Native grasses for landscaping the backyard

When landscaping the backyard it is very important that one chooses the right type grass for a beautiful turf. In all 1400 species of 170 genera of indigenous grass are found in the United States. Out of these only 14 species are suitable for a turf and only two are native grass-buffalo grass (Buchlo dactyloides), and red fescue (Festuca rubra).

Buffalo grass

Buffalo grass is the most popular types of native grass used for a lawn and has a great success story. These grasses in areas soils those are not too moist, too dry, or too shady. Buffalo grass can survive and thrive in temperatures upto 30 degree F and can even handle high heat. It has a peculiar soft and fine texture and spreads by stolons at the nodes or joints. These grasses are slow growing and attain a height on only 6 inches. Buffalo grasses unlike most grasses need minimal aster and no fertilizers once they are established.

Red fescue

After various researches finally turf grass specialists have succeeded in developing fine fescues, which include red, hard and sheep fescue. Normally fescues are slow growing and reach a height of 8 inches. These grasses thrive dry soil and also in extreme cold conditions. However extreme heat and humidity are not for the fescue growth. As been a recent development fescue are not so popular but are slowly picking up with new cultivators.

General features of native grasses

Normally native grasses are short growing and grow from heights between 5 to 8 inches, thus they offer convenience of not mowing if desired. These grasses send up attractive seed bearing stems that look very beautiful. Native grasses are mainly divided in two types based on their growing habits. One is cool-season grasses that grow best in spring and fall. These grasses bloom and set seed in late spring or early summer. This grass is green in winter and turns dormant in the summers. Other is warm season grasses, those that do most of their growing in the hot summer. These grasses bloom and set seed in the fall, and turn beige or other interesting colors when cold weather arrives.

Native grasses are highly suitable for home owners who prefer a smoother appearance, minimal watering and lest mowing.

Recommended Reading

1. How to make backyard beautiful with wildlife
Backyard is a secured place to the raising young. It serves as a limiting factor in attracting some species of...
2. Shaping Up : Secrets to Growing a Healthy Hedge
There is really nothing to growing a healthy hedge. A hedge is one of the easiest plants to attempt to...
3. The Importance of Landscaping Trees
Landscaping trees can provide many components to any overall landscaping design, and it is important to understand the importance of...
4. Desert Landscaping Makes Lovely Show With Little Water
Forget about your Wily E. Coyote image of the desert: all flat, brown, and barren except for a few foreboding...
5. Fertilizers for beautifying the backyard garden
The beauty of a backyard often is captivating and mesmerizing. It gives a feel as if one is resting in...