Grass Guide: Kentucky Bluegrass
Give your yard the blues with classic, cool-season grass.
By:
Mick Telkamp
Image courtesy of Bayer CropScience
Thick, vibrant Kentucky bluegrass is a classic choice for homeowners.
Vibrant color and durability in heavily trafficked areas has made Kentucky bluegrass a popular choice for parks and home lawns since the mid-20th century. Though it is a slow grower in the heat of summer, this medium-textured, deeply green grass offers thick ground coverage and is commonly planted throughout much of the United States.
Climate
Grows best in cool to mixed climates. It is commonly planted throughout the northern, midwestern and mountain states.
Sun/Shade
Requires ample light and will falter in heavily shaded areas.
Water
Requires consistent and thoughtful watering. In drought conditions it will brown and enter dormancy until water conditions improve.
Pros:
- Thick and attractive coverage
- Cold weather tolerant and does well in full sunlight
- Durable and recovers quickly
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance
- Will go dormant in high temperature conditions
- Slow to germinate
- Does poorly in shaded or overly-wet conditions
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