Throughout the years, grass varieties have been selected for their adaptation to various climates and uses. The United States has been divided into climatic regions for purposes of classifying grasses into the best region of adaptability. For the northern part of Nevada, which has cold winters, the cool season grasses are the best adapted. Cool season grass species include Kentucky bluegrass, annual and perennial ryegrass, fescues and bentgrass. Drought tolerant species like buffalo grass and wheatgrasses can be used for turf where a low maintenance, utility type turf is desired.
Kentucky bluegrass is the most popular of the turf grasses in northern Nevada.
Its fine leaf blades form a dense turf that will withstand some wear and tear and has the ability to mend when damaged. Its rhizomes spread to provide an excellent dense growth. Kentucky bluegrass has a dark green color and grows in most soils with moderate amounts of water. Kentucky bluegrass is susceptible to diseases such as brown patch and melting out. These diseases can be kept to a minimum through good maintenance practices.