The Grass Doctor

Replanting front yard in NE Ohio?

This past winter we had a young man lose control of his car in icy roads and end up in the middle of our front yard. We have two very large ruts and are planning to replant the entire front yard this spring. Area is approximately 30' wide and 20' long. We like the look of Kentucky Bluegrass but are not sure about what to plant and when to do it in order to have the best success. 1. Is Kentucky Bluegrass suitable for out area (Zone 5a) and for a lawn that gets direct sun from sunrise to about 3 pm (east facing)? 2. When would be the best time to plant in the spring, since we often can have frost as late as mid-May? 3. What should we add to the soil after rototiling, if anything? 4. Would sod be a costly alternative? We do have a sod farm a few miles away with Kentucky Blueglass. Thanks for any help.

Public Comments

1. 1. Kentucky Bluegrass will grow in most cold winter climates. Its best to get a blend of Bluegrass and Rye or Fescue. 2. Seed after any chance of a hard frost. 3. A good, balanced starter fertilizer will help with germination and root development. Something close to a 19-19-19 would be great. Also, make sure to top dress the seed by raking soil over it when you are done. Straw helps hold it down, too. 4. Sod is more expensive, but you get an instant lawn. Problem is that the turf was babied at the sod farm and needs to be babied once you put it down. Generally you end up with a much healthier lawn with a far superior root system when you seed. You just need to be patient and make sure to keep it watered. Hope this helps!