Grass identification

This class will provide delegates with practical identification of the main grass species used in amenity turf. It will cover plant morphology, growth habit and key identifying features of amenity grasses as well as the selection of the correct species and cultivars for specific sports and amenity uses. You will learn what different characteristics amenity grasses display and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different species. The class will look at why specific species of grass are used for certain sports and what the best grasses are for use on a golf course.

Learning outcomes:

• Identify grasses used in amenity surfaces
• Identify key morphological features of grass plants
• Distinguish individual grass plants within mixed turf
• Select the correct species for intended use
• Select the best cultivars of species for specific use
• Understand the process of selecting grasses

Presented by:

Fiona Crossley

Senior Trials Officer STRI

Fiona has worked on the grass testing programme at STRI for over 27 years.  Fiona manages and runs the BSPB grass testing trials, which provide data for the annually published Turfgrass Seed booklet. Fiona has also designed, managed, and run a wide range of contract trials for a variety of clients including trials for the French grass testing system.