Did you know that about 30% of your water bill goes towards outdoor uses like landscape irrigation? That’s about 90 gallons a day for most Americans.
With growing threats of drought and rising water prices, the choices you make on outdoor planting projects are increasingly important. Choosing the right type of grass for your lawn is a good investment for you and the planet.
If you are researching different grasses for your next yard project, there are several things to keep in mind. Keep reading to learn more about what grasses to consider before choosing a type of sod for your lawn.
Where You Live
While purchasing sod avoids the hassle of buying and sowing grass seed, your geographic location will influence the sod types you’ll have to choose from. The United States has seven different regions classified into humid or arid zones.
Knowing what zone your yard sits in will help you set expectations around what grass varieties to consider and if you need to prioritize drought-resistant species. Depending on your location, you’ll want to choose the best sod for your region:
- Pacific Northwest: Humid or arid grasses depending on location
- Midwest: Humid or arid grasses depending on location
- Southwest: Arid grasses
- Northeast: Humid grasses
- Southeast: Humid grasses
- Deep South and Gulf Coast: Humid grasses
Talking to a local expert, like Brothers Services in Lafayette and Baton Rouge, will help you make the best choice for your specific lawn needs. It’s a good idea to consider factors like heavy foot traffic, pets, shade, and maintenance expectations.
Cool-Season Grasses
These species do best in the spring and fall. While they remain green in the winter, cool-season grasses require a lot of water and often turn brown in the summer.
Kentucky Bluegrass
This hearty grass stands up to foot traffic and light shade. It does require extra fertilization compared to other types of grasses.
Fine Fescue Grass
This grass is aesthetically appealing and valued for its tolerance to shade, drought, and salt. It doesn’t hold up well to high amounts of traffic.
Warm-Season Grasses
These grasses do best in the summer heat. They do require lots of rain and warmer temperatures, so warm-season grasses usually lay dormant during periods of drought or in the winter.
Augustine Grass
This species is shade and salt-tolerant and slow-growing. It does require adequate irrigation and consistent fertilization.
Zoysia Grass
This grass holds up to foot traffic and is also drought-tolerant. The primary downside is that it spreads rapidly, which makes it high maintenance.
Centipede Grass
This is a perfect low-maintenance choice that also tolerates acidic soil. It doesn’t hold up well to foot or pet traffic.
Choosing the Best Type of Sod
The best type of sod for your yard is determined by a range of factors, including your geographic location, yard use, and desired water and maintenance schedule. Choosing the right type of grass before you purchase will save you time, water, and money in the long term.
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