• Many of the more popular grasses tolerate both full sun and partial shade.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Different factors must be considered when selecting the best kind of sod. The most important is whether its a warm- or cold-season grass and suitable for your area. Another is the sun requirements for the sod. Some types of sod also take hold better than others. Many of the most common grasses grow well from sod, and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade.
  
  

Zoysia

• Zoysia is an adaptable grass that is common in Southern states and can also grow farther north than most other warm-season grasses. Zoysia will thrive in warm-weather climates in shaded areas, but in the north it requires lots of full sun. Often established from sod, zoysia forms a thick, dense turf that is very durable. Its deep roots draw water from the ground, allowing it to tolerate periods of drought. It can withstand high heat and is quick to overtake other grasses in the surrounding area. Often used on golf courses and sports fields in addition to lawns, zoysia turns green in the spring faster than most warm-season grasses.
  
  

Tall Fescue

• Tall fescue is a cool-season grass that thrives in areas with a full sun, but can also form an attractive lawn that is partially shaded. Generally resistant to diseases, tall fescue does not require much care after its sod has been established. It is drought tolerant and can withstand high temperatures. It is a common lawn grass because it has an eye-catching dark green color that lasts through most of summer in cool climates. In warm-weather areas, it has a higher shade tolerance and will remain green for the entire year with the proper amount of water. Tall fescue adapts well to various types of soils. It is a permanent grass with coarse blades and is capable of handling heavy foot traffic.
  
  

Kentucky Bluegrass

• Kentucky bluegrass is one of the most common lawn grasses in the country, according to the Seedland website. It is recommended for all but the most Southern states. It can be planted from both sod and seed, and thrives in areas with full sun and partial shade. It is a durable grass that gives a lawn a pleasing deep green color. It can also repair itself by quickly spreading and filling in bare areas. Another plus is that it blends and mixes well with other grasses, particularly rye grasses. Kentucky bluegrass is among the longest-living perennial grasses. Because of its shallow root systems, watering may be required during periods of drought.