Bentgrass (Agrostis spp.) in Grass Montana

Description

Bentgrass (Agrostis spp.) is a fine-textured grass known for its lush appearance, dense growth habit, and ability to tolerate low mowing heights.

Description:

• Appearance: Bentgrass forms a dense, uniform turf with fine-textured, bright green leaves. It has a creeping growth habit, spreading by above-ground stolons and below-ground rhizomes.
• Growth Habit: Bentgrass has a low, prostrate growth habit, making it well-suited for putting greens, fairways, and other areas where a close-cut turf is desired.
• Height: Typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1.5 inches when unmowed, but can be maintained shorter with regular mowing.
• Adaptability: Bentgrass is well-suited for cool climates and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is often used on golf courses, tennis courts, and other sports fields.

Planting Instructions:

1. Timing: Bentgrass is best planted in early fall or early spring when temperatures are cooler and soil moisture is adequate. Avoid planting during hot, dry periods.
2. Site Selection: Choose a planting site with full sun to partial shade exposure and well-drained soil. Bentgrass prefers fertile, loamy soil with good water retention.
3. Soil Preparation: Prepare the planting area by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches to promote good root growth.
4. Soil pH: Bentgrass prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend the soil as needed to achieve the optimal pH level
5. Seedbed Preparation: Rake the soil to create a smooth, level surface. Firm the soil lightly with a roller to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
6. Seeding Rate: Bentgrass is typically seeded at a rate of 1 to 2 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet for new lawns.
7. Seed Distribution: Divide the seed into two equal portions and broadcast half of the seed in parallel rows in one direction. Then broadcast the remaining seed in rows perpendicular to the first.
8. Covering the Seed: Lightly rake the soil to cover the seed to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Avoid burying the seed too deeply, as it may inhibit germination.
9. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which typically takes 7 to 10 days.
10. Establishment: Once the grass reaches a height of 0.5 to 1 inch, gradually reduce watering frequency to encourage deep root growth.
11. Mowing: Begin mowing when the grass reaches a height of 0.5 to 1 inch. Set the mower to a height of 0.25 to 0.5 inch and mow regularly to maintain the desired height.

Maintenance:

• Fertilization: Bentgrass requires regular fertilization to maintain its lush appearance. Apply a balanced fertilizer according to soil test recommendations.
• Watering: Provide supplemental irrigation during dry periods to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
• Weed Control: Bentgrass establishes slowly and may be susceptible to weed invasion during the establishment phase. Hand-pull or spot-treat any weeds that may emerge.
• Thatch Control:Bentgrass lawns may develop thatch buildup over time, especially in high-traffic areas. Core aerating and dethatching can help improve soil aeration and water infiltration.