Creeping bentgrass
agrostis stolonifera
Also known as: ["Creeping bent","Creeping bent grass"]
Overview
A perennial grass species known for its creeping growth habit and fine-textured leaves, often used in lawns and golf course greens.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Agrostis |
| Botanical Name: | Agrostis stolonifera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: lawn, golf course fairways, or ornamental ground cover in temperate regions
- 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: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring before new growth begins; light trimming as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with protection from intense midday sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide dappled shade during peak summer heat; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in intense sun; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot; adjust based on weather and soil conditions.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Avoid compacted soil; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler climates but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; monitor for heat stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize in spring before active growth; water before and after application; reduce in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stolon division or stem cuttings; division is more reliable for rapid establishment.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide stolons.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant and water.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when temperatures are moderate and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water for cuttings.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting of cuttings.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; keep cuttings moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Mow or shear for even cuts; hand-prune for selective removal of damaged or weak stems.
Pruning Plan
Focus on maintaining density and removing dead or weak growth to encourage vigorous new shoots.
Tools
Sharp shears, mower, or hand pruners; clean tools before use.
Checklist
Remove dead/damaged growth; thin overcrowded areas; shape as desired; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture distribution for uniform growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency in hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in excessive heat; frost damage or slowed growth in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to winterkill in severe cases.
Solution: Provide winter mulch for insulation; move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor due to excessive water loss.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply at recommended rate; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply lightly every 6–8 weeks during growing season; avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAgrostis stolonifera is not considered toxic to cats. It is a non-hazardous grass species that is safe for feline interaction.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAgrostis stolonifera is not considered toxic to dogs. It is a non-hazardous grass species that is safe for canine interaction.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAgrostis stolonifera, commonly known as creeping bentgrass, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a common grass species often used in lawns and golf courses.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is creeping bentgrass suitable for home lawns?
A: Yes, it is often used for lawns due to its fine texture and ability to form a dense turf.
Q: How does creeping bentgrass spread?
A: It spreads through stolons (above-ground runners) and rhizomes (underground stems).
Q: Does creeping bentgrass require a lot of maintenance?
A: It requires moderate maintenance, including regular mowing and occasional fertilization.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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