Best Native Grass for Your US Lawn: Choosing the Right Type

Replacing your typical US lawn turf grass with native grasses can provide numerous benefits, such as reduced maintenance, improved local biodiversity, and better resilience to local climate conditions. However, the best native grass for your lawn will depend on your USDA Hardiness Zone, growth habit, texture, and specific site conditions. This article explores the best native grass options for different regions and provides guidelines to help you choose the perfect lawn grass for your needs.

What Factors Determine the Best Native Grass?

The choice of native grass for your lawn is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Various factors influence your selection:

USDA Hardiness Zone: Different regions in the US have unique climate conditions. For example, grasses that thrive in South Florida may not survive in the Upper Midwest. Understanding your Hardiness Zone is crucial to selecting the right native grass species. Growth Habit: Some grasses are more compact, while others grow tall. Compact grasses are ideal for areas with limited space, whereas taller grasses can create an attractive landscape feature. Texture (Feel): Consider the texture of the grass. Some, like Buffalo Grass (Bouteloua dactyloides), can be walked on without shoes and requires minimal wear and tear. Others, such as Panicum virgatum Shenandoah, may require more care. Light Requirements: Different grasses thrive in different light conditions. Some prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

Top Native Grass Options for the US Lawn

Several native grass species are well-suited for US lawns. Let's explore some of the best options:

Buffalo Grass (Bouteloua dactyloides)

Buffalo Grass is a warm-season grass that is native to much of the western United States. It is known for its drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements, making it a popular choice for lawns in regions where frequent watering is not practical.

Pros:

Deep roots that help reduce water usage Low maintenance once established Greens up well in full sun Native to many areas

Cons:

Not suitable for areas with high foot traffic without shoes Poor performance in heavy shade

Buffalograss and Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem, and Indiangrass

Buffalograss, along with Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem, and Indiangrass, are part of the legendary grasses of the Tall Grass Prairie. These prairie grasses are native and often reintroduced for landscaping purposes.

Panicum virgatum Shenandoah:

Panicum virgatum Shenandoah is a reintroduced native grass that excels in zones 5 to 10. It is known for its burgundy plumes and grows to about 4 feet high. This grass is a practical choice for those looking for a vibrant and low-maintenance lawn.

Short Native Grasses:

Short native grasses, such as Prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), grow to a height of 8 to 12 inches. They are excellent for areas with less space and require minimal maintenance once established. Prairie dropseed is an ideal choice for parkways and partial sun exposures.

Region-Specific Selections

To find the perfect native grass for your lawn, it's essential to consider your Hardiness Zone and specific regional conditions. Many websites offer regional selections that can help you make an informed decision. For example, checking out local resources, such as websites or regional gardening guides, can provide you with the best options for your area.

Considerations for Lawn Renovation

Renewing your lawn with native grasses can be a challenging but rewarding process. If you have a naturalized area in your landscape, native grasses can work well, but they may not be suitable for heavily mowed areas. Some native grasses, like Buffalo Grass, are bunch grasses that need to sit atop the ground, making frequent mowing impractical.

Carefully consider the growth habit and texture of the grass species you choose. If your existing lawn has been damaged by chickens, as in the case of the author, you may find yourself with a milkweed patch. However, introducing diversity can help enrich your landscape, so mix in different native grasses to create a more attractive and functional lawn.

Conclusion

The best native grass for your US lawn depends on several factors, including your USDA Hardiness Zone, growth habit, and specific site conditions. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right native grass to improve the look and functionality of your lawn while supporting local biodiversity. Always consult regional resources to ensure the native grass species you select is well-suited to your local climate.