S3 E35 Which Turfgrass Uses the Least Water? Surprising Results from Oregon Research

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, we dive into a study from Oregon State University that looked at how turfgrass species and mowing height affect water requirements in western Oregon. The results might surprise you—tall fescue and perennial ryegrass significantly outperformed fine fescues when it came to conserving water.

We’ll break down the data on evapotranspiration replacement, irrigation intervals, and how mowing height can influence your watering schedule. Should you mow higher? Should you convert to tall fescue? This video gives you practical, science-backed guidance on how to choose and manage turfgrasses for water conservation.

📄 Paper discussed: Blankenship et al. (2020), Water Requirements Influenced by Turfgrass Species and Mowing Height in Western Oregon

💧 Learn how this research can help you irrigate less without sacrificing turf quality.
🌱 Understand why fine fescues aren’t always the drought champions they’re marketed to be.
📏 Discover how mowing height makes a measurable difference in water demand.

🔔 Subscribe to Turfgrass Epistemology for more turf science and myth-busting insights.

Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join

Voicemail:
859-444-4234

Apple Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379

Spotify Podcast
https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI

iHeart Radio Podcast
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/

Podbean
https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/

Online consulting
Calendly.com/TravisShaddox

Twitter
Twitter.com/TravisShaddox

Email
TravisShaddox@gmail.com

Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:
https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf