![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Madison is the fastest-growing city in Wisconsin in terms of population growth. So many people means a wide variety of lawns, and Madison has no shortage of grass types to fill those booming landscapes. If you want to install a new lawn or breathe life into an existing lawn, these four grass types make for […]
\n","content":"\nMadison is the fastest-growing city in Wisconsin in terms of population growth. So many people means a wide variety of lawns, and Madison has no shortage of grass types to fill those booming landscapes. If you want to install a new lawn or breathe life into an existing lawn, these four grass types make for a fantastic starting point in Madison.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nYou may be wondering what would make a type of grass suitable for a Madison lawn. After all, as long as the grass is green, it should work, right?
\n\n\n\nWell, there are factors to consider when choosing your grass that will make your lawn care journey much smoother and more hassle-free. The three main concerns are as follows.
\n\n\n\nThe weather can get pretty cold in the Midwest during certain times of the year. Even during the high summer, the average temperature sits around 82 degrees and rarely climbs above 90 degrees. In addition to the lower temperatures, Madison sees a lot of cloudy days.
\n\n\n\nWhen choosing grass for your lawn, you should go with a cool-season species that doesn’t require a lot of sunlight. Many cool-season grass types will go dormant in the summer, but Madison’s milder heat means that they can stay green for longer periods of time. Combined with the ability to withstand the cold of winter, cool-season grass types remain beautiful for the majority of the year.
\n\n\n\nMadison is located in southern Wisconsin, a region built on silty forest soil. In fact, the designated state soil is Antigo Silt Loam, which is a well-drained soil formed under loamy sediment left behind by glacial melt thousands of years ago.
\n\n\n\nWhile you could replace the soil on your property with something wetter and less sandy, it’s easier to grow grass in the natural material that already exists. So, your grass should be able to thrive in loamy, sandy soil.
\n\n\n\nDo you intend to host barbecues, garden parties, or other events? How often would you like to mow your lawn? To what height do you want your grass to grow?
\n\n\n\nThese are all things you should consider when growing your lawn. Some grass types will be softer than others. Some will hold up to foot traffic better than others. And some grass types grow prodigiously, while others may not.
\n\n\n\nIt’s vital to find a grass type that suits your needs to ensure that you will be happy with your lawn for years to come.
\n\n\n\nTo cultivate a beautiful Madison lawn, these four grass types will be your best bet.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWidely considered one of the most popular cool-season choices for lawns across the midwest, Kentucky Bluegrass is highly drought-tolerant. It can also withstand some heat, though without a supplemental water supply, it will go dormant in the summer.
\n\n\n\nThe bluish-green leaves of Kentucky bluegrass grow into a lush carpet that retains its color year-round. It prefers full sun but will tolerate the shade of those cloudy days.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for grass that will help you get a jump start on spring planting, perennial ryegrass is your best bet. It’s one of the first grass types to turn green as soon as the snow melts and the temperatures begin rising.
\n\n\n\nThe University of Wisconsin-Madison recommends perennial ryegrass mainly for grazing and foraging. However, you’ll find it mixed with other grass types like Kentucky bluegrass to lend its hardiness and provide erosion protection.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue encompasses a group of cool-season grasses that includes hard fescue, sheep fescue, chewings fescue, and creeping red fescue. This group possesses fantastic drought tolerance among cool-season grasses, and its leaves remain green all year long if cared for properly.
\n\n\n\nWhile fine fescues don’t have the best heat tolerance, their superior ability to withstand shade puts them in the mix with grass types like perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ty Haller / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTall fescue is another grass commonly seen across the Midwest, and with good reason. It possesses some of the best heat and drought tolerance among cool-season grass types while still retaining the ability to remain green during the winter months.
\n\n\n\nThe name tall fescue is not a flippant moniker, however. This turf grass can grow as much as four feet tall and requires more frequent mowing than other cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nWhile Madison doesn’t experience particularly hot summers, it may be good to add sprigs of Bermudagrass to your lawn. This warm-season grass has great heat and drought tolerance while mixing well with Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass. Be sure to plant the turfgrass strain, however, as primitive strains spread aggressively enough to be considered a nuisance.
If your lawn is shady, you should consider a mix of tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. The mix is highly shade resistant while still providing a lush lawn.
Kentucky bluegrass is as popular as it is partially because it is a low-maintenance grass that still spreads into a beautiful lawn. You don’t need to water it as often as other cool-season grass types, and it doesn’t require as much fertilizer to retain its green hue.
The frosty temperatures of winter combined with mild Summer days make cool-season grasses the best choice for your Madison lawn. And though some of them can be low maintenance, they still need to be maintained. If you would like to worry less about that maintenance, leave it in the hands of a local lawn care pro who will take the best possible care of your landscape.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Bradley House / James Steakley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types For Madison, Wisconsin","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/1789c/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg","srcSet":"/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/107df/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 320w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/293e9/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 500w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/f2cbb/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 800w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/1789c/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 960w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/c26c2/Bradley-House-Madison.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/1dd6e/Bradley-House-Madison.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/67b76/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 320w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/8df11/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 500w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/98a65/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 800w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/1dd6e/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 960w,\n/static/356a8f488dc050baed9023bc16e54745/3cc96/Bradley-House-Madison.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types For Madison, Wisconsin","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Which grass types can you plant to withstand the nip of a Midwest winter? Here are four of the best choices for your Madison, Wisconsin lawn."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"1317afa2-6990-56ff-b781-6b3693010f0c","slug":"drought-tolerant-landscaping-ideas-oklahoma","path":"/lawn-care/ok/drought-tolerant-landscaping-ideas-oklahoma/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"d2d6ff96-cc14-5d0f-bbfe-f7eac3bba6d9","name":"Oklahoma","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ok/"}],"date":"May 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Several parts of Oklahoma are prone to tough periods of drought, especially in northwest counties, such as Cimarron, Texas, and Beaver. If you reside in similarly affected areas, it is vital you design a landscape that can tolerate drought conditions. If not, your yard could require plenty of maintenance and constant spending. So we’ve compiled […]
\n","content":"\nSeveral parts of Oklahoma are prone to tough periods of drought, especially in northwest counties, such as Cimarron, Texas, and Beaver. If you reside in similarly affected areas, it is vital you design a landscape that can tolerate drought conditions. If not, your yard could require plenty of maintenance and constant spending. So we’ve compiled a list of drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for Oklahoma, helping you spruce up your backyard in an efficient, cost-effective manner.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nWhen a landscape is drought-tolerant, it can thrive with little to no supplemental water. It consists of boulders, hardscapes, native perennials, and other features that are considered low-maintenance. Essentially, they are features or plants that can withstand dry periods.
\n\n\n\nHowever, drought-tolerant does not mean zero water needs. Native plants that tolerate drought may still require some amount of water to grow or survive. They are not entirely resistant to drought, but their water needs are quite low compared to other high-maintenance plants. This is one of the key purposes of a drought-tolerant landscape— conserving water!
\n\n\n\nThe upcoming section will cover 8 ideas for a drought-tolerant landscape, including hardscapes and artificial turfgrass.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bur](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bur-Oak-Quercus-Macrocarpa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNative plants grow naturally in Oklahoma, comfortably able to thrive as they are accustomed to its climate and soil conditions. Going native can reduce the amount of time spent on maintenance, attract hummingbirds and beneficial pollinators, and boost the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nHowever, not all Oklahoma native plants are able to withstand dry periods. Some trees or wildflowers require plenty of water to grow, so they are obviously not a good fit for your low-maintenance landscape. Additionally, you need to consider your area’s plant hardiness zone to select the right drought-tolerant plants.
\n\n\n\nTo help your decision-making process, below are some suggestions for native drought-tolerant plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Depending on the plant’s size and type, expect to pay between $600 and $3,000 per flower bed, $25 and $50 per shrub, $150 and $3,000 per tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rain](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rain-Garden.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Oregon State University / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA rain garden is a planted depression that collects rainwater runoff from the surrounding landscapes. For this type of garden, the soil and plants are uniquely selected to absorb the collected water. You can also add local rocks to the rain garden, to set garden borders or just to increase your yard’s visual appeal. In a way, a rain garden lets mother nature do all the watering for us.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to conserving water, here are some key benefits of a rain garden:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Installing a rain garden yourself will cost $3 to $5 per square foot, depending on the materials and plants you use. If you decide to hire a professional, installation may cost between $10 and $15 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sarah Stierch / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you wish a green lawn all year round, artificial grass is the way to go. You won’t have to worry about any damage from your kids running around playing lawn games. Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, synthetic turf doesn’t require any water! Artificial grass can withstand harsh weather conditions, including periods of drought.
\n\n\n\nDespite its high upfront cost, it can be a worthwhile investment and a terrific option for a drought-tolerant landscape.
\n\n\n\nHere are some benefits of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Hiring a professional landscaper to install artificial grass will cost you between $5 and $20 per square foot on average.
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-with-red-bark-mulch.jpg\")
Photo Credit: U. J. Alexander / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSimply put, mulch is an easy and cheap way to keep your garden bed hydrated. If you add some on top of deep-rooted plants with low water needs, you’ll get yourself a drought-tolerant yard. Mulch keeps your plant beds moist during the dry summer heat. You can add organic mulch that benefits the soil, or go for the aesthetically pleasing option with inorganic mulch.
\n\n\n\nOrganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulch:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: This depends on which type of mulch you choose. Wood mulch costs between $3 to $5 per 2 cubic foot bag, while landscape gravel costs between $4 to $30 per 0.5 cubic foot bag.
\n\n\n\n![\"Drip](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-Irrigation-Detail.jpg\")
Photo Credit: GrigoriosMoraitis / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDrip irrigation will prevent water being wasted by runoff or evaporated. This installation applies water at the plant root zone where it’s needed the most. Because of this, soil moisture levels are kept at an optimal level. You can apply drip irrigation in your vegetable or perennial garden, even to water shrubs or trees. Overall, it is an efficient and economical way to water your garden.
\n\n\n\nHere are some other benefits of drip irrigation:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Most homeowners pay between $295 and $775 for a drip irrigation system.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-Garden-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: LookTarn / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for an alternative to turfgrasses, look no further than a rock garden. With low water and maintenance needs, a rock garden takes trimming, weeding, and mowing off your to-do list. It features carefully arranged rocks, boulders, or stones. Consider adding succulents or perennial flowers to create a beautiful, colorful, and inviting garden.
\n\n\n\nIf designing a rock garden seems like a back-breaking task, stick to smaller boulders or stones that can easily be moved around. This would allow you to reshape your garden whenever you feel like mixing things up a little.
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Rock garden projects will cost you between $600 and $700 on average. To buy and install rocks or boulders yourself, the cost will range from $460 to $1,000, depending on the size and type of rock.
\n\n\n\n![\"Stack](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Stack-of-Brick-Pavers-for-Hardscape.jpg\")
Photo Credit: JPLDesigns / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardscapes are naturally low-maintenance features that are perfect for a drought-tolerant landscape. They are non-living elements that can improve your outdoor space functions. Unsurprisingly, they require no watering, pruning, or fertilizing. It’s great being able to relax with your family and friends around a fire pit, not worrying about countless hours of outdoor chores.
\n\n\n\nThese decorative and practical structures may still require some care, such as basic cleaning. Unless something goes majorly wrong, hardscaping does not require continuous maintenance for long periods of time.
\n\n\n\nHere are some examples of hardscaping for a drought-tolerant yard:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost will depend on the project size and type of feature you choose. Expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,500 for fencing, $370 and $2,235 for a fire pit, $5,055 and $17,275 for an outdoor kitchen.
