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Home » Gardening Guides » Lawns » Types of Grasses » Shopping for Turfgrass

Shopping for Turfgrass

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Carol A. Crotta

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Bulk seed is available in both single-species and blended-species mixes.

Once you’ve decided whether to restore or replace your existing lawn, you’ll need a source for your turfgrass. And what you choose for your new lawn (seed, sod, plugs or sprigs) will determine what source you’ll use.

Seed is the least expensive method of planting turfgrass. So the larger your lawn, the more likely you are to use seed. Various mail-order and online catalogs offer seed in just about every variety you can imagine, but you may be better off consulting your local nursery, garden center or lawn-care operation, which will stock only those varieties that thrive in your region. They’ll also carry all-purpose mixes of turfgrass species. If you want a special mix (like a part sun/part shade turfgrass or a wear-resistant sports turf), it’s worth calling around to different suppliers. Your local agricultural Extension Office may also be able to offer assistance and advice for special requests.

To purchase sod, plugs or sprigs, it’s a good idea to visit a turf farm, which is devoted to only growing a single crop: turfgrass. Turf farms are usually found in rural areas and cut their turf to order. If you aren’t sure about the type of turfgrass you’d like and want to see a few varieties, it’s worth the trip to take a look at these remarkable establishments. (Before you head out, however, first make sure that the turf farm you’d like to visit accommodates consumer visits.)

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Consider visiting the sod farm before placing your order.

Most warm-season turf farms carry sprigs and plugs, as well as sod. When you see a turfgrass that suits your fancy, ask a series of questions, including: Will this grass grow in my area? Is it wear-resistant? How do I maintain it? Will it go dormant in winter and require overseeding? Is it susceptible to any particular pests or diseases? How often should it be mowed, and how high should I cut it?

Before you make any purchase, ask about the product guarantee, too – you want to be sure that you have replacement rights, just in case the grass fails after installation.

Finding the right reliable turfgrass source is one of the most important aspects of redoing your lawn. It might take a little bit of footwork to figure out which option is best for you and your needs, but the right choice is an important key in getting your new lawn off to a great start!

Tips

Check the label on all seed packages carefully to be sure your choice is freshly packed, has the right species for your planned needs and is guaranteed to be free of weed seed.

Facts

Your turfgrass selection will be limited if you’re ordering sod. Most sod grass is a single species or a blend of cultivars rather than a blend of grasses. This means it’s more prone to disease. Since you’ve got a lot at stake, purchase only certified products from a recommended sod supplier.
Turfgrass technology has developed faster than many other plant research areas, thanks largely to the demands of the sports world.

Faqs

Q: What is hydroseeding, and is it a good option?
A: Hydroseeding is a one-step seeding process used by commercial landscaping companies to “blow” a mix of grass seed, fertilizer, fiber mulch and water onto a seedbed. The mulch protects the seed from drying out, the fertilizer gives it a quick start, and the results are generally good. If you’re trying to cover difficult slopes, hydroseeding is a good option.
Q: Is artificial turf a good alternative to grass?
A: While artificial turf may tempt you as a natural-looking alternative to real grass, there are drawbacks. While you don’t have to mow or water a turf lawn, it still needs regular blowing and washing to remove litter and dust. Artificial turf also fades over time. And because the surface doesn’t transpire like real grass to keep cool, it can reach temperatures hot enough to burn skin in warm climates. Finally, turf is more abrasive than natural grass, so kids who fall are more prone to scrapes.

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