Blade anatomy of dwarf Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L) contributes to lower clipping frequency

A microscopic examination of the blades of dwarf 'MTT 6-83' Kentucky bluegrass (Pea pratensis) was undertaken to investigate whether variations in structure might account for the dwarf habit and the need for less frequent clipping. 'MTT 6-83' displayed a markedly altered anatomical structure when compared with the parental type, 'Nugget'. Alterations included fewer stomata per unit area, larger bulliform cells, smaller adaxial and abaxial epidermal cells, thinner lamina, smaller abaxial/adaxial keel measurement, and a more disorganized mesophyll complex. These characteristics could in part account for the plant's dwarf habit by decreasing the plant's ability to metabolize and by allowing it to respond more readily to water deficit conditions.