you can. It’s just not a good idea because the hydroseed slurry can kill your existing grass. Try overseeding instead if you want to fill out bare patches in your lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHydroseeding is a good option to consider if you want to grow a new lawn relatively quickly without breaking the bank. It’s more cost-effective than laying sod, more efficient than traditional seeding, and isn’t too difficult to DIY. But why risk hydroseeding your lawn yourself when you can hire a professional lawn care service instead?
Wikilawn can help you find a lawn care pro near you to help you with hydroseeding and your other lawn care needs, including regular maintenance.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Sue Thompson / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n","title":"What is Hydroseeding?","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5544041450777202,"src":"/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/1789c/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/107df/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.jpg 320w,\n/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/293e9/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.jpg 500w,\n/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/f2cbb/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.jpg 800w,\n/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/1789c/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.jpg 960w,\n/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/c26c2/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/1dd6e/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/67b76/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.webp 320w,\n/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/8df11/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.webp 500w,\n/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/98a65/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.webp 800w,\n/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/1dd6e/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.webp 960w,\n/static/c13b0ccc5af8da1d6ec515c1f2800702/3cc96/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"What is Hydroseeding? | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"What’s a more cost-effective way to grow a new lawn without the hassle of hand-seeding? That would be hydroseeding. Find out more in this article."}}},{"node":{"id":"12104994-1221-5b0e-9aff-b360c2d37b4c","slug":"worst-backyard-pests-denver","path":"/lawn-care/co/denver/worst-backyard-pests-denver/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"be8bb3a1-b40c-57ba-87f7-ff69490271a0","name":"Colorado","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/"},{"id":"29926219-60e0-5bc5-88dc-c08300a10daf","name":"Denver","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/denver/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"July 18th, 2019","excerpt":"Denver might be cool (literally and figuratively), but backyard pests are out there, lurking just below our feet, busily gnawing away at our carefully nurtured lawns.
\n","content":"\nWe might think that bug-ugly creatures that invade and destroy lawns are the bane of hot, moist parts of the country. It’s true the Southern states suffer the worst, but no part of the U.S is free of grass-chomping insects. That includes Denver.
\n\n\n\nYes, Denver might be cool (literally and figuratively), but they’re out there, lurking just below our feet, busily gnawing away at our carefully nurtured lawns.
\n\n\n\nNearly all insects that can seriously hurt Denver lawns do so in their larva stage — as grub worms. Most varieties feed low on the grass blades and on roots. If you have an infestation, a chunk of sod will come up easily in your hand and you can see the little creatures squirming around.
\n\n\n\nBut here’s good news! The creepy-crawlies most likely to pester Denver neighborhoods can be evicted. The best way to do it is so simple you’ll be smiling by the end of this article.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/J-z_JY_5uFvapkV_PvyoE2d_nzob-TrGncIl7T7NA9h7KPfw2A_VoLBo5SCwo7YwqoN9zxy6-I3T901RfZkwgpOMFjYF7iPkZC-UtmVKbB84US21glqJ0BS8zYgE67IkzO8s-0et\")
First, let’s identify the freeloaders that can lay waste to our backyards.
\n\n\n\nYou may see these black or brown weevils strolling across your sidewalk in the warm months. While their distinctive snouts look menacing, the adult bugs actually don’t do much damage. But in their earlier stage as a white grubworm they can take a toll. The grubs like to hang out around evergreen shrubs and trees where you may see patches of wilted grass and matter that looks like sawdust. Left untreated, billbug grubs can kill your lawn.
\n\n\n\nAn interesting name for a harmless-looking little winged creature you’ll see flitting about in the summer. The larvae will eat their way through the roots of your grass and then move on to your fir trees. In this stage, the gray grubs have distinctive orange-brown heads. Brown patches in your lawn in late summer are a clue you may have these pests.
\n\n\n\nIn parts of the country where they’re numerous, these big clumsy brown bugs are often called June bugs. They like to fly around outdoor lights on summer nights and freak you out when they cling to your skin. For years, Colorado was mostly spared from this insect, but the spread of suburban lawns has increased their population. Almost every American lawn has a few June bug grubs — fat white larvae — but they’re not a problem until they become a heavy infestation.
\n\n\n\nIn their adult stages, these are common moths. In their larval stages, they are brownish grubs distinguished by dark spots on their back. They spin silky webs in the grass or on leaves. They are one of the most common insects in Colorado. Although they come out at night to feed on grass blades, a healthy lawn can withstand them. Also, your backyard birds are efficient and cost-effective exterminators of this poacher.
\n\n\n\nOne lawn pest that is not a grub worm is the lawn mite. These nearly-invisible, spider-like little specks can wipe out a lawn if left unchecked. They prefer hot or dry weather and are not bashful about coming into your house. Fortunately, it’s easy to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/JVt1Gik5JiS3bSYEE1wW3wO-1q-RZkC362wnr8Qi9ujm4Px38c-kJTQehKtZE-A--5SuX40ffuah54VNbu5g3JbXvMk3O3NQedq8KT7fxtRhrnTp57H4_qaU7PHiyY405f-ppFqJ\")
Which brings us to the simple solution to backyard pests that will put a smile on your face:
\n\n\n\nSevere infestations may require the use of pesticides or professional help, but every infestation mentioned here can be prevented by proper lawn irrigation.
\n\n\n\nGrubs feed primarily at ground level or on shallow roots. Irrigation done in the morning at a rate of an inch per week (including rain) allows grass roots to descend deeper into the soil and become sturdier in order to withstand pest infestation.
\n\n\n\nProper fertilizing and aeration (getting rid of matted and thatched surface vegetation) also helps.
\n\n\n\nThe key word is “proper.” Overwatering may actually attract pests.
\n\n\n\nBy the way, lawn mites hate water and will evacuate ASAP when soaked down.
\n\n\n\nInterested in more information about lawn care and service in Denver? Visit our Denver lawn care page.
\n\n\n\nMain photo source: Greg the Busker, Flickr
\n","title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Denver (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3665730337078652,"src":"/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/1789c/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.jpg","srcSet":"/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/107df/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.jpg 320w,\n/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/293e9/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.jpg 500w,\n/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/f2cbb/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.jpg 800w,\n/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/1789c/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.jpg 960w,\n/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/fe0f3/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.jpg 973w","srcWebp":"/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/1dd6e/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/67b76/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.webp 320w,\n/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/8df11/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.webp 500w,\n/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/98a65/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.webp 800w,\n/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/1dd6e/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.webp 960w,\n/static/db17669da0a819ddded4b56cf045b09a/0439e/rsz_grub-greg-the-busker-flicker.webp 973w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Denver (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"04a743b0-4e21-586f-8896-2a48328c606a","slug":"best-grass-seeds-portland","path":"/lawn-care/oregon/portland/best-grass-seeds-portland/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Descendant of the Fulani tribe, Gettysburg-obsessed Marine Corps brat, and lover of all things writing and editing, Andréa Butler has penned articles for Sesi magazine and sites, such as LivingSocial, Talbot Digital, Xickle, and Rachel Ray. Andréa holds a B.A. in English from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and an M.A. in magazine journalism from Kent State University.","name":"Andréa Butler","id":"dae2e109-3ba9-5073-a19a-e341e567190e","path":"/author/andrea-butler/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c671545b46efb40d2596d32a775f26a1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"b01c7937-99d7-5473-926c-97b8b9c1c454","name":"Oregon","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oregon/"},{"id":"c32f974b-3776-5b5e-9d95-bf0f285dc5e4","name":"Portland","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oregon/portland/"}],"date":"May 22nd, 2023","excerpt":"Portland’s official nickname may be “The Rose City,” but those sweet-smelling blooms aren’t the only major growers ‘round this way. Turfgrasses are a big, big deal here, too. In fact, the Willamette Valley has a little nickname of its own — the “grass seed capital of the world.” With a reputation like that, securing a […]
\n","content":"\nPortland’s official nickname may be “The Rose City,” but those sweet-smelling blooms aren’t the only major growers ‘round this way. Turfgrasses are a big, big deal here, too. In fact, the Willamette Valley has a little nickname of its own — the “grass seed capital of the world.” With a reputation like that, securing a fantastically green lawn this side of Oregon should be easy peasy. Achieve those ambitions with the help of our roundup of the five best grass seeds for Portland.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season and cool-season grasses differ from one another mostly due to their varied biologies, which affect how each one completes photosynthesis. This, in turn, also determines the sort of weather in which each distinct grass type can thrive.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses include bermudagrass, Zoysia, and buffalograss, to name a few. They like air temperatures up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit because they can turn carbon dioxide into oxygen more readily in hot conditions. Due to their drought tolerance, love of full sun, and dislike of freezing temperatures, these grass types thrive from early summer to early fall.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses include tall fescue, fine fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass, all of which do well in Oregon. Ideally suited for air temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, this grass seed is resistant to frost and has a growing season from fall to early spring.
