ARS | Publication request: Turf varieties for the Intermountain West

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: January 28, 2013
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Landscape managers and sod growers in the Intermountain West are limited in their ability to select the varieties of turfgrass that perform well in this semi-arid environment. The varieties of seed sold in Utah are rarely based on what performs well here. Turf managers will often make one visit to the Utah State University NTEP plots, during summer, and select the darkest green variety under perfect management. However, elite varieties of Kentucky bluegrass, such as Midnight types, perform poorly in early spring, late fall, and in mid-summer. Thus managers should prioritize quality, with perhaps lighter green color, throughout the year rather than just one cross section. The USDA-ARS-FRRL is identifying new sources of turf grasses, Kentucky bluegrass in particular, that are drought hardy and salt tolerant. These are in testing phases, and partners for release are being sought. Additionally, the USDA-ARS-FRRL and USU Center for Water Efficient Landscaping and identifying better cultivars for tolerance to the chronic water stresses that occur here in Utah.