Author: Sarah

A TURFGRASS PROGRAM’S EXPANDING ROLE IN ZOYSIAGRASS INNOVATION

Brian Schwartz and Sameer Khanal
Warm-season Turfgrass Breeding Program
University of Georgia (UGA), Tifton Campus

The warm-season turfgrass breeding program at UGA’s Tifton Campus continues to foster its long-standing and impactful public-private partnerships to address key challenges in the turfgrass industry through cultivar development. Our research focuses on germplasm enhancement and characterisation (pre-breeding), and while conventional breeding practices remain central to our approach, novel phenotyping tools, such as drones equipped with diverse sensors and molecular genotyping methods like DNA fingerprinting further enhance our efforts. Although the incorporation of genomics-enabled breeding has lagged in warm-season turfgrasses, we anticipate these approaches will soon become commonplace. Our program has historically focused on bermudagrass and centipedegrass breeding and has now expanded to include zoysiagrass.

Zoysiagrass Joins the Breeding Program’s Core

Zoysiagrass breeding became a key priority of our program at the University of Georgia in response to the industry’s need for more warm-season turfgrass options.

The increasing prevalence of heat and drought has necessitated the adoption of low-input, drought-tolerant species across a broader geographic range. Among them, zoysiagrass stands out for its exceptional adaptability, offering resilience to cold, drought, shade, and salinity, along with reduced fertiliser, pesticide, and mowing requirements. Its versatility across applications, including home lawns, golf courses, public greenspaces, and roadside, combined with its superior turf quality, has positioned it as a critical focus for our breeding program. Zoysiagrass breeding is not new in Tifton; ‘Emerald’ was released here by the USDA in 1955. Although there was a 54-year hiatus between this release and our first crosses in 2009, we’ve hit the ground running since then.

“I did my doctoral research at the University of Florida focused extensively on zoysiagrass genetics, abiotic and biotic stress responses, and turf performance traits. There we demonstrated that key characteristics—such as turf density, colour, quality, plot establishment, spring green- up, fall (autumn) dormancy, and seedhead density—exhibited sufficient heritability, indicating that meaningful improvements could be achieved through breeding and selection. My experiences in zoysiagrass research provided a foundation for expanding breeding efforts at UGA, where we initially focused on vegetative zoysiagrass cultivar development and have more recently expanded into seeded zoysiagrass breeding.” — Dr. Brian Schwartz, UGA

Key Sources of Zoysiagrass Germplasm for Breeding

A new plant breeding program relies on access to diverse germplasm resources, which provide the genetic variation needed to reshuffle breeding populations and create lines with superior genetic makeup. In addition to existing cultivars and publicly available germplasm, our research leverages zoysiagrass accessions acquired through collaborative agreements with Bladerunner Farms, Inc. a private company hosting one of the largest zoysiagrass collections in the United States, and Patten Seed Co. one of the largest warm-season turfgrass farming operations in the Southeastern U.S. Our efforts to generate genetic variability also include physical and chemical mutagenesis, chromosomal modifications, such as induced chromosome doubling and aneuploidy—and, more recently, targeted genome editing using the CRISPR-Cas9 system. Currently, we are screening more than 20,000 breeding lines for turfgrass performance in our vegetative zoysiagrass breeding program.

Phenotypic Recurrent Selection in Zoysiagrass: From Hybridisation to Field Trials

Our vegetative zoysiagrass breeding procedure follows a recurrent phenotypic selection scheme (select-recombine- repeat), in which segregating populations are developed by hybridising parental lines with desirable attributes. The resulting progenies, numbering in the thousands, are propagated in the greenhouse and later transplanted into spaced plant nurseries for multi-year evaluations of establishment, turf quality, and natural stress responses, among other traits. These subjective, visual ratings are supplemented with data collected using small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS). Selection indices are calculated, and a subset of lines (hundreds) are advanced to replicated field trials at one or more locations, including Bladerunner Farms in Poteet, Texas. The best-performing lines identified from the advanced trials often become parents for the next selection cycle. A similar approach will be used in our new seeded zoysiagrass breeding program, with added emphasis on traits important to the seed industry. Early selection cycles will prioritise characteristics such as seed yield, germination speed, and rapid establishment.