\n\n\n\nOregon’s cold winters are way too taxing for those warm-season grasses, which are not known to have much of a cold tolerance. That’s why cool-season grasses, and cool-season grasses only, are the right choice for Portland-area lawns.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere’s nothing better than stepping barefoot onto a thick, soft, carpet-like lawn on a warm, summer day. No wonder homeowners in Portland often want to plant this grass type — not only does it feel incredible underfoot, but it’s also appreciated for its dark green color with a hint of blue at the tip.
\n\n\n\nA quick note, though: As a standalone turfgrass, Kentucky bluegrass thrives best in the Eastern part of the state, while in Portland, Kentucky bluegrass is best used as part of a blend of perennial ryegrass and/or different types of fine fescues.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also a high-maintenance lawn seed that craves lots of water and sun and is prone to thatch, so be sure you’re up for the challenge.
\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: 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: In Portland specifically, Kentucky bluegrass works best in a grass seed mix that includes perennial ryegrass and/or varieties of fine fescues. This grass is often used on golf courses.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis type of lawn seed really refers to a number of distinct grass species, including creeping red fescue, Chewings fescue, hard fescue, and sheep fescue, each of which grows differently depending on the environment — some fare better in shade and others in full sun. Color also varies depending on the type of fine fescue, ranging from medium green to dark green.
\n\n\n\nA low-maintenance option adapted to the Pacific Northwest, fine fescues are typically sold in grass seed mixes, blending sun and shade lovers together for the best lawn outcome. Many seed mixes also include perennial ryegrass for an added germination speed boost. Once established, your new lawn will feel comfy underfoot, as the short, fine blades are soft to the touch. It’ll also be OK for average yard use, just not heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as Chewings, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Between 2.5 and 4 inches, depending on species
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate; common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6 – 6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions; prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Adapted to the entire state; does best when mixed with other fine fescues or with perennial ryegrass
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Aaron Patton / Purdue’s Turfgrass Science Program
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith its deep root system and coarser texture, turf-type tall fescue is good for high traffic areas, as it can recover pretty well. Plant this grass seed in September or October, and with proper care, homeowners can expect it to remain green all year long.
\n\n\n\nAnother low-maintenance, disease-resistant lawn seed, turf-type tall fescue is the most resistant to heat and drought than the other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nNote: It’s not a good idea to mix this type with grass seeds of a finer texture — that can make it too clumpy.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-style growth habit or rhizomes, depending on variety
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate; grows well in partial shade and full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Weekly mowing; low water and fertilization needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Between 2 and 4 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained; use fungicide to fight brown patch
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5–7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Dry, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Higher shade tolerance than Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis quickly germinating, Oregon-grown grass seed produces bunch-style growth with blades that are a bright green to dark green color. It’s adaptable to many different soil conditions (including clay and poorly drained soils), quite disease-resistant, soft on bare feet, and so durable it stands up well to heavy traffic and can maintain its green color throughout winter. Of the cool-season grasses, it is not the most drought-tolerant or resistant to extreme cold.
\n\n\n\nNot only does perennial ryegrass work well for a new lawn, especially when mixed with Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescues, and/or colonial bentgrass, but it’s also a top choice for overseeding an existing lawn. Why? Germination can happen in as little as seven to 10 days.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: 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: Between 1.5 and 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High; common diseases include gray leaf spots, 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: Grown in Oregon and used in most major sporting event fields across the country
\n\n\n\n![\"Colonial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Colonial-Bentgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOvertaking practically every other grass type it comes in contact with, colonial bentgrass is fast-growing and well-suited to Portland’s coastal conditions. Despite its seemingly effortless, relentless growth — if you plant a seed mix of colonial bentgrass, perennial ryegrass, and/or fine fescues, the bentgrass will be the dominant grass type within two years — this species is a bit high-maintenance. It’s susceptible to disease and insects, doesn’t do well under heavy foot traffic, and is prone to thatch.
\n\n\n\nCaring for this soft, bright green grass type involves detaching every spring, mowing low, and watering two to three times a week for the best aesthetics. Colonial bentgrass can withstand drought and cold winters; it just goes dormant and turns brown.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Short rhizomes that may bring about short stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nTraffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate to high; best when mowed short, at least once weekly
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: Between 0.5 and 1 inch
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate; susceptible to fusarium patch in the winter/vulnerable to take-all patch when young but severity decreases as turf develops
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates poor soil conditions, but prefers moist and fertile soil
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Colonial bentgrass is naturalized throughout the state because of its ability to dominate other grass types.
\n\n\n\nIdeally, you’ll want to reseed (or initially seed) your lawn between mid-August to mid-September. The temperatures during this time generally see lows in the 60s and highs in the 80s, and these mild conditions are prime for supporting fast germination. The other option for reseeding falls between early May and mid-June, but germination tends to be slower during this period.
Homeowners looking for a no-mow yard can opt for groundcover plants like sedum, minicolver, Irish moss, sedge, and liriope, to name a few. Or, try an “eco-lawn,” which also cuts down on fertilizer and water usage and limits mowing to once per month. Eco-lawns include wildflower grass mixes, which blend wildflowers with cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass.
Rather than planting non-native grass types with more water and fertilization needs, opt for native grasses that are already acclimated to Portland’s climate. In doing so, you’ll also be contributing to cultivating biodiversity, helping prevent erosion, and reducing pollution. Grasses native to the Portland area include blue grama grass (bouteloua gracilis) and Pacific reed grass (calamagrostis nutkaensis).
Consider your property’s growing conditions while choosing turfgrasses, flowers, and shrubs for your lawn, as shade, sun, and soil tolerance vary per variety. You’ll also want to purchase the grass seed or grass seed mix and other plants that best fit the amount of maintenance you’re willing to do. Not into yard work? Don’t plant Kentucky bluegrass or colonial bentgrass.
\n\n\n\nVisit places like Forest Park, Leach Botanical Garden, and The Grotto for inspo if you still have no idea where to begin. Of course, you can hire a local lawn care pro for more personalized assistance with maintaining your yard.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Fields Park in Portland / M.O. Stevens / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Seeds for Portland, OR","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5267175572519085,"src":"/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/1789c/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/107df/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.jpg 320w,\n/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/293e9/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.jpg 500w,\n/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/f2cbb/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.jpg 800w,\n/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/1789c/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.jpg 960w,\n/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/c26c2/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/1dd6e/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/67b76/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.webp 320w,\n/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/8df11/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.webp 500w,\n/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/98a65/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.webp 800w,\n/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/1dd6e/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.webp 960w,\n/static/4794c0267709fa38c6e7000fb63296ac/3cc96/The-Fields-Park-grass-Portland-Oregon.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Seeds for Portland, OR","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Ready to revamp your Portland-area lawn? We’ve broken down the five best grass seeds for the Willamette Valley based on yard conditions, maintenance, and more."}}},{"node":{"id":"9fbfe0d8-7076-5656-9429-0902cd51f3eb","slug":"the-worst-weeds-in-your-san-antonio-lawn","path":"/lawn-care/tx/san-antonio/the-worst-weeds-in-your-san-antonio-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"be366c94-0b46-5716-9ac2-ed152902f864","name":"San Antonio","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/san-antonio/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 12th, 2019","excerpt":"Here are the five worst weeds that San Antonio area homeowners have to contend with, from chickweed to thistle.
