Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

Plant Management Network

Publisher

USDA-ARS

Publication Date

2006

Abstract

Crested wheatgrass [Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn.] has potential as a reduced-maintenance turfgrass, but seeding rates that assure rapid, uniform establishment are critical for success. 'Roadcrest,' CWG-R, and Chelkar breeding populations of crested wheatgrass, 'Sodar' streambank wheatgrass [Elymus lanceolatus (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Gould], and 'Gazelle' tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) were seeded at 0.5, 2.0, and 6.0 lb/1000 ft² in 1999. Plots were irrigated 50 to 60% EToreplacement, with 2 lb of N per 1000 ft² per year, and mowed at 3 inches. Higher seeding rates consistently had higher percent cover ratings than did lower seeding rates in 1999. By July of 2000 no differences existed between the 2.0 and 6.0 lb/1000 ft² seeding rates for turf quality, and percent cover, but both had higher ratings than the 0.5 lb/1000 ft² rates. Sodar, Chelkar, and tall fescue established faster, retained a denser stand, and better turf quality than Roadcrest and CWG-R. A seeding rate of 6.0 lb/1000 ft² is recommended for fastest establishment of wheatgrass cultivars in a low maintenance turf. A 2.0 lb/1000 ft² seeding rate could be used, but would likely need somewhat more maintenance and time to achieve a comparable stand.

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