\n\n\n\n![\"Xeriscaped](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscaped-Front-Yard-with-Dry-Creek-Bed-and-Solar-Lighting.jpg\")
Photo Credit: remedypic / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe’re not following the “save the best for the last” format, but xeriscaping is certainly among the best ideas for a drought-tolerant landscape. Its essential purpose is to use as little water as possible, helping you obtain a low-water and low-maintenance garden. Xeriscaping can help you reduce water bills, cut back on energy consumption, and eliminate chores such as mowing and weeding.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, it can attract beneficial insects and promote biodiversity. For a drought-tolerant landscape, xeriscaping is highly recommended. It can help you create a beautiful and eco-friendly landscape with minimal water consumption.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping can include:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: This depends on the size and type of project. For example, the cost of a groundcover ranges from $10 to $25. On average, homeowners spend between $5 and $20 per square foot on xeriscaping.
\n\n\n\nA drought-tolerant landscape does have financial benefits, but it also supports the local wildlife habitat. Native plants may serve as a valuable food source for many birds and insects, while a rain garden cleans the rainwater before it reaches lakes or rivers.
\n\n\n\nHere are more reasons why every Oklahoma homeowner should opt for a drought-tolerant landscape:
\n\n\n\nIn short, yes. A lot of homeowners think they’re the same concept, but their main difference can be spotted in each of the terms. Using plants as an example, drought-tolerant means they can withstand drought for a limited period only. If they go through months and months without any water, the plants could wither and die.
On the other hand, drought-resistant plants are ones that can go without water for long periods of time. Cacti are great examples of such plants, as we automatically picture them in dry, sunny areas.
Oklahoma lies in the South Central region of the United States, so it should come as no surprise that many parts of the state suffer from drought conditions. Areas northwest of Oklahoma City suffer more than the likes of Lincoln, Pittsburg, or McCurtain Counties.
To monitor the drought map and get weekly updates, you can check Oklahoma’s drought status here.
A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape will still require the occasional upkeep. Nothing major, but just enough to keep all your features in tip-top shape.
Here are simple ways to care for your drought-tolerant yard:
• Yearly mulching
• Water your new plants until they are established
• Aerate your soil yearly
• Trim, prune, and weed when needed
• Test your soil every 3 to 5 years (pH, condition..)
A drought-tolerant landscape has several advantages. It helps you save time, reduce maintenance costs, and keep your area’s climate healthy. Transforming your landscape will result in a more sustainable, cost-effective, and valuable property.
\n\n\n\nThere are many plant species that thrive in the local climate. Explore the best native plants for Oklahoma to freshen up your garden with long-lasting trees and beautiful wildflowers. If your turfgrass is beginning to look grim and patchy, check out the best grass types for Oklahoma and enjoy barbecues on a lush, green lawn.
\n\n\n\nLooking to spend the weekend with your family at the Oklahoma City Zoo? Hire a local lawn care pro to trim the shrubs, mow the lawn, or plant drought-tolerant turfgrass such as Bermudagrass. We have trusted lawn care pros in Oklahoma City, Bixby, Okmulgee, and many other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: MARELBU / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"8 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Oklahoma","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1789c/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/107df/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 320w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/293e9/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 500w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/f2cbb/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 800w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1789c/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 960w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/c26c2/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1dd6e/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/67b76/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 320w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/8df11/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 500w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/98a65/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 800w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1dd6e/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 960w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/3cc96/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Oklahoma","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Get started on a sustainable, low-water, and low-maintenance outdoor living space by exploring 8 drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for Oklahoma."}}},{"node":{"id":"0636b7c9-4161-5503-8091-e0c7443180df","slug":"best-grass-types-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/best-grass-types-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"April 30th, 2023","excerpt":"Virginia is known for its hot summers and moderately cold winters, so you may often choose to stay home and relax in your own backyard. Whether it’s playing lawn games or having a family barbecue, it won’t be as memorable on a brown, grim-looking turfgrass. By examining the best grass types for Virginia, the only […]
\n","content":"\nVirginia is known for its hot summers and moderately cold winters, so you may often choose to stay home and relax in your own backyard. Whether it’s playing lawn games or having a family barbecue, it won’t be as memorable on a brown, grim-looking turfgrass. By examining the best grass types for Virginia, the only words to describe your lawn will be healthy and luscious green.
\n\n\n\nAlong with having several plant hardiness zones, Virginia is divided into 5 regions that include Piedmont and Tidewater. It also lies in the transition zone, so there’s never one definitive answer to which grass seed will thrive in your area. Northern parts of the state are more suitable for cool-season grasses, while cities in the Coastal Plain area are better suited for warm-season grasses. The upcoming section will highlight the best types of grasses for every major part of your beloved state.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith a wide variety of grass types to choose from, it is important to distinguish between warm- and cool-season grass. Here are some of their main differences:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. During the winter, warm-season grasses will turn brown and become dormant. They have low frost-tolerance, enjoy high temperatures, and require less water than cool-season grasses. Warm-season grasses include Zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses thrive when temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They are able to tolerate frost, lower light, and lower temperatures than warm-season grasses. They can stay green throughout the winter, especially in transition zones like Virginia. Cool-season turfgrasses include tall fescue, creeping red fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue is a bunch-type grass known for its adaptability to a wide range of climates. It is suitable for northern and southern transition zones. This grass type germinates quicker than other cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass. Additionally, tall fescue has a deep root system, giving it a superior heat and drought tolerance. One downside to this grass is that it grows in clumps, limiting its capacity to self-repair when damage occurs.
\n\n\n\nTall fescue grass can thrive in almost every region across the state, such as Piedmont, Northern Virginia, Coastal Plain, and Southwestern Virginia.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/zoysiagrass-4.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Russbach / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nOf all the warm-season grasses, zoysiagrass is one of the best in tolerating cold temperatures. With several species and cultivars available, it is a suitable turfgrass for transition zones. It may establish slower than some other warm-season grasses, but will eventually form a dense carpet of grass beneath your feet. You can overseed zoysia lawns with cool-season ryegrass for a green winter color. Overall, this grass type is perfect for families who enjoy lawn games and plenty of backyard activities.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant this grass seed anywhere in Virginia except for the Valley and Ridge region and Blue Ridge Mountains.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but recovers slowly from damage
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although, it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance overall
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a self-spreading, sod-forming grass that is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to walk on barefoot. With an aggressive growth habit, it has an excellent capacity for self-repair. This makes Kentucky bluegrass an excellent choice for lawns that need to endure heavy foot traffic. This cool-season grass is not a good fit for shady lawns, so you might want to consider another shade-tolerant grass such as fine fescue.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is a great choice for homeowners in Northern Virginia, Piedmont, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass has the fastest growing rate of all warm-season grasses. This helps it recover quickly from damage. Bermudagrass is more sensitive to cold than zoysiagrass, and flourishes in sites with full sun and good drainage. Overall, this turfgrass has excellent wear, drought, and salt tolerance.
\n\n\n\nIt’s important to mention that bermudagrass is not a good fit for shady lawns. If you need a shade-tolerant grass that tolerates foot traffic, zoysiagrass might be the better choice.
\n\n\n\nYou can successfully grow this grass seed if you live in Piedmont, Northern Virginia, Tidewater, and Southwestern Virginia.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid Bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common Bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to disease, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is best adapted to regions with moderate temperatures throughout the year. It has the highest wear-tolerance of any cool-season grass, with the ability to tolerate heavy foot traffic. This grass species has a rapid germination rate, which makes it ideal for overseeding warm-season grasses. When winter creeps in, overseeding will help extend your lawn’s green period.
\n\n\n\nIf your family occasionally enjoys a few rounds of BucketBall, perennial ryegrass is a great option for your lawn. The Piedmont and Tidewater regions are the only parts of Virginia where this grass seed cannot thrive.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch is not significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spot, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8, but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility, but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/St-Augustinegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 US
\n\n\n\nBeing the least cold-tolerant of all the warm-season grasses, St Augustinegrass grows best in areas that are not exposed to long periods of cold temperatures. It has an aggressive growth habit, but can easily be controlled around borders and flower beds. If you have a shady backyard, this species is the most shade-tolerant of all the warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nSt Augustinegrass has a fair tolerance to salt, making it suitable for the Coastal Plain area. It cannot thrive in any other part of Virginia, particularly the north, as it is very susceptible to winter injury.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate. It is the most shade tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 3.5 and 4 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Centipedegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is commonly known as “lazy man’s grass”, mainly because it requires less mowing and maintenance than other warm-season grasses. This grass species is not very wear-resistant and cannot withstand heavy foot traffic. Unlike other warm-season grasses, centipedegrass is unable to compete with other species, so overseeding with ryegrass is not recommended.
\n\n\n\nSimilar to St Augustinegrass, you can grow this grass seed only if you reside in the Tidewater region.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results)
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is one of the most fine-textured turfgrasses available. It has lower maintenance requirements than Kentucky bluegrass. If you decide to leave this grass unmowed, it will help create an attractive, dune-like appearance. It comes in a variety of species, including creeping red and chewings fescue. Taking the lead as the most shade-tolerant cool-season grass, fine fescue is a great choice if you have sycamore trees shading the lawn.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue is often mixed with tall fescue to enhance performance in shady areas. If you live in the Valley and Ridge or Piedmont regions, fine-leaf grass seeds will be a suitable option for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as Chewings, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. Prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nThe best grass types for Central Virginia include:
\n\n\n\nThe best grass type for Northern Virginia include:
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a great choice of turfgrass for your backyard in Tidewater. It is a warm-season grass with the ability to tolerate shade, drought, and heavy foot traffic. It performs well during the colder months and resists weed growth, with the only downside being that it recovers slowly from damage.
Tall fescue is an incredibly versatile grass that can grow in nearly every part of Virginia. Being a cool-season grass, it is a perfect fit for Shenandoah Valley. Even if temperatures rise higher than usual, tall fescue has deep root systems that make it drought- and heat-tolerant.
One of the good things about cool-season grasses is that they can be planted in mixtures. Given Northern Virginia’s climate, this approach is preferable than choosing one specific type of grass. For a great mixture of grass seeds that can tolerate cold temperatures, shade, and heavy foot traffic, the following types are recommended:
• Kentucky bluegrass
• Perennial ryegrass
• Fescue such as creeping red
We each want something different out of our backyard. Some homeowners wish to limit outdoor chores with a low-maintenance lawn, while more active families tend to enjoy plenty of lawn games and barbecues. Depending on your personal preferences, you should choose the right type of grass or seed mix that will meet your needs.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to turfgrass, there are more ways to spruce up your backyard and create the ultimate outdoor space. Consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas for your lawn, including Virginia’s native plants and hardscaping features.