\n","content":"\nKeeping up with lawn maintenance can be tough in Central Texas. Not only is the climate hot year-round, but the worst weeds in your San Antonio lawn tend to grow faster than the grass…and some are harder to kill than others. Here are the worst weeds to look out for the next time you’re mowing:
\n\n\n\nThis notorious weed may seem simple enough with its small leaves and white flowers. But don’t let the appearance of chickweed fool you. This worst weed is hard to get rid of due to its ability to produce up to 15,000 seeds from just one plant! Chickweed can adapt and spread well all across the lawn, making it even harder to eradicate! You’ll find it growing in shaded parts of the yard where birds will visit it to eat the seeds.
\n\n\n\nThis broadleaf weed is easy to spot with its spiny leaves with jagged edges. Thistle looks a lot like a dandelion when it is small but will have a purple hue to it. Many homeowners consider thistle one of the worst weeds in your San Antonio lawn thanks to its quick growth rate and the amount of space it covers. When left untreated, thistle can grow tall and spread, blocking the grass underneath. Use gloves to pull out this sucker and make sure to get the entire root, so it doesn’t come back.
\n\n\n\n![\"Claytonia](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oZCwJz1ENkTp5CP68Ii_3YJaoiazV3mmo67f-38V0wlzDcfhspkAmk60ocIJ1QaHfS0adRKjQ18PW_RDAZ6-A0Q1Whm-MsGsXY0JPG4xDwJMD-1UBRyA_BCUnglJB2x9ZvGZNkvQ\")
Known as the Dolly Parton weed, this persistent perennial blooms from 9 to 5, when the sun’s out. It’s hard to get rid of because of its low stems and many seedpods it produces. Purslane seeds sit in the soil year after year as well. This is an edible weed although most homeowners may not be thrilled about a Purslane salad. It also is tolerant of both drought and heat, making it a stubborn plant that won’t go without a fight. You’ll know you have this weed in the lawn by spotting its red stems and clover-like leaves. Pull the weed by the roots and make sure you get the seeds to prevent it from re-rooting.
\n\n\n\nGrassy weeds are harder to spot thanks to their close resemblance to the grass. But over time, crabgrass will spread and choke the grass underneath. This weed usually grows faster than the rest of the lawn and can take over if not eliminated. Spotting and taking out crabgrass is critical as one plant can produce thousands of seeds. Pull it out by the roots (use a trowel or spade) as soon as it appears. To prevent it from returning, use a pre-emergent herbicide at the beginning of spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/XoY2FuipC1zoRkwypwcVf-Tjrzrxu1QifftBhn07W-peA5bS3tLxZeniv1hkmVMa5vEXr1DFU5da-rg6vxWlcqRKE1IdUt7TyhkwIun0LZNFJaYLObZ_Ciw1HA0i6ALOYO-Z-NbV\")
This other grass weed is a common problem all throughout the San Antonio and New Braunfels area. Dallisgrass is harder to spot at first since it looks much like the surrounding turf. However, if you miss a mow or two, you’ll find that the Dallisgrass stands much taller than the rest of the lawn. This weed can grow quite large, and a single plant can smother the surrounding grass. It’s a common issue for manicured lawns like athletic fields and golf courses.
\n\n\n\nSpotting any of these weeds early is the key to keeping them out of your manicured lawn. Your best defense is regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing, so the weeds won’t find bare spots to seed.
\n\n\n\nHave questions about lawn mowing and maintenance in San Antonio? Check out our San Antonio, Texas, lawn care page.
Ah, summer. But the livin’ isn’t so easy when pesky little critters show up. Slap! Smack! The following are the worst backyard pests in Virginia Beach.
\n","content":"\nAfter Virginia Beach’s cold and windy winters and constant rainfall, you want to enjoy your backyard barbeque or outside get-together when the weather is finally nice. Nothing can ruin your outdoor activities faster than an infestation of pesky bugs. This article explores seven of the worst backyard pests in Virginia Beach and how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mosquito-gbae23e6e4_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nWe’re all familiar with these annoying insects that sting and leave us itching. Mosquitoes are more than annoying, they can carry dangerous diseases like West Nile Virus and Zika virus. They can also cause skin irritation and allergies. These problems alone are enough to encourage efforts for mosquito control.
\n\n\n\nSome common symptoms that you’ve been stung by a mosquito include red, itchy bumps that may swell. As you may already know, they turn to sores if you scratch them. If you or visitors end up with bites after hanging outside your home, it’s an indication that you have mosquitoes.
\n\n\n\nMosquitoes breed in standing water. Any sources you have in your yard that can collect water, like birdbaths, flowerpots, or uncovered trash bins, could attract mosquitoes.
\n\n\n\nMosquitoes like to be outside during the lovely, warmer days of the year, just like humans. In Virginia Beach, mosquitoes are most active from late spring through early fall.
\n\n\n\nThere are some things you can do for mosquito control:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red_Ants_1214176165.jpg\")
Photo Credit: William Cho / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe Virginia area first experienced a fire ant infestation in 1989. Most of the fire ants came from infested plant products, or they traveled from infested areas that were close by.
\n\n\n\nFire ants are another nuisance that not only disrupt your peaceful get-togethers with their mere presence, but fire ants can sting, too. Unlike mosquitoes, whose stings leave you itchy, fire ant stings are usually painful. These reddish-brown pests are known for their large, visible mounds in the soil, which can reach up to 18 inches tall. They attack anything that disturbs their nests. Some people can have an allergic reaction to fire ant stings, which can be life-threatening.
\n\n\n\nFire ants build their mounds anywhere, but they gravitate towards sunny and open areas. Look out for small dirt hills or mountains. Like mosquitoes, they prefer moisture, so their homes are often found next to water sources and trees.
\n\n\n\nFire ants like to build multiple mounds in an area. Sometimes there are hundreds of mounds across an acre of land. If you see several mounds throughout your yard, you probably have fire ants. They also build mounds in the cracks of sidewalks, around shrubs, and in landscape beds.
\n\n\n\nIf you or visitors have redness and itchiness, you may have been stung by fire ants. Swelling at the stinging site can also occur. Unlike mosquito bites, fire ant stings usually turn into blisters a couple of days later, regardless of if you scratch.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things that can attract fire ants:
\n\n\n\nSince fire ants prefer warm, sunny weather, they are most active during the summer. When the weather is cooler in the fall and winter, fire ants are less of a pest problem.
\n\n\n\nOne thing you can do if you see a mound is to leave it alone and call a professional exterminator. According to Virginia Tech, eliminating fire ants takes training and equipment that most homeowners do not have. Treating these terrors with the wrong pest control method can lead to an increased infestation.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, mounds are not the only indicator of an infestation, which makes fire ants hard to kill. This is another reason to call a pest control company. They can give you a thorough inspection. But if you insist on doing it yourself, here are some things you can do:
\n\n\n\nThese two methods are considered to be the most effective when applied together:
\n\n\n\nYou can reduce your chances of getting fire ants by:
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Erturac / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nIt’s hard to see fleas, but if you’ve ever been bitten by one, you know it doesn’t take seeing to be a believer. The most common flea in Virginia is the cat flea. Cat fleas do not discriminate, they bite dogs and humans, too. Fleas have flattened bodies and no wings.
\n\n\n\nSome tell-tale signs that you have fleas are itching or scratching. Flea bites can cause small red bumps. Since fleas are usually carried by pets, here are some signs you may notice on your pets.
\n\n\n\nFleas get into your yard by jumping onto mammals and wildlife that then carry the fleas to your property. Fleas love to breed in thatch. They also like to make a habitat out of piles of wood and leaves and hide in tall grass.
\n\n\n\nFleas love to make an appearance in the warmer months, during the spring and summer. But they can survive indoors during the colder winter months.
