Best Grass Types for Western Washington Yards

Western Washington’s mild, wet climate makes it an ideal region for cool-season grasses. If you’re looking to achieve a lush, resilient lawn, choosing the right grass type is essential.

Here are some of the top picks:

1. Perennial Ryegrass—Known for its fast germination and beautiful deep green color, perennial ryegrass is a top choice in the Pacific Northwest. It tolerates heavy foot traffic and recovers quickly, making it ideal for families.

2. Fine Fescue—A mix of creeping red, chewings, and hard fescues, fine fescue thrives in shady areas and requires less maintenance than other grasses. It’s also drought—tolerant once established.

3. Kentucky Bluegrass—Though it prefers full sun, Kentucky bluegrass forms a dense, carpet-like lawn that fills in quickly. It blends well with ryegrass and fescues for a balanced seed mix.

4. Tall Fescue—With deeper roots than other cool—season grasses, tall fescue tolerates heat and drought better, making it suitable for transitional areas or slopes.

When selecting grass seed, opt for blends designed specifically for the Pacific Northwest. Be sure to prep your soil, fertilize appropriately, and consider overseeding in the fall or spring for best results.

Sources:

Washington State University Extension

Oregon State University Lawn Guide

Pennington Seed Regional Grass Recommendations