A new research project at Binghamton University in New York will study how short periods of drought affect lawn health and whether incorporating different plant species can improve resilience.
The USDA awarded assistant professor Amber (Amy) Churchill a $298,476 grant to expand research at the Pasture and Lawn Enhanced Diversity Global-change Experiment (PLEDGE) at Nuthatch Hollow to explore how drought affects lawn performance.
The research site includes 30 plots planted with different combinations of tall fescue, white clover and creeping thyme. Each plot will be divided into three sections and will receive varying amounts of water to evaluate how drought influences turfgrass appearance, plant density and overall performance.
Findings could help homeowners and irrigation professionals identify planting and water management practices that maintain healthy lawns amid changing environmental conditions.
