Warm-season (C₄) turfgrass species such as bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) and zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp.) exhibit superior recuperative potential compared to cool-season species. Excessive divot injury on cool-season turfgrass tees during peak golf play in summer can be problematic in Chicago, IL. Newer bermudagrasses and zoysiagrass are adaptable to northern climates, given improved cold tolerance. Improved cold tolerance and recuperative potential of newer bermudagrass and zoysiagrass suggest their possible use as a golf tee surface in temperate regions. This study evaluated newer cold-tolerant warm-season cultivars for use on golf course tees and was conducted in Lemont, IL. The RCBD study utilized eight treatments with five replications. Treatments included four bermudagrass cultivars (Tahoma 31, OKC3920, OSU15x9, OSU1629) and four zoysiagrass cultivars (Meyer, Innovation, DALZ1701, DALZ1808). Area Under the Progress Curve (AUPC) was used to integrate seasonal performance across timepoints. Bermudagrass entries Tahoma 31, OKC3920, and OSU1629 demonstrated significantly superior establishment rates, lateral spread, and turfgrass cover. In 2024, average turfgrass cover for the four bermudagrasses was 60% versus 21.1% for the four zoysiagrasses. All bermudagrasses retained acceptable green color ratings (≥6) by mid-October, with OSU15x9 showing extended fall green color retention. Meyer and DALZ1808 zoysiagrass were the earliest to break dormancy on Apr 29, 2025. Continued evaluation of cold-tolerant warm-season turfgrasses for winter survival is necessary prior to their use in northern climates.
