Selecting seed for your yard can be an intimidating and daunting task. The first thing you'll need to consider is the lay of your lawn, shade versus sunlight, and the amount of water your yard typically receives. Most commercial seeds are formulated for sun and shade, but if you're lawn will receive less than three hours of light, or you're planting under trees, you may want to consider a specialty seed.

Kentucky bluegrass is a top choice for grass. There are years when it is difficult to find. One downside to bluegrass is its need for a midsummer rest period. Kentucky bluegrass will also stain your clothing more easily than other grasses, but it is a hearty, easy to grow grass that will resist weeds.

For small lawns or gardens, you can consider a 'bent' grass. Colonial bent is a widely used choice. It thrives under less than stellar conditions and is low growing. It will spread quickly and requires frequent grooming and top-dress.

If you're looking for a combination, Redtop combines very well with Kentucky bluegrass because its rest period is different from that of bluegrass. Another plus to Redtop is that it will not stain your clothes.

Chewings fescue is a shade grass. It matures late in season and resists midsummer drought conditions. It will grow well in acidic soils and is also great in the fight against weeds.

Rye grass is a plus for new lawns. It's tough and quick growing that helps keep out weeds while the lawn grows.

Bermuda grass will grow well in sandy areas and is commonly used in the South.

Some people like look of clover in their grass, others find it a nuisance. The plus to clover is its ability to grow in poor soil and it typically prevents weed growth. The downside is that it tends to look patchy and sports white blossoms.

Generally, mixing grasses will provide a more satisfying look. Varying grasses are active during different times of the year and will keep your lawn in continual lushness. Mixtures also tend to fair better against weeds than do single seed grasses.

If you're not content to grow grass by planting grass seed in spring, you should consider alternate ground cover. Juniper, wild trailing rose, and evergreen vines make excellent ground cover in areas where mowing would be difficult or a unique landscape design is desired.

Lily of the valley and sandwort are also excellent ground covers that will add to the appearance of your lawn.

Whatever your choice for the look of your lawn, educating yourself on the options as to what plants do you really desire and when to plant them on spring or at other time will guarantee that you get the most bang for your buck and may even allow you to grow the best looking lawn on the street!