Due to the overwhelming response we’ve received from Zach Schmaedeke’s article on Turf Talk, Zinniaboy.com will continue our series on turf. We’ll keep it rolling by introducing Zach’s latest post on Tahoma 31 Bermudagrass.
Turf Talk Tuesday: Tahoma 31 Bermudagrass.
Introduction to Tahoma 31
Tahoma 31 is a unique variety of Bermudagrass that stands out for its ability to thrive in colder temperatures—something that sets it apart from many other warm-season grasses. While typical Bermudagrasses struggle to survive in regions where winter temperatures regularly fall below freezing, Tahoma 31 demonstrates remarkable winter hardiness. This resilience enables it to grow successfully in USDA hardiness zones 6b to 10, extending its growing season and maintaining a vibrant green appearance for a longer period compared to other Bermudagrass varieties.
Heat and Drought Tolerance
In addition to its cold tolerance, Tahoma 31 excels in hot and drought-prone environments. It uses up to 60% less water than Kentucky Bluegrass, making it an ideal choice for regions facing water scarcity. Furthermore, Tahoma 31 requires less frequent irrigation compared to many other warm-season grasses, making it a low-maintenance option for water-conscious homeowners and businesses.
Applications and Use Cases
Residential Lawns: With its fine texture, rich color, and aesthetic appeal, Tahoma 31 is a top choice for homeowners seeking a high-quality, low-maintenance lawn.
Sports Fields and Athletic Surfaces: Tahoma 31s durability and ability to recover quickly from heavy traffic make it increasingly popular for use on sports fields and athletic complexes. It is particularly well-suited for sports like football, soccer, and golf, where durability and rapid recovery are essential. Its low maintenance requirements and resilience under wear make it a reliable choice for high-performance turf areas.
Considerations and Limitations
While Tahoma 31 offers numerous benefits, it may not be suitable for all environments. In cooler climates, it typically greens in early summer and becomes dormant by early fall, which can result in an off-season period where the grass is not green. Additionally, Tahoma 31 struggles in shaded areas and higher elevations. It also thrives best in sandy soils, which can present challenges in regions with clay-heavy soils, such as parts of Colorado. Tahoma 31 is a good choice for a low maintenance, low water and cold climate regions. Cheers
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