Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Stolons
Tiller
Crown
Fig. 1.10. Stolons grow above ground, continuously producing new plants.
(Drawing by R. Castro.)
mother plant, can grow independently as new plant individuals. Stolons,
on the other hand, are green, carry out photosynthesis, and creep above
the ground in all directions, continuously forming new nodes. Mature
nodes initiate new roots that anchor them to the soil when adequate
moisture is present.
As a direct result of their growth habit, stoloniferous species such as
St Augustine grass and centipede grass are easy to control along flower-
beds, kerbs, etc. Periodic trimming of stolons prevents their encroach-
ment into planters and similar areas. In contrast, rhizomatous species
such as cynodon and zoysia grass can grow under kerbs or other shallow
barriers. Planters or flowerbeds surrounded by these turfs are quite
difficult to maintain. Appropriate growth habit is therefore a deciding
factor in selection of turf-grass species in landscape areas. Rhizomatous
species or species that produce both rhizomes and stolons are superior in
areas subjected to frequent damage. Athletic fields should incorporate
these types of turf, because otherwise bare spots are very slow to repair
themselves. Stoloniferous species may require the overseeding or trans-
planting of large sections of turf (sod) from other areas.
Roots
Roots also play an essential role in the life of the turf-grasses. Purely
mechanically, roots anchor the plant in the soil. In addition, roots absorb
