Winter Turf Performance Trials

Abstract

Overseeding trials were conducted to evaluate the turf-type fitness of cool season grasses for use in the desert when bermudagrass is dormant. Perennial ryegrass, fine fescues, rough stalk bluegrasses and creeping bentgrasses were tested for turfgrass quality, color, percent ground cover and uniformity under a close mowing (3/8 inch) regime. Entries varied significantly from each other once seasonal hard frosts did not recur after January. Certain entries had better turf performance under hot (late spring) conditions. Both commercially available and experimental germplasm were evaluated.