When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Grass For Florida Panhandle (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a lush and flourishing lawn in the Florida Panhandle, then choosing the right grass is essential. The warm and humid climate can be harsh on grass, which makes selecting the appropriate turf type critical for ensuring a vibrant and healthy lawn.

Before investing in grass for your Florida Panhandle lawn, there are several factors you should consider to make the best decision. One of the essential things is to assess the amount of sunlight your lawn receives. Different kinds of grass require varying levels of sunlight, and some may not thrive with too much shade. Also, you need to consider the soil type, the water requirements, and the maintenance level before choosing the right grass type.

Are you worried about getting the right grass for your specific needs? Do you want a pristine lawn without breaking your back or your budget? Are you wondering which type of grass is best for your soil type? Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the different types of grass available in the Florida Panhandle market and provide you with tips and tricks to help maintain a beautiful and thriving lawn. Keep reading to discover more.

10 Best Grass For Florida Panhandle

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This grass seed is ideal for areas with high temperatures and little rainfall, as it is resistant to heat and drought.
2
This product is ideal for growing and maintaining healthy, lush Bahia grass in large areas.
3
Ideal for growing a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn in the Southeastern United States with sandy or acidic soil.
4
The product is ideal for growing bermudagrass and fertilizing up to 5,000 square feet of lawn.
5
This product is ideal for patching and repairing areas with both sun and shade exposure on a lawn.
6
Ideal for southern lawns with low maintenance and watering requirements.
7
The product is ideal for growing bermudagrass in hot and drought-prone areas.
8
Ideal for quickly establishing a dense and lush tall fescue lawn in any soil type with minimal maintenance.
9
Ideal for cool season lawns and providing a thick, dark green and drought-resistant grass.
10
Ideal for growing healthy grass in hot and dry climates, requiring minimal maintenance and irrigation.
This grass seed is ideal for areas with high temperatures and little rainfall, as it is resistant to heat and drought.
This product is ideal for growing and maintaining healthy, lush Bahia grass in large areas.
Ideal for growing a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn in the Southeastern United States with sandy or acidic soil.
The product is ideal for growing bermudagrass and fertilizing up to 5,000 square feet of lawn.
This product is ideal for patching and repairing areas with both sun and shade exposure on a lawn.
Ideal for southern lawns with low maintenance and watering requirements.
The product is ideal for growing bermudagrass in hot and drought-prone areas.
Ideal for quickly establishing a dense and lush tall fescue lawn in any soil type with minimal maintenance.
Ideal for cool season lawns and providing a thick, dark green and drought-resistant grass.
Ideal for growing healthy grass in hot and dry climates, requiring minimal maintenance and irrigation.

1. Heat-Drought Resistant Grass Seed, 10lbs By Scotts

The Argentine Bahiagrass grass seed is an excellent choice for those looking for a low maintenance grass that is heat and drought resistant. It is specifically designed for full sun and has a wider blade than Pensacola bahiagrass. The seed is coated to absorb 2x more water than uncoated seed, which helps with establishment and growth. With this grass seed, you can expect deep roots and excellent stress tolerance. It can cover up to 2,000 sq. ft. and will result in a darker green lawn.

This grass seed is perfect for those who want a low maintenance lawn that can handle harsh weather conditions. It is easy to establish and maintain, and its wider blades give it a unique look. With this seed, you won't have to worry about watering as often because of its water-absorbing coating. You can enjoy a beautiful, lush lawn with minimal effort.

Overall, the Argentine Bahiagrass grass seed is an excellent investment for those who want a beautiful and low maintenance lawn.

Pros

  • Designed for full sun
  • Coated to absorb 2x more water than uncoated seed
  • Establishes deep roots and tolerates stress for lower maintenance
  • Excellent heat and drought resistance
  • Darker green and has a wider blade than Pensacola bahiagrass
  • Seeds up to 2,000 sq. ft.

2. Hancock's Pensacola Bahia Grass Seed – Coated – 50 Lbs.

Hancock’s Pensacola Bahia Grass Seed is a warm-season grass that is specifically designed for lawn and pasture applications in southern climates. It is an excellent choice for sandy soils that many other grasses struggle to grow in. The seed is harvested, processed, and distributed by Hancock Seed Company, ensuring that the highest quality Pensacola Bahia grass seed is available. The grass is commonly used for lawns, pastures, and roadside applications in a variety of states, from North Carolina to California.

