How to Identify Canadian Grass Plants

Identify the climate for the region in which you are located. Different types of grasses grow in the cool, humid northwest than in the hot, arid southwest. You are most likely to find Canadian grass plants in the cooler regions of the United States.

Observe whether the grass grows in full sunlight or partial shade. Canadian grass plants include chewings fescue and creeping red fescue, which are both shade-tolerant grasses.

Watch to see how well the grass grows during times of drought and extreme weather. Canadian grass plants are generally hardy enough to withstand drought or to recover quickly after a prolonged dry spell. The grasses also winter well, especially in areas where a layer of snow protects them during the season.

Take samples of the grass and observe them, under a microscope if possible. Compare them with the descriptions given for the different types of grasses on the Purdue University Turfgrass database.

Examine the colors and shapes of the individual grass blades. Canadian grass is usually a combination of 20 percent creeping red fescue, 10 percent each perennial ryegrass and annual ryegrass and 30 percent Kentucky bluegrass, along with vermiculite and fertilizers.

Check the roots of the grass, especially if the surface blades have been destroyed or cannot be used as samples for any reason. Kentucky bluegrass has roots that reach a depth of 14 inches, while certain types of wheatgrass may reach up to about 17 inches. The depth and quality of the root system will be helpful in the identification of Canadian grass plants.