Edibleflowers

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National Conference on Floriculture for Rural and Urban Prosperity in the Scenario of Climate Change-2018

transport and cooling options. The fair focusing on It is envisioned that sincere attempts would
Floriculture technologies and services and proper revitalize floriculture among small and marginal
extension services, will provide the farmers a platform farmer who are having small lands and the community-
to interact and assess the procedure for export and based development of cool chain and proper markets
discuss with manufacturer, cultivators, dealers, for quality produce will also help in generating more
packers, exporters and distributors concerned with income. The priority should be export quality and
the floriculture industry. even domestic consumption quality also needs to be
upgraded.

Edible Flowers
Y. C. Gupta1, Priyanka Sharma2, Gitam Sharma3 and Roshini Agnihotri4
Dept. of Floriculture &Landscape Architecture
1, 3, 4

Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni Solan.


2
Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agriculture University, Jhansi, UP
*Corresponding E-mail: ycgupta2006@yahoo.co.in

Introduction medieval France, the flowers of calendula (Calendula


officinalis) were used as a salad ingredient. In Central
Edible flowers are flowers that can be consumed
Europe, the inflorescences of breaded elder (Sambucus
safely. Edible flower is defined as nontoxic, innocuous
nigra) were often consumed (Kopec, 2004).
flowers with health benefits consumed in human diet
(Alasalvar et al., 2013). Uses
Many flow ers are edible but proper identification • Plays a major role in meeting the nutritional
is essential because some are poisonous. Popular requirement of the tribal population in remote
edible flowers include chrysanthemum, day lily, parts of the country throughout year (Sasi et al.,
lilac, mint, nasturtium, pansy, rose, tulip and violet 2011).
(University of Kentucky, 2012). Until now, there
• Wild food plants play a very important role in the
are no official lists of edible and non-edible flowers
livelihoods of rural communities as an integral
emitted by any international body, including Food
part of the subsistence strategy of people in many
and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
developing countries (Jadhav, 2011).
(FAO), World Health Organization (WHO), Food
and Drug Administration (FDA), or European Food • Wild plants are essential components of many
Safety Authority (EFSA). African diets, especially in period of seasonal
food shortage (Zemede, 1997).
History • In Zimbabwe some poor household rely on wild
Early reports indicate that Romans used flowers fruits as an alternative to cultivated for quarter of
in cooking, as did Chinese, Middle Eastern and all dry seasons meals (Wilson, 1990).
Indian cultures. During Queen Victoria’s reign, • 57 wild edible plants species are consumed, in 118
edible flowers were popular in North America and different ways as a source of food by Charotepeople
Europe (Newman and O’Connor, 2013). The Chinese of Argentina (Pastor and Gastavo, 2007).
incorporated flowers as ingredients in a wide variety • Wild edibles are the essential components of
of recipes, and flower usage can be traced back as far many Spanish diets especially during various
as 3000 BCE. Edible flowers in ancient China served traditional events and fairs (Javier et al., 2006).
not only as food ingredients but also as components
• As an ingredient in salads or garnish, entrees,
in herbal medication (Wongwattanasathien et al.,
drinks and desserts. Recipes with flowers have
2010). Early reports indicate that in Ancient Rome,
been applied to different food matrices namely,
the edible flowers of violets and roses were used in
tea, baking, sauces, jelly, syrup, savoured liquors,
dishes, and lavender was used in sauces. In ancient
vinegars, honey, and oils (Felippe, 2004).
Rome, the flowers of various rose species were used as
ingredients of purees and omelets (Melillo, 1994). In • Some flowers can be stuffed or used in stir-fried
dishes.

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National Conference on Floriculture for Rural and Urban Prosperity in the Scenario of Climate Change-2018

