![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wsyWaNxHqYBeUaAbl5kz5co7zu7cbOq7EMc-Vl81_F8sFtovjYES3DWdUQhHINjkZNwuLhI19kgLJDnKYC9j9vwNzmSE7Cdu2tsvTrgfbtpHsm5mwk9-J84fZ8jK9oK-zRKLqcVK\")
Many critters can compromise your lawn, but some are more insidious than others. The following is a guide to the worst backyard pests in Richmond, Va., and how to manage them.
\n","content":"\nRichmond is blessed with mild winters and four mellow seasons that make enjoying the outdoors possible for most of the year. Of course, the lack of hard freezes and the green environment are an open invitation to all backyard pests. Many critters can compromise your lawn, but some are more insidious than others. The following is a guide to the worst backyard pests in Richmond and how to manage them.
\n\n\n\nTrue to their name, these pests will feed in large numbers on all varieties of turf, moving in waves like an army, under cover of night. These caterpillars are most prevalent after a cool, wet spring when gray moths lay their eggs after the sun goes down. Resist the urge to apply chemical pesticides right away: your first line of defense is natural predators. A pheromone trap can track the arrival of moths, at which point you should begin inspecting your grass for signs of eggs and worms. Releasing beneficial nematodes can help to control any outbreaks. Applying BT (a natural caterpillar control) to the lawn will also help nip any infestation in the bud.
\n\n\n\nAn accidental import from South America, fire ants know how to put an end to relaxing times in the yard. They’ll bite and sting anything that imposes on their mounds. Their colonies damage yards and wreak havoc on ecosystems. Combatting fire ants is a pastime for many Southerners, but if you control them early, you can avoid making a lifestyle out of ant control. The two-step method is the most effective approach to ridding your lawn of this horrendous pest. You start by spreading a bait insecticide over your entire yard in the fall. You then treat the individual mounds with a granule or dust insecticide.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs are the bane of Kentucky bluegrass, bentgrass, Bermudagrass, perennial ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass. They feed on all these grass types. They’re among the worst backyard pests in Richmond in hot, dry areas with a thick layer of thatch. Patches of grass will turn yellow and then brown in the heat of the sun. The best defense against chinch bugs? A healthy lawn, mowed to the recommended height, aerated, and properly watered and fertilized. You can treat small infestations with insecticidal soap, but larger issues need a dose of an organic or chemical insecticide.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/63LB03uylyiw_BQsJ0lzp5C52d9EuOdMwiHBuMuipusNI3JAhX0ojs9Ve27P3FFNnmzGJP4YPMvAjhj43XorQNAmYJBR9PpTBsmVJW4ROcYrH5PkqvPxNRvoQuLCC1ryKz9lEzfq\")
When brown spots begin to appear on an otherwise healthy lawn, it’s time to start looking for grubs. To diagnose a grub issue, find a piece of affected turf and try to lift it up. If it rolls up easily and lacks roots, then you know grubs are to blame. If you prefer taking a nontoxic approach to lawn care, you can use milky spore, nematodes, or insecticidal soap to kill the grubs in the soil. If your lawn is healthy, grubs will be less able to find purchase and take root. Start looking for the grubs in the spring, before they have time to multiply. Mow consistently and make sure you irrigate the right amount.
\n\n\n\nIf you find you have any of these pests invading your lawn, early detection is the best road to successfully wiping them out. Once an infestation is going full-bore, it’s much harder to get the upper hand. So, pay close attention to your turf and keep your Richmond yard healthy to stay a step ahead in the pest prevention game.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about lawn care and landscaping? Visit our Richmond, Va., lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
Phoenix residents are actively seeking to preserve the natural landscape and its native plants. In addition to helping sustain our environment, these plants thrive in an arid climate and surround our homes with bursts of color and artistic shapes. Some native varieties are great plants to plant around a pool as well. We are spotlighting five native […]
\n","content":"\nPhoenix residents are actively seeking to preserve the natural landscape and its native plants. In addition to helping sustain our environment, these plants thrive in an arid climate and surround our homes with bursts of color and artistic shapes. Some native varieties are great plants to plant around a pool as well. We are spotlighting five native plants from the dozens that can decorate our outdoor spaces.
\n\n\n\nThis sprawling perennial also known as plumbago scadens is showing up in more and more Phoenix gardens. The flowers, a startlingly bright white, are quite dramatic against the deep green of the foliage. The leaves are long and lance-shaped, a deep red as new growths, then green when they mature. They return to red during the fall and winter.
\n\n\n\nIn Phoenix, the white desert plumbago prefers filtered or partial shade, which is pretty quirky for a native of the Sonoran Desert. It’s an easygoing plant all around: It’ll grow under trees or taller shrubs; climb fences, walls or trellises; or cascade from containers or hanging baskets. Plant them along the perimeter of your yard for an innovative and informal hedge.
\n\n\n\nTufted evening primrose is a low-growing perennial with fragrant flowers that open at dusk, glowing white through the night, and then fade to pink and fold in the morning heat. The hairy, narrow leaves are gray-green on top and blue-gray underneath. They also fold up in the heat to retain moisture.
\n\n\n\nLike all native plants in Phoenix, the tufted evening primrose needs little water. However, if you water it moderately, you’ll be rewarded with flowers all summer. The flower’s petals are held above the base of the flower by a long tube that collects nectar. Night-flying hawkmoths love the plant. Their long, coiled tongues stretch far enough to reach the nectar.
\n\n\n\nPlant near a patio or porch so that you can view the fascinating transitions in the evening and early morning hours.
\n\n\n\n![\"Feather](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/feather-bush-brian-ralphs-cc20.jpg\")
Also known as fern of the desert, the heat and sun-loving feather bush is a single- or multi-trunk tree that can reach a height of 12 to 15 feet and spreads to widths of up to 15 feet. Clusters of fragrant, creamy white puffballs bloom in early spring amid long, lacy leaves that resemble graceful green feathers.
\n\n\n\nPlant the feather bush around a pool or pond if you want to simulate an oasis, group it to create a natural privacy screen or bring a tropical ambiance to a patio or entryway. Wherever you plant it, you will be captivated by the colorful butterflies fluttering among the flowers and foliage.
\n\n\n\nAlso known as false mesquite, the fairy duster’s vibrant red flowers bloom most of the year, and in some areas, all year. The striking flower is actually spiky stamens that form puffballs. The delicate leaves are a deep green composed of tiny leaflets.
\n\n\n\nIt’s an evergreen but may thin out during those very rare “cold spells” in Phoenix. But there is no such thing as “too hot.” Plant it where you’ve not been able to grow anything, such as in the full sun against a west-facing wall. You can plant it in partial shade, but you will not have anywhere near as many blooms. Hummingbirds flock to the shrub. Watch closely and you’ll also see some finches, wrens, and verdins.
\n\n\n\nThe hedgehog cactus is a low-growing succulent with short, spiny stems that resemble hedgehogs. All varieties of the cactus have magnificent blossoms that last five days in shades of pink or purple. They open in the morning and close at night.
\n\n\n\nOnce the flowering is complete, the plant produces edible red-orange fruit with a fleshy white pulp that tastes like strawberry. At first, the fruit looks too dangerous to pick — the stems are densely covered with sharp spines, but the spines fall off as the fruit matures.
\n\n\n\nEven though the hedgehog cactus grows in sandy, rocky soil, and full sunlight, it also does well indoors near a sunny window.
\n\n\n\nFeature image source: Alan Levine / CC 2.0
\n","title":"5 Native Plants for Easy Gardening in Phoenix, AZ","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/1789c/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/107df/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.jpg 320w,\n/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/293e9/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.jpg 500w,\n/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/f2cbb/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.jpg 800w,\n/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/1789c/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.jpg 960w,\n/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/356ef/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/1dd6e/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/67b76/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.webp 320w,\n/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/8df11/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.webp 500w,\n/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/98a65/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.webp 800w,\n/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/1dd6e/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.webp 960w,\n/static/b11e770742245b817539c59bb4c24efd/93f70/rsz_all-arizona-prickly-pear-cactus-lake-cc20.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Native Plants for Easy Gardening in Phoenix, AZ | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"7afd625a-0d74-5637-99ee-b850a6d114f0","slug":"worst-pests-columbus","path":"/lawn-care/oh/columbus/worst-pests-columbus/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5eab8b19-684d-573f-929d-53dda702846c","name":"Columbus","count":9,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/columbus/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"August 12th, 2019","excerpt":"You look forward to it all year long: backyard barbecue season. But the bugs really put a damper on things — especially in Central Ohio where heat, humidity, and rain attract the worst pests in Columbus. Mosquitos, stinkbugs, ticks, crickets, and other creepy-crawly things love to call Columbus home. And they love to make […]
\n","content":"\nYou look forward to it all year long: backyard barbecue season. But the bugs really put a damper on things — especially in Central Ohio where heat, humidity, and rain attract the worst pests in Columbus.
\n\n\n\nMosquitos, stinkbugs, ticks, crickets, and other creepy-crawly things love to call Columbus home. And they love to make themselves at home in your backyard. Along with proper lawn care, there are some ways to curtail the worst pests in Columbus. Learn how to get rid of them and control infestations.