Bahiagrass is a versatile grass that can be grown on upland, well-drained sands, as well as the moist, poorly-drained flatwoods soils of peninsular Florida. It produces more grazing in the summer than winter and has a longer growing season in southern Florida, resulting in more evenly distributed forage growth throughout the year. Bahiagrass is primarily used for beef cattle pastures and can support one animal unit per acre from approximately mid-March to mid-November (on southern Florida flatwoods) if fertilized and rotationally grazed.

Pros

  • Adapted to climatic conditions throughout Florida
  • Produces more grazing in the summer than winter
  • Can be grown on a variety of soils, including poorly-drained flatwoods soils
  • Harvested, processed, and distributed by Hancock Seed Company for high quality
  • Excellent choice for sandy soils where many other grasses struggle

Cons

  • – Not suitable for cooler climates
  • – Primarily used for beef cattle pastures

3. Tifblair Centipede Grass Seed (5 Lb.) Direct From The Farm

Zenith TifBlair Centipede lawn seed is a perfect choice for those who want a lush green lawn that is easy to maintain. It is a well-adapted lawn that can tolerate extreme temperatures, ranging from the southern coast to the upper transition zone. The grass is drought-tolerant and can grow in full sun to partial shade. The seed is coated to improve germination.

If you live in zones 8 and colder, it is too late in the year to grow Zenith TifBlair Centipede lawns from seed as frost will arrive soon. However, you can safely plant until September 30th if you live in zones 9 and 10. If you live in zones 11 and warmer, you can plant it all year round. It is best to purchase fresh seed closer to the planting time to get the best germination rate. Each 5 lb. bag will cover up to 20,000 square feet (.45 acre).

Pros

  • Well-adapted lawn that can tolerate extreme temperatures
  • Drought-tolerant
  • Can grow in full sun to partial shade
  • Seed is coated to improve germination
  • Each 5 lb. bag will cover up to 20,000 square feet (.45 acre)

Cons

  • – Not suitable for zones 8 and colder to grow from seed

4. Quickgrow: Bermudagrass Combo For Flawless Lawns

The Bermudagrass Growth Solution is a specially formulated blend of seed and fertilizer that promotes rapid growth. This unique and proprietary blend is perfect for large problem areas or establishing new grass. With added fertilizer, the speed of growth is further enhanced once the grass seed germinates.

The product is designed to be used in the spring or early summer when temperatures range between 70°F and 90°F and the danger of frost has passed. It is easy to apply and one 4 lb. bag can cover up to 5,000 sq. ft. when overseeding an existing lawn or 1,498 sq. ft. when growing a new lawn.

The Bermudagrass Growth Solution is a reliable and effective solution for promoting healthy and rapid growth of bermudagrass. It is perfect for homeowners looking to establish a new lawn or revive an existing one.

Pros

  • Promotes rapid bermudagrass growth
  • Contains a unique and proprietary blend of seed and fertilizer
  • Easy to apply
  • Ideal for large problem areas or establishing new grass
  • Speeds up growth once grass seed germinates

Cons

  • – Only suitable for use in specific temperature ranges
  • – May not be suitable for other types of grass

5. Scotts Ez Seed Patch And Repair Sun And Shade For Grass: Covers Up To 225 Sq. Ft., 10 Lb.

Achieve a lush green lawn in any area with the revolutionary Scotts seeding mix. This product includes high-performance grass seeds, absorbent mulch, exclusive controlled-release fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant that ensures guaranteed growth (subject to proper care). The mulch can absorb up to 6 times its weight in water and expands to create a moist protective layer around the seed. The fertilizer is designed with controlled-release technology to provide essential nutrients for the seedlings' jumpstart growth.

Scotts seeding mix is an ideal solution for growing grass in full sun, dense shade, high traffic areas, and slopes. It can cover up to 225 sq. ft. and can be used in areas that are newly planted. The tackifier helps prevent the seed from washing away while the protectant keeps the seedlings safe from harmful diseases that can attack newly planted areas. This product is not available in Hawaii.

