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Posted in: Lawn & Landscaping
Introduction:

We often get asked by customers if they can buy Kentucky Bluegrass seed here in the UK. Here we explore what it is and answer the questions you may have on it.

Kentucky Bluegrass, scientifically known as Poa pratensis, is a cool-season grass widely utilised in landscaping, lawns, sports fields, and golf courses. Native to Europe and Asia, it thrives prominently in North America, particularly in the state of Kentucky. In the UK, it is recognised by a different name, Smooth Stalked Meadow Grass.

Key Features:
  1. Versatility and Appearance: Kentucky Bluegrass boasts a fine texture and lush green colour, contributing to visually appealing and attractive lawns when properly maintained.
  2. Growth Habit: With a spreading growth habit through above-ground rhizomes, it forms a dense and carpet-like turf. This rhizomatous growth makes it popular for turf growers, aiding in soil cohesion and producing robust turf rolls.
  3. Adaptability: Well-adapted to cool climates, Kentucky Bluegrass is often chosen for regions with cold winters and moderate summers. It is not as heat-tolerant as warm-season grasses.
  4. Drought Sensitivity: While capable of withstanding moderate drought conditions, it thrives best with consistent moisture.
  5. Sun and Shade Tolerance: Preferring full sun but tolerating light shade, it is commonly used in sunny lawns but may face challenges in heavily shaded areas.
Popularity in the USA:

In the UK, we enjoy a consistent, temperate climate. However, the northern half of the USA experiences significant temperature swings from summer to winter. Kentucky Bluegrass shines in such climates, tolerating temperature extremes that many other grass species cannot endure. This resilience is particularly evident in regions with freezing temperatures, making it a preferred choice in the USA and even Scandinavian countries.

Drawbacks and Considerations:

While Kentucky Bluegrass offers numerous benefits, it does have a notable drawback. It requires higher temperatures for germination, with optimal soil temperatures ranging from 15-25°C. This translates to a limited sowing window, typically from June to mid-September in the UK. Additionally, it germinates more slowly compared to perennial ryegrass, taking 14-28 days under suitable conditions.

In the UK, perennial ryegrass often outshines Kentucky Bluegrass due to its faster germination, extended sowing window, increased durability, and enhanced visual appeal. However, for regions experiencing prolonged sub-zero weather, Kentucky Bluegrass remains a valuable option.

Availability in the UK:

For those interested in incorporating Kentucky Bluegrass into their landscapes in the UK, you can buy Kentucky Bluegrass seed from Grass Seed Online. Explore the possibilities of this versatile grass for a resilient and visually appealing lawn.

¹Climate in Minnesote, St Cloud State University. https://www.stcloudstate.edu/internationaladmissions/accepted-next-steps/climate.aspx#:~:text=Normal%20daily%20temperatures,Paul.&text=Winter%20in%20Minnesota%20is%20characterized%20by%20cold%20(below%20freezing)%20temperatures.

²Cool-Season Turf Winterkill: Potential Losses and a Pathway to Recovery. Purdue University. https://turf.purdue.edu/cool-season-turf-winterkill-potential-losses-and-a-pathway-to-recovery/

Posted in: Lawn & Landscaping
When to sow grass seed?
Introduction:

You want to establish a lawn from seed, you have bought your grass seed and you are ready to sow. But, when is the right time to sow grass seed to establish a lawn from scratch? The key to establishing a brilliant lawn from seed is to find the right time of the year to sow. In this article, we will discuss when is the best month to sow grass seed in the United Kingdom and other important factors to consider before you start sowing your lawn.

What month is best for sowing grass seed?

The best month to sow grass seed in the United Kingdom is generally from mid – Spring through to late-Autumn when soil temperatures are warming up and air temperatures are climbing. Sowing later in Spring or early summer can also be successful but it is likely that sowing too late autumn/winter sowing will result in poor germination rates due to cold soil temperatures and wetter weather conditions.

