Name an environmental factor that can cause turfgrass stress.

Extreme heat or drought is a significant environmental factor that can cause turfgrass stress. When temperatures rise excessively or when there is insufficient rainfall, turfgrass can suffer from a lack of moisture. This results in water deficits, leading to wilting, reduced growth, and an overall decline in vigor. High temperatures can also increase the rate of evapotranspiration, exacerbating the effects of drought conditions.

The grass’s ability to photosynthesize and thrive diminishes under extreme temperature stress, leading to increased likelihood of disease and pests taking advantage of the weakened state. Therefore, managing heat and moisture levels is crucial to maintaining the health of turfgrass, particularly during the hot summer months when the combination of heat and lack of water can be particularly detrimental.