Updated November 2, 2026 · Reviewed by an experienced Uniform landscaping professional before publication. Local rules change; check the linked sources for current requirements.
Choosing a grass
Common warm-season lawn grasses in Southwest Florida differ in shade tolerance, salt tolerance, wear, water needs and maintenance. The best choice depends on your site. See UF/IFAS Extension publications for current lawn guidance.
| Site question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| How much sun? | Some grasses thin out in shade from trees and buildings. |
| Salt exposure? | Waterfront and canal lots need more salt tolerance. |
| Foot traffic and pets? | Wear tolerance and recovery vary. |
| Irrigation coverage? | New sod needs even coverage to root. |
| HOA requirements? | Some communities specify grass type. |
Preparation
Removing old turf and weeds, correcting grade and preparing the soil matter more than the sod itself. Skipping them is the most common reason new sod fails.
Aftercare plan
- Watering frequency for the first weeks, checked against current rules
- When and how high to mow the first time
- What to avoid: heavy traffic, fertilizer too early
- Signs of trouble: gaps at seams, yellowing, dry edges
Your aftercare plan should be written for your site, not copied from a generic schedule. See watering rules.