Unlock the secret to a thriving South Texas lawn with these best grasses for South Texas. Our all-star lineup features buffalograss, the eco-friendly Texas native; Bermudagrass, the high-traffic champion; and Zoysiagrass, the moderate-maintenance beauty.
Explore these five best grass types to find your perfect match.
If you’re looking for more turfgrass options for Texas, check out our guides:
Buffalograss: Best for eco-friendly lawns
Buffalograss, a native Texas grass species, is popular for its drought-tolerant, heat-resistant, low-maintenance, and native nature. It supports local ecosystems and is less susceptible to common lawn pests. However, establishing a full, mature lawn may take longer, and although it does well in dry areas like South Texas, it requires irrigation during summer to stay green.
Plant in late spring to early summer to grow a buffalograss lawn in South Texas. For more tips on how to establish a successful buffalograss lawn, see our guide: “Buffalograss: How to Grow and Care for It.”
Grass Seed Options:
– Everwilde Farms Buffalograss Seeds (1 lb. of seeds)
St. Augustinegrass: Best for salt and shade
A popular South Texas lawn choice, St. Augustinegrass is renowned for its tolerance of salt and partial shade. This grass thrives in hot, humid conditions and adapts well to soils ranging from sandy to clay. St. Augustine requires regular watering, especially during dry spells.
Though susceptible to chinch bugs, with proper care, St. Augustine is an excellent fit for South Texas lawns. It is well adapted as far west as Medina County, and from there, southward to the southern border and eastward to the Gulf Coast.
For more details on maintaining St. Augustinegrass, check out our St. Augustinegrass maintenance calendar for Texas.
Grass Plug Options:
– Seed Ranch St Augustine Seville Grass Plugs (2 Trays)
– Seed Ranch St Augustine Floratam Grass Plugs (2 Trays)
Bermudagrass: Best for high-traffic and full sun
Because of its high tolerance for foot activity and ability to withstand hot, dry weather, Bermudagrass is a common pick for South Texas lawns. It grows a thick turf and bounces back fast from damage. Many homeowners like Bermudagrass for its endurance in harsh climates, and ability to choke out weeds. It does need full sun and can be invasive.
Keep your Bermudagrass thriving with our Bermudagrass maintenance calendar for Texas.
Grass Seed Options:
– Scotts Turf Builder Bermudagrass (10-lb. bag)
– Hancock Seed Co. Bermudagrass (50-lb. bag)
Zoysiagrass: Best moderate-maintenance grass
Zoysiagrass is an excellent choice for South Texas lawns: It withstands drought, resists wear, and requires only moderate maintenance. These qualities, along with its resilience and visual appeal, make it popular for both residential lawns and golf courses. While it goes dormant in winter, its benefits often outweigh this small disadvantage for many South Texas homeowners.
For Zoysiagrass care tips, visit our Zoysiagrass maintenance calendar for Texas.
Grass Plug and Seed Options:
– Zoysia Plugs (50 Large Grass Plugs)
– Zoysia Plugs (50 Full & Lush Grass Plugs)
– Zoysia Plugs (100 Plugs)
– Zoysia Emerald Grass Seeds (1/8 lb. of seeds)
– Zenith Zenith Grass Seeds (1/8 lb. of seeds
Seashore paspalum: Best for coastal homes
Seashore paspalum is a popular choice for Gulf Coast lawns due to its salt tolerance. Ideal for golf courses, seaside homes, and upscale lawns, this high-maintenance grass thrives in hot areas. Its fast establishment, resilience to heavy use, and thick roots make it a popular choice for erosion control in areas with storm surge flooding.
For these reasons, seashore paspalum is well-suited for lawns in cities like Corpus Christi, Houston, and Galveston.
Grass Seed and Sod Options:
Seed Ranch SeaShore Paspalum Coated Grass Seed – 1 lb.
Seed World SeaShore Paspalum Grass Seeds (various amounts)
Other places to purchase seashore paspalum sod
What to read next
After selecting the ideal grass type, proper maintenance becomes crucial for a thriving lawn. Here are some key care tips to keep your South Texas lawn healthy:
- When to Aerate Your Lawn in Texas
- When to Dethatch Your Lawn in Texas
- When to Fertilize Your Lawn in South Texas
- The Most Common South Texas Weeds
- The Best Lawn Fertilizers for Texas
For more in-depth lawn care guidance, check out our additional guides:
When to call a pro
With the right grass type and proper care, you can enjoy a beautiful, resilient lawn that thrives in the South Texas climate. If lawn maintenance seems daunting, don’t hesitate to hire a pro. Lawn Love offers free quotes from local lawn care pros in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and across South Texas. They can help you keep your lawn the talk of the neighborhood.
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Main Image Credit: Wofford-Finney House, Cuero, Texas | 25or6to4 | Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 3.0
