Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, Subfamily Pooideae, Tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Generic / Blend (Likely a mix including common cultivars like Midnight or Baron)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; excellent cold tolerance; enters winter dormancy; struggles in the humid South/Heat Zone 8+.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing turf grass with a distinct dark blue-green color. It maintains a soft texture and lush appearance when well-maintained, reaching 18-24 inches if left unmowed with a panicle-type seed head.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm); V-shaped or flat; boat-shaped (keeled) tip; dark green to blue-green; folded vernation; short membranous ligule; auricles absent; smooth collar
Root System
Moderately deep fibrous root system complemented by extensive rhizomes. Forms significant thatch; medium establishment speed from seed but excellent sod-forming ability.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe, Northern Asia, and North Africa; widely adapted to temperate climates
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading underground) and bunching; forms a thick, carpet-like dense sod
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred (6+ hours); moderate shade tolerance; requires consistent moisture (1 inch per week); moderate drought tolerance but tends to go dormant in extreme heat.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 2.0-3.0 inches; weekly frequency; 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually; requires occasional dethatching and core aeration; High maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance and recovery due to rhizomes; highly susceptible to summer patch and necrotic ring spot; superior winter color compared to other cool-season grasses.
Ecological Information
Introduced and naturalized in North America; provides forage for grazing animals and cover for small birds; highly effective for erosion control; commonly blended with Perennial Ryegrass or Fine Fescue.