If you’re looking for the best lawn grass for Southern California, it’s important to consider a few factors before making your purchase. With the region’s hot and dry climate, choosing the right type of grass can make all the difference in keeping your lawn looking green and healthy year-round.
First and foremost, consider the amount of sunlight and shade your lawn receives throughout the day. Some types of grass, like Bermuda and Zoysia, thrive in full sun while others, such as St. Augustine and Fine Fescue, do well in partially shaded areas.
Next, think about the amount of rainfall and irrigation your lawn will receive. Drought-tolerant grasses like Buffalo and Bermuda are good options for areas with limited water, while other varieties like Kentucky Bluegrass require more consistent watering.
Finally, take into account how much maintenance you’re willing to put into your lawn. Some grasses, like Bermuda and Zoysia, require frequent mowing and trimming while others, such as Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue, can be left to grow longer.
What is the best choice for a low maintenance lawn in Southern California? How do different grasses hold up under heavy foot traffic? Keep reading to find out the answers to these questions and more.
10 Best Lawn Grass For Southern California
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Ideal for planting and growing Bahia grass, a warm-season grass commonly used as turf in southern states.
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The product is ideal for growing Bermuda Rye grass in lawns, dog patches and shaded areas with biodegradable grass seed mats.
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Ideal for Southern lawns that require low maintenance and watering.
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Ideal for those looking for a drought, salt, and shade tolerant turf sod with 18 live extra large grass plugs.
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Ideal for creating a high-quality lawn with fine, soft-textured grass that is perfect for cooler seasons.
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6
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Ideal for maintaining healthy, resilient tall fescue lawns in hot, dry conditions with harsh weather.
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7
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This grass seed is ideal for cool season lawns in the state of California.
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The product is ideal for patching and repairing bermudagrass lawns, promoting healthy growth in hot weather up to 225 sq. ft.
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9
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The product is ideal for repairing bare spots, thinning areas, and improving grass growth in both sunny and shady areas.
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10
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This product is ideal for homeowners looking to establish a dense and attractive St. Augustine grass lawn.
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1. Seedranch Pensacola Bahia Grass Seed (Coated) – 50 Lbs.
If you're looking for a low-maintenance way to keep your lawn looking green and healthy, then this 10 Lbs. Plants package might be just what you need. Covering an area of 1000 square feet, this package is perfect for those who want to have a lush lawn without having to spend hours maintaining it.
One of the biggest advantages of this package is that it is drought and disease resistant. That means you won't have to worry about your lawn turning brown during dry spells or getting infected by diseases. This feature makes it a good choice for those who live in areas with a hot and dry climate.
Another great feature of this package is its good traffic tolerance. This means that even if you have kids or pets running around on your lawn, it will still hold up well and maintain its lush appearance. This feature makes it ideal for families who want to have a beautiful lawn that can withstand heavy use.
Additionally, this package is easy to establish and grows quickly and vigorously. You won't have to wait months to see results; your lawn will start growing and filling in quickly. This feature also makes it a great choice for those who want to have a green lawn in a short amount of time.
2. Eco-Turf: All-Natural Grass Growth Solution
Transforming your lawn into a beautiful oasis has never been easier with the Grotrax Grass Seed fabric. This innovative product combines seed, fertilizer, and mulch in a single ‘roll out’ growing system, providing you with the perfect lawn every time. At over 100% of its recommended planting rate, every seed is perfectly placed to ensure maximum growth potential.
Each Grotrax Bermuda Rye Grass Seed roll contains the latest technology in grass growing, showcasing high-quality seed from leading Oregon growers. Simply roll out the product, water it, and watch your lawn grow. Even in extreme conditions or scorching sun, the Bermuda Rye Big Roll growing system stays green and healthy.
The biodegradable grass seed mat is specially designed to stick to the ground once rolled out and watered, ensuring that each seed is surrounded by fertilizer and held in place between two bio fabric layers. The Grotrax Micro Pellet Fertilizer produces fast germination and uniform growth, while the biodegradable fabric prevents seeds from washing away, making it a cheaper, easier, and lighter alternative to expensive traditional sod.
Each 50 square feet big roll is super lightweight and easy to roll out or cut into patches to fix damaged areas or grow entire new lawns. The Bermuda Rye Grass Seed Roll grows fast and ‘thickens-up’ for an attractive and durable lawn. Whether your lawn is in full sun or light to semi-shade conditions, the Grotrax has a fine bladed texture and medium to high drought resistance, making it perfect for slopes and various environments.
