How to Grow Plugs of Bentgrass

Clear the land where you will plant the bentgrass plugs. Debris, such as rocks and stumps may impede root growth and cause problems when you mow. Use an herbicide containing glyphosate to kill stubborn weeds.

Add 2 inches of sand and 2 inches of compost to the topsoil. Blend the amendments into the top 4 inches of soil.

Use a rake to slope the soil away from the house or other structure. Specialists with the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management System recommend a 2 percent slope.

Water the top 10 inches of soil and allow it to drain. Check for low spots where the soil settles after watering and rake the soil to even it out.

Use a garden trowel or a dibber to create holes for the plugs. Space them 6 to 12 inches apart, in a checkerboard pattern.

Sprinkle plug starter fertilizer in the holes. Commercial plug fertilizers generally include a scoop that, when full, holds the appropriate amount of fertilizer.

Set the bentgrass plugs into the holes and fill in around them with soil. Use your hands to press down on the plug to ensure good soil contact.

Water the bentgrass plugs enough to moisten their tops and then water daily to a depth of 6 inches until the bentgrass is established. This generally occurs within six to eight weeks.