If you're looking for the perfect grass to adorn your lawn in Northern California, then you've come to the right place. With so many options out there, choosing the right grass for your area can be an overwhelming task. However, there are several factors that you need to consider before making any purchase.
Firstly, it's important to know the type of soil in your area, the sunlight exposure, and the amount of rainfall you receive. All these factors play a significant role in determining the type of grass that will thrive in your region. Additionally, you need to look for disease resistance, tolerance to drought and traffic, as well as the maintenance requirements of each variety.
Are you tired of wasting your money on grass that quickly withers away? Or perhaps you're simply seeking expert advice on the best grass for your unique needs. Whatever your reason, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to discover the top questions you should ask yourself before buying grass, as well as expert tips to help you narrow down your options and make an informed decision.
10 Best Grass For Northern California
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Ideal for establishing a lush, green lawn with high drought and heat tolerance in both sunny and shaded areas.
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Ideal for small yards in Northern regions with a comprehensive lawn care plan that includes fertilization, weed control, and insect prevention.
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Ideal for Northeastern climates, drought-prone soil and large lawn areas up to 6,600 square feet.
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Ideal for cool season lawns and providing a thick, dark green and drought-resistant grass.
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This product is ideal for growing Kentucky bluegrass in areas that receive full sun, light shade, and have medium drought resistance.
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Ideal fertilizer for any type of grass all year round, with micronutrients and iron to boost growth and health.
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Ideal for quickly establishing a dense and lush tall fescue lawn in any soil type with minimal maintenance.
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8
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The product is ideal for growing a lush and healthy cool-season lawn.
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Ideal for growing grass in warm spring and summer climates, providing a durable lawn for heavy foot traffic.
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10
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This product is ideal for patching and repairing areas with both sun and shade exposure on a lawn.
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1. Pennington Smart Seed Sun And Shade Grass Mix 7 Lb
Achieve a lush and healthy lawn with this premium grass seed mixture consisting of Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fine Fescue. This blend is specifically formulated to thrive in areas that receive sun in some parts and moderate shade in others. The seed is coated with just the right amount of fertilizer to give your lawn the nutrients it needs to succeed.
This grass seed is perfect for areas that receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight, and it boasts excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance. Additionally, it can help you save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed. You can expect to see results in as little as 8 to 21 days, and this bag can cover up to 2,330 sq. ft.
Transform your lawn into a beautiful and healthy oasis with this premium grass seed mixture.
- Formulated with a mix of Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fine Fescue to thrive in areas with sun and moderate shade
- Coated with just the right amount of fertilizer to provide your lawn with essential nutrients
- Excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance
- Can help you save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed
- Guaranteed to grow and see results in as little as 8 to 21 days
- Covers up to 2,330 sq. ft.
- – May not be suitable for areas with extreme shade or full sun
2. Scotts Lawn Care Plan For Small Yards (Northern)
Achieve a lush, green lawn all year round with the Scotts Lawn Care Plan. This comprehensive plan contains four different types of fertilizers that are specially designed to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to thrive in any season. The Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food is perfect for preventing grassy weeds such as crabgrass. It helps you get rid of weeds and nourish your lawn at the same time. The Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed 3 is an excellent option for clearing out weeds and feeding your lawn to make it thicker. The Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control is an insecticide that protects against fleas, ticks, and other insects that can cause damage to your lawn. Lastly, the Scotts Turf Builder Winterguard Fall Lawn Food develops strong, deep roots to prepare for winter. It is designed for use on Bermuda, Bluegrass, Rye, Tall Fescue, Centipede, Zoysia, and Bahia lawns.
The Scotts Lawn Care Plan is an all-in-one solution that saves you time and effort. The plan eliminates the need to purchase individual fertilizers, making it a cost-effective option for lawn care. With this plan, you can achieve a healthy, green lawn that can withstand any weather condition. The fertilizers are easy to apply and come with clear instructions for use. The Scotts Lawn Care Plan is a must-have for anyone who wants a beautiful lawn without the hassle.
The Scotts Lawn Care Plan is an excellent option for those who want to take their lawn care to the next level. The set includes fertilizers that cater to specific needs, making it a versatile solution for any lawn. Each fertilizer has been tested and developed by lawn care experts to ensure that you get the best results possible. The Scotts Lawn Care Plan is perfect for anyone who wants a healthy, vibrant lawn that is the envy of the neighborhood.
- Comprehensive plan that includes all the necessary fertilizers for a healthy lawn
- Easy to use with clear instructions
- Cost-effective solution that saves money in the long run
- Suitable for different types of lawns
- Developed by lawn care experts for optimal results
- – May require multiple applications for best results
- – Some users may prefer organic lawn care solutions
3. Pennington Smart Seed Northeast Grass Mix 20 Lb, Drought Resistant And Covers 6,600 Sq Ft
Introducing the premium grass seed mix of Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, and Fine Fescues, ideal for those looking for a lush and green lawn all year round. This grass seed mix is perfect for areas that receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight and can survive both summer heat and harsh winters.
