- Bahiagrass<\/a><\/li>
- Bermudagrass\u00a0<\/a><\/li>
- Buffalograss<\/a><\/li>
- Centipedegrass<\/a><\/li>
- St. Augustinegrass<\/a><\/li>
- Zoysiagrass<\/a><\/li>
- How to Choose the Best Grass in San Antonio<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
Bahiagrass<\/h2>
![\"Bahiagrass\"](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rsz_24854989872_453b8a1dc0_c.jpg\")
Bahiagrass
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>Typically grown in the southernmost states, bahiagrass<\/a> is known for growing in difficult soil. With a deep, thick root system, it grows well in sandy environments<\/a> and adapts easily to clay. This is a plus for San Antonio homeowners because sand and clay are the two most common soil types in this city. <\/p>
A warm-season grass, bahiagrass thrives in full sun and Central Texas\u2019s high heat. This turf has a high drought tolerance and a low need for watering, making it ideal for lawns without an irrigation system. Bahiagrass quickly recovers from drought with irrigation, but be careful not to overwater, which will weaken the root system.<\/p>
Bahiagrass prefers mild winters and is one of the most pest and disease-resistant grass types. Although it is not tolerant of shade, it typically endures better than bermudagrass and tolerates poor drainage. This grass grows in flat spiky leaves and is not aggressive.<\/p>
Flower bed invasion and thatch are not a concern, but weeds may become a problem. Bahiagrass is a low-maintenance grass that reseeds itself and only requires mowing every seven to 14 days. Traditionally used as a pasture grass, it tends to be less thick and attractive than some other grass types but is relatively tolerant to traffic.<\/p>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Rhizomes<\/li>
- Shade tolerance<\/strong>: Low<\/li>
- Drought tolerance<\/strong>: High; It rebounds well with watering, but don\u2019t overwater.<\/li>
- Traffic tolerance<\/strong>: Moderate\u00a0<\/li>
- Maintenance needs<\/strong>: Low; Bahiagrass seeds itself. It requires little irrigation and fertilization, doesn\u2019t form thatch, and doesn\u2019t tend to invade flower beds. This turf is resistant to drought, pests, and disease but will likely require weeding. The mowing recommendation is once every seven to 14 days.<\/li>
- Recommended mowing height<\/strong>: Ideal grass height is 3-4 inches.<\/li> <\/ul>
Bahiagrass Quick Guide<\/h3>
Pros<\/strong><\/h4>
- Low maintenance and reseeds itself<\/li>
- Grows in San Antonio\u2019s sandy and clay soil<\/li>
- High drought tolerance, good for lawns without an irrigation system<\/li>
- Among the most resistant to pests and diseases<\/li>
- Adaptable and moderately tolerates cool weather and traffic<\/li> <\/ul>
Cons<\/strong><\/h4>
- Low shade resistance<\/li>
- Not as thick and attractive as some other grass types<\/li>
- Overwatering can weaken the root system<\/li> <\/ul>
Grass Seed Options\u00a0<\/strong>
Pensacola Bahiagrass:
\u2013 Scotts Turf Builder Pensacola Bahiagrass<\/a> (5 lb. bag)
\u2013 Hancock Seed Co. Pensacola Bahiagrass Seed<\/a> (5 lb. bag)
\u2013 SeedRanch Pensacola Bahiagrass Seed<\/a> (10 lb. bag)
Argentine Bahiagrass:
\u2013 Scotts Turf Builder Argentine Bahiagrass<\/a> (10 lb. bag)
\u2013 Hancock Seed Co. Argentine Bahiagrass Seed Mix<\/a> (25 lb. bag)<\/p>Bermudagrass <\/h2>
![\"Bermuda](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rsz_4080038677_f1faf335b3_c.jpg\")
Bermudagrass
Photo Credit: Matt Levin<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>Bermudagrass is a warm-season grass that flourishes best in full-sun areas. Although not native to the United States, it now thrives throughout the South due to its ability to tolerate high heat.<\/p>
