Are you tired of staring at patchy, dry lawns that just won't grow? Look no further, as we've got just the solution for you. After conducting extensive research and testing, we've rounded up the top contenders for the title of the best grass seed for full sun.
According to the National Garden Bureau, sunny areas are ideal for grass growth as they require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, choosing the wrong type of grass seed can result in unsightly brown spots. That's why it's crucial to invest in the best grass seed for full sun, which will not only thrive under direct sunlight but also withstand heat and drought.
We took various factors into consideration, including durability, ease of maintenance, and overall appearance. Our top picks include a blend of Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass and Fine Fescues. Not only does this blend boast beautiful, lush and green grass, but it also requires less watering, making it environmentally friendly.
Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the benefits and drawbacks of each grass seed and help you choose the best option for your lush, sun-kissed lawn.
Zoysia
If you're looking for the best grass seed for full sun, then zoysia grass may just be what you're looking for! Zoysia is a warm-season grass that is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 10. This grass is renowned for its low growth rate, meaning it doesn't need to be mowed as often as other types of grass. Zoysia is relatively easy to find and takes a little bit of time to establish from seed, but it can be grown from sod.
One of the best things about zoysia is that it's one of the highest quality grasses available. It has a dense habit that crowds out weeds and diseases, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a beautiful and easy-to-care-for lawn. However, it's also slow-growing, and this can make it a more expensive option than other types of grass.
If you're looking for an excellent zoysia grass seed that's perfect for the transition zone, then you might want to consider Pennington Zenith Zoysia Grass Seed and Mulch. This warm-season grass is more cold-tolerant than Bermudagrass and retains its green color longer in the fall than other warm-season grasses. It greens up earlier in spring and is a great choice if you're looking for a hardy and beautiful lawn.
Another great option from Pennington is the Smart Seed Southern Sun and Shade Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix. This mix combines shade-tolerant grasses that thrive in just four to six hours of daily sun. It's perfect if your lawn gets a little bit of shade, and you still want it to look great.
If you're looking for a grass seed that thrives in dense shade, then you might want to try the Pennington Smart Seed Dense Shade Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix. This mix will thrive with just two hours of direct sun per day, according to Pennington's grass seed recommendations for Zone I lawns.
While zoysia is a great grass seed for full sun, it tends to go brown and dormant in winter in the South. The best time to plant cool-weather grasses is mid to late spring or late summer through early fall. If you're in a hot summer/mild winter area of the southern U.S., then the best time to plant zoysia is in late spring or early summer when temperatures average around 80 degrees.
In conclusion, zoysia grass is an excellent choice if you're looking for the best grass seed for full sun. Whether you choose Pennington Zenith Zoysia Grass Seed and Mulch or one of their Smart Seed options, you're sure to have a beautiful and easy-to-care-for lawn.
Tall fescue
When it comes to finding the best grass seed for full sun, one variety that stands out is the turf-type tall fescue. This grass seed is hardwearing and requires less upkeep than many other cool-season varieties, making it a great option for those who want a lush, green lawn without all the maintenance.
One of the benefits of turf-type tall fescue is its drought and heat tolerance, which allows it to thrive in hot, dry conditions. In addition, this grass seed forms a dense, green lawn that can withstand heavy foot traffic.
Tall fescue is a cool-season grass that has a deep root system, giving it great drought tolerance. It is also available in sod pieces and tolerates a bit of shade but shows a definite preference for full sun. For best results, this low-to-moderate maintenance grass should be cut to a height of 2" - 3".
When it comes to recommended grass seed blends from Pennington, the Smart Seed Perennial Ryegrass Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix is a great option for those in the Coastal Pacific Northwest who want improved grass varieties that conserve water, germinate quickly, and resist lawn diseases.
For West Coast growing conditions from northern California to the state's southern tip and East of the Cascade Mountain Range down through Nevada and Utah, the Rebels Tall Fescue Grass Seed Blend from Pennington offers tolerance to cold, heat, drought, and shade.
