Grass for Chalk

[stretch]

Sure this is perennial but can somebody recommend a grass mixture for a shady garden on chalk soil. Thanks. Steve.

[JAMES]

It really depends on what you intend to use the established turf for.
Yes, the species will be perennial but providing the area is fairly light and open (ie not heavy shade)you have the choice of ryegrass or non ryegrass mixtures.
Although not tolerant of heavy shade, ryegrasses will have a stronger rate of growth, require more frequent cutting but are hardwearing in nature.
Fescues are far more tolerant of heavy shade, slower to establish, produce far less leaf and are not as hardwearing as ryegrass (although many species do creep into open or danaged areas).

The most important aspect of establishment is soil acidity as neither ryegrass or fescues do well on acidic soils. A regular application of lime to reduce acidity is often required to prevent moss invasion and promote healthy grass growth.