It is somewhat shade tolerant, but produces more leaves in full sunlight. Generally, Kentucky bluegrass germinates in the fall. However, other studies indicate that the seed is no longer dormant 6 months after harvest. Alternating temperatures may be more efficient than continuous temperatures in breaking dormancy. Vivipary has been reported for Kentucky bluegrass, but it is extremely uncommon.
Seedlings rapidly establish and form a short tuft.
Plants rapidly spread vegetatively by rhizomes and tillers forming a sod. Rhizomes represent important carbohydrate sinks for Kentucky bluegrass. Most rhizomes develop just below the soil surface. Those developing at and slightly above the soil surface turn downwards. Rhizome elongation is dependent on environmental conditions.