St. Augustine Grass: The Ultimate Guide for Southern Lawns

Why St. Augustine Grass Thrives in the South

St. Augustine grass is a top choice for sandy soils across the lower South. While it's common from Macon to Atlanta, north of Atlanta it risks cold injury in most winters. Despite lower cold tolerance than other warm-season grasses, it stays green longer into fall and often remains green in protected areas through winter.

Key Characteristics

• Color & Texture: Emerald green, coarse texture, feels slightly spongy underfoot.
• Mowing Height: 2–3 inches.
• Light Needs: Full sun to partial shade—excellent shade tolerance.

Planting St. Augustine Grass

Seed is unavailable; establish via sod or plugs from late spring through early fall. For plugs, plant 3×3-inch pieces 12 inches apart in spring—they'll knit together by fall. Sod installation: clear weeds, till soil, rake smooth, lay pieces in a brick pattern, and water thoroughly.

Fertilization & Maintenance

Apply slow-release turf fertilizer at green-up in spring, then again in June, July, and September. In northern areas, winter injury is the primary concern—centers of lawns may die while sheltered areas survive.

Common Pests & Diseases

• Chinch bugs: Chew foliage and spread disease. Test by floating a can of water in the lawn—bugs rise to the surface. Contact your Extension office for controls.
• St. Augustine Decline (SAD) virus: Some varieties offer resistance.

Recommended Varieties

• 'Floratam': Resistant to chinch bugs and SAD.
• 'Bitterblue': Good cold and shade tolerance, but susceptible to chinch bugs and gray leaf spot.
• 'Raleigh': Improved cold tolerance.
• 'Seville': Dark green, semi-dwarf with fine leaf texture.

Seedhead