How to Plant St. Augustine Grass

Overview

St. Augustine grass is a popular landscaping choice for homes throughout the southern United States. A handful of varieties are available to choose from though all produce thick, lush lawns. St. Augustine grass does well in warm environments with heavy rainfall because it requires a lot of water to grow. It does not tolerate cold well. Growing St. Augustine grass from plugs is an affordable way to start your lawn.

Step 1

Water your lawn thoroughly. Planting grass plugs is less work when the soil is moist and easy to work with.

Step 2

Use a plugger to dig holes in a checkerboard pattern. Pluggers are available from your retailer and are generally inexpensive. If you don't have a plugger, use a hand shovel to dig a hole slightly larger than the size of the plug.

Step 3

Place one scoop of starter fertilizer in each hole. Starter fertilizers are specially formulated for root growth of grass plugs.

Step 4

Plant the plugs. Firmly tap on the soil around the plugs to eliminate any air pockets. The closer the plugs are planted, the quicker they will grow together and fill in your lawn.

Step 5

Water the plugs. Soak the area around your plugs with water. Continue to water your plugs every day for 7 to 10 days until roots are firmly established.

Step 6

Fertilize monthly. Once roots are established, and the grass has started putting out new growth, it is safe to apply a grass fertilizer every month.