Agrostis stolonifera

Cool-season perennial grass

Active growth during spring and fall; may exhibit reduced growth or stress during hot summer months

Aim for at least 6 hours of sun daily, but tolerate light shade

50–65°F (10–18°C)

Well-drained, moist, and fertile soils

3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Seeds germinate within 7 to 15 days under optimal conditions

5.5–6.5, but it can adapt to higher pH levels

Requires consistent moisture due to its shallow root system. Frequent, light watering to maintain moisture

Apply 4 to 6 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet annually, divided throughout the growing season

Spreads via stolons, forming a dense, low-growing turf

If left unmowed can reach up to 12 inches, however, it is typically maintained at below 0.5 inches

Aggressively spreads through stolons, covering ground rapidly

1 to 2 pounds per 1,000 square feet for lawns

Produces inconspicuous flower spikes in late spring to early summer

Provides dense cover for small mammals and birds

Lawn and turf grass, forage for large animals, hay, gardens, landscapes, and golf course putting greens

Typically used as a monoculture due to its aggressive growth habit, not commonly mixed with other grass species

Frequent mowing to maintain the desired height, typically kept at 0.1 to 0.5 inches for golf courses

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Susceptible to insects such as cutworms, sod webworms, and white grubs

Prone to diseases like dollar spot, brown patch, and pythium blight, especially under humid conditions

Despite its advantages on golf courses, Creeping Bentgrass is often considered a weed in home lawns due to its invasive nature and high maintenance requirements