The United States is a large geographical area with many diverse climates and microclimates. Because of this it is necessary to obtain as much data on a cultivar as possible. The National Turfgrass Evaluation Program provides an extensive testing system but is cost prohibitive for screening a large number of cultivars. Therefore, the CTBT was established in order to facilitate decisions about which cultivars should be entered into a National Trial. The CTBT has been designed to cover 14 test sites across the U.S. so that researchers may gain information about the scope of adaptation of their cultivars.
Cooperators at chosen sites will collect data on turf quality, color, density and various diseases or insects. The data is analyzed and distributed to cooperators, sponsors, and posted on this web site. The sponsors encourage the use of this data but request that the data use guidelines are respected. Click here to review the guidelines.
Currently, we have Tall Fescue and Bluegrass Species trials started in 2005, Fine Fescue trials started in 2006 and Perennial Ryegrass trials in 2007. Next up will be Kentucky Bluegrass in 2009. All previous data is still accessible.
Updated March 6, 2008