As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had the opportunity to work with both ProVista and Floratam grass varieties. Based on my experience, I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question of whether ProVista is better than Floratam.
1. Growth Rate: One significant advantage of ProVista grass is its engineered slow growth rate. It is designed to grow up to 40-percent slower than Floratam. This slower growth means less time and effort spent on mowing and lawn maintenance. Unlike Floratam, which requires regular mowing every week or two, ProVista typically only needs to be mowed once every few weeks. This can be a huge time-saver for busy homeowners or those who simply prefer to spend less time on lawn care.
2. Appearance: Both ProVista and Floratam are varieties of St. Augustine grass, known for its lush green color and thick growth. However, there are some differences in appearance between the two. ProVista grass tends to have a slightly finer texture and a more uniform look, which can give your lawn a more manicured and professional appearance. Floratam, on the other hand, has a slightly coarser texture and a more traditional St. Augustine grass look. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on your personal preference for lawn aesthetics.
3. Drought Tolerance: Another factor to consider is the drought tolerance of the grass varieties. Floratam is known for its good drought tolerance, being able to withstand periods of limited water availability. ProVista, while not specifically marketed as a drought-tolerant grass, has shown decent resilience to drought conditions in my experience. However, it is important to note that proper watering and irrigation practices are still essential for maintaining the health and appearance of any grass variety, including ProVista.
4. Weed and Pest Resistance: Both ProVista and Floratam have good weed and pest resistance. However, Floratam has been known to be more susceptible to certain diseases, such as brown patch fungus, compared to ProVista. ProVista’s slower growth rate may also help in preventing weed growth, as the grass is denser and leaves less room for weeds to establish themselves.
5. Maintenance Requirements: In terms of maintenance, ProVista requires less frequent mowing, as mentioned earlier. Additionally, ProVista has been observed to have a slower thatch buildup compared to Floratam. Thatch is the layer of dead grass and debris that accumulates between the soil and the live grass blades. Excessive thatch can hinder the health of the grass by preventing proper water and nutrient absorption. With ProVista’s slower growth, thatch buildup is typically less of an issue.
The choice between ProVista and Floratam depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value a slower growth rate, reduced mowing frequency, and a more manicured appearance, then ProVista may be the better option for you. However, if you prioritize proven drought tolerance and are willing to mow more frequently, Floratam could be a suitable choice. Ultimately, it is essential to consider factors such as your local climate, maintenance capabilities, and desired lawn aesthetics when making the decision.
