Commonly Used Grasses on South Florida Golf Courses

South Florida golf courses are known for their lush, vibrant landscapes, which owe much to the grasses chosen to withstand the region’s warm, humid climate. The most commonly used grass types are Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and Seashore Paspalum. These grasses thrive in South Florida’s subtropical environment, providing durability, aesthetic appeal, and a quality playing surface.

Bermuda grass is perhaps the most widely used on South Florida golf courses. It grows quickly, tolerates high traffic, and maintains a consistent, smooth playing surface. Popular varieties like Tifway and TifEagle are prized for their fine texture and ability to recover rapidly from divots, making them ideal for greens and fairways alike.

Zoysia grass is another favorite for South Florida courses due to its excellent tolerance for heat and moderate drought conditions. Its dense growth habit makes it resistant to weeds and provides a firm surface, making it a great choice for fairways. Zoysia requires less mowing than Bermuda, offering a slightly more low-maintenance option for course managers.

Seashore Paspalum is commonly used on South Florida courses near coastal areas, as it thrives in salty soils and tolerates saltwater irrigation. Its lush, dark-green appearance and fine texture make it a popular choice for tees and greens. Additionally, Seashore Paspalum is environmentally friendly, as it requires less fertilizer and water compared to other grass types.

While Bermuda, Zoysia, and Seashore Paspalum dominate South Florida golf courses, many courses incorporate a mix of these grasses to create optimal playing conditions. Course designers often select grass types based on specific factors like sunlight exposure, drainage, and soil composition to ensure year-round quality.

Maintaining these grasses requires careful attention to mowing heights, irrigation, and pest management, given South Florida’s unique climate. The use of heat-tolerant and disease-resistant grass types ensures that golf courses in the region remain both visually appealing and highly functional, providing players with an enjoyable and consistent experience.