\n\n\n\nThese bloodsuckers are part of every backyard. Bats and some birds are natural predators, but some people are more freaked out by the idea of a bat house. Insect repellants with DEET or Picaridin are effective in warding off the little buggers. Citronella candles are also helpful, although not as long-lasting.
\n\n\n\nAlong with vegetation, mosquitoes like moisture. They breed in stagnant water such as puddles, storm pipes, and rain buckets. Dump out standing water from buckets, old tires, and outdoor containers. Mosquito-repelling plants include marigolds, lavender, lemon eucalyptus, peppermint, chrysanthemums, and citronella.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll find these critters in most Columbus backyards, snacking on flowers and leaves of ornamental trees and shrubs. These bright metallic green insects appear in late June through September, and they’re tough to get rid of. If it’s a small infestation, you may be able to remove them by hand or use a pheromone trap. A word of warning: Those “bag a bug” methods tend to attract more insects than they catch. A neem or pyrethrin insecticide is often more effective.
\n\n\n\nNeem oil is an organic pesticide that controls a host of backyard bugs, including aphids, cabbage loopers, leafhoppers, scale, sawflies, chinch bugs, and spider mites.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/d6m8zouFNIdaVgNXK1wRhHkLhom97CrMMkPc4gRTzgPGPvFz8fUyYXv-shuB3UYDtxsV7xqBfRKi6F4Yxntb2ry0fJ4QLLnFdT5Ne0bUvr1dS2NOUq0DEnx-Mla6Nsisk8STOthU\")
These are the worst backyard pests in Columbus if you’re sensitive to droning noise. You’ll hear them singing their trilling, ringing songs in Central Oho backyards from June until September. They feed off leaves, roots, and trees where the soil is moist but not too wet. Cicadas are often mistaken for locusts. Chemical treatments are usually not effective or necessary. If you really want to get rid of cicadas, spray a garden hose into trees and shrubs to knock the insects out of them. Protect plants with sticky tape or netting to prevent cicadas from feeding or laying eggs.
\n\n\n\nColumbus and Central Ohio have its share of backyard pests and the list is rather daunting.
\n\n\n\nSoapy water helps to remove small numbers of aphids, mealybugs, and thrips. For higher populations, insecticidal soap or pesticides are more suitable. You can make an eco-friendly bug spray with soap, oil, and water.
\n\n\n\nDifficult to control with ordinary pesticides but insecticidal soap works on some of the immature larvae.
\n\n\n\n![\"Caterpillar,](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/21AG80_bT15o-L7m9aCvdufz636l9K8xhW8zovdN38s-WJqUXWHsWPfnZdNpPz339kyN3vxMa32c11B1jmw11t2NxcZly7n_js5Rc8QfVglCKnNVqc-266qGo_lw3CZlJh9EBGAf\")
Registered pesticides are best for these insects, with the granules applied directly to the soil.
\n\n\n\nAphids have a lot of natural backyard predators (lady beetles and lacewings, etc.). You can also control them with insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and strong jets of water.
\n\n\n\nThere is no magic cure to get rid of all backyard insects. The Ohio State University Extension calls it integrated pest management — a process to minimize damage. Pesticides, whether they’re organic or chemical, can sometimes kill the beneficial insects. These are the bugs that eat the worst backyard pests in Columbus.
\n\n\n\nYou can squash the bug problem by choosing disease-controlled and insect-resistant plants and trees. Keep in mind, native plants have built up resistance to the bugs over the years. Keep your grass mowed and weed-free, so the pests have no place to hide or nest.
\n\n\n\nNeed more information about lawn care in Columbus and Central Ohio? Check out our Columbus Lawn Care page.
Virginia is known for its hot summers and moderately cold winters, so you may often choose to stay home and relax in your own backyard. Whether it’s playing lawn games or having a family barbecue, it won’t be as memorable on a brown, grim-looking turfgrass. By examining the best grass types for Virginia, the only […]
\n","content":"\nVirginia is known for its hot summers and moderately cold winters, so you may often choose to stay home and relax in your own backyard. Whether it’s playing lawn games or having a family barbecue, it won’t be as memorable on a brown, grim-looking turfgrass. By examining the best grass types for Virginia, the only words to describe your lawn will be healthy and luscious green.
\n\n\n\nAlong with having several plant hardiness zones, Virginia is divided into 5 regions that include Piedmont and Tidewater. It also lies in the transition zone, so there’s never one definitive answer to which grass seed will thrive in your area. Northern parts of the state are more suitable for cool-season grasses, while cities in the Coastal Plain area are better suited for warm-season grasses. The upcoming section will highlight the best types of grasses for every major part of your beloved state.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith a wide variety of grass types to choose from, it is important to distinguish between warm- and cool-season grass. Here are some of their main differences:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. During the winter, warm-season grasses will turn brown and become dormant. They have low frost-tolerance, enjoy high temperatures, and require less water than cool-season grasses. Warm-season grasses include Zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They are able to tolerate frost, lower light, and lower temperatures than warm-season grasses. They can stay green throughout the winter, especially in transition zones like Virginia. Cool-season turfgrasses include tall fescue, creeping red fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a bunch-type grass known for its adaptability to a wide range of climates. It is suitable for northern and southern transition zones. This grass type germinates quicker than other cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass. Additionally, tall fescue has a deep root system, giving it a superior heat and drought tolerance. One downside to this grass is that it grows in clumps, limiting its capacity to self-repair when damage occurs.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue grass can thrive in almost every region across the state, such as Piedmont, Northern Virginia, Coastal Plain, and Southwestern Virginia.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-4.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nOf all the warm-season grasses, zoysiagrass is one of the best in tolerating cold temperatures. With several species and cultivars available, it is a suitable turfgrass for transition zones. It may establish slower than some other warm-season grasses, but will eventually form a dense carpet of grass beneath your feet. You can overseed zoysia lawns with cool-season ryegrass for a green winter color. Overall, this grass type is perfect for families who enjoy lawn games and plenty of backyard activities.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant this grass seed anywhere in Virginia except for the Valley and Ridge region and Blue Ridge Mountains.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although, it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a self-spreading, sod-forming grass that is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to walk on barefoot. With an aggressive growth habit, it has an excellent capacity for self-repair. This makes Kentucky bluegrass an excellent choice for lawns that need to endure heavy foot traffic. This cool-season grass is not a good fit for shady lawns, so you might want to consider another shade-tolerant grass such as fine fescue.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a great choice for homeowners in Northern Virginia, Piedmont, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass has the fastest growing rate of all warm-season grasses. This helps it recover quickly from damage. Bermudagrass is more sensitive to cold than zoysiagrass, and flourishes in sites with full sun and good drainage. Overall, this turfgrass has excellent wear, drought, and salt tolerance.
\n\n\n\nIt’s important to mention that bermudagrass is not a good fit for shady lawns. If you need a shade-tolerant grass that tolerates foot traffic, zoysiagrass might be the better choice.
\n\n\n\nYou can successfully grow this grass seed if you live in Piedmont, Northern Virginia, Tidewater, and Southwestern Virginia.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid Bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common Bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is best adapted to regions with moderate temperatures throughout the year. It has the highest wear-tolerance of any cool-season grass, with the ability to tolerate heavy foot traffic. This grass species has a rapid germination rate, which makes it ideal for overseeding warm-season grasses. When winter creeps in, overseeding will help extend your lawn’s green period.
\n\n\n\nIf your family occasionally enjoys a few rounds of BucketBall, perennial ryegrass is a great option for your lawn. The Piedmont and Tidewater regions are the only parts of Virginia where this grass seed cannot thrive.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/St-Augustinegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nBeing the least cold-tolerant of all the warm-season grasses, St Augustinegrass grows best in areas that are not exposed to long periods of cold temperatures. It has an aggressive growth habit, but can easily be controlled around borders and flower beds. If you have a shady backyard, this species is the most shade-tolerant of all the warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nSt Augustinegrass has a fair tolerance to salt, making it suitable for the Coastal Plain area. It cannot thrive in any other part of Virginia, particularly the north, as it is very susceptible to winter injury.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate. It is the most shade tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 3.5 and 4 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is commonly known as “lazy man’s grass”, mainly because it requires less mowing and maintenance than other warm-season grasses. This grass species is not very wear-resistant and cannot withstand heavy foot traffic. Unlike other warm-season grasses, centipedegrass is unable to compete with other species, so overseeding with ryegrass is not recommended.
\n\n\n\nSimilar to St Augustinegrass, you can grow this grass seed only if you reside in the Tidewater region.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is one of the most fine-textured turfgrasses available. It has lower maintenance requirements than Kentucky bluegrass. If you decide to leave this grass unmowed, it will help create an attractive, dune-like appearance. It comes in a variety of species, including creeping red and chewings fescue. Taking the lead as the most shade-tolerant cool-season grass, fine fescue is a great choice if you have sycamore trees shading the lawn.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is often mixed with tall fescue to enhance performance in shady areas. If you live in the Valley and Ridge or Piedmont regions, fine-leaf grass seeds will be a suitable option for your lawn.
\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: Set mowing 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\nThe best grass types for Central Virginia include:
\n\n\n\nThe best grass type for Northern Virginia include:
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a great choice of turfgrass for your backyard in Tidewater. It is a warm-season grass with the ability to tolerate shade, drought, and heavy foot traffic. It performs well during the colder months and resists weed growth, with the only downside being that it recovers slowly from damage.