Grotrax takes pride in providing only the highest quality, certified weed-free, award-winning Oregon seed in each bio roll. The product is designed to be environmentally friendly, easy to use, and produces impressive results. With Grotrax Grass Seed fabric, you can easily create your perfect lawn without any hassle or stress.
3. Southern Low-Maintenance Lawn Mix, 5lbs.
Looking for a low maintenance and lush grass seed to replace your high maintenance or problematic lawn seed varieties? Look no further than the Bahia grass seed from Hancock Farm & Seed Co.
This popular seed variety produces a wide-bladed and attractive lawn and pasture grass that requires less watering than other grass seeds. Thanks to its 10 to 12 feet of dense root structure, the Argentine Bahia grass is a low maintenance option that requires less frequent watering.
But that's not all. This Bahia grass mixture, which includes 75% coated Argentine Bahia grass and 25% Browntop Millet, is also resistant to soil and seed erosion, making it a great option for areas that experience heavy rain or wind.
Best of all, this grass seed is warm season friendly, making it an ideal choice for the southern United States where warm weather persists. Whether you live in a drought-prone area or simply want to reduce your water usage, the Bahia grass seed from Hancock Farm & Seed Co. is a great option.
With 40 years of experience in growing, harvesting, and processing top-quality seeds, Hancock Farm & Seed Co. offers seeds direct from farmers since 1978. You can trust that you're getting a reliable and high-quality product that has been carefully grown and harvested in Florida, USA.
4. St. Augustine Palmetto | 18 Live Extra Large Grass Plugs | Drought, Salt & Shade Tolerant Turf Sod
Florida Foliage is proud to package and ship Palmetto St. Augustine grass, a cultivar that stands out for its superior color and finer texture compared to ordinary St. Augustine grass. This versatile turfgrass is ideal for residential and commercial use, with exceptional tolerance to shade, cold, frost, heat, and drought.
Palmetto grass has become a landscaping standard since its introduction in 1994, and it has been used in thousands of lawns across the southern United States. However, it's important to note that Palmetto St. Augustine grass is a living plant that requires proper maintenance for optimal performance.
Palmetto grass is a semi-dwarf grass that gives a plush appearance similar to Seville and Delmar, but with less tendency to become thatchy, even in full sunlight. Its leaf blade width is similar to Bitterblue and Raleigh, and finer than Floratam. When mowed high (3" – 4"), it can be mistaken for fescue. Unlike Floratam, its leaf blades are tapered at the tip with a rounded end and they are soft to the touch.
Palmetto grass boasts superior longevity and will remain green longer than any other variety of St. Augustine. In fact, it will stay green much longer than Bermuda grass and Centipede grass. It will gradually become dormant after several heavy frosts, but it will remain evergreen in temperatures below freezing if there are no hard frosts.
With exceptional drought tolerance demonstrated in field tests, Palmetto grass is an excellent choice for areas with limited water resources. St. Augustine grasses in general are known for their shade tolerance, and Palmetto has exceptional shade tolerance, even when compared to the most shade tolerant varieties of St. Augustine.
5. Midnight Cool Season Lawn Seed – 10 Lbs.
Midnight Kentucky bluegrass seed is a highly rated and popular perennial grass seed that is widely used in the United States for its exceptional qualities. This grass seed has been evaluated in numerous NTEP evaluations and has consistently proven to be a top choice for lawns in the northern or transition zone.
One of the key features of this grass seed is its beautiful dark green color and soft texture. It creates a thick carpet that has an unusually dark rich blue-green color, making it a visually appealing addition to any lawn. Additionally, this grass seed has a slow growth habit, making it easy to maintain and manage.
Midnight Kentucky bluegrass seed is also highly tolerant to drought and disease, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners, parks, golf courses, and athletic fields. It can withstand high traffic and remains thick and lush, even in harsh weather conditions.
This grass seed is extremely cold tolerant, making it an excellent choice for areas with harsh winters. It has been proven to withstand the coldest temperatures, ensuring that your lawn remains green and healthy all year round.
To plant a new lawn using Midnight Kentucky bluegrass seed, it is recommended to sow 2 to 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet of this top-rated seed. With more than 15 years of proven excellence, this grass seed is an ideal choice for anyone looking to establish a beautiful and easy-to-maintain lawn.
6. Southern Gold Tall Fescue: Tough, Durable, Lush.
The Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Southern Gold Mix is the perfect solution for those who wish to maintain a lush, green lawn even in the harshest of summer conditions. This Southern grass seed mix has specifically been bred to withstand the scorching heat and drought that is often experienced during the summer months.
