Friday June 27, 2008. To view the progress at Ft. Stevens, click HERE

Bermuda grass fields have always been considered the top choice for athletic fields due to the durability and toughness of the grass. Until recently Bermuda grass was not an option for colder climates like Washington but with the introduction of cold resistant Patriot Bermuda Grass, many athletic fields in the region have converted to Patriot grass with great success. Josh McPherson of the DC Department of Parks and Recreation came to the city from George Mason University where Josh installed several of these fields. In local soccer circles, the George Mason fields are widely considered some of the best in the region.

In the picture above, dormant Patriot Bermuda sprigs are scattered from the tractor on the left and covered with dirt from the truck on the right. The field will be continuously watered for the next two days for the roots to grow and sink deep in the ground. The existing grass was sprayed with the herbicide Roundup on Tuesday and the field will remain brown and barren looking for about four weeks. Once the field greens up, it will be mowed 2 to 3 times a week to force the grass to grow horizontally. The field is scheduled to be open for play opening day this September if everything goes as planned and the weather cooperates.

For a photo essay on the Patriot Bermuda grass growth process at a regional field, click HERE