Good Sod for Central Texas

Types

• The Texas A&M University Extension Service in Fayette County recommends four grasses for Central Texas: zoysia grass, buffalo grass, Bermuda grass or St. Augustine grass. These may be planted as sprigs or rolls of sod, the latter costing more.

Considerations

• Each grass type carries pros and cons. If you lack irrigation and won't walk heavily on the lawn, choose buffalo grass. If you have irrigation, prefer thick lawns and possess resources for lots of maintenance, St. Augustine grass is best. Zoysia grass makes a better choice for residential properties than Bermuda grass, which is popular for golf courses and athletic fields.

Benefits

• With a topsoil layer at least 6 inches deep, laying sod creates an instant lawn. There's less concern of weeds initially and hillside erosion concerns quickly diminish.

Establishment

• Once sod pieces are laid, water the soil to a 4-inch depth and maintain an evenly moist soil. These warm-season grasses grow best when temperatures remain above 65 degrees Fahrenheit, from late spring to early fall -- the ideal time to install and establish.