Newly introduced salt-tolerant grass mixtures show great promise on our roadsides. However, their benefits will not be realized if sod and seed installations fail due to being installed incorrectly as has recently been the case. Failures can occur for many reasons, such as improper pre- and post-installation watering, poor soil preparation, seasonal weather influence, poor rooting of fine fescue grasses cut for sod, and lack of nutrients, but we have found the primary cause is due to inadequate/improper watering after installation. For this project, we are addressed this issue with the following objectives:
- Investigated alternative means of irrigating new installations of salt tolerant seed and sod mixtures
- Evaluated new irrigation methods in comparison to current practices
- Developed an online voluntary training and education program for installers of roadside turf
- Developed online maintenance training for homeowners that receive new salt-tolerant grass installations
This project will benefit MnDOT and the contractors that establish roadside turfgrasses by identifying a more economical and effective means of irrigating salt-tolerant seed and sod. Proven successful installation techniques will also encourage the adoption of these promising grass mixtures.
The final report, Expanding the Success of Salt-Tolerant Roadside Turfgrasses through Innovation and Education is available on the Center for Transportation Studies website.
Funding provided by:
