Introduction
Planting grass around trees can create a beautiful and natural setting in your yard. The grass can serve as a ground cover and also helps to retain soil moisture. However, not all grass species thrive in these conditions. In this article, we'll explore the best grass to plant around trees.
Factors to Consider
Before selecting the best grass to plant around trees, there are a few factors to consider including:
Amount of sunlight
Soil type
Amount of foot traffic
Drought tolerance
These factors will help you determine the best grass to plant around trees that will grow and thrive in the conditions present in your yard.
Best Grass for Shady Areas
If the area around your trees receives limited sunlight, it's important to choose a shade-tolerant grass species. Fine fescue is an excellent option for shady areas. It's a cool-season grass that grows well in shaded areas and has a very fine texture. It can be mowed to a height of 2-3 inches and requires moderate watering. You can also mix fine fescue with other grass species to improve its overall appearance.
Best Grass for Sunny Areas
The amount of sunlight an area receives is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best grass to plant around trees. If the area around your trees receives plenty of sunlight, warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass or Zoysia grass are excellent options. Both of these species thrive in full sun and require minimal watering once established. Bermuda grass can be mowed to a height of 1-2 inches while Zoysia grass can be mowed to a height of 1-2.5 inches.
Best Grass for High Traffic Areas
Areas with high foot traffic require grass species that can withstand constant use. Tall fescue grass is a great option for high traffic areas around trees. It's a cool-season grass that is ideal for areas that receive partial sunlight. Tall fescue grass is also drought-resistant and can withstand heavy foot traffic. It can be mowed to a height of 2-3 inches and requires regular watering during hot and dry months.
Conclusion
Choosing the best grass to plant around trees requires careful consideration of the amount of sunlight, soil type, amount of foot traffic, and drought tolerance. Fine fescue, Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and tall fescue grass are all excellent options for planting around trees. By selecting the right grass species for your specific conditions, you can create a beautiful and functional area that enhances the natural beauty of your yard.