Pros

  • Revolutionary seeding mix that guarantees grass growth in any area (subject to proper care)
  • Includes high-performance grass seeds, absorbent mulch, exclusive controlled-release fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant
  • Mulch can absorb up to 6 times its weight in water and expands to create a moist protective layer around the seed
  • Fertilizer is designed with controlled-release technology to provide essential nutrients for the seedlings' jumpstart growth
  • Ideal solution for growing grass in full sun, dense shade, high traffic areas, and slopes
  • Covers up to 225 sq. ft.
  • Tackifier helps prevent the seed from washing away
  • Protectant keeps the seedlings safe from harmful diseases that can attack newly planted areas

Cons

  • – Requires proper care to guarantee growth
  • – Not available in Hawaii

6. Southern Lawn Savior: Argentine Bahia Seed Mix

Looking for a low maintenance grass seed that can replace problematic lawn seed varieties? Look no further than the Bahia grass seed from Hancock Farm & Seed Co. This popular seed produces a lush, wide-bladed and attractive lawn and pasture grass that requires minimal attention.

One of the standout features of this seed is its low watering requirements. With 10 to 12 feet of dense root structure, the Argentine Bahia grass needs less frequent watering than other grass varieties. This makes it a great option for those who don't have the time or resources to water their lawn every day.

But this Bahia grass isn't just low maintenance, it's also resistant. With a mixture of 75% coated Argentine Bahia grass and 25% Browntop Millet, this seed provides fast ground coverage, retains soil moisture and prevents soil and seed erosion. This makes it a great choice for areas that are prone to soil erosion or other environmental challenges.

One thing to keep in mind is that this Bahia grass is best used in the southern United States where warm weather persists. But if you're in a warm, drought-prone area, this low-watering option could be just what you need.

And if you're wondering about the quality of the seed itself, rest assured that you're getting top-quality seeds direct from the source. Hancock Farm & Seed Co. has been growing, harvesting and processing Bahia grass seed since 1978. As a fourth-generation family-owned and operated company, they bring you 40 years of experience and expertise at a great price.

Pros

  • Produces a lush, wide-bladed and attractive lawn and pasture grass
  • Requires minimal attention and low watering
  • Provides fast ground coverage, retains soil moisture and prevents soil and seed erosion
  • Ideal for warm weather conditions
  • Directly sourced from a reputable, fourth-generation family-owned company

Cons

  • – Best suited for warm weather conditions, may not thrive in cooler climates

7. Bermudagrass Builder: Drought-Resistant Seed For Heat

The Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Southern Gold Mix is specially designed for full sun, high traffic areas, and drought resistance. This premium grass seed mix is coated with an exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating, which has the ability to absorb more water, feed the seedlings with essential nutrients, and protect them from disease. The package includes Scotts' best seed, which offers excellent protection against disease, keeps the seed moist 2x longer, and feeds to jumpstart growth for thicker, greener grass, guaranteed.

The Southern Gold Mix aggressively spreads to fill in bare spots and crowd out weeds, making it a perfect choice for lawns that are challenged by long periods of scorching southern heat, drought, and bare spots. This premium grass seed mix is a perfect choice for anyone who is looking to achieve a lush, green, and healthy lawn. The high-quality blend of grass seeds in this mix ensures that your lawn will have a uniform texture and color throughout the year.

This premium grass seed mix is easy to apply, and it germinates quickly, ensuring that you will see results in just a few days. The Southern Gold Mix is a perfect choice for anyone who is looking to enhance the beauty of their lawn while providing it with the essential nutrients that it needs to thrive. So, if you are looking for a high-quality grass seed mix that will help you achieve the lawn of your dreams, look no further than the Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Southern Gold Mix.

Note: The bag contains 7 lbs of grass seed, which is enough to cover up to 2,800 sq. ft. of lawn area.

