Maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn requires more than just regular mowing. The local climate and soil conditions play a significant role in determining the type of grass that thrives in this area. Understanding the specific grass species that make up your lawn can help you achieve the best results. In this post, we will explore the most common grass types found in lawns in this region, their characteristics, and how to care for them.
Bermuda Grass
Bermuda grass is well suited for lawns in Southern Illinois, and is a true champion of warm-climate regions due to its ability to withstand drought and tolerate hot temperatures. This grass thrives under the blazing sun, demanding your admiration and frequent watering during those sizzling summer months. To keep it in its prime, you’ll want to mow it to a height of 1-1.5 inches, preventing any unsightly thatch from building up.
Kentucky Bluegrass
Kentucky Bluegrass: the regal monarch of cool-season grasses. It flourishes in the northern regions of the United States, including our neck of the woods in Southern Illinois. This grass is all about that H2O, requiring plenty of water to maintain its majestic color and luxurious thickness. Imagine your lawn as a vibrant tapestry, intricately woven with hues of emerald. To fend off any unwanted weeds and diseases, keep your Kentucky Bluegrass trimmed to a height of 2-3 inches. Long live the king!
Zoysia Grass
Moving along, we encounter the resilient Zoysia grass. It’s like the tough guy of the lawn world, fearlessly standing up to heavy foot traffic. This warm-season grass is your reliable companion, requiring less water than its Bermuda grass counterpart. It’s not too picky when it comes to light, basking happily in full sun or partial shade. Picture your yard as a haven for barefoot adventures, where the kids can frolic freely without worrying about trampling your precious turf. Mow this warrior grass to a height of 1-2 inches and nourish it with regular fertilization, and it will reward you with a velvety, dense carpet of green.
Fescue Grass
Last but certainly not least, we come upon the versatile Fescue grass. It’s like the chameleon of the lawn universe, perfectly suited for the transitional zone between the North and South (including the Belleville/O’Fallon area and Southern Illinois). Shade-tolerant and water-savvy, this cool-season grass knows how to adapt to its surroundings. It’s the unsung hero of the neighborhood, quietly thriving with less water than its Kentucky Bluegrass counterparts. Mow it to a height of 2-3 inches, and come autumn, give it a fall-inspired boost with some well-timed fertilization. Prepare to witness a breathtaking transformation as your Fescue grass takes center stage, showcasing its resilient beauty.
Knowing the specific type of grass that makes up your lawn is crucial for maintaining a healthy and vibrant landscape. By understanding the characteristics and needs of the grass species mentioned above, you can create a personalized maintenance plan that caters to your lawn’s requirements. Remember to routinely provide deep, infrequent watering, mow your grass to the correct height, and fertilize it as needed. By following these tips, you can achieve a beautiful lawn that will stand out in your neighborhood’s envy.