Turf Grasses
How do I know which one to use?
Objectives
• Be able to name at least three turf grasses • Describe characteristics of each • Using a scenario, select species and tell why
New Terms
• Species
– group of organisms with common characteristics, capable of producing fertile offspring
Cultivar
variety of plant within a species with different characteristics, capable of passing on to offspring
•
Blend
two or more cultivars of the same species
Mixture
two or more species together
Warm season
grows best when temps are 80-95 degrees F
Cool season
grows best when temps are 60-75 degrees F
Buffalo Grass
• • • • • • • Warm season Native to the plains Requires little maintenance Drought resistance Needs open sun Needs well drained soil Does poorly in sand
Kentucky Bluegrass
• Cool season • Most widely used turfgrass • Needs open sun, can stand some partial shade • Medium to high maintenance • Fair wear resistance, but good recovery • Good drought tolerance
Tall Fescue
• • • • • • Cool season Low maintenance Tolerates low fertility Fair to good in shade Good wear resistance, but slow recovery Course textured
Perennial Ryegrass
• • • • • • • Cool season Fast germination Susceptible to winter kill Medium to high maintenance Wear tolerance is good Tolerates compacted soils Tolerates close mowing
Fine-Leaf Fescue
• • • • • • Cool season Excellent shade tolerance Drought tolerant Low maintenance Likes well drained sandy soil Mainly used in mixtures
Rough Bluegrass
• • • • • • Cool season Long lived Does well in poorly drained soil High shade tolerance Low heat tolerance Mainly used in mixtures
Smooth Bromegrass
• • • • • • Cool season Low maintenance Used for roadsides, slopes, etc. Long lived Drought and heat resistant Does not tolerate close mowing or heavy traffic
Fairway Wheatgrass
• • • • • • Cool season Excellent drought resistance Not very heat tolerant Used for low maintenance turf areas Prefers well drained sandy loam to clay soil Fairly rapid establishment
So Now What?
• • • • • • • Temperature zone + Soil type + Use + Desired effect
Equals
Turfgrass which fits your lifestyle, adds beauty and value, and is adapted to the environment.