Florida LAWNS 
AWNS are a vital part of any landscape picture. No matter how many fine plants are used in any 
planting, or how pretentious the house may be, the effect is lost without a good lawn. A beautiful 
carpet of rich green grass is the indispensable final touch. 
Since the lawn is a permanent part of the landscape, it is essential that time be taken to grade the sur- 
face carefully and to prepare the soil properly before the stolons are set. Since the soils of Florida are so 
sandy, the wise lawn-maker insures the best possible soil by the addition of 3 to 4 inches of peat, which is 
best spaded and cut into the ground. Not only does the peat add some food to the soil but it also improves 
its ability to hold moisture. Another advantage is that the built-up soil can hold fertilizer and prevent it 
from leaching out before the grass roots can pick it up. After the soil is prepared, it should be watered 
well and rolled to make a compact planting surface. 
The grass stolons should be planted in rows about 6 inches apart and 4 inches apart in the row. One 
bushel of stolons should plant 400 to 500 square feet of lawn surface. As soon as they begin to grow, a 
second application of good fertilizer should be applied, and plenty of water should be given at all times. 
With reasonably good care, the area should be covered with grass in sixty to ninety days. During the 
period of growth, weeds and foreign grasses should be kept out. 
LAWN GRASSES 
CENTIPEDE GRASS (Eremochloa ophiuroides). A  drought- ST. AUGUSTINE GRASS (Stenotaphrum secundatum). Bitter 
blue stem. Leaves are broad and easily clipped. Requires less mow- 
resistant grass with fine foliage, creeping close to the soil. One of the I : are bro | 
ing, watering, and fertilizing than any other lawn grass. Somewhat 
lawn grasses most used in this sectio Needs very little care once : : : : 
a ag 3 t used this sect a: : ; ) 5 E resistant to chinch bug. Remains green the entire year. May be 
it is established and does not require mowing so often. Makes a grown close to salt water. 
thick cushiony sod. 
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