Multi-Institutional Efforts in Turfgrass Improvement and Cultivar Development

Between 2010 and 2024, six leading turfgrass research institutions in the U.S.—North Carolina State University (NCSU), Oklahoma State University (OSU), Texas A&M University (TAMU), University of California (UCR), University of Florida (UF), and University of Georgia (UGA)—secured a total of $16.2 million in funding through the USDA Specialty Crop Research Initiative. This funding supported coordinated agricultural projects aimed at improving warm-season turfgrasses through interdisciplinary research. As a result of these grants, we expanded our testing
sites across the southern U.S., focusing on developing and promoting drought- tolerant cultivars of bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, seashore paspalum, and zoysiagrass. To date, these projects have led to the release of more than 15 turfgrass cultivars, including three zoysiagrasses: Brazos, CitraZoy, and Lobo. Additionally, Zoysia Australis (entry name 16-TZ-14114), developed in our program, was launched in Australia and may soon be introduced in other regions around the world.

A New Era for Seeded Zoysiagrass

In our experience, the broader adoption of vegetatively propagated warm-season turfgrasses, including zoysiagrass, has been limited because they are primarily available as turf/sod. Seeded zoysiagrass cultivars with improved aesthetics are in high demand in both the U.S. and international markets, offering a cheaper and more accessible alternative to turf/sod establishment. However, despite long-standing anticipation dating back to the late 1990s, that multiple seeded zoysiagrass cultivars would soon reach commercial availability and rival the warm-season sod market, Zenith and Compadre remain the only two cultivars produced commercially in the U.S. These cultivars continue to face challenges such as slow germination, delayed establishment, and limited seedling vigour, which have hindered broader adoption.

From a breeding perspective, one major hurdle in developing seeded zoysiagrass cultivars in the U.S. has been identifying suitable environments for consistent seedhead production. Fortunately, parts of Georgia and South Carolina offer the right combination of day length and humidity for adequate seed yields. While we are still in the early stages of developing seeded cultivars, our breeding program benefits from access to germplasm adapted to this region. We are currently screening more than 10,000 seeded zoysiagrass breeding lines to identify parental clones with excellent yield and germinability.

Fortunately, our vegetative and seeded breeding efforts are complementary in that new hybrids with superior sod and seed characteristics emerge from both areas of our zoysiagrass research. This synergy gives us hope that we can get more “bang for the buck” as we ride a wave of genetic improvement well into the future.

A billboard along the highway outside of town reads, “Think Tifton – The Turfgrass Capital of the World.” Today, that message implies bermudagrass—but in the future, we hope UGA-bred zoysiagrasses will also stand the test of time!

HG SPORTS TURF

In the heart of Brisbane, Suncorp Stadium stands as more than just a sporting venue, it’s a place where legends are made, and history is written under the stadium lights. For over two decades, the field endured countless epic rugby clashes, high-stakes soccer matches, and world-class concerts. But after 21 years and increasing pressure from a packed events calendar, 2024 marked the beginning of a new chapter: the transition to the HERO Hybrid Ready to Play Turf system.

Following a comprehensive tender process, HG Sports Turf was awarded the contract to lead this significant upgrade. Known for delivering cutting-edge turf solutions across Australia and New Zealand, HG Sports Turf stepped up to the challenge with its pioneering HERO Hybrid technology.

From Paddock to Pitch – Growing HERO at Beaudesert

After securing the project in early 2024, HG Sports Turf focused on prepping the QLD based turf farm for production. The chosen site at Beaudesert underwent critical groundwork including land formation, drainage, and irrigation to meet exacting specifications. Although the contract called for 14,000m2, a total of 2 hectares was prepared, ensuring surplus turf would also benefit other Stadiums Queensland facilities and local councils.

Matt Oliver, Suncorp Stadium’s Grounds Manager, has long championed innovation in turf management. With Queensland’s inconsistent seasons and the complexities of managing species transitions between ryegrass and couch grass, Oliver introduced an annual pitch replacement strategy to ensure a consistently high-quality surface. This proactive approach has led to the adoption of Couch grass, selected after rigorous testing at Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC).

