Irrigation frequency requirements for sufficient warm‐season species quality in Florida

Abstract Periodic drought and shortage of potable water have led many municipalities in Florida to set limitations and restrictions on irrigation frequency for home lawns. These restrictions do not take into account turfgrass health and response and may be inappropriate across different species and cultivars; hence, there is a need to identify genotypes that could sustain quality and performance under reduced irrigation. A study was conducted at the University of Florida Plant Science Research and Education Unit in Citra, FL, to assess turfgrass response of 10 bermudagrass ( Cynodon spp.), nine zoysiagrass ( Zoysia spp.), and five seashore paspalum ( Paspalum vaginatum Swartz) cultivars to different irrigation regimes, consisting of non‐irrigated control (Rainfed), soil moisture sensor (SENSOR)‐based (up to 152 mm mo −1 ) , 8X per month (8XMO up to 152 mm mo −1 ), 4X per month (4XMO up to 76 mm mo −1 ), 2X per month (2XMO up to 38 mm mo −1 ), and 1X per month (1XMO up to 19 mm mo −1 ). Plots were evaluated for turfgrass quality and percent green cover using digital image analysis every 3 days over a 22‐month period. Bermudagrass was able to sustain acceptable turfgrass quality during one of the growing seasons when irrigated 4XMO, showing substantial water savings compared to the other two species. SENSOR irrigation significantly reduced water consumption for all the three species and produced turfgrass quality similar to 8XMO irrigation. Results indicate that selecting the right cultivar for the area could help sustain turfgrass aesthetic and functionality.