How to Select Turfgrass

Overview

The selection of a turfgrass can seem daunting, simply because there are so many varieties to choose from. You can make your decision easier, however, if you know what criteria to consider when you're selecting the right turfgrass. Choosing the right grass for your climate, space, usage and maintenance level is essential to establishing a healthy lawn. Turfgrasses are divided into several main and sub-categories, based on the climate, usage, sunlight exposure and care requirements.

Step 1

Narrow down your turfgrass options by the climate in your region. Two main types of turfgrasses exist, which are cool-season grasses that are planted in regions where winters are colder and summers are hot, and warm-season grasses that are planted in regions with mild, usually non-freezing winters.

Step 2

Base your turfgrass selection on the grass's intended use, whether for a home lawn, golf course or athletic field. Bahia, centipede, fescues and bluegrasses are best for lawns. Bermuda, bentgrass and perennial ryegrass are commonly used for golf or athletic fields.

Step 3

Select your turfgrass based on the sunlight exposure where you're planting it. Most turfgrasses grow best in sunny locations, but certain blends work well in shadier lawn areas, such as a mixture of Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue for lawns in colder climates. Tall fescue grass also grows well in shady areas.

Step 4

Choose your grass type based on the maintenance level it requires. For example, Kentucky bluegrasses germinate slowly, require frequent irrigation and need lots of fertilization, and perennial ryegrasses are difficult to mow. Tall fescue, on the other hand, requires little fertilization and less-frequent mowing, and Bahia and centipede grasses are also low-maintenance.