The grass seed mix comes with just the right amount of fertilizer needed to help your lawn flourish, and you can expect excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance. Additionally, you can save up to 30% more water yearly as compared to ordinary grass seed.
The grass seed mix is guaranteed to grow, and you can see visible results in just 8 to 14 days. One bag of this premium grass seed mix covers an area of up to 6,660 sq. ft., making it an economical choice for those who want a beautiful lawn without breaking the bank.
- Contains Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, and Fine Fescues ideal for all-year-round green lawn
- Ability to survive summer heat and harsh winters
- Comes with just the right amount of fertilizer needed to help your lawn flourish
- Excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance
- Saves up to 30% more water yearly than ordinary grass seed
- Guaranteed to grow with visible results in 8 to 14 days
- Covers up to 6,660 sq. ft. making it an economical choice for those who want a beautiful lawn
4. 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.
- 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
- – 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
5. Kentucky Bluegrass Mix: Drought-Proof Full Sun Seeds
Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Kentucky Bluegrass Mix is the perfect solution for those who want to grow a thick and durable lawn. This seed mix is designed for full sun and light shade, making it an ideal choice for most lawns. With its fine bladed texture and medium drought resistance, this seed mix is sure to impress.
One of the key features of this seed mix is its ability to continuously self-repair, which means it can withstand wear and tear. This makes it an excellent choice for those who have an active family or pets. The 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating is another great feature of this seed mix, which absorbs more water, feeds with essential nutrients, and protects seedlings from disease. This coating ensures that the seedlings have the best possible chance of growing into a healthy lawn.
This seed mix can cover up to 4,660 sq. ft., making it an excellent value for the money. However, it should be noted that this product is not available in LA.
Overall, Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Kentucky Bluegrass Mix is an excellent choice for those who want a thick and durable lawn that can withstand wear and tear. Its fine bladed texture and medium drought resistance make it a great choice for most lawns. With the 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating, this seed mix is sure to impress and give the best possible chance for a healthy lawn.
- Self-repairing ability
- Designed for full sun and light shade
- Fine bladed texture and medium drought resistance
- 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating for better growth
- Can cover up to 4,660 sq. ft.
- – Not available in LA
6. Supercharge Your Lawn With Simple Solutions
Transform your lawn into a lush green paradise with the Liquid Iron, Nitrogen and Micronutrient Blend: Lawn Energizer Booster. This commercial grade booster treatment is specifically designed to provide essential nutrients needed to intensify the green of your lawn, making it the envy of the neighborhood. The ready-to-use hose end sprayer covers an area of 3,200 SQ. FT, saving you time and effort.
The Lawn Energizer Booster is a high-quality 6-0-0 nitrogen, iron, and micronutrient blend that is suitable for all grass types, including Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, Buffalo, Centipede, Florida Palmetto, Bahia, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Kentucky Bluegrass. Whether you have a residential or commercial property, this booster treatment will keep your lawn looking its best.
Produced in the United States, the Lawn Energizer Booster is manufactured by a family-owned business with 25 years of experience in the commercial professional turf industry. You can trust that this booster treatment is made with the highest quality ingredients and is safe for your lawn, family, and pets.
- Covers an area of 3,200 SQ. FT with ready-to-use hose end sprayer, saving time and effort
- Suitable for all grass types, making it versatile for residential and commercial properties
- High-quality 6-0-0 nitrogen, iron, and micronutrient blend intensifies the green of your lawn
- Produced in the United States by a family-owned business with 25 years of experience in the commercial professional turf industry, ensuring quality and safety
7. 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.
- 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
- – May not be available in all states
8. Jonathan Green (10322) Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (7 Lb)
Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed is an excellent solution for establishing new yards and filling in bare spots quickly. This grass seed mix contains tall fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass, which produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color.
With roots that can grow up to 4-feet deep and a waxy leaf coating, Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed helps retain moisture and limit evaporation. It also withstands heavy traffic, making it ideal for high-use areas.
For the best results, it is recommended to apply Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed in full sun to partial shade. The ideal time for planting is mid-August to mid-October while the ground is still warm, and the nights are cooler. The next best time to plant is mid-March through mid-May. The germination time is 7-14 days.
This 7 lb bag of Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed can seed up to 1,400 sq. ft. for new lawns or up to 2,800 sq. ft. for overseeding. It is an excellent choice for invigorating thin or damaged lawns and establishing a beautiful, healthy, and resilient lawn.
- Quickly establishes new yards and fills in bare spots
- Produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color
- Retains moisture and withstands heavy traffic
- Ideal for high-use areas
- Can seed up to 1,400 sq. ft. for new lawns and 2,800 sq. ft. for overseeding
9. Hancock's Pensacola Bahia Spring & Summer Grass Seed Mix – 50 Lbs.
The Pensacola Bahia Grass Seed mixture is a high-quality seed mix that is perfect for lawn and pasture applications in Southern climates. This seed mixture is specially designed for those looking for a grass that can survive well in sandy soils, which many other grass types struggle to grow in. The seed mix is harvested, processed, and distributed by Hancock Farm and Seed Company, ensuring the highest quality Pensacola Bahiagrass seed available.