With preparations complete, HG Sports Turf began installing the HERO hybrid system, this time with an environmental focus. The company has phased out the use of plastic and geofabric beneath the hybrid layer, opting instead for a sand bedding that promotes sustainable turf growth and reduces waste.

The HERO system is built panel by panel, stitched together using a unique butt-stitch method. Each layer of sand topdressing (applied in 5mm to 10mm increments) is carefully brushed and groomed to keep the synthetic fibres upright. Once the profile reaches a depth of 30mm, sprigging begins, followed by a final topdressing layer to support the new couch grass.

Mick Gilman, former Suncorp Stadium turf expert and now Turf Farm Manager at HG Sports Turf, oversees the day-to-day production and care of the new hybrid surface.

What Makes HERO a Game Changer

The HERO Hybrid Ready to Play Turf system blends natural and synthetic elements to deliver an elite playing surface. Synthetic fibres are knitted into an open grid, allowing natural grass to grow through and intertwine. The result? A surface that’s stable, durable, and quick to recover after events.

Already proven in Australia and New Zealand’s top stadiums including the MCG, Optus Stadium, Adelaide Oval, AAMI Park, and Eden Park, HERO Hybrid is also endorsed by international bodies like FIFA and World Rugby, making it a go-to choice for global sporting events.

Precision Installation Ahead of a Massive Match

With a major International Friendly between the CommBank Matildas and Olympic Silver Medallists Brazil on the horizon, the HG team had a tight window to complete the installation.

The project kicked off with the removal of the old turf and 60mm of organic material using a KORO Field Topmaker. New sand was imported, laser-graded, and amended to match precise specifications. While this was underway at Suncorp, HG’s farm crew harvested 6500m2 of HERO turf, adding to the 3500m2 previously laid after the Travis Scott concert in October 2024.

Turf rolls, each 12m long, 1m wide, and weighing approximately 750kg were transported from Beaudesert to Brisbane. With a team of 14 at the stadium and 6 at the turf farm, the entire installation wrapped up in just five days.

“It takes a huge team effort from all of our staff, the stadium crew, our partners, and suppliers, but it’s incredibly rewarding,” said Erik Kinlon from HG Sports Turf. “The biggest challenges were the persistent rain and the tight site logistics, especially around turf deliveries and material movement.”

Despite the weather, the operation went off with military precision and the HERO turf was rolled and consolidated, ready for play.

A Surface Fit for the Spotlight

As the final checks were completed and the turf settled into place, a new era officially began at Suncorp Stadium. For the first time in its storied history, the venue now boasts a true hybrid “ready to play” surface.

The months ahead will be a proving ground for the new turf, with an intense event schedule that includes A-League soccer, NRL and Super Rugby clashes, concerts, Magic Round, State of Origin, and even the British and Irish Lions Tour.

No stadium has a calendar quite like Suncorp’s, but now, it has the surface to match.

NEW EXPANSION TAKING SHAPE

Stampede Hybrid Buffalo is an enhanced variety of soft-leaf buffalo grass developed by Lawn Solutions Australia. This innovative strain is set to hit the market soon and is the result of decades of research and development by Texas A&M University, led by renowned turf scientist Dr. Ambika Chandra.

Lawn Solutions Australia is currently in a crucial phase of bringing Stampede to market. Several key turf producers across Australia are rapidly expanding stock to provide planting material to Lawn Solutions members nationwide. This phase is part of a broader process that every new certified turf variety must undergo before reaching the market. Following this strict process is essential to maintain the genetic purity of the stock as it is distributed. The process is outlined below.

Propagation Phase

Once a particular strain of grass is selected, initial propagation begins. This phase is highly manual and meticulous, involving the separation of individual runners, which are then cut and planted into cell trays. While tedious, the results are incredibly rewarding. Just one 8-inch pot of material can produce thousands of individual plants. Once cut and planted into the trays, these plants are placed into temperature- controlled hothouses to maximise growth speed, as time is always of the essence.

