Lawn Care Guide for Wilson County
Wilson County, Kansas
Data Story
About Lawn Care in Wilson County, Kansas
Wilson County’s Warm-Season Lawn Advantage
A score of 65.0 indicates that lawns are significantly easier to maintain here than in most of the country. As a hardiness zone 7a region, it enjoys a milder climate that supports a wider variety of grass species.
Abundant Rainfall and Long Growing Seasons
With 42.5 inches of annual rain, Wilson County receives nearly double the water of its western neighbors. The high 4,353 growing degree days signal a very active growing season for both warm and cool-season turfs.
Optimal pH and High Clay Retention
The soil pH of 6.24 is ideal for grass health and disease resistance. While specific texture data is limited, the 26.7% clay content is great for holding onto the county's plentiful rainwater.
Monitoring Dry Surface Conditions
The county is currently 100% abnormally dry, despite only 15 weeks of drought in the past year. Since the heat can be intense, focus on morning watering to minimize evaporation and keep the soil temperature stable.
Warm-Season Success in Zone 7a
Bermuda and Zoysia thrive in this warmer zone, providing a thick, carpet-like lawn. You can start your lawn earlier than most, as the last spring frost typically occurs by April 12th.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Recommended Grasses
Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea
Bermudagrass
Cynodon dactylon
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
42.5"
Growing Degree Days
4,352.9
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
04/12
First Fall Frost
10/26
Days Above 95F
54
Hardiness Zone
7a
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
0.5"
inches of water
Monthly Water
1,410
gallons
Estimated Monthly Cost
$11.28
at $0.008/gallon average
Estimates based on 43" annual precipitation and estimated evapotranspiration. Actual costs vary by local water rates.
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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