![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass-1-1.jpg\")
When the delightful spring season kicks in, Virginia Beach residents look to make the most of their green yard by throwing parties or playing games, such as lawn bowls. On the other hand, some might feel less optimistic with a tired and grim-looking turf. Since Virginia lies in the transition zone, the best grass types […]
\n","content":"\nWhen the delightful spring season kicks in, Virginia Beach residents look to make the most of their green yard by throwing parties or playing games, such as lawn bowls. On the other hand, some might feel less optimistic with a tired and grim-looking turf. Since Virginia lies in the transition zone, the best grass types for Virginia Beach include cool- and warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nTransition zone homeowners enjoy a moderate climate with hot summers and cold winters. Because Virginia Beach is in the southeasternmost part of the transition zone, the warmer weather makes warm-season grasses the popular pick. The upcoming sections will help you learn more about these grass types and their characteristics.
\n\n\n\nIn this article
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs a rule of thumb, selecting the right cool- or warm-season grass based on your planting zone is vital.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses thrive when the average daytime temperature is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They actively grow in early spring and fall, entering a dormancy period in summer and winter. Cool-season grasses grow in the Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and most of the Northeastern regions.
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, warm-season grasses thrive when daytime temperatures range from 75 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. They actively grow in late spring and summer, entering winter dormancy when temperatures drop below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm-season grass performs well in humid regions like the Gulf and Southeast.
\n\n\n\nVirginia Beach homeowners enjoy a moderate climate, allowing them to choose from either of the following grass types:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is a warm-season grass that thrives in mild climates, making it ideal for transition zones like Virginia Beach. Compared to other warm-season grass, it has the slowest growth rate. Centipedegrass needs proper soil preparation and planting conditions in order to thrive. It has a relatively shallow root system, and spreads laterally via stolons. Unfortunately, its low traffic tolerance means you need to avoid some of those intense lawn games.
\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\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Levin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a versatile grass that is adaptable to a wide range of climates. It is well-suited in southern transitional areas where cool- and warm-season grasses meet their climate limits.
\n\n\n\nSometimes called ‘bunchgrass’, tall fescue grows in clumps and spreads primarily through tillers. This makes it easy to contain and keep out of flower beds. If you enjoy lawn games with your family and friends, then the Kentucky 31 tall fescue variety is a good option that tolerates high traffic.
\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![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bermudagrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bidgee / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass, commonly known as wiregrass, is the fastest growing turfgrass used on lawns. It grows actively from late spring through hot summer months. Unlike other grass types, bermudagrass spreads by both stolons and rhizomes. It is not known for its severe cold tolerance, and can recover quickly if damaged. Bermudagrass produces a dense, light to dark green turf with excellent wear and salt tolerance.
\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\nSt. Augustinegrass is ideal for those living along the coast, including Virginia Beach. There are no seeds for this type of grass, so they can only be established as sod or grass plugs. If you’re looking for a tropical aesthetic, St. Augustinegrass has thick blades that don’t grow very dense. Despite its low traffic tolerance, this species is the most shade-tolerant of all the warm-season grasses.
\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![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nChoosing zoysiagrass will give you a beautiful, dense lawn with little maintenance. It stands up to heat and heavy foot traffic, though it is less drought-tolerant than bermudagrass. It is a slow grower, but can be an aggressive spreader that takes over weeds and other plants. To keep zoysiagrass from forming a dense mat of thatch, core aeration in the early summer is highly recommended.
\n\n\n\nOverall, zoysiagrass is suitable for families that use their lawns for games and entertainment.
\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 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 are more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is the best adapted turfgrass used for lawns across Virginia. In addition to the positive factors mentioned above, there are over 100 cultivars of turf-type fescues available for Virginia homeowners to choose from.
Zoysiagrass is arguably the best low-maintenance grass for your lawn. Thanks to its deep root system, it is versatile and able to grow in various conditions. Despite being a warm-season grass, it is a highly popular choice among Virginia Beach residents.
Sports-turf grasses are usually the ‘toughest’, as they would obviously need to endure heavy use. Bermudagrass is one of the best options for athletic fields due to its rapid recovery and growth. It is a warm-season grass that highly tolerates drought. One downside is that it grows very poorly in the shade.
Virginia Beach sits well in the transition zone. In addition to various cultivars, a mix of cool- and warm-season grass can thrive comfortably in the area. Before choosing a certain grass type, you should consider your property type, yard size, and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nOnce you’ve selected the most suitable grass, you might want to add some native Virginia Beach plants to help boost the ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nLawn maintenance may sometimes be a difficult task, and some homeowners prefer leaving it to the pros. Contact a local lawn care professional to help you get a healthy, lush green lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: JERRYE & ROY KLOTZ, M.D. / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Virginia Beach, VA","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5247776365946633,"src":"/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/1789c/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/107df/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/293e9/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/f2cbb/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/1789c/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/c26c2/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/1dd6e/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/67b76/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.webp 320w,\n/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/8df11/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.webp 500w,\n/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/98a65/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.webp 800w,\n/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/1dd6e/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.webp 960w,\n/static/2c85d5ee3625d470ce5e857898e32ea4/3cc96/lawn-in-virginia-beach-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Virginia Beach, VA | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"With a variety of cool- and warm-season grasses to choose from, the following article will help you explore the best grass types for Virginia Beach."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"90807d2f-a2df-50be-892b-8d966e9b56ad","slug":"best-yard-games","path":"/lawn-care/best-yard-games/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Ruma Akter","id":"b4adb332-066f-5309-a11a-ada9d71b73f7","path":"/author/opushaon10/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ebb2426fcf700731e458d89422adc475?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"cb2b47be-d0ca-5bee-88fc-9bb625c184bd","name":"Outdoor","count":6,"path":"/category/outdoor/"}],"date":"October 22nd, 2019","excerpt":"Remember the good old days, before our phones became our primary tool for recreation? Back then, family games ruled summer in the yard, and no one would dream of not owning a game set to bust out along with the barbecue. It’s time to bring back the good old days by bringing out the best […]
\n","content":"\nRemember the good old days, before our phones became our primary tool for recreation? Back then, family games ruled summer in the yard, and no one would dream of not owning a game set to bust out along with the barbecue. It’s time to bring back the good old days by bringing out the best yard games.
\n\n\n\nExercising is becoming rare, starting in childhood. Pediatric occupational therapist Angela Hanscom says, “Ideally, kids should be playing outside three hours each day.” She also believes the skills gained in play help children learn how to make friends and successfully interact with others.
\n\n\n\nSo how do you pick the lawn games the whole family will enjoy? As long as you have two functional thumbs and an Amazon account, a world of yard games new and old await you.
\n\n\n\nWhat baby boomer doesn’t remember growing up playing badminton? All you need is a net, birdies, and racquets. Portable badminton sets allow you to take the game to the neighborhood park or a friend’s house. Bocce ball is another portable game that comes with a carrying case. It’s history dates back to ancient Egypt, and it’s a national pastime in France and can be played on a court or a lawn. Pack it up and take it to your next tailgate party.
![\"Cornhole\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/cornhole-game-va-state-parks-cc20.jpg\")
No tailgate party or camping trip is complete without a cornhole set. This classic game is arguably the most popular bean bag toss game of all time. The rules are simple: Throw bean bags toward corn hole boards, aiming for the hole. A deceptively simple, undeniably great game.
![\"Alice](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/703px-Alice_par_John_Tenniel_30-703x1024.png\")
While some form of croquet has been around since the 1300s, modern croquet caught on in 17th century England. It was such a craze that, according to the London Telegraph, “only tobacco smoke spread faster through the English empire.”
\n\n\n\nIt maintained its popularity with help from “Alice in Wonderland” and the movie “Heathers,” and no wonder: It’s a cutthroat yard game disguised as a mild-mannered, upper-crust entertainment. Play on a large lawn, but in a version of extreme croquet, almost anything goes. Six players play at a time. If you prefer a more aerobic game, grab a frisbee and head out to the backyard. You’ll need good hand-eye coordination, and a willingness to jump and the flying disk. Step it up, and get a team together for a game of ultimate Frisbee.
The original game of lawn darts was a longtime favorite but was deemed too dangerous to sell after one accident too many. Fortunately for us, there are versions of the game available with weighted darts that lack the metal spikes that made the original so dangerous. Same old fun, without the trips to the ER.
\n\n\n\n![\"Giant](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/o0PLf_OAOPspE90OwvleOEu20xlZVUssnM4QA_PH52zEtbcfekkpYQcXF6r6KftFcW17a_KhqZDVi-DVWNWgKT_LXBQkA9W2QwdeHqjl6gvu0yaKQsCFCjsshA5z69ueEoYstDM4\")
If you’re not interested in the games your parents played, a new wave of yard games is making the backyard party rounds.
\n\n\n\nFlickin’ Chicken is a new twist on the classic ringtoss that features effortlessly easy rules made to be broken. And you get to toss rubber chickens. Great for the whole family and little athletic ability required. Another kids’ favorite is giant connect four. It’s not the most portable lawn game, but worth the trouble.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7QYKCpiJygqKnh9EciSJOy0rGxyNr-BcDHxqlmMoFq-bhJeVi3q_J3FMhS5Sv6tvrC0_M8ViWDTRRGX6DNBEqNl4KDhFXTmnrNI9JzFJpvdZm9QlzGjbVg4f98vl0eii99FB0SFZ\")
You’ll need a flat yard, or at least a flat surface if you want to play giant Jenga. Just like the tabletop version, only much bigger, this is one of those outdoor games that you can play with two or 20 people.
\n\n\n\nAnother great game for parties and camping trips, ladder toss is a game where you toss bolas (which look like large golf balls) at a “ladder” for points. Sometimes known as ladder golf and ladder ball, play this game in groups of four with two teams of two.
\n\n\n\n![\"Spikeball\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/RSKC9-DO-JjE_wvZ64yGF3038FC5FbmQoiEHm2xxSOBxOW6xYhoYLPPgcOGDAl_jm-wIJ_9vBuXK1e8yXgNlLWWChRC2fivuCm0XvH7pPRMsBqt-K842EUIxACP6vYlS9kD7oCue\")
Looking for a twist on the traditional volleyball game? Try your hand (or hands) at spikeball. This reinvented game from the ’70s got a boost from appearing on the TV show “Shark Tank.” A cross between volleyball and four square, it’s best played two-on-two. Teams take turns bouncing the ball off a mini trampoline-like net and your opponent tries to return it. You score points when the other team misses.
\n\n\n\nStart by asking yourself the following:
\n\n\n\nSo put away the cellphone and the hammock, and break out the games. We promise more fun at your next get-together! And your body will thank you for the physical activity.
\n","title":"The Best Yard Games","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5005861664712778,"src":"/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/1789c/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.jpg","srcSet":"/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/107df/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.jpg 320w,\n/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/293e9/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.jpg 500w,\n/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/f2cbb/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.jpg 800w,\n/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/1789c/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.jpg 960w,\n/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/356ef/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/1dd6e/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/67b76/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.webp 320w,\n/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/8df11/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.webp 500w,\n/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/98a65/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.webp 800w,\n/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/1dd6e/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.webp 960w,\n/static/332e3ed31d75bf7cc4b11797bb7a8f93/93f70/boy-playing-badminton-in-park-pexelsl-2214044.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Best Yard Games | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"0eccde0b-5cfd-55ed-a957-e6374546393e","slug":"water-restrictions-austin-round-rock-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/water-restrictions-austin-round-rock-texas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?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 28th, 2019","excerpt":"People in the Austin area enjoy mild winters in a city that offers endless opportunities for entertainment and recreation. But the mellow winters come at a price: extreme summer temperatures that come saddled with water restrictions. These regulations can leave homeowners feeling like they have to choose between a healthy lawn and hefty fines. Read […]
\n","content":"\nPeople in the Austin area enjoy mild winters in a city that offers endless opportunities for entertainment and recreation. But the mellow winters come at a price: extreme summer temperatures that come saddled with water restrictions. These regulations can leave homeowners feeling like they have to choose between a healthy lawn and hefty fines. Read on for a guide to water restrictions in Austin/Round Rock.
