Zone 5 is known for its cool winters and short but hot summers too. Due to the long durations of winter months, zone 5 is exclusively for cool-season grasses. Mowing of the grass lasts from mid-spring through early fall whereas the watering takes place during hot and dry summer months. Some of the commonly found grasses in zone 5 are-
- Bentgrass – This is one of the best suited lawn grasses for zone 5. The seed rate for lawns at 1000 sq. ft. is ½-1. The planting depth for bentgrass is around ¼” to ½”. The best time to plant bentgrass is spring or fall.
- Kentucky Bluegrass – This is a perennial species of grass which derives its name from its flower head which is blue. It grows very well in well-drained, fertile soil. The grass is allowed to grow up to 2-3 feet, and it also attracts caterpillars, butterflies and others.
- Fescues – This is a very important grass for lawns as well as for pastures in zone 5. Fescues range from small grasses only 10 cm tall or less and have very fine thread like leaves. They are helpful in controlling soil erosion and require well-drained soil.
- Bermudagrass – The blades of this grass are green-grey colored and are short around 2-15 centimeters with rough edges. It requires a warm climate and grows very fast. It is a tough and aggressive grass. Bermudagrass can grow well in saline soils as well.
- Buffalograss – Buffalograss is a shortgrass which is mainly found on high plains. It is a warm seasoned, native perennial shortgrass which is drought, heat and cold resistant.
- Dichondra – Dichondra is a perennial grass with small flowers around 2-3 mm in diameter which are white, green and yellow in color. This grass is not much popular as it is quite difficult to start it, as well as growing and maintaining it.
- St. Augustine grass - St. Augustine grass is a warm season lawn grass which is dark in color with broad and flat blades. It requires partial shade and can be often seen growing in lagoons, marshes etc., in regions with good amount of moisture.
- Wheatgrass – Wheatgrass is also known as young grass of the common wheat plant. It can be grown indoors in trays as well as outdoors. If grown outdoors, it should be harvested, as it grows very slowly through the winter.
