Zoysia japonica and Zoysia matrella are the most shade-tolerant varieties. Aerate and improve soil drainage, then be patient. Zoysia grass can take months to fully establish in shady areas.

grass types that thrive in shade include Ryegrass and Fine and Tall fescues, while warm-season grasses include Zoysiagrass and St. Augustine grass. “Grasses such as Fescue and Zoysia can grow ...