The mix is comprised of tall fescue lawns that have a medium-coarse bladed texture and high drought resistance. This means that the grass will not only look great but will also be able to withstand high traffic areas, making it ideal for families with children and pets.
The exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating is a key feature of this mix. This coating is designed to absorb more water, which in turn feeds the essential nutrients required for healthy growth and protects seedlings from disease. This combination of features ensures that the grass will grow healthy and strong, even in the toughest of conditions.
Each purchase includes six 3lb. bags, each of which can seed up to 750 sq. ft. This is a great value for homeowners who need to cover a large area.
Please note that the Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Southern Gold Mix is not available in all states. For best results, it is recommended that this mix be used in areas where the summer conditions are particularly harsh.
7. Golden State Cool Season Lawn Seed By Jonathan Green
The California grass seed from Black Beauty Golden State is the perfect solution for those who are looking for a lush and green lawn in drought-prone areas. This specially formulated grass seed is designed to thrive in the unique growing conditions of California.
The ideal time to apply this grass seed is from mid-August to mid-October. It contains a mix of tall fescues and Texas bluegrass, making it suitable for growing in both sunny and shady areas. This cool-season grass seed is sure to provide complete coverage for your lawn.
One of the unique features of Black Beauty Golden State grass seed is its ability to retain moisture. The roots of this grass can grow up to 4-feet deep, and it has a waxy leaf coating that limits evaporation. It's also able to withstand heavy traffic, making it perfect for those with kids or pets.
This grass seed mix produces a healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color. The 3 lb bag of Black Beauty Golden State grass seed is enough to seed up to 750 sq. ft. for new lawns. For overseeding, the same bag can seed up to 1,500 sq. ft.
The germination time for this grass seed is 14 to 21 days. With its ability to thrive in drought-prone areas and provide complete coverage with a dark-green lawn, Black Beauty Golden State grass seed is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance the appearance of their outdoor spaces.
8. Ez Patch And Repair, Bermudagrass ($ Brand): Mulch+sd+frtlzr
Introducing the high-performance grass seed from Scotts – an all-in-one solution for a lush and healthy lawn. This premium grass seed is designed to thrive in a variety of environments, from scorching heat to dry areas, high traffic areas, and sloping lawns.
To ensure optimal growth, the grass seed is paired with a special mulch that absorbs six times its weight in water. As the mulch expands, it surrounds the seed in a moist and protective layer, creating the perfect growing environment.
Additionally, the exclusive controlled-release fertilizer technology feeds seedlings to jumpstart growth, promoting strong and healthy grass from the start. The tackifier in the formula helps keep the seed from washing away, ensuring that your lawn will have even coverage.
Furthermore, the protectant in the formula helps keep seedlings safe from harmful diseases that can attack newly planted areas. This means that you can have peace of mind knowing your lawn is protected from diseases while it grows and thrives.
9. Pennington Smart Patch Sun And Shade Mix 10 Lb
Looking for a solution to fix bare spots in your lawn? Look no further than Smart Seed, Fertilizer, and Mulch! This innovative product is designed to help repair those unsightly bare patches and promote healthy growth in your lawn.
Smart Seed contains a special tackifier that helps protect the seed on slopes, hills, and during rain, ensuring that your seeds stay in place and have the best chance at success. It's made up of a blend of American Rye, Perennial Rye, and Kentucky Bluegrass, which are perfect for lawns that receive sun in some areas and moderate shade in others.
Not only does Smart Seed promote healthy growth, but it also contains microbials that can help prevent disease and improve the overall health of your lawn. The tackifier acts like a blanket, protecting your seed from washing away and ensuring that it stays in place.
One of the most unique features of Smart Seed is the mulch that is included in the formula. This mulch turns a lighter color when dry, indicating when it's time to water again. This helps you save up to 30% more water year after year versus ordinary grass seed.
Smart Seed also contains the perfect amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed. This means that you don't need to worry about over or under fertilizing your lawn, as Smart Seed has got you covered.
Finally, you'll be pleased to know that Smart Seed is incredibly easy to use. Seedling emergence can occur in as little as 5 days, and you can rest assured that your lawn will be the envy of your neighbors in no time.
10. Floratam St. Augustine Grass Plugs / Box Of 72
Attention garden enthusiasts! If you're looking for a plant that can thrive in hot and humid climates, then look no further than this offering. However, please note that due to current agricultural restrictions, this product cannot be shipped to California or Arizona.
