It's known that golf courses are one of your city's most pristine and beautifully landscaped areas. If you want something to do this weekend, head to the country club near you and look around! You'll see that there's more than just greens and fairways. The course is also made up of several different types of grass, each with its unique characteristics. This article will briefly review six common types of grass used on a list of golf courses in Idaho!

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What are the characteristics of grass on a golf course?

The most desirable characteristics of turf grasses are that they withstand the cold or hot weather prevalent in their region and be tough enough to withstand heavy foot traffic without breaking down. It also needs to survive at low levels when cut for maintenance purposes. This can happen using turfgrass with strong roots that can grow back quickly after being cut down.

The grass on a golf course is specifically selected, cultivated, and maintained to provide ideal playing conditions. Each type of grass used is suited to the climate, type of play, and part of the golf course. Here are the key characteristics of grass on a golf course:

1. Grass Type

  • Cool-Season Grasses: These grasses thrive in cooler temperatures and are used in regions with mild summers and cold winters. Examples include:
    • Bentgrass: Fine texture, used on greens for smooth putting surfaces.
    • Kentucky Bluegrass: Dense, durable, often used in fairways and roughs.
    • Perennial Ryegrass: Quick to establish, ideal for overseeding and rough areas.
  • Warm-Season Grasses: These grasses thrive in warmer climates and can tolerate high heat and humidity. Examples include:
    • Bermudagrass: Heat-tolerant, used on fairways, tees, and greens in warm climates.
    • Zoysiagrass: Dense and durable, used for fairways and roughs.
    • Seashore Paspalum: Salt-tolerant, ideal for coastal courses.

2. Texture and Density

  • Fine Texture: Greens typically have fine-textured grass, like Bentgrass, to provide a smooth, fast surface for putting.
  • Medium to Coarse Texture: Fairways and roughs use medium to coarse grass varieties, offering durability and less precision for shots.
  • Dense Grass: Fairways and tees have dense grass to ensure even ball lie and promote good shot-making conditions.

3. Height of Cut

  • Greens: Grass is kept at a very short height (around 1/10th of an inch or lower) to create a smooth, fast rolling surface for putting.
  • Fairways: The grass on fairways is cut slightly higher (typically between 0.5 to 1 inch) to provide a consistent lie for the ball.
  • Roughs: The grass is left longer (1.5 to 4 inches) to increase difficulty, making shots from the rough harder to execute.
  • Tees: The grass on tee boxes is mowed lower than fairways but higher than greens to provide a clean surface for teeing off.

4. Durability and Wear Resistance

  • Golf course grass is selected for its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic, equipment wear, and frequent use.
  • Recovery Ability: Grass like Bermudagrass can recover quickly from wear and damage due to its aggressive growth pattern.
  • Compaction Resistance: Grass needs to tolerate the pressure of foot traffic, especially on greens and fairways, without losing its integrity.

5. Smoothness and Uniformity

  • Consistency in Growth: Greens must have smooth, uniform grass with no patches or uneven growth to ensure putts roll true.
  • Level Surface: Maintenance practices like rolling, topdressing, and aeration ensure that the grass on greens and fairways provides a level playing surface.

6. Drought and Water Tolerance

  • Many courses are moving toward drought-tolerant grasses to reduce water consumption. Warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass are more drought-resistant, requiring less water to maintain.
  • Efficient Irrigation: Golf courses often employ sophisticated irrigation systems to ensure grass receives the right amount of water for optimal growth and health.

7. Disease and Pest Resistance

  • Grass species used on golf courses are often selected for their resistance to common pests and diseases. This reduces the need for chemical treatments and helps maintain a healthy turf year-round.

8. Playability

  • Firmness: The grass is maintained to a degree of firmness that allows the ball to roll and bounce predictably, especially on fairways and greens.
  • Consistency in Ball Response: Grass must provide a consistent playing experience, whether for putting, chipping, or driving. Different sections (greens, fairways, roughs) are managed for specific playability traits.

9. Color and Aesthetics

  • The appearance of the grass is vital for the overall aesthetics of the course. Bright, healthy green color is preferred, though in drought-prone areas, a slightly browner color may indicate more sustainable practices.
  • Striping Patterns: On fairways and greens, mowing in different directions creates visually appealing striping or checkerboard patterns that enhance the look of the course.

