Common Bent
agrostis capillaris
Also known as: ["Bentgrass","Brown Top"]
Overview
A fine-leaved, tufted grass species commonly found in lawns, pastures, and golf courses.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Agrostis |
| Botanical Name: | Agrostis capillaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: lawn, golf course fairways, or ornamental grass beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Loamy, fertile soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Mow regularly during the growing season, typically every 1–2 weeks.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove no more than one-third of the leaf blade length at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–7.0.
Test soil pH annually; amend as needed; ensure consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; adjust watering in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; apply before new growth begins; water after fertilizing to distribute nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stolon division or seed sowing; division is faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into smaller sections.
- Plant divisions at the same depth.
- Water well.
- Or sow seeds shallowly and keep moist.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added sand or perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seed germination to encourage faster rooting.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: 2–4 weeks for germination, 3–6 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or spade, pots, well-draining soil mix, watering can.
Quick Tips
Divide in early growth phase; use clean tools to prevent disease; keep seedlings consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Mowing with a sharp blade; hand trimming for edges or small patches.
Pruning Plan
Focus on maintaining a dense, healthy turf; remove dead or damaged growth to encourage new shoots.
Tools
Lawn mower, string trimmer, hand shears.
Checklist
Check blade sharpness; mow at correct height; remove clippings; avoid mowing wet grass.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current container; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; if grown in containers, repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to disease.
Solution: Provide frost protection, ensure good air circulation, and avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and the plant may become stressed or dormant.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at recommended rate; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAgrostis capillaris is not toxic to cats. This grass species is safe for cats to ingest or come into contact with, as it is commonly found in lawns and does not pose any health risks.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicAgrostis capillaris is not toxic to dogs. This grass species is commonly found in lawns and is safe for dogs to graze on or come into contact with.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicAgrostis capillaris, commonly known as common bentgrass, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a widely used grass species in lawns and golf courses and does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Common Bent suitable for lawns?
A: Yes, it is often used in lawn mixes for its fine texture and ability to form a dense turf.
Q: Does Common Bent require much maintenance?
A: It is relatively low maintenance but may need occasional mowing and fertilization to thrive.
Q: Can Common Bent grow in shaded areas?
A: Yes, it is shade-tolerant and can grow in partially shaded conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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