This plant is well-suited for areas with USDA planting zones 8-11, and it has been designed to thrive under direct sunlight. In order to ensure optimal growth, it is recommended that this plant be grown in areas with mild winters.
Each order includes large 3 inch plugs, making it easy to begin planting and enjoying your new greenery. And, best of all, shipping is completely free!
Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, this plant is a great choice for those looking to add some greenery to their outdoor space. With its ability to thrive in hot and humid climates, it's sure to be a welcome addition to any garden. So why wait? Order now and get ready to start enjoying the benefits of this stunning plant!
Best Lawn Grass For Southern California FAQs
Are there any grasses that are resistant to pests and diseases in Southern California?
Yes, there are several types of grasses that are resistant to pests and diseases in Southern California. One of the most popular options is the Bermuda grass, which is known for its hardiness and durability in hot and dry climates. It is highly resistant to pests and diseases, making it a great choice for homeowners and businesses alike. Another option is the Zoysia grass, which is also known for its resistance to pests and diseases and its ability to tolerate heavy foot traffic. It is also drought-tolerant, making it a great option for areas that receive limited rainfall. Finally, the St. Augustine grass is another popular choice for Southern California, as it is highly resistant to pests and diseases and can thrive in both sun and shade. Overall, there are several grasses that can withstand the challenges of Southern California's climate and provide a lush, green lawn year-round.
Can I have a lush green lawn in Southern California without wasting water?
Yes, it is possible to have a lush green lawn in Southern California without wasting water. One way to achieve this is by choosing the right type of grass that is drought-tolerant and requires less water. Some examples of such grasses include Bermuda grass, buffalo grass, and zoysia grass. Another way to conserve water is by installing a smart irrigation system that takes into account weather conditions and adjusts watering accordingly. Additionally, aerating the lawn regularly can help improve water absorption and prevent water runoff. It is also important to mow the lawn at the appropriate height to encourage healthy growth and retain moisture. Finally, reducing the size of the lawn and replacing it with drought-tolerant plants or hardscaping can significantly decrease water usage and still provide an attractive outdoor space. By implementing these strategies, it is possible to have a beautiful lawn while also conserving water in Southern California.
How do I choose the right grass for my Southern California lawn?
Choosing the right grass for your lawn in Southern California can be a bit of a challenge. Since the region is known for its hot and dry weather, it's important to choose a grass type that can thrive in such conditions. The most common grass types that are suitable for Southern California lawns include Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and St. Augustine grass.
Bermuda grass is a popular choice for many Southern California homeowners due to its ability to withstand heat and drought. It has a fine texture and can handle heavy foot traffic, making it perfect for active families. Zoysia grass is also a great option, as it is low-maintenance and can adapt well to different soil types. St. Augustine grass is another popular choice, known for its ability to grow well in shaded areas and its tolerance for salty soil.
When choosing the right grass for your Southern California lawn, it's important to consider factors such as your budget, the amount of sunlight your lawn receives, and how much maintenance you are willing to commit to. Consulting with a local lawn care professional can also be beneficial in determining the best grass type for your specific needs.
How do I maintain my Southern California lawn during the hot summer months?
Maintaining a lawn in Southern California during the hot summer months can be challenging, but with a few simple tips, you can keep your lawn healthy and green. Firstly, water your lawn deeply and infrequently. Watering deeply encourages the roots to grow deeper, making the grass more drought-resistant. It is best to water early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation. Secondly, mow your lawn at a higher setting. Taller grass shades the soil and retains moisture better. Thirdly, fertilize your lawn regularly. A well-fed lawn is stronger and better able to handle stress. Fourthly, aerate your lawn once a year to help water and nutrients reach the roots. Finally, watch out for pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for brown patches or unusual growths and treat them promptly. By following these tips, you can keep your lawn healthy and green throughout the hot summer months in Southern California.
How often should I fertilize my Southern California lawn?
The frequency of fertilizing your Southern California lawn depends on various factors, including the type of grass, soil type, weather conditions, and the time of year. Generally, it is recommended to fertilize warm-season grasses such as Bermuda, Zoysia, or St. Augustine in late spring or early summer when the grass is actively growing. This is typically around May or June in Southern California. You can then apply a second round of fertilization in late summer or early fall before the cooler weather sets in.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions when it comes to applying fertilizers. Overfertilization can lead to excessive growth, which can harm the grass and require more frequent mowing. Additionally, make sure to water your lawn adequately after fertilizing to avoid burning the grass.
