Choosing Grass To Plant

Whether you are laying sod or seed to plant a lawn or ornamental grasses, choosing grass is important. Not just any sod or grass seed will work everywhere. You want to choose grass that will thrive and also fit into your landscape maintenance plans.

First, decide where you will put the grass. Its survival depends partially on the practical considerations of efficiently watering and caring for the lawn. It is not a sound practice to seed or lay sod in long, narrow strips. Lawn grass works much better in larger square areas, which are easier to water and mow.

Before choosing grass to plant, do a soil analysis to determine your soil conditions. Although you can change the soil with an amendment before you plant grass, you increase your chances of having a successful lawn by choosing grass sod or seed compatible with the condition of your soil.

Also, think about your location's climate, and select grasses that fit the climate. If you live in a hot climate, Bermuda grass and St. Augustine grass may be a good choice. Kentucky bluegrass is popular, but this grass does not do well in drought. If you live in a semi-arid region, then hardy zoysia grass, buffalo grass, and centipede grass are possible choices, as these types of grass do not need as much water.

You may also want ornamental grasses for your landscape. Ornamental grasses are not meant to be used as a lawn. These grasses usually grow taller and have distinctive looks. The advantages of using ornamental grasses in your landscape include low maintenance and often water conservation.

When selecting ornamental grasses, consider things such as the location of the grasses in your landscape, the colors and textures of the grasses you are using, and whether or not they are compatible with the growing conditions and climate in your area. For example, some ornamental grasses do well in drier soils in full sun while others require moist soil

You also want to keep in mind a sense of scale when choosing ornamental grasses. Know how big the grasses will grow. Willows and other large grasses would not work well in a small area. If you have a large area, consider planting fewer different types of grasses, but more of the types you do use. Ornamental grasses planted in large groups grow into large patches of color or texture that can contrast nicely with other portions of the landscape.

Choosing grass that has the most chance of success in your climate and soil conditions and that looks the best as part of your design can add beauty and distinction to your home landscape.