Since we are in the northern part of the transition zone, we struggle with the following list of cool-season grasses. But, it damages easily, suffers from heat and drought, requires moderately high maintenance, has a tendency to thatch, is susceptible to many diseases, and is intolerant of shade or salt. Perennial Ryegrass - This turfgrass establishes very rapidly and is often included in grass mixtures to provide a quick cover. It does not wear or recuperate well and is intolerant of heat, drought, shade, and salt. Perennial ryegrass is susceptible to a moderate number of fungal diseases.
Tall fescues have few disease problems and require less maintenance that other grasses.
Kentucky bluegrass is the first grass to brown out in the summer and tall fescue is the last. The only problem with tall fescue is that it does not perform well in combination with other grasses. It should be used as a single species and should not be overseeded into an existing lawn. They are included in turfgrass mixtures for their excellent shade tolerance. It has a high disease potential, poor drought tolerance and requires extremely high levels of maintenance.