Pastures for Florida


harvested, since it is difficult to locate seed for planting new
pastures.
 Germination tests conducted in 1938 and 1939 showed that
commercial seed was generally of poor quality, resulting in poor
germination and stands. More stringent seed importation laws
have been responsible for greatly improved seed quality, which
in turn has im-
proved stands.
 Bahia grass is \
widely adapted,
growing on both
high and low
soils. It will grow
on drier soils than
other pasture
grasses because i
of its deep root
system. Like car-
pet grass, it fur-
nishes little feed
during the winter
months. It is pri- ,
marily a pasture
grass, but mow-
ings may be saved
for hay.
 Paraguay
Bahia grass, re- -
cently introduced ..-. ,
from Paraguay, j .
produces seed-
stalks similar to
common Bahia,
but the leaf FIG. 25.-BAHIA GRASS.
blades are more This is a low-growing, spreading perennial with
hairy and nar- heavily rooted runners. The seed are yellowish
 green in color, waxy in appearance.
rower than in
common Bahia. It seeds very heavily and the seeds are of good
quality.
 Pensacola Bahia grass is a narrow-leafed type similar to Para-
guay but less hairy. The seeds are smaller than common or
Paraguay Bahia, and more seeds are produced per head because