Turfgrass Guide

Tall fescue is a cool-season grass that is well-adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions. It has increased heat tolerance compared to other cool-season grasses and can tolerate shade better than most common lawn grasses, except for fine fescues. Tall fescue establishes easily from seed and germinates quickly.

This grass is best planted during peak growth periods in the fall, as it is a cool-season grass. Fall planting gives tall fescue adequate time to establish deep roots before the onset of winter. When densely sown, tall fescue forms a moderate to coarse-textured lawn and is well-suited to sunny or partially shady areas.

Tall fescue has deep and extensive root zones, which typically reach 2 to 3 feet deep. This deep root system helps it withstand drought conditions better than other common cool-season lawn grasses. Turf-type tall fescues are especially popular for home and industrial sites due to their deep root penetration.

Being a bunch-type grass, tall fescue forms a clumpy appearance when used as a lawn species. It is medium to dark green in color and has a coarse texture. Improved cultivars of tall fescue are often preferred for lawns.

Fine fescue is a group of low-maintenance cool-season turfgrasses commonly used in various settings, such as home lawns, commercial properties, golf courses, parks, and roadsides. They are known for their fine texture and excellent shade tolerance. Fine fescues can be grown as a blend with each other or mixed with other cool-season grasses in lawns that have full sun to shaded conditions.

These grasses, including Chewings, Hard, Sheep, and Strong Creeping Red Fescues, are suitable for areas with difficult soil conditions like rocky, sandy, or clay situations. Fine fescue is known to be drought-resistant but may experience dormancy during hot summers. It provides a meadow-like texture to lawns and can thrive in full sun or partially shaded areas.

When it comes to maintenance, fine fescue requires less water, fertilizer, and mowing compared to other turfgrass varieties. It is a good option for those seeking a low-input lawn. However, it's important to note that fine fescue may not be as heat tolerant as other grass types like Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue.

Kentucky bluegrass is a perennial cool-season lawn grass commonly used for its beauty, durability, and ability to form dense sod. It is native to Europe and widely grown in North America. This grass grows most vigorously during the cooler seasons, such as fall, winter, and spring.

Kentucky bluegrass has a distinctive blue-green color and spreads via rhizomes, which helps it form a dense turf. It thrives in cool, moist weather and prefers well-drained fertile soils with a pH between 6 and 7.5. Due to its desirable characteristics, Kentucky bluegrass is often used in roadside mixes to stabilize soil.

In terms of care, Kentucky bluegrass requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. It benefits from a consistent watering schedule and may need supplemental irrigation during hot summer months. Mowing should be done at a height of 2 to 3 inches to maintain a healthy and attractive lawn. Fertilization, overseeding, and weed control are also important aspects of Kentucky bluegrass maintenance.

With its beauty, resilience, and ability to form a dense turf, Kentucky bluegrass is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a classic and luxurious lawn. Whether used by sod growers or homeowners themselves, this grass can provide a lush and vibrant landscape.

Perennial Ryegrass is a cool-season grass that germinates faster than other common lawn grasses and is used for both permanent and temporary lawns. It is known for its fast growth, making it an ideal choice for establishing lawns quickly. Perennial Ryegrass is often used as a companion grass with other varieties due to its ability to establish rapidly and provide a lush green appearance.

This grass is best adapted to coastal regions with moderate temperatures throughout the year. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. However, it has a low tolerance for high heat and very cold weather. Perennial Ryegrass is commonly seen in mixes with other types of grasses to create a more diverse and resilient turf.

Being a bunch-type grass, Perennial Ryegrass grows in clumps and has a medium longevity. It is native to Europe and widely planted as both a pasture grass and turfgrass in the United States. The grass grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet and is often used for winter overseeding on sites that require high quality and winter color.

Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass widely used for lawns, sports fields, and golf courses. It is known for its excellent heat and drought tolerance, making it well-suited for regions with hot climates. Bermuda grass has a fine texture, dense growth habit, and a vibrant green color, contributing to its popularity as a turfgrass choice.

To take care of Bermuda grass, proper maintenance practices are important. Firstly, regular mowing is essential to keep it looking its best. Set your mower at a height of around 1-1.5 inches for a manicured lawn or adjust it higher for a more natural look. Remember to never remove more than one-third of the grass height in a single mowing session.

Secondly, fertilization is crucial for the health and vigor of Bermuda grass. Apply a balanced fertilizer according to the specific needs of your lawn, following a schedule recommended for your region. This will provide the necessary nutrients for growth and help maintain the grass's vibrant color.

Lastly, irrigation plays a significant role in Bermuda grass care. It prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. Aim to water your lawn about 1 inch per week, including rainfall, divided into two to three watering sessions. Watering in the early morning allows the grass to dry before evening and helps prevent disease. Regularly monitor soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

St. Augustine grass is a warm-season grass that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It is known for its excellent heat tolerance and the ability to tolerate partial shade. This grass establishes quickly and easily from sod or plugs.

The ideal time to plant St. Augustine grass is during the late spring or early summer when soil temperatures are warm. It requires adequate moisture for a successful establishment. Once established, St. Augustine grass forms a dense, lush turf with a medium to dark green color.

One of the notable characteristics of St. Augustine grass is its ability to recover quickly from damage or stress. It has vigorous above-ground stolons and below-ground rhizomes that help it spread and regenerate. This feature makes it a popular choice for areas with high foot traffic or where rapid recovery is desired.

Centipede grass is a warm-season perennial turfgrass known for its excellent heat tolerance and low maintenance requirements. It is a favorite choice for those seeking a lawn that requires minimal upkeep. Centipede grass grows slowly but thrives in mild climates, making it suitable for Southern homeowners looking for a low-maintenance lawn option.

This grass has a coarse texture and can be planted as seed, sod, plugs, or sprigs. Centipede grass has low fertility requirements and needs little fertilizer. It also tolerates moderate shade, making it a versatile option for different environments. This slow-growing grass requires infrequent mowing and can withstand periods of moderate drought. It is often used in low-maintenance situations where a "lazy man's" lawn is desired.

If you are considering planting centipede grass, it is important to provide adequate watering when you see signs of wilting or the grass turning grayish green. Apply about an inch of water at a time to ensure proper hydration. With its resilience and low maintenance requirements, centipede grass can be an excellent choice for creating a beautiful and hassle-free lawn.