Abstract
In June 1991, a 2-year field study was initiated to examine if three non-turf groundcovers require less irrigation than Kentucky bluegrass (KBG). Irrigation treatments were based on decreasing percentage of évapotranspiration (ET) (100%, 75%, 50%, 25% and 0%). ET was estimated by the modified Penman equation using alfalfa as a reference crop. Plants receiving the 0% irrigation treatment were not irrigated and relied on precipitation for survival. The groundcovers studied were Kentucky bluegrass ‘Challenger’ (Poa pratensis L.), creeping potentilla (Potentilla tabernaemontani Asch.), goldmoss (Sedum acre L.) and snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum L.). Data were collected on visual ratings, growth, soil moisture and canopy temperature. Optimum irrigation for KBG was 50% ET. Cerastium required irrigation at 50%-75% of estimated ET during the initial season (1991) for optimum appearance and growth. During 1992, the plants were better established and 25% ET was optimum. Potentilla required irrigation at the 75% ET rate for optimum visual quality. Sedum maintained a good aesthetic appearance at irrigation rates as low as 25% ET and could be considered as a water-conserving alternative to KBG
Author notes
This paper is based on a thesis submitted by David Staats as partial fulfillment of a Master of Science Degree. This research was supported in part by Colorado Agriculture Experiment Station, project 713.
2Graduate Research Assistant.
3Professor of Horticulture.