The Best Grass Varieties for Shade and Sun for Ontario Home Lawns

Recommendations for Specific Sod Types Based on Property Needs

Depending on the environment where you are looking to lay sod, will determine the type that has the best chance for success.

For Sunny Locations, Consider: Kentucky Bluegrass

This is the standard sod type for homeowner lawns because it is not only winter hardy but it can also survive our summers. It may go dormant during hot times, but it bounces back in the fall. It has the ability to recover with a spreading growth habit and a rhizomatous root system. It is an aesthetically pleasing dark blue-green color with a thick blade. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH and a well drained soil (sandy loam). On the downside, it requires a decent amount of maintenance, a good amount of fertilizer and frequent watering which makes it time consuming to maintain.

For not-so Sunny Locations, Consider: Tall Fescue

This sod type is becoming more and more popular with homeowners who struggle to grow Kentucky Bluegrass in select areas. It has a close aesthetic look and growth habit to Kentucky Bluegrass, but doesn’t require as many inputs (sunlight, water, fertility, mowing, etc..). This has become the go to grass in residential homes that have shady areas. Its downside is that it isn’t nearly as winter hardy as Kentucky Bluegrass, leaving it more susceptible to Grey Snow Mould. The Tall Fescue should grow out of this superficial disease once it begins growing but could come out of the winter looking unsightly. As well, it takes longer to come out of dormancy in the Spring than the Kentucky Bluegrass. This means it will green up generally a few weeks later than Kentucky Bluegrass.  

The long and short of it is Kentucky Bluegrass is the go to for most locations on your property. If you have an especially difficult area to grow grass, Tall Fescue may be an option to consider as long as you are okay with its downsides.

For No Sun Options, Consider: 

The last option if neither of these two work, is to use a low growing shrub, mulch or landscaping such as a rock garden in that area instead. Due to the environmental benefits of sod, it is worth trying natural grass first before looking at alternatives.

Not sure which sod type is right for your property? Whether you’re working with full sun, part shade, or a tricky corner of your yard, our team is here to help you make the best decision. Browse our sod options or reach out for expert recommendations tailored to your space.

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