Because of its durability, bermudagrass<\/a> is a common choice for high-traffic areas like active backyards, golf courses, and athletic fields. It tolerates San Antonio\u2019s clay soils, high-salt soils, and drought conditions. Because it can survive with as little as 24 inches of annual rain, it\u2019s unlikely that your lawn will need additional watering.<\/p>
For optimal greenery, choose an effective fertilizer<\/a>. Considered high maintenance, bermudagrass tends to build up thatch and invade flower beds. It can be such a hassle that gardeners have nicknamed it the \u201cdevil\u2019s grass.\u201d It will also need frequent mowing, as often as twice a week, and is susceptible to disease and pests.<\/p>
Due to its durability and fast, thick growth, bermudagrass is considered to be one of the more attractive warm-season grass types.<\/p>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons and rhizomes<\/li>
- Shade tolerance<\/strong>: Poor; thrives in full sun<\/li>
- Drought tolerance<\/strong>: High\u00a0<\/li>
- Traffic tolerance<\/strong>: High foot and vehicle tolerance; quickly recovers from damage<\/li>
- Maintenance needs<\/strong>: High; rapid growth causes high thatch levels and flower bed invasion; requires mowing one to two times per week\u00a0<\/li>
- Recommended mowing height<\/strong>: Bermudagrass should be cut at a height of 1 to 2 inches.\u00a0<\/li> <\/ul>
Bermudagrass Quick Guide<\/h3>
Pros<\/strong><\/h4>
- Grows quickly and creates dense ground cover<\/li>
- High drought tolerance (great for San Antonio\u2019s low rain years) <\/li>
- Grows well in San Antonio\u2019s high clay soil<\/li>
- Often used for high-traffic areas due to its ability to recover quickly from damage<\/li> <\/ul>
Cons<\/strong><\/h4>
- Grows aggressively and is known to invade flower beds, creating the nickname the \u201cdevil\u2019s grass\u201d<\/li>
- Tends to be high-maintenance due to its excessive growth and the need for frequent mows <\/li>
- Fails to thrive in cooler temperatures and shade<\/li> <\/ul>
Grass Seed Options:
\u2013 <\/strong>Pennington Bermudagrass Bare Spot<\/a> (5 lb. bag)
\u2013 Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass Mix<\/a> (8.75-lb. bag)
\u2013 Scotts Turf Builder Bermudagrass<\/a> (10-lb. bag)
\u2013 Hancock Seed Co. Bermudagrass<\/a> (50-lb. bag)<\/p>Buffalograss<\/h2>
![\"buffalo](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rsz_pixnio-4149-2560x1920-1.jpg\")
Buffalograss
Photo Credit: Titus Tscharntke<\/a> \/ Pixnio \/ CC0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>Buffalograss is a warm-season grass that is native to North America. This grass has a high tolerance for colder temperatures and doesn\u2019t enter dormancy as early as other warm-season grasses. With excellent drought resistance, buffalograss<\/a> grows best in areas with 25 inches of rain or less.<\/p>
Because San Antonio averages 30 inches of annual rain, your lawn may need additional maintenance to keep out weeds that tend to form with extra water. However, this turf won’t require additional irrigation.<\/p>
Buffalograss is a popular choice throughout Texas, including nearby Austin<\/a>. This turf can survive on minimal fertilizer and mowing and typically has a long winter dormancy. With thin, deep-growing roots, buffalograss succeeds in clay and compacted soil. Although it can tolerate some activity, it is not suited for high traffic areas.<\/p>
Like many types of grass, buffalograss can be vulnerable to pests and diseases, especially false smut, a fungal disease that affects germination.<\/p>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons<\/li>
- Shade tolerance<\/strong>: Low\u00a0<\/li>