In Zone H lawns, which include the south-central US states, a heat-tolerant, cool-season tall fescue such as Pennington The Rebels Tall Fescue Grass Seed Blend is recommended. This blend withstands the region's heat and drought with 40% more roots than ordinary grasses.
For Zone G lawns in the central region states and the Midwest's heartland, Pennington Smart Seed Ohio Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix and Pennington Smart Seed Pennsylvania Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix provide a drought-tolerant, disease-resistant mix of fine fescues, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass ideal for cool-season lawns.
Meanwhile, for Zone C lawns, drought-tolerant tall fescue grasses such as Pennington The Rebels Tall Fescue Grass Seed Blend stand up to the zone's challenges especially well. Fine fescues with exceptional cold and shade tolerance also excel, particularly at higher elevations.
Vigoro's seed coating for its tall fescue seed helps retain moisture and prevent disease during the germination period. You'll appreciate the grass's ability to tolerate heavy foot traffic, but on the downside, it is not drought-resistant. Sow the seed and top it with a seed-starting fertilizer, and then water daily until the seedlings are at least two inches tall.
Proper soil preparation should be done before planting grass seed, and keeping freshly sown grass seed watered is crucial to ensure germination. Remember that the best time to sow grass seeds is from late summer to early autumn when soil and air temperatures are warm and moist.
While Pennington's various grass seed blends are excellent options for different growing zones and conditions, tall fescue remains a solid choice for those looking for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and heat-resistant grass seed that can form a dense, green lawn in full sun.
Kentucky bluegrass
Kentucky Bluegrass is quickly becoming one of the most popular types of grass seed for full sun lawns. In cooler regions, this hardwearing, drought tolerant variety has become a preferred option due to its ability to establish quickly from seed and its premier status as a sod grass in the northern U.S.
One of the best things about Kentucky Bluegrass is its ability to withstand high traffic areas, making it an ideal option for families and pet owners. While it is a bit higher maintenance and not quite as drought tolerant as other varieties like tall fescue, it can still make a stunning lawn when properly cared for.
For those looking to establish a lawn on a shorter timetable, sod pieces are recommended over seed. However, for those willing to put in the time and care, Kentucky Bluegrass seed is a great option.
Pennington Smart Seed Pacific Northwest Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix combines Kentucky Bluegrass with other cool-season grasses like fine fescues and tall fescue for a healthy, balanced lawn in the Pacific Northwest. This mix is recommended for Zone D and E lawns in cooler regions with cold winters and cool summers.
For lawns in the northeast, Pennington Smart Seed Northeast Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix is a great option. This mix combines Kentucky Bluegrass varieties with other cool-season grasses like perennial ryegrass and fine fescues for a durable, cold-tolerant lawn.
In the transition zone, where the climate is diverse, Pennington Smart Seed Southern Sun and Shade Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix is recommended. This mix of Kentucky Bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescues is designed to thrive in both shade and sun, making it an ideal option for homeowners in the transition zone.
Scotts Turf Builder Midwest Mix is another great option for those in the Midwest. This mix of bluegrass, fescue, and perennial ryegrass is optimal for northern climates and can tolerate high heat and drought. Its protective coating holds in water, provides nutrients, and wards off disease to help promote germination.
In conclusion, Kentucky Bluegrass is a fantastic option for those looking for a hardwearing, drought tolerant grass seed for full sun lawns. Whether you choose a mix or pure seed, the key is proper care and maintenance to ensure a healthy, lush lawn.
Bermudagrass
If you're searching for an ideal grass seed to flourish your full-sun lawn, then Bermuda Grass might just be the right one for you. This warm-season grass is known for its hearty growth, quick filling of bare areas, and drought tolerance. The grass seed is a top choice in the southern regions of the United States, especially Zone J, south of the central 'transition zone.'
