A majority of water used in SW Florida is used for irrigation, most of which is to keep thirsty lawns alive.  St. Augustine Floritam is turf used in a majority of homes and businesses throughout Florida.  Floritam is a “thirsty” turf generally requiring two or more waterings a week to prevent stress to the turf.  The advent of stress in all St. Augustine varieties creates an opportunity for Cinch Bugs and other insect predators to prosper and feed on the turf’s roots. 

Consistent with our objective to provide clients with sustainable and successful planting outcomes, we have created a partnership with Bethel Farms to sell and install their proprietary Empire and Sapphire turf products.

Empire Turf is a Zoysia with many of the characteristics of turf found “up north,” such as a soft, dense and deep green character.  It is capable of surviving complete drought conditions once it has been established, is Cinch Bug resistant and will stay healthy and green with one watering a week.  In addition to requiring less water, Empire needs an average of eleven less cuttings a year; one to two fertilizer applications; and is soft and pleasant to walk on.  This turf is the perfect choice for complete turf replacement or new construction. Sapphire is the most drought-tolerant of the various St. Augustine turf varieties.  It needs a minimum of one day of watering each week to maintain its rich and dense character.

You can learn more about these important turf options to reduce water, fertilizer and pesticide inputs by visiting this link to Bethel Farm's website.

To view a recent press release about how Riverland Nursery and Bethel Farms helped to transform the Mediterra Sports Club, click here.

Orders of four pallets or more of either Sapphire or Empire can be placed for delivery to your home or business. A pallet covers a 400 square feet.

Call for more information on delivery and installation.