Turf Wars: St. Augustine

The Horticulturati

On this episode, we’re sinking our toes into St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum), icon of the Texas lawn from Hank Hill’s house to the State Capitol grounds. Millions of acres of prime farmland and front yards are dedicated to this non-edible crop. St. Augustine is so ubiquitous in our landscape it’s almost invisible. But what paradoxes are hiding in plain sight? This coastal pioneer species, which grows on all continents except Antarctica, would seem to be an evolutionary success story. Why is it so plagued with weeds, diseases and pests? Its seeds likely floated on ocean currents to take root across the globe. Yet in its modern form, it can’t be grown from seed at all. And despite being a host plant for numerous pollinators in its native range, it offers very little ecological value in manicured lawns. Why won’t it grow under trees? WHAT IS IT FOR? Listen in for our totally unbiased opinions.

First up, a special announcement! Colleen is writing a book about seed saving!

Mentioned in this episode:

“St. Augustine” by Richard L. Duble, Turfgrass Specialist, Texas Cooperative Extension; Diploids and triploids; “The biology of Stenotaphrum secundatum” by The Australian Government Department of Health; Houston Grass, YouTube; Becky Grubbs Bowling’s talk, “Can Trees and Turf Coexist?” at the 2022 ISA Texas Trees Conference; Cobalt St. Augustine; Atrazine; Shade Friendly Wildflower Mix from Native American Seed.