Evaluation of Sedges and Nimblewill as Low-input, Shaded Lawns in Oklahoma, USA

Consumers desire low-input turfgrasses that have tolerance to both shade and drought stresses. Several sedges ( Carex sp.) nimblewill Muhlenbergia schreberi ) are native plants prevalent in dry woodland ecosystems Oklahoma, USA, may potential as alternatives conventional species shaded turfgrass systems. To evaluate selected for this purpose, a multilocation field trial was conducted Stillwater Perkins, OK. Four [gray sedge amphibola ), Leavenworth’s leavenworthii ‘Little Midge’ palm muskingumensis Texas texensis )] were evaluated alternative turfs the study. Alternative compared against two [‘El Toro’ Japanese lawngrass Zoysia japonica ‘Riley’s Super Sport’ bermudagrass Cynodon dactylon )]. The outperformed each coverage turf quality. sedge, gray persisted well but did not spread quickly enough achieve dense canopy by end of 2-year trial. In contrast, established declined over time. This study demonstrated some can be maintained shade, development unique management practices is still required acceptable performance.