Distinct variety of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa Pratensis)

Abstract

A Kentucky bluegrass plant that is highly apomictic, thus providing a more uniform turf when propagated from seeds. The plant has good resistance to most diseases such as stripe smut, Helminthosporium leafspot, dollarspot, and rust. The production of a high number of rhizomes presents a dense turf which keeps weed competition down. This low-growing cultivar has a medium-textured turf and maintains its medium-green color for a longer season than some other varieties of bluegrass. The new variety of Kentucky bluegrass plant was selected from a large number of other bluegrass plants released in 1969 by Rutgers University to FFR Cooperative for variety development. The new variety was the result of replicated tests in cultivated areas at West Lafayette, Indiana and Spokane, Washington as reported hereinafter and the variety subsequently has been named "Plush". The variety is characterized by its ability to maintain a high turf quality over a wide geographical area and its ability to withstand, better than most bluegrasses, the high summertime temperatures. The qualities and charactristics which this new variety yields make it desirable in lawns and presents itself as an excellent seed producer.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of bluegrass plant, Poa pratensis, substantially as described and illustrated, and particularly characterized by a medium-green color, highly apomictic, vigorous rhizome production, and good disease tolerance.