As the weather warms up, homeowners and garden enthusiasts in Los Angeles are gearing up to spruce up their lawns. With so many options available, it can be daunting to choose the best grass seed for the job. That's why we've scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive review of the top-performing grass seed for Los Angeles.
We've considered factors such as drought tolerance, heat resistance, and sustainability to bring you a selection of options that are sure to thrive in the SoCal sun. Whether you're in the market for a fine fescue, Bermuda, or St. Augustine grass, we've got you covered. Get ready to say hello to a lush, green lawn that's the envy of the neighborhood with our top picks for the best grass seed for Los Angeles.
Also read: Best grass seed for livestock
Bermudagrass
In the realm of grasses that can brave the intense Los Angeles climate, Bermudagrass stands out as a seasoned veteran. This warm-season grass is no stranger to LA homeowners and has proven its mettle in the city's diverse landscapes, much like a seasoned actor who delivers a stellar performance, irrespective of the role or scene.
Bermudagrass exhibits a high level of wearability, mirroring the resilience of a marathon runner on a rugged trail. It establishes quickly, akin to an ambitious startup launching in a competitive market. However, it does come with its share of challenges. It develops thatch quickly and requires more watering than some homeowners may find feasible, akin to a high-performance car that necessitates regular maintenance and ample fuel.
Like any organism adapting to its environment, Bermudagrass spreads by stolons and rhizomes, making its presence known even in adverse conditions. Despite its low shade tolerance, it exhibits high drought and foot traffic tolerance. This is much like an athlete who excels in harsh conditions, undeterred by the unrelenting sun or the constant trampling of spectators.
Bermudagrass grows fast and needs frequent mowing, much like a fast-growing startup requiring regular reviews and adjustments to stay on track. With a mowing height of 1-2.5 inches and a requirement for regular fertilization, it demands a certain level of care and attention.
In terms of disease potential, Bermudagrass plays in the moderate zone. However, it's like a disciplined soldier that goes into dormancy when temperatures start to drop, preserving its energy for the warmer days.
There are several cultivars of Bermudagrass, including Common Bermuda, TifSport, and Grimes EXP, each with its own set of characteristics, akin to different models of a popular car brand, each catering to a specific set of customer preferences.
Bermudagrass is a popular choice for areas with high foot and vehicular traffic, including lawns, turfs, parks, and golf courses. Its ability to grow in just about any soil type and its low maintenance requirements make it a practical choice for the busy LA homeowner. However, like an invasive species, it should be prevented from spreading to flower beds.
Despite the benefits of Bermudagrass, native grasses often hold up better to Los Angeles' challenging conditions, much like local businesses that understand and cater to the unique needs of the community.
A mention of Bermudagrass and its maintenance in Los Angeles wouldn't be complete without highlighting the services of LawnStarter. Their skilled technicians can provide personally-tailored lawn care in Los Angeles, ensuring that your Bermudagrass lawn remains a lush, green oasis in the city's concrete jungle.
California Buffalograss
California Buffalograss, previously known as "UC Verde" buffalograss, is a California native that is as adaptable and resilient as the people of Los Angeles themselves. This grass has been specifically cultivated to offer an alternative lawn option for homeowners and landscapers, providing a reliable solution like a trusty Swiss army knife in a survival kit.
One of its distinguishing characteristics is its exceptional drought tolerance, akin to a cactus thriving in an arid desert. Its dense growth habit makes it resistant to weeds, similar to a well-organized system warding off disruptive elements. What sets California Buffalograss apart is that it requires few or no chemical treatments for fungus or insects, much like a naturally immune organism that requires no external vaccines.
This warm-season grass is like an experienced surfer riding the high summer waves with ease. It spreads by stolons and exhibits low shade tolerance, much like a sun-loving beachgoer who thrives under the radiant Californian sun. Its moderate foot traffic tolerance and low maintenance needs make it a practical choice for the busy LA homeowner.
On the health front, California Buffalograss stands strong, much like a fortified castle with a low potential for disease. It hibernates in the winter, going dormant and brown, similar to a bear preserving its energy during the colder months. However, a biodegradable green colorant can be used to keep it green in winter, much like a warm coat preserving the vibrant spirit of a person in chilly weather.
In terms of water efficiency, California Buffalograss sets the bar high. It uses up to 75% less water compared to other turfgrasses once established, acting like a hybrid vehicle that maximizes fuel efficiency. It seeds itself, making it a solid option for homeowners who prefer not to engage in frequent reseeding. This grass also grows to short heights, requiring no regular mowing, akin to a low-maintenance pet that doesn't need constant grooming.
However, like every hero with a flaw, California Buffalograss can be damaged by heavy objects or pressure and doesn't hold up well to frequent traffic, much like a busy highway that develops potholes over time. It's also not the best choice for areas with heavy clay soils or poor drainage.
California Buffalograss is an ideal choice for regions such as the Southwest desert, Intermountain West, Pacific Southwest, and Southwest transitional regions. It's a good option for hot, dry climates, and can handle full sun all day long, as well as partial shade. It's like the versatile actor who can take on any role, from a sun-soaked beach scene to a cool, shaded forest.
In the final analysis, California Buffalograss is a champion grass for Los Angeles homeowners, proving that even in the face of a challenging climate, there's always a way to maintain a beautiful, lush lawn.
