Researchers at Oklahoma State University and Mississippi State University are studying whether bluemuda turfgrass can save water and reduce maintenance costs while keeping athletic fields green year-round in transition-zone climates.
Bluemuda combines bermudagrass and Kentucky bluegrass, and researchers estimate it could cut initial seed costs by up to 45% while potentially lowering irrigation needs. Researchers began work in June 2026 and are evaluating six bermudagrass and 10 Kentucky bluegrass in 60 different combinations. The research team will assess which combinations offer the best performance and water savings.
Individuals want to share their challenges with annually overseeding bermudagrass with perennial ryegrass or follow the bluemuda research, are invited to participate in a survey by contacting Mingying Xiang at my.xiang@okstate.edu.
