How to Plant St. Augustine Grass Plugs

St. Augustine grass is a popular choice for lawns and landscaping due to its thick, lush appearance and ability to tolerate heat and humid conditions. One way to establish a St. Augustine grass lawn is by planting grass plugs. Here's how to plant St. Augustine grass plugs in your yard.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting St. Augustine grass plugs, it's important to prepare the soil. Clear the area of weeds and other plant debris, then loosen the soil to a depth of at least six inches. A rototiller or garden fork can help make the task easier. Next, enrich the soil by adding organic matter such as compost, manure or peat moss. Mix it in well with the soil.

Choose the Plugs

You can purchase St. Augustine grass plugs from a garden center or nursery. The plugs consist of small portions of sod that contain roots and grass blades. Choose plugs that are healthy and look green. Plan to space the plugs about 12 inches apart for optimal coverage.

Plant the Plugs

Once you've prepared the soil and chosen the plugs, it's time to plant them. Use a hand-held bulb planter or bulb auger to make a hole in the soil where you want to place the plug. Insert one plug into each hole and gently press the sod into the soil. Repeat the process until you've placed all the plugs.

Water the Plugs

After planting the St. Augustine grass plugs, water them thoroughly. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist for the first few weeks until the grass is established. You may need to water the plugs regularly, depending on the weather conditions. Avoid overwatering the plugs, as this can cause root rot.

Care for the Plugs

To help the St. Augustine grass plugs become established, avoid mowing the grass for the first few weeks. Let the grass grow until it reaches a height of at least six inches. After the initial establishment period, mow the grass regularly to help prevent weeds and promote growth. Fertilize the grass with a high-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.

In conclusion, planting St. Augustine grass plugs can be an effective way to establish a lush, green lawn. By preparing the soil, choosing healthy plugs, and providing proper care, you can grow a beautiful, thriving lawn in no time. Happy planting!