| (Find out more at a Water Efficient Landscapes Workshop)
Turfgrass is one of the most versatile and functional plants in the landscape. It provides one of the best recreational surfaces for outdoor activities. From a water management standpoint, turf is recognized as one of the most effective plant covers to reduce runoff and erosion while recharging the ground water, which results in more efficient use of rainfall.
Turf has a tremendous mitigating effect on the environment. For example, research documents that a turf area can be as much as 30°F cooler than a concrete or asphalt surface and 10°F to 14°F cooler than bare soil. This cooling effect from the average lawn is equal to more than eight tons of air conditioning; the average home central-air unit produces three to four tons. Turf also absorbs dust and other air pollutants and produces oxygen. However, in the typical landscape, turfgrass occupies the largest area and, when managed incorrectly, receives the largest amount of irrigation. You can realize considerable water savings by irrigating only the turf in high impact, highly visible areas of the landscape.
All turfgrasses recommended for Georgia can be used in any water-use zone and can survive most droughts without supplemental irrigation once they are established. During drought periods, a healthy turfgrass will wilt and turn brown, then regain its normal color and growth when it receives adequate water. You must be willing to accept a loss of quality and appearance during periods of limited rainfall when growing turf in nonirrigated areas of the landscape.
Maximum water conservation with turf is obtained through proper selection, establishment and maintenance. In addition to differing in appearance, turfgrasses differ in their tolerance to environmental factors such as shade, temperature, soil fertility, water use and drought resistance. Water use is based on the user’s adhering to recommended irrigation practices. Drought resistance is important when growing turfgrass in nonirrigated areas. The turfgrasses listed would survive most droughts in Georgia.
Practical turf areas mean using turfgrass for a specific function in the landscape. A small "oasis" of turf near the entrance to the home, a playing surface of durable turf in recreational areas or a blanket of turf on a highly erodible slope are all examples of "practical" turf areas. Also, design turf in practical shapes that can be efficiently irrigated and maintained. Avoid sharp angles and long narrow strips that are difficult to mow and water.
Remember, the goal in developing a water-wise landscape is to reduce the need for supplemental irrigation, regardless of whether in turf or in ornamental areas of the landscape. As irrigated space decreases, water savings increase.
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