Which Type of Grass Grows Best?

Climate

• Climate is the most important factor when selecting the best type of grass for your lawn. While fescue thrives in warm climates, cooler climates require cold-hardy grass varieties. Creeping bentgrass is a cold-hardy grass that withstands heavy traffic. It forms a soft, dense carpet that requires frequent watering and fertilizing. Kentucky bluegrass is another variety that thrives in colder climates across the northern United States and is suitable for athletic fields and lawns. Bahia grass is a tropical variety that thrives in hot, humid climates. Buffalo grass can handle both the heat and the cold, making it a good selection in areas that experience hot summers and cold winters.

Sunlight

• Most types of grass require full sunlight. When planting grass beneath a tree or in between tall structures, select a variety that tolerates shade. Fine fescues and red fescues are suitable for areas with filtered light and partial shade. The care of shade-tolerant grass is similar to other grasses, except they do not require as much fertilizer or water. Shade tolerant grass also tends to grow slower than grass grown in the sunlight, leading to less frequent mowing.

Soil

• Most soils benefit from some amending prior to planting. However, choosing a grass that grows well in your existing soil will minimize the amount of time and money you spend to amend and fertilize the soil. Bermuda grass is a hardy variety that grows well in sandy soils and rich, loamy soils, while buffalo grass performs best in clay soils.

Considerations

• Lawns and landscapes often include both sunny and shady locations and experience soil variations throughout the planting site. This is the reason many grass seed suppliers provide packaged mixes that include various grass seed blends. A drought-tolerant blend or a cool-season mix can be your best bet for a healthy, lush lawn. These mixes frequently include common grasses like bluegrass, fescue and ryegrass.