Changing Bentgrass Greens to 'Mini Verde' Bermuda

Change Rationale

• Changing grass varieties requires cost and effort at any time, so the new grass must outperform the old variety. "Mini Verde" and other, similar Bermuda grasses are better adapted to warm climates than bentgrass. Bermuda also is more tolerant of heavy, clay soils. The Bermuda varieties are likely to increase putting or playing speed by creating a thick, ultra low-growing playing area, over which balls or feet move faster. In large-scale lawn applications, where maintenance may be casual, bentgrass tends to become straggly. "Mini Verde" is also a darker green than most bentgrasses.

No Till Preparation

• The first step in no-till turf conversion is to kill the existing bentgrass. This is usually done with an herbicide containing glyphosate. While the herbicide is working, some property owners take maintenance steps like aeration, riddling the surface with holes to aerate the root zone. Other steps might include removing built-up thatch -- dried and living plant material intermingled with existing turf -- and topdressing the turf area with fertilizer. Alternately, the bentgrass layer may be physically removed using a sharp spade to carve out and remove grass strips.

"Mini Verde" Installation

• "Mini Verde" and similar Bermuda grasses are usually installed in the form of plugs or sprigs, rather than being seeded or sodded. If glycophosphate herbicide has been used to kill bentgrass, wait at least three days to install "Mini Verde" plugs. Whatever the removal method, prepare the ground by creating an even grid of small holes for the plugs. Install plugs by hand, to ensure even coverage and proper planting technique. Regular irrigation, often on a daily basis, is needed until the grass takes root and becomes established.

Conversion Considerations

• All turf surfaces, especially home putting greens require grooming, fertilization, irrigation and regular mowing. When used for playing/recreation surfaces, grasses like "Mini Verde," may increase turf usage over time, creating a need for greater maintenance. The no-till method of installation reduces the time required to refurbish turf, by creating little surface disturbance. However, it is not a solution for underlying drainage problems. No-till installation should not be used if the lawn or putting green surface is being redesigned, with changed topography. Before installation, the soil should be tested for root nematodes that damage turfgrass by destroying roots.