Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

In what season do cool season grasses typically thrive?

1. Winter

2. Summer

3. Spring and fall

4. All year round

The correct answer is: Spring and fall

Cool season grasses are designed to grow best in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. These types of grasses, such as fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass, have physiological adaptations that enable them to flourish when soil temperatures are moderate and air temperatures are cooler, usually between 60°F and 75°F. During spring, these grasses emerge and grow rapidly as soil conditions improve, and they often continue to thrive until the heat of summer begins to stress them. In fall, as temperatures drop again, cool season grasses can re-establish and continue to grow before winter sets in. Winter is typically a dormant period for these grasses, while in summer, they may struggle or become dormant due to heat stress. The option stating all year round does not consider the specific growth patterns of these grasses, while focusing on spring and fall accurately reflects their growing habits.