Types of Yard Grass

Bahiagrass was brought to the United States in 1914 for use as a pasture grass in the Southeast. 1 This South American native is still used extensively in agriculture, conservation and erosion control programs. 2 As its origin suggests, Bahia is a warm-season grass.

This lack of cold tolerance prevents its WIDE SPREAD use north of the grass-growing region lawn pros refer to as the “transition zone." South of that region, from the Atlantic across southern states into California, Bermudagrass is a leading lawn choice. Bermuda grass flourishes in sites with full, direct sun and good drainage.

All grass lawns require some degree of maintenance. The choice of lawn grass determines to some degree the amount of care and inputs that your lawn will need. Bluegrass lawns can be classified as medium to full maintenance turf covers.

Centipede grass is known for its excellent heat tolerance and extremely low maintenance requirements. A favorite of lawn owners interested in minimal upkeep, Centipede grass requires far less attention and input than other grasses in its growing region.

Fescue grass is a popular cool-season grass for home lawns. Fescue is a common lawn grass throughout much of the U.S. and Canada. These types of grasses are generally known for their year-round green color, drought resistance, and shade tolerance.

Perennial ryegrass is a grass that has many uses but probably does not get the credit it should. Kentucky bluegrass is known as the ideal lawn grass, fescues are known for shade and low maintenance, and perennial ryegrass is typically known for speedy germination and not much more.

Perennial ryegrass germinates quickly and holds up to foot traffic. Ryegrass is a common addition to cool-season grass mixes and the overseeding “wintergreen” option for warm-season lawns. St. Augustine. St. Augustine is the turfgrass of choice in warm climates where sandy soil is prevalent.

A zoysia grass lawn is frequently touted as the cure all for the homeowner’s lawn cares. The basic facts about zoysia grass is that unless it is grown in the right climate, it will cause more headaches than not. Zoysia Grass Problems. Invasive – Zoysia grass is a very invasive grass.