Foundation Establishment Phase

Once the cell trays have matured, they are removed from the hothouse and placed under green shade cloth to harden. This step is crucial because grass that has been grown in a hot, humid environment may struggle when transplanted into new soil. The plugs are generally kept under green cloth for 2–3 weeks before being sent to select foundation farms for planting and expansion. These foundation farms are Lawn Solutions Australia (LSA) members carefully chosen for their meticulous approach to turf expansion. They are in strategically select geographic locations for optimal performance assessment across a range of climates. Foundation farms must adhere to strict AusGAP (Australian Genetic Assurance Program for Turfgrass) protocols during this phase.

Foundation Stock Release Phase

This is where Stampede is currently in its expansion process. The foundation farms have been established, and the grass is growing in, ready to be harvested and sold to LSA members nationwide as registered stock. Before the grass is harvested and distributed, every square metre of the foundation fields is inspected and certified by AusGAP. The farms receiving stock must also conduct pre-plant audits to ensure the fields adhere to AusGAP standards. The foundation stock release is expected to take place over the next few months.

Release to Market Phase

Once each LSA member’s registered stock has matured, it will be available for sale to the market. This means that retail, trade, commercial, and sports turf customers will be able to purchase their very own Stampede Hybrid Buffalo grass from their local LSA supplier. We anticipate this will happen in August 2026, depending on weather conditions during the upcoming spring and summer.

As you can see, bringing a new turfgrass variety to market is a long and expensive process, but ensuring the purity of new strains is critical. To stay updated on the Stampede expansion and its release in your area, contact your local Lawn Solutions Accredited supplier.

GREEN LIFE TURF FLOOD REMEDIATION PROJECT

Nestled on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, just outside Windsor, New South Wales, is a newly completed turf project that demonstrates the power of natural erosion control using turf. A collaborative effort led by Green Life Turf has transformed a flood devastated riverbank into a resilient green embankment.

Josh Muscat from Green Life Turf and his team have been at the forefront of this initiative, working tirelessly to rebuild the area following the devastating floods of 2021. “We had four consecutive floods over that period, real big floods,” Josh explains. “In 2021, we lost all the soil here on the riverbank directly alongside our production farm. The bank dropped 8-9 metres down to river level, and everything was washed away. It was just one big hole of erosion.”

Rebuilding From the Ground Up

The first step in the project was stabilising the ground. Given the significant soil loss, the only viable solution was to import clean fill with clay content, compacted in 200- 300mm layers. “We brought in over 7,200 truckloads of material,” Josh says. “It had to be done in stages, ensuring each layer was properly packed to prevent future slumping and erosion.” What was once an inaccessible, unstable site is now a solid, functional riverbank. “In the beginning, even a small excavator couldn’t get down here,” Josh recalls. “Now, we can bring in trucks and machinery with no problem.”

The Role of Turf in Erosion Control

While the structural rebuild was essential, turf played a critical role in stabilising the riverbank and preventing future erosion. Over 5,000 square metres of turf was laid, featuring four different turf varieties, each chosen for its unique benefits.

• TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda: Selected for its drought tolerance and rapid establishment, making it ideal for areas with limited irrigation.
• Sir Grange Zoysia: Known for its dense growth and aesthetic appeal, Sir Grange provides a lush, low-maintenance solution for erosion control.
• Zoysia Australis: A hardy, low- maintenance turf that performs well in various conditions while maintaining a neat appearance.
• Sir Walter DNA Certified Soft Leaf Buffalo: Used in upper areas to create a park-like feel while also offering strong erosion control.

“The TifTuf was the quickest to establish, grabbing hold almost immediately,”

Josh notes. “But the real surprise was Sir Grange, it’s not just visually stunning, but it established faster than expected and holds the ground exceptionally well.”

A Scalable Solution for Any Landscape

While this is a large-scale commercial project, the lessons learned apply to domestic landscapes as well. Sloping yards, embankments, and even garden beds can benefit from the erosion-controlling properties of turf. Whether it’s TifTuf for fast establishment, Sir Grange for visual appeal, or Zoysia Australis for low-maintenance durability, there’s a turf solution for every environment.

Looking Ahead

This project is more than just a restoration after the devastating floods, it’s a case study for erosion control, demonstrating how turf can be used to protect and revive even the most severely damaged landscapes. “We’ll be collecting data over the next few years to see how these varieties continue to perform,” Josh says.

