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Turfgrass and Lawn Management

Which grass should I plant?

Each of the major turf species has advantages and disadvantages. There are four questions you need to answer to decide which grass to plant:

  1. How much sunlight strikes the ground?
    Bermudagrass requires full sun to thrive while St. Augustinegrass can survive in 30 percent sun.
     
  2. How hard do I want to work?
    Hybrid bermudagrass requires almost constant fertilizing, watering, mowing, and pest control to grow well. Centipedegrass thrives on neglect.
     
  3. Where am I in Mississippi?
    North Mississippian's (north of Highway 82) can grow tall fescue, and people in counties touching Tennessee can grow Kentucky bluegrass, but they should not attempt St. Augustinegrass.
     
  4. Which look am I desiring?
    Bermudagrasses provide a smooth, dark green carpet effect when properly maintained. Centipedegrass will always have a yellow tinge to it's coloring.    
Mississippi State University Extension 130 Bost Drive Mississippi State MS 39762