Turfgrass species: Tour: Common and Scientific name:
Perennial ryegrass - Lolium perenne L.
|
Plant characteristics
| Growth Habit | bunch-type |
| Texture | medium |
| Density | medium to high |
| Color | medium to dark green |
Useful identifying Characteristics
| bunch-type growth habit; folded vernation; small auricles; ribbed blade, purple color at base; underside of leaf is glossy. |
Uses
| Generally used in combination with Kentucky bluegrass ( 10 to 20%
perennial rye to 80 to 90% Kentucky bluegrass); rarely used alone; athletic fields; good for overseeding due to rapid germination rate; temporary cover. |
Other Characteristics
| Varieties | Old non-turf types | Improved types |
| Pelo Norlea Linn |
Gator Tara Palmer Prelude Yorktown Elka Barry Pennfine Manhattan Manhattan II Derby Regal Fiesta Blazer |
|
| Seeding Rate | 7 to 9 lb/M | |
Reproduction
| Life cycle | perennial |
| Propagation | seed |
| Seeds/lb | 230,000 |
Adaptation
| Sun/shade | sun to partial shade |
| Soil | loams; wide range of tolerance if good drainage is provided |
| Moisture | moderate; irrigation may be required |
| Mowing height | 1" to 2 1/2" + |
| Fertility | medium 2 to 4 lb N/1000 sq.ft./year |
Special Problems
| Some disease problems; can be difficult to mow; less heat, cold and drought tolerance than Kentucky bluegrass. |