BYGL Turf Tips May 15, 2008 SEEDY LAWNS
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Warming temperatures have stimulated some cultivars of improved Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) in southern Ohio to produce seedheads. This is a natural occurrence; however, it may temporarily reduce overall turf quality. The seed heads become obvious as they turn yellowish-brown, and the woody stalks resist mower blades. Also, seedhead production saps energy from the plant, and may cause grass blades to become sparse and off-colored. Seedhead production is seldom consistent throughout a home lawn, and it sometimes occurs in patches. Thus, "seedy" Kentucky bluegrass is often made more obvious with patches occurring in an otherwise smooth, dark green lawn. Although seedhead production can affect turf quality, it is a short‑term problem. Eventually the turfgrass will literally out‑grow the problem. Of course, recovery will occur faster on lawns that have been properly maintained (e.g. proper fertilization, watering, mowing, etc.). Lowering mowers one-notch for one cutting can improve lawn aesthetics; however, this should not be done for multiple cuttings since low-mowing will stress the lawn. The propensity to produce seedheads in lawns varies among Kentucky bluegrass cultivars and this characteristic is evaluated in the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program [ http://www.ntep.org ]. Consequently, a more long‑term solution may involve selecting cultivars that are less inclined to produce seedheads. |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 14 May 2008 23:05 ) |
