Finding the Best Grass Seed for Your Lawn

The simplest way to decide among the different types of grass which one is best for your lawn is by location. There are three basic climate areas to consider:

• Northern region (the blue area on the map) where cool-season grasses thrive
• Deep South/Gulf region (tan) where warm-season grasses grow best
• Transition zone (green) between the Northern and Deep South/Gulf regions

Northern grasses (cool-season grasses) are more cold tolerant than other types and grow fairly quickly in the spring and fall. However, their growth does slow down some during the warmer seasons. Options include:

• Ryegrass
• Fescue
• Bluegrass

The transition zone sometimes requires mixtures or blends of warm- and cool-season grasses. In general, the transition zone has more success with cool-season grasses than warm-season varieties. Here are some that do well in this region:

• Sun and shade
• Bermuda
• Fescue
• Zoysia

Deep South/Gulf grasses (warm-season grasses) are more tolerant of hot temperatures, but they aren’t as cold hardy as Northern varieties. These types include:

• Bermuda
• St. Augustine
• Centipede
• Bahia

Just like any plant, grass needs specific conditions and care to perform at its best. Here are mowing, soil and sunlight requirements for some different types of turfgrass, as well as tolerances for traffic and drought conditions. Keep in mind, this is general information and may vary by the cultivar or variety of a grass type. Check the grass seed packaging for specific information.

Bahia Grass

Due to its ability to withstand the heat and humidity of the South, Bahia grass is best suited for Southern states such as Louisiana or Florida. This type of grass is a warm-season variety and has a rough texture. It can endure heavy foot traffic. This is the best grass seed for college campuses in the region because of its toughness.

Bermuda Grass

Bermuda grass, a warm-season grass, has an aggressive growth habit, so it’s not ideal for areas near flower beds. This grass is also weed-resistant. Since Bermuda grass loses its color in winter, consider overseeding it with ryegrass.

Kentucky Bluegrass

For cool Northern areas, Kentucky bluegrass is the best grass seed, provided that the proper conditions are met. These include sunlight, good soil and a regular water supply. This is a cool-season grass seed that thrives in places like Washington state. Kentucky bluegrass grows tremendously during the spring and fall months. The rate of growth decreases with the colder months; however, this grass seed is cold tolerant.

Centipede Grass

Centipede grass is the best grass seed if you want a low-maintenance, low-growing lawn. The best soil for this type of grass seed is acidic and can be found in the Deep South region. This is a warm-season grass with a rough texture. It’s ideal for dealing with and controlling weeds, and it’s resistant to pests. Centipede grass isn’t cold tolerant and thrives in hot temperatures, making it ideal for places like Alabama or South Carolina. With proper care, this grass seed will flourish year-round.

Fescue Grass

The turf-type fescue family is the best grass seed for variation. Members include fine fescue, creeping fescue, hard fescue and tall fescue grasses (such as Kentucky 31 tall fescue). Due to the variety, tolerance of certain conditions varies. It’s important to check the label for the following: heat, drought and cold tolerance, as well as lighting specifics (such as direct sunlight, partial sunlight or shade) and durability.

Perennial Ryegrass

To keep a warm-season lawn looking green all year, consider overseeding it with a winter grass seed like perennial ryegrass to maintain healthy growth during the colder months. It’s also great for adding to cool-season grass mixes due to its quick germination. Perennial ryegrass can also withstand moderate to high foot traffic.

St. Augustine Grass

St. Augustine grass is a warm-season grass that keeps its blue-green color into the fall season. It’s a great option in regions where the climate is warm and where sandy soil is prevalent. This grass seed is best for places in the Deep South or Gulf regions such as southern Texas.  

Zoysia Grass

Zoysia grass is more of a high-maintenance grass seed, but the results are worth it. This grass seed is ideal for warm climates and requires a well-drained growing site. This type requires more work; however, when treated properly it results in a lush and luxurious lawn. You might find this grass seed best suited for places like Georgia or South Carolina.