The Best Grass To Grow In Washington, DC

Washington, DC, tends to have rainy summers. But we can also see weeks without a drop accompanied by hot, hot days. During dryer times, you can water your grass to keep it green or set an automatic sprinkler. But if you're trying to conserve energy this summer, a more versatile grass species might be a better answer.

Thankfully, there are many grass species that don't require much water. Some do better in hot climates and others can handle variation. Here's how to pick the best type of grass to plant in your yard.

Best Drought-Tolerant Grass Species

The first thing to do is to select the best type of grass for your specific location and circumstance. Here are the pros and cons to leading types of grass.

• Bermuda Grass: This species loves sun but requires frequent mowing.
• St. Augustine: This is the most drought-tolerant type, but it prefers dappled sunlight.
• Buffalo Grass: This can withstand (and prefers) full sun, but it grows slowly.
• Fescues: Best for cool climates, this type needs moist soil until established.
• Ryegrass: Best wear tolerance for trafficked areas, but it can tend to clump.
• Bentgrass: This resilient and attractive species requires cool nighttime temperatures.

Need a landscaper to help plant new grass seed? Find a pro in your area.

Best Grass For Hot Weather

Ready for a steamy summer? Make sure your grass is too by selecting the right species for your region and amount of sunlight in your yard. Bermuda grass loves full sun, and is ideal for hot and dry areas like southern California. St. Augustine has a maximum tolerance for dehydration, but it can’t handle full sunlight.

In the northern part of our state, Buffalo grass can handle extreme summers and also does well in the winter. But it prefers heavier clay soil and limited rainfall. It tends to grow lower than other grasses, but for this reason is low maintenance.

Best Grass For Cool Weather

A species like Fescues is great for varying climates, since it is tolerant to heat and drought but also stays green during the winter. Ryegrass is great for pastures, as it grows rapidly. It can also stand up to heavy traffic, if your “pastures” are overrun by children.

Bentgrass is often found on golf courses and fields, with its dense mat. It requires cool nighttime temperatures to flourish, however.

Consider Grass Alternatives

If you’re really looking to live a low-impact lifestyle, consider grass alternatives like moss, sedum and thyme. These options keep your yard looking green and can reduce water consumption.

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