Lawn Grass, Selecting

Consider your preferences before selecting…

Time, energy, dsease and insect proneness are just a few of the things you must consider before purchasing seed or sod.

Careful selection of the proper grass is a must for successful establishment of any lawn. Study your lawn area and choose an adapted grass suited to your situation.

Things you should consider are:

• the amount and density of shade,
• personal preference as to texture,
• the amount of traffic your lawn gets, and
• the time you can devote to taking care of the lawn.

In south Georgia…

You may select from five adapted lawn grasses: St. Augustine, centipede, zoysia, bermuda and carpet grass.

In general, St. Augustine and zoysia grasses must be established by sprigging or pluging. Centipede grass may be established in this manner or by using seed. Common bermuda grass is established by using seed, hybrid bermuda grass by sprigging or plugging. Carpet grass is established by using seed.

Shaded conditions will be tolerated by St. Augustine, zoysia and centipede grass. Bermuda grass and carpet grass will not tolerate shade.

St. Augustine is susceptible to the diseases brown patch and St. Augustine decline. It's also susceptible to chinch bugs. A new variety of St. Augustine, called Floratam, resists St. Augustine decline and is reported to have some resistance to chinch bugs. It's a vigorous, coarse-textured grass that should only be planted in the coastal areas because of freeze damage.

Centipede grass is susceptible to the disease brown patch. Zoysia grass is susceptible to the rust diseases. Centipede is the most popular lawn grass now, followed by St. Augustine.

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of these adapted grasses and choose the one that fits your needs best.

For more information on selecting lawn grass, contact your local County Extension Office.