Science · Turfgrasses
St. Augustine
Broad-bladed stoloniferous lawn grass with useful shade adaptation in warm climates.
Stenotaphrum secundatum · Warm-season coarse-textured turfgrass
Profile
- Spread
- Stolons, not substantial rhizome recovery
- Shade
- Tolerance varies by cultivar and light level
- Cold
- Winter injury limits northern use
- Mowing
- Requires taller cutting than fine bermuda greens
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; measure field capacity and dry-down
- Salinity tolerance
- Moderate to good; cultivar dependent
- Drought tolerance
- Moderate; shallow rooting worsens drought response
Optimal root measurement depth
3–6 in
Warm-season turf roots concentrate here at fairway and sports heights of cut. Typical guidance; confirm with a soil probe on site.
Calibrate sensors in the actual root zone; account for mowing, rooting depth, seasonal growth and drainage before adjusting irrigation.
Problems to watch
- Southern chinch bugs
- Large patch
- Gray leaf spot
Stress signs
- Expanding dry-looking patches
- Circular cool-season lesions
- Leaf spotting
Where you'll find it
- Warm-climate lawns
- Partly shaded landscapes
More turfgrasses
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.