Can you grow Kentucky bluegrass in the west?
It's not uncommon to find heavily irrigated Kentucky bluegrass growing in the sun-baked lawns of the West and Southwest. Premium, water-conserving seed products such as Pennington Smart Seed Kentucky Bluegrass Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix can add to your lawn's resilience.
What is the best grass seed for Kentucky bluegrass?
Premium, water-conserving seed products such as Pennington Smart Seed Kentucky Bluegrass Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix can add to your lawn's resilience. Once established, this specially formulated blend of KBG varieties delivers a luxuriant lawn that requires 30% less water than ordinary grass seed.
Does Kentucky bluegrass come back every year?
Kentucky bluegrass is what's known as a perennial, cool-season lawn grass. This means it comes back year after year and grows most vigorously during the cool seasons of fall and spring. KBG has the greatest cold hardiness of all the common cool-season lawn grasses.3 It's used most extensively in northern climates...
Which state is known as the Bluegrass State?
The state of Kentucky lays claim to the nickname "Bluegrass State," but Kentucky bluegrass didn't originate there.
What is harmful to Kentucky bluegrass?
How little can I water Kentucky bluegrass?
Is bluegrass grass drought resistant?
Who sponsors Planttalk Colorado?
Should I replace my Kentucky bluegrass if it’s dying?
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About this website
What grass grows well in Colorado?
Kentucky bluegrass is a good choice for many situations and uses. It's the most widely used lawn grass in Colorado. Local growers produce high-quality bluegrass sod. If you want to seed a bluegrass lawn, it is best to sow a blend of two to five Kentucky bluegrass cultivars in late August to early September.
What states does Kentucky bluegrass grow in?
In the southern U.S., Kentucky bluegrass is limited to the transition zone from North Carolina, through much of Tennessee, northern Arkansas to the panhandle of Texas and Oklahoma.
What zones does Kentucky bluegrass grow?
Kentucky bluegrass, prized for its lovely blue tinge and soft-bladed friendliness is a popular turf grass for home lawns, where it usually is planted in a mix that includes deeper-rooted fescues. A cool-season grass, Poa pratensis thrives in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Where does Kentucky bluegrass grow best?
Although Kentucky bluegrass is found throughout the United States, it is most important agriculturally in the north central and northeastern regions and is best adapted to areas where the average daily temperature during July does not exceed 75°F.
Does Kentucky bluegrass stay green in winter?
During the winter months, Kentucky bluegrass sod will go dormant, and needs time, warmth, sunlight, and nutrients to GREEN-UP. In fact, your neighbors' grass may green up before yours simply as a result of the genetics of the Kentucky bluegrass sod.
At what temperature does Kentucky bluegrass stop growing?
Root growth is greatest in fall and spring and slows dramatically in summer. Root growth of Kentucky bluegrass peaks at soil temperatures of 60°F and declines sharply as temperatures rise above 70°F. Root growth practically ceases at temperatures above 80°F.
Is Kentucky bluegrass heat tolerant?
Kentucky bluegrasses and tall fescues are cool-season turfgrasses known to be tolerant to heat (7), and, as expected, the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue entries in our study were tolerant to the long period of heat stress.
Is Kentucky bluegrass a good lawn grass?
For many lawn owners in the United States, Kentucky bluegrass is synonymous with the ideal lawn. When given its preferred growing conditions and proper care, this grass produces a dense, lush, durable lawn that lives up to its reputation.
Can you overseed with Kentucky bluegrass?
Use a seed spreader to spread Kentucky Bluegrass seed over the entire lawn, being especially mindful to get plenty of seed in the thin and bare spots. Use 3 pounds of Kentucky Bluegrass seed for each 1,000 square feet of lawn. Cover the entire lawn with 1/4 inch of organic manure.
Can Kentucky bluegrass grow in cold?
Cold Tolerance: Of all the cool-season grasses, Kentucky bluegrass is the most cold-tolerant. Its medium cold tolerance allows it to withstand temperatures that would destroy most other cool-season grasses.
Will Kentucky bluegrass overtake fescue?
Will Kentucky Bluegrass Choke Out Fescue? Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescues coexist well together, so it's unlikely for one to choke out the other. Fescues will thrive in the shady portions of your yard, while your bluegrass will work to fill in bare spots where grass has been damaged.
Is Kentucky bluegrass hard to grow?
The best part about Kentucky bluegrass cultivars is that they're easy to plant, grow, and manage. If you follow the specific planting, mowing, and fertilizing guidelines for Kentucky bluegrass, you're sure to have a thriving, attractive lawn.
