Regarding lawn care in Bartlett, TN, the type of grass you choose can have a significant impact. To know what kind of grass your lawn needs, it’s helpful to understand the environmental conditions, the climate, and the grass that grows best there.

Warm Season Turfgrass

In Bartlett, warm-season turfgrass grows best from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (27-35°C). Warm-season grasses include bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.), centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, and Zoysia (Zoysia spp.). These turfgrasses are best planted between May 1st and June 30th. You can install sod year-round as long as there is no frozen soil.

Cool-Season Turfgrass

Cool-season turf prefers 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (16-24°C). The most common varieties are bluegrass (Poa spp.), fescues (Festuca spp.), and ryegrasses (Lolium spp.). These turfgrasses should be planted from late August to mid-October. However, late winter or early spring is sometimes possible with fescues and ryegrasses. The ideal timing for planting sod of cool season grasses is usually considered January through June and September through December.

How to Plant Different Types of Turfgrasses

  • Seeded grasses: Some grasses can grow from seeds, including cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass, and warm-season varieties, such as species from the genera Eremochloa, Cynodon, or Lolium species. However, note that it takes time for them to become fully established. This method takes the most amount of time before seeing results.
  • Sod: If you want to establish a lawn quickly, start with quality sod. It is readily available from many suppliers and can be laid easily in most areas. If the soil beneath is well-prepared beforehand, it will help ensure the grass establishes quickly and vigorously.
  • Plugging: If you want grass that looks like it’s been there forever, consider plugging. This method involves cutting out small plugs of sod and replanting them on the lawn. It takes considerable effort, but it can yield a beautiful carpet-like property that looks natural and established.

After Installation Care Considerations

After the grass installation, it is essential to remember that proper care and maintenance are vital for turfgrass health and success. Recommended post-installation care includes:

  • Applying fertilizer: Fertilizer should be used thrice yearly, with a slow-release nitrogen or organic fertilizer recommended.
  • Mowing regularly: Grass should be cut at least once per week, with the height of the grass being dependent on the type.
  • Watering: Watering should be done in moderation and when necessary; avoid over-watering.

 

Resource: https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/W160-F.pdf