\n\n\n\nRegardless of how low-maintenance your lawn is, it may still require the occasional mowing, pruning, or aerating. Looking for a Virginia lawn care pro near you? We have trusted lawn care pros in Chesapeake, Arlington, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesterfield, and many more cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: PxHere
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\n","content":"\nMoving to our nation’s capital is a big decision. You might have heard that it’s expensive and too busy to be your home, but don’t let those negative thoughts get to you. Living in Washington D.C. has some huge perks, plus a developing culture that is vibrant and alive.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/veOduYvfdkA5YREMMFIGOkHT0PEO5ghLbPYeY_I-6ZLbaU0K7ZjRi8tsaqPKWaKtFOnles91Mx7hWUoDK_7ENkTydzOW1dQHfj7xIqt7yIrR364nHYv2VjuGUIPgWw1zltAWLLFb\")
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![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/df93uuVFphY1mQsEl8ihXD20U37BplgCGYmqKYGjMf8mWUpryihCHvXssQh-jhWWtE1iaNexlQALKY7hXb6F84jbUdWGtxZC3K0dFv6etJekxF5Xnr5ZJAIFEi7C15Cn4YRuYkH6\")
Looking for lawn care services in Washington DC? Or maybe you’re looking for lawn care advice because you’re a DIY kind of person? Visit our Washington DC lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"What is it like to live in Washington D.C.? (in 30 Pictures)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.509433962264151,"src":"/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/f2cbb/washington-dc-skyline.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/107df/washington-dc-skyline.jpg 320w,\n/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/293e9/washington-dc-skyline.jpg 500w,\n/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/f2cbb/washington-dc-skyline.jpg 800w","srcWebp":"/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/98a65/washington-dc-skyline.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/67b76/washington-dc-skyline.webp 320w,\n/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/8df11/washington-dc-skyline.webp 500w,\n/static/f3b198f37a4cfc27cef588eaede05aa9/98a65/washington-dc-skyline.webp 800w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"What is it like to live in Washington D.C.? (in 30 Pictures) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"f3b67bb5-6efc-5204-9fc2-8b87b2fb54f8","slug":"worst-lawn-weeds-dallas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/dallas/worst-lawn-weeds-dallas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.","name":"Kimberly Magerl","id":"bdf803c6-4d01-5c0e-88b1-1ea590340a8a","path":"/author/kimberly-magerl/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/45ebe89479badde7ee7cb5108a96462c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f27be613-d60f-50d6-bb69-080e785141e0","name":"Dallas","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/dallas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"Weeds are like stealthy ninjas, gaining control of your lawn and bringing it to the brink of destruction. Even when you think you are doing everything right, diligently applying your pre-emergent herbicide and swooping in immediately to pull weeds that pop up in your lush Dallas lawn, these pesky invaders multiply before your eyes. Luckily, […]
\n","content":"\nWeeds are like stealthy ninjas, gaining control of your lawn and bringing it to the brink of destruction. Even when you think you are doing everything right, diligently applying your pre-emergent herbicide and swooping in immediately to pull weeds that pop up in your lush Dallas lawn, these pesky invaders multiply before your eyes. Luckily, we compiled a list of the most common lawn weeds in Dallas, including tips on how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWeed Control Chemical Treatments
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike a good con man, weeds love a weak spot. These lawn invaders signify an underlying problem with your lawn’s health. They love low-nitrogen soils, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf. Maintain a healthy lawn with routine maintenance, watering, and fertilization schedules, and the weeds won’t stand a chance.
\n\n\n\nCheck out some reasons why weed control is so important:
\n\n\n\nThere are two ways to control weeds in your lawn: chemical treatments and hand pulling. Pulling weeds by hand is the safest removal method, but it isn’t always the best. Be sure to identify the type of weed you are dealing with before selecting your removal method.
\n\n\n\nExperts agree, hand weeding is just as important as chemical removal methods. You should aim to weed your yard and garden weekly or bi-weekly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Annual-Bluegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAnnual bluegrass, also known as Poa annua, is an annual grass that reproduces with creeping stolons. It appears in late summer and lasts through fall. It has a dense, clumping growth pattern with serrated, boat-shaped leaves.
\n\n\n\nAnnual bluegrass grows rapidly, easily out-competing existing turfgrass. It is important to note this annual weed is adaptable and responds well to mowing, and it is used as turfgrass in commercial settings like golf courses.
\n\n\n\nAnnual bluegrass is best controlled using a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall and responding to follow-up growth with a post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefers disturbed, cultivated soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nKnown as Texas thistle in Dallas, bull thistle is a broadleaf biennial, meaning it takes two years to complete its life cycle when left undisturbed. It blooms dark-pink, prickly flowers, and puffy seed heads spread in the air for germination like dandelions.
\n\n\n\nSpray Texas thistle with post-emergent herbicide after it flowers, usually in early to late spring. Don’t worry if you have to come back and spray the pesky weed again. It can take several applications to get rid of the hardy biennial completely.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf biennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; prickly flowers, mildly toxic to humans and livestock
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Common-Chickweed.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Lazaregagnidze / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nCommon chickweed appears during North Texas winters. Star-shaped white flowers bloom in low-growing mats of leaves. The broadleaf annual stands up to mowing well, making it difficult to get rid of.
\n\n\n\nIt is an edible weed and is often fed to poultry. Chickweed thrives in moist, shaded areas. Removal methods include pulling the weed by hand, being sure you get the root system and spraying pre-emergent herbicide in early spring.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, shady lawns and gardens, especially near buildings
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; edible but large quantities cause stomach irritation in humans
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Crabgrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCrabgrass thrives in the Dallas summer. This annual grassy weed prefers dry soil. Its blades and leaf sheaths are covered by dense hairs that irritate the skin, and the high stalks steal valuable nutrients from your turfgrass.
\n\n\n\nIt reproduces quickly and grows faster than your lawn. Crabgrass loves the sun and overtakes thin lawns. Think twice before cutting your grass extremely short to lessen your mowing frequency, as the fast-growing weed will overtake it quickly.
\n\n\n\nThe best method to get rid of crabgrass is to use a pre-emergent herbicide and maintain a healthy and dense lawn with routine fertilization and a consistent watering schedule.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Annual grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-11
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Sparse, disturbed habitats like thin lawns, gardens, vacant lots, roads, and grass paths
\n\n\n\nDanger: None
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide, and routine lawn maintenance
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Creeping-Charlie.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCreeping Charlie, or ground ivy in Texas, is a broadleaf perennial herb. Its distinguishable scalloped leaves and clusters of purple flowers pop up in the spring and quickly spread, or creep, to form a dense green carpet.
\n\n\n\nThe minty-smelling weed loves unhealthy, patchy grass, low-fertility soils, and shady spots. The best way to unfriend this herb isn’t to ignore it. Instead, maintain your lawn’s pH levels by following a regular fertilization plan and use post-emergent broadleaf herbicide to eliminate the pest.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, shaded locations
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; toxic to horses in large quantities
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide, regular fertilization schedule
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dallisgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nDallisgrass is a warm-season perennial grass that loves to invade Texas turfgrass, especially bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass. It is aggressive and difficult to control thanks to multiple reproductive methods, including seeds, rhizomes, and stolons. Dallisgrass has a clumped, circular appearance with rough edges.
\n\n\n\nProper lawn maintenance is the best line of defense against this aggressive grassy weed. It also responds well to hand pulling and pre-emergent herbicides in the spring.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; prefers moist disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; non-toxic but susceptible to ergot fungus, which is toxic to livestock and horses
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Routine lawn maintenance, pre-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Dandelion.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nDandelions seem like fun when you are a kid, but they turn into nightmares when you own your own lawn. These perennials behave like annuals and are a broadleaf weed. Dandelions pop up in the Dallas spring, beginning with their trademark bright yellow flowers before turning into light, puffy helicopter blade seeds that want nothing more than to be airborne.
\n\n\n\nDandelions have a taproot that grows vertically downward between 6 to 18 inches deep. Unfortunately, removing the entire dandelion by hand is next to impossible, and the best removal method is a broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; prefer disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; edible but may cause irritation in some people
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hairy-Bittercress.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schulz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHairy bittercress thrives in moist environments, popping up after early spring rains with blooms of tiny white flowers. The annual’s flowers turn into pods, dispersing seeds to propagate the plant. Post-emergent weed control is the best method to manage hairy bittercress before the seeds disperse.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Cultivated and open ground, rocks, and walls
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Henbit.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Miltos Gikas / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHenbit is a cool-season broadleaf annual with square branching stems. It is hairy with circular leaves and purple flowers. It spreads aggressively in the North Texas winters. Thankfully, it has shallow roots and responds well to hand pulling and pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; prefers disturbed lawns, pastures, gardens, nursery plots, and building edges
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent herbicide, post-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Purslane.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Júlio Reis / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nPurslane is a low-growing succulent and broadleaf annual weed. It loves the rocky soil of North Texas, thriving in between cracks. It is adaptable and will easily encroach on turfgrass. Purslane is drought and heat-tolerant, surviving hot Dallas summers.
\n\n\n\nPurslane grows through spreading in a matted web. It has purple stems, alternating oval leaves, and yellow flowers. The best method to control purslane is hand pulling, ensuring you remove the whole root system.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; edible
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nutsedge.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeevan Jose, Kerala, India / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNutsedge, “the world’s worst weed,” is a perennial sedge weed with a triangular stem. It is drought-tolerant but prefers moist, undrained Texas soil. It grows faster than turfgrass and thrives in warm weather before going dormant in cool weather, only to pop up again when it warms back up.
\n\n\n\nTreat nutsedge with post-emergent herbicide and ensure your lawn is thick and healthy, being sure to fix drainage issues. Left unattended, the sedge perennial will thrive in bare spots, coming back year after year.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Sedge perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, poorly drained soil
\n\n\n\nDanger: Non-toxic; no safety hazards
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Quackgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nQuackgrass sounds made up, but this perennial grass loves the Texas fall and winter seasons. It out-competes turfgrass and other weeds, spreading in large clumps with rhizomes. Quackgrass has coarse blades and resembles wheat.
\n\n\n\nPull quackgrass by hand, being sure to remove the roots. The perennial grass also responds well to spot treatment using post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Perennial grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-10
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist areas
\n\n\n\nDanger: Noxious; quickly overtakes fields and crops
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent herbicide, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Spotted-Spurge.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nEven though spotted spurge is a broadleaf annual, it is a nuisance. Like dandelions, this resilient weed has a long taproot which seemingly brings this zombie weed back from the dead. Spurge grows fast, and its tangled web of leaves spreads low. It loves dry, Texas soil and sun.
\n\n\n\nPull spotted spurge by hand, but be sure to wear gloves. The zombie plant exudes a skin-irritating milky sap. This annual responds well to pre-emergent herbicide, or you can opt for a post-emergent herbicide if your spurge has already bloomed.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Broadleaf annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; prefer sunny, dry, disturbed habitats like lawns, pastures, paths, and sidewalks
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; irritating milky sap
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Pre-emergent, post-emergent, hand removal
\n\n\n\n![\"large](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/White-Clover.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lawn Weeds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhite clover is another broadleaf perennial like dandelions that loves Dallas yards. It thrives in sparse turfgrass, blooming white flowers in the summer. Clover typically signals low nitrogen levels in your soil.
\n\n\n\nTo remove the pesky good-luck charm, douse it with iron-based herbicides. You can also weed them by hand, taking care to remove their root systems.
\n\n\n\nPlant Type: Broadleaf perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Nitrogen-poor, grassy habitats
\n\n\n\nDanger: Toxic; damaged leaf tissues release cyanide
\n\n\n\nRemoval method: Post-emergent, iron-based herbicide and hand removal
\n\n\n\nSelective herbicides control specific weeds or weed families.
Non-selective herbicides are typically more potent than selective herbicides. They work on many weeds, including grassy and broadleaf. However, they also wipe out good vegetation and turfgrass. These heavy-duty herbicides are best left to the professionals.
Perennial weeds are the toughest to control thanks to their underground reproductive systems, including rhizomes and tubers. These weeds regrow season after season. Perennial weeds include clover, spotted spurge, dandelion, crabgrass, and chickweed. The best method to prevent perennial weeds from returning is hand weeding, ensuring you remove the entire root system.