10. Seasonal Adaptability

  • Golf course grass must perform well across different seasons, especially in climates with drastic seasonal changes. Cool-season grasses may need overseeding in the winter, while warm-season grasses thrive in summer but might go dormant in colder months.

Is it better to use artificial or natural grass for a golf course?

With the increasing popularity of golf, many golf courses are coming up, with people debating the most suitable turf for their golf course. You can choose to have an artificial turf for golf instead of growing one naturally. Both natural and artificial grass have their pros and cons. Here is a comparison between synthetic and natural grass.

Artificial turf grass

Golf courses that want to save time and money may be interested in the benefits of artificial grass. You'll need to regularly fertilize, mow, water, and otherwise care for the grass if you have natural grass. With synthetic turf grass, though, little maintenance is needed. It only requires a quick clean-up with a hose or leaf blower when necessary. Because it doesn't take time to grow, you may start using it immediately rather than waiting weeks for your lawn to develop, saving money!

Natural turf grass

Natural turfgrass is usually the preferred option for golf courses. People can do this by planting seeds or sod. Keep reading if you're seeking assistance determining the sort of turfgrass to grow!

Choosing between artificial and natural grass for a golf course depends on various factors, including cost, maintenance, environmental concerns, and player experience. Here's a comparison of both options to help determine which is better for specific needs:

1. Player Experience

  • Natural Grass:

    • Provides a more authentic and traditional golf experience.
    • Offers natural ball roll, bounce, and spin on greens and fairways, which players are accustomed to.
    • The feel and aesthetics of real grass are preferred by many golfers, especially for high-end courses.
    • Responds to weather conditions, which adds natural variability and challenge to the game.

  • Artificial Grass:

    • Ball roll and bounce can feel less natural, and golfers may notice a difference in performance, especially on greens.
    • Can be engineered to mimic real grass, but it may not provide the same subtle variations found in natural turf.
    • Often feels less "alive," as it doesn't interact with moisture, wind, or seasonal changes the way natural grass does.

2. Maintenance Requirements

  • Natural Grass:

    • Requires intensive maintenance, including regular mowing, irrigation, fertilizing, pest control, and aeration.
    • Seasonal changes can affect grass quality, meaning more care is needed during dry, hot, or cold weather.
    • Fairways, greens, and roughs require specialized care to keep playing conditions consistent.
    • Frequent reseeding, especially in high-traffic areas, can be labor-intensive and costly.

  • Artificial Grass:

    • Low maintenance compared to natural grass. No mowing, watering, or fertilizing is required.
    • Does not suffer from seasonal changes like drought, cold, or heavy use.
    • Can significantly reduce the need for labor, water, and chemicals.
    • Occasional cleaning and upkeep are needed to remove debris and ensure the surface remains playable.

3. Environmental Impact

  • Natural Grass:

    • Requires substantial water, fertilizers, and pesticides to maintain in optimal condition, leading to potential environmental concerns, especially in water-scarce regions.
    • Provides natural cooling and environmental benefits like carbon absorption, though the upkeep's environmental footprint can offset these benefits.
    • Runoff from chemicals and fertilizers used in maintenance can affect nearby ecosystems, rivers, or lakes.

  • Artificial Grass:

    • Eliminates the need for water, pesticides, and fertilizers, making it more sustainable from a resource perspective.
    • Can contribute to heat island effects in hot climates, as artificial surfaces absorb and radiate heat more than natural grass.
    • Made from synthetic materials, it may pose disposal challenges at the end of its lifespan and can be less environmentally friendly in terms of production and recyclability.

4. Durability and Wear Resistance

  • Natural Grass:

    • Wears out over time, especially in high-traffic areas like tees, greens, and driving ranges.
    • Recovery from damage requires time, reseeding, and careful maintenance.
    • Vulnerable to drought, heavy rainfall, pests, and diseases, which can affect its playability.

  • Artificial Grass:

    • Extremely durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic without wearing out.
    • Ideal for high-use areas like driving ranges or public courses where constant wear and tear is an issue.
    • Not affected by weather or pests, making it more reliable for consistent play throughout the year.

5. Costs

  • Natural Grass:

    • Higher long-term maintenance costs due to regular mowing, watering, pest control, and fertilization.
    • Depending on the climate, irrigation costs can be significant, especially in drought-prone areas.
    • Labor-intensive upkeep adds to the operational costs of maintaining a natural grass golf course.

