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St. Augustine Grass: The 2023 Guide on Surviving Texas Heat
St. Augustine Grass

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If you live in Texas and have recently installed St. Augustine grass, you need to know how to take care of it before the summer hits. St. Augustine grass is a popular choice for lawns in Texas because it is drought-resistant and thrives in hot, humid climates. However, it requires special care during the first few weeks after installation to ensure it establishes well and survives the summer heat. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about taking care of your newly installed St. Augustine grass.

St. Augustine Grass

What is St. Augustine Grass?

Before we dive into the care instructions, it’s essential to know a little bit about St. Augustine grass. It’s a warm-season grass that is commonly grown in the southern United States, including Texas. It has a medium to dark green color, a thick texture, and a coarse blade. It is a popular choice for lawns because of its ability to thrive in hot and humid conditions.

The Best Time to Install

The best time to install St. Augustine grass is in the late spring or early summer when the soil is warm, and there is plenty of rainfall. This will allow the grass to establish well before the summer heat hits. If you install it too late in the summer, the grass will struggle to establish, and it may not survive the heat.

Watering Your Newly Installed St. Augustine Grass

Watering is crucial for its survival. For the first two weeks after installation, you should water your grass every day for 30 minutes, twice a day. This will help the roots establish and prevent the grass from drying out. After two weeks, you can start to reduce the frequency of watering to every other day. Once the grass is established, you can switch to a once-a-week watering schedule.

Fertilizing Your Newly Installed St. Augustine Grass

Fertilizing is essential for its growth and survival. You should wait at least four weeks after installation before applying any fertilizer. This will give the grass time to establish roots. When you do fertilize, use a slow-release fertilizer that will feed the grass over time.

Mowing Your Newly Installed St. Augustine Grass

You should wait at least three weeks after installation before mowing your newly installed St. Augustine grass. This will give the grass time to establish roots and avoid damaging the new growth. When you do start mowing, make sure to set your mower to a high setting. It should be mowed at a height of 3 to 4 inches to help it retain moisture and stay healthy.

Dealing with Pests and Weeds

Pests and weeds can be a problem for St. Augustine grass, especially in the summer. To prevent pests and weeds from taking over your lawn, you should apply a pre-emergent herbicide before they have a chance to germinate. This will help prevent weeds from taking root in your lawn. If you do notice pests or weeds in your lawn, it’s essential to address them promptly before they cause damage.

Protecting Your St. Augustine Grass from the Summer Heat

St. Augustine grass is well-adapted to hot and humid conditions, but it still needs protection from the summer heat. Here are some tips to help protect your grass:

  • Water your grass deeply and infrequently to help the roots grow deeper and make the grass more resistant to drought.
  • Avoid mowing your grass during the hottest part of the day to prevent heat stress.
  • Provide shade for your grass by planting trees or using a shade cloth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, following the necessary steps to care for your newly installed St. Augustine grass in Texas is crucial for its growth and survival. By implementing these tips, you can enjoy a healthy and thriving lawn throughout the summer. Don’t wait any longer to create your dream lawn this season! Visit A1 Grass and shop our selection of top-quality grass and landscaping materials to transform your outdoor space. Let’s work together to make your dreamscape a reality!

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