Floratam Grass in Florida

Floratam grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum ‘Floratam’) is a staple in Florida lawns, admired for its lush green carpet-like appearance and resilience in the face of the state’s challenging climate. This popular St. Augustine grass variety has earned its reputation as a top choice among homeowners and landscapers alike. In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of Floratam grass, exploring its unique features and providing essential tips on how to care for it to ensure a thriving lawn.

Understanding Floratam Grass

Floratam grass has a distinct set of characteristics that make it a favorite for Florida landscapes. Let’s take a closer look:

Texture and Color: Floratam boasts a coarse texture and a rich, dark green color. Its striking appearance lends a vibrant and inviting look to your lawn.

Heat Tolerance: This variety excels in hot and humid conditions, a common feature of Florida’s climate. Floratam is well-suited to withstand the scorching summer sun.

Disease Resistance: Floratam exhibits good resistance to common St. Augustine grass diseases, making it a reliable choice for a healthy lawn.

Vigorous Growth: Known for its vigorous growth, Floratam can quickly cover bare spots and recover from wear and tear.

Caring for Your Floratam Grass Lawn

Maintaining a beautiful Floratam lawn requires some dedicated care and attention. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your grass thrives:

Proper Mowing:

• Mowing Height: Maintain a mowing height of 3.5 to 4 inches for Floratam grass. This height helps the grass develop strong roots and provides shade to the soil, reducing weed growth.
• Frequency: Mow regularly but avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing session.
• Sharp Blades: Keep your mower blades sharp to create clean cuts and prevent damage to the grass.

Proper Irrigation:

• Consistent Moisture: Floratam grass requires regular and consistent moisture. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth and reduce the risk of disease.
• Early Morning Watering: Water your lawn in the early morning to allow the grass blades to dry during the day, reducing the risk of fungal infections.
• Adjust to Seasonal Needs: Be mindful of changing weather conditions and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Florida’s rainy season may require less irrigation.

Fertilization:

• Soil Test: Start with a soil test to determine your lawn’s specific nutrient needs. Floratam grass generally benefits from a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 16-4-8 or 15-0-15.
• Application Timing: Apply fertilizer during the growing season (spring through early fall) when the grass is actively growing.
• Avoid Overfeeding: Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and increased susceptibility to pests.

Weed Control:

• Preventive Measures: Maintain a healthy lawn to minimize weed infestations. Regular mowing and proper irrigation can help prevent weed growth.
• Selective Herbicides: If weeds do appear, consider using selective herbicides specifically designed for St. Augustine grass to avoid harming your Floratam lawn.

Pest Management:

• Vigilance: Keep an eye out for common pests like chinch bugs and grubs. Early detection is key to effective pest control.
• Treatment: If you notice signs of infestation, consult with a professional or use appropriate pesticides as recommended.

Aeration:

• Aerate Annually: Perform core aeration at least once a year, typically in the spring or early summer. Aeration helps improve soil compaction and allows for better nutrient and water absorption.

Maintain a Lawn Care Calendar:

• Create a Schedule: Develop a lawn care calendar that outlines specific tasks for each season. This ensures that you address your Floratam grass’s changing needs throughout the year.

Soil Testing:

• Regular Testing: Periodically conduct soil tests to monitor the pH and nutrient levels. Adjust your fertilization plan based on the test results to provide precisely what your lawn needs.

Lawn Renovation:

• Overseeding: If your Floratam lawn experiences thinning or bare patches, consider overseeding with Floratam grass seed to rejuvenate its appearance.

Consulting Professionals:

• Expert Advice: Don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of lawn care professionals or local horticultural experts to address specific challenges or concerns.

Cultivating a thriving Floratam grass lawn in Florida is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a vibrant, resilient, and enjoyable outdoor space. By following the care and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Floratam grass lawn remains a source of pride and pleasure for years to come. With the right care, your lawn will be the envy of the neighborhood, and you’ll enjoy the beauty of your lush, green carpet-like landscape.

Hudson Ranch Sod grows a variety of sods and can supply you with enough grass for a single house, or an entire golf course. Contact us today for the latest pricing and availability. We hope you enjoyed this article on how to avoid weeds in your lawn.