Grass That Can Grow in Heavy Shade

Climate Zones for Grass

• The United States consists of climate zones based on the average temperature and humidity. The northern zones experience cold winters with extremely low temperatures. Southern zones typically have mild winters with extreme heat in the summer. The locations within this broad range are referred to as the "transition" zones. While almost every type of grass will grow in each zone temporarily, choosing a breed that tolerates the climate and thrives in the shade ensures proper ground coverage.

Northern Zones

• Creeping red fescue, or red fescue, covers shaded areas in the northern zones of the United States and resists cooler temperatures. Chewings fescue grows aggressively in the shade of northern zones, often taking over other grass. It adapts well to the climate in the northern zones as well as the infertile, acidic soil. Hard fescue tolerates shade or sun and grows best in the northern United States.

Southern Zones

• Saint Augustine tolerates the high summer temperatures in the southern zones. However, it does not tolerate drought or cold weather. Saint Augustine's ability to grow in salty areas makes it suitable for shaded areas along the coast. Zoysia grows in a variety of soils. It also tolerates heavy shade but has a slow growth rate. Centipede does not tolerate shade as well as Zoysia but offers a low-maintenance alternative for shady lawns when mixed with other grass.

Transition Zones

• Creeping red fescue, or fine fescue, grows well transition zones and withstands the cooler temperatures. The shade offers Creeping red fescue a break from hotter temperatures. Zoysia, found in southern transition zones, also tolerates transition temperatures and shade in the cooler climates but suffers in harsh temperatures. Shade mixes for the transition zone often include bluegrass and and tall fescue (See Resources).