Tall fescue is an incredibly versatile grass that can grow in nearly every part of Virginia. Being a cool-season grass, it is a perfect fit for Shenandoah Valley. Even if temperatures rise higher than usual, tall fescue has deep root systems that make it drought- and heat-tolerant.
One of the good things about cool-season grasses is that they can be planted in mixtures. Given Northern Virginia’s climate, this approach is preferable than choosing one specific type of grass. For a great mixture of grass seeds that can tolerate cold temperatures, shade, and heavy foot traffic, the following types are recommended:
• Kentucky bluegrass
• Perennial ryegrass
• Fescue such as creeping red
We each want something different out of our backyard. Some homeowners wish to limit outdoor chores with a low-maintenance lawn, while more active families tend to enjoy plenty of lawn games and barbecues. Depending on your personal preferences, you should choose the right type of grass or seed mix that will meet your needs.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to turfgrass, there are more ways to spruce up your backyard and create the ultimate outdoor space. Consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your lawn, including Virginia’s native plants and hardscaping features.
\n\n\n\nRegardless of how low-maintenance your lawn is, it may still require the occasional mowing, pruning, or aerating. Looking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Chesapeake, Arlington, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesterfield, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: PxHere
\n","title":"8 Best Grass Types for Virginia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/1789c/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg","srcSet":"/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/107df/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 320w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/293e9/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 500w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/f2cbb/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 800w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/1789c/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 960w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/c26c2/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/1dd6e/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/67b76/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 320w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/8df11/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 500w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/98a65/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 800w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/1dd6e/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 960w,\n/static/70eab4f5dc1afa3569fb7145117651d5/3cc96/Best-grass-type-for-virginia.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Grass Types for Virginia | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With various species to choose from, let’s explore the best grass types for Virginia, and how to maintain a healthy turfgrass in the transition zone."}}},{"node":{"id":"6c4e8e7d-907e-5e4d-8c71-95426cbc21d8","slug":"native-plants-for-charlotte","path":"/lawn-care/nc/charlotte/native-plants-for-charlotte/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Frank Naper is a nature enthusiast who loves to travel and explore new cities, taking nature photographs along the way.","name":"Frank Naper","id":"548facf1-0faf-5729-a658-167972066913","path":"/author/frank-naper/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/905ec21d5a8e70f5f8486364c08aa6b2?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"afc750c6-fc25-5d3b-8b8a-77aa8db4c3fb","name":"Charlotte","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/charlotte/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"}],"date":"July 26th, 2019","excerpt":"Gardeners take note: You know those fussy plants that struggle in the hottest months of summer and require special care to survive winter? These are, without a doubt, nonnative species, those interlopers not acclimated to the conditions of this region. If you want to save yourself the hassle of bending over backward to keep these […]
\n","content":"\nGardeners take note: You know those fussy plants that struggle in the hottest months of summer and require special care to survive winter? These are, without a doubt, nonnative species, those interlopers not acclimated to the conditions of this region. If you want to save yourself the hassle of bending over backward to keep these plants alive, choose native plants for Charlotte.
\n\n\n\nNative plants have the upper hand because they evolved to thrive in North Carolina. They provide excellent habitat and forage for pollinators and wildlife. Best of all, they need little care compared to their invasive counterparts. Here are a few of the best native plants for Charlotte, N.C.
\n\n\n\nA local, well-adapted to forests and riverbanks, cardinal flower is a showy native that can grow in the sun and shade. This beautiful perennial can grow from one to six feet tall. While it doesn’t need much water, it prefers slightly moist soil. Blooming from May until October, you’ll see lots of hummingbirds stop by to feast on the nectar.
\n\n\n\nThis native flower is a primary food source for monarch butterflies. This variety of milkweed has bright orange blooms that last from May to August. It thrives best in full sun and dry soil, requiring almost no maintenance to flourish.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rBbq0WF4wWvvYwX5TvdFYCNWhhcn72IvOsFDTENKJvS1cheazSie18on_zi-V6DgzlcHiDvp0V2DBN8pip9pQzGlyjPSYrfnJqQ0BuNJ1RWTGheuHOfDLDXLUD6Mge_elInNec9m\")
This mountain native loves nothing more than sunshine and well-drained soil. From May to June, large spires of yellow flowers adorn the top of this plant’s branches. It’s great for adding color and height to the edges of a garden. Standing three to six feet tall, this is a tall perennial that will steal the show with early spring blooms.
\n\n\n\nThe blue blooms of the dwarf crested iris are great if you’re looking for flowers to plant in shaded areas. Standing less than a foot tall, this miniature blooms from March to May, offering bursts of color and food for hummingbirds in early spring.
\n\n\n\nThis small shrub features long, arching branches and bright foliage. It blooms with striking clusters of purple berries in fall and winter, providing food for wildlife. Usually reaching heights of three to five feet, beautyberry performs best in part shade. This makes it an ideal understory shrub or edge planting. The beautyberry requires little maintenance and will provide color when most of your other plants are dormant.
\n\n\n\nBeloved by gardeners and butterflies alike, buttonbush is a multistemmed shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall. The round white or pink flowers that dangle from the tips of the branches are irresistible to butterflies. Well suited for shade and part shade, this is another excellent understory plant that performs well on the edge of a property.
\n\n\n\nThis is only a taste of the many species native to our area. Hopefully, it can stimulate your imagination about the landscape possibilities when you choose native plants to Charlotte. Remember, the more native your landscape, the more time you can spend enjoying it, rather than maintaining it.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Charlotte? Visit our Charlotte, NC lawn care page.
If you like to host BBQs for all the Sooners games, your grass needs to withstand the viewing party’s emotional roller coaster as you watch the score. Your turf also needs to handle OKC’s roller coaster weather. To get your yard ready for the games (and the changing seasons), we’ve compiled a list of the […]
\n","content":"\nIf you like to host BBQs for all the Sooners games, your grass needs to withstand the viewing party’s emotional roller coaster as you watch the score. Your turf also needs to handle OKC’s roller coaster weather. To get your yard ready for the games (and the changing seasons), we’ve compiled a list of the 7 best grass types for your Oklahoma City lawn.
\n\n\n\nOklahoma City is in the transition zone, which means your yard can grow either warm or cool-season grasses. This list includes 4 warm-season grasses: bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, buffalograss, and St. Augustinegrass. The 3 best cool-season grasses for OKC include tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nEach home has different lawn needs and uses, so you’ll have to evaluate different things, such as foot traffic, amount of shade, and how much maintenance you want to perform on your lawn. Let’s take a closer look at each grass type.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll talk about:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grass goes dormant in the winter if the outside temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit or the soil temperature drops below 55 degrees. When temperatures warm up through spring, summer, and early autumn, expect your warm-season grass to thrive.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grass needs additional water in summer as it endures dormancy. Cool-season grasses green up in early spring, enter dormancy in summer, return to green in autumn, and enter winter dormancy when the soil temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nOKC sits in the transition zone for grass growing, which means your lawn can grow either warm-season or cool-season grasses. Northern states typically grow cool-season lawns that prefer long winters and mild summers, while southern states grow warm-season grasses that thrive throughout the warm summers and mild winters.
\n\n\n\nSince Oklahoma is sandwiched in the middle (aka the transition zone) it experiences both extreme summers and winters. The question is, what time of year do you want your lawn to be its greenest? The following 4 warm-season grasses will grow best in summer, while the 3 remaining cool-season grasses will grow best in spring and autumn.
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThanks to its high foot traffic tolerance, kids and pets can run freely on bermudagrass for hours on end. It recovers quickly from damage, which is why you’ll often see bermudagrass on sports fields.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass checks many boxes: high drought tolerance, high foot traffic tolerance, high salt tolerance, and high heat tolerance.
\n\n\n\nBut those upsides come with some downsides. Bermudagrass is high-maintenance and has low shade tolerance. So if your lawn receives shade, bermudagrass might struggle. If you’re looking for low-maintenance grass, bermudagrass might not be the optimal choice either. It grows fast, develops thatch, and can be invasive, so it requires lots of care and attention. Left unchecked, it can invade your flower beds.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low – thrives in full sun.
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Fertilize once a year according to soil test results. Susceptible to thatch build-up – dethatch when thatch layer is more than ½ inch.
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Good tolerance to salt
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zoysia-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWeeds are not generally a problem with Zoysiagrass, thanks to its dense growing habit. However, its thick growth makes the turf more susceptible to pet urine damage than other grass types. Why? Because the urine won’t drain well. Bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass aren’t nearly as thick as Zoysiagrass, allowing the pet urine to drain through easier, leading to less damage.
\n\n\n\nIf we compare Zoysiagrass to bermudagrass, you’ll notice that both grass types have a high foot traffic tolerance. However, some homeowners might prefer bermudagrass over Zoysiagrass because bermudagrass recovers faster. On the other hand, Zoysiagrass is more shade tolerant than bermudagrass, so you’ll need to consider which strength takes priority.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a drought-tolerant and salt-tolerant grass.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: High but recovers slowly from damage.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low to moderate nitrogen requirement; moderate mowing frequency
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: Set mowing height between 1 to 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Not prone to disease and insects; good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: Moderately salt tolerant; cut with sharp mower blade; mow taller if the grass is in partial shade
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBuffalograss is a warm-season, low-maintenance, blue-green grass. Once it’s established, you won’t have to frequently mow, fertilize, or water your buffalograss lawn. Lawn diseases and insects aren’t generally a problem in buffalograss, which means less work on your end. However, buffalograss’ open growth habit can make weeds a never-ending battle.
