Grass Type Guide

Tips for growing warm-season grasses

• Fertilize warm-season grass in early spring when it rejuvenates after winter dormancy.
• Mow your lawn with sharp blades and don’t cut more than ⅓ of the grass length.
• The ideal time for growing warm-season grass is late spring.

Transition-zone grass types

The transition zone includes areas where the temperatures rise and fall dramatically, including the East-Central and Mid-Central regions of the U.S. These regions are least feasible for many grass species due to their exposure to droughts, changing weather, and lack of shade.

In the transition zone, grass will be exposed to both cool and warm weather so it needs to have a higher tolerance to thrive. Choosing heat-tolerant grass types is a wise idea.

Some popular transition-zone grasses include:

• Fescues
• Bluegrass
• Ryegrass
• Zoysia
• Thermal Blue

Grass Type Characteristics

Now that you know your zone, you need to determine the best types of grass to plant in your yard. Knowing your region’s climate and area’s soil condition will be quite helpful for growing the lush, green grass you desire. 

If you are wondering what types of lawn grass are suitable for your yard, you must know the characteristics of different grass types.

General Grass Care by Seasons

A healthy lawn not only adds to the value of your home but also enhances its aesthetics. To maintain a lush green lawn, you must know what type of treatment your grass needs season after season. 

We have compiled some pro tips covering lawn care required by season to keep your lawn healthy.

Spring

Spring is when your grass demands the most care, after winter dormancy. Your lawn’s health is majorly influenced by the way you treat it in the spring.

Fertilization

For optimum results, use mild, organic fertilizer and do not use it excessively as it can burn the grass leaves.

Weeds

Use a pre-emergent herbicide to remove any weeds that you might see in your lawn. Common weeds include crabgrass, and weeds usually grow in the summer.

Summer

Summer is the time when you spend the most time on your lawn. Here are some tips for keeping a healthy lawn that you can enjoy in the summer.

Mowing

cool-season grasses, mowing length should be 3-4 inches.

warm-season grasses, mowing length should be 2-3 inches. 

Don’t mow your lawn too frequently and always use sharp blades.

Weed Control

Weeds emerge and become more visible in the summer. To get rid of weeds, you can use two methods: conventional and chemical. Pluck weeds with your hands if your lawn is not heavily populated, otherwise chemical methods are a good option.

Fall

Fall provides you the last chance to look after your lawn before the harsh winter. The care your lawn gets in this season shows results in the upcoming months.

Fertilization

Apply a slow-release fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen as it enhances grass color. Don’t apply fertilizer on a dry lawn, and water your lawn before applying fertilizer.

Mowing

Mowing should keep your grass at 2-3 inches high. Leaving your grass too tall can expose it to fungal diseases.

Watering

Keep watering your lawn constantly for optimal growth. Don’t rely on rain.

FAQ About Grass Types and Lawn Care

How can I be sure what grass zone I’m in?

The best type of grass for your lawn depends on your region’s climate. We all know that America’s climate system is a little complex, and to keep things easier for you, we have divided the common grass types into 6 regions.

1. Northeastern grass types

   Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescues can be found all across the northeastern region. Residents of this region can please themselves with the amazing blends of Kentucky bluegrass with fescue and ryegrass.

2. Midwestern grass types

   The Midwest region mostly stays cool during the year with varying humidity. The best grass types for the heartland are tall fescues and perennial ryegrass. You can blend them together for better durability.

3. Southeastern grass types

   The climate in the Southeast mostly stays warm and humid. It provides the most favorable conditions for the southern grass types that thrive under warm and humid conditions. Bermuda and ryegrass are the types you can plant considering their tolerance against heat, droughts, and salt.

4. Southwestern grass types

   The southwestern region is favorable for grass types that can fare well in the warm and dry season. Bermudagrass is the most suitable breed that you can plant in this region. It requires frequent watering but is heat-tolerant.

5. Gulf Coast grass types

   The Gulf Coast and deep southern regions have high temperatures and humidity levels. Bahiagrass and centipedegrass are the two low-maintenance species that you can have to beautify your lawn.

6. Pacific Northwest grass types

   This region has cool weather with varying humidity levels and provides favorable conditions for grasses that are cold-tolerant. Tall fescues and bluegrass are preferred in arid zones while fine fescues and ryegrass do well in humid zones.

How do I grow my grass?

Growing grass and creating a perfect lawn have a lot to do with what kind of seed you choose, how you plant it, and how you hydrate it. Of course you want to grow your grass quickly and to be thick, green, and healthy.

You should look after your grass like you would look after your children. A green and thick grass is a result of proper nourishment and consistent care. You should water it deeply, aerate it when required, kill weeds, use organic fertilizers, and mow it frequently to maintain its thickness, color, and health. 

If you take the lawn care steps outlined above, growing a scenic lawn shouldn’t be a problem for you.

Some grass growing tips

• If you want to maintain a thick, green turf, and want that to happen quickly, then you should plant ryegrass seeds as ryegrass is the fastest-growing grass.
• Spring and fall are the best seasons to plant grass seeds. Make sure to add moisture to the soil and cover the seeds not more than 1/4 inch of the soil. Water your seeds lightly to keep the soil moist and soft.
• To increase thickness, aerate your lawn, water it deeply, apply organic fertilizers , and mow your grass to the optimal length.
• To hydrate your lawn properly, water in the morning – and deeply – but not too frequently.