Test the pH of your soil before planting grass where the soil is sandy. The pH level for cool-season grasses should be between 5.5 and 7.0. You may need to add lime to increase the pH level, but this should be done at least three to six months prior to planting.
This variety of cool-season grass grows well in sandy soils and is moderately drought tolerant. It prefers soil that is dry to moist and needs full sun to grow well in Michigan.
Canada wild rye grass will grow in Michigan soil that is either sandy or loamy. Unlike Indian grass, Canada wild rye will grow well in some shade. It is moderately drought tolerant and does not require a lot of moisture in the soil.