Sowing grass seed in the spring can sometimes result in more annual and perennial weeds. There are a few reasons for this increase in competition from weeds:

  1. Weed Competition: Spring is a time when many weed seeds also germinate and start growing vigorously. When you sow grass seed during this season, your newly germinated grass may have to compete with these fast-growing weeds for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Weeds are often more aggressive in spring, potentially outcompeting the grass seedlings.
  2. Cool Soil Temperatures: Weeds often begin to grow in lower soil temperatures than grass. The result is that soil conditions favour the weed species over the grass. As the temperature increases lawn weeds may establish themselves more quickly in the warmer soil, posing a challenge to the newly sown grass. This is often the case in clay soils that are slow to warm up in the spring, as opposed to sandy soils that will war up quicker. Shady lawns are often cooler in the spring and may be slower to germinate.
  3. Inconsistent Weather Conditions: Spring weather can be unpredictable, with fluctuating temperatures and varying levels of rainfall. These conditions may create stress for the newly planted grass, making it more susceptible to weed invasion. Weeds are often hardier and can adapt to changing conditions more effectively than newly germinated grass seedlings.
How to minimise weed seed germination:
  • Preparation: Prepare the soil thoroughly before seeding to reduce the existing weed population.
  • Weed Control: Treat the area with a herbicide, such as glyphosate, that will kill any existing plants but will not affect the new sowings. However, be cautious with herbicide use, as some products may also inhibit the germination of grass seeds.
  • Monitor and Remove Weeds: Regularly inspect the area for emerging weeds and remove them promptly to reduce competition with the grass seedlings.
  • Choose the Right Grass Species: Select grass varieties that are well-suited to your specific climate and growing conditions. Some grass species may be more resilient against weed competition because they are faster to establish, such as seed mixes containing perennial ryegrass.

By taking these precautions and being attentive to weed management, you can increase the chances of successful grass establishment even when sowing in the spring.

Sowing seed in autumn sowing is very effective due to the combination of high soil temperatures and high air temperatures. To establish your lawn from seed keeping constant moisture around the seed for a couple of weeks is very important. A light watering to keep the soil moist will always help, but in the autumn there is usually more frequent rainfall so this becomes less of a necessity. Another benefit of autumn sowing is that you will not have the danger of heading into a period of hot, dry weather. If you do not have water available, sowing in the spring can be risky if conditions turn dry.

The Royal Horticultural Society has a guide on controlling weeds.

What is the latest time of year to plant lawn seed?

In the United Kingdom, a relatively limited set of grass species is commonly utilized. Perennial ryegrass, red fescues, and bents collectively make up more than 90% of the grass seed employed for lawns in the UK. However, these three species exhibit distinct requirements regarding germination temperatures, influencing the optimal timing for sowing. Here are the temperatures at which one can anticipate favourable germination:

  • Perennial ryegrass: 7°C (with a germination period of 7-14 days)
  • Red fescues: 11°C (with a germination period of 11-21 days)
  • Bent: 15°C (with a germination period of 11-21 days)

While germination can occur below these temperatures, the process is likely to be prolonged due to the biochemical processes of germination slowing down under cooler conditions.

It’s evident that soil temperatures tend to rise in mid-spring and summer, gradually decreasing as we move into autumn and winter. However, the ground exhibits a slow response to warming up and cooling down. This means that, during spring, while air temperatures may be favourable, soil temperatures can lag behind for a considerable period. This characteristic poses challenges, particularly if dry spells occur as we approach summer. In our current climate, achieving optimal conditions can be tricky, with dry spring conditions being a common concern. Despite the warmth in April, the soil may retain its coolness. It’s likely safe to sow, but the germination process might take a bit longer than anticipated.

Grass Seed Germination Temperatures

Grass Seed Germination Temperatures

The provided chart illustrates soil temperatures in Edinburgh throughout a 12-month span, juxtaposed with the temperatures required for optimal germination of the three primary grass seed species. The observations reveal significant distinctions.

  • Perennial ryegrass: Recommended sowing period extends from mid-March to mid-November.
  • Red fescues: Optimal sowing spans from mid-April to late October.
  • Bent: Ideal sowing time is from June to mid-September.

Conclusion: A standout finding is that perennial ryegrass boasts the broadest sowing window, with late summer being the prime period. Seeding in autumn offers the best chance for successful lawn establishment. However, if early spring or late autumn sowing is preferred, incorporating perennial ryegrass in the mixture is advisable. Even at less-than-ideal temperatures, grass species can still germinate, albeit at a slower pace. Grass seeds can endure extended periods in the soil before germinating, but prolonged wetness may lead to rot. Choosing when to plant grass seed in the UK is crucial, and when in doubt, opting for a mix with ryegrass is a wise choice.

