Vermont’s climate, with its cold, snowy winters and warm, inviting summers, is perfect for cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass.
Each of these grasses brings something different to the table, whether it’s shade tolerance, drought resistance, or the ability to handle heavy foot traffic. Understanding these differences will help you pick the perfect grass to match your lawn’s needs and your lifestyle.
In this article, we will cover the best grass seed for your Vermont lawn:
Kentucky bluegrass: Best grass for harsh winters
Kentucky bluegrass is a favorite among Vermonters for its rich, dark green color and the dense appearance it gives your lawn. It grows during the cooler months of spring and fall and can withstand harsh winters, making it ideal for Vermont’s northern areas like Newport.
This grass is soft underfoot, perfect for families with kids and pets who love to play outside. However, if your yard is shaded by trees, Kentucky bluegrass might struggle, as it prefers plenty of sunlight. It’s also a high-maintenance grass that requires regular fertilization and watering to look its best.
Here are some guides to help you know more about this grass type:
Grass Seed Options:
– Jonathan Green (11970) Blue Panther Kentucky Bluegrass Grass Seed (3 lbs.)
– SeedRanch Midnight Kentucky Bluegrass Seed (5 lbs.)
Fine fescue: Best grass seed for shade
Fine fescue is the softest of all cool-season grasses, making it a good choice for those who want a velvety lawn. It’s well-suited for Vermont’s medium-shade areas, where it can thrive without too much sun.
While fine fescues aren’t built to handle heavy foot traffic, they shine in other ways. They are drought-resistant and can establish themselves in Vermont’s acidic soils. It is low-maintenance, requiring less watering and fertilization compared to other cool-season grasses. However, it is vulnerable to summer patches and lawn grubs.
Here’s a guide on “Fine Fescue: How to Grow and Care for It”.
Grass Seed Options:
– Outsidepride Legacy Fine Fescue Grass Seed (5 lbs.)
– Eretz Creeping Red Fine Fescue Seed (choose your size)
– Outsidepride Creeping Red Fine Fescue Grass Seed (25 lbs.)
Tall fescue: Best grass seed for poor soil
Tall fescue is a great grass choice for Vermont lawns, especially if your yard has challenging soil. It grows well in both full sun and medium shade, making it versatile for different spots around your home. Thanks to its extensive root system, tall fescue is highly drought-resistant, so it can handle the occasional missed watering without any issues.
However, keep in mind that this grass grows quickly, so you’ll need to mow often to keep it looking neat and tidy.
Check this article about “Tall Fescue: How to Grow and Care for It”.
Grass Seed Options:
– Triple-Play Tall Fescue Grass Seed Blend (5000 sq ft)
– Eretz Kentucky 31 K31 Tall Fescue Grass Seed (choose your size)
– Pennington The Rebels Tall Fescue Grass Seed Mix (7 lb.)
Perennial ryegrass: Best grass seed for overseeding
Perennial ryegrass is a fast-growing grass that’s perfect if you’re looking to overseed. Since it grows low, you won’t need to mow as often as with other grasses, which is a nice bonus. This grass is often mixed with other grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or fine fescue for a more resilient lawn.
However, perennial ryegrass doesn’t handle foot traffic well and isn’t a good choice for shaded areas. If you live in northern Vermont, you might want to think twice before planting it, as it can be damaged or even die during the harsh winter months. It’s also susceptible to diseases.
Check this article about “Perennial Ryegrass: How to Grow and Care for It”.
Grass Seed Options:
– Outsidepride Perennial Ryegrass Seed (5 lbs.)
– Eretz ProTurf Perennial Ryegrass Fine Lawn Seed (choose your size)
FAQ
When is the best time to plant grass seed in Vermont?
The ideal time to plant grass seed in Vermont is around Labor Day. This allows the grass to establish itself before winter sets in. Here’s a detailed guide on When to Plant Grass Seed in Vermont.
How is Vermont’s soil?
Vermont’s soil is primarily characterized by the Tunbridge soil series, which is the official state soil. This type of soil is loamy and acidic.
What USDA hardiness zone is Vermont in?
Vermont falls primarily within USDA Hardiness Zones 4a and 6a. The northern and higher elevation areas of the state, such as the Green Mountains, are in zone 4a. In this zone winters can be harsh. The southern and lower elevation areas, including Brattleboro, are in 6a where the climate is slightly milder. Check here the details of the Growing Zones of Vermont.
Contact a pro to help you
Vermont’s cold winters and warm summers make for a beautiful place to call home, and the right grass can help your lawn thrive in every season. If you’re unsure what grass seed to choose or need help with your lawn, contact a local lawn care pro, they can help you turn your yard into a space you’ll love year-round.
More lawn care and landscaping resources for Vermont:
- Vermont Native Plants for Landscaping
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Main Image Credit: Doug Kerr | Flickr | CC BY-SA 2.0
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