\n\n\n\nNo matter how much rain Central Texas receives, water restrictions are typically imposed in summer, when the water levels in lakes Travis and Buchanan — the area’s sources of potable water — fall under a specified level.
\n\n\n\nThe restrictions are based on a few variables, including property type, watering method, and property address. Here’s a breakdown of the water restriction stages:
\n\n\n\nAt this point, water use is severely restricted. Your plants are on their own, as all outdoor irrigation is prohibited.
\n\n\n\nAlso banned at this stage are all car washing, patio misting equipment and power washers. You can’t refill your pool. Ornamental fountains have to be turned off, too, unless doing so would kill aquatic life.
\n\n\n\nWater restrictions are no joke, and enforcement is fairly common. In Stage 2, residential violations get slapped with a $75 fine the first time around. Fines go up to $500 for the fourth violation in a year.
\n\n\n\nThe higher the stage, the higher the fine. In Stage 4, the fourth violation will cost as much as $2,000.
\n\n\n\nWhile water restrictions are nothing to scoff at, the reality is that most yards don’t need more than a deep watering every five days. Landscapes can be drought-proofed by using xeriscaping and installing native landscape plants. You may also consider a rain barrel to harvest rainwater as well as reducing your garden watering in lean times.
\n\n\n\nYes, the schedules can be daunting. The good news is that after a season of generous rain, it’s unlikely the area will go past conservation level restrictions this year. Remember: water conservation is not a punishment, but rather an agreement we all make to preserve our most vital natural resource.
If you’re not sure about whether there are currently water restrictions in your area, check the Austin or Round Rock websites.
Interested in learning more about gardening and lawn care in Austin? Visit our Austin TX lawn care page.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: Lower Colorado River Authority.
\n","title":"Water Restrictions in Austin, Round Rock, Texas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4912280701754386,"src":"/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/73f1e/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg","srcSet":"/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/107df/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg 320w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/293e9/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg 500w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/f2cbb/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg 800w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/73f1e/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg 850w","srcWebp":"/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/05ed0/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/67b76/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp 320w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/8df11/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp 500w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/98a65/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp 800w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/05ed0/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp 850w","sizes":"(max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Water Restrictions in Austin, Round Rock, Texas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"b597dfca-8184-5210-a8e6-a966639e1a48","slug":"lawn-chemicals-danger-pets","path":"/lawn-care/lawn-chemicals-danger-pets/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"John Freedman","id":"2b0fdd6b-62df-527d-a469-37ab1935839b","path":"/author/joeyjoeyfarruggio-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/85c5c4009d774dbcc0eacb7cae07960a?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"October 24th, 2019","excerpt":"A fenced-in backyard brings a lot of freedom to pet owners. Just open the door and let them out or install a small pet-door so they can come and go as they please. But with that freedom comes a dilemma. The pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizer that provide you with a green lawn can make dogs […]
\n","content":"\nA fenced-in backyard brings a lot of freedom to pet owners. Just open the door and let them out or install a small pet-door so they can come and go as they please. But with that freedom comes a dilemma. The pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizer that provide you with a green lawn can make dogs and cats sick, cause bladder cancer, or even kill them. So how do you keep your dog safe and maintain your lawn care?
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/DMbAzeVjYSWRwsU6-8muZ9Akrs65C9QhhxuaKMcN6k4Vj0Kb4QadsdTaDWVnis4wJ09VuuL_Svu63hPLX7aLCROhoDn2lZno1PpZygGKJVO-6SmmEeiIIcwhgpkkgo2CL7k5sJ4B\")
Your yard is the first thing people see when they come to your home. An emerald-green, thick lawn makes your property stand out and — admit it — makes you proud. When your grass gets sick, you treat it. Sometimes with chemicals. If you have pets, those chemicals can be dangerous. Dogs don’t just walk in your lawn. They roll in it, eat plants and blades of grass, and put their muzzles in it, sniffing around. When they lick themselves, chemicals on the lawn go straight into their system. So anything that’s on your grass gets on, and in, your dog (cats, too). Some of the most common lawn treatments are some of the most dangerous for pets.
\n\n\n\nSome of these chemicals lawn care companies use are mixed with bone meal and blood, so dogs and cats love the taste. Metaldehyde comes in pellet form and looks like dog food. It’s also flavored with molasses to attract snails. Unfortunately, it also attracts your dog.
\n\n\n\nOrganophosphates are organic compounds found in insecticides. They can harm an animal’s brain and nervous system, and cause gastrointestinal irritation. Dogs are exposed when they eat a plant that’s been treated or inhale the chemicals. Warning signs include paralysis, weakness, trouble breathing, and excessive salivation.
\n\n\n\nAvoiding these items is best, but that’s not always possible. The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center says if you must use them, there are steps you can take to keep your pets safe.
\n\n\n\nWhen it’s time to clean up, go to a designated area so excess pesticide and wash water don’t contaminate an animal’s drinking water. Pesticide education specialist Cecil Tharp of Montana State University Extention says, “Keep drainage from cleaning sprayers out of water supplies and streams and do not let animals into areas where sprayers are cleaned.” If a dog drinks from a contaminated puddle, it will get sick.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/960px-Armed_Forces_Veterinary_Carries_out_Dental_Work_on_a_Military_Working_Dog_MOD_45158956.jpg\")
If your pet is showing signs of poisoning, like vomiting, seizures, muscle tremors, excessive salvation, trouble walking, or trouble breathing, get them to the veterinarian ASAP! You can also call the ASPCA’s Animal Control Center. Don’t induce vomiting unless you have explicitly been told to do so. Some toxins can cause even more damage if the pet throws it up. And never give a home remedy without first speaking to the vet.
\n\n\n\nIf you know what toxin your pet was exposed to or you have a sample, take it with you to the vet. This will help the doctor better treat the animal.
\n","title":"Lawn Chemicals That Pose Dangers for Pets","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5005861664712778,"src":"/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/1789c/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/107df/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.jpg 320w,\n/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/293e9/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.jpg 500w,\n/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/f2cbb/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.jpg 800w,\n/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/1789c/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.jpg 960w,\n/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/356ef/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/1dd6e/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/67b76/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.webp 320w,\n/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/8df11/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.webp 500w,\n/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/98a65/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.webp 800w,\n/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/1dd6e/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.webp 960w,\n/static/c7d20ad164966dbf96c63a0f11594a10/93f70/sad-dog-in-grass-needpix-2723108_1280.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Chemicals That Pose Dangers for Pets | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"7450a5c7-8f60-5887-90f7-256b3940be0e","slug":"watering-restrictions-tampa","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/watering-restrictions-tampa/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"dc593a91-bb7f-5961-b8a5-96bfdf119898","name":"Tampa","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/tampa/"}],"date":"July 30th, 2019","excerpt":"Every sip of water you (or your lawn) takes in Tampa comes from a unique blend of surface, underground and seawater. It’s a resource protected by year round watering rules.
\n","content":"\nIt’s hard to imagine not having enough water to drink and bathe, but dry spells can severely impact reserves in Florida communities. With summertime temperatures in the 90s, watering restrictions in Tampa are in place to keep the taps running for everyone.
\n\n\n\nTampa is unique in that its utility, Tampa Bay Water, is the only utility in the United States to get its supply by blending three sources:
\n\n\n\nWhile having a multitude of sources spreads the risk of ever running dry, each of the sources has its limits, so the Tampa Bay area imposes year-round water restrictions.
\n\n\n\nThe city of Tampa has specific rules in place for watering the grass.
\n\n\n\nThe hot sun draws moisture into Tampa’s already-humid air, so it’s best to water between midnight and 8 a.m. (Watering during the heat of the day invites weeds and wastes water.) The city of Tampa prohibits turning on the sprinklers during the day. The watering day schedule applies to permanent irrigation systems, as well as moveable sprinklers.
\n\n\n\nTampa’s watering restrictions are the same for newly established landscapes, as well as chemical treatments and irrigation system upgrades. But you may hand-water your garden, wash cars, run a cycling fountain and power wash without restrictions … just try not to waste any water. Reclaimed water is not restricted but only use what you need.
\n\n\n\nOutlying areas outside of Tampa, such as Hillsboro, also face watering restrictions. The schedule for Hillsboro County is as follows:
\n\n\n\nThe Southwest Florida Water Management District handles restrictions for several cities in the Tampa area. Unless your city or county imposes more-restrictive water rules, the SFWMD rules are in effect. The rules differ in surrounding neighborhoods. In Temple Terrace, for example, homeowners with even-numbered addresses may water their lawns Thursdays and Sundays. Odd-numbered addresses may turn on the sprinklers Wednesdays and Saturdays. Watering is only permitted before 10 a.m., and after 4 p.m. Common areas may irrigate rights-of-way on Tuesdays and Fridays.
\n\n\n\nBlowing off the city of Tampa’s water rules can cost you anywhere from $100 to $450 per violation and require a court appearance. Tampa’s Water Use Restrictions Enforcement Plan assesses fines of $100 for the first citation, $200 for the second. Then, because you apparently haven’t gotten the message, you’ll face a $450 fine and a trip to court. And if you fail to show up to court, the water department can cut off your service completely.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses for a Florida lawn include Zoysia, buffalograss, bahiagrass, and St. Augustine. Planting a drought-tolerant grass, such as buffalo, ensures its hardiness when rainfall is sparse and the sprinklers are off. Lawns that can best handle periods of drought have deep, spreading root systems.
\n\n\n\nWatering the lawn less frequently but for longer periods is better for the roots. Watering too often prevents the roots from reaching deep into the soil.
\n\n\n\nApply a half-inch of water when about a third or half of the grass shows signs of wilting. When the blades start to fold, turn a blue-gray color, and don’t spring back after being walked on, the lawn is telling you it’s thirsty.
\n\n\n\nWant to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Tampa? Visit our Tampa Lawn Care page.
With its picturesque landscapes and prestigious institutions like Harvard and UMass, Massachusetts boasts a wealth of luscious green lawns. However, certain challenges can arise amidst this verdant beauty, from pests and diseases to unpredictable weather and irregular maintenance practices, leading to damage and the need for reseeding. To achieve a vibrant and resilient turf, it […]
\n","content":"\nWith its picturesque landscapes and prestigious institutions like Harvard and UMass, Massachusetts boasts a wealth of luscious green lawns. However, certain challenges can arise amidst this verdant beauty, from pests and diseases to unpredictable weather and irregular maintenance practices, leading to damage and the need for reseeding.
\n\n\n\nTo achieve a vibrant and resilient turf, it becomes imperative to master the art of timing – knowing when to plant grass seed in Massachusetts. By understanding the optimal windows of opportunity, you can have a thriving lawn that will be the pride of your property.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"Raindrops](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/rain-on-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Johannes Plenio from Pexels / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIn the Bay State, the best time to plant grass seeds is early fall – specifically from late August to early September (Aug. 15 – Sept. 15). Fall offers several advantages for successful grass seed germination and establishment.
\n\n\n\nException: Zoysiagrass is the only warm-season grass that grows in Massachusetts, and it’s an exception to the fall planting rule. If you plan to use this grass type for your lawn, plant seeds after the last frost, usually in late spring or early summer. This is the optimal seed germination time for Zoysiagrass, and once grown, it thrives in hot weather.
\n\n\n\n![\"Snow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/snow-in-massachusetts-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: DenisTangneyJr / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhile fall is generally the most recommended time for seeding lawns, there are specific reasons why the other seasons may not be optimal for seeding. Here’s a breakdown of the challenges associated with each season:
\n\n\n\nSpring may be your second-best ideal time for planting due to milder temperatures and increased rainfall. But inconsistent weather patterns and fluctuating temperatures during these months, especially during early spring, will make you think otherwise. Plus, soil temperatures aren’t warm enough until April or May, and the air temperatures get very high by the end of May or early June.
