Curious about the title? These are the types of grasses that most people have in their lawns in this area and in most of PA and the Northeast. They are known as “cool season” grasses as they thrive in the cooler spring and fall weather and go dormant during summer’s hot and dry conditions.

Okay, but what’s the difference and which is best for my lawn? There are many similarities and also some important differences to consider when deciding which to use. Let’s see, Perennial Rye is the fastest to germinate in just 5-7 days. It has a medium dark green blade, does well in full sun and partial shade, takes high traffic (kids, pets, etc.) and is fastest to fully establish. It’s all I use in my lawn. The fescues, both tall and fine, have a germination time of 10-14 days. The big differences between them  – Turf type Tall Fescue – the only type carried in Herbein’s Lawn Center – is a very deep rooted, drought-tolerant, high traffic, dark green, medium bladed grass that is ideal for full sun and normal shade. On the other hand the Fine Fescue – Creeping Red at Herbein’s – is a very thin bladed, shallow rooted grass that’s great for under trees but won’t tolerate heavy use. And finally, Kentucky Bluegrass. It is the finest full sun, heavy use, heat and cold tolerant grass to use. However, it is not perfect. First, the germination time is 21-28 days and requires almost a full year to fully establish before it can be heavily used. 

So which to use depends on several factors, like where it’s going – sun, shade, traffic, etc. – and the time available to germinate it. Often mixtures with a combination of these varieties is a good alternative and the best choice to use. Come see me at Herbein’s Lawn Center and together we will determine how best to create that desired lawn.

Trivia Answer: They both like to dig up dirt.