Lawn Care Guide for Tyrrell County
Tyrrell County, North Carolina
Data Story
About Lawn Care in Tyrrell County, North Carolina
Coastal Conditions Create a Tough Lawn Challenge
Tyrrell County presents a significant challenge for homeowners with a lawn difficulty score of 33.5, which is notably lower than the national median of 50.0. Its coastal Hardiness Zone 8b provides plenty of warmth, but residents find it more difficult to maintain green space here than in many other parts of the state.
High Rainfall and Mild Heat Patterns
The county receives 55.3 inches of annual precipitation, exceeding the ideal lawn range of 30-50 inches. With 31 extreme heat days and 4,853 growing degree days, the climate supports long periods of growth, though excess moisture can lead to fungal issues.
Overcoming Highly Acidic Soil Barriers
The soil is extremely acidic with a pH of 4.66, falling far short of the 6.0-7.0 range preferred by most grasses. While specific drainage data is unavailable, the mix of 10.6% clay and 40.5% sand requires significant lime applications to balance the chemistry for healthy roots.
Recent Dry Spells Impact Turf Health
Tyrrell County spent 26 weeks in drought over the last year, and currently, 100% of the area is considered abnormally dry. To preserve turf during these dry windows, homeowners should water deeply and infrequently rather than providing light daily sprinkles.
Start Strong with Warm-Season Grasses
Given the Zone 8b climate, warm-season varieties like St. Augustine or Bermuda are the most reliable choices. Aim to seed or sod after the last spring frost on March 29th to ensure the lawn establishes before the summer heat arrives.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Recommended Grasses
Bermudagrass
Cynodon dactylon
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
55.3"
Growing Degree Days
4,852.7
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
03/29
First Fall Frost
11/13
Days Above 95F
31
Hardiness Zone
8b
Seeding Calendar — Zone 8B
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
- Raise mowing height to reduce heat stress
- 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
- Overseed with ryegrass for winter color
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 55" annual precipitation and estimated evapotranspiration. Actual costs vary by local water rates.
Common Lawn Problems in Tyrrell County
Excess Moisture & Fungal Disease
High annual rainfall (55 inches) increases risk of fungal diseases like brown patch and dollar spot. Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Acidic Soil
Soil pH of 4.7 is below the ideal range for most grasses (6.0-7.0). Apply agricultural lime to raise pH gradually.
Persistent Drought Conditions
Tyrrell County experienced drought conditions for 26 of the past 52 weeks. Prioritize water-efficient grasses and consider reducing lawn area.
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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