• They could have an interesting application as • Roselle and Chinese hibiscus of the Malvaceae
natural colorant, representing an alternative to family displayed (Alarcon-Alonso et al.,
the use of synthetic dyes in foods. They are usually 2012), hepatoprotective (Lee et al., 2012), and
used to add color, fragrance and flavor to food gastroprotective effects (Phani Kumar et al.,
such as salads, soups, entrees, desserts and drinks 2014).
(Rop et al., 2012). • In vivo and clinical trials revealed that roselle
• The most frequent way to consume edible flowers demonstrated anti-cholesterol, anti-hypertensive
is in fresh butthey can also be consumed dried, and anti-diabetic properties (Peng et al., 2011).
in cocktails (in ice cubes), canned in sugar and • Chinese hibiscus exerted anti-convulsive and
preserved in distillates (Mlcek and Rop, 2011). contraceptive effects. It also promoted hair
• Pansy (Viola × wittrockiana), centaurea growth, wound healing and immunity (Gauet al.,
(Centaurea cyanus), borago (Borago officinalis), 2009).
rose (Rose spp.), nasturtiums (Tropaeolium • Rose extract (20 g/kg) reduced blood pressure
majus) and hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) are both in acute and chronic cases in an animal
examples of edible flowers that are normally used model. Edible species of rose also exerted anti-
to garnish dishes. HIV-effects (Gau et al., 2009).
• Some herb flowers are edible, namely: alliums • Chamomile ethanolic extract (20–100 mg/kg)
(leeks, chives, garlic), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), shows effective antidiabetic effect (Cemek et al.,
summer savory (Satureja hortensis), marjoram 2008).
(Origanum majorana), mint (Mentha spp.) and
• Chamomile together with wild chrysanthemum
common sage (Salvia officinalis), which are used
and honeysuckle are also good sources of anti-
to improve the flavor of dishes. Flowers of some
nociceptive drugs (Shi et al., 2011).
fruit trees can also be used in cuisine as syrups
such as elderberry blossoms (Sambucus spp) and • Other effects such as sleep patterns regulation
citrus blossoms (orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit, effect of Hangzhou whitechrysanthemum and
kumquat). anti-depression effectof day lily were also reported
(Lin et al., 2013).
In general, edible flowers are eaten whole, but
depending on the flower species, only some parts List of important edible flowers
should be consumed. For example, only the petals of
1. Agastache foeniculum: Anise hyssop is a self-
Tulipa, Chrysanthemum, Rosa spp. or the flower buds
seeding perennial. It has anise flavor. It relieves
of daisies (Bellis perenis) or garden nasturtium (T.
the respiratory problems and soothe the stomach
majus) are consumed. Furthermore, in some flowers
and colon.
it is necessary to remove some parts due to their
bitterness such as the white portions of the roses and 2. Althea rosea: Hollyhock has a vegetal flavor. It is
chrysanthemums petals base. used for showy edible garnish.
3. Anthirrhinum majus: Snapdragon are bitter.
Edible flowers for health They are used as garnish.
Some specific health benefits of flowers are given 4. Anthriscus cerefolium: Chervil is an annual
below: having herbal flavor.
• Edible flowers are nearly calorie free. 5. Begonia tuberhybrida: Only tuberous Begonia
• Source of anti-oxidants. (Begonia tuberhybrida) petals are edible. The
petals contain oxalic acid and therefore should
• Some edible flowers are anti-inflammatory.
only be eaten in moderation and should not
• Edible flowers exerted potent activities against be consumed by individuals suffering from
cancers of the liver, bladder, prostate, breast, and gout, kidney stones or rheumatism. It has a
colon. slightly lemon flavor. It can be used in salads
• Roselle, magnolia flower, and water lily shows and garnishes. It has nondescript, antiphlogistic,
inhibition effect on obesity. antispasmodic, ophthalmic, gastric properties
• Neuronal degradation is highly associated with (Mlcek and Rop, 2011).
aging. Hangzhou white chrysanthemum extract 6. Bellis perennis: English daisy is mildly bitter. The
exhibited positive effects on neurodegenerative perennial species is used for edible purposes. Ray
diseases. flowers have a mildly bitter taste. If you have hay

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National Conference on Floriculture for Rural and Urban Prosperity in the Scenario of Climate Change-2018

