Not everyone is aware there are several different species of grass that are suitable for use on lawns. They differ in terms of their suitability for different climates, the way they grow, and the shade of green they provide.
They also require varying levels of maintenance, which means some need more watering and regular mowing than others. Getting the perfect lawn is as much about choosing the right grass as it is about aftercare, and that’s why we’re talking about one type today – St Augustine Grass. Let’s begin by explaining what it is.
What is St Augustine Grass?
Among the more popular of lawn grasses, St Augustine grass is a hardy variety that is found widely in the USA and is especially at home in warm coastal areas where it thrives. It provides a rich green/blue blade that is broad and attractive and is a perennial, so it will withstand the winter dormant periods. St Augustine grass grows quite quickly and will withstand those hot summers and will equally survive colder winters.
It should be noted that this grass will more than likely turn brown in winter, so if that’s not for you, it’s the wrong lawn material. However, it is not free from maintenance and requires regular mowing – which brings us to the question in the title.
In fact, it’s fair to say that among the many types of grass, St Augustine grass is one of the high-maintenance options. It grows avidly and thickly, and as such, needs to be mowed frequently during the spring and summer.
By frequently, we mean once a week and not too low, as this is a grass that does not take to being cut too thinly. It’s a very robust plant that is vibrant in terms of growth and takes a particular type of machine to keep it right. For your information, read this review on the best lawnmower for St Augustine grass across all budgets.
What Maintenance Does St Augustine Grass Require?
As we mentioned above, there are many types of grass suitable for lawns, and St Augustine grass is just one of them. It does have its advantages – it will grow in just about any soil and is tolerant of salt, so it is popular for coastal regions, plus it looks a beautiful color when in full growth – but it also needs plenty of maintenance, in addition to the mowing mentioned above. Also, it will not tolerate heavy footfall as it is not resistant to wear and easily damaged.
You also need to be aware that St Augustine grass is surprisingly susceptible to pests, with the Southern Clinch Bug being a notable problem if it is allowed to get to grips with the lawn. This bug can destroy a lawn quite easily, so it needs to be kept at bay.
Look out for diseases also as while hardy and thick grass, it is not immune to problematic diseases that can cause serious problems. Fertilizing St Augustine grass is also advised if you are in an area where winters are cold, as this will help keep it in top condition for the coming season.
Having said all that, and making it clear it is high-maintenance lawn grass, it is also an extremely attractive one if kept well and makes for a thick carpet of lawn underfoot. This is why it is favored by many who enjoy their lawn without letting it be worked too hard, and especially those in the warmer coastal areas. So, St Augustine grass – is it the one for your lawn? Let’s sum this up.
Is St Augustine Grass Right for Me?
It’s no secret that beautiful lawns are part of American homes, and when you choose the grass for your lawn, you need to do so carefully. If you are in a warmer coastal area, then there is no doubt that – despite having some drawbacks – St Augustine grass is a good choice thanks to being salt-tolerant and withstanding the hot summers. If you have a garden that sees a lot of traffic across it, then it may not be the one for you. Check out more advice on the grass where you can and ask local garden centers for advice.
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