As winter begins to blanket landscapes in a frosty embrace, the stark contrast between green and brown lawns becomes prominent in many neighborhoods.
While some lawns retain their vibrant green hues throughout the colder months, others succumb to a more muted, brown appearance.
The reasons behind these divergent winter palettes are rooted in a combination of factors, including grass type, climate, and specific lawn care practices.
In this exploration, we’ll unravel the mysteries behind why some lawns stay green while others turn brown during winter. If you are still left unsure of what to do, you can get a free quote for lawn service to take your lawn to a whole new level of green!
Having a green lawn all year round might seem impossible in some climates, but it can be achieved by planting the right grass variety. Certain cool season grasses actually thrive during winter, while warm season grasses go dormant. This guide will explore the best grasses for winter green color, tips for planting and care, and how to keep your lawn lush even when temperatures drop.
Why Does Grass Turn Brown in Winter?
Most lawns turn brown or straw-colored during winter because the grass goes dormant. Growth slows down dramatically, and the grass essentially hibernates to conserve energy. Warm season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia and St. Augustine are especially prone to dormancy when temperatures go below 50°F. Even cool season grasses can struggle with icy conditions, but some varieties handle winter better than others.
Cool Season Grasses That Stay Green
Cool season grasses grow best in fall, winter and spring They go dormant in peak summer heat, but rebound nicely when temperatures cool. The following are excellent choices for winter green color
Kentucky Bluegrass
- Popular in northern and transition zone climates
- Withstands cold better than other grasses
- Grows actively in fall and spring
- Slows growth in summer to conserve energy
- Rich green color all winter long
Tall Fescue
- Thrives even in frigid winters and hot summers
- Maintains green color winter through summer
- Low maintenance compared to other grasses
- Tolerates sun or shade
- Mow at 2-3” in winter, 3.5” in summer
Perennial Ryegrass
- Fast germination in fall and spring
- Popular for overseeding warm season grasses
- Improved varieties better withstand heat/drought
- Forms lush green lawn for winter
Fine Fescue
- Finer blades than tall fescue
- Tolerant of cold, shade and drought
- Common in northern lawns
- Stays green with moderate fertilization
Warm Season Grasses for Winter
Warm season grasses enter dormancy when temperatures drop in winter, but some varieties handle cold better than others If winters are short and mild, the following may retain some winter green
Zoysia
- Higher cold tolerance than other warm season grasses
- Stays greener in moderate winter climates
- Avoid too much thatch buildup
- Give full sun and weekly watering
Bermuda
- Very cold sensitive, best for southern regions
- Proper watering prevents dormancy
- Use cold tolerant hybrids where possible
- Full sun and irrigation are musts
St. Augustine
- Very frost intolerant
- Only for warmest regions like Florida
- Don’t fertilize late or mow low before winter
- Use cold tolerant cultivars
Tips for Planting Winter Grass
Proper timing is crucial when planting grass for winter color. Follow these tips:
- Conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels
- Prepare soil by removing debris and raking smooth
- For cool season grasses, plant in early fall
- For warm season grasses, plant in spring after final frost
- Use spreader to apply seed per package directions
- Cover seeds lightly with 1⁄4” layer of soil
- Water gently daily until germination
Caring for Winter Grass
Once established, winter grass still requires proper care for optimal health:
- Continue mowing, but never cut more than 1/3 of blade height
- Fertilize in early fall and spring, avoid late fall fertilizing
- Adjust watering for rainfall and temperature fluctuations
- Watch for pest and disease issues and treat as needed
- Dethatch warm season grasses to prevent buildup
With the right grass type and proper care, it’s possible to maintain a green lawn even throughout the winter. Just be sure to choose varieties suited to your specific climate. Aim for cool season grasses in cold regions and select cold hardy warm season varieties for warmer areas. With a little effort, your lawn can stay lush and vibrant no matter the season!
Grass Type Matters
The choice of grass type is a primary determinant of a lawn’s winter color. Cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass, maintain their green color more effectively in colder temperatures.
These grasses are adapted to thrive in cooler climates and can photosynthesize even during winter, keeping their foliage green.
Understanding the predominant grass type in a lawn is the first step in deciphering its winter color palette.
Lawn Care Practices
Lawn care practices leading up to winter play a crucial role in determining the winter color of a lawn.
Proper fertilization in the fall provides cool-season grasses with essential nutrients for winter resilience. Lawns that are well-nourished are more likely to retain their green color.
One of the best things you can do is enroll in a full lawn care program and at least one aeration a year to ensure your lawn is getting all the nutrients it needs.
Additionally, mowing practices can influence the winter appearance. Leaving grass slightly longer before winter sets in helps insulate the roots and retains more green foliage. You can view our mowing guide for more information on grass height and mower maintenance.
The Secret to a Deep Green Winter Lawn (In 5 Minutes)
FAQ
What grass stays green through winter?
Cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass, maintain their green color more effectively in colder temperatures. These grasses are adapted to thrive in cooler climates and can photosynthesize even during winter, keeping their foliage green.
What ornamental grass stays green in winter?
Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’ (Japanese Sedge)
Highly valued for its striking appearance, this ornamental grass adds a touch of beauty and contrast to any garden setting. ‘Evergold’ remains evergreen across most of its growing range, ensuring year-round visual appeal.
What grass doesn’t turn brown in winter?
Tall Fescue – It’s the best option for those in the transition zone who want green turf in the wintertime when warm-season grasses go dormant and turn brown.
Are there any evergreen ornamental grasses?
Yes, there are several evergreen ornamental grasses that maintain their foliage throughout the year, adding year-round interest to gardens.
What types of grass grow well in the cold season?
The following are the best types of grasses that grow and do well in the cold season; Bluegrass has been popular in America since colonial times. It is speculated that the species was first introduced into the country by the Europeans. After years of research and mix-breeding, Kentucky Bluegrass was born.
Does grass stay green all year?
The most important element to having grass that stays green all year is making sure to plant the right grass in the right location. So, let’s take a look and see what grasses stay green in cold climates, which varieties are better suited for warm climates, and alternatives for areas with extreme weather fluctuations.
Does tall fescue stay green in winter?
If you want a traditional grass type that stays green in winter, then look no further than Tall Fescue. Commonly grown in the transition zones and northern states, Tall Fescue is well liked for its ability to survive both winter and summer temperatures. This is one of the most diverse types of grass varieties available.
Can grass grow in the Cold?
Grow these frost-tolerant, cool-season grass varieties to spruce up your fall and winter landscape. While some are stunning, tall ornamentals, and some boost native biodiversity, nearly all these plants use far fewer resources than traditional lawns and thrive in the cold!
Which Japanese forest grass is best for Fall & Winter?
For your fall and winter garden, check out varieties like ‘Benikaze,’ which turns a bright red in the fall, or the yellow-striped ‘All Gold’ and the chartreuse ‘Aureola.’ 3. Golden Japanese Forest Grass Botanical Name: Hakonechloa macra ‘Alboaurea’ USDA zones: 4-9
Can You Keep Your grass green year-round?
Keeping your grass green year-round really depends on where you live. For example, if you live in Florida, where the weather doesn’t vary too drastically throughout the year, you can plant one type of grass, and it will likely thrive all year long.