Best Grass For Shade And High Traffic (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the perfect type of grass that can withstand the challenges of high-traffic areas and shade, you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right grass can be an important decision to make for your home, especially if you have a busy family or plenty of visitors. But with so many options available, choosing the best grass for shade and high-traffic can be a daunting task.
Before purchasing any grass for your yard, readers need to consider the following factors: First, they need to evaluate the location of the area they want to cover. Is it a region that sees high traffic or one that gets plenty of shade? They need to figure out the amount of sunlight the area gets and the amount of foot traffic it’s expected to get. Second, they need to consider the maintenance level the grass requires, including watering, fertilizing, and mowing. Lastly, readers should also consider their budget and whether they plan on hiring a professional for installation.
Some questions that might catch the reader's attention include: Are you tired of your grass getting worn out quickly due to high traffic or insufficient shade? Are you looking for a solution that can help enhance your home's curb appeal with the ideal type of grass? Are you worried about having to replace your grass every year due to heavy foot traffic? Well, look no further because we have all the answers to your questions. By following the aforementioned factors, you can easily find the best grass for shade and high traffic in no time.
10 Best Grass For Shade And High Traffic
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
Ideal for growing grass in shaded areas with reduced sunlight, providing thick and healthy coverage.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for growing a lush, thick turf with tall fescue grass in areas with both sun and shade.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The product is ideal for filling bare spots in lawns that receive varying sunlight levels.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
Ideal for growing athletic field grass in areas of sun and partial shade.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
Ideal for growing grass in shady areas during cool seasons.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
Ideal for quickly growing green grass in both sunny and shady areas, with a combination of seed and fertilizer.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
Ideal for high traffic areas and erosion control.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
Ideal for lawns in full sun to heavier shade with higher foot traffic areas.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
Ideal for growing thick, lush grass in areas with limited sunlight or shaded conditions.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal for creating a lush, durable lawn with superior drought tolerance and disease resistance.
|
|
1. Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed Dense Shade Mixture – 20 Lbs.
Looking for a top-rated, premium quality grass seed that can withstand drought, insects, disease, heat, and heavy traffic? Look no further than A-LIST grass seed mixture, formulated for use on lawns that receive no more than 4-6 hours of filtered sun per day.
This proprietary mixture is 99.9% weed-free, ensuring a lush, green lawn with minimal upkeep. The uncoated seed ensures maximum coverage, so you can achieve professional-looking results with ease.
With coverage of up to 5,000 sq. ft. for new lawns or 10,000 sq. ft. for overseeding, A-LIST grass seed mixture is an excellent choice for those looking to cover a larger area. And for even better results, pair it with GreenView Fairway Formula Seeding Success, a one-step starter fertilizer and seeding mulch that guarantees successful seed germination.
Thanks to fast seed germination in as little as 7 days, you'll be enjoying a beautiful, healthy lawn in no time. And with the GreenView Yard Wide Guarantee, your satisfaction is guaranteed – or your money back.
So why wait? Choose A-LIST grass seed mixture for professional results, superior resistance, and a lush, green lawn that will make your neighbors jealous.
2. Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed Turf Type Tall Fescue Sun & Shade Blend – 20 Lbs.
This lawn seed blend is designed for use in lawns that receive both sun and shade. Its carefully selected mix of seed varieties ensures that it will thrive in even the most extreme environments. The A-LIST blend is 99.9% weed-free, thanks to a proprietary mix of top-quality seeds.
In addition to being weed-free, this lawn seed blend provides top-rated resistance to a variety of environmental challenges. It can withstand high heat, drought, insects, diseases, and heavy traffic from children and pets. The seeds are uncoated, which ensures maximum seed coverage.
This lawn seed blend is ideal for use in a variety of situations. It can be used to fill in bare spots, seed a new lawn, or overseed an existing lawn. When used to seed a new lawn, it provides coverage for up to 2,500 square feet. When overseeding an existing lawn, it provides coverage for up to 5,000 square feet.
For best results, this lawn seed blend should be paired with GreenView Fairway Formula Seeding Success. This one-step starter fertilizer and seeding mulch guarantees successful seed germination, and can help the seeds germinate in as little as 7-14 days when used as directed.
This lawn seed blend is backed by a professional rights guarantee, so you can be confident in its quality and performance. Additionally, it is covered by the GreenView Yard Wide Guarantee, which guarantees your satisfaction or your money back.
