The Best Grass Seed For West Virginia
West Virginia is not just a beautiful place to live and work. It’s also unique. It’s the only state in the country that sits entirely within the Appalachian Mountain region. Because of this, its elevation is higher than other states, which can actually impact the quality of the soil.
Soils in higher elevations experience increased soil moisture, making the ground ideal for growing crops, grass seed, and just about anything else.
However, although West Virginia is nestled in the mountains, its topography ranges between sea level to 5,720 feet on Mount Rogers. Therefore, different grass seeds may thrive better in certain parts of the state than others.
So if you’re looking to reseed your West Virginia property, it’s a good idea to research the types of grass species that can thrive in your area.
West Virginia Grass Seed Growing Conditions and Characteristics
You’ll find a lot of soil variety in West Virginia. The state is known for its shallow, acidic clay soil, which is not ideal for growing crops of any kind, including grasses.
However, the ground in the river floodplains is much more fertile and can make for excellent farmland. West Virginia has one of the highest ratios of small farms in the United States, and West Virginians are known for having green thumbs.
In terms of growing grass seed, the floodplains along the Ohio River, located on the state’s northwestern border, have the best soil. This is also where you’re likely to find Monongahela, which is West Virginia’s official state soil.
Monongahela is formed from loamy sediments deposited on old stream terraces. It’s an excellent type of soil for growing grass quickly. This soil is found in abundance by rivers like the Kanawha, Little Kanawha, Elk, and Monongahela Rivers.
But even if you don’t live in the most fertile areas of West Virginia, there’s still good news: With a bit of research on the proper grass seed for your site, you can find a blend that will thrive. Be sure to look for species that are drought resistant and suitable for full sun and moderate shade.
You can find blends suitable for your area by checking your location’s plant hardiness zone. West Virginia’s plant hardiness zones range between 5a and 7a, with average minimum temperatures between -5℉ and 5℉. Many cool- and warm-season grasses can survive in these conditions.
When to Plant Grass Seed in West Virginia
The best time to plant grass seed in West Virginia is when the weather is still warm but isn’t smoldering hot anymore. It’s a good idea to start in the late summer to early fall, between August and September.
At this point, the soil is still warm, which will help with seed germination and establishment before the cooler temperatures set in.
If you miss this time slot, the second-best time to seed grass is in early to late spring, between March and May. The ground is warming up enough to allow for seed germination, and then the grass will be ready by summer.
Best Types of Lawn Grass Seeds for West Virginia
West Virginia is in the Mid-Atlantic region, which is part of the Transition Zone—a growing region located between the cooler north and warmer south. In the Transition Zone, you can grow cool-season grasses if you live toward the northern part. Warm-season grasses are ideal everywhere else.
Essentially, most of West Virginia can take a variety of grass species, making it one of the most versatile states in the U.S. to grow grass.
Cool-Season Grass Seeds for West Virginia
Fine Fescue
Fine fescue is a cool-season grass that you can plant in the northern parts of West Virginia. It is a soft, quick-establishing grass that can withstand drought and has minimal water requirements.
Fine fescue is also well-known for its long and thin blades, so not only is it an excellent blend for beautification, but it’s also ideal for those who are looking for a species that can help with erosion control or water conservation.
Kentucky Bluegrass
Kentucky bluegrass is a cool-season grass that does exceptionally well in full sun and low temperatures. Its deep, emerald color is unmissable and highly sought after by many property owners in the northern half of West Virginia.
It also has excellent wear tolerance, making it perfect for high-traffic lawns like sports fields or homes with children and pets.
Perennial Ryegrass
Perennial ryegrass can be seeded just about anywhere in the United States. This versatile type of grass has a bright green color and is a favorite among landscapers and property owners for its ability to withstand the full sun and cool weather.
It’s also very tolerant to wear, which is why it’s a top choice for homes with children and pets. Perennial ryegrass does require plenty of water, so a sprinkler system or frequent watering is necessary.
Warm-Season Grass Seeds for West Virginia
Bermudagrass
Bermudagrass is a warm-season grass. It’s a favorite in the South because of its bright green coloring, heat and drought tolerance, and minimal water requirements.
This grass type does best in full sun, making it perfect for sunny lawns throughout the Mountain State. Bermudagrass is also an ideal fit for homeowners looking to beautify their yards with an attractive type of grass.
Zoysia Grass
Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass that’s popular for its heat tolerance, deep forest green coloring, and minimal water requirements. Zoysia is ideal for properties that need an extra pick-me-up and some beautification, but it also is excellent for those looking to conserve water.
It does establish slowly, but the end result of a lush lawn is well worth the wait!
Buffalograss
Buffalograss is one of the most elite and sought-after types because of its rich coloring, minimal water requirements, and the fact that it’s native to the United States, which is ideal for homeowners looking to add native-only species to their properties.
Buffalograss is soft to the touch and is often used to enhance landscaping, making it an excellent choice for those who want that luxurious look, especially in public places or corporate offices.