One of the most popular Bermuda Grass options on the market is the Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass Seed and Fertilizer Mix. It is a fast-germinating seed that also offers exceptional tolerance to heat, drought, and heavy traffic for California's central and southern regions.
Overseeding with Perennial Ryegrasses or Pennington Annual Ryegrass Grass Seed in the fall will also help keep the winter grass green. Centipede grass and Bahiagrass are recommended for areas of high heat and humidity, especially for those looking for fine texture and drought resistance, respectively.
Scotts Bermudagrass Seed also has a water-absorbing coating to assist with germination while also offering protection against disease and providing nutrients. A 1-pound bag can cover 1,000 square feet when overseeding an existing lawn or up to 300 square feet for a new lawn.
Bermudagrass is a great option for high-traffic areas as it can withstand even heavy foot traffic. It is best suited for hot summers and mild winters, making it optimal for hot and dry areas in the South. It should be mowed at a height of 0.5" to 2.5" for the best appearance.
For those with a shady lawn, Pennington Smart Seed Dense Shade Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix is a suitable option that can thrive with two to six hours of daily sun.
In conclusion, bermudagrass is an excellent choice for those wanting a quick-growing, durable, and drought-tolerant lawn. When looking for the best grass seed for full sun, be sure to consider all the options available and pick the one that suits your specific needs. Remember, the best time to plant warm-season grasses, including bermudagrass, is late spring or early summer when temperatures average around 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Questions you might be asking
What is full sun?
Full sun refers to areas that receive direct sun exposure for 6 or more hours per day.
What type of grass is best for full sun?
Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and St. Augustine grass are the most suitable for full sun conditions.
How do I choose the best grass seed for my lawn?
Consider factors such as your climate, soil type, and irrigation system. Choose a seed that is suitable for your region and the sun exposure of your lawn.
How do I prepare my lawn for planting grass seed?
Clear the area of debris, till the soil, and remove any weeds or unwanted grass. Level the soil and ensure proper drainage.
When should I plant grass seed for full sun?
The optimal time to plant grass seed for full sun is during the early spring or early fall when the temperatures are cooler.
How often should I water newly planted grass seed in full sun?
Water the grass seed regularly, but avoid overwatering which can lead to fungal growth. Generally, watering once a day for the first two weeks is sufficient.
How long will it take for the grass seed to germinate in full sun?
Germination times may vary depending on the type of seed you use, but it typically takes about 10-14 days for the grass to begin sprouting.
Can I use fertilizer on newly planted grass seed in full sun?
Yes, but it is essential to choose a fertilizer that is suitable for your type of grass and to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Apply the fertilizer after the grass has started to sprout.
What is the best grass seed for heat and drought?
The best grass seed for heat and drought conditions is usually a mix of warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and Bahia grass. These grass varieties are highly tolerant of extreme heat, drought, and high sun exposure. They have deep root systems and are able to retain water better than other grass types, making them the perfect choice for hot and dry climates.
What grass grows best in extreme heat?
There are several grass types that are well adapted to extreme heat conditions. Warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and Bahia grass are able to thrive in hot and dry regions. Buffalo grass is another great option as it's not only hardy but also requires significantly less water than other grasses.
What grass is easiest to grow from seed?
If you're looking for an easy and hassle-free way to grow your own lawn, then consider planting fescue grass. Fescue is a cool-season grass that grows well in a variety of climates and soil types. It has a short germination period and can be sown in any season except for the winter. Other easy-to-grow grasses include ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and St. Augustine grass.
What is the best grass seed for all seasons?
If you're looking for a grass variety that can provide year-round coverage and is adaptable to different seasons, then a mix of different grass types can be your best bet. A mix of cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass and ryegrass, along with warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass can provide a lush, green lawn for all seasons with little maintenance. Additionally, fine fescues are also a great option as they are able to grow in a range of climates and soil types.
Sources we used in this research
-https://extension.umd.edu/resource/grass-seed
-https://www.jonathangreen.com/resources/full-sun-grass-seed.html