Is the grass around your home or commercial property looking less than its best? If so, this could be due to a lack of care and maintenance, or in some cases, the incorrect grass varieties may have been planted in your yard. With Illinois being classified as a zone 5 growing area, it’s essential that the correct grasses be planted if you want them to look lush and green. Below are some of the best types of grass to plant in the Illinois area.

Kentucky bluegrass

This is by far one of the most popular grass varieties being used in many parts of Illinois, mainly because it’s extremely hard, highly appealing to the eye and it recovers quite quickly. Most varieties of Kentucky bluegrass will however require fairly high levels of maintenance over time in the form of fertilizing and regular watering, and while many varieties of this grass prefer full sun, a few of them have been known to tolerate light shade.

Buffalo grass

Buffalo grass forms quite a dense turf and thick sod and it is known to spread quite extensively by means of its horizontal, root-forming stems. One of the main advantages of this grass is that it requires very little watering and fertilizing – too much of either of these will in fact encourage weeds to grow. Although standard Buffalo grass often has a fairly short growth period in zone 5, newer varieties have since become available that are able to establish themselves quicker.

Perennial ryegrasses

These are bunching varieties of grass that are compatible with bluegrass, don’t form thatch, are considered to be drought-resistant, and have quite good tolerance to heat. Although these grasses are best suited for full sun areas, they have been known to tolerate small amounts of shade. Perennial ryegrasses provide an aesthetically appealing dark green color to yards and its fine texture makes it easy to mow and maintain.

Purple Love grass

This native bunchgrass forms tight, neat clumps and it spreads by means of underground rhizomes and the sheer amount of seeds that it drops onto the ground. Purple love grass is finely textured and remains green throughout spring and summer while becoming covered with purple seed-containing plumage. When fall arrives, its leaves change color to purple and the flowers to white. This grass prefers full sun exposure but has been known to grow in partial shade as well.

Caring for your Grass

Most grass varieties will require watering and fertilizing from time to time, and property owners who aren’t sure how to best maintain the grasses they have should consult with a professional gardener or landscaper. This will help ensure that they receive the correct advice, which will in turn provide them with the beautiful gardens and yards they desire.

 

Are you a homeowner or property manager who is keen to learn more about caring for the grass and plants that have been entrusted to you? If so, contact our team today. We will be more than happy to assist you in any way possible.