Abstract:

To evaluate the biological characteristics and turf performance of newly developed bermudagrass lines, a randomized block design was adopted to conduct a comparative trial on the phenological stages, morphological traits, regrowth capacity, and turf performance among ‘Xinnong No.1’ bermudagrass (control) and three new lines: C₁₃₈, C₂₂, and C₆₃. The results indicated that: (1) compared with ‘Xinnong No.1’, which had a growth period of 168 days, line C₁₃₈ exhibited a longer growth period (172 days), with earlier spring green-up and later autumn discoloration, thus extending its green period. In contrast, lines C₂₂ and C₆₃ showed shorter growth periods (157 and 164 days, respectively), characterized by later tillering and earlier discoloration. (2) Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed in 18 out of 20 morphological indicators measured, except 1000-grain weight and root depth. The traits showing variation included reproductive shoot height, plant height, leaf length and width, and leaf number. Line C₁₃₈ was characterized by taller plants, more leaves, thicker stolons, and longer inflorescences. Line C₆₃ presented shorter plants, shorter leaves, fewer stem nodes, and shorter inflorescences. Most traits of line C₂₂ were intermediate between C₁₃₈ and C₆₃. (3) In terms of growth dynamics, the growth rate of C₁₃₈ leaves (0.092 /d) was significantly higher than that of other strains, and the overall growth of C₂₂ and C₆₃ lagged behind. (4) The overall turf performance score ranged from 5.63 to 6.95. Line C₁₃₈ achieved the highest score (6.95), demonstrating the fastest turf establishment and superior stress resistance, followed by ‘Xinnong No.1’ (6.54). The new lines C₂₂ and C₆₃ scored relatively lower, at 5.88 and 5.63, respectively. Analysis of dynamic growth revealed similar trends for C₁₃₈ and ‘Xinnong No.1’, whereas C₂₂ and C₆₃ showed overall growth retardation. In conclusion, line C₁₃₈ exhibited the best overall performance, with strong stress resistance, rapid turf establishment, and a long green period, making it suitable for urban landscaping. Line C₂₂ showed moderate performance and favorable seed quality, indicating potential for seed production. Line C₆₃ displayed a compact growth habit beneficial for reducing mowing requirements; however, its stress resistance and turf density need improvement.

Key words: Cynodon dactylon, phenological period, morphological characteristics, variety comparison, turf performance, comprehensive evaluation