Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 carbon fixation pathway
Grass Family
Poaceae, Subfamily Pooideae, Tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Golf Course Fairways
Variety / Cultivar
Likely a blend of 'Midnight' or 'Baron' type cultivars based on deep green color and density
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; excellent cold hardiness; susceptible to heat stress in southern climates (Zones 8 and above); enters winter dormancy.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing turf with a rich, dark-blue to emerald-green color. It creates a smooth, carpet-like surface with a soft texture. It goes dormant (brown) in high heat/drought or extreme cold.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm); V-shaped or folded; distinctive boat-shaped (keeled) tip; smooth texture with a split midrib; vernation is folded in the bud; ligule is short and membranous; auricles are absent.
Root System
Moderately deep fibrous root system complemented by extensive rhizomes. Forms heavy thatch if over-fertilized; offers excellent sod strength and recovery from wear.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, North Asia, and the mountains of Morocco/Algeria; widely naturalized in North America and temperate climates
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading via underground runners), capable of forming a tight, regenerative sod and filling in bare spots
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun preferred (6+ hours); moderate shade tolerance; requires consistent moisture and is subject to dormancy during extended dry periods; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 2.0-3.5 inches; mow weekly; requires 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft per year; high maintenance level requiring periodic aeration and dethatching.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional recuperative potential due to rhizomes; high wear tolerance; susceptible to Leaf Spot, Melting Out, and Summer Patch; excellent winter color retention in cool zones.
Ecological Information
Introduced and naturalized in North America; provides forage for livestock and wildlife (deer, rabbits); used extensively for soil erosion control on slopes; often blended with Perennial Ryegrass or Fine Fescue.