Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_00.gif)
Monday - July 23, 2012
From: Katy, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Pests, Grasses or Grass-like
Title: Ticks on native grasses in Katy, TX.
Answered by: Jimmy Mills
QUESTION:
Are there native grasses that are less susceptible to tick infestation than others?ANSWER:
Ticks are parasites of warm blooded animals and have a complex life cycle spending a portion of it on an animal, sucking blood from the host, and another portion in the environment going through developmental stages. The tick does not feed on the grasses, but climbs up the leaf blades in order to get on a new host. Height of the grass probably makes more difference than the species in regards to infestation. Another factor is the availability of hosts, eg rodents, cats, dogs, and deer in the area.
Here are two links to help you learn more about ticks and how to control them.
gardenweb.com
More Grasses or Grass-like Questions
Native plants both deer resistant and good for erosion from North Oaks MN
August 23, 2012 - We have several partially sunny areas on hills that are prone to both deer and erosion. Our goal is to reduce runoff in an effort to preserve the watershed that provides tap water to many citizens of ...
view the full question and answer
Can Habiturf be planted by hydroseeding from Austin?
February 04, 2012 - We are thinking about seeding our lawn with HABITURF. Could you provide any input on whether HABITURF can be planted by hydroseeding? Thanks!
view the full question and answer
Native turf grass for Austin
March 24, 2014 - I am installing a xeriscape landscape in my yard. It will be in full sun and I am looking for an alternative to turf, such as monkey grass. However, I am concerned about the light. Suggestions?
view the full question and answer
Growing grasses under juniper trees (Juniperus ashei)
October 29, 2008 - Mr. Smarty Plants,
Yesterday, I attended the plant sale at the Wildflower Center. I purchased cupgrass and switchgrass seeds only to discover the grasses may need more water than I am willing to u...
view the full question and answer
Cutting Juncus effusus back from Bellevue WA
November 18, 2010 - I read your posts about Juncus effusus and just have one follow-up question. When is the best time to cut them back to the ground - before winter or early spring? I live in the Pacific NW. I recent...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |