The Grass Doctor

Which type(s) of grass would be best for a shady, highly-trafficked, Georgia backyard?

I've got a very shady and tree-filled (i.e., mostly in shade all the time, though some patches of sunlight do get through here and there) backyard which should be/will be having children, dogs, and adults trafficking and playing all over it. The yard is a little hilly, and is mostly one long (though not terribly steep) slope. I live in north Georgia (meaning the ground is generally full of red Georgia clay, though the concentration in my yard doesn't appear to be terribly high). Does anyone have any suggestions as to grass types or places/websites I could go for more information? (This is probably obvious, but I'm also trying to keep costs (both installation and maintenance) and effort (both installation and maintenance) down, especially since I'm planning on/probably going to be doing most of the work myself. These aspects aren't AS important at this point however.) Thanks very much in advance!

Public Comments

1. maui wowii
2. Fine fescue or perhaps companion zoysia. Just use caution if you decide on zoysia because it has such an invasive root system and can spoil other grasses planted in and around your house (your neighbors' lawns, for example). Also if you are in North Ga., zoysia will turn brown if your area gets cool weather, and it usually doesn't come back until it's spring again. Zoysia is very wear-resistant, exhibits OK shade-tolerance, needs good drainage and is usually slow-growing; i.e., lower-maintenance. Fine fescue will be much less wear-resistant, but is great in the shade. Fescue will also stay green most of the year, and shows good drought resistance. Fescue is easy to maintain and is non-aggressive, so it will mix well with whatever turfs are already present. It establishes quickly, too. Good luck!