\n\n\n\nThese conditions can make it challenging for newly seeded grass to establish strong root systems before the onset of hot summer weather. And since weeds tend to thrive during spring, they can compete with the newly germinated grass for resources and hinder its growth.
\n\n\n\nDue to cold temperatures and frost, this time of year is not suitable for seeding. If your yard is covered in snow, it would be impossible to seed your lawn. And even without snow on the ground, new seeds require consistent soil temperatures above a certain threshold for germination to occur.
\n\n\n\nMost lawns in the state have cool-season grasses, which tend to go dormant when temperatures rise. Therefore, planting in the summer leads to poor seed germination and death of the seedlings.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, the high temperatures and increased evaporation rates during this season can lead to soil drying out quickly, making it challenging to keep the seedbed consistently moist, which is essential for germination.
\n\n\n\n![\"Seed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/seed-spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jon Rehg / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIn Massachusetts, planting grass seeds is relatively easy. For a beautiful lawn, follow these simple steps:
\n\n\n\n![\"Installing](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/sod.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ikostudio / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nPlanting grass seed isn’t hard, but sometimes the seed doesn’t take, and that’s frustrating. Before you pull your hair out, try these grass seed planting tips:
\n\n\n\nOnce your lawn is established, mow it often to stimulate root and tiller growth. And remember to follow the 1/3 rule.
\n\n\n\n![\"Kingston,](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/8401010173_5c22d918a5_k-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Doug Kerr / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nMassachusetts has sandy, acidic soil, which can be a challenge for some grasses. To cut down on maintenance, choose one of the five best grass seed types for Massachusetts.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fine-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Paolinio / Pixabay / License
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is one of the best grass seeds you can plant on your Massachusetts lawn due to its exceptional adaptability to the region’s diverse environmental conditions. With its tolerance for shade, drought, and poor soil quality, this cool-season grass thrives in various settings. Unless temperatures soar above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, fine fescue lawns stay green all summer long.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/5552536384_1bc90958b3_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ferran Pestaña / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWith its exceptional durability and moderate tolerance to foot traffic, Kentucky bluegrass creates a lush, dense turf that can withstand the harsh New England winters. It can easily recover from damage and fill in bare spots. However, its short roots can make absorbing essential nutrients and water challenging, so it’s often mixed with other grass types like fescues or ryegrass.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lolium_perenne_TK_2021-06-26_1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: T. Kebert / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass creates an aesthetically pleasing turf with its fine texture and vibrant green color. It’s highly resistant to pests and diseases and boasts exceptional tolerance to cold temperatures and foot traffic. This cool-season grass has rapid germination and establishment speed, making it an excellent option for overseeding lawns. It’s also used as a companion or nurse grass to steady delicate grass types.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is unique from other popular Massachusetts grass types because of its shiny, wide, ribbed, dark green coarse leaves. With its excellent cold tolerance, it can survive frigid winters. But because of its bunched growth, it’s best used as a stand-alone grass. If mixed with other grass types, your lawn becomes patchy. It may require overseeding but not dethatching.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhile this warm-season grass may not be the best grass seed choice for planting in Massachusetts due to the state’s cooler climate, some homeowners still opt to use it. It thrives in regions with long, hot summers and mild winters, prefers full sun, and requires high temperatures to grow and establish properly. Hidden under snow, it will go dormant in the winter.
\n\n\n\nNot all grass seed is blue, but blue grass seed has a chemical coating. The coating helps seed germination, reduces the amount of needed water, and protects the seed from disease.
If you let the grass grow, seed heads will form at the top of a long thin stem, similar to crabgrass or wheat. Each grass type has different-looking seed heads, but they all form similarly.
Technically, yes. But while you can toss grass seeds onto your lawn, using a spreader is better for more even and successful seed distribution. Tossing seeds by hand can result in uneven coverage, leading to patchy or sparse areas of grass growth.
With a spreader, the seeds have a better chance of germinating and establishing a healthy, uniform lawn. It also helps control the amount of seed applied and prevents over-seeding or under-seeding in certain areas.
Once you’ve established your new lawn, keep it healthy by following these tips:
\n\n\n\nIf you want a healthy, robust lawn but don’t have the time to maintain it, you’re not alone. It’s hard work, so many homeowners turn to highly-rated lawn care professionals to handle lawn maintenance. Whether you’re in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Cambridge, Lowell, or somewhere in between, Wikilawn can help you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: DenisTangneyJr / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"When to Plant Grass Seed in Massachusetts","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/1789c/harvard-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/107df/harvard-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/293e9/harvard-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/f2cbb/harvard-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/1789c/harvard-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/c26c2/harvard-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/1dd6e/harvard-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/67b76/harvard-1.webp 320w,\n/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/8df11/harvard-1.webp 500w,\n/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/98a65/harvard-1.webp 800w,\n/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/1dd6e/harvard-1.webp 960w,\n/static/4bdd245d1bc836faabf45dda5df1af29/3cc96/harvard-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"When to Plant Grass Seed in Massachusetts | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Knowing the best grass types is crucial, but you also must know when to plant grass seed in Massachusetts."}}},{"node":{"id":"dea735f1-8417-59bb-8b16-08da260113d3","slug":"tips-winter-lawn-care","path":"/lawn-care/tips-winter-lawn-care/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"October 25th, 2019","excerpt":"Winter may seem like the off-season for lawn care, but that’s not entirely true. There are a few things you can do as colder weather approaches to help your lawn thrive when it gets warm. Winter Lawn Prep Fertilize (cool-season grass). Aerate. Overseed. Mow. Clear the lawn of debris. Minimize foot traffic. When to Fertilize […]
\n","content":"\nWinter may seem like the off-season for lawn care, but that’s not entirely true. There are a few things you can do as colder weather approaches to help your lawn thrive when it gets warm.
\n\n\n\nWhen to fertilize before winter and which fertilizer to use, depends on what type of grass you have. Fall is the best time to fertilize cool-season grasses like fescue and bluegrass. Cool-season grasses grow best in regions with cold winters and hot summers. They’re very common in the upper two-thirds of the United States. Their active growth seasons are spring and fall. Because of this, fall is a great time to fertilize. Some lawn experts recommend two fertilizations in the fall: one in early fall to take advantage of the growing season, then another in late fall, heading into winter An option for the late fall application is a winterizing fertilizer or winterizer. These blends are higher in potassium, which helps make plants more tolerant of the cold. They also contain quick-release nitrogen so the grass can absorb more of it. Apply winterizer in late October or early November, or when the grass has stopped growing but is still green. The fertilizer will stay in the soil and nourish the roots during the winter months.
\n\n\n\nIf you have warm-season grass (Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysiagrass), don’t use winterizing lawn fertilizer. These grasses are more common in the lower third of the United States, where it doesn’t get as cold. You don’t want to encourage growth with a fertilizer right before your grass goes dormant for the winter. Warm-season grasses grow most actively in the summer, so fertilize them in the spring or summer instead.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to aerate is right before your area’s first frost. Aerating allows your lawn to breathe before its long winter’s nap. It’ll also help break up any compacted soil that developed during spring and summer. Once you loosen the compacted soil, air, water, and nutrients can better reach the roots. You can rent an aerator or get a lawn service to do it.
\n\n\n\nOverseeding the dead spots and thinning patches after you aerate allows new grass seed to germinate during the winter months. The type of grass seed you use depends on your existing lawn. You want to be careful not to use too much and to spread the seed evenly. You won’t get a thicker lawn by using too much. This will only cause the seed to struggle and compete for nutrients in the soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GFPgxzRE6hetqS0ORPqNbAiFsiXEMrIJk7ZEk1_lXQTKs0j-nOsTTOb_EVJucY8f4vlIBN0JvJOx-FWZLd4NBHueQ6CEOJyksF58BHOt8oDw_Iujgr1JTAeixg4jfn9iKyuxgKw8\")
Starting in late summer or early fall, lower the blade height on your mower each time you mow. This allows you to gradually cut your grass shorter ahead of winter. Cutting it off all at once can weaken or kill your grass, so only cut the top third of the blade during each mowing session.
\n\n\n\nA shorter lawn will fare better over the winter. It’ll be harder for animals like field mice to burrow in your lawn for warmth. It’ll also help prevent snow mold in areas that get a lot of snow. The Utah State University Extension Department defines snow mold as “fungi that are classified as psychrophilic, or cold-loving, and will attack plants under a layer of snow.” Lawn experts recommend a low-nitrogen lawn fertilizer in late fall to help prevent snow mold.
\n\n\n\nClear your lawn of debris, toys, lawn furniture, and other items before winter begins. Anything you leave on the lawn could damage or kill the grass. This could leave thinner grass or noticeable brown spots in the spring. It’s also a good idea to rake. Dead leaves will become a soggy mess after the first snowfall, leaving you with snow mold in the spring. Mulch your leaves by running your lawn mower over them. This will shred them into smaller pieces, allowing them to decompose into the soil without matting and smothering your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gI9CNa8Wip91PvMiJ7x2TKX2nuSx8ZjF8lDvUiHa83y6WE5irccQ_dTWqb8kw6y4h5tJFvqLDJo90Xaalt1MSrpbiLCsN_Vf20rcZbU6MceWG4QNps6GeLzhZbHycwZBvfu2MT2L\")
While you don’t need to stay off your lawn entirely during the winter, do what you can to avoid creating worn paths through the grass. Keep driveways, walkways, and sidewalks clear of ice and snow so people won’t have to cut through your yard.
\n\n\n\nA good winter lawn care strategy is to maintain a healthy lawn throughout the year. A healthy lawn is better able to brave the colder temperatures, so stay on top of lawn maintenance year-round. Once you’ve completed these winter lawn care duties, you can ease up during the cold weather. Next spring, you’ll be more likely to have a thick, green lawn thanks to your pre-winter efforts.
\n","title":"Tips for Winter Lawn Care","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5005861664712778,"src":"/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/1789c/grass-549064_1280.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/107df/grass-549064_1280.jpg 320w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/293e9/grass-549064_1280.jpg 500w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/f2cbb/grass-549064_1280.jpg 800w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/1789c/grass-549064_1280.jpg 960w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/356ef/grass-549064_1280.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/1dd6e/grass-549064_1280.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/67b76/grass-549064_1280.webp 320w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/8df11/grass-549064_1280.webp 500w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/98a65/grass-549064_1280.webp 800w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/1dd6e/grass-549064_1280.webp 960w,\n/static/3aae970a7b1aeb8dc999022217e5ffb3/93f70/grass-549064_1280.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Tips for Winter Lawn Care | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"9d565c7d-5be4-57ac-84af-5504fb70cd06","slug":"best-native-plants-eastern-washington","path":"/lawn-care/eastern-washington/best-native-plants-eastern-washington/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Austin Geiger is an avid reader and writer. He has loved to read and write from a young age, and does both daily. His favorite subjects are fantasy and comedy, and he despises run-on sentences.","name":"Austin Geiger","id":"69bc552e-2c03-5c38-acc7-562e86f2a201","path":"/author/austin-geiger/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5baab15ab5786cfd4d2372bb580f441c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"df62bd8e-2729-5a1b-a2d2-faec65bfdc9a","name":"Eastern Washington","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/eastern-washington/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 9th, 2023","excerpt":"Native plants are a vital component of the local ecosystem. In your yard, they’re also beautiful low-maintenance blooms that can liven up your outdoor space. Wild areas like Lyons Ferry are full of plants that could look wonderful in your yard or garden, but it can be tough to pick the right ones. Here are […]
\n","content":"\nNative plants are a vital component of the local ecosystem. In your yard, they’re also beautiful low-maintenance blooms that can liven up your outdoor space. Wild areas like Lyons Ferry are full of plants that could look wonderful in your yard or garden, but it can be tough to pick the right ones. Here are some of the best native plants for Eastern Washington to help you make an informed decision.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll discuss:
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_5039631314_ddce7f9f0e_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter O’Connor aka anemoneprojectors / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe common yarrow is a perennial wildflower that’s found throughout the United States. It prefers full sun and tolerates any soil type, and is a low-maintenance drought tolerant plant that doesn’t need a lot of water. It grows large clusters of tiny white flowers that are beloved by many pollinators, making it a great choice for a pollinator garden.
