Selecting a Species

Before you select a cultivar of grass, it is best to pick a species which is best adapted to the area and to the intended level of management. The species selected must also be capable of meeting the aesthetic expectations of the homeowner. Many lawn problems result from the failure to address these subjects during the grass selection process. In Ohio, only a few species of grass are useful for home lawns. The recommended species include: Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue and fine fescue. Information about the recommended uses of these grasses, their potential quality, relative management costs and seeding rates are summarized on "Selecting a Species" page.

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Selecting a Cultivar

After selecting the species, consider the appropriate cultivars or varieties within the species. As with most plants, each turfgrass species has a number of cultivars, varieties or hybrids, each of which are subtly different genetically. Go to "Selecting a Cultivar" page for more information.