In summary, fertilizing your Southern California lawn once or twice a year, depending on the growth cycle and weather conditions, can help keep your lawn healthy and lush.
What are the best types of lawn grass for Southern California?
Southern California has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild winters. Therefore, the best types of lawn grass for this region should be drought-tolerant and can withstand the intense heat. Some of the best grass types for Southern California include Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, St. Augustine grass, and Buffalo grass.
Bermuda grass is a popular choice for Southern California due to its excellent drought tolerance, heat resistance, and ability to grow in various soil types. Zoysia grass is another great option as it can tolerate shade, drought, and heat well. St. Augustine grass is a low-maintenance grass that can handle salty soil and mild shade. Buffalo grass is also an excellent choice for Southern California as it is drought-tolerant and requires less water and maintenance.
When selecting a grass type for your lawn, it is essential to consider factors such as water availability, soil type, and the amount of sunlight the area receives. Consulting with a local landscaping professional can help you make the best choice for your lawn.
What are the most drought-tolerant grasses for Southern California?
Southern California is known for its hot and dry climate, making it challenging to maintain a healthy and lush lawn. However, several drought-tolerant grasses can thrive in this region. Among the most popular are Bermuda grass, buffalo grass, and zoysia grass. Bermuda grass is considered the most drought-tolerant grass, as it can withstand long periods of drought and remain green. Buffalo grass, on the other hand, is a native grass to Southern California, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance option. It requires less water and fertilizer than other grass types, and it can handle foot traffic well. Lastly, Zoysia grass is another drought-tolerant option that is known for its ability to resist pests and diseases. It is a slow-growing grass that can handle drought well and is ideal for areas with moderate to high foot traffic. It's essential to choose the right grass type based on your specific needs and the region's climate to ensure a healthy and lush lawn.
What are the pros and cons of using artificial turf in Southern California?
Artificial turf has become a popular landscaping option in Southern California due to its low maintenance and water-saving benefits. However, there are both pros and cons to using artificial turf in this region.
Some of the benefits of using artificial turf include its ability to conserve water, saving homeowners money on their water bills and helping to alleviate the water shortage problem in the region. Additionally, artificial turf requires very little maintenance, eliminating the need for mowing, watering, and fertilizing, which saves time, money, and energy. Another advantage of synthetic grass is that it looks great all year round, regardless of weather conditions.
On the other hand, there are some downsides to using artificial turf. One of the main disadvantages is that synthetic grass can get very hot in direct sunlight, which can be a problem for pets and children. Additionally, artificial turf is not biodegradable, and it can release harmful chemicals into the environment over time. Finally, synthetic grass can be expensive to install, with some estimates placing the cost at around $10 per square foot.
Overall, the decision to use artificial turf in Southern California depends on the individual homeowner's preferences and priorities. While synthetic grass does offer some benefits, it is important to weigh these against the potential disadvantages before making a decision.
What grass varieties are best for high-traffic areas in Southern California?
When it comes to high-traffic areas in Southern California, there are several grass varieties that can withstand heavy foot traffic and still maintain their lush green appearance. Bermuda grass is a popular choice due to its durability and quick-growing nature. It is a warm-season grass that thrives in full sun and can tolerate drought conditions. Zoysia grass is another option that is known for its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and recover quickly from damage. It is a low-maintenance grass that grows well in hot and humid weather. Lastly, St. Augustine grass is a shade-tolerant variety that can withstand moderate foot traffic. It is a popular choice for areas with partial shade and is known for its ability to grow quickly and fill in gaps. Ultimately, the best grass variety for high-traffic areas in Southern California will depend on the specific location and factors such as sun exposure, foot traffic, and watering requirements.
What is the cost of installing and maintaining a lawn in Southern California?
The cost of installing and maintaining a lawn in Southern California can vary depending on several factors. Factors that affect the cost of installation include the size of the lawn, the type of grass you choose, and the cost of labor. The cost of maintaining a lawn in Southern California will depend on the type of grass you have, the size of your lawn, and the amount of maintenance required.
In terms of installation, the cost can range from a few thousand dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars. This cost includes the cost of removing existing grass, preparing the soil, installing new grass, and any necessary irrigation systems.
As for maintenance, the cost can range from a few hundred dollars a year to a few thousand dollars a year. This cost includes regular mowing, watering, fertilizing, and pest control. If you choose a drought-resistant grass, you may be able to save money on watering costs.
Overall, it's important to consider the long-term cost when deciding whether to install and maintain a lawn in Southern California. While the upfront cost may be high, the long-term benefits of a beautiful lawn may be worth it.