With nature’s best erosion control, turf now in place, the once-devastated riverbank is now fully repaired and stabilised for the future.

For those looking to learn more about this project or implement similar solutions, please reach out to Green Life Turf or Lawn Solutions Australia.

From Europe to Australia

When Besenthal Rollrasen, one of Germany’s leading turf growers, set out to solve the challenge of post-harvest turf deterioration, they turned to a technology that was about to transform their operations: vacuum cooling.

Their goal was simple yet ambitious, to deliver turf that stayed fresher for longer, travelled better, and delighted customers days after harvest. The results were immediate.

By adopting vacuum cooling technology, Besenthal was able to dramatically extend the shelf life of their turf, reduce waste, and offer greater flexibility to their customers. Now, this same innovation brought to you by Heuch Cooling Solutions is reshaping the future for Australian turf growers.

The Turf Grower’s Challenge

Across the world, turf growers face a shared challenge: preserving quality between harvest and installation. Turf remains biologically active after cutting, trapping heat and moisture within densely packed pallets. The soil backing each roll acts like an insulator, allowing internal temperatures to soar, sometimes climbing past 60°C in just a few hours, triggering a process known as turf/sod heating. The consequences are immediate: yellowing, spoilage, wasted product, missed deliveries, and lost revenue. Growers are locked into a race against time — a race that until now, has been difficult to win.

Vacuum Cooling

Recognising the need for a smarter solution, Heuch Cooling Solutions introduced vacuum cooling technology to the Australian turf market. Vacuum cooling works by lowering atmospheric pressure around the harvested turf, causing moisture to evaporate and rapidly cool the product. Within minutes, turf temperatures can drop from around 30°C to just 1°C. By halting turf heating before it begins, vacuum cooling doesn’t just preserve freshness, it rewrites what’s possible for turf supply chains.

Besenthal’s experience speaks volumes. Using vacuum cooling, they were able to keep turf fresh, vibrant, and installation- ready for far longer periods, even across longer, more complex distribution networks. The result? Less waste, fewer lost sales, and a stronger reputation for delivering premium-quality turf, even under tough conditions. Their success proved that with the right technology, freshness could be extended, logistics could be simplified, and turf operations could be revolutionised.

The Australian Breakthrough

In March 2025, Heuch Cooling Solutions completed a landmark trial with a major turf grower here in Australia. Freshly harvested pallets of Sir Walter DNA Certified and Eureka Kikuyu turf was cooled using vacuum technology. Initial turf temperatures ranging between 26°C and 28°C were reduced to a crisp 2°C in less than 35 minutes.

Data monitoring revealed:

• Turf maintained optimal low temperatures for over 40 hours, without the need for re-cooling.
• Humidity stayed consistently high, preserving turf vitality while preventing dehydration.
• Dew point and temperature tracking confirmed moisture was managed effectively, protecting against microbial risks.

Practical benefits:

• Resilient Deliveries: Turf could enter the logistics chain already stabilised, reducing risks during transit.
• Higher Quality: Visual appeal, root health, and moisture levels are preserved far longer.
• Operational Flexibility: Growers could harvest and cool in advance, reducing reliance on perfect delivery timing.

Australian growers now have local proof that vacuum cooling is not just a theory, it’s a proven tool for protecting quality, profitability, and reputation.

Competitive Advantages

For turf growers, the implications of this technology extend far beyond freshness.

Vacuum cooling unlocks a series of competitive advantages:

• Wastage Reduction: Modern turf varieties are especially vulnerable post-harvest, with up to 20% loss common under traditional methods. Vacuum cooling stops this loss in its tracks.
• Better Labour Management: Harvesting can now happen during daylight
• hours, making roles more attractive and improving staff retention.
• Weather Resilience: Rain forecasts no longer derail operations. Turf can be harvested early, cooled, and stored until needed.
• Next-Day Delivery Capability: Having cooled turf in storage opens opportunities to fulfill urgent orders at premium prices.
• Moisture Control: Vacuum cooling minimises surface moisture loss (just 1–3%), making pallets lighter, easier to handle, and less prone to spoilage.

In an increasingly competitive market, these advantages don’t just add value, they can define success.