Pros

  • Designed for full sun, high traffic areas, and drought resistance
  • Exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating absorbs more water, feeds with essential nutrients and protects seedlings from disease
  • Includes Scotts best seed, protects against disease, keeps seed moist 2x longer & feeds to jumpstart growth for thicker, greener grass, guaranteed
  • Aggressively spreads to fill in bare spots and crowd out weeds
  • Great for lawns challenged by long periods of scorching southern heat, drought, and bare spots
  • Easy to apply and germinates quickly

Cons

  • – The bag contains only 7 lbs of grass seed

8. Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass, Grass Seed And Fertilizer Tall Fescue Mix, 5.6 Lbs.

Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Tall Fescue Mix is a unique combination of tall fescue seed and fertilizer that results in a full green grass in just weeks. This proprietary mix grows up to 2x times faster than seed alone when applied at the new lawn rate (subject to proper care). With this combination, you can expect to see grass growing in a minimum of 11 days and a maximum of 21 days, perfect for establishing new grass or large problem areas in your lawn.

The best time to plant grass seed is during fall and spring when temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F, and the chance of frost has passed. For best results, lightly rake the soil to remove debris, apply the Scotts spreader to distribute the seed evenly, and water daily or as needed to keep the soil surface moist until the seedlings reach at least 2 to 3 inches tall. With a 5.6-lb. bag, you can seed up to 1,845 sq. ft., making it a complete solution for your lawn.

Please note that Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Tall Fescue Mix may not be available in all states.

Pros

  • Grows up to 2x times faster than seed alone when applied at the new lawn rate
  • Result in full green grass that grows in just weeks
  • Ideal for establishing new grass or large problem areas in your lawn

Cons

  • – May not be available in all states

9. Jonathan Green (10323) Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)

Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed is the perfect solution for those who want to establish new lawns or fill in bare spots quickly. This grass seed mix is specifically designed to grow rapidly for the speedy establishment of newly seeded lawns. It also fills in patches and invigorates thin or damaged lawns.

The grass seed mix produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color. It consists of a blend of tall fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass. With roots that can grow up to 4-feet deep and a waxy leaf coating, Black Beauty Ultra preserves moisture and limits evaporation, making it an ideal choice for areas with limited water availability. Additionally, it can withstand heavy traffic, making it a great option for high-use areas.

For optimal growth, Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed requires full sun to partial shade. The best time to apply it is mid-August to mid-October when the ground is still warm, and the nights are cooler. The next best time to plant is mid-March through mid-May.

This 25 lb bag of Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed will seed up to 5,000 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 10,000 sq. ft. for overseeding. The germination time is 7-14 days, and it is perfect for those who want a lush, green lawn in a short amount of time.

Pros

  • Quickly establishes new lawns and fills in bare spots
  • Produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color
  • Preserves moisture and limits evaporation
  • Withstands heavy traffic
  • Ideal for areas with limited water availability

Cons

  • – Requires full sun to partial shade, may not be suitable for areas with extreme sunlight or shade
  • – The best time to apply is limited to specific months, may not be suitable for year-round planting

10. Bonide Heat & Drought Grass Seed, 7 Lbs

The product with model number 60254 is made in the United States. Its item package dimensions are 12.44 inches in length, 11.57 inches in width, and 1.57 inches in height. The total weight of the package is 7.01 pounds.

This product is perfect for those who are looking for a high-quality item that is made in the USA. It has a sturdy construction and comes in a well-designed package.

Experience the convenience of using this product with its compact size that does not take up too much space. Its weight is also manageable, making it easy to carry around.

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Sturdy construction
  • Well-designed package
  • Compact size
  • Manageable weight

Best Grass For Florida Panhandle FAQs

Can I grow a warm-season or cool-season grass in the Florida panhandle?

Yes, you can grow both warm-season and cool-season grass in the Florida panhandle. However, selecting the right type of grass for your lawn depends on factors such as soil type, climate, and level of maintenance required.

Warm-season grasses such as Zoysia, Bermuda, and St. Augustine thrive in hot and humid conditions, making them ideal for the Florida panhandle's climate. These grasses are best planted in spring or early summer when soil temperatures are above 70°F.

On the other hand, cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass do well in cooler temperatures, making them ideal for areas with mild winters. You can plant them in the fall, and they will grow throughout the winter months.

It's essential to consult a local lawn care professional to help you select the right type of grass for your lawn in the Florida panhandle. They can also guide you on how to care for your lawn and maintain its health throughout the year.