3. Pennington One Step Complete Sun & Shade Bare Spot Grass Seed, 5 Pounds, White
This lawn repair product is a game-changer for anyone looking to revitalize their lawn without any hassle. Within two weeks or less, it repairs any bare spots that may have been bothering you. It is a pre-mixed and ready-to-use solution that includes all the essentials you need to grow a beautiful, lush lawn. The combination of premium Smart Seed grass seed, professional-grade fertilizer, and mulch ensures that your lawn is healthy and thick.
The package provides coverage of up to 75 sq. ft. and seed germination is expected within 7-14 days. This lawn repair product saves you time and effort, as everything is already mixed and ready to go. It is an effective solution to ensure that your lawn looks its best all year round.
The professional-grade fertilizer included in the mix ensures that your lawn gets all the essential nutrients it needs to grow healthy and green. This product is perfect for anyone who wants a simple and effective way to repair their lawn without the need for any additional tools or equipment.
4. Sun & Shade Athletic Grass Seed – 5 Lbs.
Looking for the ultimate lawn seed mixture that can withstand both sunlight and partial shade? Look no further than this durable and reliable option that is sure to impress. With a thick, green lawn that lasts, this seed mixture is ideal for those who want to create a beautiful lawn that can withstand high traffic.
Formulated with wear tolerant varieties, this seed mixture is specifically designed to create a tough turf that can handle anything you throw its way. Plus, with a 99.9% weed-free guarantee, you can rest assured that you are getting the best quality seeds possible.
Perfect for athletic fields, this grass seed mixture is versatile enough to be used in a variety of different settings. Whether you are looking to grow or overseed an athletic field or simply want to improve the look of your backyard, this seed can be used in many different circumstances.
Ideal for growing in the early spring or fall when daily temperatures are between 60 and 80 degrees, this seed mixture requires low watering to thrive. With a germination and coverage time of 7-12 days, you can quickly and easily create the lawn of your dreams.
So if you are looking for a reliable and durable lawn seed mixture that can withstand anything, look no further than this option. With a coverage of 10 lbs/1000 sq ft for new lawns and 5 lbs/1000 sq ft for overseeding, you can easily create the lawn of your dreams with ease.
5. Jonathan Green (10610) Black Beauty Dense Shade Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)
Looking for a grass seed that can thrive in areas with limited sunlight? Look no further than Shade Tolerant Grass Seed, a specially designed mixture of four cool-season turfgrass families that provide a dark green lawn even in the shadiest of areas.
This grass seed mix is perfect for lawns with large trees, shrubs, or other permanent structures that limit the amount of sunlight that reaches the ground. By providing shade-tolerant grass seeds, this mixture ensures that your lawn stays green and healthy no matter how much shade it receives.
One of the key benefits of Shade Tolerant Grass Seed is that it produces a dense, attractive turf with a dark-green color. This creates a lush and inviting lawn that is perfect for relaxing, playing, or entertaining.
Another benefit of this grass seed mix is that it germinates and establishes quickly, with a germination time of just 14-21 days. Additionally, the turfgrass varieties in this mixture possess beneficial endophytes that help promote healthy growth and reduce the risk of disease.
Shade Tolerant Grass Seed contains four cool-season grasses, including turf-type tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial rye, and fine fescues. This creates great versatility in shady to partial sun lawns, ensuring that your lawn stays healthy and green no matter what the conditions are like.
With a 25 lb bag that can seed up to 7,500 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 15,000 sq. ft. for overseeding, Shade Tolerant Grass Seed provides complete coverage for all of your lawn needs. The best time to apply this grass seed is mid-August to mid-October, or mid-March through mid-May, depending on your location and climate.
6. Green In Weeks: Turf Builder Sun & Shade.
Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix is an exceptional lawn care product that allows homeowners to grow grass up to twice as fast as seed alone. This revolutionary mix of seed and fertilizer is designed to provide full, green grass in just a matter of weeks.
This product is ideal for large problem areas in your lawn or for establishing new grass. Whether you are looking to fill in bare spots or create a brand new lawn, Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix is an excellent choice.
For best results, it is recommended that you apply this lawn care product in the spring or fall when temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F. This will help to ensure that your grass grows quickly and efficiently.
One 16 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix can cover up to 2,395 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 8,000 sq. ft. for overseeding. This makes it an economical and efficient choice for homeowners who want to achieve a lush, green lawn without breaking the bank.
Please note that this product may not be available in every state. If you are unsure whether or not it is available in your area, be sure to check with your local retailer.
