Creeping bentgrass Agrostis stolonifera

Creeping bentgrass is a cool season, vigorous, perennial grass, found throughout the continental United States. The genus name is from the Greek names agron or agros, meaning "field or pasture." The species epithet means "bearing stolons or runners."

Creeping bentgrass typically colonizes moist disturbed areas through rhizomes, stolons, and seeds, and left to grow to a mature height, can reach 3 feet. However, it is more typically mowed to a one half inch or less producing a coarse, open thatch. Creeping bentgrass provides forage for large animals, remaining green throughout the summer, and can create a dense cover for small mammals and birds. It may be grown for hay because of its tolerance to mowing. It is also used in gardens, landscapes, and golf course putting greens. On the other hand, it can be a weed in a tall fescue lawns. Once mature, creeping bentgrass holds up well under foot traffic. It can require high maintenance in the form of fertilization, topdressing, mowing, and frequent fungicide applications, particularly during the summer months.

Creeping bentgrass does well in well-drained loamy soils, but will tolerate a high water table and periodic flooding. It will grow on acidic soils, does well in cold winters. It normally hardens off in late fall and turns brown as it becomes dormant. In mild climates, it remains green, but may develop red patches. It is moderately salt tolerant. It prefers full sun and does not do well in shade.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: Creeping bentgrass is susceptible to various diseases. Dollar spot, brown patch, and pythium are important problems.