Lawn Maintenance Tips for South Carolina Homeowners

Maintaining a lush lawn in South Carolina means understanding your climate and grass type. With hot summers and mild winters, most homeowners benefit from warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Centipede, and Zoysia. These varieties thrive in the state’s heat but require thoughtful care to stay green and weed-free.

Mowing is critical. During the growing season—typically March to October—mow regularly and avoid cutting more than a third of the grass blade at a time. Keeping mower blades sharp ensures a clean cut and reduces stress on the lawn.

Watering should be deep and infrequent. Most lawns need about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. Morning watering is best to minimize evaporation and reduce disease risk.

Fertilization depends on the grass type. Centipede grass needs minimal nitrogen, while Bermuda loves it. Fertilize in late spring and again in midsummer, but avoid fall applications to prevent cold damage.

Weed control starts early. Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in February or March to stop crabgrass and other invasive weeds before they sprout. Keeping the lawn thick and healthy is the best defense.

Don’t forget to aerate clay-heavy soils in spring and dethatch every few years to maintain proper airflow and drainage. These small steps can make a big difference in overall lawn health.