Is Kentucky bluegrass heat tolerant?
Kentucky bluegrasses and tall fescues are cool-season turfgrasses known to be tolerant to heat (7), and, as expected, the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue entries in our study were tolerant to the long period of heat stress.
Where is the Bluegrass region of Kentucky?
The Bluegrass region is a geographic region in the U.S. state of Kentucky. It makes up the northern part of the state, roughly bounded by the cities of Frankfort, Paris, Richmond and Stanford.
Why is Kentucky called the Bluegrass State?
It is known as the "Bluegrass State", a nickname based on Kentucky bluegrass, a species of green grass found in many of its pastures, which has supported the thoroughbred horse industry in the center of the state.
Is Kentucky bluegrass invasive?
With the increasing number of invasive species, the risks associated with non-native plants are becoming widely recognized [18,19]. Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) is one of the most aggressive non-native grasses spreading across the Great Plains [6,11,12,13].
A Review on Kentucky Bluegrass Responses and Tolerance to Drought Stress
1. Introduction. Drought is one of the major environmental factors that affect plant growth and survival worldwide. Turfgrass as an important part of the green ecosystem in the urban area which provides many kinds of environmental functions such as beautify and green the city, cooling warm weather, and soil stabilization.
All You Need to Know About Kentucky Bluegrass - Pennington
For many lawn owners in the United States, Kentucky bluegrass is synonymous with the ideal lawn. When given its preferred growing conditions and proper care, this grass produces a dense, lush, durable lawn that lives up to its reputation.
1544 – Modern Bluegrass Varieties for Better Heat Tolerance and ...
Resource for Colorado residents to find research based gardening information for the diverse Colorado climate. Newcomers to Colorado will find specific information to successfully garden in Colorado's diverse climate and geography.
Watering
In April and May, bluegrass lawns need about an inch of moisture per week, be it from rain, snow or your sprinkler system. Once the temperatures heat up in June, you should increase your watering level to 1.25 inches and then 1.5 inches in July.
Aerating
Aeration is essential for keeping your lawn healthy because it relieves the soil of compaction and allows better penetration of air, water, and other nutrients into your soil. It is a great way to stimulate new root growth which makes your lawn fuller and thicker! Here is everything you need to know about aerating your lawn in Colorado.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing your Kentucky Bluegrass in Colorado is essential to keeping it healthy because nitrogen is the most important nutrient for promoting good turf color and growth. It is best to fertilize about 3 times per year. If your turf is not responding to nitrogen fertilizer, it may be lacking in other nutrients such as phosphorus or iron.
Mowing Height
Kentucky Bluegrass lawns in Colorado should be mowed to a height of 2.5 inches in spring and then allowed to grow to 3 or 3.5 inches as the weather warms.
What is the truth about Kentucky bluegrass?
That is why you should know the Truth about Kentucky Bluegrass. The truth is that Kentucky bluegrass is the most widely planted turfgrass in Colorado and the United States.
What is the best turfgrass for Colorado?
The truth is that Kentucky bluegrass is the most versatile turfgrass in Colorado. Uses up to 24 inches supplemental irrigation per growing season for an excellent quality lawn. Uses 15 to 20 inches supplemental irrigation per growing season with lower, but acceptable turf quality.
Does Kentucky bluegrass waste water?
The truth is that Kentucky bluegrass does not waste water. Most lawns are over watered by people. Kentucky bluegrass has received lots of bad press for this reason. The truth is that Kentucky bluegrass provides Excellent drought resistance. It simply becomes brown and dormant to survive prolonged drought.
What is harmful to Kentucky bluegrass?
Interestingly, more than a few tall fescue lawns were killed or thinned by the same watering restrictions under which bluegrass survived quite well. It is also true that while a large number of bluegrass lawns died or were found dead in the spring after extended dry periods. The majority of these dead lawns had been damaged by spider mites, not properly managed prior to the drought (poor mowing, fertilization, irrigation, and other cultural practices), or were planted in poorly prepared soil.
How little can I water Kentucky bluegrass?
Homeowners discovered that twice weekly watering restrictions would produce healthy bluegrass lawns. Even once weekly watering was adequate for all but the warmest summer periods. Many bluegrass lawns can survive weeks – even months – without any supplemental irrigation.
Is bluegrass grass drought resistant?
Bluegrass is still the best grass species for many of the places where it is now growing – and a drought resistant one at that! For more information, see the following Colorado State University Extension fact sheet (s). Watering Established Lawns. Lawn Care. Fall and Winter Watering.