Additional considerations:
  • Seeding in autumn reduces weed competition, especially from annual plants like thistles, whose germination aligns with spring.
  • Soil type matters; moist clay soils may take longer to warm up in spring, while sandy soils generally offer warmer conditions, conducive to grass seed germination.
  • For winter seeding, grass seed mixtures containing annual ryegrass exhibit better germination in cold soil temperatures.
  • Adequate moisture is crucial during seeding, but heavy rain should be avoided, as it may wash away seeds or create a soil surface cap, hindering germination.
Posted in: Lawn & Landscaping

Understanding Annual Ryegrass: A Solution to Challenging Conditions

In simple terms, annual ryegrass offers a solution to a common problem in grass seeding. When the weather is too cold for other grass seed varieties, annual ryegrass provides a viable option. Perennial ryegrass, known for its ability to germinate at low temperatures (7 degrees Celsius), is surpassed by annual ryegrass, which has demonstrated germination capabilities as low as 4 degrees in laboratory trials*. This makes annual ryegrass the best grass seed for sowing in the winter.

Life Cycle and Uses

Annual ryegrass, scientifically known as Lolium multiflorum, has a distinct life cycle, completing its growth within a year. Similar to other annual plants like poppies or cornflowers, it germinates, produces leaves and shoots, flowers, produces seeds, and then naturally dies off. These plants establish quickly, a crucial characteristic for their survival as they need to produce seeds rapidly for the next generation to thrive.

In recent years, plant breeders, notably international grass seed breeder Barenbrug, have enhanced the desirable low-temperature germination qualities of annual ryegrass. Barenbrug successfully developed annual ryegrasses specifically designed for turf or sports applications. By gradually reducing the size of traditional annual ryegrass plants, they created varieties comparable to conventional perennial ryegrass. The outcome is a range of grass seed mixtures that enable grass establishment during periods when it was previously challenging.

Pitch Perfect: Winter Sports Solutions

A primary application of these grass seed mixtures is on football and rugby pitches during the winter playing season. Winter sports pose challenges for groundkeepers due to pitch wear during slow growth periods. Traditional repairs without modern technologies like under-soil heating and heat lamps can be difficult. However, a grass seed mixture containing annual ryegrass becomes a valuable solution for repairing damaged areas such as goalmouths and touchlines. Increasingly groundsmen are turning to annual ryegrass grass seed for sowing in the winter.

Short-Term Strategy

Given the short lifespan of annual ryegrass, it’s crucial to combine it with conventional perennial ryegrass seed. The perennial ryegrass seed remains in the soil, germinating when spring temperatures become suitable. Eventually, as the annual ryegrass dies back, the perennial ryegrass takes over, ensuring continuous coverage.

Beyond Sports: Versatile Applications

While annual ryegrass finds considerable use in sports, its versatility extends to various areas requiring coverage in low temperatures. It proves effective for repairing road verges, lawns, and even steep slopes. Due to its rapid germination, annual ryegrass is often included in grass seed mixtures for embankments, stabilizing the soil quickly and acting as a nurse crop for other grasses as they germinate and establish.

*Lin, Jixiang & Hua, Xiaoyu & Peng, Xiaoyuan & Dong, Bolin & Yan, Xiufeng. (2018). Germination Responses of Ryegrass (Annual vs. Perennial) Seed to the Interactive Effects of Temperature and Salt-Alkali Stress. Frontiers in Plant Science. 9. 1458. 10.3389/fpls.2018.01458. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328166309_Germination_Responses_of_Ryegrass_Annual_vs_Perennial_Seed_to_the_Interactive_Effects_of_Temperature_and_Salt-Alkali_Stress

 

Posted in: Care & Maintenance, Lawn & Landscaping
When to plant grass seed in the UK?
Introduction

When to plant lawn seed in the UK is one of the most common questions we get from customers. Establishing a healthy lawn from seed is all down to giving it the best start. But to give it the best start it is vital to sow it at the right time of year. In this article we will look at soil temperatures and the effect they have.

Different require different temperatures

In the UK we only use a relatively small set of grass species. Perennial ryegrass, red fescues and bents account for over 90% of grass seed used in the UK for lawns. But these three species have different requirements when it comes to germination temperatures. This in turn effects when is is best to sow them. Below are the temperatures at which you would expect ‘good’ germination.

Perennial ryegrass = 7°C (7-14 days)

Red fescues = 11°C (11-21 days)

Bent = 15°C (11-21 days)

Germination will occur below these temperatures. But it is likely to take longer due to the biochemical processes of germination slowing down.

Soil temperatures in the UK

It is obvious to say that soil temperatures increase as we enter the mid – spring and summer and decline into autumn and winter. However the ground is slow to warm and slow to cool down. This means that in the spring the air temperatures can be good, but soil temperatures can lag behind for a while. For this reason spring months can be challenging, especially if there are dry spells as we head into the summer. With our current climate finding perfect conditions can be hard, dry spring conditoins being a regular issue. The weather in April may feel warm, but the soil can be cold. Chances are it will be fine to sow, but the seed may take a little longer than expected.

