What is one of the benefits of using grasses with stolons or rhizomes?

One of the key benefits of using grasses with stolons or rhizomes is their ability to spread and fill voids. Grasses that have these characteristics are capable of horizontal growth through their above-ground stems (stolons) or underground stems (rhizomes). This ability allows them to cover large areas and recover more effectively from damage or wear, such as that caused by foot traffic or environmental stress. As they spread, they fill in bare spots and create a denser turf, which is important for maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing lawn or golf course.

The ability to fill voids is particularly advantageous in ensuring a uniform appearance and improving the overall health of the turf, as they can outcompete weeds and other undesired plants in the process. This characteristic also supports resilience to stressors, such as drought, by enabling the grass to recover more quickly.

In contrast, while increased shade tolerance, faster growth rate, and higher resistance to disease are valuable traits, they do not directly relate to the spreading and filling capabilities that are most beneficial in managing turf grass health and aesthetics. Thus, the feature of spreading helps ensure that the grass can maintain its coverage and compete effectively in its environment.