The establishment of a satisfactory, permanent lawn requires the selection of adapted turfgrass species and cultivars. An inferior quality lawn or failure to establish a lawn will result if the grasses selected are not adapted to the environment, level of maintenance, or use. In Michigan, only a few species of grass are suitable for a lawn. They include Kentucky bluegrass, fine-leafed fescue and perennial ryegrass. The relatively new turf type, tall fescues also may prove suitable for selected uses.
Kentucky bluegrass is the most widely used turfgrass in Michigan.
With proper management, it forms a long lasting lawn, and it is an aggressive sod former. Bluegrass grows rapidly during cool, moist weather, with slower growth during hot, dry weather. When rainfall is not adequate, watering is necessary to maintain high quality. Many cultivars of Kentucky bluegrass are available, and new selections are constantly being introduced. Cultivars may differ in color, disease resistance, vigor, and amount of care required for best performance.