What’s the Difference Between Cool-Season and Warm-Season Grass?

Grass can be complicated. There are many types of grasses, but not all grow at the same rate. There are two main types of grass you should be concerned with, cool season and warm season. The primary differences between these two are their growth cycle and climate preferences. Cool-season grasses are ideal for cooler climates and experience peak growth in spring and fall. Warm-season grasses, on the other hand, are suited for warmer climates and thrive in the heat of summer. Here’s a look at each type of grass in more detail and how to best care for them.

Cool-Season Grasses

Cool-season grasses include Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, perennial ryegrass, and bentgrass. These grasses thrive in cooler temperatures, typically between 60°F and 75°F. They grow best in regions with cold winters and mild summers, such as the northern United States, Canada, and similar climates.

Cool-season grasses grow actively in the spring and fall when temperatures are cooler. They may become dormant in extreme summer heat but recover well when temperatures drop.  Cool season grasses often have a lush, green appearance in cooler months and can remain green longer into fall and winter in some regions.

Cool-season grasses require proper care. Water in the mornings. Cool-season grasses need about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Watering deeply helps the grass grow deeper roots and become more drought resistant. Fertilize during the cooler months when the grass grows the most. You can test your soil to see if you need to add fertilizer. Aeration can help distribute excess water if your lawn drains poorly. Aerate in the fall to help the grass roots get more oxygen, water, and nutrients.

Warm-Season Grasses

Warm-season grasses prefer warmer temperatures, generally between 80°F and 95°F. They grow best in hot, humid, or dry climates, such as the southern United States, the Mediterranean, and tropical regions.

Warm season grasses actively grow during late spring and summer. Warm-season grasses tend to be more drought-tolerant and resilient to high temperatures. However, they require a period of dormancy in cooler months. They go dormant and turn brown typically in late fall through early spring. Common types include Bermuda grass, zoysia grass, St. Augustine grass, and buffalo grass.

Warm-season grasses need sunlight to thrive. Some need as many as eight hours of full sun per day. Warm-season grasses should be watered early in the morning with 1 inch of water per week. Fertilize warm-season grasses in early June and mid-July. Use a nitrogen-only fertilizer.

Contact All Star Landscaping for Lawn Care & Maintenance Today

Caring for grass should not be complicated, but first, you need to know what type of grass you have. At All Star Landscaping, we know all the tricks for lawn maintenance, whether you have cool-season or warm-season grass.

Don’t have the time or energy to keep your lawn in tip-top shape? We can help. We help our clients in St. Louis County keep their yards looking its best throughout the winter, spring, summer, and fall. Get a quote today by calling (314) 568-6332 or filling out the online form.