\n\n\n\nIf you decide to plant yarrow, the best place for it may be in a container. It tends to spread if left to its own devices, so keeping it from taking over your garden beds is a priority. It’s also poisonous, so keeping it in a container will let you put it out of reach of children and pets.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist but well-drained, all soil types
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Pine
\n\n\n\nBloom Timet: Late spring, summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested; for humans, may cause skin irritation or increase photosensitivity if touched
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Amelancheir_alnifolia_-_Saskatoon_serviceberry_-_Flickr_-_Matt_Lavin-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Levin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nSaskatoon Serviceberry is a deciduous shrub native to Eastern Washington, one that can grow up to 15 feet tall. It can handle full or partial sun, likes clay or loam soils, is low-maintenance and drought tolerant, and has reasonable water needs. Its white flowers give way to edible berries in the spring and the plant attracts many pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThere are a few different ways you can use serviceberry in your landscape. Its variable size means that, depending on the height of the individual plant, it can be an accent plant or a border hedge. Since their roots aren’t invasive, they can be placed closer to your house than most to be used as a foundation plant or privacy screen.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist but well-drained acidic or neutral soil with clay or loamy composition
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: None
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid spring to winter
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 15 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: The seeds inside its fruit contain compounds that are toxic to dogs; the fruit itself and the plant it grows from are not harmful to humans or animals
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/douglas-gfb632a4a1_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nDouglas Fir is an evergreen conifer tree native to Eastern Washington. This mighty specimen can grow up to 80 feet tall on the high end, and at 40 feet, even the shorter specimens can tower over your yard. This tree can handle full or partial sun and can grow in a variety of different soil types. It’s low-maintenance and doesn’t require too much water, making it ideal for a low-maintenance landscape.
\n\n\n\nDue to Douglas fir’s immense height, it tends to dominate any landscape it’s planted in, so your options are limited in regards to where and how you use it. If you don’t want it to be a centerpiece, the best place for it is close to the edge of your yard, where it can provide shade and shelter without taking over your outdoor space.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist but well-drained acidic or neutral soil with a clay, loamy, or sandy composition
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Pine
\n\n\n\nSeason of Interest: Year-round
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 40 to 80 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Pine nuts and pollen may set off allergies
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artemisia_tridentata_sagebrush_bush-1024x744.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dcrjsr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nSagebrush is an evergreen shrub native to the Eastern Washington area. It’s a low-maintenance and drought tolerant plant that likes full sun, has minimal water needs, and prefers either loamy or sandy soil. Sagebrush has bright green foliage and stems full of flowers in different colors such as yellow or purple. It makes for a great ground cover for a landscape or can be used as a screening or accent plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained soil with a loamy or sandy composition
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Spicy, bitter
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Early spring
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 3 to 15 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Skin contact can cause dermatitis
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/8883226694_90d9114e5d_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Oregon State University / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWild Mock Orange, also known by the common name Lewis’ Mock Orange, is a deciduous shrub native to Eastern Washington. It’s a hardy low-maintenance and drought tolerant plant that can handle full or partial sun, grows in a variety of soil types, and has minimal water needs. It has beautiful white flowers that resemble orange blossoms and attract many pollinators, such as butterflies.
\n\n\n\nMock Orange is a versatile plant that can be used in many different ways in your landscape. You can plant them in containers or in the yard itself as an accent or foundation plant, or use it as shrubbery. It’s a great choice for a pollinator garden and has good resistance to pests.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist but well-drained soil with a chalk, loamy, or sandy composition
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Orange, pineapple
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Late spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 5 to 12 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to cats
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Many](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Phlox_speciosa_1874.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Walter Seigmund / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nShowy phlox is a native Eastern Washington perennial wildflower. It has dark green leaves and gorgeous purple flowers with heart-shaped petals and, like many phlox, attracts pollinators of all sorts. This makes it a great choice for a pollinator garden. Even if you don’t have one, showy phlox goes great in flower beds or containers.
\n\n\n\nWhile showy phlox is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require a lot of water, it is a bit picky with its soil and sun. It likes only partial sunlight with either clay or sandy soil.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist but well-drained acidic or neutral soil with a clay or sandy composition
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Three](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/25383546147_877523e7f5_c-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWestern aster is a native Eastern Washington perennial wildflower, one that’s low-maintenance and drought tolerant, has low water needs, can handle either full or partial sun, and tolerates all soil types. It has lovely purple flowers with bright yellow centers that attract many pollinators.
\n\n\n\nWestern aster are an especially good choice for a pollinator garden since their late blooming time means they provide pollen and nectar when many other plants have closed up shop. But they’ll still look fantastic in your outdoor space’s flower beds or containers regardless of what kind of garden you have.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, acidic to neutral soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Balsam
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid spring to mid autumn
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/28515122621_4d0c2f762a_k-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nVelvet lupine is a perennial wildflower native to Eastern Washington. It’s a low-maintenance drought tolerant plant with minimal water needs that likes full sun and clay or sandy soil. This plant grows a raceme of purple flowers that fade to brown shortly before producing seeds. This lupine not only attracts a multitude of pollinators, but it also helps pull nitrogen from the air and into the soil.
\n\n\n\nVelvet lupine isn’t quite suited for flower beds, but it can be planted in containers and makes a good accent plant. If you do plant it, keep in mind that it is toxic to both humans and animals. Take the proper precautions to ensure both your safety and that of others.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist but well-drained soil with a clay or sandy composition
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Early summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to humans, pets, and livestock
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Arctostaphylos-uva-ursi-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sten Porse / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nRed bearberry is an evergreen shrub native to Eastern Washington. It’s a hardy low-maintenance plant that’s very drought tolerant, doesn’t need a lot of water, can handle full or partial sunlight, and likes loamy or sandy soil. It grows red berries that are mealy but edible, though the plant may have adverse effects when consumed in large quantities.
\n\n\n\nRed bearberry grows beautiful red flowers in mid spring that attract many pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which makes it a great choice for a pollinator garden. The best way to use it in your landscaping is likely to plant it in containers or use it as an accent plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 2 to 6
\n\n\n\nSun: Full to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained acidic soil with a loamy or sandy composition
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Autumn leaves, pine
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: Mid spring
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 6 inches to 1 foot
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Potentially harmful in large quantities
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nWhen trying to choose native plants for your landscape in Eastern Washington, take a look at the environmental conditions it has to offer. How much sunlight do you get? What kind of soil do you have, i.e., what is its pH balance and composition? If you don’t know these things, find out and choose from among plants that thrive with them.
\n\n\n\nAnother good criterion is Eastern Washington’s USDA Hardiness Zone. The hardiness zones are the USDA’s method of labeling which areas experience which average minimum temperatures. Eastern Washington is in zone 6a, which means that its average minimum temperature is negative 5 to negative 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Every plant on this list can handle zone 6a.
\n\n\n\nAll of the plants on this list are native to the northern area of Eastern Washington, though Western aster is more scarce than the rest.
\n\n\n\nJust like Northeast Washington, every plant on this list is native to Southeast Washington, and Western Aster is rarer than the rest.
\n\n\n\nWestern Washington’s native plants include:
\n\n\n\nIf you want to keep some toxic plants in your outdoor space, it should be perfectly safe to do so as long as you take the proper precautions. Sequestering them from the rest, clearly marking them, and not allowing pets or small children in your garden if you have them are just a few of the ways you can keep yourselves and others safe with poisonous plants in your landscape.
\n\n\n\nIf you want plants that are poisonous, but still don’t feel comfortable with the risk despite safeguards, that’s fine. You should be able to find several plants that look similar but are perfectly harmless to use as a substitute for the toxic varieties you want.
\n\n\n\nIf your landscape is ill-suited to your favorite native plants, you’re not without options. You can try to change things in your landscape within reason to suit it better, such as removing some branches from trees that are providing shade. If the soil is the issue, you can also keep the plant in a container instead of in a garden bed.
\n\n\n\nIf you need ideas for new native plants to put in your landscape in Eastern Washington, there’s no better place to look than its natural spaces. Take a walk through areas like Ancient Lakes Trail and take pictures of some native plants that you’d like in your backyard. However, to ensure you’re obtaining your native plants safely and ethically, never take them straight from the wild.
\n\n\n\nWhen shopping for new native plants, look for native plant nurseries endorsed by the Washington Native Plant Society.
\n\n\n\nIf you need more general help with lawn care, landscaping, or other outdoor services, contact a Washington lawn care pro near you. We have trusted lawn care pros in Spokane and other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Western aster / Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"9 Best Native Plants for Eastern Washington","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/1789c/western-aster.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/107df/western-aster.jpg 320w,\n/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/293e9/western-aster.jpg 500w,\n/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/f2cbb/western-aster.jpg 800w,\n/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/1789c/western-aster.jpg 960w,\n/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/c26c2/western-aster.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/1dd6e/western-aster.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/67b76/western-aster.webp 320w,\n/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/8df11/western-aster.webp 500w,\n/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/98a65/western-aster.webp 800w,\n/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/1dd6e/western-aster.webp 960w,\n/static/1bbe545daf298bcc4678d55e8e664d21/3cc96/western-aster.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Best Native Plants for Eastern Washington | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Native plants are an important part of your local environment. Read here to find good native blooms for Eastern Washington state."}}},{"node":{"id":"278def07-8149-5634-b9f1-24f73f3cf7cf","slug":"spring-lawn-care-tips-columbus","path":"/lawn-care/oh/columbus/spring-lawn-care-tips-columbus/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Andie Ioó is a writer for LawnStarter. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, sports, and trying out new healthy recipes. She also loves reading and watching reruns of classic '90s TV shows.","name":"Andie Ioo","id":"00424d9e-71f7-5a65-a764-eb85c6210e90","path":"/author/andie-ioo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c7090b8e789516e6df2e9bd1a57a1ece?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":"April 12th, 2023","excerpt":"Columbus is known for the Ohio Statehouse, a love of football, its arts scene – and unpredictable weather. While it’s hard to compete with Scioto Mile’s perfect green spaces, transforming your Arch City yard into a lush oasis isn’t as hard as it sounds. We’ve put together eight spring lawn care tips for Columbus to […]
\n","content":"\nColumbus is known for the Ohio Statehouse, a love of football, its arts scene – and unpredictable weather. While it’s hard to compete with Scioto Mile’s perfect green spaces, transforming your Arch City yard into a lush oasis isn’t as hard as it sounds.
\n\n\n\nWe’ve put together eight spring lawn care tips for Columbus to help you understand your lawn’s needs in the spring so it can thrive year-round.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nTo enjoy a fresh, healthy lawn in the summer, you’ll need to hit the ground running in the spring. This is when your lawn responds to nature’s wake-up call after a long, cold Columbus winter.
\n\n\n\nFrom mowing, watering, and fertilizing to treating lawn diseases, springtime lawn care is important if you want to enjoy a thick carpet of green come summer.
\n\n\n\nBy tackling a few tasks early, you’ll help your lawn defend itself against potential diseases, drought, and pests. With the proper maintenance, not only will your lawn burst with health, but it will seriously boost your curb appeal and make you the envy of your neighborhood.
\n\n\n\n![\"Person](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pexels-gustavo-fring-5163423.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf it’s springtime, it’s preparation time. Before the grass begins to grow, you’ll want to make sure your lawn equipment is in perfect working condition.
\n\n\n\nHere are some key maintenance checks you should perform sooner rather than later:
\n\n\n\nMaintenance makes a big difference, so get your tools ready ahead of time and have a stress-free summer.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lab](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Soil-Fertility-Analysis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alandmanson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFull, lush lawns can be a beautiful sight, but a lot goes into achieving and maintaining them. If yours isn’t exactly thriving, your soil could be the problem.