fever, asthma or severe allergies, you should avoid diseases such as pneumonia, colitis, stomatitis,
eating flowers of the Daisy (Bellis perennis) family carbuncle and fever (Mlcek and Rop, 2011).
because they could trigger an allergic reaction. 12. Cichorium intybus: Chicory is a perennial plant
7. Borago officinalis: Borage is an annual. It can be having herbal flavor.
used with nasturtium but only sparingly as it has 13. Dianthus spp.: Dianthus has a sweet clove
diuretic effects. Pregnant and lactating women like flavor. Perennial species is used for edible
should avoid Borage (Borago officinalis) flowers, purposes. Remove the narrow base of petals as
as more than eight to ten flowers can cause milk to they are bitter.
flow. They can also have a diuretic effect, so should
14. Erucavesicaria sativa: Arugula has a spicy flavor.
not be eaten in great quantity. It has crisp, cucumber
It is an annual plant. Once flowers form, the leaves
flavor. Blossoms and leaves can be consumed.
become bitter.
It can be used in cakes decoration, pastries, and
desserts. It has antispasmodic, antihypertensive, 15. Hemerocallis spp.: Daylily has a vegetal, slightly
antipyretic, aphrodisiac, demulcent, diuretic sweet, combination of asparagus and zucchini
properties and is also considered useful to treat flavor. It may act as a diuretic or laxative therefore
asthma, bronchitis, cramps, diarrhea, palpitations should be eaten in moderation. Buds, flowers,
and kidney ailments (Gilani et al., 2007). petals are used but remove the stamens. It is used
in salads or garnishes. To treat aching muscles
8. Calendula officinalis: Calendula is slightly bitter
and strains, antipyretic, oral disinfectant, this
in taste. This annual plant is most often used
plant is used. (Jauron and Naeve, 2013).
for color rather than flavor. It aids in digestion,
reduce fevers and stimulate the immune system. 16. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis: Hibiscus has a mildly
Use petals in salads, soups, butter, rice, stews, citrus flavor. It presents a showy edible garnish.
poultry, or in tea. It is anti-inflammatory, regulates Contains antioxidants that help prevent
menstruation, aids gastric disturbances, colitis, cholesterol deposits and aids liver disorders.
fevers and infections problems, eczema, oily skin 17. Jasmineofficinale:OnlyJasmineofficinaleisedible.
and psoriasis (Jauron and Naeve, 2013). Only The false Jasmine (Gelsemium sempervirens) is a
petals are consumed. completely different genus and is considered too
9. Centaurea cyanus: Bachelor’s button is an annual poisonous for human consumption.
plant. Its petals are edible but the the calyx is bitter. 18. Lavendula spp.: Lavender has a sweet, perfumed
It has a slightly sweet to spicy, clove-likeflavour. flavor. It should be used sparingly due to intense
It is used to garnish tea; the petals are also a flavor. Lavender oil may be poisonous. It eases
natural food colorant. It has soothing, antioxidant stress and work as gentle sleep aids.
properties and used in ocular inflammation 19. Lonicera japonica: Honeysuckle has a sweet
(Jauron and Naeve, 2013). Only petals are used. flavor. Only this species of Lonicera is edible not
10. Chamaemelum noblis: Chamomile has sweet all. It relieves respiratory problems and soothe the
apple like flavor. It is a perennial plant. Tea prepared stomach and colon.
by this should be consumed in moderation as 20. Malus spp.: Apple flowers have floral flavor. It
it contains thuaone. Ragweed sufferers may be should be consumed in moderation since flowers
allergic to chamomile. It eases stress and work as contain cyanide precursors.
gentle sleep aids. 21. Monarda didyma: Bee balm is a perennial plant
11. Chrysanthemum spp.: Chrysanthemum has a having minty, sweet and hot flavor. Flowers, leaves
strong flavor. Usually florets are consumed. The are used in salads, garnishes, bee balm tea. It helps
highest levels of mineral elements were observed to calm digestive problems, colic, nausea, bloated
in the flowers of species Chrysanthemum, distended stomach, flatulence and belching
Dianthus or Viola by Rop et al. (2012). The most (Roberts, 2000).
abundant element was potassium, the contents of 22. Moringa oleifera: Ithas numerous medicinal
which ranged from 1,842.61 to 3,964.84 ma/kg uses which havelong been recognized in the
of fresh mass. Only Chrysanthemum coronarium Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicine. The
should be eaten; it is not advisable to eat other types flower of Moringa oleifera have high medicinal
of chrysanthemum. Remove the bitter flower value as a stimulant, aphrodisiac, abortifacient,
base and use petals only. It is used in tea. Also cholagogue used to cure inflammation, muscle
used for the treatment of constipation, vertigo, diseases, hysteria, tumors and enlargement
hypertensive symptoms and several infectious

