Caring for Shaded Lawns in Houston, TX
Shaded lawns in Houston are a different game. Here is how to give them their best shot.
Overview
Mature trees are a big part of why Houston neighborhoods look the way they do. They are also why most Houston lawns have at least one stubborn shade-thinned zone.
Pick the right turf
St. Augustine "Palmetto" and "Sapphire" handle shade better than common St. Augustine. Bermuda will not survive heavy shade no matter what you do.
Mow shaded zones higher
Shaded grass needs more leaf surface to photosynthesize. Cut shaded zones a half-inch higher than sunny zones — it makes a real difference.
Reduce traffic and watering
Shaded zones stay wetter longer. Cut watering in those zones by half and route foot traffic around them when possible.
Consider a canopy thin
A professional crown thin lets dappled light through to the lawn without losing the tree's character. It is often the missing piece for chronic shade thinning in Houston.
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Local resources for Houston, TX
Helpful authoritative resources for Houston, TX residents and property owners.