\n\n\n\nAlthough buffalograss is soft to walk on barefoot, don’t let the foot traffic get too high on it – Buffalograss has a low foot traffic tolerance. It might not recover well after your Sooners-themed BBQ.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs. Develops thatch and requires weed control.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 2 and 3 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good tolerance against diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6.5-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Native clay soils, not sandy soils
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Overwatering could cause invasive weeds
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bubble-on-St.-Augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is a rich green-colored, high-maintenance, warm-season grass. Homeowners will have to perform many maintenance tasks during the active growing season. These tasks include fertilizing regularly, dethatching, aerating, and inspecting for lawn diseases and pests.
\n\n\n\nUnlike bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass can tolerate shade. It’s the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass, which makes it an excellent choice if your lawn receives shade.
\n\n\n\nIf your family spends time in your saltwater pool for exercise instead of running around on the grass, St. Augustinegrass may be a good fit–– it has a low foot traffic tolerance but can tolerate salt.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate. It is the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 3.5 and 4 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Vulnerable to lawn pests such as chinch bugs, white grubs, and mole crickets.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a great transition zone grass because its deep roots help with drought tolerance (it will need water during the summer with periods of little rainfall, though). Among other cool-season grasses, tall fescue has the highest heat tolerance. It’s also low maintenance and doesn’t need regular fertilization compared to other cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\nHowever, OKC’s humidity could increase the possibility of lawn pests with tall fescue. If pests damage your tall fescue lawn, you’ll need to overseed it because this turf doesn’t repair itself well.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Aerate in the fall if your soil gets compacted
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pilot138-17 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a high-maintenance cool-season grass that needs full sun. It’s considered high-maintenance because it needs to be mowed, fertilized frequently, dethatched every one to two years, and monitored for lawn diseases.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is soft to walk on and has a deep green color. If it gets damaged from your cornhole boards always being in the same spot, rest assured the rhizomes in Kentucky bluegrass will self-repair (unlike tall fescue).
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Produces a dense lawn under ideal conditions; many of these traits (shade tolerance, drought resistance, etc.) vary widely by cultivar, with newer cultivars generally being hardier, more resistant to disease, etc.; mow taller in summer; most often mixed with other species in home lawns, such as tall fescue.
\n\n\n\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 cool-season, fast germinating, medium to dark green-colored grass. It is most often used in The Big Friendly to overseed warm-season lawns, such as bermudagrass. Overseeding warm-season lawns with cool-season grass can extend the lawn’s green period in winter.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass cultivars such as Diplomat, Citation, Palmer, Prelude, Ranger, and Repell perform well in Oklahoma City conditions.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Develops less thatch than other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to plant grass seed in Oklahoma City depends on if you choose warm-season or cool-season grass. Warm-season grasses should be planted between late spring and early summer. Cool-season grasses should be planted between late August to early October.
If you want to avoid pulling weeds and spraying herbicides, consider Zoysiagrass. Its thick growth habit helps choke out weeds.
St. Augustinegrass is the best warm-season grass type for a shaded lawn. For cool-season grass, tall fescue is the best choice from this list.
You’ve decided on the grass type that best fits the yard’s foot traffic, shaded and sunny areas, and your maintenance needs (how much do you want to be sweating doing maintenance in the hot summer sun?). But a nice lawn is only one aspect of your OKC landscape – remember to adorn the lawn with OKC’s best native plants, too.
\n\n\n\nWant more time to visit the Oklahoma City Zoo instead of maintaining the lawn? Contact an Oklahoma City lawn care professional to help take over your lawn mowing, edging, and trimming.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: MARELBU / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"7 Best Grass Types for Oklahoma City","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.430274135876043,"src":"/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/1789c/Oklahoma-City.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/107df/Oklahoma-City.jpg 320w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/293e9/Oklahoma-City.jpg 500w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/f2cbb/Oklahoma-City.jpg 800w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/1789c/Oklahoma-City.jpg 960w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/c26c2/Oklahoma-City.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/1dd6e/Oklahoma-City.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/67b76/Oklahoma-City.webp 320w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/8df11/Oklahoma-City.webp 500w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/98a65/Oklahoma-City.webp 800w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/1dd6e/Oklahoma-City.webp 960w,\n/static/ae02978074bcbc6f8d7954e900518ec5/3cc96/Oklahoma-City.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"7 Best Grass Types for Oklahoma City","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Looking to start a new lawn or refresh one? This article will discuss both warm- and cool-season grass types for Oklahoma City lawns."}}},{"node":{"id":"15fe3380-b249-58a2-bf72-a8be5cfb16b5","slug":"tips-on-managing-a-seasonal-business-like-the-landscaping-industry","path":"/lawn-care/tips-on-managing-a-seasonal-business-like-the-landscaping-industry/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jackie Greene is a blogger, gardener, and nutrition enthusiast. She enjoys creating organic meals for family and friends using the fresh ingredients she produces from her backyard homestead.","name":"Jackie Greene","id":"fb5923e1-833b-5d9b-808e-ded0e62c0bc4","path":"/author/jackiegreene/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c1121209a3ebfbe0a7e941d102b2971?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"September 8th, 2018","excerpt":"One of the biggest hurdles for people who choose landscaping as their small business is the feast or famine aspect. Revenue peaks and valleys are a real issue. Not only for lawn mowing services but for any business that has ups and downs in cash flow during the year. As business owners, we can view […]
\n","content":"One of the biggest hurdles for people who choose landscaping as their small business is the feast or famine aspect. Revenue peaks and valleys are a real issue. Not only for lawn mowing services but for any business that has ups and downs in cash flow during the year.
\nAs business owners, we can view these issues as problems or challenges. A problem is something we complain about. A challenge is something we are more likely to take personally and overcome.
\nSo let’s look at some ways landscapers, in particular, can battle the slow months of the year when the grass is not growing.
\nTake time to talk to your customers, then listen. It’s easy to get in a hurry when you have 32 acres to mow before the days end. But you will leave money on the table if you fail to connect to the good people who pay you regularly. A five-minute conversation could turn into a request for a retaining wall estimate. Or they may mention that their neighbor is looking into a water pond.
\nTalking with customers naturally results in more work. Maybe not immediately, but it could materialize in the dead of winter when you need extra work.
\nServices like lawn care, house painting, and even garbage collection are going high-tech. We may never see a weed-whacking robot on every lawn, but as the owner of a service-based business, technology should be your friend.
\nThere are apps designed to connect service providers with customers. So it’s a no-brainer to get onboard with a company looking to find customers for you. For example, these tech companies know how to find customers who need interior painting in the cold of winter. That’s a big help to a painting crew wanting to stay busy… and warm!
\nOften the best solution to a problem is the simplest solution. If your lawn business is slow from December through February, you need to pay attention to what services people are using in those months.
\nBy watching how folks are spending their money in your slower season, you’ll find ways to offer those services as well. It’s not a guessing game as to what sells when you physically see the same services being performed over and over.
\nUsing social media to promote your small business is smart. And it’s easy to post projects in the busy season. After all, you have something to “talk” about and show off.
\nDon’t forget to be sociable during the slower season though. Facebook conversations can lead to similar results as chatting with your customers face to face.
\nHow climbing ladders is one of the top ways to get sent to the ER… then mention your new Christmas lights installation service.
\nPut up a post about how clogged gutters can rot parts of a house. November is the prime time people search for “gutter clean,” according to Google Trends.
\nUse news items that are trending on your Facebook feed. Connect your services and advice to a local or national news story.
\nDuring the slower months of the year, you may have to round up some new customers to add to your base. One easy way to do that is to offer a tiny service for a very reasonable price.
\nLandscapers can get their foot in the door with a simple task like testing homeowners’ soil. Or if you have a friend in the roofing business, you could offer free roof inspections. You’d be able to help your friend get more business and drop off your card as well.
\nI could point you to 50 different tools to budget your money in order to survive down months in your seasonal business. But here are my top picks:
\nClark Howard is a consumer advocate who can help you get your spending under control. He is a pro at finding deals on flights and he can spot a financial scam from 100 yards away.
\nFor a digital approach to budgeting, give YNAB (You Need A Budget) a try. This software will help you tell your money where to go before it slips away mysteriously each week.
\nI’ll admit that getting out and staying out of debt sounds impossible. But if you need a pep talk about “acting your wage,” take a listen to Dave Ramsey’s podcast.
\nIf you like to handle your money with a smartphone, there are several apps for that. Mint is still one of the best, with over 190,000 reviews on Apple’s App Store.
\nMaybe you want no part of an elaborate budgeting system, then it’s simple. Spend less than you make. It’s not easy, but it is a worthy, actionable habit to build. Especially for landscapers who have more revenue in the warm months.
\nYour business may never have as steady an income as you’d like all through the year. But if you are steady and consistent in pursuit of that goal, you will see a big improvement.
