Response of Retail Lawn Seed Products during Acute Drought and Recovery

Consumers often have multiple choices when purchasing retail lawn products in stores. In this study, we evaluated the acute drought performance of locally available seed (mixtures or blends) at two mowing heights 2.5 and 3 inches. We hypothesized that species present height-of-cut differentially influence resistance recovery mixtures blends. Fall 2016 2017, 28 different consisting 25 blends turfgrass seeds were established under a fully automated rainout shelter St. Paul campus University Minnesota. The treatments lasted for 67 days 52 2018; both 2017 2018 followed by period. Data obtained during periods visual quality green cover using digital images plots. During first year, several displayed higher stability (or ability to remain green) 3-inch compared with 2.5-inch height-of-cut. Products tall fescue ( Schedonorus arundinaceus ) fine Festuca sp.) as dominant generally performed better treatments, whereas an increasing presence perennial ryegrass Lolium perenne kentucky bluegrass Poa pratensis decreased products. period, effect interaction between height date data collection on percentage was observed: lower improved early after drought. These findings suggest consumers upper midwestern United States areas climate similar Paul, MN, who are challenged should choose containing content adjust their optimize recovery.