The Adoption of Low-Input Turfgrasses in the Midwestern US: The Case of Fine Fescues and Tall Fescue

Fine fescues (Festuca spp.) and tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus) are low-input turfgrass species that perform well under less water, pesticides, fertilizers when compared to commonly cultivated in the Midwestern US. There numerous benefits increasing use of turfgrasses: lowering resource usage, reducing maintenance costs, improving landscape aesthetic, contributing residents’ health general wellbeing. However, market share these grasses requires an understanding what influences buyers purchase turfgrasses. These usually purchased by consumers as seed; however, sod is a preferred method establishment for many professional end users. To better understand economic potential sod, we surveyed (landscapers, golf courses, sports turf managers) who 2020 investigate (1) factors impacting them turfgrasses, (2) influencing quantity The results from our model showed larger businesses most likely and, once they them, tend acquire amount than their smaller counterparts. Landscaping were more such availability, distance, drought, shade tolerance impacted decision Finally, density, ability directly grower, availability turfgrasses purchased.