Pensacola Bahia is widely used throughout the Southern United States, from North Carolina to California, for lawns, pastures, and roadside applications. The seed mix contains 75% Coated Pensacola Bahiagrass and 25% Browntop Millet, making it perfect for Spring & Summer planting.
Overall, the Pensacola Bahia Grass Seed mixture is an excellent option for those who want a high-quality seed mix that is perfect for Southern climates, especially in sandy soils.
- High-quality seed mix
- Survives well in sandy soils
- Widely used throughout the Southern United States
- Contains 75% Coated Pensacola Bahiagrass and 25% Browntop Millet
10. 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.
- 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
- – Requires proper care to guarantee growth
- – Not available in Hawaii
Best Grass For Northern California FAQs
How do I care for my northern California lawn during the drought season?
During the drought season, it is important to take extra care of your Northern California lawn. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy lawn:
1. Water your lawn deeply and infrequently: Water your lawn deeply once or twice a week instead of shallow watering every day. This will help your grass develop deeper roots and become more drought-resistant.
2. Use drought-tolerant grasses: Choose grasses that are native to Northern California and are drought-resistant. These grasses require less water and are better adapted to the local climate.
3. Mow your lawn correctly: Raise the height of your mower blades to avoid cutting your grass too short. This will help your lawn retain moisture and provide shade for the soil.
4. Use organic fertilizers: Use organic fertilizers that release nutrients slowly over time. This will help your lawn grow more slowly and require less water.
5. Consider xeriscaping: Xeriscaping is a landscaping technique that uses drought-resistant plants and materials to conserve water. Consider replacing some of your lawn with xeriscaping to reduce your water usage.
By following these tips, you can maintain a healthy lawn during the drought season while conserving water.
How do I choose the right grass seed for my northern California lawn?
Choosing the right grass seed for your northern California lawn can be a daunting task, but with the right information, it can be a breeze. Before you start looking for the right seed, you need to know the type of grass that will thrive in your area. Northern California has a Mediterranean climate, which means that the temperature is mild, and the rainfall is low. Thus, you need to look for grass seed that is drought-tolerant and can withstand the temperature fluctuations.
Some of the grasses that do well in northern California include tall fescue, fine fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass. However, the type of grass you choose will depend on the amount of shade, foot traffic, and water availability in your lawn.
When choosing the right grass seed, consider the germination rate, seed quality, and the seed mix. A high-quality seed mix will contain a blend of different grasses that can withstand different conditions. You can also opt for seed blends that have been specifically designed for northern California.
In summary, to choose the right grass seed for your northern California lawn, consider your lawn's specific needs and look for a high-quality seed mix that can withstand drought, temperature fluctuations, and foot traffic.
How do I prevent pests and diseases from damaging my northern California grass?
Preventing pests and diseases from damaging your northern California grass requires a combination of proactive measures and timely intervention. The first step is to maintain proper lawn care practices such as regular mowing, fertilizing, and watering. A healthy and well-maintained lawn is less susceptible to pests and diseases.
It's also crucial to identify and address any potential pest or disease issues promptly. Keep an eye out for signs of damage, such as brown patches or yellowing, and inspect your lawn regularly for any signs of pests, such as grubs or chinch bugs. If you notice any issues, contact a professional lawn care service or consult with a local garden center to determine the best course of action.
Another effective preventative measure is to introduce beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or praying mantises, to your lawn. These insects can help control pests naturally, reducing the need for pesticides.
Finally, minimize stress on your lawn by avoiding overwatering, limiting foot traffic, and providing adequate shade during the hottest parts of the day. By taking these steps, you can help protect your northern California grass from pests and diseases and keep it looking healthy and vibrant all year round.
What are the best types of grass for northern California?
Northern California has a diverse climate, which means that choosing the right type of grass for your lawn can be challenging. However, there are several types of grass that are well-suited for the region.
One of the most popular types of grass in Northern California is tall fescue. This grass is drought-resistant and can thrive in a variety of soil types, making it an ideal choice for homeowners in the area. Another popular choice is Kentucky bluegrass, which is known for its fine texture and rich green color. It is also relatively low-maintenance and can grow well in a range of soil types.
Other options include fine fescue, which is often used for golf courses, and perennial ryegrass, which is known for its rapid growth and durability. Ultimately, the best type of grass for your lawn will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consulting with a lawn care professional can help you determine which type of grass will work best for your property.
What is the best time of year to plant grass in northern California?
The best time of year to plant grass in northern California is during the fall season, specifically in September or October. During this time, the soil is still warm enough for the grass seeds to germinate, while the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall provide the ideal conditions for growth. Planting during the fall also allows the grass to establish a strong root system before the hot, dry summer season arrives. Spring is another viable option for planting grass, but it may require more frequent watering and maintenance to ensure proper growth. It is important to choose the right type of grass for your specific location and climate, as well as to properly prepare the soil before planting. Consulting with a local gardening expert or landscaper can help ensure a successful and beautiful lawn.