Growth of roots, rhizomes, and tillers of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) cultivars and genotypes as affected by fertility level, cutting height, and season

Field experiments were established on July 12, 1971, and April 12 and April 20, 1972, by transplanting various cultivars and genotypes of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.). Objectives were to study effects of fertility level and cutting height on underground growth of various Kentucky bluegrasses during various seasons and develop a technique for measuring underground growth without disturbing the cultivars and genotypes.

Most root growth occurred in late winter and spring, and cultivars and genotypes with high amounts of roots in late spring tend to have a better chance of survival with less maintenance during the summer. Fylking produced more roots in spring and survived under low cutting height better than other cultivars and genotypes. BA6124 produced more roots in summer than any other cultivar and genotype. No cultivar and genotype had the largest underground growth throughout all parameters studied; therefore, blending is recommended to create a desirable bluegrass turf. Techniques used in experiments were adequate.