Meet the Expert
Roger Mayis the director of technical operations at TruGreen.
He oversees the lawncare company’s agronomic and horticulture program, technical training, and new product testing.
Lawn Grasses
A well-manicured lawn requires a well-thought-out grass choice.
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It only requires a few hours a day of full sun, so it thrives well in partial shade.
Perennial Ryegrass
Perennial ryegrassdoesn’t perform well in heavy shade on its own.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
But when you pair it with fine fescue, May says you’ll see success.
“It germinates quickly and establishes fast, which can help in shaded areas,” he says.
You’ll need a shade, heat, and drought-tolerant variety, and that’s whereZoysia grasscomes in.
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“Its slower to establish but makes for a dense lawn once it does,” May says.
Here’s what May uses to add some interest to problem spots.
“This grass is a standout in shaded gardens,” May says.
Sweet Flag
There are many reasons to love Sweet Flag.
Blue Fescue
Add a subtle pop of color to your shade in spring and fall withBlue Fescue.
As a result, nutrients can better penetrate the soil.
He also notes that it helps grass roots access nutrients and moisture from the soil.
In general, fall is a great time toaerate your lawn.
However, warm-season grasses may do better with aeration in late spring or early summer.
If your lawn looks healthy overall, you only need to aerate it every two to three years.
However, balance is key.
“Be sure to water deeply but infrequently to avoid over-watering,” May says.
Shade grass is more prone to over-watering and root rot because its soil retains more moisture than sunny spots.
Be sure to do your research before settling on a watering schedule or investing in a sprinkler system.
“Grass will not grow well in dense shade,” May says.
“Pruning overhanging trees and shrubs will help provide sunlight where it is needed.”
A spot that receives consistent shade often makes for a greatpea gravel patiolocation.
