Buy a variety of grass seed that grows well in Oregon. Local gardening stores tend to have seed that grows well in the local environment, and seed is also available online. Northern lawn grasses survive well in Oregon, and, according to the National Gardening Association, some popular northern varieties include Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescues and perennial ryegrass. Colorado State University recommends Asian grasses for ornamental grasses in wet climates such as western Oregon.
Weed the soil before planting. Grass grows better if roots are not competing with weeds for space.
Prepare the soil for planting by tilling and adding compost. The National Gardening Association recommends tilling a layer of organic compost into the soil to a minimum depth of 6 inches. Gardeners planting grass in areas with heavy clay may want to mix in lighter soil to provide good drainage and aeration for roots.
Rake the soil to flatten any big mounds and create small ridges that grass seeds can cling to.
Dampen the soil so it is moist but not overly saturated. Grass seeds need water to grow, but too much water will be harmful.
Plant the grass seeds by spreading a layer of them over the damp soil. Different types of seeds need to be spread out more or less, and the seeds' packaging should explain about how much to spread. Lightly press the seeds into the soil using the back of the rake to prevent them from blowing or washing away.