What are the Different Types of Grass Seed, and Which is Best for Your Yard?

Choosing grass seed for your yard is a tricky process. If you select the correct type of grass, you will have a beautiful, thriving green lawn. However, if you pick the wrong type, you may end up with dead, patchy grass. 

To successfully plant a grass lawn, you will need to consider your regional climate, your yard’s sun exposure, and the condition of the soil on your property. Identifying these factors will help you determine which types of grass seed will be best for your yard. 

The seed for your region

Understanding your regional climate is essential to having a healthy grass yard. Grasses that thrive in cold regions will dry out and die in the heat, whereas grass meant for warm climates will suffer and turn brown in frigid temperatures. 

You should start your grass search by narrowing down your options to the types of grass seed for your region. Fortunately, grasses are a diverse plant category, and you will have several grass seed options regardless of where you live. 

Bermuda grass

Bermuda grass is a classic grass variety for warm climates. Bermuda grass grows in large, dense patches and is dark green in color. 

This grass type does best in hot and humid climates. Bermuda grass needs a lot of water, so you will have to commit to watering your yard frequently if you don’t live in a naturally rainy region. 

Bermuda grass is a great grass seed option if you live in the Southeast and plan on using your yard for playing and socializing. This grass can handle foot traffic, is easily mowed, and won’t die in high temperatures. 

Kentucky bluegrass

If you live in the Northeast, Kentucky bluegrass may be the ideal type of grass seed for your lawn. Kentucky bluegrass is a classic grass variety that thrives in cooler climates and is regularly used for both golf courses and private homes.

This grass has a gorgeous emerald shade and provides plenty of coverage for your yard. Like Bermuda grass, Kentucky bluegrass is a suitable grass species for yards that get a lot of foot traffic.

Keep in mind that Kentucky bluegrass has shallow roots and thus needs frequent watering to stay healthy. However, this usually isn’t an issue in the Northeast, given that the region experiences relatively heavy rainfall. 

Tall fescue

Yard owners in dry climates should explore tall fescue as a grass seed option. Tall fescue has long, thin blades and a deep root system. The thin leaves, in combination with the deep roots, enable this grass species to grow in drought conditions.

Tall fescue grows well in cooler climates, such as areas in the Midwest. But this species is quite hardy and can survive in moderately warm regions. 

Final thoughts

Although these are some of the most commonly used grass varieties, you can find a wide range of options for your regional climate. Once you find the best grass seed for your yard, you can begin the wonderful experience of growing the lawn of your dreams.