Classic St. Augustine is a warm-season sod that makes a thick, carpet-like lawn with broad, blue-green blades, the familiar coastal-South look. It handles filtered light better than bermuda, though it still wants good sun to stay dense. It spreads by runners, knitting in quickly and crowding out most weeds.

Lay it on prepared, well-drained soil and water daily for the first two to three weeks, then settle into deep, less frequent soakings. Mow high, around 3 to 4 inches, and it stays green until frost sends it into winter dormancy.