- Drought tolerance<\/strong>: High\u00a0<\/li>
- Traffic tolerance<\/strong>: Low to moderate<\/li>
- Maintenance needs<\/strong>: Unless overwatered, buffalograss is a low-maintenance turf. It will survive in high heat and cold as well as drought conditions. Mowing is only needed once every seven to 14 days.<\/li>
- Recommended mowing height<\/strong>: 2 to 3 inches\u00a0<\/li> <\/ul>
Buffalograss Quick Guide<\/h3>
Pros<\/strong><\/h4>
- Low-maintenance: needs little fertilizer, infrequent mowing, and needs weeding only in times of higher rainfall.<\/li>
- High tolerance to heat, cold, and drought conditions<\/li>
- Grows well in San Antonio\u2019s high clay areas<\/li>
- Successful ground cover without flower bed invasion<\/li>
- Stays greener longer<\/li> <\/ul>
Cons<\/strong><\/h4>
- Only moderate tolerance to traffic<\/li>
- With average rainfall higher than optimal, occasional weeding will be necessary.<\/li>
- Doesn\u2019t thrive in shaded areas<\/li> <\/ul>
Grass Seed Options:
<\/strong>\u2013 <\/strong>Everwilde Farms Buffalograss Seeds<\/a> (1 lb. of seeds)
\u2013 Scotts Pursue Buffalograss with Natural Seed<\/a> (1 lb. of seeds)
\u2013 Outsidepride Perennial Buffalo Grass Seed<\/a> (2 lb. of seeds)<\/p>Centipedegrass<\/h2>
![\"Centipedegrass\"](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rsz_centipedegrass-800-800-1-1.jpg\")
Centipedegrass
Photo credit: Michael Rivera<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>Centipedegrass is known for its high heat tolerance and thick, dense ground cover. It doesn\u2019t handle drought as well as it does the heat but will quickly turn green again with irrigation. Additional watering is needed, especially in times of low rain. Light green in color and common throughout the South, it has low fertilization and mowing needs.<\/p>
Centipedegrass<\/a> is more susceptible to the cold than other warm-season grasses but recovers in higher temperatures. However, a rare Texas deep freeze can prove to be fatal. Although it grows best in the sun, it tolerates moderate shade and is best for lounging due to its low traffic tolerance.<\/p>
Because this grass can be sensitive to weed-and-feeds, check labels before applying. Homeowners need to watch out for damaging San Antonio lawn diseases<\/a> as well as pests, including mole crickets, chinch bugs, and billbugs. Although it doesn\u2019t grow particularly well in high clay areas, centipedegrass does flourish in San Antonio\u2019s sandy soil.<\/p>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons<\/li>
- Shade tolerance<\/strong>: Grows best in a full sun area, but it can tolerate moderate shade.\u00a0<\/li>
- Drought tolerance<\/strong>: Moderate; can recover with irrigation<\/li>
- Traffic tolerance:<\/strong> Low<\/li>
- Maintenance needs<\/strong>: Low; needs limited weeding, mowing, and fertilization. An iron supplement will help keep it green. This turf is slow-growing, so mowing is only needed once every seven to 14 days.<\/li>
- Recommended mowing height<\/strong>: The ideal height is 1.5 to 2.5 inches.<\/li> <\/ul>
Centipedegrass Quick Guide<\/h3>
Pros<\/strong><\/h4>
- Grows well in sand, common in San Antonio<\/li>
- Exceptionally high heat tolerance<\/li>
- Low maintenance. Little weeding, fertilization, and mowing once every seven to 14 days<\/li>
- Can handle the shade<\/li>
- Thick, dense ground cover without invading flower beds<\/li> <\/ul>
Cons<\/strong><\/h4>
- Low traffic tolerance<\/li>
- Moderate drought tolerance<\/li>
- Susceptible to certain pests<\/li> <\/ul>
Grass Seed Options:
<\/strong>\u2013 <\/strong>Gulf Kist Coated Centipedegrass Seeds<\/a> (1 lb.)
\u2013 Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair Centipedegrass<\/a> (3.75 lbs.)