\n\n\n\nDepending on each yard, soil composition and acidity levels can differ. By conducting a soil test, you’ll be able to pinpoint soil nutrient needs. Specifically, you’ll get information on soil pH, cation exchange capacity, lime requirement index, and base saturation.
\n\n\n\nPlus, you’ll find out how much phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) your soil contains and whether you need to add soil amendments.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_33362501875_0d0e78d669_o.jpg\")
Photo Credit: UBC Micrometeorology / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn early spring, there is still enough rain to keep your lawn moist and healthy. Consider watering your lawn when you notice the first signs of grass growth. Once you start, make sure your cool-season grass gets around 1 inch of water per week. Balance is essential, and it’s best to let your lawn guide you.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also incredibly important to let your lawn dry between waterings. Too much water can invite fungal disease, weeds, and pests, something neither your lawn nor you will appreciate. While flowers and other landscape plants can handle everyday watering, don’t include your lawn in this schedule.
\n\n\n\nWatering deeply, but more infrequently, will lead to stronger root development and drought-resistance than doing so briefly every day.
\n\n\n\nSigns of an overwatered lawn:
\n\n\n\nUnderwatering won’t do your lawn any favors either. Not keeping up with regular watering will leave your turf looking dry and unhealthy. Your grass will turn gray or tan, and it will have imprints when you walk on it.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to water your lawn is before 10 a.m., preferably around 5 or 6 a.m. Your grass will be able to absorb the moisture before it evaporates. In the afternoon, try to water between 4 and 6 p.m. Watering late at night will make your lawn more susceptible to disease, as the moisture will just sit on your grass overnight.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile lawn mowing is an actual ritual for some homeowners, there’s a certain technique involved.
\n\n\n\nWe recommend waiting until your grass is at least 2 inches tall. Our table below shows the recommended cutting heights for Columbus cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\n| Grass type | Recommended height |
| Tall fescue | 3 – 3 ½ inches |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2 ½ inches |
| Perennial ryegrass | 2 ½ inches |
| Fine fescue | 2 ½ – 4 inches |
Once mowing season kicks off, follow these simple rules for a healthy lawn:
\n\n\n\n![\"Chickweed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chickweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nChances are you love making good use of your Columbus lawn. What’s not so great? Those annoying weeds that seem to pop up out of nowhere. They’re an eyesore and embarrassment.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll definitely want to get rid of them as soon as they shoot up, but how do you go about it? We provide a couple of ways you can control pesky, deceiving weeds that masquerade as flowers.
\n\n\n\nIf cool-season weeds have taken up residence on your property, you’ll have to invest in post-emergent herbicide. Apply this solution in March or early April and keep in mind that it only targets weeds that have already germinated. It doesn’t work as a preventative measure.
\n\n\n\nFor that, look into a pre-emergent herbicide that targets weed seedlings. Apply it around Mid-March to get ahead of early spring and summer weeds.
\n\n\n\nAlso important to note is the difference between annual and perennial weeds.
\n\n\n\nAnnual cool-season weeds won’t bother you in the warmer months and generally die before you have to take action. On the flip side, perennial weeds are stubborn and stick around for longer, so investing in pre- or post-emergent herbicides will be necessary in this case.
\n\n\n\nSome of the most common annual and perennial weed types in Columbus include:
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Fertilizer-Spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dion Hinchcliffe / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFertilization helps your grass grow evenly and efficiently and reduces the likelihood of weeds. It supplies your soil with three important nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Each nutrient serves a different purpose.
\n\n\n\n| Nutrient | Key Benefits |
| Nitrogen | • Helps rapid growth and protein synthesis • Increases leaf development for dense lawns |
| Phosphorus | • Helps early root growth • Promotes plant maturity and seed development |
| Potassium | • Increases drought and disease resistance |
Fertilize your Columbus lawn in early to mid spring when your grass begins to grow. This is typically around March or April, when temperatures reach and stay around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In the early stages of grass growth, when shoots are tender, it’s important to fertilize more lightly. Once grass is actively growing, you can go in with a well-balanced fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nYou also need to think about what kind of fertilizer you want to use for your yard. Controlled-release fertilizers are granular beads that release nutrients over a period of six to eight weeks. Quick-release fertilizers can be a liquid concentrate or water-soluble beads that act as soon as they’re watered.
\n\n\n\nTake a look at some advantages and disadvantages of both:
\n\n\n\n| Factors | Controlled-release | Quick-release |
| Advantages | • No toxic buildup on the soil • Helps with water movement and soil structure • Introduces beneficial soil microbes • Safer to use around children and pets | • Lower cost • Highly concentrated • Acts faster • Higher nutrient ratio |
| Disadvantages | • Lower concentrations of nutrients • Takes longer to absorb • Costs more | • Can cause more toxic buildup • Made from synthetic materials • Can pollute groundwater |
Fertilizer can be organic or synthetic and selecting the right one for your lawn is vital. Below, we’ve outlined the pros and cons:
\n\n\n\n| Factors | Organic fertilizer | Synthetic fertilizer |
| Advantages | • Doesn’t burn lawns • Slow and steady nutrient release • Contains many trace minerals and balanced nutrition for your grass • Improves soil health | • More commonly available • Formulas made for exact lawn needs • Acts quickly • Costs less |
| Disadvantages | • Less nutrient release in cooler temperatures • Costs more • Dependent on microorganisms in the soil • Can cause harmful runoff | • Shorter lifespan • Can deteriorate soil • Can burn lawn • May cause chemical runoff |
How to fertilize your lawn? It’s easier than you think. Run a spreader around the perimeter of your lawn first and then go over the rest of it, slightly overlapping each pass.
\n\n\n\nThe perks? You won’t have to worry about dirty hands and the fertilizer will be spread evenly.
\n\n\n\n![\"Fall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fall-Armyworm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: uacescomm / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLawn pests. We hate them and want them gone. But they’re stubborn and make it that much harder to achieve the perfect lawn most homeowners dream of.
\n\n\n\nIn Columbus, some of the most common springtime pests include grubs, sod webworms, billbugs, chinch bugs, and cutworms. Read on to find out how to identify them and get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nGrubs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Grubs are the larval stage of different beetle species. As the name implies, they literally grub your grass and attack it at the root level, killing it. When the root system is compromised, grass can’t absorb nutrients and water, leading to severe damage.
\n\n\n\nGrubs are visible to the eye and have a white or brown body that curls into a C shape if bothered. If you notice beetles flying around, it’s a good sign that you have a grub infestation.
\n\n\n\nPlus, you’ll likely see irregular dead spots on your lawn and an increase in animal activity on your property. Raccoons, skunks, and birds like to feed on grub worms – which, if you think about it, is a great eradication method.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: In addition to limiting moisture, you can introduce beneficial nematodes to your lawn. It can take a few years to establish a colony large enough to eradicate grubs, but you won’t have to treat your lawn with chemicals.
\n\n\n\nAnother way is to apply milky spore, a bacteria that also takes a while to develop, but which is deadly to grubs. As a last resort, you can turn to pesticides – the lower the toxicity level, the better.
\n\n\n\nSod webworms
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Sod webworms are lawn-damaging caterpillars. They’re the immature larval stage of various moth types. They appear as small, white, or tan in color, with snout-like projections on their heads. They generally cling to grass blades and can be found with their heads pointing down and their wings rolled tight.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll know you have an infestation if you notice moths flying away as you mow. Moreover, your grass will appear brown and short in certain areas.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: Water regularly and keep thatch at an optimal level, to avoid stresses on your lawn. You can also use beneficial nematodes or insecticidal soap to kill this pest. Lastly, you can apply low-toxicity pesticides.
\n\n\n\nBillbugs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Billbugs are particularly troublesome, as both the larvae and adults can damage grass. Adult billbugs chew holes in the grass blades and deposit eggs inside. When they hatch, the larvae start damaging the root system and kill the grass from the inside out.
\n\n\n\nThese insects are a type of weevil and can grow up to ½ inch in length. Their hard shells range in color from brown to near black and have a pitted texture. The larvae are white with reddish-brown heads.
\n\n\n\nDamage in this case is hard to diagnose. Grass turns brown, but can be mistaken for drought damage, fungal disease, or simply grass dormancy. Test an affected area by pulling out some grass. If billbugs are the culprit, the grass will break off at the soil line and will be accompanied by sawdust-like excrement.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: Billbug treatment calls for multiple approaches. Target adult billbugs in early spring before they lay their eggs and kill off newly-hatched larvae before they have a chance to wreak havoc on your lawn. Also, maintain your lawn height to reduce the ideal habitat for billbugs and treat your lawn with pesticides if needed.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Chinch bugs are tiny insects that are difficult to spot due to their size. These pests are red in color when they’re young, but turn black as they mature. They also have a white spot on their back in the shape of an ‘X.’ They love St. Augustinegrass and usually live in the thatch layer.
\n\n\n\nChinch bug damage can look like lawn disease, with the grass turning brown in patches, but it’s important to never rule out a possible chinch bug infestation.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: If you suspect chinch bugs are damaging your lawn, it’s recommended that you contact a professional. Homeowners can have a difficult time getting rid of them on their own. Worse, these insects are known to develop a resistance to pesticides and overcome resistance in the host plant itself.
\n\n\n\nCutworms
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Cutworms are general feeders that can damage a wide range of plants. They are smooth, with some hairs, and a length of about 2 inches when fully grown. Different species have different colors, from brown or tan to pink, green, gray, or black. Some larvae are shiny, while others are dull.
\n\n\n\nThey curl their bodies around turfgrass blades or plant stems and feed on them. They’re most active in the evening or at night and hide in debris during the day. Adult moths don’t do damage.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: If you discover damage or larvae, you can opt for non-toxic removal methods, such as plucking and crushing the insects or dropping them in soapy water. Furthermore, you can try a wash of bleach-free dish soap or apply organic pesticides.
\n\n\n\nBy keeping up with your lawn care maintenance, you’ll have an easier time squashing any pest problem early. Otherwise, you’ll come up against a damaged lawn and pesky insects that can make spending time outdoors a nightmare.
\n\n\n\nIf you have to use pesticides, stay away from catch-all types that also kill beneficial insects. Instead, go for selective pesticides that act in a targeted way.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Brown_Patch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLawn diseases can destroy your yard and cause incredible damage to your grass. If your turf is looking patchy, discolored, or just ‘off,’ lawn disease may be the culprit.
\n\n\n\nResidents of Columbus regularly deal with abnormally cool periods, intense heat, humidity, overcast skies, and drought, all factors that contribute to fungal growth. A susceptible lawn will easily succumb to disease pathogens, so it’s important to know what you’re dealing with.
\n\n\n\nWatch out for the following five types affecting Columbus cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nBrown Patch (Rhizoctonia solani)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat brown patch:
\n\n\n\nDollar Spot (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat dollar spot:
\n\n\n\nGray Leaf Spot (Magnaporthe oryzae)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat gray leaf spot:
\n\n\n\nPowdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat powdery mildew:
\n\n\n\nFairy Ring (Soil borne Basidiomycete fungi)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat fairy ring:
\n\n\n\nTypically, the fertilizer and soil should be moist, but don’t water so much that puddles begin to form on your grass. About 20 minutes should be enough to avoid washing away the nutrients and carrying away the fertilizer itself. It can contaminate groundwater and nearby streams or ponds.
What are some of the biggest lawn care mistakes to watch out for?
If you’re a homeowner, you’re likely eager to care for your lawn yourself. But there are some things you should know before you start.
• Avoid leaving clippings on your lawn after mowing, as this may kill your grass.
• The best time for aeration and seeding is during the growing season of your particular grass type. Find out when that is and you’ll be good to go.
• Don’t cut your grass with dull lawn mower blades, as they can rip and shred your grass and decrease moisture.
• Don’t over or under water your turf – the former will carry away nutrients and increase the risk of disease, while the latter will dry out your grass.
• Don’t forget to fertilize. Without fertilizer, your grass won’t grow as healthy or green.
If your grass is turning brown and dying despite your best efforts, it may be a result of disease or pests setting up camp. It also may be affected by drought and improper fertilization. Identifying the exact cause will help you find a solution fit for the problem.