Weeds are a nuisance, and no matter how diligent you are, they will pop up in your yard. The best defense against an invasion is a healthy lawn. There are many low-maintenance landscaping options available for Dallas, including weed-controlling mulch, and be sure to check out our list of the best native plants that will thrive in your Texas landscape.
\n\n\n\nIf you need some help killing weeds before your next backyard barbecue, contact a Dallas lawn care pro today to keep your lawn healthy year-round.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Leonora (Ellie) Enking / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"14 Worst Lawn Weeds in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1789c/Lawn-Weeds.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/107df/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 320w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/293e9/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 500w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/f2cbb/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 800w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1789c/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 960w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/c26c2/Lawn-Weeds.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1dd6e/Lawn-Weeds.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/67b76/Lawn-Weeds.webp 320w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/8df11/Lawn-Weeds.webp 500w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/98a65/Lawn-Weeds.webp 800w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/1dd6e/Lawn-Weeds.webp 960w,\n/static/a202eb421861797e466cba25e04ec42d/3cc96/Lawn-Weeds.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"14 Worst Lawn Weeds in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Weeds are common in Dallas thanks to the Texas sun and warm weather. Get rid of them with a few simple tips."}}},{"node":{"id":"b93112dc-713d-5e19-b7b4-68861a0188ce","slug":"best-grass-types-new-orleans","path":"/lawn-care/la/new-orleans/best-grass-types-new-orleans/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"},{"id":"ead65a59-ae54-536e-a7e9-908c849a1fc5","name":"New Orleans","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/new-orleans/"}],"date":"April 6th, 2023","excerpt":"To achieve a lush green lawn in New Orleans, it is crucial to select the best grass type that can effectively withstand high levels of heat and humidity. The city, famous for jazz music and gumbo, is also notorious for its unpredictable weather patterns. The summers are hot and humid, while fall can be variable, […]
\n","content":"\nTo achieve a lush green lawn in New Orleans, it is crucial to select the best grass type that can effectively withstand high levels of heat and humidity. The city, famous for jazz music and gumbo, is also notorious for its unpredictable weather patterns.
\n\n\n\nThe summers are hot and humid, while fall can be variable, with some days feeling like summer and others like winter. The winters, on the other hand, are brief and cool. Hence, to maintain a beautiful lawn in this region, you need to carefully consider the best grass types that are suitable for New Orleans’ climate.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re planning on growing a lawn, you’ll need to choose between warm-season and cool-season grasses. Here’s a hint: You’ll likely want to choose warm-season grass for your New Orleans lawn.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in warm conditions and prefer long summers and mild temperatures during winter. Warm-season grasses are green when temperatures warm up in spring and enter dormancy when temperatures drop in autumn and winter.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses, on the other hand, prefer milder temperatures and perform better in cooler climates. These grasses are like the cozy sweaters you wear in the fall, providing warmth and comfort during the cooler months.
\n\n\n\nSo, when it comes to choosing between warm-season and cool-season grasses, it all depends on where you live and what kind of weather you’re dealing with.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in warm conditions and prefer long summers and mild winters. These grasses are characterized by their ability to grow quickly and tolerate hot temperatures, making them the perfect choice for New Orleans’ hot and humid climate.
\n\n\n\nSo, if you want a lawn that can handle the New Orleans heat and still look fabulous, here’s more information about 5 warm-season grass types for The Big Easy:
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a fine-textured turfgrass that spreads laterally by rhizomes and stolons. It boasts an impressive drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for those hot summers that never end. And don’t worry about all those backyard barbecues and kids playing rough in the backyard; bermudagrass has a high-traffic tolerance that can handle all the wear your family and friends can dish out.
\n\n\n\nBut be warned, bermudagrass has poor shade tolerance, so make sure your lawn gets plenty of sunlight. Bermudagrass also needs frequent mowing to keep its best look. Watch out for those pesky flower beds because bermudagrass has invasive qualities that can take over if you’re not careful.
\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 disease resistance, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: The extensive root system of bermudagrass provides more resilience against environmental stresses than other warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is known for its attractive blue-green appearance. Still, it’s also one of the most shade-tolerant grasses. So, if your yard is surrounded by trees or buildings, St. Augustinegrass is a great option to keep your lawn looking lush and healthy. However, it’s worth noting that St. Augustinegrass has lower traffic tolerance. Consider other options if you have kids or pets who love to run around and play outside.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is highly sensitive to the chinch bug, a pesky insect that can wreak havoc on your lawn. But with proper care and maintenance, you can keep them at bay and enjoy a healthy, vibrant lawn.
\n\n\n\nRegarding water, St. Augustinegrass has a moderate to high drought tolerance. That means it can handle some dryness, but it still needs to be watered regularly during the hot months.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate. It is the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 3.5 and 4 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: St. Augustinegrass is not available in seed form commercially. That means it needs to be established via sod, plugs, or sprigs. While this can be a bit more expensive than seeding, it also means that you’ll have a lawn that’s more consistent in terms of color and texture.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for grass that’s dense, lush, and great to walk on barefoot, then Zoysiagrass might just be the perfect fit for your New Orleans lawn. This warm-season grass is known for its carpeted growth, which competes well against weeds and creates a thick, green lawn perfect for play and relaxation. And speaking of play, Zoysiagrass has a high traffic tolerance, making it a great choice for families who love to spend time outside.
\n\n\n\nHowever, it’s worth noting that Zoysiagrass is slow to recover from damage. Still, you can keep your lawn looking lush year-round with proper care and maintenance. Zoysiagrass has moderate shade tolerance; it’s the second most shade-tolerant warm-season grass, making it an excellent choice for areas of your yard that don’t get as much sun.
\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\nOther notes: Zoysiagrass is slow to establish, making sod the optimal choice for installation. While this can be more expensive than other installation methods, it’s worth the investment if you want a consistently lush and green lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar JamesBecwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is known for its vibrant apple-green color, which adds color to any yard. And the best part? Centipedegrass is incredibly low maintenance. You won’t need to mow, lime, fertilize, or dethatch as often as with other types of grass.
\n\n\n\nHowever, centipedegrass has low traffic tolerance. Additionally, while it has outstanding heat tolerance, it doesn’t equate to drought tolerance. In comparison with other warm-season grasses, centipedegrass’ root system is shallow. So, you need to be extra vigilant and water it during times of low rainfall.
\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\nMaintenance needs: Low. It requires low mowing and fertilizers.
\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\nOther notes: Centipedegrass is not a salt-tolerant grass. It grows slowly.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Seashore-Paspalum-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to selecting the best grass for New Orleans, seashore paspalum grass is an excellent choice. This type of grass can effectively withstand the high levels of heat and humidity that are prevalent in the region. Additionally, since New Orleans is located next to the saltwater lake Lake Pontchartrain, seashore paspalum is an ideal option due to its excellent salt tolerance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes and stolons
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low to Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Moderate fertilizer and frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: Set the mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate. Common diseases include large patch and dollar spot.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Tolerates a wide soil pH range, from 3.6 to 10.2.
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Tolerates a wide range of soils, including wet, saline soil.
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: It is the most salt tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nIt´s bermudagrass. The reason for Bermudagrass’s popularity in Louisiana is its ability to adjust to diverse climatic and soil conditions. This adaptable turfgrass is widely grown due to its capacity to form an appealing and thick sod.
When choosing a warm-season grass type for a shady lawn, there are a few options to consider. One of the best warm-season grasses for shade is St. Augustinegrass. This grass type is known for its ability to thrive in shaded areas, making it an excellent choice for lawns shaded by trees or buildings.
Because of its extensive root system, bermudagrass, known as wiregrass or devil grass, tolerates plenty of sports and foot traffic. Bermudagrass fares best in warmer weather, making it the natural choice for active, summer-loving families.
Choosing the right grass variety can transform your backyard into an oasis. Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, centipedegrass, and seashore paspalum grass are all excellent options, each with unique advantages that can help you create a lush and vibrant lawn.
\n\n\n\nRemember, however, that the grass variety you choose is just one component of a complete landscape. You can enhance the beauty of your backyard by using native plants and low maintenance landscaping designs.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to ensure that your lawn and backyard look their best, consider hiring a professional to help with maintenance. Contact a New Orleans lawn care pro who can provide regular maintenance services to keep your lawn healthy and vibrant.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Audubon Boulevard, Uptown New Orleans / Infrogmation of New Orleans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for New Orleans","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/1789c/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/107df/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 320w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/293e9/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 500w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/f2cbb/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 800w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/1789c/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 960w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/c26c2/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/1dd6e/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/67b76/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 320w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/8df11/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 500w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/98a65/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 800w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/1dd6e/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 960w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/3cc96/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for New Orleans | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Need to choose a grass for your lawn? We've gathered the five best grass types for New Orleans yards so you can grow a thriving green lawn in The Big Easy."}}},{"node":{"id":"a272f150-42e5-5164-984b-3cff33b7fc2a","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/low-maintenance-landscaping/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Gorski lives with her family in Texas. She has a degree in Professional Studies and a minor in marketing. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, and writing.","name":"Danielle Gorski","id":"7c21f4d6-aa31-5681-9530-3d69932d07c4","path":"/author/danielle-gorski/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d4dbd5997a7fe91daa87a0bd0839baff?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":"April 3rd, 2023","excerpt":"Tampa has so much to offer, from Ybor City to Lowry Zoo to the Gulf Coast beaches. So why spend your weekends weeding the yard when you could be out with the family enjoying the sites? If you want more free time and lessen your yard work load, make your landscape easy to maintain. From […]
\n","content":"\nTampa has so much to offer, from Ybor City to Lowry Zoo to the Gulf Coast beaches. So why spend your weekends weeding the yard when you could be out with the family enjoying the sites?
\n\n\n\nIf you want more free time and lessen your yard work load, make your landscape easy to maintain. From xeriscaping to native plants, check out these 8 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Tampa.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nYard work is a year-round chore in Tampa with the mild climate and hot, humid temperatures. Beat the heat by trying these low-maintenance landscaping ideas so that you can spend less time working on your yard and have more time to enjoy the Tampa sights.
\n\n\n\n![\"plants](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeremy Levine / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA xeriscape is landscaping that requires very little water, which means they require less care. Natural rainfall should be sufficient for a xeriscape to survive without your landscaping needing any supplemental water.
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping includes:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Turning your traditional landscape into a xeriscape costs $1.50-$2.50 per square foot. Depending on the nature and scope of the project, overall costs range from $8,737 to $22,226. Although the initial cost is expensive, decreased watering and maintenance expenses save homeowners money long-term.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want your landscaping to thrive with the minimum amount of effort, a simple solution is to plant Florida-friendly native plants that thrive in subtropical, humid temperatures.
\n\n\n\nLook for plants that are drought-tolerant and pest resistant. The more durable and hardy a plant, the more likely it is to survive on its own without a helping hand. Avoid plants that are delicate or picky, as these take more time and effort to keep happy.
\n\n\n\nSome Florida native plants that are good for Tampa landscapes:
\n\n\n\nLow-maintenance native plants require minimal care and don’t need regular watering, pruning, or spraying in order to thrive. These Florida-friendly plants are acclimated to the local environment. Look for plants that are:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Average prices for native plants are $15 to $50 per shrub, $5 to $50 per vine, and $150 and $3,000 per tree. For a more thorough project, homeowners can expect to pay $585 to $3,300 for a professional flower bed installation.