\n\n\n\nThe best treatment is prevention. Since fleas are often transported to homes by way of wildlife, reduce the chances you’ll attract wildlife by:
\n\n\n\nBecause fleas travel on pets, if you have pets:
\n\n\n\n![\"An](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6980305991_3209cd81a6_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sid Mosdell / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWe’re used to seeing a bee or wasp every now and then. But when you have a wasp’s nest or other signs of a wasp infestation, it’s time to do something about it. Wasps are typically more aggressive than bees, and wasps look different.
\n\n\n\nThere are several wasp species, and they differ in physical characteristics and where they build their nests. Wasps include hornets and yellow jackets, which have brown bodies and yellow stripes. Some wasps have a shiny look, like mud daubers, or dark wings, like red wasps. For those allergic to wasp stings, this pest problem could lead to death if the allergic person is stung.
\n\n\n\nIf you have several wasps flying around a specific area, you may have an infestation. Another obvious clue is seeing a wasp’s nest. Different species build their nests in different locations. You may find wasp nests in sheds, porch ceilings, garages, vegetation, doorways, trees, or barns.
\n\n\n\nWasps like loud clothing, good-smelling people, and potlucks. In other words, wasps are attracted to bright colors, strong smells, and food, especially sugary items. Open garbage cans may attract wasps, as can open compost bins.
\n\n\n\nWasps like to show up in the spring and fall.
\n\n\n\nRemoving a wasp’s nest can be dangerous. No one will blame you if you seek professional pest control services.
\n\n\n\nUsing professional services can give you the peace of mind of knowing the problem has been eradicated. Professionals can also inspect the outside and inside of your home and find things you cannot. If you have nests hiding underground, inside of walls, or in the attic, professionals can locate and exterminate the wasps.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things you can do on your own if the pest problem seems like it can be handled with a little DIY magic.
\n\n\n\nYou can be proactive and reduce your chances of attracting wasps by keeping garbage and food sealed. You can also keep vegetation around your home trimmed.
\n\n\n\n![\"alot](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/termites-g5c89ceef5_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nDid you know that every year homeowners fork out over two billion dollars to treat termites? Termites have caused significant damage to homes by chewing through wooden support beams, flooring, and other materials.
\n\n\n\nVirginia Beach is victim to many different species of termites, including the most common type, subterranean termites. These little insects resemble ants. They’re usually brown, black, or yellow. They live in colonies, but you usually won’t ever see them. You will, unfortunately, eventually see the damage they cause.
\n\n\n\nHollow-sounding wood or buckling floors or walls are some signs of termites. Mud tubes are also an indication. Termites travel through mud tubes or mud tunnels to access food and water. You may find mud tunnels in your home’s foundation and concrete walls. Another symptom of termites is seeing wings around entry points like doors and windows.
\n\n\n\nTermites are attracted to moisture. They are also attracted to situations where wood has come into contact with the soil, so they love wood that is decaying or damaged by water. Termites will invade wooden decks or porches in these conditions. These pests are also attracted to decks or porches that were built with poorly treated or untreated wood.
\n\n\n\nTermites also chew their way into homes when they perceive there is an availability of food.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, termites are active year-round. They are most active in the warmer spring and summer months.
\n\n\n\nA recurring theme of this article is prevention. Here are some things you can do to reduce your chances of a termite pest problem:
\n\n\n\nIn many cases, termiticides, which are what the pesticides for termites are called, can only be administered by a professional. Some EPA-approved treatments are termite baits, wood treatments, and termiticides applied to the soil. If you’ve purchased a pesticide, only use it if the label specifically says it can be used on termites. An active infestation is best handled by professionals.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eran Finkle / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhat purpose cockroaches have in the ecosystem is probably a mystery to many people. Regardless of any usefulness cockroaches may have, when you see one, you want to make sure you never see another one. They carry several diseases, like cholera and Typhoid fever.
\n\n\n\nIf you see one roach, move quickly to get rid of them. Seeing one means there are probably many more hiding.
\n\n\n\nTwo of the types of cockroaches that terrorize Virginia Beach residents are German cockroaches and American cockroaches. German cockroaches are small and light brown. They’re usually located in bathrooms, kitchens, and other indoor areas where food and water are accessible.
\n\n\n\nAmerican cockroaches are reddish-brown and larger than German cockroaches. American cockroaches enjoy the outdoors more and are typically located in yards and gardens and other outdoor areas. They actually have wings. When they get tired of being outside, they hide in dark, moist places. They invade bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces.
\n\n\n\nIf you see these critters in your backyard, you want to act quickly to get rid of them. You may already have them in your home. Seeing one roach in your yard or anywhere in your home is an indication that you probably have many more hiding somewhere. You may see cockroach droppings around compost bins, pet food dishes, or garbage cans. Droppings are dark and small and look like pepper.
\n\n\n\nYou may find cockroach egg cases, which are typically brown and cylindrical shaped, in dark places in your yard. The cases may be in crevices and cracks or under leaves.
\n\n\n\nCockroaches shed their skins as they grow. You may see their translucent shells under leaf piles or in crevices in the yard.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, cockroach season is nearly every month of the year. The season is between March and December. That’s 10 months!
\n\n\n\nRoaches are hard to get rid of since they’re so good at hiding. Insecticides contain harmful chemicals. Some treatments, like aerosol sprays, will kill the roaches sprayed but not get rid of the infestation. It is recommended that you call a professional exterminator for the best results.
\n\n\n\nHere are some things homeowners can do to minimize the pest problem:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/47748266872_a0ca5cccea_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nStink bugs are typically found in gardens. They’re not known to be dangerous to humans, but they can ruin your plants. They feed on a variety of plants, and they cause the most damage to fruit, tomatoes, okra, and pecans. They pierce the plant’s surface and suck out its fluids. They alter the plant’s appearance and can weaken the plant. In severe cases, stink bugs can cause the plant to die.
\n\n\n\nStink bugs get their name because they emit a foul smell when threatened. They’re very small insects and are usually brown-colored. They have a shield-shaped or oval-shaped body, six legs, and antennae.
\n\n\n\nIf you see that your plants are damaged, you could have stink bugs. Since the bugs emit a foul odor when threatened, you may smell a strong and unpleasant odor. You may see them on walls, plants, or other areas in your backyard.
\n\n\n\nThey like the warmth, so if you have warm places in your yard, like piles of debris, they may be attracted to them. They also may gravitate to plants they feed on, like pepper and tomatoes. Stink bugs are attracted to cracks and gaps in your home that give them a way into the warmth during the winter weather.
\n\n\n\nThis pest problem usually occurs in the spring and summer.
\n\n\n\nIt’s an interesting fact that parasitic wasps, like the samurai wasp, naturally attack stink bug eggs. If you have both stink bugs and wasps, maybe the wasps can kill the stink bug eggs before you exterminate the wasps.
\n\n\n\nThese are a few suggestions for controlling stink bugs:
\n\n\n\nIf the bugs have invaded your home:
\n\n\n\n
The most commonly found stinging insects in Virginia Beach are:
Overseeding your lawn is a way to repair it. When you overseed you add new grass to your lawn. This stronger grass covers bare spots created by pests. Overseeding has other benefits, including:
Prevention is always best. However, even the most diligent efforts do not guarantee that you will not incur some unwanted critters and insects. Here are some things you can do to be proactive:
As long as there is an outdoors, there will be insects and critters. Our job is to do what we can to make sure these pests stay in their lane to protect ourselves and our loved ones and ensure these pests do not interrupt our quality of life.
\n\n\n\nWhile there may not be anything that is 100 percent guaranteed to avoid some of these pests, you can at least reduce your chances of an infestation. Now that you know what to look for, you can take measures to proactively guard against these pest problems.
