Get matched with top lawn care pros in Penasco, NM

Carpetgrass is distinguishable by its pale green to yellowish color and coarse appearance that grows well under shady conditions in poor and compact soils. If it grows uncontrolled, it tends to develop a hairy seedhead, giving patches of grass a messy appearance. If carpetgrass is regularly cut, it looks very similar to centipedegrass and St. Augustine grass, and people may confuse them. Carpetgrass blades are flat and rounded at the tip. Note that the grass only typically grows as a weed in Southern states.

Depending on the local climate and time of year, you only need to water your lawn by hand once or twice a week. It takes about 25 to 30 minutes with a hose and/or watering can. It doesn't require any electricity or complex irrigation systems and provides some exercise and time outdoors for free. You can also go for longer between waterings during rainy times.

If your lawn and general landscape are struggling, consider calling a local landscape specialist to suggest lawn amendments, local plants, and hardscape changes to boost the long-term health of your outdoor space. While you may be able to take on small projects yourself—such as reseeding your lawn or testing the soil—a professional can help you build a plan to bring a struggling yard back to life quickly.

Water your yard a little more deeply after a drought for about two weeks (while still avoiding overwatering). Continue to water in the early morning hours before 10 a.m. You'll also want to invest in some high-quality fertilizer to get more nutrients to your roots and help them grow back stronger and quicker. Look up your grass and soil type, or do a soil test, to see what type of fertilizer you need.