Question
QUESTION: We live in Southern California, Laguna Niguel, about 5 miles to the beach.
We cannot grow grass in our back yard.
We have several Eucalyptus trees and some pine trees and our yard gets very little sunlight.
We have very low traffic in the yard and have a problem with gophers.
What type of grass seed can you suggest for our yard?


ANSWER: Christine:

I suspect that the reasons the grass is not growing is lack of sunlight.

Once you provide more sunlight by pruning or removal, if turf is your goal, you may consider varieties of St. Augustine, a good summer grass that is relatively drought resistant.  Varieties which are cinch bug and SAD resistant are Floratam and Seville.  Raleigh is also more tolerant of shade.

Best wishes.


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank You so much. Can you tell me where I can buy this type of seed from? Internet or stores? Thanks again.

Answer
Christine:

You may be able to find this seed at a good garden center.  Be sure to ask for those varieties or, at least, the equal.  The search may require finding a professional seed supplier serving landscape contractors, since the varieties are not customarily offered.

You may also try an Internet search for "St Augustine grass seed."  This should give you several sources to search for those varieties.

Best.