\n\n\n\nA well-maintained lawn can deter pest invasion. For help maintaining your lawn so that you can spend more time strolling along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and less time worrying about pests, call a professional lawn care service.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Stink Bug / Pxfuel
\n","title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Virginia Beach, VA","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7804154302670623,"src":"/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/1789c/pxfuel.com-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/107df/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/293e9/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/f2cbb/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/1789c/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/c26c2/pxfuel.com-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/1dd6e/pxfuel.com-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/67b76/pxfuel.com-1.webp 320w,\n/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/8df11/pxfuel.com-1.webp 500w,\n/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/98a65/pxfuel.com-1.webp 800w,\n/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/1dd6e/pxfuel.com-1.webp 960w,\n/static/05e5c011f2b9e97c0f554959d043f845/3cc96/pxfuel.com-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Virginia Beach, VA | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Read to find out the worst backyard pests plaguing Virginia Beach homeowners, indicators that you have them, causes, and how to eliminate them."}}},{"node":{"id":"99ea82bf-aaf6-509f-9463-c6669c8a78ad","slug":"best-native-plants-phoenix","path":"/lawn-care/az/phoenix/best-native-plants-phoenix/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Most comfortable with soil under her fingernails, Amanda has an enthusiasm for gardening, agriculture, and all things plant-related. With a master's degree in agriculture and more than a decade of experience gardening and tending to her lawn, she combines her plant knowledge and knack for writing to share what she knows and loves.","name":"Amanda Shiffler","id":"458fa7a4-b709-56ae-8d79-9dc400e34ff1","path":"/author/amanda-shiffler/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0048ef20c97263b5f26951aa210d62c8?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"7fc32475-4c73-58a8-996f-8b8d79ba2450","name":"Arizona","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"90f74182-5f0d-5dd3-8d32-576a5a21d01d","name":"Phoenix","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/phoenix/"}],"date":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"When dealing with the challenging climate of the Southwest desert, the key to having a beautiful lawn and garden is working with plants naturally adapted to the hot, arid environment. You can’t expect lily of the valley, which needs moist soil, mild temperatures, and average humidity, to thrive in a dry, sun-baked climate. Thankfully, there […]
\n","content":"\nWhen dealing with the challenging climate of the Southwest desert, the key to having a beautiful lawn and garden is working with plants naturally adapted to the hot, arid environment. You can’t expect lily of the valley, which needs moist soil, mild temperatures, and average humidity, to thrive in a dry, sun-baked climate.
\n\n\n\nThankfully, there are excellent alternatives, ranging from cacti to shrubs and flowering perennials. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best native plants for your Phoenix landscape.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThe National Wildlife Federation describes a native plant as occurring “naturally in a particular region, ecosystem, or habitat without human introduction.” Simply put, it means a plant has been living in an area for as long as one can remember and wasn’t brought in from a different place. That being the case, you can be assured these species will grow successfully when planted in your yard at home.
\n\n\n\nSince these desert plants grow naturally in the Sonoran Desert region, they have many advantages.
\n\n\n\n![\"Fairy](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/fairy-dusters-renee-grayson-cc20.jpg\")
Commonly called false mesquite, the desert fairy duster has delicate, deep green tiny leaflets and vibrant red flowers resembling puffballs. It will keep its leaves year-round as an evergreen, but it may thin slightly during Phoenix’s rare “cold spells.” In most years, you’ll be rewarded with blooms the majority of the year that draw in hummingbirds, finches, and wrens.
\n\n\n\nDesert fairy duster thrives in areas where you may have struggled to grow anything. Especially those scorching hot spots in full sun right in front of a west-facing wall. There isn’t a spot in the desert landscape that the desert fairy duster considers too hot to grow in – just make sure you give it a little water when it’s overly hot and dry.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Small evergreen shrub
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Only during extended dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: No serious problems
\n\n\n\n![\"Tufted](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/tufted-evening-primrose-andrey-zharkikh-cc20.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrey Zharkikh / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nTufted evening primrose is known for its intoxicatingly fragrant flowers that open in the coolness of the evening and glow white until the sun rises. The process itself is a sight to behold. The 3 to four-inch white flowers open at dusk, shine brilliantly through the darkness, and fade to pink as they fold up when temperatures begin climbing in the morning. Hairy, narrow gray-green leaves also fold up when hot to keep from losing moisture.
\n\n\n\nEven though the tufted evening primrose is native to the Sonoran Desert and needs very little water, with moderate irrigation, you’ll see a bounty of blooms all summer long. You’ll also see night-flying hawkmoths visit the flowers at night. They love the plant and are one of the few animals who can reach nectar that collects at the base of the tubular flowers.
\n\n\n\nLife Cycle: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 12 inches
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 2 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Dry, clay soils
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Low needs, but more water improves flowering
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: No serious problems
\n\n\n\n![\"Penstemon](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Penstemon_eatonii_-_firecracker_penstemon_-_51220511691-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe firecracker penstemon is an excellent addition to any Phoenix yard if you want winter color in February and March. Scarlet-red blooms open along tall bloom spikes in early to mid-spring, lasting four to six weeks.
\n\n\n\nThese flowering plants do best in sandy soils that drain well and love it if they get sun from the north, south, or east. Avoid fertilizing firecracker penstemon plants. They are known to “bloom themselves to death” when given adequate nutrients.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 15 inches
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Occasional watering in summer
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Susceptible to root rot
\n\n\n\n![\"Baileya](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Baileya_multiradiata_kz03-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe desert marigold adds color to your landscape from late winter to mid-spring with its impressive mounds of daisy-like bright yellow flowers. Plants may bloom the rest of the year intermittently with supplemental water. It grows much shorter than other plants on our list, making it a great accent plant or addition to your native wildflower garden.
\n\n\n\nThese attractive plants easily reseed themselves, helping to fill in bare spots over time. When desert marigolds are in full bloom, snip some stalks for a cut flower arrangement and bring the bright color inside.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 20 inches
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 4 to 12 inches
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Needs little water if winter rains are sufficient
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Root rot, crown rot
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/white-desert-plumbago-adrianna-moya-photography-cc20.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Adrianna Moya Photography / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe sprawling white desert plumbago is gaining popularity for its startlingly bright white flowers that pop against dramatically deep green evergreen foliage. These plants prefer part sun, which is surprising for a Sonoran Desert native, but their propensity for slight shade make them great for growing under trees or taller shrubs.
\n\n\n\nA low-maintenance, easy-going plant, the white desert plumbago tolerates various soils, and a little supplemental water promotes a showy flower display and lush foliar growth. You can also plant it along the edge of your yard if you’re looking for an innovative, informal living fence or hedge.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Evergreen shrub
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full to part sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Tolerates most soils
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: White fly
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Arizona-Poppy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Miwasatoshi / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe Arizona poppy is the only annual plant on this list, but it self-seeds, so new plants may germinate year after year if conditions are right. While not an actual poppy, it gets its name from its yellow-orange flowers that look like California poppies. It blooms prolifically from July to October in Phoenix.
\n\n\n\nPlant Arizona poppies as a groundcover in open spaces with room to spread and grow. An individual plant can easily reach three to five feet across, putting on a brilliant display in full bloom. The spectacular flowers attract birds; the seeds are an essential food source for doves and quail.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Summer annual
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 ½ to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Prefers light, well-drained, but tolerates all soils
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Supplemental light watering during dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: No serious problems
\n\n\n\n![\"Olneya_tesota\"](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Olneya_tesota-_leaves-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Thayne Tuason / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
\n\n\n\nIf you want to add shade to your yard and love the classic, twisted “desert tree” look, desert ironwood is a great choice! This slow-growing tree tolerates many different soils and can easily grow over 30 feet tall when given enough water. It is one of the few desert trees that doesn’t shed its leaves, providing light shade year-round.
\n\n\n\nDesert ironwoods bloom profusely in spring, displaying pinkish-purple flowers that look similar to the flowers on sweet peas. The extremely dense desert ironwood is culturally and ecologically important, serving as a staple in the Mexican carving trade.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Flowering tree
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 30 feet, but varies with irrigation
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 25 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Tolerates a variety of soils
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Periodic watering in the summer to help with vigor
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: No serious problems
\n\n\n\n![\"Chilopsis](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/735px-Chilopsis_linearis_flower_2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Stan Shebs / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the Southwestern United States, the desert willow is a great small tree for arid climates. This hardy tree handles temperatures down to 10°F and tolerates many soil types. In the summer (April through September or October), it is filled with trumpet-shaped pale pink, white, or purple flowers.