\n\n\n\n![\"Patio](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Patio.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you are looking for ways to reduce living space for your landscaping plants and grass to grow, try filling those places with hardscapes. Some ideas you can try are:
\n\n\n\nHardscapes are easy to maintain because they don’t require trimming, fertilizing, watering, or any of the time-consuming tasks that caring for a lawn and plants require. The only thing that hardscapes require is an occasional cleaning.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Hardscaping can be expensive. The price of the project depends on what kind of landscape design and type of hardscape you are installing in your outdoor space.
\n\n\n\n| Project | Price |
| Decorative rock | $460 – $1,000 |
| Rock garden | $460 – $1,000 |
| Stone paver | $8 – $22 per square foot |
| Pergola | $2,000 – $9,000 |
| Gazebo | $4,828 – $9,930 |
| Patio | $2,000 – $6,500 |
| Deck | $4,000 – 11,000 |
| Fire pit | $500 – $3,000 |
| Retaining wall | $3,622 – $9,582 |
![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Blue-daze.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGrass takes a long time to mow in the blistering summer heat. Instead of grass, try planting groundcover. These low-growing plants only grow a few inches tall but they act as filler that keeps your lawn green and full. They provide a natural look and require little to no mowing, Groundcovers also attract bees and butterflies to your yard.
\n\n\n\nSome popular groundcovers in Tampa yards include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcovers:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Trading turfgrass for groundcover can cost $4.50 to $26 per square foot. The type of groundcover will determine the price. If homeowners have to remove their grass from their lawn first, it will cost extra.
\n\n\n\n![\"Artificial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Nick Bastian / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want a green lawn year-round without the work it requires, consider installing artificial turf. Artificial grass mimics the appearance of real grass. What’s better is that it comes in a variety of different types so you can choose the perfect grass type for your yard. Some artificial turfs are so life-like that your neighbors won’t be able to tell it isn’t real grass!
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial turf:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: While prices vary depending on the type of artificial grass you choose and the shape and size of your yard, artificial turf costs about $5-$20 per square foot. Although the upfront costs are expensive, artificial turf doesn’t require maintenance, which saves homeowners a lot of expenses on watering, mowing, and fertilizing.
\n\n\n\n![\"pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want a low-maintenance yard, it only makes sense to pick perennial plants. Unlike annuals or biennial plants, perennial plants live for several years. They usually go dormant during the winter and come back again during the warm season.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re tired of buying and planting new plants in your plant beds every year, try investing in perennials for your yard.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: The cost depends on the type of plant. All plants are priced differently and some plants are more expensive than others. Perennials typically are more expensive than annuals, although the long-term cost of perennials will be cheaper than replacing your plants every year.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ronstik / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMulch retains water, keeping your plant beds moist during the sweltering summer days. The longer the soil retains moisture, the less frequently your plants need to be watered.
\n\n\n\nThere are two different categories of mulch: organic and inorganic. Organic mulch is made from plant material such as tree bark, grass clippings, or pine needles. You will have to reapply mulch to your yard more frequently, since after a while organic mulch decomposes and will need to be replaced.
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulches are made of plastic or stone. Although inorganic mulches are low-maintenance and don’t need to be reapplied to flower beds as frequently as organic mulches, they aren’t as hurricane-resistant as organic mulches are.
\n\n\n\nMulch is inexpensive and readily available. Spreading a layer of mulch around your plants is an easy DIY job that will help your landscape thrive with little maintenance.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated costs: The price for a bag of mulch costs depends on the type of mulch. Some mulch types, such as leaves or pine needles, are free if they are found around your own yard.
\n\n\n\n![\"Set](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Wikilawn-Sprinklers.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aqua Mechanical / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAutomatic irrigation systems put your mind at ease, as they can be programmed to automatically water areas of the yard with a specific amount of water. With this preprogrammed technology, you can have a watered lawn without the stress of manually watering your grass yourself.
\n\n\n\nSome sprinklers have a rain sensor that allows them to automatically adjust to local water levels. Automatic irrigation systems can also be adjusted by season to fulfill your lawn’s water needs.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners can either have an in-ground sprinkler system installed or buy an above-ground sprinkler head. In-ground irrigation systems have an underground water source. Above-ground sprinkler heads must be attached to a water source above the ground, typically a hose.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of an automatic irrigation system:
\n\n\n\nEstimated costs: The average price of an in-ground automatic irrigation system is between $2,400 and $4,200. An above-ground sprinkler hose attachment costs between $9 and $36.
\n\n\n\nWith Tampa’s hot and humid weather, you want to get a drought-tolerant lawn so you don’t have to spend so much time watering the grass. Bermuadagrass consumes the least amount of water. Other good options are bahiagrass, buffalograss, and centipedegrass.
Warm-season grasses that can tolerate a lot of foot traffic, are disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant are the most hardy types of grasses. Low-maintenance grasses that are perfectly suited for Tampa’s climate include:
• Bahiagrass
• Buffalograss
• Centipedegrass
• Zoysiagrass
One of the cheapest and simplest ways to save time on landscaping maintenance is to use mulch in your landscaping. Organic mulches are inexpensive, great for the environment, and often the materials can be found around your own yard.
Here are some ways you can make your own mulch:
• Compost. If you have a compost bin, use that compost as mulch for your plant bed.
• Grass clippings. If your lawnmower has a bag, then simply use the grass clippings in the bag for mulch. Otherwise, after you mow the lawn, rake up the grass clippings across your lawn and use them for mulch.
• Leaves. Rake up leaves in a pile and then run your lawnmower over the leaves several times to chop them up into mulch.
• Pine needles. Pine needles can be chopped up in a wood chipper to make mulch. They are often combined with homemade wood mulch to make them extra effective.
• Tree branches. Fallen or pruned branches from your tree can be used as mulch. Put the tree branches and sticks through a wood chipper to chop them up into mulch. If you don’t have a wood chipper, you can rent one.
Try mixing grass clippings with wood chips to create an effective mulch that is full of nutrients for your flower bed.
If you’re tired of maintaining your landscaping, it’s time to redesign your Tampa yard. You can have an elegant landscape that is the envy of the neighborhood without all the effort of caring for a traditional lawn. To free up your time, hire a local pro to take care of the trimming, watering, and mowing for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Robles House in Tampa, FL / Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Tampa, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/1789c/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/107df/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 320w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/293e9/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 500w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/f2cbb/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 800w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/1789c/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 960w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/c26c2/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/1dd6e/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/67b76/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 320w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/8df11/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 500w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/98a65/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 800w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/1dd6e/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 960w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/3cc96/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Tampa, FL","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"If you want you and your landscape to stand up to Tampa’s hot and humid weather, try these low-maintenance landscaping ideas to minimize yard work."}}},{"node":{"id":"810b8629-f990-5547-a07b-80882ba78242","slug":"worst-backyard-pests-in-richmond-va-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/richmond/worst-backyard-pests-in-richmond-va-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"08edb056-11a9-55f1-a92d-6400a6e86bbc","name":"Richmond","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/richmond/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2019","excerpt":"Many critters can compromise your lawn, but some are more insidious than others. The following is a guide to the worst backyard pests in Richmond, Va., and how to manage them.
\n","content":"\nRichmond is blessed with mild winters and four mellow seasons that make enjoying the outdoors possible for most of the year. Of course, the lack of hard freezes and the green environment are an open invitation to all backyard pests. Many critters can compromise your lawn, but some are more insidious than others. The following is a guide to the worst backyard pests in Richmond and how to manage them.
\n\n\n\nTrue to their name, these pests will feed in large numbers on all varieties of turf, moving in waves like an army, under cover of night. These caterpillars are most prevalent after a cool, wet spring when gray moths lay their eggs after the sun goes down. Resist the urge to apply chemical pesticides right away: your first line of defense is natural predators. A pheromone trap can track the arrival of moths, at which point you should begin inspecting your grass for signs of eggs and worms. Releasing beneficial nematodes can help to control any outbreaks. Applying BT (a natural caterpillar control) to the lawn will also help nip any infestation in the bud.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wsyWaNxHqYBeUaAbl5kz5co7zu7cbOq7EMc-Vl81_F8sFtovjYES3DWdUQhHINjkZNwuLhI19kgLJDnKYC9j9vwNzmSE7Cdu2tsvTrgfbtpHsm5mwk9-J84fZ8jK9oK-zRKLqcVK\")
An accidental import from South America, fire ants know how to put an end to relaxing times in the yard. They’ll bite and sting anything that imposes on their mounds. Their colonies damage yards and wreak havoc on ecosystems. Combatting fire ants is a pastime for many Southerners, but if you control them early, you can avoid making a lifestyle out of ant control. The two-step method is the most effective approach to ridding your lawn of this horrendous pest. You start by spreading a bait insecticide over your entire yard in the fall. You then treat the individual mounds with a granule or dust insecticide.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs are the bane of Kentucky bluegrass, bentgrass, Bermudagrass, perennial ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass. They feed on all these grass types. They’re among the worst backyard pests in Richmond in hot, dry areas with a thick layer of thatch. Patches of grass will turn yellow and then brown in the heat of the sun. The best defense against chinch bugs? A healthy lawn, mowed to the recommended height, aerated, and properly watered and fertilized. You can treat small infestations with insecticidal soap, but larger issues need a dose of an organic or chemical insecticide.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/63LB03uylyiw_BQsJ0lzp5C52d9EuOdMwiHBuMuipusNI3JAhX0ojs9Ve27P3FFNnmzGJP4YPMvAjhj43XorQNAmYJBR9PpTBsmVJW4ROcYrH5PkqvPxNRvoQuLCC1ryKz9lEzfq\")
When brown spots begin to appear on an otherwise healthy lawn, it’s time to start looking for grubs. To diagnose a grub issue, find a piece of affected turf and try to lift it up. If it rolls up easily and lacks roots, then you know grubs are to blame. If you prefer taking a nontoxic approach to lawn care, you can use milky spore, nematodes, or insecticidal soap to kill the grubs in the soil. If your lawn is healthy, grubs will be less able to find purchase and take root. Start looking for the grubs in the spring, before they have time to multiply. Mow consistently and make sure you irrigate the right amount.
\n\n\n\nIf you find you have any of these pests invading your lawn, early detection is the best road to successfully wiping them out. Once an infestation is going full-bore, it’s much harder to get the upper hand. So, pay close attention to your turf and keep your Richmond yard healthy to stay a step ahead in the pest prevention game.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about lawn care and landscaping? Visit our Richmond, Va., lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
We Texans like to say, “If you don’t like the weather, stick around a minute” because it changes so rapidly. These wild fluctuations – cold to hot, rainy to scorching, windy to still – and the varied climates of this massive state, can wreak havoc on grass and plants. So before you invest in expensive […]
\n","content":"\nWe Texans like to say, “If you don’t like the weather, stick around a minute” because it changes so rapidly. These wild fluctuations – cold to hot, rainy to scorching, windy to still – and the varied climates of this massive state, can wreak havoc on grass and plants. So before you invest in expensive landscaping, it’s critical to know which grasses grow best in Texas.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nTexas is so big that its climate varies from place to place. For example, West Texas and North Texas are drier and cooler than South Texas and the coastal areas. As you might expect, then, certain grass types grow better in some regions than others. For instance, buffalograss grows best in areas that get 25 inches of rainfall or less (annually), while centipedegrass loves East Texas’ intense humidity.
