The answer to this question is impossible without a specific site location. Some of the questions to be addressed are: location, soil type, amount of sunlight on turf area, normal moisture level available, and how the space is used (i.e., playground, animal pen, occasional foot traffic). Most importantly, is the turf irrigated and to what degree of maintenance are you willing to commit? Consult your local Extension office for turf selection where you live.

Cool-season grasses are the most common choice for most Midwestern lawns. Overall, tall fescues require the least attention and are most adaptable to local soils. The turf-type tall fescues have been developed for smaller leaf blades and are attractive. Resistance to disease and insects are found in fescues, plus they are adaptable to both sun and shade. It is a good idea to use blends of at least three different turf tall fescue varieties to increase disease resistance. Another common recommendation to increase turf density is to mix about 10 percent bluegrass with the mixture. Bluegrass produces rhizomes that fill in some weak areas. Most reputable lawn and garden centers offer blends and mixtures for your specific lawn situation. For permanent establishment, avoid mixtures that contain annual or perennial ryegrass.