What Is kentucky Bluegrass?

Kentucky bluegrass, a cool season grass, is actually a species native to Europe, Asia, Algeria and, Morocco. However, even though this species isn't native to the United States, it is grown all over the East Coast, and can also be grown in the west with irrigation.

Information on Kentucky Bluegrass

What Does Kentucky Bluegrass Appear Like?

At maturity, Kentucky bluegrass is about 20-24 inches tall. It may be recognized fairly very easily simply because of its “V” shaped leaves. Its rhizomes let it to spread and generate new grass plants. Kentucky bluegrass rhizomes grow really speedily and form a thick sod inside the spring.

You'll find over one hundred cultivars of this grass and most shops promoting grass seeds will have a range to choose from. Bluegrass seed is also regularly sold mixed with other grass seeds. This may provide you with a more balanced lawn.

Planting Kentucky Bluegrass

The best time to plant Kentucky bluegrass seed is in the fall when the soil temperatures are between 50-65 degrees F. The soil needs to become warm sufficient for germination and root improvement in order that it's going to survive by way of the winter. You can plant Kentucky bluegrass on its own or combine many varieties for any diverse blend.

Kentucky Bluegrass as Forage Crop

Kentucky bluegrass is at times used for grazing livestock. If permitted to develop properly, it may withstand low grazing. Due to the fact of this, it does well as a grazing crop when mixed with other cool season grasses.

Kentucky Bluegrass Maintenance

Since this can be a cool season grass, it demands at least two inches of water per week to keep it healthy, growing, and green. If your area gets significantly less water than this, it will be necessary to irrigate. If irrigation is required, the turf ought to be watered in small amounts everyday as opposed to after per week in large amounts. In the event the grass does not get sufficient water, it may go dormant within the summer months.

Kentucky bluegrass will do a lot better when nitrogen is applied. In the first year of growing, 6 pounds per 1000 square feet may be needed. Years after, 3 pounds per 1000 square feet should be adequate. Significantly less nitrogen may be required in areas with rich soil.

Typically, if weeds are permitted to grow, Kentucky bluegrass lawns is going to be covered in dandelions, crabgrass, and clover. The best form of control is using a pre-emergent herbicide on lawns annually. The best time to do this can be in the early spring before weeds are noticeable.

Mowing Kentucky Bluegrass Lawns

Young grass does best when kept at a 2-inch height. It must be mowed just before it ever reaches 3 inches. Grass should never ever be mowed lower than this because it would cause young seedlings to be pulled up and ruin the overall health of the lawn.