Types of Sod Grass for Texas

When planting sod grass in Texas, it is important to get a hearty variety.

In Texas, sod grass for lawns not only has to withstand the high heat of summer but prolonged dry spells and even winter temperatures that can dip below freezing. Because of the humid climate, the sod also must be resistant to pests that thrive in humidity. Some of the best sods for Texas are dormant during periods of drought and in the winter. These same sods turn green quickly with water and warmer temperatures.

St. Augustine Grass

A popular grass for Texas lawns is St. Augustine grass, which grows through long runners that spread easily and quickly. The three best varieties for Texas are Floratam, Seville and Raleigh. However, Floratam and Raleigh are not cold tolerant and should be grown in southern Texas or along the coast. In the northern areas of the state, Seville will grow well. St. Augustine tolerates the partial shade but grows best in full sun. St. Augustine grass tolerates cold and drought. It will become dormant and turn brown after a few frosts, but in the spring, it is quick to revive. Optimally, St. Augustine grass requires about 3/4 inch of water a week to continue growing.

Zoysia Grass

For a fine-bladed, soft carpet of grass, zoysia is a good choice. Like the St. Augustine grass, zoysia requires only 3/4 inch of water per week to keep it healthy. In Texas, the zoysia varieties that do well are Emerald, El Toro, Meyer and Jamur. During dry periods zoysia goes dormant and turns brown after the first frosts of winter. Zoysia easily becomes green again in spring. For shady lawns, zoysia is also a good choice.

Buffalo Grass

Buffalo grass is a species that is native to Texas and thrives in full sun. In order to stay green, buffalo grass needs about an inch of water per week. This grass goes dormant during dry periods and in the winter. The grass is quick to turn green again after it receives water. Buffalo grass does not do well in the shade. For high traffic areas, buffalo grass is a poor choice. However, Buffalo grass will grow in areas that other sod grasses will not, such as in heavy clay soils. For Texas, Stampede, Prairie and 609 are good varieties of buffalo grass.

Bermuda Grass

A natural choice for lawns in Texas, Bermuda grass grows best in full sun. Even with only a half inch of water per week, Bermuda grass stays green throughout the summer. The common Bermuda and the hybrid Bermuda are both resistant to pests and stand up to traffic well.

References

• Garden Guides: Your Guide to Everything Gardening
• American-Lawns: Types of Grasses Found in North America
• Real Green Lawns: Lawn Care Austin