\u2013 TifBlair Centipedegrass<\/a> (5-lb. bag)
\u2013 Pennington Centipedegrass and Mulch<\/a> (5-lb. bag)<\/p>St. Augustinegrass<\/h2>
![\"St.](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rsz_800px-stenotaphrum_secundatum_variegatum-1-the_regent_hill-yercaud-salem-india.jpg\")
St. Augustinegrass
Photo Credit: Yercaud-elango<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>Common in tropical and subtropical areas, St. Augustinegrass<\/a> is a warm-season grass that grows in the southernmost states. A dark green grass, this turf emerges in a thick, carpet-like sod that crowds out most other grasses and weeds and has earned the nickname \u201ccarpet grass.\u201d<\/p>
Because of its strong, thick growth, it can develop thatch and invade flower beds if not managed. It flourishes in areas with good drainage, like San Antonio\u2019s sandy soil areas. Considered a moderate maintenance turf, it is vulnerable to drought, making irrigation necessary when rainfall is less consistent.<\/p>
Due to its wide, thick leaves, using a sharp blade when mowing is best to prevent tearing. St. Augustinegrass is vulnerable to the cold and needs monitoring when reemerging from dormancy. A regular, effective fertilization<\/a> schedule will ensure steady growth, making your lawn green and beautiful.<\/p>
Although more resistant to pests than other grasses, aggressive insects such as chinch bugs can become a problem. St. Augustinegrass has a moderate tolerance to traffic and shade.<\/p>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons<\/li>
- Shade tolerance<\/strong>: Moderate\u00a0<\/li>
- Drought tolerance<\/strong>: Moderate; will need additional irrigation in times of low rainfall<\/li>
- Traffic tolerance<\/strong>: Moderate<\/li>
- Maintenance needs<\/strong>: Moderate; St. Augustinegrass will need dethatching, regular fertilization, and irrigation. It has been known to invade flower beds if left unchecked. During peak growing season, cutting every seven to 10 days is recommended.<\/li>
- Recommended mowing height<\/strong>: Mow St. Augustine grass at a height of 3.5 to 4 inches. Use the One-Third Rule, being careful not to cut more than one-third of the leaf when mowing. Cutting grass too short will cause stress and yellow your lawn.<\/li> <\/ul>
St. Augustinegrass Quick Guide<\/h3>
Pros<\/strong><\/h4>
- Grows in thick and carpet-like. Nickname is \u201ccarpet grass\u201d<\/li>
- Tolerates moderate shade<\/li>
- Moderate maintenance creates a lush lawn<\/li>
- Less vulnerable to insects than most other grasses<\/li>
- Thrives in San Antonio\u2019s sandy soils<\/li> <\/ul>
Cons<\/strong><\/h4>
- It will likely need consistent irrigation<\/li>
- Fertilization is a necessity, especially in the establishment stage<\/li>
- Must be careful to monitor for frost when emerging from dormancy, for flower bed invasion, and to use proper mowing techniques for optimal lawn health<\/li> <\/ul>
Grass Plug Options:
<\/strong>\u2013 Seed Ranch St Augustine Seville Grass Plugs<\/a> (2 Trays)
\u2013 Seed Ranch St Augustine Floratam Grass Plugs<\/a> (2 Trays) <\/p>Zoysiagrass<\/h2>
![\"close-up](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/rsz_1280px-starr-070906-8519-zoysia_sp-turf-kula_ace_hardware_and_nursery-maui_24264641643.jpg\")
Zoysiagrass
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY 3.0 US<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>Primarily found in southernmost states like Texas, Zoysiagrass<\/a> is a warm-season grass with thin leaves that sprouts soft and thick. This turf is adaptable and has a high salt tolerance, making it a great choice for various soil types, including San Antonio\u2019s clay and sandy soils<\/a>.<\/p>
Its deep thick root system ensures water and oxygen absorption but can cause flower bed invasion if left to grow unchecked. This grass has a wide range of temperature tolerance, making it more resistant to cold than other warm-season grasses. It is one of the first grasses to reemerge in the spring.<\/p>
Although Zoysiagrass is drought-resistant, it tends to turn brown with low rainfall but recovers when irrigated. This grass requires proper drainage but less fertilization. It is pest-resistant, so only the worst insects create a problem. Its slow growth means slower recovery from traffic damage, even though it tends to hold up well against activity.<\/p>
Because of its durability, this grass is used both in residential and commercial areas and is often seen on golf greens and parks. This grass has a low to moderate tolerance for shade and repels weeds. However, due to its thick growth, it can develop thatch. Despite its slower growth rate, it will still need mowing about once a week, depending on the time of year.<\/p>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons and rhizomes<\/li>
