Is there any way to get grass to grow in the shade? (Partial shade)?

Question

I have planted grass seeds with new composted soil and it is coming up in places but not others. I water everyday. I have fertilized. I talk nice to it. I am at my wits end. I have considered writing to Tommy Chong (Cheech and Chong fame)as I hear he knows a bit about grass. (kidding) Any ideas? Thanks for the help!!!

Answer 1

Hey, there are tons of varieties of grass that can be grown for shady areas. It is best to select a type that is most suited to shady conditions, and include some Rye grass mix if you expect this patch to get hard wear and tear - eg. if it's going to be walked on alot. You don't mention how long it's been sown for, and a couple of weeks is typical for late spring germination. You may need to re-sow the bare areas or over-sow the other areas, so that you get a more complete coverage and blended grass varieties. The shady grass seed types tend to be finer Fescue grasses, with some smaller Rye grasses.

I'm not sure whereabouts you live, as there are also different mixes using in different parts of the US and other countries. You may need to rework some of the lawn that you've done, and add some new seed, specifically for shady areas. Otherwise, grass will germinate in the dark, it doesn't need sun to start to sprout, as long as temperatures and humidity are right.

I'd suggest a trip to a local garden center and discuss your grass patch needs with someone there. Otherwise, you can buy seed online. Here's a site with a sun/shade mix for $6.99, though a shade-only mix would be better.
http://doitbest.com/Grass+seed-Barenbrug+USA-model-71100-doitbest-sku-740594.dib

Otherwise:http://www.seedland.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=Seedland&Category_Code=DENSE2 5llbs of Creeping Red Fescue Seed for $12.95.

You seem to have otherwise done the right things, ref. watering and ultimately fertilizing it as it grows. Daily watering is important for new lawns, to prevent the emerging roots from drying out and dieing.

You might benefit from a light cover over the soil, such as garden fleece or even some light plastic. This would prevent drying out and also stop birds etc. from eating the seeds and shoots. Otherwise, was there anything ever on the soil that could have been toxic? This could be having an affect on the seed growth.

Good luck!!