7. Scotts High Traffic Grass Seed Mix – 3 Lbs.
Introducing the Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix, a top-quality grass seed blend that is the perfect solution for repairing bare spots and promoting a lush, green lawn. Designed to establish quickly, this mix is ideal for high traffic areas and erosion control.
This grass seed blend is specifically formulated to thrive in areas with full sun and light shade, featuring a fine bladed texture with low drought resistance. Whether you're seeding a new lawn or overseeding an existing one, this lawn care product is the perfect choice for achieving a vibrant and healthy lawn.
Each seed in this mix is wrapped in a unique 4-in-1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating, which provides a range of benefits. This coating helps to keep the seed moist for twice as long as uncoated seed, jumpstarts growth with added nutrients, and also protects against disease.
With a coverage of 375 sq. ft. for new lawns and 1,250 sq. ft. for overseeding, one 3 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix is perfect for small to medium-sized lawns.
Whether you're a seasoned lawn care professional or a homeowner looking to improve the appearance of your lawn, the Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix is the ideal solution for achieving a healthy and vibrant lawn. So why wait? Order yours today and start enjoying a beautiful lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood!
8. Tuff Traffic Turf For Shaded Areas – 25lbs
This seed mixture boasts several impressive features that make it an excellent choice for those looking to plant a resilient and low-maintenance lawn.
One of the most notable features of this seed mix is its ability to thrive in various soil types and sun conditions. It can adapt to full sun or reasonably heavy shade and is drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for those living in areas prone to dry spells.
The Tuff Turf Seed Mix is endophyte-enhanced, meaning it can reduce bird and plant-eating insect populations in planted areas. This unique trait makes it a popular choice for use in airports and lake buffers where bird populations are often a concern.
Each variety in this seed mix offers its own set of unique traits, including rapid germination and establishment, excellent traffic tolerance, and shade performance. These traits ensure that the lawn will be robust and resilient.
This seed mixture is also incredibly low-maintenance. It only needs to be mowed biweekly to monthly, and fertilizers are not necessary. Once established, there is no need to water it.
The 25 lb. bag of seeds can cover a spread of 5000 sq. ft and includes Rhambler 2 Turf Type Tall Fescue, Traverse 2 Turf Turf Tall Fescue, Silver Dollar Perennial Ryegrass, and Blue Devil Kentucky Bluegrass. The seeds are viable for up to one year, ensuring that they can be used at the owner's convenience.
9. Jonathan Green Jog10600 40600 Dense Shade Grass Seed, 3 Lb, 3-Pound
Introducing a 3-pound bag of premium grass seed that guarantees to transform your lawn into a lush and vibrant oasis! With 1,800 square foot coverage, this bag of superior grass seed is perfect for homeowners looking to revamp their front or backyard.
This 100% pure and natural grass seed is specially formulated to provide excellent coverage and growth, ensuring that every blade is healthy and strong. The high-quality seed contains no fillers or additives, making it the ideal choice for those who want only the best for their lawn.
With its superior coverage and fast germination rate, it's easy to see why this grass seed is a popular choice among homeowners. Whether you're looking to repair damaged areas, or simply want to improve the overall look of your lawn, this grass seed is the perfect solution.
So, why settle for a dull and lifeless lawn when you can have a lush and vibrant one? Invest in this premium grass seed today and enjoy a beautiful outdoor space that you can be proud of!
10. Lesco Tall Fescue All Pro Transition Blend Grass Seed – 50 Lbs
Introducing the Premium Tall Fescue Grass Seed – a top-of-the-line product that is perfect for those who are looking for a high quality grass seed for their lawn. This grass seed boasts a number of features that make it stand out from the competition.
One of the key advantages of this grass seed is its high tolerance for heavy foot traffic. This means that it is an ideal choice for those who have children or pets who love to play outside. The grass can withstand the wear and tear that comes with frequent use, so you won't have to worry about bald patches or uneven growth.
In addition to its durability, the Premium Tall Fescue Grass Seed is also known for its dark green color and single blades. These features give your lawn a lush, healthy appearance that is sure to impress. Plus, the premium quality of the grass seed ensures that you will see consistent growth and maintenance throughout the year.
This grass seed is specifically designed for mid-southern applications, meaning that it is perfect for those who live in areas with warm summers and mild winters. It is important to note that this product should not be used in areas with extremely hot or cold temperatures, as it may not perform as well.
