Conservation and utilization of buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides) in Minnesota

Abstract

Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides) is a native grass of the Great Plains but is a species of concern in Minnesota because it is restricted to only a few sites in the southwestern corner of Minnesota where it is found on rock outcrops. Conservation efforts at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum have been initiated to investigate the most threatened of these sites and to collect seed for seed banking. Due to its low-growth habit and drought and heat tolerance, buffalograss has recently become popular as a low-maintenance turfgrass. To promote this grass for drier sites in Minnesota, demonstration plots were planted at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Additionally a comparison trial was started at the Arboretum in 2015 to compare the improved turftype buffalograss to the Minnesota native wild type.