How do I maintain a healthy lawn in the Florida panhandle climate?

Maintaining a healthy lawn in the Florida panhandle climate can be a daunting task, but it is achievable with the right approach. The first step is to choose the right grass species that can thrive in the hot and humid climate. Zoysia grass and Bermuda grass are popular options that can tolerate heat and drought conditions.

Proper watering is crucial to keep your lawn healthy. Water your lawn in the early morning or late evening to prevent evaporation and water loss. Frequent watering is not necessary, but deep watering once or twice a week is sufficient to encourage deep root growth.

Fertilization is essential to provide the necessary nutrients for your lawn. Use a slow-release fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the right ratio to prevent over-fertilization that can cause damage to your lawn.

Mowing your lawn properly is also important. Cut your grass to the right height, depending on the species you have. Leaving your grass too long can promote fungus growth, while cutting it too short can stress the grass and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.

Lastly, keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can damage your lawn. Regular inspection, early detection, and treatment can prevent serious damage to your lawn.

In summary, maintaining a healthy lawn in the Florida panhandle climate requires proper grass species selection, watering, fertilization, mowing, and pest and disease control. With these steps, you can enjoy a lush, green lawn all year round.

Is it necessary to fertilize and water my grass differently in the Florida panhandle?

Yes, it is necessary to fertilize and water your grass differently in the Florida panhandle compared to other regions. The Florida panhandle has a unique climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. This climate affects the growth and health of your grass, which requires special care to thrive.

When it comes to fertilizing, it's important to choose the right fertilizer and apply it at the right time. The best time to fertilize your grass in the Florida panhandle is during the growing season, which is usually from late spring to early fall. Using a slow-release fertilizer will give your grass the nutrients it needs over time and prevent over-fertilization.

Watering your grass is also important in the Florida panhandle, where there are frequent droughts and water restrictions. It's best to water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to absorb the water and encouraging deeper root growth. Watering early in the morning or late in the evening will also reduce evaporation and ensure that your grass gets the most out of each watering.

Overall, taking care of your grass in the Florida panhandle requires a unique approach that takes into account the region's climate and environmental factors. With the right care, your grass can thrive and provide a beautiful and healthy landscape for your home or business.

What are the best types of grass for the Florida panhandle?

The Florida panhandle region is known for its hot and humid climate, which makes choosing the right type of grass for your lawn a crucial decision. Some of the best types of grass for the Florida panhandle include St. Augustine grass, Zoysia grass, and Bermuda grass.

St. Augustine grass is a popular choice due to its tolerance for shade and salt, making it ideal for coastal areas. Zoysia grass is another great option as it requires less water and fertilization compared to other grass types. Bermuda grass is also a good choice for the Florida panhandle due to its heat and drought tolerance.

It's important to note that each grass type has its own unique characteristics and maintenance requirements, so it's essential to choose the type of grass that best suits your needs and preferences. Consulting with a local lawn care professional can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your lawn stays healthy and vibrant throughout the year.

What are the most common pests and diseases that affect grass in the Florida panhandle, and how can I prevent them?

The Florida panhandle is known for its beautiful green lawns, but unfortunately, there are several pests and diseases that can damage the grass. The most common pests that can damage grass in the Florida panhandle are chinch bugs, sod webworms, and armyworms. These pests feed on the grass blades, causing brown patches in the lawn. To prevent these pests, it is important to maintain a healthy lawn by watering it regularly and fertilizing it appropriately. Additionally, it is important to mow the lawn at the right height to prevent stress on the grass.

As for diseases, the most common ones are brown patch and dollar spot. Brown patch is a fungal disease that causes circular brown patches in the lawn, while dollar spot causes small, silver-dollar-sized spots. To prevent these diseases, it is important to avoid overwatering the lawn and to mow it at the right height. It is also helpful to aerate the lawn regularly to ensure proper air circulation and drainage.

In summary, maintaining a healthy lawn is the key to preventing pests and diseases in the Florida panhandle. Regular watering, appropriate fertilization, and proper mowing techniques can go a long way in keeping your lawn healthy and beautiful.

Leave a Comment