The effect on seed germination
Grass Seed Germination Temperatures

The effect of soil temperature on germination times of different grass seed species in the UK.

The above chart plots the soil temperatures in Edinburgh over a 12 month period. Plotted against it are the temperatures required for ‘good’ germination from the three main grass seed species. The result shows a big difference.

Perennial ryegrass = mid-March to mid-November

Red fescues = mid-April to late October

Bent = June to mid-September

Conclusion

The stand out piece of information is that perennial ryegrass has the widest sowing window and late summer is the optimum time. If you seed in autumn you are giving your lawn the seed the best chace of succesful establishment. But if you are looking to sow early in the spring or late in the autumn, use a mixture containing perennial ryegrass. Even at sub optimal temperatures, grass species can still germinate but they will just take longer. Grass seed can survive in the ground for prolonged periods before germinating. But it must not sit permenently wet, otherwise it is likely to rot. When to plant grass seed in the UK is an important question to get right, but if in doubt choose a grass seed mix with ryegrass.

Other things to consider:

  • Seeding in the autumn months results in less competition from weeds. Weed seeds from annual plants like thistles are less likely to be a problem as thier germination process favours the spring.
  • Your soil type and soil conditions should be considered. Moist soils such as clay soils can take longer to warm up in the spring. Conversely, sandy soil is generally warm soil, which is great for grass seed germination.
  • If the autumn months pass and you need to look at seeding in the winter months, there are types of grass seed that can help. Grass seed mixtures containing annual reygrass have better levels of germination in chilly soil temperatures.
  • It is important to have adequate moisture levels when seeding, but it is best to avoid periods of heavy rain. Torrential rain can cause seed to be washed away or cap the soil surface, resulting in seed struggling to germinate.

References: Braun, Ross & Patton, Aaron & Watkins, Eric & Hollman, Andrew & Murphy, James & Park, Bradley & Kowalewski, Alexander & Braithwaite, Emily. (2021). Optimal fine fescue mixture seeding dates in the Northern United States. Agronomy Journal. 113. 10.1002/agj2.20859. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353984830_Optimal_fine_fescue_mixture_seeding_dates_in_the_Northern_United_States

 

Posted in: Lawn & Landscaping

Will Frost Kill Grass Seed?

As winter sets in and the days grow shorter, the first widespread frosts of the season have made their appearance. But what happens if you’ve recently sown grass seed and it germinates only to be covered in frost? Does frost pose a threat to newly sown grass seed, and is there anything you can do to protect it? Let’s delve into the details.

Autumn is considered the optimal time for sowing grass seed. During this season, soil temperatures are generally high, and there is ample moisture available to facilitate successful seed germination. This stands in contrast to spring, where ideal seed-sowing conditions can quickly turn unfavourable if the weather becomes hot and dry. However, sowing grass seed in late autumn does carry the risk of encountering cold conditions. The positive news, though, is that newly sown grass seed demonstrates a considerable resilience to frost.

Your grass will be OK!

Young, recently germinated grass plants can withstand periods of air frost typically experienced in autumn. Interestingly, these young plants often maintain a slightly higher temperature than their mature counterparts. This difference is sometimes evident when areas of newly sown grass remain free of frost, contrasting with the ‘white over’ appearance of surrounding mature grass. While extended periods of deep ground frosts may negatively impact young seedlings, such conditions are unlikely in the autumn.

Nevertheless, the onset of frosts contributes to a decrease in soil temperature, slowing down the speed of germination and overall plant growth. This slowdown is a result of the inhibition of various biochemical reactions essential for growth in lower temperatures*. Additionally, cold temperatures can impact the availability of nutrients in the soil, as microbial activity responsible for breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients slows down in colder conditions. This limitation can affect the essential nutrient supply for grass growth.

Keep off the grass!

Footprints in frost

Keep off the grass! Walking on frozen grass will damage the leaf and increase the chances of disease taking hold.

If your new grass happens to be hit by frost, it’s crucial to take one important step – stay off it! Ice crystals forming on the plant’s leaves can easily puncture the leaf when walked upon. The consequence is dark footprints that will turn yellow as the leaf dries out when the frost melts. While this damage is superficial and won’t kill the plant, it weakens it, making it more susceptible to diseases.