Who sponsors Planttalk Colorado?
Planttalk Colorado™ is sponsored by Colorado State University Extension, Denver Botanic gardens, and the Green Industries of Colorado. For additional information on gardening, see Plant Select ® and Extension Publications.
Should I replace my Kentucky bluegrass if it’s dying?
Before replacing an otherwise healthy bluegrass lawn with an alternative grass, do research and talk to experts. This is especially relevant in communities that may restrict installation of new plant material. Bluegrass is still the best grass species for many of the places where it is now growing – and a drought resistant one at that!
What type of grass is used in Colorado Springs?
Kentucky Bluegrass is the most widely used grass for lawns in the Colorado Springs area. It is a perennial, cool season turfgrass that spreads by rhizomes, producing a thick sod. For areas that will have heavy foot traffic from children or pets, Kentucky bluegrass is a good choice.
Does Kentucky bluegrass go dormant?
Although it requires regular watering to keep it green and prevent winterkill, Kentucky bluegrass can go dormant (turn brown) during dry periods and recover when moisture becomes available.
What is Kentucky bluegrass?
Kentucky Bluegrass at a Glance 1 Cool-season lawn grass. 2 Suitable for northern lawns from coast to coast. 3 Excellent winter hardiness. 4 Some varieties susceptible to heat and drought. 5 Limited shade tolerance. 6 Excellent capacity for self-repair. 7 Some varieties vulnerable to stress damage.
What temperature does Kentucky bluegrass grow?
Seeding and Overseeding. Kentucky bluegrass germinates best when soil temperatures range between 50°F and 65°F. That typically corresponds to daytime air temperatures of 60°F to 75°F.
When to apply Pennington UltraGreen Crabgrass Preventer Plus Fertilizer III 30-0-4?
Prevent new weeds and feed your established KBG lawn in early spring with Pennington UltraGreen Crabgrass Preventer Plus Fertilizer III 30-0-4. Apply this preemergent before crabgrass starts germinating — that happens as soil temperatures hit 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not treat seeded or overseeded areas until at least 60 days after seeding.
Where did bluegrass originate?
The state of Kentucky lays claim to the nickname "Bluegrass State," but Kentucky bluegrass didn't originate there. Like many common U.S. turf grasses, this versatile, widely used grass is native to Europe and northern Asia.1 Its first use in the U.S. came as a pasture grass in states like Kentucky, where it still covers ...
Is KBG grass good for bare feet?
Add its medium to fine texture, and a KBG lawn is both beautiful to look at and comfortable for bare feet. As with other cool-season grasses, Kentucky bluegrass growth slows significantly during hot summer months. During extreme heat or extended drought, the grass will go dormant.
Is Kentucky bluegrass perennial or annual?
Kentucky bluegrass is what's known as a perennial, cool-season lawn grass. This means it comes back year after year and grows most vigorously during the cool seasons of fall and spring.
Who is the author of Choosing a Grass for Arkansas Lawns?
3. Patton, A. and Boyd J., " Choosing a Grass for Arkansas Lawns ," University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension.
How to tell if bluegrass is affected by NRS?
Bluegrass affected by NRS exhibits extensive root and crown discoloration and rot. This can be observed by cutting a small sod piece from the lawn and carefully washing off soil and organic matter from roots. Darkly pigmented fungal threads are visible with a hand lens on the root surface although this may be difficult to view since bluegrass roots have a natural tan to brown coloration.
How long does a fungus live on a dead bluegrass plant?
The fungus survives from year to year on dead, colonized bluegrass roots and crowns or on the surface of living roots. The fungus actively colonizes the outside of roots at soil temperatures between 65° and 80° F.
What is a NRS in Kentucky?
Necrotic ringspot (NRS) is a perennial disease of Kentucky bluegrass.
When does NRS show up?
Thus, NRS symptoms often don’t show up until July or August even though root colonization begins in May and continues throughout the summer.
What does a yellow ring on a lawn mean?
Existing patches from previous years often develop a bright yellow ring, followed by plant collapse and death. Patches that develop in shady spots or areas with excessive thatch are more severely damaged and have a crater-like appearance. In successive years, rings may coalesce to create larger arcs of dead turf.
When does a ring spot appear in a lawn?
Necrotic ring spot often appears two to three years after lawn establishment , although it may not develop in a lawn for a decade or more. Symptoms of NRS may be apparent throughout the growing season, but they commonly intensify in late July or August during periods of summer stress.