  • Artificial Grass:

    • High initial installation cost, as artificial turf requires specialized groundwork, drainage systems, and quality materials.
    • Low maintenance costs over time due to the reduced need for water, labor, and chemicals.
    • Longer lifespan (8-15 years depending on the quality) can offset the higher upfront investment.

6. Weather and Climate Considerations

  • Natural Grass:

    • Challenging to maintain in extreme climates (e.g., very hot, cold, or dry regions). Grass can go dormant, turn brown, or die under adverse conditions.
    • Inconsistent playability due to weather changes (rain can make the course muddy, and heat can dry out the grass).

  • Artificial Grass:

    • Unaffected by weather conditions, making it playable year-round regardless of temperature or precipitation.
    • Ideal for regions with extreme climates where maintaining natural grass would be impractical or unsustainable.

7. Aesthetics

  • Natural Grass:

    • The beauty of a well-maintained natural grass course is often unmatched. Real grass has a natural variation in color, texture, and appearance that adds to the charm of a course.
    • Seasonal changes add to the aesthetics, with grass color variations in different seasons.

  • Artificial Grass:

    • Can look artificial, though newer versions are designed to closely resemble natural grass.
    • Provides a uniform appearance throughout the year, but some may find it lacks the natural beauty and variation of real grass.

8. Longevity

  • Natural Grass:
    • With constant care, natural grass can last indefinitely but requires significant maintenance to keep in playable condition.
  • Artificial Grass:
    • Artificial turf generally lasts 8-15 years, depending on usage and quality. After this, it needs to be replaced, which can involve considerable costs.

Best Uses

  • Natural Grass:

    • Preferred for premium golf courses, especially those hosting tournaments and catering to more experienced golfers.
    • Best suited for regions where water is not a limiting factor and where natural grass can thrive with less environmental impact.

  • Artificial Grass:

    • Ideal for driving ranges, mini-golf courses, or public courses that experience heavy traffic and need low maintenance.
    • Suitable for areas where water conservation is critical or where maintaining natural grass would be too costly or impractical due to climate.


Types of golf course grass

Many different types of turf grasses can be grown for golf courses. These varieties depend on the environment and personal choice of how you want your turf to feel and look.

Bermuda grass

Bermuda grass is an excellent choice for golf courses because it can be fertilized easily and withstand foot traffic very well. It can also be mowed relatively low, even shorter than a half-inch, without worrying about damage since it grows back very quickly. It has deep roots and spreads faster than other turfgrass types. However, the downside to Bermuda grass is that it does not grow in colder climates and only thrives in warm environments.
Bermuda grass, scientifically known as Cynodon dactylon, is a popular warm-season turfgrass. Here are some key points about it:
  • Growth and Adaptability: Bermuda grass is known for its rapid growth and resilience. It thrives in warm climates and is highly drought-tolerant.
  • Uses: It’s commonly used for lawns, sports fields, golf courses, and pastures due to its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic.
  • Maintenance: It requires regular mowing, typically to a height of 1 to 1.5 inches. It also benefits from seasonal care, including dethatching, aeration, and fertilization.
  • Invasiveness: While it can create a lush, green lawn, Bermuda grass can also be invasive, spreading quickly and potentially overtaking other plants.
Do you have Bermuda grass in your yard, or are you considering planting it?

Bentgrass

Bentgrass is another good turfgrass choice because it can be cut very low, close to the ground, without damage. This grass withstands foot traffic well and does not need frequent watering. It can also grow in cooler climates, so this may be an option for you if you live in a region with more extreme weather conditions. However, Bentgrass does require a lot of mowing and may not be the best option if you're looking for a low-maintenance turfgrass.
Bentgrass is a perennial, cool-season grass commonly used for golf courses, lawns, and turf in cooler regions. Here are some key points about it:
  • Growth and Spread: Bentgrass spreads by stolons, forming a dense mat with shallow roots. It thrives in cool, moist environments and can tolerate very low mowing.
  • Varieties: There are several types of bentgrass, including Creeping Bentgrass, which is popular on golf course greens due to its fine texture and ability to withstand frequent mowing.
  • Maintenance: Bentgrass requires regular watering, mowing, and fertilizing, especially in warmer climates where it can struggle.
  • Challenges: In hot weather, bentgrass can turn brown and look dead, making it less ideal for regions with high temperatures

Fescue grass

Fescue grasses are great for golf courses because you can mow them very low to the ground. This turfgrass is also placed along the overgrown areas to give the golfer an extra challenge. It also grows in colder climates and forms dense roots that don't allow much foot traffic to penetrate through, preventing damage caused by walking on it.