Best Grass For Shade And High Traffic FAQs
Are there any alternative ground cover options besides grass that may work better in areas with shade and high traffic?
Yes, there are several alternative ground cover options besides grass that can work better in areas with shade and high traffic. One option is to use shade-tolerant ground covers such as creeping jenny, sweet woodruff, or periwinkle. These plants can thrive in shady areas and can withstand high foot traffic. Another option is to use low-growing herbs such as thyme or chamomile. These plants can form a dense mat that can withstand foot traffic and release a pleasant fragrance when stepped on. Additionally, moss can also be used as a ground cover option in shady areas with high traffic. Moss is a low-maintenance option that can tolerate foot traffic and can add a lush green carpet to the ground. Ultimately, the best ground cover option will depend on the specific conditions of the area and the desired aesthetic.
Are there any specific maintenance practices that can help improve the performance of grass in shady and high-traffic areas?
Yes, there are specific maintenance practices that can improve the performance of grass in shady and high-traffic areas. In shady areas, it is important to select grass species that are shade-tolerant, such as fine fescues or certain types of ryegrass. Additionally, pruning back overhanging trees or shrubs can help increase the amount of sunlight that reaches the grass.
For high-traffic areas, it is important to select grass species that are wear-tolerant, such as Kentucky bluegrass or turf-type tall fescue. Aeration can also help to alleviate soil compaction and improve the movement of air, water, and nutrients to the grass roots. Regular fertilization and watering can also help to maintain healthy grass growth and recovery from wear and tear.
Other maintenance practices that can help improve grass performance in both shady and high-traffic areas include regular mowing at the appropriate height, controlling weeds, and addressing any pest or disease issues promptly. By implementing these practices, you can help ensure that your grass remains healthy and beautiful in even the most challenging growing conditions.
Can any grass varieties thrive in areas with both shade and high traffic?
Yes, there are some grass varieties that can thrive in areas with both shade and high traffic. One such example is the Fine Fescue grass family, which includes varieties such as creeping red fescue, chewings fescue, and hard fescue. These grasses are known for their ability to grow well in shaded areas, and they are also quite durable, making them suitable for high traffic areas.
Another option is the Kentucky bluegrass, which is a popular choice for lawns in North America. This grass variety can tolerate moderate shade and is also quite resilient, making it suitable for high traffic areas. However, it may require more frequent watering and fertilization to maintain its health in shaded areas.
When selecting a grass variety for a shaded and high traffic area, it's important to consider factors such as soil type, climate, and maintenance requirements. Consulting with a lawn care professional can also be helpful in determining the best grass variety for your specific needs.
How can I ensure that my lawn stays healthy and green in areas with both shade and high traffic?
Ensuring that your lawn stays healthy and green in areas with both shade and high traffic can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Here are some tips to help you achieve a lush, green lawn:
1. Choose the right grass: Selecting a type of grass that can grow in both shade and sunlight is crucial. Some good options are tall fescue, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass.
2. Aerate the soil: Compacted soil can prevent water, nutrients, and air from reaching the roots of your grass. Aerating the soil will help to loosen it, allowing your grass to grow more robustly.
3. Fertilize regularly: Fertilizing your lawn every six to eight weeks will provide it with the necessary nutrients it needs to grow healthy.
4. Water deeply and infrequently: Watering your lawn deeply and infrequently allows the roots to grow deeper, making them more resilient to drought and foot traffic.
5. Mow at the right height: Mowing your lawn too short can damage the grass, especially in shady areas. Keep the height of your mower blade higher to allow your grass to grow longer.
6. Avoid heavy foot traffic: Limiting foot traffic on your lawn can help prevent soil compaction, which can damage your grass. Consider adding a pathway or stepping stones to areas with high traffic.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your lawn stays healthy, green, and beautiful in areas with both shade and high traffic.
How does the amount of shade affect the growth and health of different types of grass?
The amount of shade can significantly affect the growth and health of different types of grass. Most grasses require a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. When grasses receive less sunlight due to shade, their growth rate slows down, and they become thin and spindly. This is because the grass is not getting enough sunlight to photosynthesize and produce the energy it needs to grow.
Different types of grasses have varying levels of tolerance to shade. For instance, some cool-season grasses like fine fescue and creeping bentgrass have high shade tolerance and can still grow and remain healthy in partial shade. In contrast, warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass require more direct sunlight and may struggle in shaded areas.
When planting grass in a shaded area, it is essential to choose a variety that is suitable for the level of shade present. Additionally, regular mowing, proper watering, and fertilization can help improve the health and growth of grass in shaded areas.
