Lawn Care Guide for Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area
Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, Alaska
Data Story
About Lawn Care in Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, Alaska
Managing a High-Rainfall Lawn
Prince of Wales-Hyder has a lawn difficulty score of 53.6, which is a few points below the Alaska state average. The primary challenge here is the sheer volume of water, which requires different tactics than the drier parts of the state.
Rainforest Conditions for Your Yard
With 104.9 inches of annual precipitation, this area is incredibly wet compared to the national ideal. The 760 growing degree days and mild January average of 34.4°F provide one of the more temperate climates in Alaska for grass growth.
Prioritizing Drainage in Wet Soil
Local soil metrics are not available, but the heavy rainfall typically results in acidic, saturated conditions. To succeed, incorporate plenty of sand and organic matter to improve drainage and prevent moss from overtaking your turf.
No Drought Concerns in Sight
The area currently has 0% drought coverage and has faced zero weeks of drought over the last year. Water conservation is rarely a priority here; instead, focus on preventing runoff and erosion during heavy downpours.
An Early Start for Southeast Alaska
A long growing season begins after the last frost on April 19 and lasts until October 31. Plant moisture-loving cool-season varieties in late April to take advantage of the 195-day window before the first fall frost.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
104.9"
Growing Degree Days
760.1
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
04/19
First Fall Frost
10/31
Days Above 95F
0
Hardiness Zone
N/A
Seeding Calendar — Zone 7A
Seasonal Lawn Care Checklist
Spring
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil reaches 55F
- Begin mowing when grass reaches 3 inches
- Start irrigation if rainfall is below 1 inch/week
- Soil test every 2-3 years — adjust lime or sulfur as needed
Summer
- Mow at recommended height weekly
- Water deeply 1-2 times per week (1 inch total)
- Avoid fertilizing cool-season grasses in peak heat
- Scout for grubs and treat if >10 per sq ft
Fall
- Overseed warm-season lawns if thinning
- Apply fall fertilizer (highest N application for cool-season)
- Continue mowing until growth stops
- Rake or mulch leaves to prevent smothering
Winter
- Apply pre-emergent for winter weeds
- Service mower and sharpen blades
- Plan spring soil amendments based on fall test
- Keep lawn clear of debris
Watering Deficit Calculator
Monthly Deficit
0.0"
inches of water
Monthly Water
0
gallons
Estimated Monthly Cost
$0.00
at $0.008/gallon average
Estimates based on 105" annual precipitation and estimated evapotranspiration. Actual costs vary by local water rates.
Common Lawn Problems in Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area
Excess Moisture & Fungal Disease
High annual rainfall (105 inches) increases risk of fungal diseases like brown patch and dollar spot. Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Learn more about regional lawn challenges at The Lawn Report.
Want detailed soil composition, drainage classes, and soil series data? View soil details on SoilByCounty.com
Data sourced from USDA SSURGO, NOAA Climate Normals (1991-2020), USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, and US Drought Monitor. Lawn difficulty scores and grass recommendations are estimates for informational purposes only.
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