The use of annual ryegrass or older varieties of perennial ryegrass are not recommended for Ohio lawns. Newer varieties of perennial ryegrass developed specifically for turf have higher density, improved mowing quality, greater cold tolerance, better disease resistance, darker green color and finer leaf texture than the older perennial ryegrass selections. These improved varieties exhibit quick germination, and rapid establishment making them ideal selections for use as a quick cover and in heavily trafficked areas. All perennial ryegrasses require well-drained soils of medium to high fertility. The maintenance, fertility and pH requirements are similar to the improved bluegrasses.
Supplemental irrigation is required to maintain high quality during drought conditions.
Tall fescue continues to be a preferred species selection for usage on many Ohio turfgrass sites, particularly in the southern part of the state. Tall fescues in general tolerate soils of low fertility, persist well under low maintenance, and possess good insect and disease tolerance under Ohio conditions. This species possesses rapid establishment, excellent wear tolerance and due to its deep rooted nature, is heat and drought tolerant and will remain green through most Ohio summers without supplemental irrigation. Juvenile tall fescue seedlings are not cold tolerant and will be prone to winterkill. However, well-established seedlings and mature lawns will endure most Ohio winters.