\n\n\n\nIt does form a weeping growth habit but isn’t related to the weeping willow common across other parts of the country. The desert willow is deciduous, which means it sheds leaves during the cooler winter months and isn’t as attractive as when in bloom. If you can handle the shocking transformation between seasons, having it in your garden when flowering is worthwhile.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Deciduous tree
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 15 to 35 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 25 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Tolerates a variety of soil types
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Some watering during summer to support foliage
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Root rot
\n\n\n\n![\"Muhlenbergia](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/800px-Muhlenbergia_rigens_form-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Stan Shebs / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDeer grass is a beautiful, easy-to-grow native bunchgrass with light silver-green to purple blades that pour out like a waterfall from the plant’s center. It prefers sandy or rocky soils but will grow anywhere that’s well-drained and receives at least eight hours of sun.
\n\n\n\nThese grasses make great landscape accent pieces. Long, arching flower panicles develop in spring and change from a creamy white to a straw color by late summer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Weekly or once every two weeks during summer
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: No serious problems
\n\n\n\n![\"Bull](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/18567782498_7d400b09e5_c-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Patrick Alexander / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBull grass is a classic-looking, coarse-textured desert grass that grows upwards of 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It prefers dry, well-drained soil, often growing on rocky ledges, slopes, and forest edges.
\n\n\n\nFrom June to November, the long blue-green leaves send up massive clumps of purplish flower spikes, which dry to a tannish color during winter. Bull grass’ fast-growing root system is fantastic for erosion control.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: Occasional during severe dry periods
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: No serious problems
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Saguaro.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nVery few plants say Arizona desert like the saguaro cactus! These plants grow very slowly when started from seed and easily live to be over 200 years old. If you’re looking for something that many generations will enjoy to come, the saguaro is a top choice.
\n\n\n\nOnce established, saguaros make a stunning focal point in Phoenix home landscapes as the largest cactus type in the United States. The mammoth, tree-like plant develops arm-shaped branches that bend upward to give it its iconic shape. Large specimens can have more than two dozen “arms.”
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Cactus
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 25 to 50 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: Up to 25 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: None after establishment
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Bacterial necrosis
\n\n\n\n![\"Hedgehog](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/hedgehog-cactus-brent-myers-cc20.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Brent Myers / Flickr / CC 2.0
\n\n\n\nMuch smaller than the saguaro, the hedgehog cactus is a low-growing succulent adorned with short, spiny stems resembling hedgehogs. Plants grow in clusters of up to 60 stems in sandy, rocky soils on exposed slopes and desert prairies. In March and April, all varieties of the cylindrical cacti display magnificent pink or purple blossoms. The flowers last about five days, opening in the morning and closing at night.
\n\n\n\nAfter flowing, the hedgehog cactus produces red-orange fruit whose fleshy white pulp tastes like strawberry. At first, sharp spines inhibit fruit picking, but as fruits mature and ripen, the spines fall off.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Cactus
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 12 inches
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 3 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full to part sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: None after establishment
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: Mealybugs, scale insects
\n\n\n\n![\"Rhus](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Rhus_ovata-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michael J. Plagens / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the foothills and mountains of the Southwest, sugar sumac (also called sugar bush) is commonly found growing in dry canyons and on exposed slopes. Prized for its deep green leathery evergreen leaves, this shrub is often used in parks and along freeways as a filler plant. Hence, it is an excellent choice if you have ample space in your yard you want to be filled with greenery.
\n\n\n\nPlants are resilient and easy to grow, reaching 10 feet tall in as little as three years. When sugar sumac is grown in residential gardens, it needs water only once a month to encourage small white flowers with red sepals to adorn the reddish twigs.
\n\n\n\nGrowth Habit: Evergreen shrub
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 6 to 15 feet
\n\n\n\nMature Width: 8 to 10 feet
\n\n\n\nSunlight Needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil Preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater Requirements: No irrigation needed in high elevations. In lower elevations, water infrequently but deeply.
\n\n\n\nDisease or Insect Problems: No serious problems in dry climates
\n\n\n\nAll of these native plants will do well in Phoenix with its hot temperatures and low rainfall, but you need to consider a couple of things.
\n\n\n\nWhat kind of soil are you working with?
\n\n\n\nPeople automatically think that since Phoenix is in the desert, it has sandy soil. The truth, though, is that you can find some sandy soils in the Valley, and you can also find heavy clay soils known as caliche.
\n\n\n\nThese caliche soils are almost cemented with calcium carbonate and do not drain well. If you have this type in your yard, you’ll need to avoid plants that need well-draining soil or are prone to root rot.
\n\n\n\nIs your yard in full sun, or are you planting in partial or full-shade spots?
\n\n\n\nThese native plants mostly prefer full sun and have excellent heat tolerance. If you have a spot shaded by your house, fence, or other plants at times during the day, white desert plumbago, bull grass, and hedgehog cactus can tolerate partial shade.
\n\n\n\nWhat size space are you working with?
\n\n\n\nWhen looking at plants, always consider their mature size, not their size when you buy them. You don’t want to move a plant that’s too big for the space after a few years.
\n\n\n\nBuying native plants is a great way to encourage sustainability, as they have naturally adapted to your local climate and growing conditions. When purchasing plants, though, it’s even better to try and find natives that were propagated and raised in your region. A plant may be native to the Sonoran desert, but if the seedling was grown elsewhere, it might not tolerate the hot summers.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for local plants, check out the following retailers, or contact the Phoenix chapter of the Arizona Native Plant Society or Maricopa County Cooperative Extension for more information.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDesert Foothills Gardens Nursery Inc.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhitfill Nursery
If you dream of a yard filled with native plants, but need a little help, reach out to our Phoenix lawn care pros! They can make your landscaping dreams come true and thrive in this challenging Valley of the Sun climate.
Main Image Credit: Pxfuel
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\n","content":"\nWeeds are like stealthy ninjas, gaining control of your lawn and bringing it to the brink of destruction. Even when you think you are doing everything right, diligently applying your pre-emergent herbicide and swooping in immediately to pull weeds that pop up in your lush Dallas lawn, these pesky invaders multiply before your eyes. Luckily, we compiled a list of the most common lawn weeds in Dallas, including tips on how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWeed Control Chemical Treatments
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike a good con man, weeds love a weak spot. These lawn invaders signify an underlying problem with your lawn’s health. They love low-nitrogen soils, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf. Maintain a healthy lawn with routine maintenance, watering, and fertilization schedules, and the weeds won’t stand a chance.
\n\n\n\nCheck out some reasons why weed control is so important:
\n\n\n\nThere are two ways to control weeds in your lawn: chemical treatments and hand pulling. Pulling weeds by hand is the safest removal method, but it isn’t always the best. Be sure to identify the type of weed you are dealing with before selecting your removal method.
\n\n\n\nExperts agree, hand weeding is just as important as chemical removal methods. You should aim to weed your yard and garden weekly or bi-weekly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Annual-Bluegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnnual bluegrass, also known as Poa annua, is an annual grass that reproduces with creeping stolons. It appears in late summer and lasts through fall. It has a dense, clumping growth pattern with serrated, boat-shaped leaves.
\n\n\n\nAnnual bluegrass grows rapidly, easily out-competing existing turfgrass. It is important to note this annual weed is adaptable and responds well to mowing, and it is used as turfgrass in commercial settings like golf courses.
\n\n\n\nAnnual bluegrass is best controlled using a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall and responding to follow-up growth with a post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefers disturbed, cultivated soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nKnown as Texas thistle in Dallas, bull thistle is a broadleaf biennial, meaning it takes two years to complete its life cycle when left undisturbed. It blooms dark-pink, prickly flowers, and puffy seed heads spread in the air for germination like dandelions.
