Winter survival of experimental bermudagrasses in the upper transition zone of the U.S.

Abstract

AbstractWinter survival is the limiting factor in developing new bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) cultivars for use in the transition zone. Part of the turfgrass breeding focus at Oklahoma State University (OSU) for years has been working on the development of bermudagrasses with improved cold hardiness and turfgrass quality. The objective of this study was to compare new experimental bermudagrasses to commercial cultivars for winter survival in Manhattan, Kansas (39.1836 degrees north latitude). Sixty advanced breeding lines were maintained at a 12 mm mowing height to simulate golf and sports turf management conditions. Data were collected on spring green up, considered an indicator of winter injury, in 2017, 2018, and 2019. Eight experimental selections were in the top statistical group in 2018 and 2019. In each year, several experimental selections were superior in spring green up to all other improved cultivars, including ‘Latitude 36 Turf Bermudagrass’, ‘Northbridge Turf Bermudagrass’, and ‘DT‘1’ in spring green up. Breeding efforts at OSU continue to produce improved bermudagrasses; one or more elite selections may be released with improved cold hardiness.