Horticulture Principles and Practices

18.1.3 UTILITY
Bare areas on slopes along roads, ponds, and other construction work sites are prone to
soil erosion. To prevent this potential soil loss, turf is used in an ecological role to stabilize
the soil.
The ornamental role of turf depends on the visual quality it projects. Visual quality
is a function of several factors including texture (fine or coarse), color (pale or rich
green), uniformity or evenness in appearance, growth habit, and other characteristics. To
be used in sports fields, a turf’s functionality depends on its resistance to wear (capacity
to rebound after traffic, or its elasticity and resilience). To be used to cover bare grounds,
the utility quality of a turf depends on its aggressivity, or colonizing habit. These factors
are further discussed in this chapter.
18.2 ESTABLISHING A LAWN
Once established, a lawn can remain indefinitely, provided a sufficient management
schedule is adopted. It is therefore important that a good deal of planning go into its
establishment.
18.2.1 REGIONAL ADAPTATION OF SPECIES
Grass species should be selected based on regional adaptation, use of the lawn, maintenance
level required, and of course aesthetic value. Like other plants, turfgrass species
differ in their climatic growth requirements. Some species prefer cooler temperatures
and others warmer conditions. Turfgrass species may be divided into two general groups
on the basis of climatic adaptations (Figure 18–2).
FIGURE 18–2 Areas of turfgrass
adaptation: 1 and 2 = coolseason
grasses, 3 = transitional
zone, 4 = warm-season grasses.
1
3
1
2
2
2
3
3 4
2 4
3
4
4
2
3
3
3
2
3
3
1
4
3
2
4
2
4
4
1
4
4
544 Chapter 18 Turf Production and Use