Sod

[rondvu]

I am about to bite the bullet and have my yard sodded. It is semi-shade and the Bermuda is dying out. I have heard about Buffalo grass and others that are low maintenance. I would not be apposed to something such as Buffalo grass, but I think the shade issue will not allow the water friendly grass to be an option. Any suggestions on a company to buy and have the sod laid. I have called around and the prices seem to be all over the place. At this point I am sure it will be Fescue or Zoysia. I am open to all ideas since I am not a lawn grass expert.

[Skyline]

Why not overseed with Fescue?

A few big bags of fescue seed and your set. Much cheaper than buying sod. Cover your yard with seed so heavy your yard will look like it has snowed. Water it in and in about 2 weeks your will see new fescue grass emerging.

[Brett]

Buffalograss actually has better drought resistance and shade tolerance than Bermudagrass but Buffalograss is very sensitive to herbicides. Buffalograss is normally established by using plugs. I wouldn't completely rule out Buffalograss as an option. Zoysia is normally established by sod. I would avoid trying to establish Zoysia from seed (Zenith Zoysia commonly found at Lowes) because it takes at least 2 years for Zoysia to become fully established. Zoysia will also keep its color during winter. If you are considering Fescue be sure to select a Turf-Type Tall Fescue variety. Some new cultivars of Tall Fescue are rhizomatous which means that they are able to spread and fill in bare spots but most Tall Fescue only grows where its planted. Remember that Tall Fescue is a cool season grass which means it looks great during the spring and fall but suffers a bit during the heat of the summer. Tall Fescue is most commonly seeded which will save money compared to sodding. Sodding is the most expensive establishment option so if you do it make sure you do it right the first time. Easton Sod initially comes to mind but I'm sure there are other sod companies that are out there that also do a great job.