Growing & Maintaining St. Augustine Grass
St. Augustine grass is one of the top three turf choices for lawns in North Texas. While it can be more sensitive to pests and disease than Bermuda grass (for instance), with a proper fertilization and weed control program, St. Augustine remains a popular and resilient option for many homeowners. Typically found in humid coastal regions around the world, St. Augustine becomes less common as you move west past Fort Worth, where the climate is drier.
How to Identify St. Augustine Grass
St. Augustine grass has a distinct, coarse texture that sets it apart from other common turf grasses. It spreads using stolons, which are above-ground runners that create a dense, carpet-like appearance. The blades are thick, and the turf itself forms a lush, sprawling lawn when properly cared for. Due to its texture it is rarely used for golf courses or sports fields, yet it remains a favorite for homeowners and businesses throughout the area.
Several varieties of St. Augustine grass offer improved resistance to common pests and diseases. One notable challenge for St. Augustine lawns is a virus known as St. Augustine Decline (SAD). There is no cure for SAD, and if your lawn is affected you may need to replace the existing turf with a more SAD-resistant variety. Fortunately, newer cultivars have been developed to better withstand this virus, as well as pests like chinch bugs.
Tips for St. Augustine Grass Maintenance
To keep your St. Augustine lawn healthy it is essential to provide consistent care, including proper watering and mowing. Here are some tips for caring for your St. Augustine grass.
Appropriate Watering
This grass needs about one inch of water per week, enough to wet the soil to a depth of six inches. St. Augustine is typically mowed taller than other grasses like Bermuda, often to a height of 3–4 inches.
Sunlight Requirements
St. Augustine grows from plugs or sod rather than seed, and it is more shade-tolerant than Bermuda grass. However, it still needs at least six hours of full sunlight each day to thrive. When properly maintained, St. Augustine will naturally crowd out weeds and other grasses to create a thick, attractive lawn.
Proper Fertilization
Fertilization is key to maintaining a vibrant St. Augustine lawn. This grass also benefits from supplemental iron, which helps maintain its rich green color. Managing thatch, the layer of organic material that can build up between the soil and the grass, is another critical aspect of care. Excessive thatch buildup can become a problem when fertilization is not balanced correctly.
Pest Management
Additionally, pests like chinch bugs and white grubs are common threats to St. Augustine lawns, so regular monitoring and appropriate treatment when necessary is needed to prevent damage.
With the right care and attention, St. Augustine grass can provide a lush, inviting lawn that is well-suited to the climate of North Texas. Whether you’re looking for shade tolerance, the ability to crowd out weeds, or simply a hardy turf option, St. Augustine offers many benefits for the dedicated lawn enthusiast.
St. Augustine Grass Experts Serving North Texas
If you want your St. Augustine lawn to be the envy of the neighborhood, we can put you on the right track. We service lawns in Southlake, Keller, Bedford and beyond. Give us a call at (817) 684-4044 or get a free lawn care quote today.
