OTHER ECONOMIC GRASSES 153 



large areas. Conditions must govern the choice between 

 mixtures and single species. If an ideal lawn is desired 

 and if it is possible to provide ideal conditions, then a 

 single species should be chosen. The single species to 

 be used would depend upon the locality: It would be 

 Kentucky bluegrass wherever that species ,can be suc- 

 cessfully grown. It would be Rhode Island bent in the 

 North Atlantic States, Bermuda in the South, St. 

 Augustine or carpet grass along the coast of the Southern 

 States. But if ideal conditions cannot be provided, 

 either because of the expense involved or because of the 

 natural soil conditions, it is advisable to sow mixtures 

 with the hope that the unfavorable conditions may be 

 thus partly neutralized. 



The reader is referred to the chapter or paragraph on 

 each species of grass for information concerning its use 

 as a lawn grass. Under the chapter on bluegrass will be 

 found directions for making a lawn. In general it may 

 be stated that an ideal lawn requires great care in the 

 preparation of the soil. It should be uniform, well- 

 drained, and fertile. It should be put in a condition of 

 perfect tilth. It often requires a year's preparation to 

 place the soil in a perfect state for the reception of the 

 seed. If the soil is not naturally fertile it should be 

 enriched with barnyard manure, well rolled, and free 

 from noxious weeds. An important item also is the use 

 of the best grade of seed obtainable (see page 37). 



ORNAMENTALS 



Several species of grasses are used for ornament. A 

 few species are grown for the inflorescence which is 