\nTry to implement these tips to see which work best for your specific seasonal business.
\n","title":"Tips on Managing a Seasonal Business, like the Landscaping Industry","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.777602523659306,"src":"/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/1789c/landscapers-planting-shrubs.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/107df/landscapers-planting-shrubs.jpg 320w,\n/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/293e9/landscapers-planting-shrubs.jpg 500w,\n/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/f2cbb/landscapers-planting-shrubs.jpg 800w,\n/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/1789c/landscapers-planting-shrubs.jpg 960w,\n/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/de518/landscapers-planting-shrubs.jpg 2254w","srcWebp":"/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/1dd6e/landscapers-planting-shrubs.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/67b76/landscapers-planting-shrubs.webp 320w,\n/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/8df11/landscapers-planting-shrubs.webp 500w,\n/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/98a65/landscapers-planting-shrubs.webp 800w,\n/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/1dd6e/landscapers-planting-shrubs.webp 960w,\n/static/0dde5457f4be3a9597c5f9eda4d79cf9/f462d/landscapers-planting-shrubs.webp 2254w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Tips on Managing a Seasonal Business, like the Landscaping Industry | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"d17a6fcf-a5ba-5a16-82b3-5c16154e8f51","slug":"best-grass-seed-utah","path":"/lawn-care/ut/best-grass-seed-utah/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Beck Carter","id":"3b38b422-934a-5aae-81e6-7a8844634ab1","path":"/author/beck-carter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/faa5e8711d89766a0fe69560b04f52b1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"65f3de7c-13d9-573a-b422-7e8ea533aaa7","name":"Utah","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ut/"}],"date":"May 17th, 2023","excerpt":"Utah features a stunning array of mountains, plateaus, natural arches, sand dunes, and basins. Homeowners here will want a lawn that is just as beautiful as their state, and that starts with choosing the best grass seed for Utah. Utah sits primarily in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, meaning cool-season grasses thrive throughout the state. But […]
\n","content":"\nUtah features a stunning array of mountains, plateaus, natural arches, sand dunes, and basins. Homeowners here will want a lawn that is just as beautiful as their state, and that starts with choosing the best grass seed for Utah.
\n\n\n\nUtah sits primarily in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, meaning cool-season grasses thrive throughout the state. But which cool-season grasses? Below, we’ll break down the best grasses for your Utah lawn, including a warm-season grass option for those in southern Utah.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Kentucky bluegrass is one of the most widely used turfgrasses in the United States. This grass type is a dense turf that recovers well from stress. Kentucky bluegrass can tolerate cold temperatures as well as moderate shade. This species is susceptible to disease and is often mixed with perennial ryegrass to improve its resilience.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2 to 2 ½ inches
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is another common lawn grass here. It is coarse-textured and resistant to weeds and diseases. This grass type is considered low maintenance due to its ability to handle drought and its infrequent mowing needs. Like other cool-season grasses, it does well in cool climates. However, it may not survive extreme winters.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: No higher than 3 inches
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is actually a collection of four turfgrasses, including creeping red fescue, Chewings fescue, sheep fescue, and hard fescue. This turfgrass is known to be low maintenance compared to more common grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass. Fine fescue typically requires less frequent mowing, watering, and fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type, rhizomes (creeping red only)
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 2 to 3 inches
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Levin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is often confused with Kentucky bluegrass due to its similar color, texture, and density. This turfgrass is often used for overseeding to maintain color in the winter. Perennial ryegrass can handle heavy foot traffic although it struggles in the shade.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Buffalograss.jpg\")
]Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nOur only warm-season grass on this list, buffalograss stays green in summer with much less watering than other grasses. For homeowners in southern Utah, where the USDA hardiness zone is 8a in some areas, this may be a better option. Buffalograss survives drought and cold temperatures, but because it is a warm-season grass, it is dormant in the fall.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss does not handle shade or high altitude well. Buffalograss is considered low maintenance once established due to infrequent mowing and fertilizing needs. However, growing buffalograss from seeds can be a long process.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nRecommended mowing height: 1 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nTall and fine fescue grasses are great for low-maintenance lawns.
Homeowners with pets will want a grass type with high urine tolerance and a good ability to handle foot (or paw) traffic. On this list, Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass are all pet-friendly options.
Fine fescue grasses are great choices for shady lawn areas.
You can purchase bags of grass seed from your local home improvement store and seed your lawn yourself. If you’d rather not wait too long for the grass to develop, you can purchase sod instead. This will allow you to lay an entire pre-grown lawn that will have established roots in just a few weeks.
\n\n\n\nToo busy heading out to the Great Salt Lake or Bryce Canyon for some summer fun? Have a pro do the work for you and come home to a brand-new lawn. For help with all of your outdoor chores contact Wikilawn’s lawn care professionals for help.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Utah Lawn / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n","title":"Best Grass Seed for Your Utah Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/1789c/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.jpg","srcSet":"/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/107df/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.jpg 320w,\n/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/293e9/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.jpg 500w,\n/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/f2cbb/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.jpg 800w,\n/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/1789c/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.jpg 960w,\n/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/c26c2/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/1dd6e/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/67b76/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.webp 320w,\n/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/8df11/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.webp 500w,\n/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/98a65/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.webp 800w,\n/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/1dd6e/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.webp 960w,\n/static/307399f55b2d7ab0e64de8c816e301ac/3cc96/Pleasant_View_Utah_City_Hall.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Grass Seed for Your Utah Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Having a great lawn starts with choosing the right grass. These five grasses thrive in Utah's unique climate, provided that you care for them properly"}}},{"node":{"id":"3b008ef6-4054-5eca-bac5-192a19ae962b","slug":"the-worst-bugs-in-austin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/the-worst-bugs-in-austin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"Living in a lush city with mild winters feels like heaven… until the armies of pests begin to congregate in yards, on patios, and around pools, waiting for their chance to ruin your day. The creepy crawly, not to mention bitey and stingy contingent of this corner of the world can’t help it. They’re thirsty […]
\n","content":"\nLiving in a lush city with mild winters feels like heaven… until the armies of pests begin to congregate in yards, on patios, and around pools, waiting for their chance to ruin your day. The creepy crawly, not to mention bitey and stingy contingent of this corner of the world can’t help it. They’re thirsty for water, blood, or just trying to defend their turf (even if it happens to be yours), and they need to go. Here’s a quick guide to the worst bugs in Austin and how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nAnyone who’s ever wandered into fire ant territory in sandals can tell you they’re the worst pest in Texas. And that’s a tall order in a state crawling with venomous critters. Fire ants top this list because of their aggression and their uncanny ability to show up en mass where you don’t want them. Picnic? You can count on these invasive ants to be there. Veggie garden? Check! Kitchen counter courtesy of any gap in a window or door? You betcha!
\n\n\n\nGetting rid of fire ants is a process. So take a deep breath and start early in the spring, as soon as you see them building their mounds. The “two-step method” involves baiting the ant mounds between August and September. Next, after a few weeks have passed, the individual mounds are spot-treated. Baiting mounds isn’t a good idea for families with young children. In that case, a non-toxic method such as orange oil or boiling water applied to mounds may be preferable.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/lLCUlMvzdzrz-l86U0KVD-wCIhPeDvLw5jKUfC8G_bTnPh_VA9K1tUTxIr39ew_m548d9xWQtqzzs2rjvw9yoZ3Gv_u3DWhdwK7ihiPWtnBOECQIeZSa2rFi1RNzL6QBaQ1KSW8G\")
Known as water roaches, tree roaches, or just terrifying monsters that need to get out of the house, palmetto bugs are harmless, but hated insects. These most unwelcome visitors are drawn by food, water, and places they can easily hide. If you have a palmetto bug issue, your first plan of action must be to determine where they’re’ coming from. If you have a compost pile close to your home, this is a likely source. Wood piles and mounds of leaves are likely hangout spots as well.
\n\n\n\nEliminating any cozy places where wood or leaves are decomposing will help give these guys the boot. If they’re coming into your house, identify and seal any gaps or cracks where they’re entering. Try sprinkling boric acid around sills where you suspect they’re lurking.
\n\n\n\nThese bloodsuckers are a stealthy menace, quietly biting us at dusk– when we’re the least likely to see them. Mosquitoes are both annoying and dangerous carriers for tropical diseases. We do have a number of methods for deterring them, beginning with preventing them from breeding in the first place.
\n\n\n\nMake sure there are no containers of standing water anywhere near your home (our friends in Florida know all about this tip). This includes changing the water in bird baths, fountains, and potted plant trays each week. Rain barrels should have screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering and laying eggs. Place an agitator in all water features. Mosquitoes will only lay eggs in still water.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKeep shrubs trimmed and tidy. Plant basil, marigolds, petunias and lavender to repel the pests. The scent of these flowers really bugs mosquitoes. Installing an outdoor fan can keep mosquitoes from crashing your parties as well. Wearing light-colored clothing and avoiding the outdoors during dawn and dusk are also good ways to avoid their bites.
\n\n\n\nThe mild climate around Austin and Round Rock is just as attractive to these nasty pests as it is to us. In addition to all of the tips above, maintaining a tidy lawn and landscape is one of the best ways to repel the worst bugs in Austin.