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National Conference on Floriculture for Rural and Urban Prosperity in the Scenario of Climate Change-2018

of the spleen; lower the serum cholesterol to flowers is applied to eyes for checking blindness
phospholipid ratio and atherogenic index; and sight weakness and also promoting vision.
decrease lipidprofile of liver and increased the Flowers are use in leucorrhoea and also useful
excretion of faecal cholesterol. Pharmacological in all types of fever, periodic fever, small pox,
activities of Moringa oleifera flowers are detailed poisoning cases, biliousness and general debility
below: - Flowers of Moringa oleifera possess anti (Malviya et al., 2013). An anti-ageing treatment
hypertensitive, diuretic and cholesteriol lowering containing Sesbania grandiflora flower extract
activity (botanical.com). The aqueous and alcohol with heal wrinkles at the base and the surface of
extracts from Moringa oleifera flowers were also the skin. Increased collagen will smooth the base
found to have significant hepatoprotective effect of the wrinkle. It also contains tannins that will pull
due to the presence of quercetin, a well-known the surface edges of the wrinkle wound together
flavonoid (Rukmani et al., 1998). Pterygospermin for smoother appearing similar urogenital
has powerful antibacterial and fungicidal effect complaints. Sinus congestion is reduced by taking
on Moringa oleifera flower (Das et al., 1957). The a flower decoction. The flower juice is used as
flowers also are considered to be of high medicinal nasal drops of opposite side migraine (Yadav and
value with anthelmentic activity. The methanolic Trikun, 1997). The flower of Sesbania grandiflora
extract of flower buds showed antiulcerogenic also possess antimicrobial activity due to its
activity against aspirin induced gastric ulcer at a astringent nature.
dosage of 4 g/kg body weight. Hot water infusions 33. Syringa vulgaris: Lilac shows wide variation in
of flowers possess antiplasmodic activity (Goyal flavor -- from no flavor to green and herbaceous
and Agrawal, 2007). to lilac. It may have flowerish, lemony taste, floral,
23. Ocimum basilicum: Basil has an herbal flavor. pungent. Blossoms, petals are used in in salads
24. Passiflora spp.: Passion flower has a vegetal flavor. and crystallized with egg whites and sugar. It
Showy flowers best used as a garnish. reduces fever and can be used to get rid of internal
parasites (Jauron and Naeve, 2013).
25. Pelargonium spp.: Scented geraniums flavor is
usually similar to the scent of leaves. 34. Tagetes patula: Marigold is little bitter. Lemon
Gem and Tangerine Gem have the best flavor.
26. Phlox paniculata: Perennial phlox (Phlox
Tagetes patula, Tagetes tenuifolia, Tagetespatula
paniculata), not the annual, or the low-growing
x erecta) may be harmful in large amounts.
(creeping) phlox that is edible.
They should only be eaten occasionally and in
27. Rosa spp.: Rose has a sweet and perfumed flavor. moderation.
Remove the white, bitter base of the petal for
35. Tagetes signata: Signet marigold has a spicy,
consumption. Rose hips are rich in Vitamin – C.
herbal flavor. It may be harmful if eaten large
Sprinkle the petals on salads, use them as garnish,
amounts. They are rich in Vitamin – C.
or make them into wonderful rose-petal jelly. It
has anticancer, diuretic, laxative, ophthalmic, 36. Taraxacum: Dandelion has sweet flavor. It is
antirheumatic properties (Jauron and Naeve, a perennial plant. Use young flowers as mature
2013). flowers become bitter. These are sources of
Vitamins A and C and the greens are high in
28. Rosmarinus officinalis: Rosemary has an herbal
calcium, iron and phosphorous.
flavor.
37. Trifolium pretense: Red clover has a sweet flavor.
29. Salvia elegans: Pineapple sage has a sweet, fruity
Raw clover flowers are not easily digestible, an
flavor. Perennial species are consumed. Its flavor
excellent blood purifier and make a wonderful
has a hint of mint and spice.
tasting tea.
30. Salvia officinalis: Perennial sage has an herbal
38. Tropaeolum majus: Nasturtium has a splicy,
flavor.
peppery flavor. Peppery, zesty taste can be a
31. Sambucus canadensis: Elderberry has a sweet substitute for mustard. These are Rich in Vitamin
flavor. It is a perennial plant. Do not wash – C. Blossoms, leaves, whole flowers can be used in
flowers since it removes much of the flavor. It saladsorcureinvinegar,garnish. Ithasdisinfectant,
aids in digestion, reduce fevers and stimulate the wound-healing, antibiotic, expectorant torelieve
immune system. chest conditions, antiscorbutic and anticancer
32. Sesbania grandiflora: The flowers of Sesbania activities (Jauron and Naeve, 2013).
grandifloraare cooling, bitter, astringent, acrid, 39. Tulipa spp.: Tulip bulbs have a vegetal flavor,
emollient, laxative and antipyretic. The juice of

