Let’s face it, at this time of the year very few of us have lawns that are looking healthy and vibrant. Most yards are blanketed by a large patch of brown that we hope will fare better than it did the previous year. And if we are overly ambitious, our hope may be set on our turf being comprised of more grass than weeds the coming summer. Which brings about a very worthy question: if your summer Saturdays are spent mowing weeds down instead of cutting a carpet of grass, what can be done about that? This is a question many people ask when thinking about their current and next sod project.
For some, starting afresh can be the best option. Removing old sod that is interspersed with dead spots and pockets of weeds and replacing it with new, healthy sod can often be the jumpstart that you need. If this is where you find yourself this winter, it may be worth considering a few of the different types of sod that you could end up choosing. Today, we will take a look at one of the most well-known grasses in the South: St. Augustine.
Pros of St. Augustine Grass for Your Next Sod Project
Most in the South are already quite familiar with this ubiquitous grass. St. Augustine is a perennial favorite among many because of its ability to withstand higher temperatures. It is also well-liked due to its ability to flourish in many different types of soils. Additionally, this grass is one of the best at growing in shady areas.
Cons of St. Augustine Grass for Your Next Sod Project
St. Augustine is not without its drawbacks though. It does not hold up well to heavy foot traffic, but it should be noted that it should fare well enough in residential capacities. This sod also is not very drought tolerant and is susceptible to fungus and insects such as chinch bugs and army ants.
Maintenance Expectations with St. Augustine Sod
When it comes to any type of turf maintenance, irrigation is absolutely crucial. Being sure not to over or underwater the grass can go a long way towards preserving a healthy lawn. One way of doing this is to water based on the eye, watering whenever it appears as though the grass is needing some water. The problem with this is that while it may be easier to observe when the grass is obviously in need of water, it may already be too late and it is less easy to know when you are in fact overwatering. This is why an irrigation system that can be scheduled is preferred. It is also best to avoid watering at night as this can lead to an increased risk of fungus. Instead, water in the mornings as this gives the soil ample time to dry before evening. Finally, St. Augustine should not be mowed at the lowest level of the lawnmower. It is best if St. Augustine is cut between 3 and 4 inches.
If you’ve come to the point where it may be best to start over with new sod for your sod project, then it is recommended that you seek out a professional opinion in your local area who will be able to provide further detail on your pick and may even be able to offer some help in the project.
Carolina Services Landscaping is a leading provider of commercial landscapes in Charleston, SC and throughout the Lowcountry. We are a full service landscaping company offering design, build and maintenance services with dedication and attention to detail, quality workmanship, qualified personnel and exceptional value. We partner with corporations, churches, government entities, small business and other organizations and provide an aesthetically pleasing environment that is second to none.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment so we can keep your business beautiful.
