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What is a Cool Season Grass? The name "Cool Season Grass" is given to a variety of grass species that thrive best in the cooler regions of the country. These grasses can include forage and range grasses, ornamental grasses, turf grasses, and grassy weeds. Grass seeds are planted in the fall and will thrive best in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees. In contrast, warm season grass seeds are planted in the spring and grow best in the warmest months. The preferred climate zone of adaptation for cool season grasses will be in the northern half of the U.S. Click here to see the U.S. Climate Zones of Grass Adaptation. Cool season turfgrasses include bluegrasses, fescues, and ryegrasses. Popular forage grasses include orchardgrass, timothy, and brome. These forage grasses can also be found in lawns, but are usually considered a weed. Tall fescue grass and the ryegrasses have forage varieties that do not perform well as a turfgrass. Each of the turf grasses have different characteristics that separate them from other grasses. The most noticeable is its color. However, blade width, growth habits, turf density, and its ability to withstand heavy traffic are also important. Most can withstand harsh winters and a few are able to survive longer periods of hot, humid weather. If you live in a cooler part of the country, there is a grass type that will work well for you. Cool season grasses can be started from seed much easier than most warm season grasses and the seed is generally much less expensive. Bluegrass seed and rye grass seed are among the least expensive. For detailed information on these popular grasses and the best ways to care for them, click on the links below.
Detailed Information on Kentucky Bluegrass and Other varieties Kentucky bluegrass is one of the most popular of all grass types. It is used on lawns, fairways and athletic fields in the cooler areas of the U.S. Find out what makes this grass so special. Coarse and Turf-Type Tall Fescue Tall fescue is an exceptional cool season grass. It is preferred by many because of its dark green color, wear resistance and heat tolerance. It is important to choose the right type depending on the look you want. Click here to find out everything you need to know about coarse and turf-type tall fescue. Annual and Perennial Ryegrass Ryegrass has come a long way with the introduction of new turf species. See all the pros and cons about using the perennial and annual varieties. Fine Fescue Grass The fine fescue grasses are known for their exceptional shade and cold tolerance. They have some of the narrowest blades of any grass type. Click here for detailed information about its climate range, uses and management. Detailed Tips and Techniques for Overseeding Lawns Overseeding Lawns is one of the most overlooked practices by homeowners. However, it is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain a consistently thick and beautiful lawn. Find complete information on why and how to overseed correctly. Plant Growth Regulators Plant Growth Regulators are just beginning to be discovered by homeowners. They are fantastic products with dozens of uses for everything from slowing grass growth to eliminating unwanted tree fruit. Click here to discover what you have been missing. Watering a New Lawn Watering a new lawn is very different from watering a mature lawn. When planting a new lawn, success will be greatly increased by learning proper watering techniques. Lawn Winterization Tips and Techiques Fall winterization is the most important time for fertilizing cool season grasses. Warm season grasses do not receive the same treatment. Find everything you need to know to winterize both cool and warm season grasses. Developing a Lawn Fertility Program Behind every beautiful lawn is a good lawn fertilization program. Whether it's a championship golf course or your home lawn, certain fundamentals always apply. Click here to begin planning your fertilization program. Plant Structure and Grass Growth In the world of turf grass, understanding plant structure and growth can provide helpful insights to maintaining a beautiful lawn. Understanding Photosynthesis Photosynthesis made easy! Understanding basic plant function will greatly improve your lawn care, especially fertilization. You will never look at your grass the same way. Cool Season Grass Cultivars Many grass types have numerous varieties to choose from. Click here to see the "cool season grass" cultivars that are available. Warm Season Grass Cultivars page Great improvement has been made with warm season grass varieties. Click here for a list of "warm season grass" cultivars. Lawn Moss and How to Control it Lawn moss is a common problem in yards. However, its presence represents deeper soil problems that must be fixed or the moss will stick around. Find out what must be done to finally end your moss problems. Dog Urine Damage on Lawns We all love our pets, but dog urine can do a number on grass. There is hope. Find out what can be done to save your lawn and your pet too. Cool Season Grasses to Lawn Care Academy Home |
