Blue Grass
The term “Bluegrass” holds a particular place in my heart, since I was raised in Kentucky. Oddly, it is not native there and, yes, it is widespread especially in the central part of the state famous for its thoroughbred horse farms and race horses. Almost a virtual “Plains”, Central Kentucky is rich in limestone and flat enough at least to provide huge area of natural grass expanses. The Ph Factor is perfect for bluegrasses and the richness and gorgeous color of Kentucky Bluegrass is rightfully famous and very desirable as a lawn choice.
Bluegrass is not a deep-rooting grass, thus it is susceptible to browning out during periods of stress, such as cold weather or drought. But it is one hardy perennial grass which goes dormant during these periods and can generally be counted on to bounce back when conditions allow. It is particularly famous for its rich green cast, even going to the blue, thus its title. There are few grasses that can provide the rich deep green color of this grass and few also quite as hardy, in the end. It also is “barefoot friendly” providing a marvelous texture to walk on. It mends easily enough by reseeding and roots amazingly quickly, once planted.
Best results with this gorgeous and much-desired product include mixing a few other seed types in, either from nurseries and sod farms themselves or by adding it yourself. Perennial Rye grasses are great “starter” seeds as a “nurse crop”, providing protection when it develops so quickly and offering an early green appearance. These are also a cooler season grass which tends to ‘green up’ early than the slow developing Bluegrasses.
Bluegrass is best for medium traffic areas and is easily repaired when damaged. A Fescue seed mix can improve the durability of Bluegrass as well and provide a sturdier lawn all the way around. Fescues are also cooler season grasses as we will discover elsewhere.
