Deschampsia as a Native, Shade Tolerant Turfgrass.

Few grass  species have been characterized as being tolerant of extended periods of shade in cool-season environments.  Once established by seed or sod, the stand often declines over time, eventually leading to a thinning canopy and increased weed pressure.  Tufted hairgrass (Deschampsia caespitosa) has been identified as being tolerant of shade and drought conditions.  Four cultivars of tufted hairgrass (‘Spike’, ‘DCM’, ‘SR6000’, and ‘Shade Champ’) were established along with four cultivars of fine fescue (‘Tiffany’, ‘Boreal’, ‘Berkshire’, and ‘Iverness’), two cultivars of tall fescue (‘Tar Heel II’ and ‘Coyote II’), one cultivar of Kentucky bluegrass (‘HT Dura Blue’) and one cultivar of crested dog’s tail (‘Shade Star’) were established in Oshkosh, Wisconsin  on September 20, 2006.  Plots received no supplemental irrigation during establishment or maintenance.  ‘Spike’, ‘DCM’, and ‘Shade Star’ consistently yielded the highest quality ratings through the 2007 and 2008 growing season, indicating their potential as shade tolerant low-maintenance alternatives to species commonly recommended for shaded turfgrass areas.