ESC-042 6/16
Bermudagrass Casey Reynolds and Matt Elmore* Lawn Management Calendar
Many varieties of bermudagrass are available—it can be purchased as seed, sprigs, or sod (https://aggieturf.tamu. edu/texas-turfgrasses/bermudagrass/). It is, however, important to note the distinction between ‘common’ and ‘hybrid’ varieties. Common bermudagrass ( Cynodon dactylon ) varieties often have coarse leaf texture and are light green com- pared to hybrid varieties. However, breeding efforts have significantly improved the appearance of common bermu- dagrasses. Some of these improved varieties have finer leaf texture, darker color, and greater density. These are most often planted as seed, but some (e.g. Princess) are also available as sod.
Bermudagrass Scientific Name: Cynodon dactylon L. Pers; Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers × Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt Davy Strengths: Drought tolerance, heat tolerance, deep rooting potential, durability, good recuperative potential, salinity tolerance, rapid establishment rate, and low disease potential. Weaknesses: Does not tolerate shade well, requires frequent mowing, moderate to high fertilization requirement. Description: Bermudagrass is a warm-season, fine-textured turfgrass that spreads stems laterally below-ground by rhizomes and above ground by stolons. It is a drought-hardy, durable, and versatile turfgrass. It establishes relatively quickly from seed or sprigs and has superior traffic tolerance and rapid recuperative potential. These attributes, combined with its tolerance for low mowing heights, make it ideal for golf courses and athletic fields as well as other heavily trafficked areas. It is also one of the most well-adapted turfgrass species for use in Texas home lawns (Figure 1).
Bermudagrass
Recommended
Not adapted
– Urban area
Figure 1. Areas adapted to Bermudagrass
*Assistant Professors and Extension Turfgrass Specialists
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator