Do you live in Alabama and want to establish a healthy, magnificent lawn under your shaded yard? Well, you have a few types of sod at your disposal. So, if you’re wondering which is the best sod for shady areas in Alabama, you’re in the right place. Keep reading, as this article covers everything.
The best sod for shaded areas in Alabama is Zoysia, Tall Fescue, and Red Fescue grass varieties. These sods have longer rhizomes and deeper roots than other types, making them ideal for shaded areas. Also, they are shade-tolerant and require a few hours of partial sunlight each day to grow.
Best Sod for Shaded Areas in Alabama (7 Options to Choose From)
A shady area in your yard is a welcome relief for outdoor fun during hot summers. However, this shade may be detrimental for some grass types. Most sod types require at least 8 hours of sunlight each day to grow. Although, some turf types like Zoysia, Tall Fescue, and Red Fescue can thrive well in shaded areas in Alabama.
1. Zoysia Grass
This grass type has rhizomes for spreading and does well in moderate shades. Thanks to its characters, some people now refer to it as ‘shade tolerant zoysia’ instead of Zoysia grass.
The grass survives in shady areas if it gets at least 6 hours of partial sunlight each day. Zoysia will retain its green color and thickness even in shaded areas.
2. Tall Fescue
Tall Fescue grass is so far the foremost grass for shady areas of not just Alabama but across the United States. This cool-season grass is disease-resistant, shade-tolerant, and has deep roots.
The grass thrives in the shade but needs four hours of dappled daily sunlight. This sod is not drought-tolerant but does well in shade and mild temperatures.
3. Red Fescue
The most shade-tolerant grass type is Red Fescue. It is fine-textured, dep-rooted, and has rhizomes that can spread quickly to cover bare spots. It loves shade but requires at least 4 hours of dappled sunlight daily.
Other sod types that can grow in shaded areas but with at least 6 hours of full sunlight include;
4. Bluegrass
5. Ryegrass
6. Centipede
The above grass types are only recommended if your shaded yard allows six hours of full sun daily.
The Verdict of the Best Sod for Shaded Areas in Alabama
The best sod types for shaded areas in Alabama are Zoysia, Tall Fescue, and Red Fescue. They are shade-tolerant but require a few hours of partial sun daily to grow healthy. Bluegrass, Ryegrass, Centipede, and St. Augustine also do well in shades. However, they need at least 6 hours of full sun each day to thrive.