\n\n\n\nThat doesn’t mean you can’t grow buffalograss in coastal Texas and centipedegrass in West Texas, but you will probably have to work harder at it. So keep those differences in mind as we make our way through the strengths and weaknesses of each type of grass.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you plan on using your lawn for recreation and entertaining, give some thought to Zoysiagrass because it tolerates foot traffic well. Be aware, though, that if it gets damaged, it can take a while to recover because it grows slowly.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass tolerates drought extremely well, and it bounces back rapidly from drought with some irrigation or rainfall.
\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
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Mow about once a week
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\n![\"Bubble](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bubble-on-St.-Augustine-grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Morgan / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKnown as “carpet grass” for the carpet-like feeling beneath your feet, St. Augustinegrass is most commonly seen in Southeast Texas (although it’s grown in most of the state). It’s the most shade-tolerant of the warm-season grasses, but while it handles drought well, it isn’t as drought-tolerant as Bermudagrass or Zoysiagrass.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass doesn’t like heavy foot traffic so don’t let the kids or pets run wild in the yard.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBermudagrass’ strongest traits are its high traffic tolerance and quick recovery. This makes it popular for golf courses, lawns, and athletic fields. It’s also quite drought-tolerant and loves full sunlight.
\n\n\n\nThere are many seeded varieties of Bermudagrass, some of which have finer textures and create a denser turf than standard Bermudagrass. Bermudagrass also comes in hybrid varieties (a mix of common and African varieties), which are more aggressive than regular Bermudagrass varieties.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Both stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Centipedegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar JamesBecwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is best adapted to East Texas’ acidic soils. It’s best known for its low-maintenance requirements: It doesn’t need a lot of irrigation, fertilization, or mowing. It grows well in moderate shade but thrives in full sunlight, but it doesn’t like heavy foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is used primarily for parks, golf courses, lawns, and other turf areas, but not athletic fields.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolon
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 1.5 to 2 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate
\n\n\n\n![\"California](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/UC-Verde-Buffalograss-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Susan Harris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLocated in Central and West Texas, buffalograss likes heavy clay soils in areas with little rainfall. (In other areas, it has to contend with weeds and other invasive grasses). It thrives in full sun but doesn’t like heavy shade or foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss works well in many areas, such as school grounds, golf courses, parks, and roadsides.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizome
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Very Low
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: 2 – 3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Low
\n\n\n\nBuffalograss, centipedegrass, and Zoysiagrass are your best choices for a lawn that doesn’t require much maintenance.
St. Augustinegrass is the way to go if your lawn gets a lot of shade.
Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass are the preferred choices if you plan on having people in the yard frequently.
There isn’t a single type of grass that fits every Texas lawn. Choosing the right grass depends on where you live.
\n\n\n\nOnce you get your grass picked out, complement it with low-maintenance landscaping that makes your yard come alive but without a bunch of effort and money.
\n\n\n\nWhere do you start? Contact one of Wikilawn’s lawn care professionals, and they’ll give you all the help you need.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Texas Discovery Gardens / Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"Best Grasses for a Great Texas Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/1789c/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg","srcSet":"/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/107df/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 320w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/293e9/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 500w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/f2cbb/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 800w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/1789c/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 960w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/c26c2/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/1dd6e/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/67b76/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 320w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/8df11/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 500w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/98a65/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 800w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/1dd6e/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 960w,\n/static/be031144a6edd0e5dd399b3ae8783dd7/3cc96/Texas-Discovery-Gardens.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Grass For a Great Texas Lawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Texas is such a big state that some grasses thrive in areas that others don’t. Learn more about the best grasses for your Texas lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"3b008ef6-4054-5eca-bac5-192a19ae962b","slug":"the-worst-bugs-in-austin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/the-worst-bugs-in-austin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 18th, 2019","excerpt":"Living in a lush city with mild winters feels like heaven… until the armies of pests begin to congregate in yards, on patios, and around pools, waiting for their chance to ruin your day. The creepy crawly, not to mention bitey and stingy contingent of this corner of the world can’t help it. They’re thirsty […]
\n","content":"\nLiving in a lush city with mild winters feels like heaven… until the armies of pests begin to congregate in yards, on patios, and around pools, waiting for their chance to ruin your day. The creepy crawly, not to mention bitey and stingy contingent of this corner of the world can’t help it. They’re thirsty for water, blood, or just trying to defend their turf (even if it happens to be yours), and they need to go. Here’s a quick guide to the worst bugs in Austin and how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nAnyone who’s ever wandered into fire ant territory in sandals can tell you they’re the worst pest in Texas. And that’s a tall order in a state crawling with venomous critters. Fire ants top this list because of their aggression and their uncanny ability to show up en mass where you don’t want them. Picnic? You can count on these invasive ants to be there. Veggie garden? Check! Kitchen counter courtesy of any gap in a window or door? You betcha!
\n\n\n\nGetting rid of fire ants is a process. So take a deep breath and start early in the spring, as soon as you see them building their mounds. The “two-step method” involves baiting the ant mounds between August and September. Next, after a few weeks have passed, the individual mounds are spot-treated. Baiting mounds isn’t a good idea for families with young children. In that case, a non-toxic method such as orange oil or boiling water applied to mounds may be preferable.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/lLCUlMvzdzrz-l86U0KVD-wCIhPeDvLw5jKUfC8G_bTnPh_VA9K1tUTxIr39ew_m548d9xWQtqzzs2rjvw9yoZ3Gv_u3DWhdwK7ihiPWtnBOECQIeZSa2rFi1RNzL6QBaQ1KSW8G\")
Known as water roaches, tree roaches, or just terrifying monsters that need to get out of the house, palmetto bugs are harmless, but hated insects. These most unwelcome visitors are drawn by food, water, and places they can easily hide. If you have a palmetto bug issue, your first plan of action must be to determine where they’re’ coming from. If you have a compost pile close to your home, this is a likely source. Wood piles and mounds of leaves are likely hangout spots as well.
\n\n\n\nEliminating any cozy places where wood or leaves are decomposing will help give these guys the boot. If they’re coming into your house, identify and seal any gaps or cracks where they’re entering. Try sprinkling boric acid around sills where you suspect they’re lurking.
\n\n\n\nThese bloodsuckers are a stealthy menace, quietly biting us at dusk– when we’re the least likely to see them. Mosquitoes are both annoying and dangerous carriers for tropical diseases. We do have a number of methods for deterring them, beginning with preventing them from breeding in the first place.
\n\n\n\nMake sure there are no containers of standing water anywhere near your home (our friends in Florida know all about this tip). This includes changing the water in bird baths, fountains, and potted plant trays each week. Rain barrels should have screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering and laying eggs. Place an agitator in all water features. Mosquitoes will only lay eggs in still water.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKeep shrubs trimmed and tidy. Plant basil, marigolds, petunias and lavender to repel the pests. The scent of these flowers really bugs mosquitoes. Installing an outdoor fan can keep mosquitoes from crashing your parties as well. Wearing light-colored clothing and avoiding the outdoors during dawn and dusk are also good ways to avoid their bites.
\n\n\n\nThe mild climate around Austin and Round Rock is just as attractive to these nasty pests as it is to us. In addition to all of the tips above, maintaining a tidy lawn and landscape is one of the best ways to repel the worst bugs in Austin.
\n\n\n\nHave more questions about pest control and prevention in your lawn? Visit our Austin, TX lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
\n","title":"The Worst Bugs in Austin and How to Get Rid of them","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.16580310880829,"src":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/5d440/fireants.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/107df/fireants.jpg 320w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/293e9/fireants.jpg 500w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/f2cbb/fireants.jpg 800w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/5d440/fireants.jpg 900w","srcWebp":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/e342a/fireants.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/67b76/fireants.webp 320w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/8df11/fireants.webp 500w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/98a65/fireants.webp 800w,\n/static/9a100da3f4bc295f45e53afe04a1c712/e342a/fireants.webp 900w","sizes":"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Worst Bugs in Austin and How to Get Rid of them | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Are the bugs really bugging you this summer? Take a look at this list of the worst bugs in Austin and how to get rid of them."}}},{"node":{"id":"bd885ece-a3cc-57ad-8b75-dc3c228d7da9","slug":"best-grass-types-new-york","path":"/lawn-care/ny/best-grass-types-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 8th, 2023","excerpt":"One of the great things about New York is its natural diversity and distinct seasons. But all that diversity has a price: Not all grasses thrive in conditions that swing from hot and humid to cold and icy. So if a beautiful lawn is a must-have, it pays to know what kinds of grasses do […]
\n","content":"\nOne of the great things about New York is its natural diversity and distinct seasons. But all that diversity has a price: Not all grasses thrive in conditions that swing from hot and humid to cold and icy.
\n\n\n\nSo if a beautiful lawn is a must-have, it pays to know what kinds of grasses do well in our unique climate. Here are four grasses that not only survive but thrive in New York.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThere are two types of grasses.
\n\n\n\nNew York enjoys warm to hot summers and cold winters. The difference is even more pronounced in upstate New York, where regions bordering the Great Lakes experience brutally cold, ridiculously snowy winters. Downstate sees warmer summers with higher humidity levels, but the winters are cold and wet.
\n\n\n\nOverall, cool-season grasses are best suited to New York’s climate because they tolerate cold well, and the heat isn’t sustained or intense enough to do any real harm.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a closer look at each kind:
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fine-Fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nFine fescue looks beautiful with its medium green thin grass blades. It tolerates shade and can grow in sunny conditions, too. Fine fescue requires minimal watering.
\n\n\n\nFine fescue has a soft texture. However, it can’t tolerate high foot traffic. Fine fescue requires low maintenance but is highly susceptible to red thread and other diseases.
\n\n\n\nWe recommend mixing fine fescue with other cool-season grasses for the best results. New York homeowners usually mix fine fescue with Kentucky bluegrass at a 50:50 or 50:25 ratios.
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3863142192_bea9f90f09_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nTall fescue has a deep root system, so it tolerates shade and drought. The leaves are dark green in color, with a coarse appearance. You can combine tall fescue with other cool-season grasses for a better lawn appearance.
\n\n\n\nOn the down side, if you plan to use your lawn heavily, avoid tall fescue. It can handle normal yard usage but doesn’t tolerate heavy foot traffic. On the up side, tall fescue resists diseases pretty well but requires frequent mowing and fertilization.
\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\nKentucky bluegrass looks beautiful with its soft-textured, fine grass blades. It forms a dense, medium- to dark-green lawn. Kentucky bluegrass grows best in full sun and is suitable for yards with high foot traffic. It also recovers quickly from damage.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass requires high maintenance and is susceptible to many diseases, so, it’s a good option only if you mix it with other cool-season grasses. You can use a grass blend of 75% Kentucky bluegrass and 25% fine fescue or perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_1perennial_rygrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass germinates in five to fourteen days, making it one of the fastest-growing grasses. It looks beautiful with its dense, dark green leaves. Perennial ryegrass grows best in full sun and with regular watering.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass tolerates high-foot traffic but can’t quickly recover from damages as it lacks rhizomes. It’s susceptible to gray leaf spot and leaf thread. You can mix perennial ryegrass with Kentucky bluegrass at a 75:25 ratio for the best results.
\n\n\n\nIf your lawn is shady, go with fine fescue. Tall fescue also tolerates shade and survives with four hours of dappled sun.
Fine fescue does well in dry conditions.
If you plan to use your lawn heavily, go with Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass.
Fine fescue is the best option for a low-maintenance lawn.
