Take a look at your grass! Did you know that there are several types of grasses in PA? Many people are surprised to know there are different grass varieties, including those that can be grown in cool or warm weather. Grass in the state can vary. Once you know what type of grass is in your yard, you can provide better care for it. Here is a brief overview of the most common types of grass in Pennsylvania.
What Grass Type in PA Do I Have?
If you want to care for your lawn properly, you need to know about the type of grass growing throughout your property. In Pennsylvania, there are about four common types of grasses. You might have one species or a combination of them in your yard.
Kentucky Bluegrass
Residential lawns usually consist of Kentucky bluegrass. This attractive species features a medium to dark green color, and it is known for its fine texture. Many people choose this species because it is durable, dense, and lush. It can perform well in a variety of soils, and this grass loves those sunny spots.
Perennial Ryegrass
This particular grass is known for its fast germination rate, and it has a dark green color. Plus, you cannot beat its fine to medium texture. Over time, the perennial ryegrass will spread slowly throughout your yard. You might see clumps of this grass growing in your yard. Perennial ryegrass is prized for its hardiness and disease resistance. However, perennial ryegrass has high maintenance needs in the form of frequent waterings and heavy fertilizers.
Fine Fescue
While fine fescue might seem like a single variety, it is actually composed of several species, including the Creeping red fescue. This grass variety is also maintenance-free, and it will produce a stunning medium to dark green color for your lawn. This is another fine-textured grass for your yard. It is the perfect choice for those lawns that don’t receive a ton of sunshine.
Turf Type Tall Fescue
Finally, turf type tall fescues are the most drought tolerant of all the grasses in Pennsylvania. This species develops into a deep rich green color. This fescue can adapt to plenty of soil conditions throughout the state, and you will see it in most lawns across the Northeast.
Problem Grasses
Along with those common grass species, you might notice a few intruders in your yard. Grassy weeds have the appearance of grass, but they can invade and compete with your cool-season grasses for nutrients. If these grasses are in your yard, you need to remove them immediately. Once they have become established, it can be challenging to get them out of your yard.
Crabgrass is one type of problematic grass. It grows in clumps, and you will typically find it in spots with thinned-out grass. This species of weed is very aggressive, and it can spread throughout your yard. You might be able to control it with a pre-emergent. However, in some cases, you could need professional help to rid your yard of this weed.
Nutsedge is another perennial weed. If you have any moist areas of your yard, you might notice it rapidly spreading in the warm weather. Any grasses that stick out above the turf could be nutsedge. Since it grows with underground tubes, it can be difficult to remove without special tools and chemicals.
Rough bluegrass has a lighter color than its Kentucky bluegrass cousin, but this grass is considered a weed. You will usually see it in the early spring, where it rapidly spreads throughout your yard. By the summertime, the heat will kill it off. With that, there is no need to remove it by yourself.
Another tall fescue is known as Kentucky 31. This species is a perennial grass, but due to the fact it grows in clumps, it is very poor lawn grass. The Kentucky 31 features wide blades and coarse texture. You can see this grass growing throughout the year.
Finally, the orchardgrass is another pesky grassy weed that you might encounter in your yard. If you see light green or blue spots in your grass, it could be a sign of this weed. In the spring, the orchardgrass will flourish.
In many cases, these grassy weeds will die off by themselves. However, there are a few things that you can do to keep away these undesirable species. Overseeding and aeration are great ways to boost the health of your lawn. When your lawn is healthy, there is no room for those grassy weeds to develop. Results will not be seen overnight. It may take a season or two to see improvements in a very unhealthy lawn. When the lawn is strengthened and thickened, it can reduce the chances of those unwanted grassy species taking root in your yard.
Choosing the Best Grass Types for PA
If you are looking for the best grass species that will thrive in Pennsylvania, the turf type tall fescue is one of the best options. These grasses will keep weeds at bay while providing some spectacular color for your lawn. For those who need help choosing a suitable variety for your yard, a commercial lawn care service has options for you. They consider many things, including budget, maintenance needs, and soil quality. With all that information, these professionals can find the ideal grass species for your space.
Now that you know the most popular types of grasses in Pennsylvania, you want to find the best ways to care for and treat them. Specific grass species have particular needs. When you understand that, you will have a healthy and lush lawn for your property.
Commercial Lawn Care Services
If you need help with your commercial property, make sure to contact Charlestown Landscaping LLC. We have experience with all the varieties of grasses in the Pennsylvania area. With the proper care and maintenance, you will never have to worry about diseases and pests. Let us handle all of your landscaping and lawn care needs. You can schedule a consultation by calling (610) 608-3965.