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How to Grow Grass in the Shade

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Posted in Yard Care 101

Shady Grass by Tree with swingGrowing grass in shady areas can be challenging, but as long as some sunlight reaches the ground, it is possible. Here is what you should do:

  • Buy a high quality grass seed mix for shady areas from a local garden or home center, which will sell grass varieties that grow well in your area. Do your best to match the grass type you already have in the rest of your lawn or ask for assistance. 
  • For best results, seed the shady area (and overseed shady areas where grass has trouble growing) in fall, as the leaves from the surrounding trees begin to thin out. This will allow more sun to reach the soil surface, giving the new grass a strong start. The second best time to seed shady areas is spring, before the trees have leafed out.
  • Follow the seeding instructions. The key is to get good soil-to-seed contact and keep the area moist until the grass sprouts.
  • Apply a starter fertilizer to encourage strong growth.

Chances are you will have to maintain this area of your lawn a little differently than that in full sunlight. For instance, overseeding each fall is a good idea. You may also have to cut and water it less often.

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