Best Grass Types for Colorado's High-Altitude Climate

Choosing the right grass type is crucial for success in Colorado Springs. Our high-altitude, semi-arid climate presents unique challenges that not all grass varieties can handle.

Climate Challenges in Colorado Springs

Elevation Effects (6,000+ feet)

• Intense UV radiation
• Rapid temperature fluctuations
• Shorter growing season
• Lower humidity levels

Weather Patterns

• Cold, dry winters
• Late spring frosts
• Hot, dry summers
• Sudden temperature drops

Top Grass Types for Colorado

1. Tall Fescue - Best overall choice for Colorado lawns

Advantages

• Extremely drought tolerant
• Handles temperature extremes well
• Deep root system (up to 6 feet)
• Excellent wear tolerance
• Disease resistant

Considerations

• Slower to establish
• Can go dormant in extreme heat
• Requires less frequent watering once established

2. Fine Fescue - Ideal for low-maintenance areas

Benefits:

• Thrives in poor soils
• Shade tolerant
• Very drought resistant
• Requires minimal fertilization
• Low mowing requirements

Best uses:

• Slope stabilization
• Areas with limited irrigation
• Under trees and in partial shade

3. Kentucky Bluegrass **Traditional choice with specific requirements**

Pros:

• Beautiful appearance when healthy
• Self-repairing through rhizomes
• Cold hardy
• Dense, lush growth

Cons:

• High water requirements
• Needs regular fertilization
• Susceptible to summer stress
• May go dormant in drought

4. Buffalo Grass - Native Colorado option

Native advantages:

• Extremely drought tolerant
• No irrigation needed once established
• Low maintenance requirements
• Handles temperature extremes

Limitations:

• Slow to establish
• Goes dormant early (brown in fall/winter)
• Not suitable for high-traffic areas
• Limited availability

Grass Mixtures for Best Results

Sun Mix

• 50% Tall Fescue
• 30% Fine Fescue
• 20% Kentucky Bluegrass

Shade Mix

• 60% Fine Fescue
• 40% Tall Fescue

Low-Water Mix

• 70% Tall Fescue
• 30% Buffalo Grass

Seeding Timeline for Colorado

Best Seeding Windows:

• Fall - September 1-15 (ideal)
• Spring - May 1-31 (after last frost)

Avoid seeding:

• Mid-summer (June-August)
• Late fall (after October 1)
• Winter months

Establishment Tips

Site Preparation

1. Remove existing vegetation

2. Test and amend soil pH (target 6.0-7.0)

3. Add organic matter to clay soils

4. Grade for proper drainage

Seeding Best Practices

1. Use recommended seeding rates

2. Rake seed lightly into soil

3. Apply starter fertilizer

4. Keep soil consistently moist

5. Avoid foot traffic until established

Watering Schedule

• First 2 weeks: Light, frequent watering (2-3 times daily)
• Weeks 3-6: Deeper, less frequent watering
• After establishment: Deep, infrequent watering

Maintenance by Grass Type

Tall Fescue

• Mowing height: 2.5-3.5 inches
• Watering: Deep, infrequent
• Fertilization: 2-3 times per year

Fine Fescue

• Mowing height: 2-3 inches
• Watering: Minimal once established
• Fertilization: Once per year, if any

Kentucky Bluegrass

• Mowing height: 2-3 inches
• Watering - Regular, consistent
• Fertilization - 3-4 times per year

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Choosing the wrong variety for your specific conditions

2. Overwatering established drought-tolerant grasses

3. Mowing too short in Colorado's intense sun

4. Planting at the wrong time of year

5. Not preparing soil properly before seeding

Conclusion

Success with grass in Colorado Springs requires choosing varieties that match our unique climate. Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue offer the best combination of drought tolerance and appearance for most situations.

Consider your specific site conditions, maintenance preferences, and water availability when making your choice. When in doubt, consult with local professionals who understand Colorado's growing conditions.