Frog Fruit Lawn FAQ
Written by Ashlee Brackeen
I recently shared photos of a Frog Fruit lawn on our social media and am inspired by how many people are interested in converting their own lawns! It seems many of you have grown weary of maintaining traditional lawns, especially in light of water scarcity and persistent drought conditions in Louisiana. We all understand that our climate is ever-changing and sustainable landscapes such as this one provide better alternatives for the future.
Phyla nodiflora or Phyla lanceolota, both commonly known as Frog Fruit, are hardy native ground cover species found throughout the southern United States, including Louisiana. They are highly adaptable and thrive in diverse environments such as ditches, roadways, beaches, and fields. Frog Fruit is a semi-evergreen perennial that offers an attractive solution for those seeking a sustainable and low-maintenance alternative to traditional, thirsty lawns. With blooms from January to October, it serves as a valuable resource for pollinators and contributes to our overall ecosystem health.
I know very well how deeply our culture loves its lawns, and that cuttin’ grass is a way of life to so many of us here in south Louisiana. It is unfortunate that the traditional, resource-intensive approach to lawn maintenance, with frequent watering, mowing, and fertilizing, is so environmentally harmful. These common practices can result in chemical runoff, air pollution, and biodiversity loss. These unintentional consequences affect the future of Louisiana, the health of our unique landscapes, and as a result, the culture of our people.
Native ground cover lawns offer a more sustainable alternative for those who enjoy our lawn culture, playing or unwinding on a soft, verdant surface, or simply prefer a more traditional, tidy look! Below are a few suggestions for those interested in creating their own Frog Fruit lawn. Please feel free to reach out to us with any further questions you may have. Thank you for sharing our passion for these species and their vital role in our ecosystem!
Installing a Frog Fruit Lawn
It is best practice to remove any existing grass or vegetation from the area where you wish to install your Frog Fruit lawn.
The most efficient method for growing Frog Fruit is through propagation due to its rapid spreading capability. Frog Fruit can be wild-collected along our bayous and marshes. If you choose to wild collect, be sure to do so responsibly, respecting natural habitats and local regulations to ensure the preservation of our native ecosystems.
If you would like to purchase plugs for your project, please reach out to us, we are happy to assist you in sourcing!
When planting Frog Fruit plugs, aim to space them approximately two to four feet apart in a staggered formation for optimal growth.
Cover the exposed earth of your newly planted area with a layer of pine straw mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide insulation for young plants.
Consistent moisture is required during the establishment phase, especially in drought conditions.
With the right conditions and care, your Frog Fruit lawn should start to fill in within approximately two months.
Maintaining a Frog Fruit Lawn
Once established, Frog Fruit lawns thrive without the need for irrigation.
Frog Fruit is a natural spreader, so occasional edging near sidewalks and driveways may be needed to maintain a neat and tidy appearance.
Mow as desired. Frog Fruit typically grows to a height of 2-6 inches.
While Frog Fruit is hardy and resilient, it may not thrive in areas used as dog runs, as constant foot traffic and digging can disrupt its growth and lead to patchy or damaged areas in the lawn.
Frog Fruit can withstand occasional freezes but may experience some dieback during exceptionally harsh winter conditions. It is generally resilient and can bounce back after cold spells.
In the event of an extended period of below-freezing weather, consider protecting your Frog Fruit lawn by covering it with frost blankets or mulch to minimize cold damage.
New Orleans, Lafayette, Acadiana, North Shore, Covingston, Mandeville, Port Allen, Uptown, Mid City, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Lawns, Native, Plants, Landscapes, Landscaping, Eco-Friendly, Organic