Olathe, which is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area, is a unique place to live and visit. Even though Olathe is far from the ocean, it has more fountains than any city except Rome. Not surprisingly, its nickname is "City of Fountains." Kansas City also has more barbecue restaurants than any city in the US. With more than 220 parks and over 130 miles of trails, it's also a great place to get outside and explore. As a homeowner in the city, you can celebrate the city's love of outdoor activities right in your yard by creating a healthy, flourishing lawn.
Top Missouri Grasses
Establishing an attractive lawn in Missouri first requires knowing what kind of grass to grow. Luckily, there are many high-quality grasses designed for the Missouri climate that require minimal maintenance and watering.
- Big Bluestem
- Kentucky Bluegrass
- Johnson Grass
- Sideoats Gramma
- Fowlmanna
Big bluestem, notes Washington University, appears throughout Missouri. Versatile, hardy, and attractive, it features long straight stems, wide blades, and spiked flower heads. The grass also produces flowers in late summer and early fall. Big bluestem can reach six feet or more.
Kentucky bluegrass grows up to three feet. It is a tall prairie grass that flowers in May and June. Kentucky bluegrass is a popular choice for its hardiness, low maintenance, and aesthetics. The grass is an appealing blue-green color that adds character to your property.
Johnson grass is technically native to parts of Europe and the Middle East. However, it has been successfully introduced to the US, too. It is a hardy species that can grow in seemingly unlikely locations such as irrigation ditches, roadsides, and cracks in pavement or sidewalks. Its leaf blades reach up to two feet, and its seeds range in color from yellow to purple.
Sideoats gramma has been used across the US to restore prairies, fields, and meadows, says the USDA. Sideoats gramma is attractive any time of the year, which makes it a popular choice for ornamental grass. However, it becomes especially magnificent during the summer when it produces small white flowers. The grass's name is inspired by its seed spikes that have an oat-like appearance.
Fowlmanna is native to Missouri, but its range extends far beyond the state's borders, too. Fowlmanna grows anywhere from Canada to Mexico and throughout much of the US. It reaches a height between one and four feet fully grown. Fowlmanna thrives in the sun and partial shade in a variety of soils. Fowlmanna prefers regular watering and does well near streams and ponds.
After learning about the best types of grasses you can grow in Missouri, it's time to start getting your lawn in top shape. You can try planting seeds on your own, or you can contact your local lawn care experts at Lawn Love for help. We can also help with other aspects of lawn care, including weed prevention and proper care.
Attractions in Olathe
Once you've got your yard off to a good start for the year, you are free to relax and enjoy Olathe's best attractions. Indoors or outside, here are some top places to check out.
Ernie Miller Park and Nature Center
This peaceful park covers over 100 acres of land. Streams, forests, and fields dominate its picturesque landscape. There are several walking trails in the park, and there is also a nature center where you can learn about the park's plants, wildlife, and ecosystem.
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art
On a rainy day, or anytime you're in the mood to see great artwork, be sure to check out the exhibits at the Nerman Museum. The art museum, which is affiliated with the local community college, also has an auditorium for lectures, classrooms for art instruction, and a cafe that serves snacks and beverages.
Mahaffie Stagecoach Farm
Step back in time at the Mahaffie Stagecoach farm, where antiques and relics from the 19th century remind you of Olathe's agricultural and rural roots. The farm also contains a living history museum.
Olathe is a special place full of history and unique sites. Outdoor living is very much part of the city's culture, as evidenced by its number of parks and natural areas. To make your own property worthy of endless outdoor enjoyment, don't hesitate to contact Lawn Love for your lawn care needs.
