The Grass Doctor

What is the best type of grass to plant in a heavily shaded area? I live in North Texas so would prefer one?

that is drought resistant. Thanks in advance for any advice.

Public Comments

1. No grass is going to grow in heavy shade. We share the same transition zone for lawns, neither warm or cool season grasses work well, tall fescue is about our only hope......tho buffalo and bluegrama work well..........in full sun. Back to shade, about all you can hope for is Chewings Red Fescue for shady areas......heavy shade, nope, not even there.
2. Buffalo if available in your hemisphere is best,but hard landscaping is also an option in problem areas that cant take soft lanscaping.That is paving or a thick bark mulch for the kids or instant lawn or shade loving plants,wonder lawn also an option.Your local nursery is always the best for options as they normally have the plants that are in season at the time.
3. I agree that no grass will grow here in N. Texas without sun. I use cedar mulch under our tree where no sun shines. There are a few ground cover plants which can grow in shade if the soil is amended from the clay we have, with lots of compost mixed in. Check at your local Calloway's for good advice and good plants.
4. Very hard to grow anything in heavy shade. Rye grass if it will grow in you area is may be worth looking at. I would go for a ground cover if you aren't going to walk on it constantly. Depending on the climate dichondra is nice. Violets are surprisingly happy in heavy shade. Ajuga or Ivy if you'd like something taller. Chances of a bowling green type lawn of any type of grass is probably non existent. You will find something suitable in perennials.
5. Zoysia might be worth trying. Having said that, I agree with others. There is such thing as too much shade for grass of any kind.