Lawn Care Experts

At JT’s Landscaping, lawn care isn’t just a chore, it is a science. Turfgrass varies widely across Raleigh properties and each lawn requires a custom care plan to help it thrive. We closely study and observe your turf in order to create a specialized maintenance and lawn management plan that will allow your landscape to reach its full potential.

Important lawn care factors include:

  • Moisture
  • Proper nutrient management
  • Fertilization and weed control
  • Fungus management
  • Lime application
  • Soil balance and conditions
  • Aeration
  • Dethatching
  • Seeding

We make sure that all these different variables work in harmony so that you can enjoy the best-looking grass on the block.

An Intelligent Approach to Lawn Management

We believe that the fewer herbicides and pesticides that are used on your lawn, the better. All of our landscaping applicators are certified in turf management and pesticide application. This educational background allows them to design a strict Integrated Pest Management (IPM) schedule that actively monitors the turf and only uses pesticides as a last resort to control insects, fungus or weeds.

In North Carolina, pests and drought are the two leading causes of plant failure. We will help you manage moisture through irrigation and generate a strategic approach to pest management. With the right approach to lawn management, you can protect your landscaping investment and avoid having to remove or replace expensive trees or shrubs.

After each lawn service visit, a JT’s landscaping applicator will provide you with a list of observations and recommendations. By adjusting mowing height, watering practices and other factors, we can limit the need for pesticides and provide you with a healthy, beautiful lawn.

The Best Grass Type for Your Raleigh Lawn

Creating a healthy, lush and beautiful lawn begins with planting the right type of grass. Different varieties of grass have different requirements when it comes to drainage, sun, nutrients and other factors. At JT’s Landscaping, we can help you choose and plant the ideal type of grass that will thrive in your particular environment.

North Carolina is comprised of three distinct regions: the coastal plain, piedmont and mountains. The same grass that grows in the colder mountain climate might not do as well in the sandy soil and warmer temperatures of other areas of the state. That is why it is important to understand the difference between warm-season and cool-season grasses and choose the right type for your home.

In general, cool-season grasses do best in temperatures that stay between 65 to 75 degrees while warm-season grasses prefer temperatures ranging between 85 to 95 degrees. There are also many different varieties of grasses that fall under each of these categories, so it is always a good idea to consult with a professional before investing in planting your lawn.

Keep reading for a brief overview of recommended grass varieties based on region:

Mountain Grasses  

The mountains of North Carolina represent a truly unique climate. There can be large temperature fluctuations based on elevation and some areas receive enough regular rainfall to be classified as rainforests. At the same time, the mountains also influence weather patterns and lead to exceedingly dry areas. This means that each homeowner needs to understand the demands of their particular area of the mountains and choose the right grass accordingly. Here are a few common grasses that are often planted in the mountain region:

Fine fescue is a resilient grass that does well in rocky, sandy and clay-like soil conditions that are usually too challenging for other grasses. It also tolerates the cold and shade well although it can take on a thatchy appearance, especially when it goes dormant.

Kentucky bluegrass is defined by its boat shaped leaf tip and is perfect for cooler parts of the United States that also experience high humidity. The grass results in a dense lawn that produces new growths in the spring and late summer and the best maintenance plan is to keep it cut to around 3.5 inches.

Tall fescue is a truly versatile grass that is best in areas of the mountain where there is a combination of cool weather throughout most of the year and hot summers. The grass is heat tolerant, so it will do well during summer heat waves and it is a low-maintenance so you don’t have to worry about constantly mowing, aerating and fertilizing.

Perennial ryegrass is the world’s most popular cool-season grass and with good reason. The healthy root system takes hold quickly and naturally produces lots of nutrients, so you don’t have to worry about supplementing your lawn. It also boasts a long growing season and can thrive in areas that are considered too wet for other grasses.

Piedmont Grasses

Those who live in the Piedmont will be able to choose from both cool-season and warm-season grasses. The trick is to find the right variety for your soil and drainage conditions. Here are a few warm-season grasses that may be perfect for your Piedmont area home:

Bermuda grass is commonly found in the Southwest where there are high temperatures and little moisture. Its shallow root system allows it to grow in locations with hard soil. Overall, it is one of the toughest grasses available and will withstand plenty of foot traffic and resist weeds for a low-maintenance lawn.

Centipede is another low-maintenance warm-season grass that requires little mowing and maintenance. It can thrive on low levels of nutrients and is perfect for sandy soil conditions. If you have a yard that receives plenty of direct sun, centipede grass might be the right choice for you.

Zoysia grass actually originates from Asia. While it turns dormant as soon as the cold weather hits, it is also the first to turn green again once warm weather returns in the spring. It features smooth blades with points.

St. Augustine grass is ideal for warm Piedmont locations that receive plenty of rain. While this grass is popular, it can be more temperamental than other varieties. It doesn’t hold up as well against heavy foot traffic and it requires a specific soil pH balance.

Tall Fescue is generally considered a cool-season grass, but it is resistant to both hot and cold temperatures, making it a solid choice for the Piedmont area. It consists of dark green, think blades that provide a rich color. Typically, it is mixed in with other lawn seeds to make a more weather resistant lawn, but can also be planted on its own.

Coast Plain Grasses

The Coastal Plain region of North Carolina experiences consistently warmer temperature throughout the year, making warm-season grasses the ideal choice. Fortunately, there are many grasses that fall under this category and will provide a lush and beautiful lawn.

Bermuda grass grows well in other parts of the state and is particularly well suited to the coastal plains because it is tolerant to high temperatures and drought. Lawns made primarily of Bermuda grass should be mowed often and kept to a low height. This can tend to require more maintenance, but also provides a thick, green lawn.

Centipedegrass is a more low-maintenance option that also thrives along the coastal regions. It can withstand full sun and partial share and grows in a lighter “apple” green color. While you won’t have to mow it as often, it doesn’t stand up to constant foot traffic as well as other options, so keep that in mind.

St. Augustine grass is especially well suited to the coastal plains of North Carolina. It is a fast growing grass with coarse, thick leaves that aren’t bothered by salt. While St. Augustine grass is used in other parts of the state, it is not as cold tolerant as other varieties, making it a good choice for coastal properties.

To get expert advice on choosing the perfect grass for your Raleigh area home according to your specific soil and drainage conditions, contact JT’s Landscaping today. We will help you find the perfect grass to fit your yard and accommodate your maintenance preferences. With the right grass variety, you can enjoy a beautiful lawn that continues to thrive year-round.

To get expert advice on choosing the perfect grass for your Raleigh area home according to your specific soil and drainage conditions, contact JT’s Landscaping today. We will help you find the perfect grass to fit your yard and accommodate your maintenance preferences. With the right grass variety, you can enjoy a beautiful lawn that continues to thrive year-round.

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