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Both zoysia grass and bermuda grass are somewhat similar to St. Augustine because they’re all warm-season grasses. Beyond that, most grass types have unique properties that set them apart. Zoysia grass costs twice the price of St. Augustine grass on average and it has thinner blades and a deeper green appearance. Bermuda grass, compared to St. Augustine, has much thinner blades, is softer to the touch, and has a higher tolerance for colder weather.

Whether or not grass will fill in bare spots itself depends on the type of grass you have. For example, grass with rhizomes (e.g., Bermuda grass) and stolons (e.g., Saint Augustine grass) will naturally fill in bald spots as it spreads laterally. However, clump-forming grasses will not spread. 

The best time to plant grass seed depends on your local climate and whether you have cool-season or warm-season grass.

For cool-season grasses (like tall fescue), the ideal time to seed is late summer or early fall (typically August and September). During this period, the soil is still warm from the summer, but the air is cooler, creating optimal conditions for germination and root establishment before winter. There is also less competition from weeds. Spring is a secondary option, but cooler soil temperatures, the risk of a late frost, and less time for the grass to mature before summer heat can make it less successful.

For warm-season grasses (like St. Augustine), the best time to plant is from late spring through mid-summer (typically May and June), when temperatures are consistently between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

In general, it is best to avoid seeding during winter or early spring, as cold soil and air can prevent seeds from germinating. For recommendations tailored to your specific grass type and climate, consider consulting a local lawn care professional.

Those who live in between zones may have summers too warm for many cool-season grasses and winters too cold for warm-season grasses. Grasses selected for these climates must be well adapted to both conditions, so opt for tall fescue if your area is more prone to very cold temperatures or kikuyu grass if your home has notably hot summers.