St. Augustinegrass
St. Augustinegrass, a popular warm-season turf, has become an attractive choice for Los Angeles homeowners for its ability to create low-traffic lawns that are as vibrant and full as a California orange grove. This grass thrives in full sun, much like LA's sun-soaked beaches, but it can also adapt to warm-season lawns with partial shade, akin to a versatile actor adjusting to different lighting conditions on a film set.
St. Augustinegrass's dense growth habit is its secret weapon, helping it crowd out weeds and produce a full-looking lawn, as if creating a dense green carpet over your property. However, it develops thatch which can harbor insect issues, making regular dethatching as crucial as routine pest control in a bustling city restaurant.
Living in LA, you know the unpredictability of the weather. St. Augustinegrass shares this trait, being prone to winter injury and thus, is only grown in areas with mild winters. One can think of it as a tropical plant that prefers the gentle kiss of the winter sun over a harsh frostbite.
One downside is that St. Augustinegrass isn't available as seed; it's like an exclusive club where access is granted only via sod or plugs. Despite this, it boasts a shade tolerance that ranges from moderate to high, depending on the cultivar and level of water and nutrients. Its drought tolerance is moderate, akin to an experienced marathon runner who can endure long stretches without water.
Foot traffic tolerance ranges from low to moderate, meaning it may not be the ideal choice for a backyard soccer field. Maintenance needs are moderate, requiring a high level of nitrogen and perhaps an iron supplement, much like an athlete's carefully balanced diet. Mowing height should be 2-4 inches depending on the cultivar, and should be on the higher side to prevent weed invasion, much like a watchtower erected to ward off intruders.
While St. Augustinegrass is not as disease-prone as in the Southeast, insects can pose a challenge. Regular removal of excess thatch is necessary to avoid problems with chinch bugs and other pests. Over-fertilizing or over-irrigating can lead to disease, much like overindulgence can lead to ill health.
However, St. Augustinegrass has one surprising strength: its ability to handle salt air better than most, making it a coastal warrior. This grass is like a stunning blue-green canvas, creating a lush, velvety appearance that's suitable for residential and commercial applications, including golf courses, putting greens, and tees.
In terms of temperature tolerance, it can manage temperatures as low as -7°C (20°F) once established, making it ideal for Southern California lawns with their hot climate. However, it's not completely drought-tolerant and requires regular watering, like a thirsty traveler in the desert.
In summary, St. Augustinegrass may not be the best choice for public parks or areas with heavy foot traffic. It's not the most drought-tolerant of warm-season turfgrasses, but for homeowners in Los Angeles looking to create an attractive, low-traffic lawn that can handle the city's heat and partial shade, it's a contender worth considering.
Questions you might be asking
What is the best grass seed for Los Angeles?
The best grass seed for Los Angeles is a blend of warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass, St. Augustine grass, and Zoysia grass.
When is the best time to plant grass seed in Los Angeles?
The best time to plant grass seed in Los Angeles is during the warm months between April and September when the soil temperature is at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
How often should I water my grass seed in Los Angeles?
Water your grass seed in Los Angeles deeply and frequently, at least 1 inch of water per week, particularly during the first few weeks after planting until the grass is established.
How long does it take for grass seed to grow in Los Angeles?
It takes between 7 and 14 days for grass seed to germinate in Los Angeles, depending on the type of grass seed and the weather conditions.
How do I prepare the soil before planting grass seed in Los Angeles?
Before planting grass seed in Los Angeles, you should remove all weeds and rocks, loosen the soil, and add organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure and fertility.
Can I use a lawn fertilizer with my grass seed in Los Angeles?
Yes, using a lawn fertilizer with your grass seed in Los Angeles can help to promote faster and healthier growth, particularly during the first few weeks after planting.
How do I maintain my grass seed in Los Angeles?
To maintain your grass seed in Los Angeles, you should mow regularly, water deeply and frequently, and fertilize regularly with a lawn fertilizer that is appropriate for the type of grass seed you have planted.
How much sun do I have on the lawn?
This can vary depending on the location of your lawn. Generally speaking, grass requires at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. If your lawn is in a shaded area or receives less than 4 hours of sunlight per day, you may need to consider planting a shade-tolerant grass variety.
Does my area suffer from drought or watering restrictions?
Yes, Southern California is known for its droughts and water restrictions. It's important to select a grass seed that is drought-tolerant and can thrive with minimal water. Additionally, it's important to be mindful of local watering restrictions and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Which grass seed is best for Southern California?
The most popular and widely recommended grass seed for Southern California is Bermuda grass. It's drought-tolerant, can handle foot traffic, and can grow in a variety of soil types. Another good option is Zoysia grass, which is also drought-tolerant and can handle foot traffic, but requires less mowing.
When should I plant grass seed in Los Angeles?
The ideal time to plant grass seed in Los Angeles is during the fall months, between September and November. This allows the seed to establish before the hot summer months and provides ample time for growth before the next winter season.
What is the best grass to use in California?
The best grass to use in California will depend on your specific location and climate. Generally speaking, drought-tolerant grasses like Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and Saint Augustine grass are good options to consider.
What grass zone is Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is located in grass zone 10, which is characterized by mild winters and hot summers. This zone is known for its year-round growing season and is suitable for a variety of grass types.
Sources we used in this research