St Augustine Grass: A complete guide

If you’re looking for a thick, lush, and carpet-like lawn that thrives in warm climates, St. Augustine grass might be the perfect choice for you. Popular across the southern United States—especially in coastal areas like Florida, Texas, and the Gulf Coast—this turfgrass is known for its vibrant green color, dense growth, and ability to tolerate heat and humidity.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about St. Augustine grass, including its characteristics, benefits, care tips, common problems, and how to establish and maintain a healthy St. Augustine lawn.

What Is St. Augustine Grass?

St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) is a warm-season turfgrass that grows best in tropical and subtropical climates. It features broad, flat blades and a blue-green to dark green color. This grass spreads through above-ground stolons (runners), creating a dense mat that helps suppress weeds and provides excellent ground coverage.

Key Characteristics

• Climate: Warm-season; thrives in USDA zones 8–10

• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade (needs at least 4–6 hours of sun daily)

• Texture: Coarse and broad-leafed

• Color: Medium to dark green

• Growth Habit: Spreads via stolons; fast-growing

• Tolerance: Moderate shade, good salt tolerance, low wear tolerance

Benefits of St. Augustine Grass

• Rapid Establishment: Spreads quickly and fills in bare areas faster than many other warm-season grasses.

• Weed Resistance: Its dense growth chokes out many weeds naturally.

• Shade Tolerance: More tolerant of partial shade than Bermuda or Zoysia grass.

• Salt Tolerance: Performs well in coastal and salty soil environments.

• Lush Appearance: Offers a plush, vibrant lawn with a soft, barefoot-friendly feel.

Types of St. Augustine Grass

Several cultivars are available to suit different needs:

• Floratam: Most popular; excellent heat and drought tolerance, poor shade tolerance.

• Palmetto: More shade-tolerant and compact; ideal for residential lawns.

• Seville: Dwarf variety with fine texture and good shade tolerance.

• Delmar: Tolerates more shade but grows slower.

• Raleigh: Cold-tolerant, developed for the Carolinas and northern edges of warm zones.

How to Plant St. Augustine Grass

St. Augustine is usually established through sod, plugs, or sprigs—not seed, as viable seed is not commercially available.

Soil Preparation

• Test your soil’s pH (ideal range: 5.0–8.5)

• Clear weeds and debris

• Till and level the soil

• Add organic matter if needed

Installation

• Sod: Lay tight, staggered seams for instant coverage

• Plugs/Sprigs: Space 12–18 inches apart; water regularly to promote spread

Watering

• Water daily until roots establish (about 2–3 weeks)

• Transition to deeper, less frequent watering

Maintenance Tips

Mowing

• Mow to 2.5–4 inches

• Keep blades sharp to avoid tearing the grass

Watering

• Needs 1 inch of water per week (including rainfall)

• Water early in the mornin

Fertilizing

• Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and again in summer

• Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to thatch and disease

Aeration

• Aerate annually to reduce soil compaction and improve root growth

Weed Control

• Use pre-emergent herbicides in early spring

• Post-emergent spot treatments as needed

Common Problems

Chinch Bugs

• Tiny pests that suck the sap from grass blades

• Treat with insecticides labeled for St. Augustine grass

Brown Patch & Gray Leaf Spot

• Fungal diseases; avoid overwatering and use fungicide if needed

Thatch Build-up

• Caused by excess fertilization or poor mowing

• Dethatch with a rake or machine if necessary

Yellowing

• Often due to iron deficiency or overwatering

• Use chelated iron supplements and improve drainage

Is St. Augustine Grass Right for You?

Choose St. Augustine grass if:

• You live in a warm, humid climate

• You want a lawn that grows quickly and looks full

• You have partial shade and need something more tolerant than Bermuda grass

• You’re okay with moderate maintenance

Final Thoughts

St. Augustine grass is a standout choice for homeowners seeking a luxurious, green lawn that holds up well in Florida-style weather. While it requires proper care and attention, the reward is a stunning landscape that stays resilient in sun, salt, and seasonal changes.

If you’re in Southwest Florida and need help installing or maintaining your St. Augustine lawn, our landscaping team is just a call away. From lawn design to maintenance and irrigation, we’ll help you enjoy a greener, healthier yard year-round.

Need help with your lawn? Contact us for a free consultation and let’s bring your landscape to life with St. Augustine grass!