Columbus cool-season grasses produce beautiful lawns that can survive the region’s fluctuations in temperature. With some targeted springtime lawn care, you’ll be worry-free for the rest of the year and have a lush, healthy carpet of grass at your disposal.
Still, if lawn care is more of a chore than a hobby, hire a Columbus lawn care pro to take your yard to the next level and free up time for other activities.
Main Photo Credit: Topiary Garden / Slowking4 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n","title":"8 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Columbus, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/1789c/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg","srcSet":"/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/107df/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 320w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/293e9/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 500w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/f2cbb/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 800w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/1789c/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 960w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/c26c2/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/1dd6e/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/67b76/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 320w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/8df11/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 500w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/98a65/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 800w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/1dd6e/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 960w,\n/static/91f14012d375eb3837278b7d550f0025/3cc96/Topiary-Garden-Columbus-Ohio.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Columbus, OH","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Consider our 8 spring lawn care tips for maintaining a green and thriving lawn in Columbus year-round."}}},{"node":{"id":"26d53bc6-c3de-5cc7-a448-9e03696d4b47","slug":"lawn-mowing-maintenance-columbus","path":"/lawn-care/oh/columbus/lawn-mowing-maintenance-columbus/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"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":"Your beautiful Central Ohio home is a source of pride and joy. Part of that joy is the sometimes-overwhelming task of yard care. Lawn mowing and maintenance in Columbus is, at the very least, a weekly chore — whether you do it yourself or hire a lawn service. Mowing, weeding, fertilizing, aerating … it’s all […]
\n","content":"\nYour beautiful Central Ohio home is a source of pride and joy. Part of that joy is the sometimes-overwhelming task of yard care. Lawn mowing and maintenance in Columbus is, at the very least, a weekly chore — whether you do it yourself or hire a lawn service. Mowing, weeding, fertilizing, aerating … it’s all a piece of the puzzle that comes with owning a house or rental property.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses are suitable for Columbus lawns because they can handle our cold winters. Chances are your turf consists of Kentucky bluegrass (KBG) – or a blend of KBG and perennial ryegrass, tall fescue or Buffalograss.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/c0m7Y3fthxqXa0hb0CNGUJ-8_L06QP5VtKXDihlDKJMOmUc1oUfXH1vsXQKpDem0MPLK4ellVHBlq9zF9EYxtGuJwE-uP8zpQytxx2jElgaFVzZhf3u8NS_suukto6XEpOG2utNq\")
If you’re reseeding or replacing a lawn in Franklin County, The Ohio State University Extension recommends having the soil tested to determine the best cool-season grass for your lawn. Geographical location, soil alkalinity, and temperature are important considerations.
\n\n\n\nSharpen the cutting blades on your gasoline or electric mower every season, and set the height relative to the lawn’s condition. Columbus tends to get an ample amount of rainfall in the spring and autumn, so you can lower the blades for a shorter cut. Kentucky bluegrass can be cut to about 2-1/2 inches if you’re only mowing once a week. In late July and into August’s extreme summer heat and dry weather, cool-season grass root systems tend to become shallow. Raise the blades to about 3-1/2 inches high. Cutting the grass too short in the hot summer months will stress it and keep it from staying green. You can mow KBG, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescues twice a week, if a lot of rain is prompting growth spurts.
\n\n\n\nMowing in straight lines, back and forth every time compacts the soil and pushes the grass blades into one direction, which leads to an irregular cut. Changing directions each mow allows individual blades to spring back. Lawnmowers work better on dry grass, but do not wait too long. The amount of Columbus rainfall is always hit or miss. Leave the grass clippings on the lawn. It contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium and serves as excellent mulch.
\n\n\n\nFertilizing your Columbus lawn depends on its pH level, and that’s where having the soil tested comes in handy. Ohio soils vary, but the best range for grass is slightly acidic, in the pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. Commercial fertilizer contains measured portions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Feed the lawn in early spring and summer or use slow-release chemicals over dry grass in August to December. Fertilize and follow with a deep watering every eight to 10 weeks.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/oV_ZyfWGU1MESsCrbWe92b6Nw4GUBCsdOBvA062DRf02pvWMctUOgh6Z8MTT20Hjhn44SVncioA9DUzhpxJqZnN6YyBbuP8umfyRvv2RwaaEiuenM3ip4C2aiyM8_r7YFma9B3wQ\")
Post-emergent herbicides will not keep new weeds from sprouting up, but they will kill existing ones. Weed-killing chemicals include dicamba, 4-DP and MCPP (in liquid and granular form). Apply them in early spring, the first couple of weeks in June, and then again in September. See “Controlling the Worst Weeds in Columbus” for more details.
\n\n\n\nThatch is a rotting tangled-up mass of fallen grass blades, rhizomes, and various organic material that spread into a type of vegetative rug. A little is good because it provides a moisture-holding zone where these materials can decompose into nutrients. But when it gets too thick, this woven carpet keeps new grass blades from growing. Bluegrass and some fescue blends may develop thatch that’s more than a half-inch thick. This prevents grass from absorbing enough nutrients and water. Raking, mowing, and fertilizing lawns regularly will help to control thatch.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/e_Bh0WbjZQCcpLGIeyTjhzcQz93xfFJx06dDiLwjmjUroaKz5SoLr5JwuLm3Qkqg6A25NRx4Ke7xkD1g9H7LZ8FhvoeOv3He3dBuH5K-HHKwW-NHSwHlsc9EgDKDuzXy3TfyX361\")
Aeration is the process of pulling soil plugs from a thickening lawn so that water and nutrients can reach the roots. Core aerators are recommended for large properties, but if you have a smaller yard, a spading fork will work for a DIY job.
\n\n\n\nNo matter how you look at it, lawn mowing and maintenance in Columbus is a chore and will take a good chunk of the weekend’s leisure time. But the look and smell of a beautiful, well-kept expanse green grass make it all worth it. Any more questions about your lawn? Visit our Columbus lawn care page.
\n\n\n\nJill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.
Selecting the appropriate grass type is critical in achieving a stunning lawn in Pennsylvania, given its varying climates. To help you make the best decision, we’ve compiled a list of the best grass types for Pennsylvania. From the well-known Kentucky bluegrass to the hardy and low-maintenance fine fescue, we’ll guide you in picking the perfect […]
\n","content":"\nSelecting the appropriate grass type is critical in achieving a stunning lawn in Pennsylvania, given its varying climates. To help you make the best decision, we’ve compiled a list of the best grass types for Pennsylvania.
\n\n\n\nFrom the well-known Kentucky bluegrass to the hardy and low-maintenance fine fescue, we’ll guide you in picking the perfect grass that suits your lawn’s unique needs. Ensure your lawn can withstand the challenges of Pennsylvania’s changing seasons by choosing the right grass variety.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen planting grass, it’s necessary to choose between warm-season and cool-season grasses based on the climate of your region. Cool-season grasses thrive throughout Pennsylvania. Zoysiagrass, a warm-season grass, can grow in the southernmost portions of Pennsylvania, where temperatures are warmer.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses flourish in higher temperatures. During late autumn and winter, warm-season grasses go dormant, but they stay green in late spring and summer. Conversely, cool-season grasses remain green in spring and autumn. They keep the soil warm and cozy in cooler months.
\n\n\n\nUltimately, the decision of which grass to plant hinges on the climate and weather conditions in your area. Both types of grasses, however, have the potential to create a beautiful lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe following grasses thrive in Pennsylvania’s cool and humid climate. As the name suggests, cool-season grass grows actively in the cooler months. Continue reading to learn more about the perfect cool-season grass for your backyard.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is an excellent choice if you’re looking to prevent erosion in your yard while achieving a uniform and attractive look. This grass variety is durable, withstands moderate foot traffic, and recovers quickly, making it perfect for backyard gatherings.
\n\n\n\nAlthough it can tolerate drought, it may turn brown during hot, dry summers, as with all cool-season grasses. However, if you want a low-maintenance option, Kentucky bluegrass may not be the best choice, as it requires fertilizer, is susceptible to disease, and needs frequent mowing.
\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: Tolerates close, frequent grazing better than most grasses. Forms tight sod.
\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\nWith its fine texture, dark green color, and lush appearance, perennial ryegrass is a commonly used grass in various settings, such as athletic fields, landscapes, and cattle fields. It’s particularly popular among homeowners who enjoy spending time outdoors, thanks to its rapid growth and a high tolerance for foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nWhile perennial ryegrass thrives in sunny areas, it can also handle partial shade. However, remember that this grass type requires significant water usage and does not tolerate drought well. So, if you’re considering incorporating ryegrasses into your yard, keeping this in mind is crucial.
\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 spots, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8 but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: It is often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass for a more traffic-tolerant and disease-resistant turf.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James K. Lindsey / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nFine fescue, particularly the chewings variety, is highly regarded among cool-season grasses with its delicate texture and impressive ability to tolerate shade. If you have a shaded backyard, fine fescues may be an excellent grass type to consider.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, fine fescues are low-maintenance, requiring less water, fertilizer, and mowing than other grass types. As long as they receive regular watering, they are the perfect option for busy homeowners who want to enjoy a beautiful landscape without the additional maintenance effort.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. It prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Fine fescue grasses are often added to mixtures with other cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass, to create a dense, attractive lawn that can withstand shade and drought.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\nTall fescue has a beautiful deep green color and coarse texture. Its deep root system enables it to withstand heat and drought conditions better than other grass types.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a great low-maintenance option as long as you don’t mind frequent mowing. Its rapid growth, deep root system, and low maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for your yard. Consider incorporating tall fescue into your landscaping if this sounds appealing to you.
\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: Many tall fescue lawns become thin after hot, dry summer conditions. Thin, tall fescue lawns can form clumps and become unsightly. To prevent this from occurring, it’s usually necessary to overseed tall fescue lawns in the fall.
\n\n\n\nThe southernmost portion of Pennsylvania rests in the transition zone, which provides optimal conditions for both cool-season and warm-season grasses to grow. While Pennsylvania’s grass of choice tends to be cool-season grass, Zoysiagrass is a popular warm-season grass for Pennsylvania’s southernmost lawns.
\n\n\n\n![\"green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-5.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nA warm-season grass, Zoysiagrass is highly desirable for its lush appearance and ability to feel comfortable walking barefoot.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is perfect for high-traffic areas, making it an excellent choice for households with children or pets. However, it should be noted that it has a slow recovery rate, so it may take some time to heal from any damage caused by heavy traffic. Zoysiagrass only has a moderate tolerance to shady areas, which means it needs sunlight to grow.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, Zoysiagrass has a high salt tolerance. Overall, Zoysiagrass is an excellent option for southern Pennsylvania homeowners looking for a lawn that can handle high traffic and warmer weather.
\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\nOther notes: Zoysia has a remarkable ability to thrive in drought conditions due to its deep-rooted nature, allowing it to reach groundwater and adapt to different environments.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for grass options for your lawn in the western region of Pennsylvania, tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass are recommended.
Pennsylvania lawns primarily grow cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and tall fescue.
Fine fescue is among the easiest cool-season grasses to maintain. It’s known for its fine texture, shade tolerance, and low maintenance requirements, making it an attractive option for homeowners and landscapers.
Select the right grass for your lawn by considering your available space, how often you expect to walk in the yard, and how much maintenance you’re willing to perform to keep a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nFor instance, Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass can handle the foot traffic if you plan to host parties and barbecues. If you have a shaded yard, fine fescue is an excellent option. For a low-maintenance lawn, consider tall fescue or fine fescue.
