| What do you know about the new no mow grass or once a month mow - sometimes referred to as bellagio? or dwarf fescue? What is the common name, varietal name? What does it look like and where can you get it? |
| The turfgrass you've heard about is marketed under the name Bonsai Dwarf Fescue. It's a durable, lower-growing, tall fescue that features a deep green color, fine texture and extremely dwarf growth. Developed by Dr. Fred Ledeboer of KWS research farms, Bonsai retains a deep root system and requires less water, less maintenance and less mowing while producing fewer clippings. It has an overall appearance of Kentucky Bluegrass. Double dwarf fescue means that Bonsai is a low, slow-growing grass. It doesn't need to be mowed as often as the other grasses. Bonsai produces fewer clippings, which reduces green wastes. Clippings can also be easily composted when left on the lawn. Double dwarf fescues adapt well to all climate conditions (except for high altitude) and all soil types; prefers pH range from 5.5 to 6.5 but tolerates 4.7 to 8.5; requires two applications of balanced fertilizer per year to maintain luxurious green turf without excess growth. Recommended mowing height of 1 to 1-1/2 inches, can be increased to 2-1/2 inches in hot weather to reduce water usage. Grass seed should be available from most west coast nurseries. |
