Lawn Care Tips for Common Types of Florida Grass

Create Curb Appeal with a Well-Maintained Lawn

As we all know, first impressions are essential.

And your lawn is one of the first things people see when they arrive at your home or business, so it’s important for your landscape to be a healthy and inviting one.

A well-kept lawn can do wonders for your family, neighborhood, and even the environment. Many factors contribute to maintaining a healthy lawn, from types of grass and moisture levels, to pest control, fungus control, and weed removal.

Florida lawns require a higher level of care due to the humid and tropical climate. Besides the pests, weeds, and lawn diseases that thrive in Florida, these lawns are more likely to experience environmental stresses as well. These problems include lack of nutrients, salinity, extreme temperatures, inclement weather, over (or under) watering, fungi, soil problems, and exposure to shade or traffic.

Common Types of Grass in Florida

There are over 3,500 identified species of grass. Luckily, of these species, there are only a few that are most common in Florida lawns. These include: Bahia, Bermuda, St. Augustine, and Zoysia. Each has its unique set of concerns but will thrive with proper care.

Bahia Grass

Bahia grass is a good choice for homes with large lots or acreage. Ideally, it should be mowed every seven to 14 days and maintain a height of 3 to 4 inches.

It is a relatively low-maintenance grass. It has few disease and insect problems, and it does well with limited water and fertilizer inputs.

Bahia forms seed heads through spring, summer, and fall that are unsightly. This creates the need for highly regular mowing to prevent the seed heads from rising too tall. The seed heads are also tough and will dull mower blades, requiring frequent sharpening.

Bermuda Grass

Bermuda grass is one of the most widely used warm-season grasses.

It is a medium-to-dark green turf that is well-adapted to most soils and the Floridian climate. It should be mowed a minimum of one to two times a week and should be cut at a height of 1 to 2 inches. This grass can tolerate drought and salt and can withstand low temperatures, which is ideal for the Florida climate. 

Bermuda grass is commonly used for golf courses and athletic fields, both of which require more maintenance than other lawn grasses. Bermuda grass has poor tolerance to pests and grows very aggressively, giving it the ability to rapidly invade flower and landscape beds.

St. Augustine Grass

St. Augustine grass has adapted to the warm, humid, and subtropical climate of Florida over the years.

Because of this, it is the most commonly used lawn grass in the state of Florida. Since St. Augustine grass thrives in the Florida climate, it grows quickly and easily, producing a green/blue-green colored lawn.

In times of drought, St. Augustine grass requires irrigation. If your lawn receives foot traffic or vehicular traffic, the grass will wear quickly. In some areas of Florida, St. Augustine grass turns brown during the winter months.

Zoysia Grass

Found throughout the United States, Zoysia grass is used for golf courses, athletic fields, and residential/commercial landscapes.

Throughout the last few years, scientists have improved zoysia grass’ insect resistance and overall performance. It has adapted to many different soil types and is tolerant to shade and traffic. Zoysia grass has a very dense sod that resists weeds.

Pests can be prevalent in Zoysia grass, which means it requires careful maintenance — if improper maintenance occurs, the landscape will see a negative impact.

Tips for Keeping a Healthy Florida Lawn

Lawn care tips aren’t enough if you don’t understand the landscape surrounding your home or business.

Every type of grass has its own unique set of needs when it comes to mowing, fertilization, and watering techniques. It’s important to understand the needs of your grass so that your lawn can thrive and help increase your property’s curb appeal.

Proper Watering Techniques

Florida is nicknamed the “Sunshine State” for a reason.

The sun peaks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and watering during these hours will lead to evaporation. Watering your lawn early in the morning or later in the afternoon allows the water to have plenty of time to be absorbed by the roots.

Proper Fertilization 

During the summer months, your lawn does not need extra fertilization. Instead, fertilizing during the spring and fall seasons better encourage a healthy growth rate.

Proper pH Levels

The soil’s pH is a measurement of acidity and alkalinity. In many areas of Florida, residents will find their soil has high pH due to natural elements. Soil with the proper amount of nutrients is truly essential for a lawn to grow and thrive. Homeowners should have their soil tested by professionals so that they can determine which plants will thrive in their landscape.

Maintain Your Lawn Care Equipment

It is ideal tosharpen your mower blades, typically every four to six weeks. Having sharp mower blades gives you a clean, healthy-looking lawn.

To avoid dulling your mower blades, try not to mow over obstacles like thick branches or stones.

Professional Lawn Care

When it comes to the health of your lawn, no one understands its needs more than a professional. From lawn pest control and weed removal to proper fertilization, this is the ideal solution to maintain your lawn.

Keeping your lawn beautiful in Florida is a lot of hard work. Whether it’s general lawn care, pest removal and treatment, or lawn disease control, Catseye is committed to helping you maintain a healthy lawn.

To get started, contact us for more information.