The condition and type of golf grass is very important for the game. Other features like water features, elevation and sand traps may define the golf course. But the grass on the fairway and greens is very critical to the quality of the golf course. Golf is played in all climates and all seasons. There is no any single grass that works best for all fairways. The architects of the golf course look for golf grass that will hold up well through weather in the particular season and particular season. The different types of golf grass are discussed below.
Bermuda Grass
It is used in places where the summers are hot and humid. This grass has very fine blades and drought tolerant. It can be mowed less than an inch and repairs easily. It may be used along with rye grass in cold weather and to maintain color.
Blue Grass
It is a cool weather grass and used commonly on fairways with moderately cool climates. Blue grass spreads laterally to fill divots. It can tolerate some shade and must be mowed above 1 inch to avoid any damage. It does not hold up well to foot traffic and is very susceptible to diseases.
Rye grass
It is a cool weather grass and can withstand foot traffic. Ryegrass is tolerant to shade. It can be mowed to ½ inch and remain hardy. It does not spread easily and hence filling divots is very critical. This grass has the tendency to thin out during summers. Since it is perennial, it is used in combination with blue grass and it is ideal for mid American fairways.
Zoysia
This grass is deep rooted and low maintenance grass. It is good for cool climates. Since, it is a tough grass, it can tolerate heat and cold. The irrigation requirement of this grass is very less. It turns brown during October to April and establishes slowly in colder climates.
St. Augustine Grass
This is a warm season grass and is usually planted on golf course greens and around the tees. It is coarse textured and needs moderate care. Some varieties are fine textured. These are more commonly used in golf courses with hot summers and high humidity levels.
Various combinations are also used instead of a single type of golf grass. This way, the benefits of both the grasses can be reaped as per the season and requirement.