\n\n\n\nHave more questions about pest control and prevention in your lawn? Visit our Austin, TX lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
\n","title":"The Worst Bugs in Austin and How to Get Rid of them","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.16580310880829,"src":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/5d440/fireants.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/107df/fireants.jpg 320w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/293e9/fireants.jpg 500w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/f2cbb/fireants.jpg 800w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/5d440/fireants.jpg 900w","srcWebp":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/e342a/fireants.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/67b76/fireants.webp 320w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/8df11/fireants.webp 500w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/98a65/fireants.webp 800w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/e342a/fireants.webp 900w","sizes":"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Worst Bugs in Austin and How to Get Rid of them | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Are the bugs really bugging you this summer? Take a look at this list of the worst bugs in Austin and how to get rid of them."}}},{"node":{"id":"d8e00237-3b05-52bd-a483-4882bf0fe488","slug":"native-plants-for-cincinnati","path":"/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/native-plants-for-cincinnati/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"cd94a504-1dfc-52f0-ae16-ea162e4c1f6a","name":"Cincinnati","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"August 12th, 2019","excerpt":"These plants have adapted to the Cincinnati climate and soil conditions, so they need less water, fertilizer, and maintenance.
\n","content":"\nAfter a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, you may feel inspired to transform your landscape into a native plant garden. With potentially hundreds of trees, shrubs, and flowers to choose from, the long list can be quite overwhelming. It might surprise you that not all Ohio-native plants can thrive in your area. To save you from hours of research, this article will cover some of the best native plants for Cincinnati.
\n\n\n\nIn this article
\n\n\n\n![\"Baptisia](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-Indigo.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe blue false indigo is a valuable addition to your Cincinnati garden. It is great for a specimen plant or in small groups, with bloom colors ranging from purple to blue. Blue false indigo bears spikes of pea-shaped indigo blue flowers that last for approximately 3 weeks. This plant is of great value to bumblebees, so they offer more than just aesthetics.
\n\n\n\nOn an important note, several parts of this plant may be toxic if ingested. Children may be most vulnerable to this plant’s toxicity, so make sure your little ones don’t get too curious when playing outdoors.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Upright perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, Sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested.
\n\n\n\n![\"Common](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is one of the easiest and fastest milkweeds to grow in Cincinnati. Common milkweed is a great choice for flower gardens, or to create a natural setting on your property. This native plant produces clusters of starry, pinkish-purple flowers that bloom during the summer.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, common milkweed gives way to prominent seed pods in the fall. If you enjoy dried flower arrangements, these pods can be a great addition! Common milkweed is also vital to the survival of monarch butterflies. Add this native plant to your backyard to help boost the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nIt is important to note that eating milkweed is not recommended. Boiling the sap may still not be enough to eliminate this plant’s toxicity.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Rhizomatous perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweetly scented
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June – August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested
\n\n\n\n![\"Swamp](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-Thistle-Cirsium-muticum-Cape-St.-Marys-Ecological-Reserve-Newfoundland-2019-08-10.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe swamp thistle is highly valued as a nectar plant. It attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This biennial plant produces deeply lobed leaves in the first year and flowers in the second year.
\n\n\n\nThe flowers produced by this plant give way to small seeds with white hair tufts. Songbirds will generally eat the seeds and use the hair tufts to build their nests. Given its biennial nature, the swamp thistle will die after flowering.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tall biennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Biennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: July – September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average, high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 7 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Mature](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mature-Hackberry-Celtis-occidentalis-Chicago-IL.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Adam Shaw / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis native plant is a medium to large deciduous tree, with glossy to dull green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The common hackberry produces greenish male and female flowers in the spring. They provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The female flowers are followed by a heavy crop of edible berries that many birds relish.
\n\n\n\nOverall, the common hackberry is a tough shade tree that can be used as a lawn tree.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, clay, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 40 to 60 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flowering-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by and (c)2007 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man) / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFlowering dogwood is a popular, showy plant that can be used as a large shrub or a small deciduous tree. Many gardeners or landscapers throughout the Midwest regard this plant as one of the best small flowering trees, with no routine pruning required. Overall, it can serve as a specimen plant near patios and lawns, or in shrub borders.
\n\n\n\nFlowering dogwood blossoms give way to rounded orange-red fruits from early summer. This plant attracts birds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrubs, trees
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet honeysuckle
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 30 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Aesculus-flava-Yellow-Buckeye.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Plant Image Library / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYellow buckeye is a deciduous tree that must be planted in rich, moist, well-drained soil. If your property has a large lawn, then this plant works great as a shade tree. The foliage turns brilliant yellow to pumpkin-orange in the fall, giving your backyard a picturesque feel.
\n\n\n\nThe flowers give way to smooth, pear-shaped capsules that contain one or two buckeyes, justifying this plant’s common name. What separates this tree from the Ohio buckeye (aesculus glabra) is the small teeth along the margin of the leaflet.
\n\n\n\nIt is important to note that all parts are mildly poisonous if ingested, but can be severely toxic to horses, dogs, and cats.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: chalk, clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April to June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 50 to 70 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to dogs, cat, and horses; all parts are mildly poisonous by ingestion
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: denisbin / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRed oak is a fast-growing deciduous tree, a common symbol of strength and endurance in North America. It is a popular shade and street tree that can be easily spotted in Cincinnati, but can also serve as a great specimen tree for large landscapes.
\n\n\n\nRed oak has a beautiful spring foliage of broad, dark green leaves that turn bright red in the fall. Once the first crop of acorns are produced, they become a valuable source of food for small mammals and birds. A moist but well-drained soil is required to ensure these native trees grow properly.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March to May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 50 to 70 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Leaves and acorns may be toxic to some animals; non-toxic to humans
\n\n\n\n![\"Wild](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Hydrangea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Public Domain Pictures
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWild hydrangea is a small, multi-stemmed shrub with greenish-white flowers as its main landscape feature. It is a great plant for shrub borders, or as a flowering hedge. Once the fall season kicks in, this plant’s foliage will turn yellow.
\n\n\n\nPruning wild hydrangea, sometimes even to the ground, is highly recommended to encourage the growth of large flowerheads. This process should take place during late winter or early spring.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: rich, well-drained, moist
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Mild fruity
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May – August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe name of this plant is derived from the dark brown center of its daisy-like flower head. Black-eyed susan does very well in landscapes, butterfly gardens, or containers. Additionally, they can serve as great cut flowers.
\n\n\n\nThis plant’s flowers bloom regularly when exposed to full sunshine. Black-eyed susan attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators due to the nectar found in its flowers. Once established, this plant will tolerate droughts.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Short-lived perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual, biennial, perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – November
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nCincinnati lies in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 6, a vital factor to consider before planting new shrubs, flowers, or trees. This will also help gardeners and landscapers to distinguish between non-native and Ohio native plants. However, your backyard or garden is not the same as everyone else’s in Cincinnati.
\n\n\n\nBefore selecting new native plants for your garden, you should consider the type of soil, level of sun exposure, and the watering capabilities of your landscape. For example, placing a native plant under the shade when it requires full sun will not allow it to thrive and grow properly.
\n\n\n\nThe pawpaw is the native fruit of Ohio. Cincinnatians will know that this fruit can be found or eaten mid-to-late September. As for the name, it is derived from the fruit’s black seeds that resemble an animal’s paw.
The problem with invasive species is that they compete for space with native plants. Garlic mustard is among the worst invasive plants you may encounter in Ohio. To make matters worse, the flowers of this plant will emit a strong odor of garlic when crushed.
To get rid of the garlic mustard plant, you can simply pull them out by hand or spray them with glyphosate.
In January of 2023, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources made it illegal to plant, sell, or grow Callery pear trees in the entire state due to their invasiveness. Additionally, this tree is likely to cause harm to the local economy and ecosystem. For all these reasons, the Callery pear tree was added to the list of invasive plants no longer allowed to thrive in Ohio.
To learn more about other invasive plant species, visit the official webpage of the Ohio Department of Agriculture.
Native plants are essential to preserve the local ecosystem. It’s not just about how good they look in your yard, but how they serve as a valuable source of food or nectar to many animals in the area.
Here are some reasons to grow Cincinnati native plants:
• Save water
• No fertilizers or pesticides needed
• Rarely invasive
• Preserve biodiversity
• Require less maintenance
• Save you money
Homeowners in Cincinnati may find native plants naturally growing around their property, or visit local garden centers to select from a wide variety of native plants.
\n\n\n\nHere are some garden centers located in and around the Greater Cincinnati area:
\n\n\n\nIf you prefer hiring a professional to maintain your lawn and garden, connect with a local lawn care professional who can take the job off your hands.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
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\n","content":"\nIf you’ve got a yard, you’re likely spending some time taking care of it. After all your hard work, it can be frustrating to discover unsightly lawn problems. This may be small comfort, but you’re far from alone.
