Characterization of Paspalum Accessions as Ornamental Lawn

The lawn industry involves hundreds of millions of dollars around the world. Today, Brazilian lawns are formed mainly by Paspalum notatum. The native genus Paspalum contains a wide genetic variability between and within species. These germplasms are an important source to select genotypes with high potential for use as lawns. This study aimed to select the best Paspalum accession for use as cover for ornamental purposes. Main selection criteria are rapid expansion and low need for mowing under the conditions in northeastern Brazil. Five pre-selected Paspalum accessions (0102254, 043566, 023728, 010006 and 019178) were planted and field evaluations were made at two weeks intervals for two consecutive years after establishment. Soil coverage rate, ornamental quality (general appearance) of the lawn, extension of lateral growth, color homogeneity and weed invasion were rated by means of a visual appraisal. Based on the results obtained at the end of the 2nd year of cultivation, the accession 023728 had the highest scores and demonstrated an ornamental quality equal to or greater than the control.