Is it possible to find grass varieties that are both durable and shade-tolerant?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to find grass varieties that are both durable and shade-tolerant. In fact, many grass species have been specifically bred and developed to thrive in shady areas while still maintaining their durability and hardiness. Some popular options for shade-tolerant grass include fine fescue, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass. These grasses have adapted to grow in areas with limited sunlight and are often more resilient to disease and pests than other varieties. Additionally, there are many other factors to consider when choosing a grass type, such as soil type, climate, and maintenance requirements. It is always recommended to consult with a professional landscaper or horticulturist to determine the best grass variety for your specific needs and conditions.
What are some of the most shade-tolerant grasses that can withstand heavy foot traffic?
When it comes to selecting shade-tolerant grasses that can withstand heavy foot traffic, there are a few options to consider. One of the most popular options is fine fescue, which is a group of grasses that includes creeping red fescue, chewings fescue, and hard fescue. Fine fescues are known for their shade tolerance and ability to withstand foot traffic. Another option is perennial ryegrass, which is known for its durability and ability to recover quickly from wear and tear. Additionally, Kentucky bluegrass is a common choice for heavy foot traffic areas, but it requires more sunlight than the other two options. It is important to note that even shade-tolerant grasses will still require some sunlight to thrive, so it is important to carefully assess the amount of shade and sunlight the area receives before selecting a grass type.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing the best grass for shade and high traffic?
When choosing the best grass for areas with shade and high traffic, there are several key factors that you should consider. First, it is important to select a grass variety that is shade-tolerant, such as fine fescue or turf-type tall fescue. These varieties have the ability to grow in lower light conditions and will thrive in shaded areas.
Secondly, it is important to choose a grass that is durable and can handle high traffic. Some varieties that are known for their durability include Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass.
Another factor to consider is the climate in your area. Different grass varieties have specific climate requirements, so it is important to choose a grass that can thrive in your specific region.
Lastly, it is important to consider maintenance requirements such as watering, mowing, and fertilization. Some grass varieties require more maintenance than others, so it is important to choose a grass that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
Overall, when choosing the best grass for areas with shade and high traffic, it is important to consider shade tolerance, durability, climate requirements, and maintenance preferences.
What are the pros and cons of using different grass species in areas with shade and heavy foot traffic?
Choosing the right grass species for areas with shade and heavy foot traffic can have a significant impact on the overall health and appearance of your lawn. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of using different grass species in such areas.
Pros of using shade-tolerant grasses:
1. They can thrive in areas with limited sunlight.
2. They require less water and fertilizer than other grass species.
3. They can provide a lush, green appearance even in shady areas.
Cons of using shade-tolerant grasses:
1. They may not be as durable as other grass species, making them more susceptible to damage from foot traffic.
2. They may not perform well in areas with extreme heat and drought.
3. They may require more maintenance, such as regular mowing and trimming.
Pros of using grasses with high foot traffic tolerance:
1. They can withstand heavy use without becoming damaged or worn down.
2. They can provide a dense, lush appearance even in high traffic areas.
3. They require less maintenance than other grass species.
Cons of using grasses with high foot traffic tolerance:
1. They may not perform well in areas with limited sunlight.
2. They may require more water and fertilizer than other grass species.
3. They may not be as visually appealing as other grass species.
In conclusion, choosing the right grass species for areas with shade and heavy foot traffic requires careful consideration of the pros and cons of each option. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on the specific needs of your lawn and the amount of maintenance you are willing to provide.
What is the best type of grass for areas with heavy shade and high foot traffic?
When it comes to selecting the best type of grass for areas with heavy shade and high foot traffic, there are a few factors to consider. The first thing to bear in mind is that most grasses require a certain amount of sunlight to thrive, so you'll need to choose a variety that is shade-tolerant. Some of the best options in this category include fine fescue, tall fescue, and creeping red fescue. These grasses are known for their ability to grow well in shaded areas and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
Another thing to consider is the quality of the soil in the area where you plan to plant the grass. If the soil is compacted or lacking in nutrients, it may be difficult for grass to grow successfully. In this case, you may want to consider planting a grass seed blend that includes a mix of shade-tolerant grasses and other plants that can help improve the soil quality.
In summary, when looking for the best type of grass for areas with heavy shade and high foot traffic, it's important to choose a variety that is shade-tolerant, durable, and well-suited to the soil conditions in the area.
