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When thinking of landscaping, you may want to think about the various types of grass that there are available to you. Kentucky Blue grass in particular can be quite good, though you will find that it is not native to America, it was simply brought there by colonists from Europe. However, despite that it is extremely common, especially in humid climates of the states, so if you haven't yet thought about having Kentucky Blue grass you might want to consider it now.
Everything You Need to Know About Kentucky Blue Grass
All types of grass are different, they look different and Kentucky Blue grass is generally recognized by its boat shaped tips on its blades. It can grow to be two feet in height so do not forget to mow it frequently if you want a well trimmed lawn! You will find that it grows in spurts depending on how long the days are and so one month the grass could grow extremely quickly, whilst a couple of weeks later it could just stop for no apparent reason.
As for when to grow the grass, it tends to do better in late spring. However, it is entirely possible to plant the grass seeds earlier if needed. Just remember that usually you need around three pounds of seeds for every 1,000 square feet of land that you are planting it in. That will ensure that you get the best results possible for your lawn. As with other types of grass, Kentucky Blue does need some looking after once it has been planted. For example, it will need to be watered around two to three times per day once it has first been planted. This should be done for a couple of weeks approximately, though it obviously depends entirely upon the weather. As soon as you notice the seeds sprouting, you can then cut back on watering them.
If you are looking for a low maintenance grass then Kentucky Blue is definitely not for you. You will find that it needs a lot of water and so if you haven't got the time to water it you should not even consider it. If you simply do not water it as often as it needs it will die. It is thought that it needs at least two inches of water per week to stay fit and thriving.
Overall Kentucky Blue grass is really popular, it looks good, but it can be a little higher maintenance than some other types of grass. So, as long as you know what you are letting yourself in for, it can be a really good grass to have and it can make your lawn look fantastic.
Looking At 3 Types Of Grass That Thrive In The South
It is important to select a variety of grass that is suited to both the local conditions of your plot and the weather in the region where you live. If you consider these factors when picking the grass for your backyard you should wound up with a good looking lawn that does well and looks its best. Bermuda Grass, Centipede and Zoysia are three types known to flourish particularly well in the South so you may want to consider these for your plot if you live in this region.
1. Bermuda Grass
This is a type of grass can be invasive, and will take over your plot if not kept under control. It needs relatively little specialist care but needs warmth and good direct sunlight to thrive. If this is the case on your plot then this variety could work well for you: it is resilient, sturdy and grows fast in the right conditions. It's also relatively inexpensive.
2. Centipede
This type of grass usually thrives in areas where the soil is slightly acidic. It's ideal pH range is 4.5 – 5.5 – if this is the case in your backyard then this may be the grass for you. It requires very little specialist care but doesn't do traffic with heavy foot traffic. It can deal with some shade but will fare better in a sunny spot. Though it can do well in many areas where other types have struggled, it will not grow very fast and may require a yearly low nitrogen spring feed. The best feed ratio to go for is about 15-0-15, with the key factor being that it cannot withstand phosphorus.
3. Zoysia
Out of the 3 grasses that do best in the South, Zoysia is the one with the greater cold tolerance and easiest pH level. Providing your soil has a balanced pH around 6 to 7, Zoysia will reward you with a dense, dark green spread. It grows slowly if started from seed but should be available to purchase in rolls of sod. The main variety thrives best with direct sunlight but some sub-types, like the Emerald, can do well in shady areas. Though Zoysia can sustain short periods without water you need to keep an eye on the watering if the dry spell lasts over a week. It also needs twice-yearly feeds, in the spring and fall. Zoysia is a very attractive grass if you have enough time and energy to give it the tender, loving care it needs to do well.
These are but three varieties that are known to do well in the South but there are many more available: your local garden store should be able to advise you on a type well suited to the region. They also stock mixes that have been specially developed by grass seeds companies to thrive in special conditions: this may be your best option if you can't spend a lot of time researching types of grass.