\n\n\n\nSpray Texas thistle with post-emergent herbicide after it flowers, usually in early to late spring. Don’t worry if you have to come back and spray the pesky weed again. It can take several applications to get rid of the hardy biennial completely.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf biennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; prickly flowers, mildly toxic to humans and livestock
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Common-Chickweed.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Lazaregagnidze / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nCommon chickweed appears during North Texas winters. Star-shaped white flowers bloom in low-growing mats of leaves. The broadleaf annual stands up to mowing well, making it difficult to get rid of.
\n\n\n\nIt is an edible weed and is often fed to poultry. Chickweed thrives in moist, shaded areas. Removal methods include pulling the weed by hand, being sure you get the root system and spraying pre-emergent herbicide in early spring.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, shady lawns and gardens, especially near buildings
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; edible but large quantities cause stomach irritation in humans
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCrabgrass thrives in the Dallas summer. This annual grassy weed prefers dry soil. Its blades and leaf sheaths are covered by dense hairs that irritate the skin, and the high stalks steal valuable nutrients from your turfgrass.
\n\n\n\nIt reproduces quickly and grows faster than your lawn. Crabgrass loves the sun and overtakes thin lawns. Think twice before cutting your grass extremely short to lessen your mowing frequency, as the fast-growing weed will overtake it quickly.
\n\n\n\nThe best method to get rid of crabgrass is to use a pre-emergent herbicide and maintain a healthy and dense lawn with routine fertilization and a consistent watering schedule.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Sparse, disturbed habitats like thin lawns, gardens, vacant lots, roads, and grass paths
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide, and routine lawn maintenance
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Creeping-Charlie.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCreeping Charlie, or ground ivy in Texas, is a broadleaf perennial herb. Its distinguishable scalloped leaves and clusters of purple flowers pop up in the spring and quickly spread, or creep, to form a dense green carpet.
\n\n\n\nThe minty-smelling weed loves unhealthy, patchy grass, low-fertility soils, and shady spots. The best way to unfriend this herb isn’t to ignore it. Instead, maintain your lawn’s pH levels by following a regular fertilization plan and use post-emergent broadleaf herbicide to eliminate the pest.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, shaded locations
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; toxic to horses in large quantities
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide, regular fertilization schedule
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dallisgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nDallisgrass is a warm-season perennial grass that loves to invade Texas turfgrass, especially bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass. It is aggressive and difficult to control thanks to multiple reproductive methods, including seeds, rhizomes, and stolons. Dallisgrass has a clumped, circular appearance with rough edges.
\n\n\n\nProper lawn maintenance is the best line of defense against this aggressive grassy weed. It also responds well to hand pulling and pre-emergent herbicides in the spring.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; prefers moist disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; non-toxic but susceptible to ergot fungus, which is toxic to livestock and horses
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Routine lawn maintenance, pre-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nDandelions seem like fun when you are a kid, but they turn into nightmares when you own your own lawn. These perennials behave like annuals and are a broadleaf weed. Dandelions pop up in the Dallas spring, beginning with their trademark bright yellow flowers before turning into light, puffy helicopter blade seeds that want nothing more than to be airborne.
\n\n\n\nDandelions have a taproot that grows vertically downward between 6 to 18 inches deep. Unfortunately, removing the entire dandelion by hand is next to impossible, and the best removal method is a broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; prefer disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; edible but may cause irritation in some people
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hairy-Bittercress.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHairy bittercress thrives in moist environments, popping up after early spring rains with blooms of tiny white flowers. The annual’s flowers turn into pods, dispersing seeds to propagate the plant. Post-emergent weed control is the best method to manage hairy bittercress before the seeds disperse.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Cultivated and open ground, rocks, and walls
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Miltos Gikas / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHenbit is a cool-season broadleaf annual with square branching stems. It is hairy with circular leaves and purple flowers. It spreads aggressively in the North Texas winters. Thankfully, it has shallow roots and responds well to hand pulling and pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; prefers disturbed lawns, pastures, gardens, nursery plots, and building edges
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Júlio Reis / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nPurslane is a low-growing succulent and broadleaf annual weed. It loves the rocky soil of North Texas, thriving in between cracks. It is adaptable and will easily encroach on turfgrass. Purslane is drought and heat-tolerant, surviving hot Dallas summers.
\n\n\n\nPurslane grows through spreading in a matted web. It has purple stems, alternating oval leaves, and yellow flowers. The best method to control purslane is hand pulling, ensuring you remove the whole root system.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeevan Jose, Kerala, India / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNutsedge, “the world’s worst weed,” is a perennial sedge weed with a triangular stem. It is drought-tolerant but prefers moist, undrained Texas soil. It grows faster than turfgrass and thrives in warm weather before going dormant in cool weather, only to pop up again when it warms back up.
\n\n\n\nTreat nutsedge with post-emergent herbicide and ensure your lawn is thick and healthy, being sure to fix drainage issues. Left unattended, the sedge perennial will thrive in bare spots, coming back year after year.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Sedge perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, poorly drained soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nQuackgrass sounds made up, but this perennial grass loves the Texas fall and winter seasons. It out-competes turfgrass and other weeds, spreading in large clumps with rhizomes. Quackgrass has coarse blades and resembles wheat.
\n\n\n\nPull quackgrass by hand, being sure to remove the roots. The perennial grass also responds well to spot treatment using post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Perennial grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist areas
\n\n\n\nDanger: Noxious; quickly overtakes fields and crops
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Spotted-Spurge.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nEven though spotted spurge is a broadleaf annual, it is a nuisance. Like dandelions, this resilient weed has a long taproot which seemingly brings this zombie weed back from the dead. Spurge grows fast, and its tangled web of leaves spreads low. It loves dry, Texas soil and sun.
\n\n\n\nPull spotted spurge by hand, but be sure to wear gloves. The zombie plant exudes a skin-irritating milky sap. This annual responds well to pre-emergent herbicide, or you can opt for a post-emergent herbicide if your spurge has already bloomed.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; prefer sunny, dry, disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; irritating milky sap
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent, post-emergent, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"large](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lawn Weeds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhite clover is another broadleaf perennial like dandelions that loves Dallas yards. It thrives in sparse turfgrass, blooming white flowers in the summer. Clover typically signals low nitrogen levels in your soil.
\n\n\n\nTo remove the pesky good-luck charm, douse it with iron-based herbicides. You can also weed them by hand, taking care to remove their root systems.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Broadleaf perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Nitrogen-poor, grassy habitats
\n\n\n\nDanger: Toxic; damaged leaf tissues release cyanide
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent, iron-based herbicide and hand removal
\n\n\n\nSelective herbicides control specific weeds or weed families.
Non-selective herbicides are typically more potent than selective herbicides. They work on many weeds, including grassy and broadleaf. However, they also wipe out good vegetation and turfgrass. These heavy-duty herbicides are best left to the professionals.
Perennial weeds are the toughest to control thanks to their underground reproductive systems, including rhizomes and tubers. These weeds regrow season after season. Perennial weeds include clover, spotted spurge, dandelion, crabgrass, and chickweed. The best method to prevent perennial weeds from returning is hand weeding, ensuring you remove the entire root system.
Weeds are a nuisance, and no matter how diligent you are, they will pop up in your yard. The best defense against an invasion is a healthy lawn. There are many low-maintenance landscaping options available for Dallas, including weed-controlling mulch, and be sure to check out our list of the best native plants that will thrive in your Texas landscape.
