Lawn Challenges in Coastal Areas
Living near the coast has its perks: breezes, views, and that salty air. But when it comes to lawn care, that same salt and moisture can create serious challenges. Here's what coastal homeowners need to watch for:
1. Salt Stress on Grass
Salt from ocean air, soil, or water can dehydrate your lawn by pulling moisture away from the grass roots. This leads to yellowing, thinning, and patchy turf.
Tip: Use salt-tolerant grasses like seashore paspalum or zoysia, and rinse your lawn with fresh water after storms or heavy sea spray.
2. Sandy, Poor Soil
Coastal soil is often sandy, which means it drains quickly and doesn’t retain nutrients well. That makes regular feeding and composting essential.
Tip: Top-dress with compost or organic matter to boost water retention and soil health.
3. Wind and Drought Exposure
Salt-laden winds dry out turf faster, especially during summer. Combine that with fast-draining soil, and your lawn may dry out more than you think.
Tip: Water deeply and infrequently, and create windbreaks with shrubs or fencing where possible.
4. High Humidity = More Disease
Coastal humidity can encourage fungal issues like dollar spot or brown patch, especially if grass stays wet overnight.
Tip: Mow in the morning, improve airflow, and avoid overwatering. Fungicide may be needed in extreme cases.
Lawn care near the coast requires a bit more attention, but with the right practices and grass types, your yard can thrive even in salty, sandy, windy conditions.
Sources
University of Florida: Salt-Tolerant Lawngrasses
Golf Course Lawn Store: Coastal Lawn Care Tips
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