In summary, while frost may temporarily slow down the growth of newly sown grass and cause superficial damage, proper care and patience can help the plants recover. Avoiding walking on frosted grass and maintaining good lawn care practices will promote healthy growth once the weather conditions improve.

It’s not too late to sow.

Despite the onset of frosts, it’s not too late to sow grass seed! Perennial ryegrass will germinate in soil temperatures from 7 degrees Celsius, and red fescue from 11 degrees Celsius. Today, on the 16th of October, the soil temperature at midday registers at 10.2 degrees. Hence, although fescue may initiate growth slowly, it still falls well within the parameters for ryegrass-based mixtures such as Value Lawn Seed, Hardwearing Lawn Seed, and Multi-Purpose Lawn Seed.

*Hennessy, Deirdre & Hurtado-Uria, Cristina & Shalloo, Laurence & delaby, luc & Connor, Declan. (2013). Relationships between meteorological data and grass growth over time in the south of Ireland. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/269092361_Relationships_between_meteorological_data_and_grass_growth_over_time_in_the_south_of_Ireland

Posted in: Care & Maintenance, Lawn & Landscaping

Tall Fescue – The most drought tolerant grass

In an era where water scarcity is increasingly prevalent, we often get asked what is the most drought tolerant grass? Among the contenders, tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) has emerged as a robust champion, showcasing its remarkable adaptability and suitability to drought conditions for lawns. This hardy grass species boasts an array of characteristics that make it an ideal choice for maintaining lush and verdant lawns even in times of water scarcity.

Deep Rooting System:

One of the key reasons tall fescue excels in drought conditions is its deep and extensive root system. Unlike shallow-rooted grass species, the roots of tall fescue can penetrate deep into the soil, reaching water sources that are beyond the reach of other grasses. This feature enables tall fescue to access moisture even during extended dry periods, making it more resilient and better equipped to withstand drought stress. The deep-rooted nature of tall fescue not only aids in water uptake but also enhances its overall stability, preventing soil erosion and promoting a healthier lawn ecosystem.

Drought Resistance Mechanisms:

Tall fescue has evolved various physiological and morphological adaptations that allow it to thrive in drought conditions. One of these mechanisms involves reduced water loss through its leaves. The grass possesses narrow leaves with a waxy coating that minimises water transpiration, conserving precious moisture during hot and arid periods. Additionally, tall fescue exhibits a capacity for rapid dormancy during drought stress, temporarily ceasing its growth to conserve energy and resources until more favourable conditions return*.

Heat Tolerance:

Drought often accompanies high temperatures, and tall fescue has demonstrated impressive heat tolerance, making it well-suited for regions prone to both dry spells and scorching summers. The grass species has the ability to maintain its colour and vitality even in the face of elevated temperatures, ensuring a visually appealing lawn throughout the year. Its heat resistance further bolsters its suitability for drought conditions, as it can endure the combined stressors of water shortage and intense heat.

Versatile Growth Habits:

Tall fescue exhibits a clumping growth habit, forming tufts or bunches of grass blades rather than a spreading carpet-like growth pattern. This growth habit is advantageous in drought-prone areas as it reduces competition for water and nutrients among neighbouring grass plants. As a result, tall fescue can better allocate available resources to its individual clumps, enhancing its ability to withstand drought stress and maintain its overall health and appearance.

Low Water Requirement:

One of the most appealing aspects of tall fescue is its relatively low water requirements compared to other common turfgrass species. While it is essential to provide sufficient water to establish the grass initially, once established, tall fescue can thrive with less frequent irrigation. This characteristic is particularly appealing for homeowners and landscapers seeking to conserve water without compromising the beauty and integrity of their lawns.

Adaptability to Various Soils:

Tall fescue exhibits a broad range of soil adaptability, another factor that contributes to its suitability for drought conditions. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, sandy, and loamy soils. This adaptability allows homeowners and landscapers to choose tall fescue for their lawns regardless of the soil composition, making it a versatile and accessible choice for regions with diverse soil profiles.

In conclusion, tall fescue stands out as a resilient and drought-tolerant grass species that is exceptionally well-suited to lawns in regions prone to water scarcity. Its deep root system, drought resistance mechanisms, heat tolerance, versatile growth habits, low water requirements, and adaptability to various soils collectively make it an ideal choice for maintaining lush and verdant lawns even in the face of prolonged drought conditions. By selecting tall fescue for their lawns, individuals can not only enjoy a visually appealing landscape but also contribute to water conservation efforts and promote sustainability in their communities.