- Shade tolerance<\/strong>: Low to moderate<\/li>
- Drought tolerance<\/strong>: Moderate; will turn brown, but recovers quickly<\/li>
- Traffic tolerance<\/strong>: High traffic tolerance, but recovers slowly from damage<\/li>
- Maintenance needs<\/strong>: Moderate; Zoysiagrass will need irrigation in times of low rainfall and monitoring for flower bed invasion and high levels of thatch. This turf is pest and disease resistant and requires less fertilization than most other grasses. Mowing once a week is recommended.<\/li>
- Recommended mowing height<\/strong>: Ideal height is 2 inches<\/li> <\/ul>
Zoysiagrass Quick Guide<\/h3>
Pros<\/strong><\/h4>
- Moderate shade and high traffic tolerance<\/li>
- Pest and disease resistant<\/li>
- Recovers quickly from drought<\/li>
- Grows well in a variety of soils, including San Antonio\u2019s clay and sandy soils<\/li>
- Tolerates cold better than most warm-season grasses<\/li> <\/ul>
Cons<\/strong><\/h4>
- Recovers slowly from traffic damage<\/li>
- Will require moderate maintenance, such as watering and monitoring closely for flower bed invasion and thatch<\/li>
- Turns brown with drought<\/li> <\/ul>
Grass Plug and Seed Options:
<\/strong>\u2013 Zoysia Plugs <\/a>(50 Large Grass Plugs)
\u2013 Zoysia Plugs <\/a>(50 Full & Lush Grass Plugs)
\u2013 Zoysia Plugs <\/a>(100 Plugs)
\u2013 Zoysia Emerald Grass Seeds<\/a> (1\/8 lb. of seeds)
\u2013 Zenith Zenith Grass Seeds<\/a> (1\/8 lb. of seeds)<\/p>How to Choose the Best Grass in San Antonio<\/h2>
Heavy-Traffic vs. Low-Traffic Areas<\/h3>
First, how do you plan to use your lawn? Some grass types hold up well against heavy traffic, like backyard gatherings or a football match on Thanksgiving. However, other turfs are best suited for low activity, such as reading in the sun or peacefully observing San Antonio\u2019s gorgeous skyline. <\/p>
Best grass types for high-traffic areas:<\/strong><\/p>
- Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass (recovers slowly from damage)<\/li> <\/ul>
Best grass types for low to moderate traffic:<\/strong><\/p>
- Buffalograss, bahiagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass<\/li> <\/ul>
How Much Maintenance?<\/h3>
Another consideration is the time you have to devote to lawn maintenance. Some grass types need frequent mowing, others might need extra water, and others are susceptible to pests and disease. You may need to watch for flower bed invasions, weeds, or slow stress recovery.<\/p>
High-maintenance grasses:<\/strong><\/p>
- Bermudagrass<\/li> <\/ul>
Low- to moderate-maintenance grasses:<\/strong><\/p>
- Buffalograss, bahiagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass<\/li> <\/ul>
Soil Type<\/h3>
Another aspect to think about is your soil type. San Antonio tends to have heavy clay or difficult sandy soils. If you have clay, you\u2019ll need grasses that have a fibrous root system that draws water and scarce oxygen from the compacted ground. Sandy soil doesn\u2019t hold water and nutrients well, so you may need turf with low irrigation needs.<\/p>
Tolerates clay soil:<\/strong><\/p>
- Bahiagrass (either clay or sandy), bermudagrass, buffalograss, Zoysiagrass (either clay or sandy)<\/li> <\/ul>
Tolerates sandy soil:<\/strong><\/p>
- Bahiagrass (either clay or sandy), centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass (either clay or sandy)<\/li> <\/ul>
Let Someone Else Mow in San Antonio<\/h2>
If you\u2019re preparing your lawn for new grass, replacing existing turf, or need lawn repair, hire a professional for the best results. Contact a local
- Bahiagrass (either clay or sandy), centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass (either clay or sandy)<\/li> <\/ul>
- Bahiagrass (either clay or sandy), bermudagrass, buffalograss, Zoysiagrass (either clay or sandy)<\/li> <\/ul>
- Buffalograss, bahiagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass<\/li> <\/ul>
- Bermudagrass<\/li> <\/ul>
- Buffalograss, bahiagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass<\/li> <\/ul>
- Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass (recovers slowly from damage)<\/li> <\/ul>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons and rhizomes<\/li>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons<\/li>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons<\/li>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons<\/li>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Stolons and rhizomes<\/li>
- Classification:<\/strong> Warm-season grass<\/li>
- Spreads by:<\/strong> Rhizomes<\/li>
- Bermudagrass\u00a0<\/a><\/li>