Can St Augustine Grass Grow in Charlotte, NC?

If you're a homeowner in the Charlotte area, you might wonder if St. Augustine grass can thrive on your lawn. In this blog, we'll explore the suitability of St. Augustine grass for Charlotte's climate and provide you with some essential insights.

Can St Augustine Grass Grow in North Carolina?

St. Augustine grass is well-suited to Charlotte's hot and humid summers but has a low cold tolerance. The North Carolina winters can be hard on this grass, so choosing a grass with a higher cold tolerance is generally better. So while it can grow in Charlotte, it might not be the best choice. 

Maintenance Tips for St Augustine Grass

If you so decide to grow St. Augustine grass in Charlotte, here are some maintenance tips to keep your lawn healthy:

• Watering: Adequate watering is crucial during the growing season. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your St. Augustine grass according to a recommended schedule to promote healthy growth and color.
• Mowing: Keep your grass at a height of 2.5 to 4 inches. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.
• Pest and Weed Control: Be vigilant about pests and weeds that can affect St. Augustine grass, and implement appropriate control measures.

Best Fertilizer for St Augustine Grass

The best fertilizer for St. Augustine grass is a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content, such as a 16-4-8 or similar N-P-K ratio, designed for southern lawns. The best fertilizer also depends on the time of the year, and it's important to use a winterizer fertilizer in the fall with a lower nitrogen content to prepare your grass for the winter. 

Alternative Grass Options

If you're concerned about the winter cold in Charlotte, consider these alternative warm-season grasses that may be more cold-tolerant:

• Bermuda Grass: Bermuda grass can handle colder temperatures better than St. Augustine grass, making it a viable option for Charlotte.
• Zoysia Grass: Zoysia grass is another warm-season variety known for its cold tolerance and drought resistance.

Call FineTurf for Charlotte Lawn Care

If you need help maintaining St Augustine grass or any other grass type, call FineTurf for Charlotte lawn services! Our team offers customized solutions that will help you achieve the lawn you deserve. Our team has your back for fertilization, weed control, disease control, and more. Contact us today!