2019 ASHS Annual Conference

Landscape water conservation continues to be critical strategy for securing future water demands, especially in locations experiencing frequent droughts. Water users’ inability to characterize drought stress related to plant health can result in inappropriate use of water during drought conditions. St. Augustinegrass (SA) [Stenotaphum secundatum (Walt.) Kutnze] is a widely used warm-season turfgrass found throughout the southern United States. Data comparing SA cultivar’s performance during extended drought stress conditions and recovery is limited, and existing results are from late summer and fall conditions in full sun. Cultivars Delmar, Floratam, Palmetto, Raleigh, and Tamstar were evaluated in a consecutive 60-day drought in spring 2018 in full sun and 50% shade. Following drought, turf were evaluated during a 60-day recovery period. Using a rating system, drought response and recovery will be quantified every 7-10 days as turfgrass quality (1-9; 9=best). All cultivars in 50% shade treatment, except Tamstar, were in acceptable condition (>6.0) at the end of 60 day drought in 2018. Imposition of drought and recovery from drought are evaluated again in spring/summer 2019. Results may have significant impact on both turfgrass cultivar recommendations and landscape irrigation behaviors.