Grass Comparison Table
\n\n\n\n| Cool-Season Grasses | Spreads By | Shade Tolerance | Drought Tolerance | Maintenance Needs |
| Fine fescue | Bunch-type | High | High | Low |
| Tall fescue | Bunch-type | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Kentucky bluegrass | Rhizomes | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
| Perennial ryegrass | Bunch-type | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
Cool-season grasses can quickly adapt to New York’s climate. Analyze your lawn’s condition and choose a grass type that best suits your requirements.
\n\n\n\nA good lawn isn’t all about planting the correct grass. It also includes choosing the best native plants and proper maintenance. For a closer look at how to get your lawn in tip-top shape for the warm-weather months, see this Wikilawn guide to spring lawn care in New York.
\n\n\n\nIf you want a lush, green, and healthy lawn without breaking a sweat, Wikilawn New York lawn care experts can help.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Pixabay
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for New York Lawns","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/1789c/Lawn-in-New-York-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/107df/Lawn-in-New-York-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/293e9/Lawn-in-New-York-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/f2cbb/Lawn-in-New-York-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/1789c/Lawn-in-New-York-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/c26c2/Lawn-in-New-York-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/1dd6e/Lawn-in-New-York-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/67b76/Lawn-in-New-York-1.webp 320w,\n/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/8df11/Lawn-in-New-York-1.webp 500w,\n/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/98a65/Lawn-in-New-York-1.webp 800w,\n/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/1dd6e/Lawn-in-New-York-1.webp 960w,\n/static/ab553b1ebe5a16e3499d034ceded9e2c/3cc96/Lawn-in-New-York-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for New York Lawns | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"A lush, green, and healthy lawn starts with choosing the correct grass. Let's take a look at the best grass types for New York."}}},{"node":{"id":"43e7c0da-3068-5b54-a08d-5c74304ade47","slug":"firewise-landscaping-utah","path":"/lawn-care/ut/firewise-landscaping-utah/","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":"65f3de7c-13d9-573a-b422-7e8ea533aaa7","name":"Utah","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ut/"}],"date":"May 15th, 2023","excerpt":"Wildfires love dry weather, which is why Utah, with its arid climate, is highly prone to wildfire. In fact, it’s among the most dangerous states for wildfires in the U.S. But you can minimize the damage by adopting these fire-wise landscaping ideas for your Utah home. In this article: 1. Prepare Your Defensible Space Photo […]
\n","content":"\nWildfires love dry weather, which is why Utah, with its arid climate, is highly prone to wildfire. In fact, it’s among the most dangerous states for wildfires in the U.S. But you can minimize the damage by adopting these fire-wise landscaping ideas for your Utah home.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Farmer](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Getting-rid-of-the-dead-wood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pauline Eccles / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDefensible space is the buffer between your home and the vegetation around it. By keeping this area clear of flammable vegetation and objects, you rob the fire of the fuel it needs to maintain its destructive march.
\n\n\n\nIf your home doesn’t have a defensible space, it most likely won’t survive the fire, and the flames may spread quickly to your neighbor’s property as well. The secondary benefits of defensible space is that it can create a safe zone for firefighters to battle a blaze without endangering their lives.
\n\n\n\nAn effective defensible space consists of three zones:
\n\n\n\nZone 1 (Immediate Zone)
\n\n\n\nZone 1 extends up to 5 feet from your home. If you live on a hill, increase the distance by 5 feet or more because fire travels faster uphill.
\n\n\n\nHere is how to prepare this zone.
\n\n\n\nZone 2 (Intermediate Zone)
\n\n\n\nZone 2 begins where the first zone ends. It extends from 6 feet up to 30 feet. Here are some guidelines for this zone.
\n\n\n\nZone 3 (Extended Zone)
\n\n\n\nZone 3 extends from 31 feet up to 100 feet or the property line. Here are the guidelines for this zone.
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Metal-Gazebo.jpg\")
Photo Credit: GAlexandrova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWooden fences and gazebos look great, and many homeowners across the U.S. prefer them. But they are highly flammable and can quickly spread fire. So, wood shouldn’t be your first choice in Utah.
\n\n\n\nMetal and stone structures are a fire-resistant alternative to wood. They look great, are more durable, and require less maintenance.
\n\n\n\n![\"Silvery](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Silvery-Yarrow.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PicturElements / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe term “fire-resistant plants” is a bit of a misnomer. All plants will burn when exposed to fire. However, fire-resistant plants won’t ignite as violently.
\n\n\n\nA fire-resistant plant:
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the most fire-resistant plants for Utah.
\n\n\n\nHere are some tips for growing fire-resistant plants correctly.
\n\n\n\nNote: If you live on a hill, leave more space between plants as fire travels faster uphill.
\n\n\n\n| Slope Size | Tree Distance | Shrub Distance |
| Mild slope (less than 20%) | 10 feet | 2 times the shrub’s height |
| Moderate slope (20% to 40%) | 20 feet | 4 times the shrub’s height |
| Steep slope (greater than 40%) | 30 feet | 6 times the shrub’s height |
![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/gravel-mulch-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Sten Porse / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMulch helps plants conserve water. It can also reduce weed growth. Weeds are highly flammable and can spread fire. But choosing the wrong mulch – meaning mulch that is highly flammable – actually aids the spread of fire.
\n\n\n\nInorganic mulches like gravel, pebbles, and river rocks have great fire resistance. These mulches also look good and require little maintenance.
\n\n\n\nIf you prefer organic mulches, we recommend wood chips as they are the least flammable, according to a study by the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension. That study indicates that composted wood chips are the least flammable mulches.
\n\n\n\nHere are some mulches to avoid, as they are combustible.
\n\n\n\n![\"Our](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_concrete_retaining_wall_in_walnut_creek_ca_built_by_retaining_wall_experts.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Easterday / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardscapes are man-made features added to a landscape design. They increase the appearance of your lawn and can also slow the spread of fire. Hardscapes include:
\n\n\n\nUse bricks, concrete, and metal for your hardscapes, but not wood. Here’s how hardscapes can help minimize fire spread.
\n\n\n\nUtah is hot, and it’s the second driest state in the U.S., making it highly prone to wildfires.
\n\n\n\nIt’s impossible to prevent wildfires from erupting, but you can minimize the damage by creating a defensible space, using metal structures, growing fire-resistant plants, applying fire-resistant mulch, and building hardscapes.
\n\n\n\nWildfires spread rapidly, and a single fire-resistant landscape can’t slow the spread. If you live in a community, involve your neighbors and encourage them to create a fire-resistant landscape too.
\n\n\n\nIf you want some help creating your lawn fire-resistant, Wikilawn Utah lawn care experts can help. We can also help you with regular lawn maintenance.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Devereaux House / Ken Lund / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"5 Fire-wise Landscaping Ideas for Utah","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/1789c/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg","srcSet":"/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/107df/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg 320w,\n/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/293e9/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg 500w,\n/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/f2cbb/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg 800w,\n/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/1789c/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg 960w,\n/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/c26c2/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/1dd6e/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/67b76/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.webp 320w,\n/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/8df11/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.webp 500w,\n/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/98a65/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.webp 800w,\n/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/1dd6e/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.webp 960w,\n/static/265f487891c8ff4d0e68a53dfdaadc88/3cc96/Devereaux-House-Salt-Lake-City-Utah.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Firewise Landscaping Ideas for Utah","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Utah's desert climate is highly prone to wildfire, but you can protect your home with a good firewise strategy that includes fire-resistant landscaping"}}},{"node":{"id":"af375aac-f430-5777-81fa-9c837b472add","slug":"best-native-plants-austin","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/best-native-plants-austin/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Nicki DeStasi is a writer, author, and teacher who grew up in western Massachusetts and currently resides in the Austin area. She enjoys flower and vegetable gardening, reading, cooking, listening to true-crime podcasts, and spending time with her husband, two children, dog, and cat.","name":"Nicki DeStasi","id":"ffbf62e2-d627-5a5f-a041-4eaa9ac66924","path":"/author/nicki-destasi/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9846092d7afb2db8d0a4daa2454074f0?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":"March 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Austinites keep it weird with our local celebrities, our infamous murals, and our love of nature. One way we show our love of nature is by growing flowers, shrubs, and trees native to the area. If you need ideas, we have 15 of the best native plants that are perfect for your Austin landscape. But […]
\n","content":"\nAustinites keep it weird with our local celebrities, our infamous murals, and our love of nature. One way we show our love of nature is by growing flowers, shrubs, and trees native to the area. If you need ideas, we have 15 of the best native plants that are perfect for your Austin landscape.
\n\n\n\nBut why should you choose native plants for your landscape? Here are a few of the benefits:
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/49643314492_80a78d3d2a_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: jimduggan24 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe blue mistflower is an eye-catching wildflower famous for its bluish-purple fuzzy flowers. The nectar-producing blooms grow in a nearly-flat cluster at the top of the plant. The bright blooms attract bees and butterflies and stand out against the dark-green leaves. You can check them out at Zilker’s Botanical Garden.
\n\n\n\nUniquely beautiful, the blue mistflower blooms in late summer and fall. In the wild, they’re often found in stream banks, wet meadows, and ditches. For landscaping, they’re perfect for borders, groundcover, and rain gardens. Usually sown from seeds, the blue mistflower is fast growing and needs to be trimmed and pruned to prevent it from crowding out your other plants.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness zones: 5-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist loam, sand, or clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; invasive if left unchecked; attracts bees
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14897851758_fcb78dab1d_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Marmot / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe desert willow resembles a willow but isn’t actually part of the willow family, it’s a member of the bignonia family. With a slew of sweet-smelling pink, white, or purple flowers, butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees flock to the desert willow’s nectar-rich blooms. This small, fast-growing ornamental tree is drought resistant and excellent for erosion control. It also makes a great focal point for any yard.
\n\n\n\nThe desert willow requires minimal trimming and is known as a set-it-and-forget-it tree. However, it can be pruned into a large shrub if that’s the aesthetic you’re looking for. Desert willow is popular for xeriscaping or limestone-heavy soil because of its low water needs. You can see them in bloom at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in late spring, summer, and early fall.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 40 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained limestone soils are preferred, but also does well in sands, loams, clays, caliches, granitic, and rocky soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low; water occasionally if no rain after 30 days
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; susceptible to Alterneria leaf spot; attracts wildlife and bees
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/35674161932_8884b13f68_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Earl McGehee / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe flame acanthus is a Texas native with many nicknames, including Hummingbird Bush, Texas Firecracker Plant, Mexican Flame, and more. As one of its nicknames suggests, hummingbirPds love the nectar that flows from the reddish-orange, tubular flowers. It also attracts bees and birds but is deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nPreferring full sun and low moisture, the flame acanthus is an ideal choice for xeriscaping, perennial gardens, and patio pots. Shockingly, this plant can live for more than 30 years. While you will need to control the shrub’s growth, it only requires trimming after the flowers bloom.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-5 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Adaptable to many soils but prefers well-drained sand, loam, clay, caliche, limestone
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; reseeds profusely; attracts bees
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flameleaf-Sumac.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mike Tilley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nAlso called the Texan sumac and the prairie flameleaf sumac, the flameleaf sumac puts on a fiery show of fire-engine-red leaves in the fall, hence the name. This native shrub is also eye-catching in bloom with its tiny white flowers. The red berries that follow the blooms can be steeped for a tasty tea rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
\n\n\n\nThis tree is not a skin irritant, unlike the similar-sounding, rash-inducing poison sumac. Flameleaf sumac is also a haven for many species, like birds, bees, and small animals. It’s also highly resistant to both pests and diseases, except Verticillium wilt, a fungal disease. This ornamental beauty is a showstopper in any Austin yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 6-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Usually 12-15 feet, but can grow up to 30 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rocky, calcareous, well-drained limestone soils, including clays, loams, and sands.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low-medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; potential to be invasive because it seeds itself; susceptible to Verticillium wilt
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Penstemon_triflorus_flowers.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Stan Shebs / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nSometimes called the Hill Country beardtongue or the scarlet beardtongue, the Hill Country penstemon is an Edwards Plateau native. The vibrant pink or red tube-shaped flowers stand out against the dark green oval leaves. The hairy stamen gives the showy flower the nickname “beardtongue.” This ornamental plant is perfect for perennial gardens and cut flowers.
