Why Should I Plant Ryegrass?

Climate

• Ryegrass is a good permanent turf type for growing in the transitional zone of the United States. This cool season grass cannot tolerate cold or hot temperatures, according to Texas A&M University. The transitional zone consists of Oklahoma, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky and parts of surrounding states, to name a few areas. Southern states can plant this grass for a winter turf. Gardeners in the south will see ryegrass go dormant in the early spring and start growing in the late fall.

Shade

• Ryegrass performs well in the shade. In fact, ryegrass may withstand the heat of summer in southern states if grown in shady locations. Few grass types actually thrive in shade like ryegrass. Those with shady lawns should avoid growing grass types such as bahia, bermuda and zoysiagrasses in the shade, according to Clemson University. Gardeners growing ryegrass in the shade should make sure that grass is well irrigated. Not only does ryegrass need moist soil, but shady locations have little soil moisture due to the shallow root systems of plants that grow in the shade.

Seeds and Sod

• Gardeners who want to seed a cool season grass in the southern United States can use ryegrass seeds. Ryegrass seeds quickly germinate and spread for temporary winter lawns, according Texas A&M University. Seeding is more cost-effective than planting sod. Northern regions generally use sod when establishing ryegrass. For those wanting to establish a lush-looking lawn in a few hours depending on the size of your lawn, sod installation is your best bet.

Soil pH

• Ryegrass can grow in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.0. Gardeners with acidic soil can plant ryegrass without worrying about making soil amendments. In fact, it takes three to six months to alter a pH range. You can skip altering your acidic soil when you decide to grow ryegrass. Make sure that the pH doesn't exceed 7.0 or you can see your ryegrass decline in health. Check your soil's pH range every year.