Grass plugs are small, actively growing starter plants, typically grown in trays, that include established roots and a small amount of soil. They offer a middle ground between planting grass seed and installing expensive sod. Plugs are often chosen for establishing specific turf types, especially warm-season varieties like St. Augustine grass, which may not be available as viable seed. Since plugs already possess a developed root system, they establish themselves more quickly than seed, reducing the risk of soil erosion and suppressing weed competition. This method is also a cost-effective solution for repairing small, damaged areas compared to the higher expense of sod.
Selecting the Right Grass Variety
The most important step before purchasing is to select a variety that will thrive in your specific environment. Grasses are broadly categorized into warm-season and cool-season types, corresponding directly to your geographic climate zone. Warm-season grasses, including Zoysia, Bermuda, and St. Augustine, prefer temperatures above 80°F and suit Southern regions. Cool-season varieties like Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are better adapted to cooler climates.
Beyond climate, you must evaluate the specific conditions of your planting site, including the soil type and sun exposure. Some grasses prefer sandy soil, while others, like Tall Fescue, perform better in heavier clay soils. Testing your soil’s pH level is also helpful, as certain species like Centipedegrass thrive in acidic soil, while others prefer a more neutral range.
Sunlight is a major limiting factor, as different grass types have varying tolerance levels for shade. Bermuda grass and many Zoysia varieties require full, direct sunlight for most of the day to grow densely. Conversely, St. Augustine grass and some Fescue varieties tolerate more shaded conditions. Selecting a type that aligns with your yard’s conditions ensures a healthier, more resilient lawn.
Primary Sources for Purchasing Plugs
There are three primary avenues for purchasing grass plugs, each offering distinct benefits and drawbacks. Online specialty retailers provide the broadest selection, frequently carrying unique cultivars or rare varieties that are hard to find elsewhere. These plugs are shipped directly from the grower, ensuring they are fresh and well-rooted. However, this convenience often comes with significant shipping costs.
Local nurseries and garden centers offer expert advice from staff who understand the specific soil and climate conditions of your region. You have the opportunity to physically inspect the plants before purchase, and these local sources often carry larger, more mature plugs. However, their inventory is typically limited to the most common, locally adapted grass types. The price per plug may also be higher than other sources.
Big box home improvement stores are the most convenient option, providing immediate availability and lower prices due to their bulk purchasing power. However, the quality of the plugs at these locations can fluctuate significantly, as they may receive less dedicated horticultural care. Selection is usually restricted to a few popular varieties. Furthermore, the staff may not possess the specialized knowledge to offer detailed guidance on turfgrass care.
Key Considerations Before Placing an Order
An accurate calculation of the quantity needed is necessary to avoid over- or under-purchasing. A common spacing recommendation for many varieties, such as Zoysia, is 12 inches center-to-center. For faster establishment, reducing this spacing to 6 inches means you will need four times as many plugs for the same area.
Timing the purchase to align with the optimal planting window is crucial for successful establishment. Warm-season grasses should be planted when soil temperatures consistently reach a range between 65°F and 70°F. Planting during this time allows the plugs to leverage the grass’s natural growth cycle, establishing a robust root system before seasonal dormancy.
When your order arrives, a quick quality inspection can identify potential issues that need immediate attention. A healthy plug should have a vibrant green color and a dense root system filling the liner cell. The soil media should be moist but not saturated. Signs of dryness or yellowing indicate the plug has experienced stress during transit.
For online orders, confirm that the delivery date aligns with your planting schedule, as plugs should be planted as soon as possible after arrival. Online retailers typically ship early in the week to prevent live plants from being held in a dark warehouse over a weekend. If the plants arrive flattened from packaging, they usually recover within a couple of days. Recovery occurs once they are placed back into sunlight and watered.