\n\n\n\nDuring its growing season, this nectar-rich plant attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and deer. While the Hill Country penstemon is relatively short, the flowers are big in comparison, about 2 inches long. You can see the flowers in bloom in spring and early summer at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 2 feet tall; 1.5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, limestone-based soils: sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low; water if 3 to 4 weeks without rain
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; susceptible to brown spot; attracts deer and bees
\n\n\n\n![\"leaves](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pxfuel.com-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nNative to central Texas, lacey oak trees are found in many Austin area landscapes. They’re named after Howard Lacey, who first collected specimens on his property about two hours west of Austin. The rounded-toothed leaves are peach-colored in spring and fall. In the summer, they take on a smokey grayish-green color. Lacey oaks produce yellow flowers that turn into acorns.
\n\n\n\nBecause lacey oak is resistant to wilt, they’re often preferred over live oak and red oak. The medium-sized tree is an excellent food source and shelter for small mammals and birds. Fun fact: The largest known lacey oak grows just next door in Blanco County. It stands just under 60 feet tall, and the trunk is just over 3 feet in diameter. Wow!
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 60 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, limestone or rocky soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; attracts deer; susceptible to oak phylloxera insects
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Oenothera_macrocarpa_kz06-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nDespite its name, Missouri primrose is native to the entire south-central United States, including Texas. Even though it has bright yellow elongated flowers, it’s primarily nocturnal, meaning it blooms at night and closes in the day. The Missouri evening primrose is a nectar source that mostly attracts hawk moths but also native bees and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nThe showy plant grows easily from seed or stem cuttings. Considered a trailing plant, the Missouri evening primrose is often grown in poor soil gardens, rock gardens, or containers. Remove dead blooms and cut back damaged leaves to promote healthy growth. You can check out these stunning, large, four-petaled blooms at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 3-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8-10 inches
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, rocky, gravelly, or sandy soils: calcareous, sandy, limestone-based, sandy Loam, medium Loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; susceptible to root rot
\n\n\n\n![\"cluster](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/rsz_4596500345_9f38e0a8fa_c.jpg\")
Native to south-central United States and Central America, prairie verbena is found in grassy areas, along roadsides, trails, and landscapes all over Texas, including Austin. In fact, they’re on display at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Austin chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center.
\n\n\n\nAlso called “moradilla,” Spanish for “little purple one,” this beautiful plant puts on a show with clusters of violet, purple, or pink flowers against dark green, unusual-shaped leaves (like large, elongated parsley leaves). This long-blooming (March through October), nectar-producing flower attracts butterflies and birds with its sweet fragrance but is deer resistant. The creeping prairie verbena provides superb groundcover in most gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 16 inches tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained sand, loam, clay, caliche, and limestone
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low-medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; susceptible to Powdery Mildew
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rose-flower-nature-garden-flowering-plant-petal-1607880-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nNative to the Edwards Plateau through the Rio Grande and into Mexico, the rock rose is a popular choice for Austin landscapes and perennial gardens due to its high heat tolerance and beautiful blooms. The showy, paper-thin, pink or yellow flowers contrast exquisitely with the coarsely toothed, dark green leaves. To see it up close, take a stroll through Zilker’s Botanical Gardens.
\n\n\n\nRock rose is an easily grown shrub that needs to be cut back before winter to encourage bushy, compact growth. The nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds, nectar moths, and butterflies. The flowers only bloom for a short time before falling off to make room for the next one, but the flowers bloom spring, summer, and fall. Surprisingly, the rock rose fragrance is more prominent in the foliage than the bloom.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-13
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers dry, well-drained, rocky or limestone soils: caliche, sandy, clay, and loam (sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam)
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; susceptible to mildew and gray mold (also known as botrytis blight)
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/18658601076_734cc969bc_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: F. D. Richards / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe roughleaf dogwood is an adaptable tree native to the central United States west of the Mississippi and Ontario but now flourishes amid the eastern U.S. too. The large clusters of creamy white flowers turn into bunches of fleshy white berries in late fall. The roughleaf dogwood gets its name from the hairy upper part of its oval leaf.
\n\n\n\nThe roughleaf dogwood blooms attract nectar insects like butterflies and native bees. Small birds feast on the berries while nesting amongst the branches. The tree’s also great for erosion control. While the roughleaf dogwood grows throughout Austin landscapes, it’s also featured at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, alkaline soils. Limestone-based, sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay, acid-based, calcareous
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; susceptible to several pests and diseases, but they don’t typically affect the tree’s growth
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hesperaloe_parviflora_Ponteilla.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sylenius / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nAlso called the hummingbird yucca or the false yucca, the Texas red yucca isn’t actually part of the yucca family. It does resemble a yucca with its long, thin, grasslike leaves and tall wand-like flower stems, but it’s classified as a succulent. Native to Texas and Northern Mexico, the Texas red yucca is heat, cold, and drought tolerant.
\n\n\n\nHummingbirds love the coral, yellow, or red flowers, but so do deer. The dark, olive-green leaves stay green all year, while the flowers bloom from February to July. This evergreen plant is ideal for rock gardens or xeriscaping but thrives in most well-draining soils. If you want to see this beautiful plant firsthand, check it out at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Succulent
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 5-10
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Succulent
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-5 feet tall; 2-4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, well-drained sand, loam, caliche, limestone.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Very low; no water once established, but occasional watering might be needed if no rainfall after 30 days
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Raw plant is toxic to humans and dogs, but cooked Texas Red Yucca is edible.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Leucophyllum_frutescens_Purple_Sage_W_IMG_1125.jpg\")
Photo Credit: J.M. Garg / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nNative to Texas and Northern Mexico, the Texas sage has several nicknames, including Barometer Bush and Texas Silverleaf. This beautiful shrub gets the “silver” part of its nickname from its leaves that are densely covered in stellate (silvery hairs). Use it in rock gardens or as a hedge.
\n\n\n\nThe Texas sage leaves give the shrub a gray-silvery appearance, which enhances the white, pink, purple, or violet blooms. The year-round blooming flowers are about an inch wide and almost bell-shaped. The flowers bloom in periods of rain or high humidity, hence the nickname “Barometer Bush.” The nectar-producing blooms attract butterflies to your yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: Usually 2-5 feet, but can grow up to 10 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, well-drained, rocky or limestone-based soils
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to very low; water if 3-4 weeks without rain
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; susceptible to Cotton Root Rot
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Wisteria_frutescens_Amethyst_Falls_3zz-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nAlso called the American wisteria, the Texas wisteria is native to the entire eastern half and south-central United States, including Texas. This woody, climbing vine usually produces long clusters (6-8 inches) of purple flowers in early summer. The flowers can also be pink, blue, or white. The flowers turn into large pea pods that are not edible, so keep pets away.
\n\n\n\nThe fragrant flowers produce nectar and attract butterflies and moths. While not as aggressive as the Asian cousin, Texas wisteria can crowd out other plants and is best grown on an arbor or trellis. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center proudly displays Texas Wisteria as part of its collection.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flowering vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: 25-30 feet tall; 3-6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade, shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist to mesic, neutral to slightly acidic soils: sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, and clay
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium; if there is no rainfall, water every 2-3 weeks
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to pets and humans, except flowers are edible
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Callirhoe_involucrata_20107857120.jpg\")
Photo Credit: peganum / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe winecup flower is prevalent throughout most of the United States and is one of the most common wild herbs in Texas. Its purple, white, or pink flowers bloom in spring and early summer. The winecup flower is used as a flower bed cover, in hanging baskets, or draping over a wall.
\n\n\n\nThe nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and deer. The plant’s roots can be used for medicinal purposes, including for head colds and pain. The chalice-shaped flower blooms most of the year except when it goes dormant in late summer. You can see this plant throughout Austin fields, landscapes, and at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 4-8
\n\n\n\nMature size: 8-12 inches tall spreading to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen, semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, calcareous, acid-based, rocky, gravelly and sandy soils: clay, clay loam, medium loam, sandy loam
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; susceptible to pests or diseases if the soil is too wet when it may contract root or crown rot
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/iStock-1464390827-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Istock
\n\n\n\nNative to Texas and Oklahoma, Wright’s purple skullcap is also called shrubby skullcap or bushy skullcap. Named after the famous botanist Charles Wright, Wright’s purple skullcap is a popular choice for Austin landscape due to its drought and heat resistance. The small, violet, cone-shaped, nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nWright’s purple skullcap blooms in spring and summer, attracting deer. If you want to check out this lovely, hardy shrub, you can see it on display throughout Texas, including Texas Discovery Garden in Dallas, Jacob’s Well Natural Area in Wimberly, and right here in Austin at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-10 inches
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained sand, loam, chalk, limestone
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic; highly pest resistant; susceptible to rot if the soil is too wet
\n\n\n\nAnyone who lives in Austin knows that our city is much different than the rest of the state. Texas has seven geographical regions, so not all Texas-native plants are good choices for Austin.
\n\n\n\nJust because a plant is an Austin native doesn’t mean it will do well in your landscape. Make sure the plant you choose is compatible with your yard’s microclimate, such as soil type and sun exposure.
\n\n\n\nAustin’s soil consists of three ecoregions, each with different soil types: the Edwards Plateau, the Blackland Prairies, and the Post Oak Savannah Floodplains.
\n\n\n\nEdwards Plateau
\n\n\n\nBlackland Prairie
\n\n\n\nPost Oak Savannah Floodplains
\n\n\n\nLook into which soil type is found in your yard to help you determine the best plants for your landscape. While researching, discover excellent low-maintenance landscape ideas and the best grass types for your Austin lawn.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re planting in spring, plant between Jan. 15 and March 1. If you’re planting in the fall, start between Oct. 1 and Dec. 1. These ranges come from the Texas DOT and USDA plant hardiness zones. Austin’s plant hardiness zones are 8a-8b. Austin falls right on the line between those two zones. The hardiness zones help gardeners and landscapers determine what plants will thrive in a certain area based on winter low temperatures. In Austin, albeit rare, the temperature can be as low as 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why Austin falls in the 8a-8b zones.
Austin has tons of native plants according to the Native Plant Society of Texas, Austin Chapter. But there are a few things that most Austin native plants have in common.
The simple answer is “yes,” however, there are restrictions depending on the water ban stage and where you live. Here are some common watering restrictions.
If you want to introduce native plants into your landscape, source them ethically. Don’t remove plants from the wild to transplant them into your yard. You can disturb wildlife habitats and introduce pests and diseases to your landscape.
\n\n\n\nInstead, check out the plant selection at one of these local nurseries that Austin Monthly recommends:
\n\n\n\nOnce you’ve filled your garden with low-maintenance native plants, it might be time to turn your attention to the lawn. Make sure you have one of the best grass types for Austin for the healthiest lawn possible. Then, keep your grass healthy without breaking a sweat by hiring a highly-rated Austin professional to handle lawn care for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Daniel Norton / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
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