\n\n\n\nIf you need some help killing weeds before your next backyard barbecue, contact a Dallas lawn care pro today to keep your lawn healthy year-round.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Leonora (Ellie) Enking / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"14 Worst Lawn Weeds in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1789c/Lawn-Weeds.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/107df/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 320w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/293e9/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 500w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/f2cbb/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 800w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1789c/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 960w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/c26c2/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1dd6e/Lawn-Weeds.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/67b76/Lawn-Weeds.webp 320w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/8df11/Lawn-Weeds.webp 500w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/98a65/Lawn-Weeds.webp 800w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1dd6e/Lawn-Weeds.webp 960w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/3cc96/Lawn-Weeds.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"14 Worst Lawn Weeds in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Weeds are common in Dallas thanks to the Texas sun and warm weather. Get rid of them with a few simple tips."}}},{"node":{"id":"c2be73f5-a5c8-50cf-b404-fa93b89f40da","slug":"xeriscaping-ideas-colorado","path":"/lawn-care/co/xeriscaping-ideas-colorado/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Descendant of the Fulani tribe, Gettysburg-obsessed Marine Corps brat, and lover of all things writing and editing, Andréa Butler has penned articles for Sesi magazine and sites, such as LivingSocial, Talbot Digital, Xickle, and Rachel Ray. Andréa holds a B.A. in English from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and an M.A. in magazine journalism from Kent State University.","name":"Andréa Butler","id":"dae2e109-3ba9-5073-a19a-e341e567190e","path":"/author/andrea-butler/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c671545b46efb40d2596d32a775f26a1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"be8bb3a1-b40c-57ba-87f7-ff69490271a0","name":"Colorado","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 27th, 2023","excerpt":"When you hear the words “thirst trap,” the first thing you think of is an outdoor space filled with high-maintenance turfgrass and water-guzzling non-native plants. Avoid these pitfalls on your own property by pivoting to a more sustainable, low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape. Here, we’ll help you get started with six xeriscaping ideas for your Colorado yard. […]
\n","content":"\nWhen you hear the words “thirst trap,” the first thing you think of is an outdoor space filled with high-maintenance turfgrass and water-guzzling non-native plants. Avoid these pitfalls on your own property by pivoting to a more sustainable, low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape. Here, we’ll help you get started with six xeriscaping ideas for your Colorado yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nCoined right here in the Buffalo Plains State by Denver Water back in 1981, “xeriscaping” is a fancy way of saying “dry landscaping.” Contrary to popular belief, though, a xeriscaped yard can be so much more than just rocks, sand, and cacti — there’s a wealth of drought-tolerant flowers, shrubs, trees, and grasses you can also use.
\n\n\n\nBefore converting your current landscape design into a sustainable xeriscape, familiarize yourself with the seven principles of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-mist-penstemon.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dave Powell, USDA FS, bugwood.org / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNot only do indigenous plants help control erosion, reduce pesticide usage, and provide food and shelter to wildlife and pollinators, but native species also come adapted to local soil and weather conditions, which contributes to their natural ability to conserve water, requiring less of it due to their deep roots.
\n\n\n\nAs Colorado is known to have a semi-arid climate, choosing to fill your front yard and backyard with water-wise greenery is the perfect way to sustain a low-maintenance, eco-friendly landscape without sacrificing curb appeal.
\n\n\n\nCheck out some of the top native plants for Colorado xeriscapes:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nOther (non-native) drought-resistant plants include:
\n\n\n\n![\"Tiny](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tiny-lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: welcomia / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAttached to the look and feel of the lawn you’ve worked so hard to perfect? No worries; you don’t have to eliminate it completely in order to embrace a revamped, xeriscaped front yard. Instead, shrink the size of your turfgrass allotment to reduce water needs and mowing time.
\n\n\n\nIn the empty space that remains, consider adding texture and variety with garden beds and mulched areas surrounding accent plants, ornamental grasses, or decorative statuary. Or, if you want to think bigger, go ahead and replace what remains of your traditional, high-maintenance, water-loving Kentucky bluegrass with a native selection like blue gramma or buffalograss.
\n\n\n\nA few other examples of Colorado native grasses include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of cutting back on turfgrass:
\n\n\n\n![\"Woolly](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woolly-Thyme-in-bloom.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Patrick Standish / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnother sustainable turfgrass replacement, xeric groundcovers will transform your property from low-mow to no-mow. Drought-tolerant and easy to care for, these low-growing plant selections work especially well on hard-to-mow sloped land. Homeowners can employ a set it and forget it watering routine by installing a drip irrigation system that will send water to roots in small amounts.
\n\n\n\nTry these choice groundcovers for your Colorado landscape:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\n![\"Outdoors](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Outdoors-Kitchen-with-Built-In-gas-grill-on-a-deck.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ivanastar / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn The Centennial State, sunshine is plentiful, temperatures are milder, and overall, precipitation is occasional — making the environment optimal for living it up outdoors. But even when you can’t make a trip to kayak down the South Platte River in Denver, hike in Montrose’s Black Canyon National Park, or explore the Garden of the Gods, you can still take in Colorful Colorado’s unparalleled scenery from the comfort of your own outdoor oasis.
\n\n\n\nAnother water conservation method, hardscaping can transform your backyard into an entertainment mecca. To add to your existing patio, start with a simple DIY project like building a fire pit or laying a walkway. Suitable for a smaller outdoor space, fire pits add immediate ambiance by brightening things up and adding warmth on a chilly night. A brick paver walkway can also make your xeriscape pop with color and texture. Run it through the middle of your new landscape design, bordering it with succulents, trees, shrubs, and native perennials.
\n\n\n\nOther hardscape ideas:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\n![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-garden-pebbles.jpg\")
Photo Credit: LookTarn / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile Colorado’s low precipitation levels make it easy to enjoy the outdoors uninterrupted, on the flip side, the lack of rain means homeowners must rely on supplemental water — 50% of potable water, in fact — to keep lawns lush and gardens in bloom. Switching from traditional grass and flower beds to xeriscape-approved rock gardens can vastly improve water savings.
\n\n\n\nWell-suited for sloped land, rock gardens can also act as hardscape borders. When creating your rock garden, stick to the same type of rock throughout — native granite is a popular pick. Varying rock shape and size can help create contrast and visual interest. Rock gardens don’t have to include plants, but doing so will boost the aesthetic appeal even more. Make sure the soil is well-drained and opt for diverse flowers, shrubs, succulents and groundcovers.
\n\n\n\nA few recommended rock garden plants are:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of rock gardens:
\n\n\n\n![\"Drip](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-irrigation.jpg\")
Photo Credit: F. D. Richards / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA staple of water-wise landscaping, drip irrigation provides hydration to plants a little at a time. More effective than sprinkler systems (according to the Colorado State University extension, sprinklers are 50% to 70% efficient, while drip irrigation is more than 90% efficient), drip irrigation works via a system of plastic tubes that gradually deliver small amounts of water to plants.
\n\n\n\nInstallation can be DIY, or to ensure everything is done properly, homeowners can hire a local landscaping pro to do the job. Get the most of this irrigation system by grouping plants according to their water needs.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of drip irrigation:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping include:
• Reduced water usage
• Low-maintenance yard work
• Prioritizes native plants
• Decreases need for fertilization/pesticides
Yes! In fact, in 2021, Colorado passed House Bill 21-1229, which forbids homeowners’ associations from barring xeriscapes and artificial turfgrass, among other sustainable solutions.
In Colorado, the best time to xeriscape tends to be during the fall months. Experts reason this is because plants are dormant this time of year, giving them several months to establish deep roots in preparation for warmer weather and potential drought conditions come spring and summer. Another reason experts give? Autumn isn’t the busy season for landscaping and buying plants, meaning prices may be cheaper and landscapers may be more available for help.
In the beginning, your newly xeriscaped yard may take a lot of effort — from removing turfgrass to replacing non-native plants in beds and borders with native ones to installing new hardscaping. If you thrive on outdoor work and can’t wait to get your hands dirty, a DIY xeriscape job may be the budget-friendly option for you.
\n\n\n\nIf, as part of your xeriscape plans you decide to maintain a small patch of grass for your kids and pets to play on, be sure it’s on flat land that is easy to irrigate and mow. Of course, you don’t have to mow the grass yourself, just use WikiLawn to locate and hire a lawn care expert near you to do that for you. WikiLawn can connect you with pros in Aurora, Colorado Springs, and many other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Xeriscape Demonstration Garden in Denver, Colorado / Jeffrey Beall / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
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