Tall Fescue features in our Drought Resistent Dry Soils Grass Seed.

*Saha, Malay & Talukder, Shyamal & Azhaguvel, P. & Mukhergee, S. & Chekhovskiy, Konstantin. (2015). Deciphering Drought Tolerance in Tall Fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.]. 10.1007/978-3-319-08714-6_1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/300756834_Deciphering_Drought_Tolerance_in_Tall_Fescue_Lolium_arundinaceum_Schreb_Darbysh

Posted in: Uncategorized
 Introduction:

The Royal Liverpool Golf Club, fondly known as Hoylake, is steeped in history and renowned as one of the UK’s premier links courses. As the chosen venue for the 2023 Open Championship, meticulous preparation of the greens becomes paramount. To meet the high standards expected by players and spectators alike, a carefully curated blend of three specific grass species has been selected: Browntop Bent (Agrostis capillaris), Slender Creeping Red Fescue (Festuca rubra subsp. litoralis), and Chewings Fescue (Festuca rubra subsp. commutata). This article explores the reasoning behind choosing these grasses and their advantages in maintaining exceptional greens for the upcoming championship.

Chewing's Fescue

Chewing’s Fescue (Festucs rubra commutata)

Slender Creeping Red Fescue

Slender Creeping Red Fescue (festuca rubra litoralis)

The Unique Demands of a Championship Links Course

Royal Liverpool’s links-style golf course earns renown for its fast-running, undulating fairways and challenging bunkers. The greens, a pivotal element in the game, require specific attention. They need to be firm, true-rolling and resilient enough to endure typical foot traffic of a British links course. Optimal playing conditions for the championship hinge crucially on selecting the right grass varieties that thrive in such an environment.

Browntop Bent

Golfers hail Browntop Bentgrass, also known as Colonial Bentgrass, for its fine leaf texture and exceptional putting surface. Its capacity to generate a tightly knit, dense turf facilitates smooth ball roll and true putting lines. Moreover, Browntop Bentgrass demonstrates remarkable drought tolerance and prospers in coastal regions with salt spray, rendering it an excellent choice for the Hoylake course, situated near the Irish Sea. The grass’s stress resistance and adaptability contribute to sustaining the greens throughout the championship.

Browntop Bent

Browntop Bent (Agrostis capilaris

Slender Creeping Red Fescue

Royal Liverpool uses Slender Creeping Red Fescue in its greens. This grass complements Browntop Bentgrass with its attractive, fine-textured appearance, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the greens. Besides its ornamental appeal, this species offers excellent drought resistance and has low nutrient requirements. Its fine, dense growth habit also aids in stabilising the sandy soil typical of links courses. This helps in reducing erosion and ensuring consistent ball roll even in windy conditions.

Chewings Fescue

Completing the trio of grass species is Chewings Fescue, an adaptable cool-season grass renowned for its lush green hue and fine texture. Beyond its contribution to the visual allure of the greens, Chewings Fescue plays a pivotal role in enhancing the putting surface’s resilience. Its deep-rooted nature enables it to access water deeper in the soil, ensuring optimal water utilisation and reducing the risk of drought-induced stress during the championship. Furthermore, its moderate growth rate facilitates easier maintenance, allowing groundskeepers to achieve the desired putting speeds throughout the tournament.

Selecting the Blend

The selection of a specific grass blend for the greens at Royal Liverpool is not a haphazard decision. It demands careful consideration and expertise to create a harmonious combination that brings out the best characteristics of each species while compensating for their weaknesses. The chosen blend, featuring Browntop Bentgrass, Slender Creeping Red Fescue, and Chewings Fescue, achieves the perfect equilibrium between playability, appearance, and sustainability.

An Integrated Approach

Maintaining the greens at their prime condition requires diligent care and preparation. In the months leading up to the championship, the golf course maintenance team will follow a rigorous schedule of mowing, topdressing, and aerating the greens to encourage healthy growth and surface consistency. The team will meticulously monitor moisture levels to ensure adequate hydration without promoting disease.

Championship Standard Greens

The selection of the grasses at Royal Liverpool Golf Club reflects a commitment to providing the best possible playing conditions. This blend balances aesthetics, playability, and sustainability, creating putting surfaces that will challenge the world’s best golfers. The greens at Royal Liverpool Golf Club were elevated to new heights during this landmark event in 2023.

Browntop Bent can be found in our Pure Bent Grass Seed Mixture or as part of a blend with fescues in our Traditional Golf Greens Seed Mixture.