\n\n\n\nIt’s essential to note that grass is just one aspect of a beautiful landscape, as there are many low-maintenance landscaping options and native plants in Pennsylvania. Need the help of a Pennsylvania lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Pittsburgh and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: sk / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Pennsylvania","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/1789c/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/107df/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 320w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/293e9/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 500w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/f2cbb/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 800w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/1789c/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 960w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/c26c2/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/1dd6e/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/67b76/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 320w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/8df11/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 500w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/98a65/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 800w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/1dd6e/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 960w,\n/static/7e0063597bac9ecbf9c2ab4c025fd2cf/3cc96/lawn-in-Pennsylvania.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Pennsylvania | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the 5 best grass types for Pennsylvania. Achieve a charming lawn that can withstand Pennsylvania's seasonal changes."}}},{"node":{"id":"912cfb8b-e575-5c65-9ef4-8b7a145de0cf","slug":"spring-lawn-care-tips-new-york","path":"/lawn-care/ny/spring-lawn-care-tips-new-york/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Abdul Wadood is a writer and SEO specialist from India. He recently started writing about lawns and enjoys it. In his spare time, he enjoys going on trips.","name":"Abdul Wadood","id":"236127ca-c7a6-50bb-9ab7-dd3e7e3fe6d8","path":"/author/abdul-wadood/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/395f0103c8419fd32e2c021818b78121?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"d385702e-0566-5651-8f72-f93cc1c9db6b","name":"New York","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ny/"}],"date":"May 4th, 2023","excerpt":"Spring is great in New York. In fact, late spring is the best time to visit the state and certainly one of the best times to live here. But spring is also the time of the year when your yard needs your attention again, and doing it right will give your lawn the foundation it […]
\n","content":"\nSpring is great in New York. In fact, late spring is the best time to visit the state and certainly one of the best times to live here. But spring is also the time of the year when your yard needs your attention again, and doing it right will give your lawn the foundation it needs to thrive all year long.
\n\n\n\nLocation matters, so the approach will be slightly different if you live in the cooler upstate area than along the Atlantic coast. But, in general, these 11 spring lawn care tips for New York will set you up well for the warm-weather months ahead.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Brown](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Rake-Debris.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David Goehring / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAs soon as spring starts, grab your rake and remove dead leaves, twigs and loose grass to help the lawn breathe. If the soil is moist, it’s best to wait for it to dry, as raking when wet can pull up healthy grass.
\n\n\n\nRaking promotes straight grass growth by splitting grass blades. After your first rake, you can let thatch build up to an inch. Thatch less than an inch thick protects the grass from damage and provides nutrients for growth as it decomposes. Any more than that, however, and it can smother your lawn, creating a barrier that keeps oxygen and moisture from getting to the roots.
\n\n\n\nWe’ll get into dethatching more below.
\n\n\n\nIt’s good to test your soil at least once a year. New York sometimes experiences heavy precipitation, which can wash away essential nutrients. A soil test will reveal what nutrients are missing from your soil and whether it’s too acidic or alkaline.
\n\n\n\nYou can then add amendments like magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, or calcium. If you plan to fertilize your soil after adding amendments, we recommend you wait for at least four weeks to prevent negative interactions between them.
\n\n\n\nYou can purchase a DIY soil test kit from a plant nursery and test the soil yourself. Or, if you want a complete soil analysis, send the sample to local testing laboratories. Contact Cornell Cooperative Extension to find soil testing laboratories in your area.
\n\n\n\n![\"Treat](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Treat-Diseases.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nFungi can attack your lawn at any time during the spring. The chances increase during the summer because fungi love warm, humid climates. These precautionary steps can help eliminate fungi at their source.
\n\n\n\nHere are some common lawn diseases in New York.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat dollar spot:
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat red thread:
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat fairy ring:
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat snow mold:
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat brown patch:
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat leaf spot:
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dion Hinchcliffe / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe best time to fertilize cool-season grasses is during fall. But, if you haven’t fertilized the previous fall, you can do so in spring.
\n\n\n\nNitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) are the primary nutrients in fertilizer as they are the most needed for soil growth. Your soil test result will tell you what mixture of nutrients to use.
\n\n\n\nAlways choose slow-release fertilizers over fast-release ones. Fast-release fertilizers make your grass grow quicker but can damage it. In fact, they can burn it.
\n\n\n\nPro tip: Use a spreader or sprayer to apply fertilizer evenly.
\n\n\n\nIf you have pets and children playing on your lawn, we recommend you avoid using chemical fertilizers. You can instead go for organic fertilizers like:
\n\n\n\nWeeds start growing in spring and can take over your beautiful turf quicker than you’d imagine. Prevention is better than cure! So, apply pre-emergent herbicides during early spring to prevent weeds from germinating.
\n\n\n\nIf weeds have already started to show up, it may be too late to apply a pre-emergent herbicide. In this case, you can use post-emergent herbicides. If there are only a few weeds, you can remove them manually.
\n\n\n\nHere are some weeds that are common to New York.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_50594763067-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Christina Butler / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMost lawn pests reproduce during spring. Use pesticides to eliminate these pesky creatures before they have time to lay and fertilize eggs.
\n\n\n\nSome people use catch-all pesticides, but they are less effective and can harm beneficial insects, pets, and even your children. It’s best to identify the exact pest in your yard and use a pesticide that targets it specifically.
\n\n\n\nHere are some lawn pests common to New York lawns.
\n\n\n\nBesides these lawn pests, you may also find spiders, wasps, centipedes, and mosquitoes in your yard. It’s best to seek professional help to eliminate them, as they can harm humans.
\n\n\n\nProper fertilization, irrigation, and dethatching can reduce your lawn’s susceptibility to pests. However, it’s impossible to prevent them altogether.
\n\n\n\nYour lawn equipment probably sat idle in your garage throughout the winter. Now it’s spring and time to get it duty-ready.
\n\n\n\nFollow these steps to check your lawn equipment and get them ready.
\n\n\n\nIn most cases, you can remove thatch with a rake. However, you may have to dethatch your lawn with a dethatcher if the accumulation is too great.
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to dethatch your lawn when it’s actively growing. This time is usually in early spring for cool-season grasses. Also, ensure the soil is moist before running the dethatcher.
\n\n\n\nOnce you finish dethatching, overseed to fill any new bare spots.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8704115339_808a6b275c_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Oregon State University / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAeration is the process of punching small holes in the lawn to allow water, air, and other nutrients to reach the roots. You can aerate your yard during spring or fall.
\n\n\n\nYour lawn should be aerated if you notice excessive thatch accumulation and soil compaction. Aeration can also help improve the health of your grass. It’s best to aerate your yard every year or every other year.
\n\n\n\nIf you have planned to dethatch your lawn, it’s best to dethatch first and then aerate. It’s easier to aerate when there’s no thatch. Also, water your grass before running the lawn aerator, as it’s easier to aerate when the soil is moist.
\n\n\n\n![\"orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Mowing-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Prasannanossam3 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nYou should mow your lawn as soon as the grass starts growing. Here’s the recommended mowing height for popular grasses in New York.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Height |
| Fine fescue | 1.5 – 3 inches |
| Tall fescue | 2 – 4 inches |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2 – 3 inches |
| Perennial ryegrass | 2 – 3 inches |
If you want a lush, green, healthy lawn, water is a must. A lawn typically requires 1 to 1.5 inches of water a week. However, the amount of water can vary depending on the grass and climate.
\n\n\n\nOverwatering and underwatering can both harm your lawn. Overwatering can breed fungi, pests, and weeds. Underwatering will make the grass lose its color.
\n\n\n\nA simple technique for determining whether your lawn needs water is to insert a screwdriver about 3 to 4 inches into the ground. Remove the screwdriver. If there’s moisture, you don’t need to water your yard.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to irrigate is early morning (before 10 a.m.). If you water during the evening or night, the excess water will remain in the soil, attracting diseases.
\n\n\n\nNew York sees a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The weather is beautiful during spring, especially in May. And it’s the best time to have fun on your lawn.
\n\n\n\nRemove debris, treat diseases, eliminate weeds, get rid of pests, and fertilize to make your lawn look great during spring and stay strong in the coming months.
\n\n\n\nLastly, don’t forget to clean your clogged gutters to give your lawn a perfect look and protect your home from water damage.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re new to lawn care and don’t have the time to spend on your yard, Wikilawn New York lawn care pros are always here to assist.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Brooklyn bridge, New York / Pxfuel
\n","title":"11 Spring Lawn Care Tips for New York","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/1789c/pxfuel.com-2-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/107df/pxfuel.com-2-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/293e9/pxfuel.com-2-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/f2cbb/pxfuel.com-2-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/1789c/pxfuel.com-2-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/c26c2/pxfuel.com-2-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/1dd6e/pxfuel.com-2-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/67b76/pxfuel.com-2-1.webp 320w,\n/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/8df11/pxfuel.com-2-1.webp 500w,\n/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/98a65/pxfuel.com-2-1.webp 800w,\n/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/1dd6e/pxfuel.com-2-1.webp 960w,\n/static/4266cffe64c64f739757c36702725255/3cc96/pxfuel.com-2-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Spring Lawn Care Tips for New York | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Feeding, mowing, weeding and otherwise pampering your lawn in the spring will give it a rock-solid foundation that will help it thrive all year"}}},{"node":{"id":"06b1c012-b4a8-5bd1-ab44-db02882c2ecd","slug":"best-native-plants-pacific-northwest","path":"/lawn-care/pacific-northwest/best-native-plants-pacific-northwest/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"e3d78548-e4c5-5661-afcd-3346a26d8d46","name":"Pacific Northwest","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/pacific-northwest/"}],"date":"May 27th, 2023","excerpt":"From the Oregon Coast to the Olympic National Park, the Pacific Northwest (PNW) has many places you can visit to take in the natural, organic beauty of native plants and wildlife. Falling in love with the diverse flora of the area can leave you wanting more. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best […]
\n","content":"\nFrom the Oregon Coast to the Olympic National Park, the Pacific Northwest (PNW) has many places you can visit to take in the natural, organic beauty of native plants and wildlife. Falling in love with the diverse flora of the area can leave you wanting more. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best native plants for the Pacific Northwest. You can create a smaller version of a diverse plant culture in your yard.
\n\n\n\nThis article allows you to invite as much of the Pacific Northwest’s native roots into your yard as you’d like. We’ve identified shrubs, wildflowers, perennials, and other native vegetation you can place in flower beds, plant as groundcovers or lawn specimens, or use in any way you prefer.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Flowering-Currant.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter Stevens / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlthough this shrub’s edible berries have been accused of being insipid, they have been used to make juice, pies, syrup, and wine. Birds and mammals, like deer, squirrels, and foxes, also like the taste of the fruit. If you don’t mind sharing, red flowering currant is a good choice for your home.
\n\n\n\nThis shrub also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. They won’t fight with the mammals or you over the fruit, because the pollinators and birds are drawn to the showy, drooping pinkish-red flowers.
\n\n\n\nThis edible plant is low-maintenance. She thrives best in well-drained, rocky soil, but also tolerates poor soil. This shrub grows in both full sun and partial shade.
\n\n\n\nOnce red flowering currant, also called blood currant, is established, she is drought tolerant. Start her off with plenty of water in her first one to two seasons.
\n\n\n\nPlant red flowering currant as hedges or in a wildlife garden. She’ll also do well in rain gardens and xeriscape landscapes.
\n\n\n\nNative Regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Deciduous shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers well-drained, rocky soil but tolerates poor soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet sage-rosemary
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water the first two summers of establishment
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8-10 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Western](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Western-Columbine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Franco Folini from San Francisco, USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWestern columbine is great for a softer touch to your home garden. She has delicate-looking red and yellow flowers that flare outward at the bottom. But beware: columbine is not as innocent as she seems. She contains a toxin that can cause stomach issues and heart palpitations.
\n\n\n\nWestern columbine will only last about two to three years. However, she proliferates by self-seeding. Hummingbirds and butterflies enjoy the blossoms that sprout in late spring to early summer.
\n\n\n\nThis plant is commonly found in moist areas, like woodlands and forests. She grows well in a variety of soil types, just as long as the soil drains well. Columbine prefers the shade but will work with full sun if she is kept moist. She is easy to grow and works well in shade gardens and borders.