\n\n\n\nThe best way to avoid lawn problems is to grow and maintain a healthy lawn. Start by choosing a grass type that will grow well in your area. That alone will give your lawn the best chance against pests, weeds and lawn disease. Read on to learn more about the most common problems that may be plaguing your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/4S-DCXhofFHBaDgbXOWqsRPRmMSnhZqLGHGmXAAMHV15iaGXKjQRchnMgJeTxS4u7m7VB8PnqphYL1Oa1gLlySGuiTPS4SjiMcC9aYQcQNBqtqpvlRIlPCueccRwDMfuXnPTG6-d\")
Brown patch disease happens most frequently during hot, humid summer months. The University of Massachusetts Extension says “Brown patch caused by Rhizoctonia solani is the most widespread of all turf diseases occurring throughout the world and attacking all known turfgrasses.” You’ll notice large irregular circles of brown grass. Tall fescue and ryegrass are particularly susceptible.
\n\n\n\nRust is a fungal disease caused by fungal spores. It leaves yellow-orange spots with a powdery residue in your grass. The spores prey on under-watered and over-watered lawns. They’ll also attack lawns that are lacking in key nutrients like nitrogen.
\n\n\n\nSnow mold develops under snow that sits on your lawn for extended periods. There are two types: pink snow mold and gray snow mold. It appears in early spring when the snow melts as gray or pink-hued patches of white. Pink snow mold can also grow during cool, wet weather without any snow. Prevent snow mold by gradually cutting the grass shorter ahead of winter, and by not leaving a thick layer of leaves on your lawn over the winter. A preventative fungicide may also help.
\n\n\n\nDollar spot shows up as patches of silver-dollar sized brown patches in your lawn. It’s caused by a fungus and is very common on golf courses and recreational turf fields. It affects cool and warm-season grasses and can appear anywhere from late spring to late fall. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and after long periods of wet weather.
\n\n\n\nWhite grubs are beetle larvae and larvae of other types of insects. White grubs feed on grass roots, causing irregular brown spots in your yard. You’ll notice this damage most often in the fall.
\n\n\n\nYou can tell you have an infestation if you can pull up the dead turf like a rug, revealing the C-shaped white larvae on top of the soil. You may also notice birds on your lawn because they love to feast on the grubs. Other animals are attracted to the scent, including raccoons, opossums, moles, and skunks. They’ll dig up your yard to get to the grubs, so lawn damage is another sign you may have an infestation.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wyUrxwMg673hhLE8s8NmrkONFoFXHp-075zupE9zNyFdaCTv4UeE2mcDY9Vre23NJcJ8QfjPmdJ23PfpJK8_8Cz7O-ypVhff8FFeonNvC6sUNpFqeOYFQCLaPheyp3vCUubbjCPv\")
Weeds may be the king of lawn problems, or at least one of the most common. Weeds like crabgrass and dandelions will take over your yard if given the chance, especially if your lawn isn’t healthy. To avoid this, use good lawn care practices. These include regular mowing with a sharp blade and adequate watering for your grass type. To conserve water, supplement rainfall with a regular watering schedule. Weeds will have a harder time taking hold in a thick, healthy lawn with a healthy root system.
\n\n\n\nThese problems show up for many different reasons. These include foot traffic, lawn diseases, compacted soil or broken or badly adjusted sprinklers. Aerating once a year can help with compacted soil and in the prevention of lawn diseases. Test sprinklers to see if you need to adjust or replace them. In areas with high foot traffic, consider replacing the grass with a pathway using rocks, pavers or wood chips. You could also hardscape the area rather than continually reseeding or replacing the turf.
\n\n\n\nDog urine contains high amounts of nitrogen which can burn your grass and cause it to turn brown. Dark green grass can sometimes ring the brown patches. Train your dog to take care of business in one part of your yard. Consider re-planting damaged grass with a urine-resistant grass like tall fescue or ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nRecognizing these common lawn problems is the first step in fixing them. Preventing these problems before they start is even better. Regular mowing, watering, and lawn care can go a long way in keeping these unwelcome issues off your lawn.
Main image credit: Veracious Rey, CC by-SA 3.0
\n","title":"5 Most-Common Lawn Problems","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5064814814814815,"src":"/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/1789c/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/107df/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 320w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/293e9/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 500w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/f2cbb/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 800w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/1789c/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 960w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/3f77c/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 1627w","srcWebp":"/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/1dd6e/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/67b76/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 320w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/8df11/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 500w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/98a65/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 800w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/1dd6e/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 960w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/c6846/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 1627w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Most-Common Lawn Problems | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"4c56138e-9103-52c6-81f9-eb3c6bc55d56","slug":"best-grass-types-boston","path":"/lawn-care/ma/boston/best-grass-types-boston/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp award-winning garden writer, editor, and speaker. (She speaks at libraries, garden clubs, public gardens, home and garden shows, Master Gardener groups, and horticulture industry events.) Known as a hortiholic, she frequently says her eyes are too big for her yard. She blogs at hoosiergardener.com.","name":"Jo Ellen Meyer Sharp","id":"7ac166e7-66c5-5908-b0ac-d817298c8751","path":"/author/jo-ellen-meyer-sharp/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/63824390c841836ff2ffdaeb32c90d34?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"bc5dd326-c9ae-59ac-ad82-e4a08e14955d","name":"Boston","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ma/boston/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"33c4a526-c6f7-5d9e-96d4-d1803a4d03b7","name":"Massachusetts","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ma/"}],"date":"April 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Boston is known for its Emerald Necklace, defined by the Frederick Law Olmsted-designed system of green spaces. You can have a little bit of the Emerald Necklace in your landscape with the correct selection of the best grass types for your Boston lawn. These are recommendations for seed or sod. In this article Kentucky Bluegrass […]
\n","content":"\nBoston is known for its Emerald Necklace, defined by the Frederick Law Olmsted-designed system of green spaces. You can have a little bit of the Emerald Necklace in your landscape with the correct selection of the best grass types for your Boston lawn. These are recommendations for seed or sod.
\n\n\n\nIn this article
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ethan2039 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWant a lawn that feels perfect under bare feet? Something soft, able to withstand kid’s play or lounging on the lawn? Kentucky bluegrass is the way to go. Although it requires a little more maintenance, Kentucky blue is one of the top choices in lawns throughout the country.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance includes regular irrigation, mowing and fertilization to retain its bluish-green good looks, even in winter. Pay particular attention to irrigation. Adequate nitrogen application is important, too. Always read and follow the label directions.
\n\n\n\nIf it gets too hot and dry and there’s no irrigation, Kentucky bluegrass will go dormant. Cooler weather, rain or renewed watering the lawn will revive it quickly, unless it went more than about six weeks without water.
\n\n\n\nPerennial Ryegrass
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Unlike Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass is a good low-maintenance alternative for your Boston landscape. Perennial rye can handle foot traffic and child play, and is great for relaxing on the deep green turf.
\n\n\n\nThe blades of perennial ryegrass are medium textured rather than fine like Kentucky bluegrass. Because it germinates quickly, it sometimes is mixed in with other grass types for overseeding or to fill bare spots. Although a clump grower, it may compete with other grasses to create an odd-looking mix in the lawn. Use about a 20% perennial rye when mixing with Kentucky blue or fine fescue.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is susceptible to fungal diseases like red thread and dollar spot. Several cultivars of perennial ryegrass contain beneficial fungal endophytes. These internal compounds help protect plants and enhance growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fine-leaf-Fescue.jpg\")
Fine-leaf Fescue
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
This type includes creeping fescue, chewings fescue and hard fescue. Each can be used alone or mixed with other grasses. Fine fescues have medium to dark green narrow leaves. They tolerate acidic or low pH soil and also tolerate shade and drought.
\n\n\n\nFine fescues do not like hot humid conditions, heavy fertilization or excess foot traffic, however. These may also get fungus disease, such as red thread. Although considered low maintenance, fine fescues do best when irrigated and mowed regularly.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Tall Fescue
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
As a rough-and-tumble lawn grass, tall fescue is at the top of the list. It is rooted in lawns throughout the country and appreciated for its low maintenance and durability. It tends to grow quickly in spring and fall, especially in open, sunny areas.
\n\n\n\nAlthough slow to establish, tall fescue requires little fertilizer and resists many pests and diseases. This makes it ideal for Boston homeowners who don’t want lawn worries. The leaf color ranges from medium to dark green with a bit of a rough. texture. Newer varieties have been developed with finer textures.
\n\n\n\nThe only warm-season grass that is winter hardy in the Boston area is zoysiagrass. It is available in the market, but homeowners should give it some thought before planting it.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it has many attributes, they may not offset other zoysia habits. For instance, zoysiagrass turns brown as soon as temperatures drop and returns to medium green when the warm season returns. In cold climates, zoysiagrass tends to be brown for a longer period than it is green.
\n\n\n\nZoysia also spreads by under- and above-ground stems (rhizomes and stolons). It readily creeps out of its space to gardens and landscape beds and the neighbor’s yard. Your neighbor will hate it.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass withstands heat, drought and foot traffic, but will thin in shade. It rarely needs to be mowed. It does need regular aeration, however. Also on the plus side, its dense growing habit discourages weeds.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses like zoysiagrass grow most actively in late spring and summer when temperatures are around 75 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. They perform best in the Southern United States.
\n\n\n\nA good lawn and garden center will stock the type of seed that is best for your Boston lawn, but it’s important to understand that most turf grass seed is a blend of seeds. The reason there are mixes is to get a fast-germinating seed to come on first to hold soil in place while slower-germinating seeds start to grow. Usually, a mixed seed selection can be used broadly in the landscape, from moderately shady locations to full sun. Grass seed also is sold as individual types.
