BACKGROUND
Selecting the right grass for a specific environment is crucial to achieving the desired appearance, durability, and maintenance outcomes. Different grass varieties vary widely in their water requirements, resistance to pests and diseases, sod strength, and tolerance to salinity. In regions prone to drought and experiencing heavy use, such as southern lawns, sports stadiums and golf courses, having a grass variety specifically adapted to those challenges is essential. These venues represent substantial investments and sources of revenue where turf performance directly impacts functionality and aesthetics.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
Oklahoma State Researchers develop advanced hybrid bermudagrass cultivars derived from crossing selective grasses. Extensively evaluating for the southern U.S. states, current varieties demonstrate desired qualities like outstanding drought resistance, superior turf quality under extreme weather stress, and/or performing as well as or better than industry standards. OSU cultivars have been designed to exhibit strong tolerance to salinity, excellent disease resistance, fine leaf texture, robust sod strength, and efficient water use. Genetically distinct and well-suited for commercial sod production, lawns, sports fields, and golf courses, current offerings thrive in USDA hardiness zones 7a and warmer. Oklahoma State Researchers continue to design grasses for today’s market. Contact InnovationPortal@okstate.edu to meet your future market needs through OSU research.
PROVEN SUCCESSFUL CULTIVARS FOR
- Residential Lawn Care Services; Hardiness of 7a or Warmer
- Corporate/Campus Ground Management; Drought Resistant & Robust Sod Strength
- Athletic Field Construction; Southern U.S. Football & Soccer Stadiums
- Public Parks & Landmarks; Water Conservation & Improved Turf Quality
- Turf Farm Operations; Warm Climate Outdoor Activities/Spaces
- Golf Courses; Southern Golf Courses, Drought Ridden Courses, Reducing Environmental Impact
DESIGNED ADVANTAGES
- Exceptional Drought Tolerance & Water Use Efficiency
- Strong Resistance to Leaf Spot Disease & Mite Pests
- Fine Leaf Texture & High Turf Quality Ratings
- Improved Salinity Tolerance Compared to Existing Standards
- Robust Establishment & Recovery Following Drought Stress
- Genetically Distinct from Currently Available Bermudagrasses