Fescue grass is a cool-season turfgrass known for its adaptability and resilience. Here are some key points about it:
  • Types: There are several types of fescue grass, including Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue. Tall Fescue is known for its deep roots and coarse texture, making it durable and drought-tolerant. Fine Fescue, on the other hand, has finer blades and is often used in blends for its shade tolerance and low maintenance needs.
  • Growth and Maintenance: Fescue grass is relatively low-maintenance. It can withstand heavy foot traffic and doesn’t require extensive dethatching. However, it may need overseeding during summer months to repair brown patches.
  • Climate Tolerance: Fescue is well-suited for areas with both warm and cool seasons. It can tolerate heat, cold, and drought, making it a popular choice for lawns in transitional climates

Ryegrass

Perennial Ryegrass has a smooth texture, but it may be challenging to grow, requiring frequent mowing. It is usually planted for overseeding thin turfgrass areas, and Its upright growing position pauses offers friction on the greens. Ryegrass can withstand colder temperatures, making it an excellent option for golf courses in cooler areas.

Ryegrass is a cool-season grass known for its rapid growth and versatility. Here are some key points about it:
  • Types: There are two main types of ryegrass: Annual and Perennial. Annual ryegrass is used for temporary cover and quick green-up, while perennial ryegrass is used for permanent lawns and pastures12.
  • Growth and Maintenance: Ryegrass germinates quickly, often within 5-10 days, and establishes rapidly. It requires regular mowing and watering, especially in warmer climates.
  • Climate Tolerance: Ryegrass thrives in cooler climates and can tolerate light shade. However, it may struggle in extreme heat and drought conditions.
  • Uses: It’s commonly used for lawns, sports fields, and pastures. Perennial ryegrass is also popular for overseeding warm-season grasses to maintain a green color during cooler months.

Zoysia grass

Zoysia grass has dense roots, making it great for frequently used golf courses. It also thrives in warmer weather and spreads very quickly once established. The downside is that the Zoysia grass golf course will take longer to develop than other turf types because It is slow-growing.

Zoysia grass is a warm-season turfgrass known for its durability and attractive appearance. Here are some key points about it:
  • Growth and Spread: Zoysia grass spreads through rhizomes and stolons, forming a dense, carpet-like lawn. It has a slow growth rate, which means less frequent mowing.
  • Climate Tolerance: It thrives in warm climates and can tolerate heat, drought, and moderate shade. Zoysia grass also has good cold tolerance, making it suitable for transitional zones.
  • Maintenance: This grass requires less water and fertilizer compared to other warm-season grasses. However, it can develop thatch, so occasional dethatching may be necessary.
  • Appearance: Zoysia grass has a fine to medium texture and turns a beautiful emerald green in the growing season. It goes dormant and turns brown in cooler months

Poa Annua grass

In the list of golf course grasses, it's wise to mention Poa Annual. This type of grass is a winter annual that grows well in cool weather and thrives in shady areas as it spreads quickly due to its tiny seeds. It is also a low-growing grass, so it doesn't need a lot of mowing. However, its invasive nature can make it unpopular in many areas, and it is common mainly on the west coast. Another disadvantage is that Poa Annual grass has a shallow root structure, which means it is less durable than other types of grass.

Poa Annua, also known as annual bluegrass or annual meadow grass, is a common grassy weed. Here are some key points about it:
  • Appearance: Poa Annua is light green with fine-textured leaves and produces seed heads that can be unsightly, especially in the spring12.
  • Growth and Spread: It germinates in late summer to early fall and can grow in clumps. It has shallow roots and can quickly spread across lawns12.
  • Climate Tolerance: This grass thrives in cooler temperatures but tends to die off in the summer heat, leaving brown patches in lawns12.
  • Control Methods: Managing Poa Annua often requires a combination of pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. Pre-emergent herbicides should be applied in the fall before the seeds germinate, while post-emergent herbicides can help control existing plants


Golf courses can grow various types of turf grasses. When choosing the kind of golf course grass, many factors must be considered, including how frequently it will need to be mowed and whether its desired location has colder or warmer weather conditions. The best way to decide which is suitable for your golf course may depend on what you're looking for in terms of maintenance and appearance.