The Best Grass For Shady Yards In California

California may be known for its sunny weather, but that doesn’t mean your yard enjoys a ton of UV rays. That’s okay, as there are an array of grass species that are made in the shade.

Of course, you’ll also want to select a variety that will thrive in our state’s warm climate. Here’s everything you need to know to create a lush, green yard this season.

Best Grass For Shaded Areas

Most of us know from experience that grass grows the fullest in sunny areas. But when that’s not an option, there are particular species that can still take root in shady areas.

You’ll also want to take your climate into consideration. Here in warm California, Zoysia, Bahiagrass and Centipede are good choices. Zenith Zoysia is a warm-weather grass but can also stand the cold, and it keeps its green longer. It may establish more slowly than other types of lawn grass. It’s a perennial species that sometimes turns brown in cooler months, but it’s the first to turn green come spring.

Bahiagrass is a low-maintenance turf. Though it prefers full sun, its naturally deep root system is resilient. It establishes well and grows low, which makes it ideal for shady areas in warm climates. Centipede is known for its superior heat tolerance, and it has a moderate shade tolerance. It prefers hot conditions and acidic, sandy soils. Water frequently due to its low root systems.

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Meanwhile, cooler climates call for types like Fine Fescues, Tall Fescues and Ryegrass. Fine Fescues are the best type for heavy shade, and they prefer drier soils. Tall Fescues, meanwhile, do well in shade but have an improved heat tolerance. This makes them ideal for a wide range of climates. Ryegrass does prefer the sun but can tolerate shade and is the best to grow with at least four hours of partial sun a day.

Grass Alternatives

If you have a heavy wooded area with very minimal sunlight, you might consider an ornamental grass alternative. Some options include Periwinkle, Sedge, Wintergreen, Hostas, Painted Ferns, and Colorful Coleus.

Help Grass Grow In Shade

Though selecting the right grass will put you in the right direction, there are also things you can do to help your grass thrive in the shade. Make sure to plant the best sod, and trim your trees to allow as much light through as possible. Keep an eye on your soil’s pH, and mow higher than you normally might—this will allow grass blades to reach more sun. Then, keep an eye on your irrigation and fertilization schedules and adjust as needed.

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