Transition Herbicide Effects on Overseeded Meadow Fescue and Tetraploid Perennial Ryegrass

Bermudagrass is often overseeded with a cool-season grass species in the fall to provide a green surface during cool weather. Recently, two new turfgrass species, meadow fescue and tetraploid ryegrass, have shown promise for use in overseeding situations. The objective of this study was to determine the performance of herbicides commonly used to remove (transition) perennial ryegrass from an overseeded bermudagrass. Ten herbicides that are commonly used to eradicate diploid perennial ryegrass from overseeded bermudagrass were tested on tetraploid perennial ryegrass and meadow fescue at recommended label rates. Most of the herbicides commonly used to transition diploid perennial ryegrass produced similar results on tetraploid ryegrass, with flazasulfuron providing the best control. Meadow fescue was more easily removed with herbicides compared to ryegrass and is easily removed with lower herbicide application rates. These data will provide turfgrass managers with information regarding herbicide efficacy on new overseeding grasses.