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Best Grass for Seattle: Colonial Bentgrass

A Seattle homeowner (Zone 8) asks about ryegrass, fescue, bluegrass mowing frequency and drought tolerance.

Climate Reality Check

Seattle's issue isn't drought — it's excess moisture (82% January humidity). Fungal diseases are the real challenge. "Underwatered summer" doesn't exist here.

Top Recommendation: Colonial Bentgrass

Thrives in Seattle's cool, moist climate WITHOUT intensive management
Velvety, dense, fine-textured — "Rolls-Royce of grasses"
'Alister' cultivar (Seedland.com): superior winter color, leaf spot & take-all patch resistance, low maintenance

Mowing Requirement

Push mower essential. Height: ¼-¾ inch (first cut at 1 inch). Freeze seed 1 week for faster germination.

Soil Test Imperative

WSU soil testing (puyallup.wsu.edu/soilmgmt/SoilTesting.htm). Analogy: You wouldn't bake a cake without checking ingredients — don't guess soil needs.

Long-Term Benefit

Known soil test = precise inputs = no wasted money, no fertilizer pollution, perfect lawn with minimal work. Your son just mows.

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