More Than Just Cooling

Heuch Cooling Solutions doesn’t stop at vacuum cooling. Their comprehensive approach to cold chain solutions includes:

• Mobile and fixed cool rooms designed specifically for turf storage.
• Solar-powered refrigerated transport kits for your delivery trucks.
• Industrial ice makers and environmental chambers to protect turf at every stage of the supply chain.

As turf operations across Australia grow larger, faster, and more demanding, the need for smarter cooling solutions is only increasing.

Vacuum cooling doesn’t just help turf survive the journey; it helps growers thrive. It transforms what was once a race against time into a predictable, manageable process.

With decades of engineering expertise and partnerships with leading technology innovators like Weber Group, Heuch Cooling Solutions ensures that Australian turf growers have access to world-class solutions — right here, right now.

MICHAEL AND SARAH BRADY, OWNERS OF MALLEE TURF

The journey of Mallee Turf developed through a passion for nurturing the land. What began in the expansive paddocks of broadacre agronomy has evolved into a premier turf business, helping families, businesses, and communities across the Mildura region create beautiful, thriving outdoor spaces with turf.

Long before Mallee Turf was born, our roots were firmly planted in agronomy research and development. Years were spent working alongside farmers, funding bodies, and industry leaders to improve crop performance, enhance soil health, and develop sustainable farming practices. Through rigorous trials and hands-on experience, we gained invaluable knowledge of plant growth cycles, nutrient management, and environmental sustainability, knowledge that would later become the foundation of the turf farming journey.

But beyond the science, what truly drove us was a desire to create something meaningful, something that would not only benefit large- scale agriculture but also bring beauty and functionality to everyday outdoor spaces.

A New Opportunity: Sunraysia’s Mowing & Maintenance

That passion led us to explore a new path. In 2020, amidst the uncertainty of COVID-19, we launched Sunraysia’s Mowing & Maintenance with a simple goal: to help property owners maintain lush, healthy landscapes. We started with just 45 properties under management, but through dedication and a commitment to quality service, we now care for over 300 properties each month.

From residential backyards to commercial spaces, our team provides essential lawn care, weed management, and grounds maintenance services because we believe a well-kept lawn isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space where families gather, businesses make a great first impression, and communities thrive.

The Birth of Mallee Turf

As our maintenance business grew, so did our vision. We knew we could take our expertise even further, not just by maintaining great lawns, but by growing them from the ground up.

That’s how Mallee Turf was born.

What started as a simple property purchase to store our equipment soon became the foundation for something much greater. With seven acres of land at our disposal, we saw an opportunity to cultivate premium turf varieties tailored to our local climate. A visit to the Melbourne Flower Show sealed the deal, we knew the turf industry was where we needed to be.

In mid-January 2025, we planted our first turf crops, focusing on high-performance varieties like Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo and TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda, grasses known for their resilience and ability to thrive in Sunraysia’s conditions.

Starting a turf farm from scratch hasn’t been without its challenges, but we’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the support of industry experts like Gavin Rogers and Brent Redman at Lawn Solutions Australia and Paul Daniel at The Turf Farm in Pinnaroo, whose guidance has been instrumental in bringing our vision to life.

A Commitment to Community

At Mallee Turf, we believe a great lawn is more than just grass, it’s the foundation for moments that matter. It’s where kids take their first steps, where friends gather for weekend barbecues, and where businesses create welcoming outdoor spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality turf that not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time in our unique climate.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand our production capacity, introduce innovative solutions like auto-mowers, and continue providing premium turf to homeowners, landscapers, and businesses across the region.

Being part of the Lawn Solutions Australia network gives us access to the latest industry advancements, ensuring that every roll of turf we supply meets the highest standards. But more than that, it connects us with a community of people who share our passion for quality, sustainability, and customer care.

This journey, from agronomy research to property maintenance and now turf farming, has been an incredible evolution. While we’re proud of how far we’ve come, we know the best is yet to come.

Whether you’re looking to transform your backyard, enhance your business frontage, or create a greener, more vibrant space, Mallee Turf is here to help. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about growing turf, it’s about growing beautiful, lasting landscapes for the people who call this region home.