Drought Testing. Which Grass Uses the Least Water?

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, we analyze a pivotal field study that tested the drought resistance and irrigation needs of five common turfgrass species under real-world conditions in northern Texas. Using a unique linear gradient irrigation system, Qian and Engelke evaluated how ‘Tifway’ bermudagrass, ‘Meyer’ zoysiagrass, ‘Rebel II’ tall fescue, ‘Prairie’ buffalograss, and ‘Nortam’ St. Augustinegrass performed under a wide range of watering regimes—from excess irrigation to complete reliance on rainfall.

What did they find? Not all turfgrasses respond the same way to drought—or to overwatering. Some thrived under low water input, while others demanded more than expected. We’ll explore which species held up under stress, which became disease-prone when overwatered, and what this means for water-conscious turf managers today.

If you're a turfgrass professional, a researcher, or just someone trying to maintain a healthy lawn with less water, this episode will give you real insight into how turf performance and water use intersect in the field—not just in the greenhouse.

Turfgrass science, evidence-based management, and no gimmicks. Let’s dig in.

#TurfgrassScience #DroughtResistance #IrrigationResearch #TurfManagement #SoilScience #WaterConservation #LawnCare #TurfgrassEpistemology

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Article: https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/34/5/article-p893.pdf

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