\n\n\n\nBuy the best grass seed you can find. Grass is inexpensive compared to other plants in your Boston landscape. Current grass seed products are much improved over what your parents or grandparents sowed.
\n\n\n\nNewer products have been perfected with coatings that ensure good germination, such as a mini dose of fertilizer and enough moisture to get the seed growing.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses grow most actively in early spring and fall when temperatures are around 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re well-suited to northern climates with distinct seasons and cold winters.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to sow grass seed is from mid-August to mid-September. The soil still retains summer warmth to help the seed germinate. Rains in fall also help grass seed take root and grow.
\n\n\n\nEven overseeding – sowing seed to fill in bare spots or thicken the lawn – is best down in early fall.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re a busy bee and want to save time, opt for perennial ryegrass and fescues.
Fine fescue is the best option for lawns with abundant shade.
Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass can withstand a lot of foot traffic. Zoysiagrass is also good for a busy lawn.
Fine fescue doesn’t require as much watering as other grass types. Zoysia also needs little watering.
Don’t have time to keep up with your lawn care duties? Hire a Boston lawn care pro to turn your lawn into an emerald jewel.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Unsplash
\n","title":"The Best Grass Types For a Boston Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4943960149439601,"src":"/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/1789c/Grassy-Lawn-3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/107df/Grassy-Lawn-3.jpg 320w,\n/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/293e9/Grassy-Lawn-3.jpg 500w,\n/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/f2cbb/Grassy-Lawn-3.jpg 800w,\n/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/1789c/Grassy-Lawn-3.jpg 960w,\n/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/c26c2/Grassy-Lawn-3.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/1dd6e/Grassy-Lawn-3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/67b76/Grassy-Lawn-3.webp 320w,\n/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/8df11/Grassy-Lawn-3.webp 500w,\n/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/98a65/Grassy-Lawn-3.webp 800w,\n/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/1dd6e/Grassy-Lawn-3.webp 960w,\n/static/86e6d238eeb89cef0308e3c00537bc4e/3cc96/Grassy-Lawn-3.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Best Grass Types For a Boston Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Reseeding some bare patches in your grass or putting in a new lawn? Here are the grass types that thrive best in Boston."}}},{"node":{"id":"c5ef6238-ac97-57ac-96bd-feccea1e6ce6","slug":"fire-resistant-landscaping-montana","path":"/lawn-care/mt/fire-resistant-landscaping-montana/","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":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"851f9dd2-d0b9-5a5b-a0a0-cf65224620d5","name":"Montana","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/mt/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"Montana is nicknamed “The Last Best Place” for its natural, rugged terrain. It is home to some of the last uninhabited areas in North America, and every year, residents expand further into its remote regions, increasing populations across the wild landscapes and the chances of wildfires. Wildfire activity continues to increase thanks to Montana’s semi-arid […]
\n","content":"\nMontana is nicknamed “The Last Best Place” for its natural, rugged terrain. It is home to some of the last uninhabited areas in North America, and every year, residents expand further into its remote regions, increasing populations across the wild landscapes and the chances of wildfires. Wildfire activity continues to increase thanks to Montana’s semi-arid climate. All residents, especially those living in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas in remote locations near undeveloped forests or grasslands, should implement these fire-resistant landscaping ideas to protect their homes, families, and landscapes.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nBenefits of Fire-Resistant Montana Landscaping
\n\n\n\n6 Fire-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Montana
\n\n\n\nFAQ About Fire-Resistant Landscaping in Montana
\n\n\n\nFire-resistant landscaping offers many benefits to Montanans, including:
\n\n\n\nWildfires are part of Montana’s past, present, and future. There is no such thing as a completely fireproof landscape. However, you can take steps to protect your home and yard through fire-smart landscaping practices.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Dethatcher.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agri-Fab / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nMay is Wildfire Awareness Month in Montana. The primary goal of firewise landscaping is to keep a wildfire low, minimizing its intensity. Wildfire risk reduction is an ongoing process requiring regular attention to landscape maintenance.
\n\n\n\nMontana wildfire preparedness lawn maintenance activities include:
\n\n\n\n![\"Three](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blanketflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nMontana’s mountainous western regions, with their continental climates, receive over 35 inches of annual rainfall. Unfortunately, the steppe climates in the central and eastern regions of the Treasure State only receive around 15 inches of rain or less, far below the national average rainfall of 30 inches, creating a fire-prone habitat.
\n\n\n\nIt is important to note that no plant is fireproof, and any plant will burn under the right conditions. However, some plants resist ignition and are better suited to withstanding extreme heat. Fire behavior, climate, moisture content, plant size, and flammable or inflammable compounds inside bark or leaves all affect a landscape’s ability to resist ignition.
\n\n\n\nCheck out some of the best fire-resistant plants for the Treasure State:
\n\n\n\nHerbaceous Perennials
\n\n\n\nLow-Growing Groundcover
\n\n\n\nMontana Turfgrass
\n\n\n\nTrees and Shrubs
\n\n\n\nSucculents
\n\n\n\nNot all landscape plants are created equal. In fact, most succulents, salt-tolerant plants, and deciduous trees and shrubs are naturally fire-resistant. Watch for the following characteristics when choosing non-native and native Montana plants:
\n\n\n\nConversely, avoid the following characteristics when choosing landscape plants:
\n\n\n\nFirewise construction comes together with your firescaping to create a complete, fire-resistant landscape. FIrewise structures must reduce fuel sources and exposure. Like plants, not all materials are created equal and many construction materials are combustible.
\n\n\n\nLook for the following characteristics:
\n\n\n\nDefensible space, now known as survivable space, involves modifying landscape design, building materials, and inorganic and organic fuel sources to decrease the likelihood of home ignition caused by wildfire. Fire experts encourage all Montana homeowners to firescape and maintain their survivable space, 100 to 200 feet in all directions. This area is known as the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ).
\n\n\n\nYour home is more likely to survive a wildfire without fire suppression and intervention if grasses, plants, trees, and man-made structures are spaced regularly to reduce a fire’s intensity.
\n\n\n\nMontana recognizes three home zones:
\n\n\n\n| Zone | Distance from Structure | Things to Avoid | Recommendations |
| Zone 1 | 0-30 feet | • Woody, aromatic, or resinous plants • Closely spaced plants • Organic mulch • Woodpiles • Wooden decks, pergolas, or trellises | • Fire-resistant plants, shrubs, and trees • Short, green, well-maintained turfgrass • 100-foot garden hose attached to home • Gravel, flagstone, and non-flammable composite decking and hardscapes • Accessible driveway with visible address |
| Zone 2 | 30-100 feet | • Vegetation near wood piles, fuel tanks, or outbuildings • Dense, closely-spaced vegetation • Organic debris piles | • Location for storage shed or outbuilding • Recycle or compost instead of burning • Thin and prune coniferous trees • Store woodpiles and propane tanks |
| Zone 3 | 100-200+ feet | • Dense thickets of shrubs or trees • Overgrowth | • Prune and thin trees • Regularly monitor re-sprouting |
![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Hardscaping.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nNative plants are adapted to the harsh and dry conditions of Big Sky Country. The unpredictable weather can make outdoor lawn maintenance a burden, while the semi-arid climate makes growing a dense, green yard difficult. Consider hardscaping your backyard to add sustainable visual interest while eliminating the need for weekly maintenance and watering and reducing your landscape’s fire risk.
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are man-made features, including:
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are a set-it-and-forget-it choice for your landscape. They don’t require watering, pruning, or mowing. In fact, they don’t require maintenance at all except for an annual cleaning. Be sure to consider materials and location when choosing and installing your hardscapes. Keep wooden structures away from vegetation inside Zone 2 of your home’s survivable space. Stone hardscapes and garden paths make great additions to Zone 1.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscapes:
\n\n\n\nAccording to the National Park Service, humans cause almost 85% of all wildfires in the the U.S. Creating defensible space, maintaining your landscape, and planting fire-resistant species are small steps you can take to help increase the survivability of your property while using common sense and adopting fire-smart habits to decrease Montana’s chances of wildfires.
\n\n\n\nFire-smart habits include:
\n\n\n\nYes. Your roof comprises two-thirds of your home’s outer structure, and it is its most vulnerable component. It can easily catch fire from floating embers. Select a Class A roofing material for the best fire resistance and limit the length of eaves and overhangs.
Montana’s fire season runs from May through October, but wildfires can occur at any time under the right conditions.
In Montana, human negligence from debris burning, campfires, or landscaping and farm equipment cause 75% of all wildfires.
Fire-prone regions like Big Sky Country are arid, and drought-resistant landscaping performs best under these conditions. Switching to drought-resistant landscaping means less time, effort, water, weeding, mowing, and pests. In steppe climates like Montana where average rainfall is less than 15 inches per year, water conservation is important. Consider integrating our drought-resistant landscaping tips into your fire-resistant landscape.
\n\n\n\nFire-resistant landscaping is only a small part of your fire preparedness plan. From designing evacuation routes to creating emergency supply kits and securing furry family members, there is a lot to consider.
Give yourself peace of mind and check one thing off your to-do list. Let Wikilawn connect you with a local landscaping company that can handle your fire-resistant landscape design.
Main Photo by: Jeremy Levine / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
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