Is NRS common in Colorado?
Currently NRS is much more common in Colorado lawns and summer patch should only be considered if symptoms do not quite match NRS. Confirmation of the cause of patch symptoms can be verified by one of the plant disease diagnostic labs in the state. Figure 2.
What grass is widely used in Colorado?
Kentucky bluegrass is a good choice for many situations and uses. It’s the most widely used lawn grass in Colorado. Local growers produce high-quality bluegrass sod. If you want to seed a bluegrass lawn, it is best to sow a blend of two to five Kentucky bluegrass cultivars in late August to early September.
What other grasses are successful in Colorado?
Other grasses that generally work well for Colorado lawns are buffalo grass, blue grama, turf-type tall fescue, fine-bladed fescues such as hard, red, chewings or sheep, perennial ryegrass and crested wheatgrass.
Who sponsors Planttalk Colorado?
Planttalk Colorado™ is sponsored by Colorado State University Extension, Denver Botanic gardens, and the Green Industries of Colorado. For additional information on gardening, see Plant Select ® and Extension Publications.
Is there grass in Colorado 1521?
1521 – Choosing a Lawn Grass in Colorado. Some people would like to believe in the existence of a lawn grass that requires NO maintenance — no water, no mowing, no fertilizer. No such grass exists, despite come-on ads in magazines and Sunday newspaper supplements.
How to grow Kentucky bluegrass?
To establish Kentucky bluegrass seeds, prepare a firm, smooth seedbed and buy high-quality seed. Kentucky bluegrass likes well-drained soil. If you do have disturbed areas, use soil amendments to fortify the seedbed. Once you aerate and seed, cover with soil no deeper than one-fourth to one-half of an inch.
When is the Best Time to Plant Kentucky Bluegrass?
The best time to plant is in the fall, although spring is also a good time; this is why this grass type is classified as a cool-season grass.
What is the best grass for lawns?
Whether you live in the north of the country, or one of the Southern transition states, Kentucky bluegrass is one of the most common turfgrass for lawns. It’s the ideal cool-season grass for erosion control, it displays a hardy profile against drier summer climates, and its long, bluish-green hue makes it the perfect choice for beautification. ...
How to keep grass from turning brown?
Set your first few mowings at a lower setting with a sharpened blade. This allows sun, water, and nutrients to continue penetrating the base of your grass and stops the tips from turning dull and brown.
How long does it take for grass to germinate?
Germination time takes anywhere between 21 to 28 days. Once blades of grass appear and begin growing in the spring, you want to water one to two-and-a-half inches weekly.
When is the best time to plant grass?
The best time to plant is in the fall, although spring is also a good time; this is why this grass type is classified as a cool-season grass.
Does Kentucky bluegrass need moisture?
This added height will protect the root system from the sun. In case you experience a hot or dry summer, this will also help retain moisture . That’s useful for Kentucky bluegrass, which does have a tendency to turn brown and patchy in arid heat.
What is harmful to Kentucky bluegrass?
Interestingly, more than a few tall fescue lawns were killed or thinned by the same watering restrictions under which bluegrass survived quite well. It is also true that while a large number of bluegrass lawns died or were found dead in the spring after extended dry periods. The majority of these dead lawns had been damaged by spider mites, not properly managed prior to the drought (poor mowing, fertilization, irrigation, and other cultural practices), or were planted in poorly prepared soil.
How little can I water Kentucky bluegrass?
Homeowners discovered that twice weekly watering restrictions would produce healthy bluegrass lawns. Even once weekly watering was adequate for all but the warmest summer periods. Many bluegrass lawns can survive weeks – even months – without any supplemental irrigation.
Is bluegrass grass drought resistant?
Bluegrass is still the best grass species for many of the places where it is now growing – and a drought resistant one at that! For more information, see the following Colorado State University Extension fact sheet (s). Watering Established Lawns. Lawn Care. Fall and Winter Watering.
Who sponsors Planttalk Colorado?
Planttalk Colorado™ is sponsored by Colorado State University Extension, Denver Botanic gardens, and the Green Industries of Colorado. For additional information on gardening, see Plant Select ® and Extension Publications.
Should I replace my Kentucky bluegrass if it’s dying?
Before replacing an otherwise healthy bluegrass lawn with an alternative grass, do research and talk to experts. This is especially relevant in communities that may restrict installation of new plant material. Bluegrass is still the best grass species for many of the places where it is now growing – and a drought resistant one at that!