\n\n\n\nNative Regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade (preferably)
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalky, clay, loamy, or sandy soil that’s well-drained and nutrient-rich
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: N/A
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Contain toxin that can cause stomach issues or heart palpitations
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low; deadhead fading blooms and cut back in mid-summer
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Redosier-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRed-osier dogwood is also known as red twig dogwood. She distinguishes herself with stems that are a bright red in the fall and winter. The spring brings a cluster of white flowers, which turn to white berries in the summer. Pollinators and butterflies are attracted to the flowers, while birds satisfy their hunger with the berries.
\n\n\n\nRed-osier grows quickly, but you can root prune this plant to control her size. This shrub is a good candidate for movement because she transplants successfully.
\n\n\n\nIf you like to see color in the winter, red-osier will make great shrub borders.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 2 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand, moist, adaptable to a wide range of soils.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 9 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. Use a spade to root prune if you want to stop her from vigorously spreading. Prune in early spring to encourage new stem growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Mahonia_aquifolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The original uploader was Meggar at English Wikipedia. / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall Oregon grape, also called holly-leaved barberry, is an excellent choice for homes with small children or pets. Unlike western columbine, tall Oregon grape is non-toxic and has been used for its medicinal properties. It is both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.
\n\n\n\nThe flowers emerge bright and yellow in the spring. The blue-colored berries, which resemble grapes, arrive in the summer. Pollinators are attracted to the cluster of showy petals, while birds and wildlife get a mouthful of the purplish berries.
\n\n\n\nTall Oregon grape thrives in partial to full shade. This shrub makes a tasty hedge or addition to woodland and shade gardens.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, acidic, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Honey
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Camas-Camassia-quamashh.jpg\")
Photo Credit: brewbooks from near Seattle, USA / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommon camas could be mistaken for grass, except for the beautiful light blue flowers that grow atop the long grass-like blades. The petals blossom from late spring to early summer. Common camas has low to medium maintenance requirements, and she is highly pest and disease resistant.
\n\n\n\nShe thrives best when planted in the fall and when she receives full sun. Camas adapts to partial shade, but will only grow a percentage of her potential in shady conditions.
\n\n\n\nShe works well planted in groups. Add color to beds and borders with common camas, or by using this wildflower as underplantings for shrubs and roses.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering plant/wildflower
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, very little shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: High organic matter with good drainage; tolerates seasonally moist soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Spicy; Smells like molasses when boiled
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average (Natively found in moist, spring meadows that dry by late spring)
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 30 inches
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low to medium
\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/217464248_8be3dd9dcc_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: brewbooks / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a plant that brings color during the fall, pacific red elderberry is for you. She blooms a cluster of white flowers in late spring to early summer. The berries emerge in the fall bringing both nourishment for birds and autumn color. As tasty as the fruit may look, be mindful that the berries are toxic when uncooked.
\n\n\n\nPacific red elderberry grows naturally in moist woodlands and stream banks. She is accustomed to moist soil and is a great choice to plant next to a creek. This shrub also works well in borders and beds. Just make sure she gets enough sun or she will not grow to her fullest potential.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained, loamy
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Skunk smell
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 10 feet in a garden (up to 18 feet in the wild)
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The seeds are poisonous, and the raw berries may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium; prune to contain the spread
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Serviceberry-Amelanchier-alnifolia.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Thayne Tuason / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nServiceberry is another plant that offers homeowners tasty treats. The berries have been used to make jellies and jams and for medicinal purposes.
\n\n\n\nWhite flowers blossom in mid-spring and attract pollinators. Birds come for the berries. Serviceberry will grow in full sun or partial shade. To make sure she sprouts her tasty berries, plant her where she will receive lots of sunlight.
\n\n\n\nServiceberry does well in pollinator gardens and, of course, edible gardens.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loamy or sandy; well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Lightly scented
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 16 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Oceanspray\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Oceanspray-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe Mabel / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOceanspray has green leaves that are hairy on one side. The small petaled white flowers bloom from late spring to late summer. Oceanspray bears fruit that often remains into the fall and winter. Bees and hummingbirds enjoy this shrub, which can grow as tall as 20 feet.
\n\n\n\nOceanspray is a good choice for all three states in the Pacific Northwest. This plant is adaptable to multiple soil types. She is also drought-tolerant, making her ideal for the PNW areas that are prone to seasonal desert-like conditions.
\n\n\n\nOceanspray is pest- and disease-resistant and requires little pruning. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance shrub, oceanspray will fit well in your cottage or coastal garden.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 6 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, chalk, clay, sand, well-drained, dry to moist
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet and sugary
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June – August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 10 feet tall, but can reach heights up to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Lewis-Mock-Orange-Philadelphus-lewisii.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk from Berkeley, CA, United States of America / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLewis’ mock orange is also referred to as wild mock orange, named for the sweet scent that is similar to orange blossoms. This shrub bears white flowers in the spring and summer. You’ll not only give back to the ecosystem because mock orange attracts butterflies, but this sweet-smelling plant is also a shelter for wildlife.
\n\n\n\nA property with full sun or partial shade will give this plant a thriving environment. Although rich soils are her preference, mock orange adapts to a variety of soil types. She has a fibrous root system that helps prevent erosion.
\n\n\n\nPlant mock orange in borders, hedges, and low-maintenance landscaping designs.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers gravelly and nutrient-rich soils, but tolerates a variety of soil types, like chalk, loam, and sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Orangey scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low-medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 5 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to cats
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jitaeri / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommon yarrow boasts clusters of tiny petaled white flowers. She attracts pollinators but is toxic to pets. She can cause skin irritation and increased photosensitivity if touched, so yarrow is another plant to keep out of the reach of small children. It may seem ironic, but this plant has also been used for medicinal purposes to treat stomach aches, rashes, and fevers.
\n\n\n\nShe is low-maintenance and although she prefers moist soil that is well-drained, she tolerates multiple soil types. You will see a lot of her if you plant her in flower or garden beds, as she is prone to spread aggressively. If you’re looking for a flowering groundcover to replace some turfgrass, common yarrow is a good choice.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: All
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist but well-drained, all soil types
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Pine
\n\n\n\nBloom Time/Season of Interest: Late spring, summer
\n\n\n\nWater Needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature Height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential Hazards: Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested; for humans, may cause skin irritation or increase photosensitivity if touched
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/39114468694_a55e6cddd3_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: John Rusk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEvergreen huckleberry has edible berries that grow in the summer. With this evergreen, you can feed the wildlife and birds that nibble on the fruit. The berries have been used to make pies and jellies.
\n\n\n\nThis shrub is an attractive display, with her white flowers and reddish leaves appearing in the spring. She thrives best in full sun or part shade.
\n\n\n\nWhile she tolerates yards with trees blocking the sunlight, she may not bear flowers or fruit if she is planted in full shade. On the other hand, huckleberry grows tallest in the shade. In the sun she may reach 3 feet; in the shade, she may tower at heights up to 10 feet.
\n\n\n\nLooking for some ingredients for jam or syrup and a plant for your xeriscape design? This shrub is drought-resistant, so she’ll fit in well. Huckleberry is also an excellent choice for hedges and rain gardens or planted next to patios.
\n\n\n\nNative regions: Washington and Oregon; not native to Idaho
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Needled Evergreen shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 7 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Sun or shade; prefers partial or full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Tolerates sand, clay, and soils low in organic content; requires acidic soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Musky
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Feb – July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, Medium to wet
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 10 feet tall; grows taller in shade
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: High
\n\n\n\nChoose plants in your area’s USDA hardiness zone. Hardiness zones help gardeners know which plants will survive their area’s coldest winter temperatures. It will still take work to maintain the plants, but because the plants have adapted to the area, they will need less fertilizing, watering, and other upkeep tasks than non-native plants.
\n\n\n\nKnowing your soil type, how well it drains, and how much sun or shade your yard receives helps you choose plants that are well-suited for your home. Select plants that your yard’s size can accommodate. For example, a small property is probably not a good fit for a Douglas fir tree, which grows very large.
\n\n\n\nIt is also a good idea to choose plants that have a maintenance schedule that matches your availability to care for them. Likewise, select plants that fit your family’s composition. Be mindful of vegetation with hazard precautions if you have small children or pets.
\n\n\n\nSeattle’s best native plants include:
• Pacific Bleeding Heart
• Vine Maple
• Wild Ginger
• Salal
• Evergreen Huckleberry
Here are some of the best native plants for Washington:
• Velvet Lupine
• Sagebrush
• Western Columbine
• Vine Maple
• Salal
• Indian Plum
These are some native plants best for the state of Idaho:
• Golden Currant
• Woods’ Rose
• Rose Spirea
• Roundleaf Snowberry
Oregon’s best native plants include:
• Western Bleeding Heart
• Salal
• Vine Maple
• Pacific Beach Strawberry
Native plants are beneficial to the environment in many ways, including reducing pollutants that enter the water supply and sustaining the ecosystem. Growing native plants can also reduce your workload by decreasing the time you spend maintaining them. Here are some advantages of using native plants:
• Adaptability and low maintenance: Native plants are adapted to the local environment, including soil conditions and climate, so they are more likely to thrive with less watering and fertilizing. Once native plants are established, in addition to needing less watering and fertilizing, they typically require less maintenance overall.
• Higher tolerance and cleaner water: Native plants generally have a higher tolerance for local diseases and pests, requiring fewer pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical treatments. This means fewer harmful substances run off into the water.
• Biodiversity: Native plants sustain biodiversity and support the local ecosystem by providing food sources and habitat to pollinators, insects, and wildlife.
With all of the parks, waterfronts, and outdoor scenery across the Pacific Northwest, you have more than likely seen a diverse array of native plants. To find vegetation for your home, King County has plant guides and other information that can help you identify flora in the Washington and PNW area. Oregon State University is another resource for native plants in the PNW area.
\n\n\n\nNow that you have the resources you need for your native plant oasis, make sure you have a lawn that is lush and healthy, too. Contact a lawn care pro near you to do the mowing, edging, and trimming so you can spend more time enjoying the waterfall at Multnomah Falls.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Oregon Garden / Travel Salem / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for the Pacific Northwest","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/1789c/The-Oregon-Garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/107df/The-Oregon-Garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/293e9/The-Oregon-Garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/f2cbb/The-Oregon-Garden.jpg 800w,\n/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/1789c/The-Oregon-Garden.jpg 960w,\n/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/c26c2/The-Oregon-Garden.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/1dd6e/The-Oregon-Garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/67b76/The-Oregon-Garden.webp 320w,\n/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/8df11/The-Oregon-Garden.webp 500w,\n/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/98a65/The-Oregon-Garden.webp 800w,\n/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/1dd6e/The-Oregon-Garden.webp 960w,\n/static/51fec25990c4c27a1e3bc97a94d6277a/3cc96/The-Oregon-Garden.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for the Pacific Northwest","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"This article highlights the best native plants for the Pacific Northwest to build a beautiful garden that helps sustain the local ecosystem."}}}],"postCity":{"node":{"name":"Virginia Beach","slug":"virginia-beach","state":{"name":"Virginia","slug":"va"},"suburbs":[{"name":"Chesapeake","slug":"chesapeake"},{"name":"Williamsburg","slug":"williamsburg"},{"name":"Hampton","slug":"hampton"},{"name":"Hayes","slug":"hayes"},{"name":"Newport News","slug":"newport-news"},{"name":"Yorktown","slug":"yorktown"},{"name":"Norfolk","slug":"norfolk"},{"name":"Suffolk","slug":"suffolk"},{"name":"Gloucester","slug":"gloucester"},{"name":"Portsmouth","slug":"portsmouth"},{"name":"Smithfield","slug":"smithfield"}],"parentCity":null}}}}}![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/jSSUSRhOs618qD0ONbRuO8NXRC3Uh-uDyv57MognLQMo8gNg1IHN19JavEqvASIUHCAjNtpUcDs1v1wzQF3vApw70DexLxObeWznP0PItiXkBWgqLoEGa7Lia1IN0XAsyXZct-DB\")