Groundskeepers choose Bermuda grass for golf courses in warm U.S. climates.
Common Bermuda grass is drought resistant and grows in many soils. It makes a good turf and is often planted on sports fields, parks and golf courses. Bermuda grass grows in more than 100 different countries in the tropical and subtropical areas of the world. It has become naturalized through the warmer regions of the United States and was introduced to this country in the colonial period from either Africa or India. Does this Spark an idea?
Germination
Germination is the process by which a plant or fungus emerges from its seed or spore and begins to grow. Bermuda grass can take three days to germinate, or it can take three weeks, depending on conditions. Quicker germination takes place when the soil is moist and warm, it is watered frequently, and temperatures are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The shoots that come from the seed have fine white roots.
Blade Growth
Within 10 to 12 days after germination, tiny green shoots and the first young grass blades are visible. These first roots are very small and delicate. It's important not to disturb them with heavy use of the grass or strong streams of water. It will take three to eight weeks for the lawn to fill in to become a blanket of soft green blades. The roots will have developed a stronger hold by becoming thicker and more deeply embedded in the soil. The roots will go into the soil approximately 3 to 7 inches.
Rhizome and Stolon Development
Bermuda grass replicates via rhizomes and stolons. The rhizome is the main stem of the plant and is usually horizontal. The stolon is another type of root that sprouts from an existing root system. These roots spread from the parent plant and colonize new areas with baby grass. They work in tandem and are the reason why Bermuda grass is hearty and difficult to eradicate when it is unwanted.
Seed Head Development
The final stage of berumda grass development comes when the roots are well developed. Tall, thin propeller-shaped seed heads will crop up in the summer and early fall. The seed heads will be detached from the grass by the wind, which will carry them away to germinate and grow new grass provided that the seeds land in correct soil and temperature conditions. If you want to control the growth of your Bermuda grass, you should mow it frequently. This will ensure that the seed heads don't over populate your property with grass.
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