If you live in a coastal area, shade-tolerant varieties like Raleigh, palmetto, and delmar are also tolerant to salt. St. Augustine grass grows best at 80 to 95° F (26-35° C). It’s very susceptible to freeze, so it won’t grow well in cooler climates. St. Augustine grass is considered a high-maintenance grass because it needs more fertilization than other grasses.
Zoysiagrass cultivars that are particularly shade-tolerant are el toro, diamond, and cavalier.
These grasses are better adapted to cool, dry areas. If your lawn gets poor drainage and the temperatures regularly exceed 85° F (29° C), it won’t grow well. [4] X Research source
Rough bluegrass grows quickly and is known to overtake other grasses. If this isn’t something that you want, limit your watering in the areas where the bluegrass is growing to discourage further growth. [6] X Research source
The two main varieties of ryegrass are annual and perennial ryegrass. Perennial ryegrass is usually the better choice, as it is more shade-tolerant, more resistant to disease, and has a darker, richer color. [8] X Research source
For dry, moderate shade, choose a mix of Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue. For shady, wet areas select a mix of bluegrass with perennial ryegrass. [10] X Research source It is easy to grow grass from seeds. Till and level your soil, then simply scatter the seeds. Place a layer or straw or mulch over the seeds and gently mist them with water every few days. [11] X Research source Warm-season mixes aren’t usually recommended because these grasses vary wildly in their tolerance to temperature, water, and soil quality. [12] X Research source
Shade is also problematic for grass because it develops humid, wet conditions quickly. This makes it the perfect place for diseases to form and infect your grass.
While you’re mowing your grass at a higher height, you still want to make sure you’re not removing more than ⅓ of the grass’ length. Trimming your grass too low can stress it out and reduce its growth. Mowing grass to a higher height also encourages deeper root growth. This helps your grass grow because it’s better able to drink up water and nutrients. [15] X Research source
When you prune your tree, keep its thick, main branches intact. Aim to cut off several thin, densely packed branches to open up the tree. If there are shrubs and bushes in your lawn that are creating shadowed areas, prune them back too. Simply trim off any overgrown branches towards the center of your shrub. If there are trees and bushes in your lawn that you don’t want, remove them altogether.
It’s best to water your lawn in the early morning or late evening so that your grass can soak the water in before it evaporates. Be careful of overwatering your lawn. Shady, wet areas are more likely to develop diseases.
Fertilize cool-season grasses like fescues and bluegrass in the fall when leaves begin to drop. Use a fertilizer with a 2-1-1 ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. [20] X Trustworthy Source Penn State Extension Educational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communities Go to source Fertilize warm-season grasses like St. Augustine and zoysiagrass in the early summer when temperatures are warming up, which is usually around May. These grasses do well with 16-4-8 fertilizers. [21] X Trustworthy Source University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Division of the University of Georgia focused on research and community education Go to source
