Landscaping design is no joke – we want our garden to be lush, well-cared for, and above all, survive any season. But, achieving that is quite tricky; the climate in some areas of the Durham region can turn a full 180º and mess up the grass health in our lawns, front yards, back yards, etc.
Fortunately, if you understand the best grass types that work with Oshawa’s weather, seasons, and vegetation, you can have an – almost – self-sufficient grass that endures the area’s changes.
Some grass types are low maintenance and need less grass cutting, while some need a little extra care, but are resilient throughout the year. Let’s better explore the best grass types for the Oshawa, Durham region.
Here are the best grass types in Oshawa, Ontario:
Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis)
Renowned for its rich green color and fine texture, Kentucky Bluegrass establishes deep roots, enhancing drought resistance. It’s well-suited to Oshawa’s climate and is a popular choice for lawns in Ontario.
Perennial Ryegrass (Lolium perenne)
Perennial Ryegrass germinates quickly, providing rapid ground cover. It’s often used in blends with Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescues to enhance lawn resilience and appearance.
Fine Fescues (Festuca spp.)
This group includes Creeping Red Fescue, Chewings Fescue, Hard Fescue, and Sheep Fescue. Fine Fescues are shade-tolerant and require less maintenance, making them suitable for lawns with varying light conditions.
Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea)
Tall Fescue is known for its drought tolerance and ability to withstand high traffic, making it a durable option for lawns that receive frequent use.
Perennial Ryegrass
Perennial Ryegrass is valued for its rapid germination and establishment, which contribute to a lush lawn. It’s often combined with Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescues to enhance overall lawn quality.
How to take care of grass in Oshawa, Ontario?
First, let’s keep in mind that landscaping in Oshawa goes through cold winters and warm, humid summers. So, that makes cool-season grasses deal better with the climate of this Ontario region. Either way, regular care is needed for all grass types. Let’s see some more details on that:
Watering
- How often? Water once or twice a week, giving your lawn about 1 to 1.5 inches of water.
- Best time to water? Early morning (between 6 AM – 10 AM) to prevent evaporation and fungal diseases.
- Deep watering is key! Watering deeply encourages strong roots, making your lawn more drought-resistant.
Fertilization
- Spring (April-May): Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer to help the grass green up after winter.
- Summer (June-July): Apply a lighter feeding if needed, but avoid over-fertilizing in extreme heat.
- Fall (September-October): Use a fall fertilizer (higher in potassium) to strengthen roots for winter.
Mowing
- How often? Mow once a week during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Best mowing height? Keep your grass at 3 inches to protect roots from heat and prevent weed growth.
- Never cut too short! Avoid cutting more than ⅓ of the blade’s height at once.
Aeration
- Aeration (September-October): Helps water, air, and nutrients reach the roots, especially if your soil is compacted.
- Dethatching (Spring or Fall): Remove built-up dead grass and debris to allow new growth.
Preparing for winter
- Final mow: Cut the grass slightly shorter (2.5 inches) before winter to prevent mold.
- Clear debris: Leaves and other debris can cause disease, so keep your lawn clean.
Quick note: the climate in Oshawa is similar to many other areas in the Durham region. So, these grass care tips also apply to landscaping in Pickering, Whitby, and surrounding regions.
What is the most low-maintenance grass type?
The most low-maintenance grass for Oshawa is Fine Fescue, especially Creeping Red Fescue. It requires less mowing, watering, and fertilizing compared to other grass types.
Why is Fine Fescue Low-Maintenance?
- Need less watering: Needs less watering, great for dry periods.
- Grows almost anywhere: Grows well in both sun and shade.
- Slow-Growing: Requires less mowing than Kentucky Bluegrass.
- Low Fertilizer Needs: Stays green without heavy feeding.
If you want a low-maintenance lawn, choose a Fine Fescue mix or blend it with Kentucky Bluegrass for a balance of durability and easy care.
When to plant grass seed in Ontario?
The best time to plant grass seed in Ontario is early fall (late August to October) or early spring (April to May).
Why Fall is the Best Time?
- Cool temperatures help seeds germinate without extreme heat.
- More rain means less need for watering.
- Stronger root development before winter helps the grass survive.
Spring Planting (April-May)
- Works well, but weed competition is higher.
- Requires consistent watering as summer heat approaches.
For best results, plant in the fall and keep the soil moist until the grass is fully established!
FAQ on Grass Types
What type of grass grows best in Oshawa, Ontario?
Oshawa has cold winters and warm summers, so cool-season grasses are the best choice. The most popular options are Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Fine Fescues, and Tall Fescue because they handle temperature changes well and stay green most of the year.
What is the easiest grass to grow in Oshawa?
Perennial Ryegrass grows the fastest and is easy to establish, but it works best when mixed with other grasses. Fine Fescues require less maintenance and grow well in shaded areas, making them a great choice for low-effort lawns.
What is the most durable grass for high-traffic areas?
Tall Fescue is the best option for durability. It has deep roots, making it more resistant to wear and drought. Kentucky Bluegrass is also strong but takes longer to establish.
Which grass is best for shady areas?
Fine Fescues, especially Creeping Red Fescue, grow well in the shade. If you have a lot of trees or buildings blocking the sun, these are your best options.
When is the best time to plant grass in Oshawa?
The best time to plant grass is early fall (late August to October) or early spring (April to May). These seasons provide the right temperature and moisture for seeds to grow properly.
How often should I water my lawn?
Grass in Oshawa typically needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, either from rain or irrigation. It’s best to water deeply once or twice a week instead of lightly every day.
Do I need to fertilize my grass?
Yes, fertilizing helps keep your lawn green and healthy. Apply fertilizer in early spring, late summer, and fall. Use a balanced fertilizer that suits the type of grass you have.
Can I mix different grass types for a better lawn?
Yes! Most lawns in Oshawa use a mix of Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, and Fine Fescues to get the best combination of durability, fast growth, and shade tolerance.
How do I keep my lawn green during the summer?
Water deeply but not too often, mow at a higher setting (about 3 inches), and avoid cutting more than ⅓ of the grass height at once. Using a slow-release fertilizer in early summer also helps maintain color.
Where can I buy the best grass seed for Oshawa?
You can find quality grass seed at local garden centers, hardware stores, or online. Look for brands that mention “cool-season mix” or “Ontario-friendly” on the label.
What’s the best way to fix patchy or bare spots in my lawn?
Rake the area to remove dead grass, spread fresh seed, cover lightly with soil, and keep it moist until new grass appears. Using a mix with Perennial Ryegrass helps fill in spots quickly.
Is sod better than planting grass seed?
Sod gives you an instant lawn, but it’s more expensive. Grass seed is cheaper and allows for better root growth, but it takes longer to establish. If you need quick results, sod is a good option.
How can I prevent weeds from taking over my lawn?
Keep your grass thick and healthy by mowing regularly, watering deeply, and fertilizing properly. A strong lawn naturally prevents weeds from growing. You can also use a weed preventer (pre-emergent herbicide) in early spring.
Do I need to aerate my lawn?
Yes, aerating helps air, water, and nutrients reach the roots. It’s best to aerate once a year in the fall if your soil is compacted.
Ready to refresh your lawn this year? Contact WJB Landscaping today for a free assessment and expert landscaping services in Ajax, Oshawa, Whitby, Pickering, and more. Whether you need a piece of expert advice for the best grass type for you property, sod installation, or regular lawn care services, we’re here to help!
📞 Call Us: 905-925-8847
📧 Email Us: wjb.landscape@gmail.com