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National Conference on Floriculture for Rural and Urban Prosperity in the Scenario of Climate Change-2018

sweet lettuce, fresh baby peas, or cucumber-like. to their sourness, except violas, pansies and johnny
Petals (Some people are strongly allergic) are used jump-ups whose sepals are more tasteful. In many
in salads. It has antipyretic, anticancer, laxative, flowers (including rose, lavender, tulip, calendula, and
expectorant, depurative properties (Mlcek and chrysanthemum) only the petals are edible.
Rop, 2011).
40. Viola odorata: Violets have sweet, perfumed Post-harvest technologies:
flavor. These are used candied or fresh. It has Edible flowers are extremely perishable and very
anti-inflammatory properties and are good for delicate. After harvest, flowers are susceptible to petal
respiratory ailments. abscission, discoloration, wilting, dehydration and
41. Viola tricolor: It has a winter green flavor. The tissue browning. In this way, refrigeration of edible
petals have little flavor unless the green sepals are flowers before packaging for small trips, by keeping
included. It contains saponins and may be toxic in them in cold storage between 4 and 6 °C, can increase
large amounts. their durability from 2 to 5 days after harvest (Kou et al.,
2012). Nowadays, to protect flowers from desiccation
42. Viola x wittrockiana: Pansy has a vegetal flavor.
and to preserve their frail structure, they are typically
It has a slightly sweet green or grassy flavor and
packaged in small, rigid, plastic (or plastic wrapped)
perfumed taste. Petals have a mild flavor and
packages (Kelley et al., 2001c).
whole flower has a wintergreen flavor. It has
anti-inflammatory properties and are good for Toxic effects of edible flowers:
respiratory ailments. Whole flower can be used
in garnish, salad and tea. Used as medicine in While many flowers are safe and edible,
phytotherapy, skin diseases (Jauron and Naeve, including the flowers of most culinary herbs, proper
2013). identification is essential. Flowers from florists,
nurseries, or garden centres may have been treated
Harvesting of edible flowers: with pesticides not labelled for food crops and should
Edible flowers should be harvested in the cool of not be used even as a garnish. People with hay fever,
the day during the peak of bloom because they are asthma, or allergies should be cautious because allergic
in their best flavour. Only flowers free of insect and reactions can be triggered by the pollen of specific
disease problems should be selected. The collection plants. Most of the studies revealed that edible flowers
of unopened blossoms (except daylilies) and wilted were nontoxic at an appropriate dosage.
or faded flowers should be avoided because they may
Conclusion
have a bitter or unappealing flavour (Newman and
O’Connor, 2013). Flowers that have been sprayed with Edible flowers not only add colour to our plate
pesticides or that occur along roadsides, or flowers but also present numerous health benefits. Many
from plants that have been fertilized with untreated underutilized plant species possess multiple uses
manure must never be collected for eating purposes including their edible nature. There is a need to identify
because they can be toxic or cause illness due to the such plant species and work out suitable measures to
presence of pathogens. Concerning flowers’ parts, identify their properties. More researches should be
the stems, sepals, pistils and stamens of most flowers conducted to fully utilize edible flowers which will
should be removed prior to use. Pollen may detract ultimately increase the acceptability of edible flowers
flower’s flavour and may cause allergies in some people. as potential food ingredients and avoid the potential
The sepals should be removed from all flowers due hazards.

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National Conference on Floriculture for Rural and Urban Prosperity in the Scenario of Climate Change-2018

Turfgrass: A Billion Dollar Industry


S.L. Chawla*, Roshni Agnihotri, M.A. Patel, Sudha Patil and H.P. Shah
Department of Floriculture & Landscape Architecture
ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry
Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari (Gujarat)
*Dr. YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan (HP)
Email: shivlalchawla@yahoo.com

Importance of turfgrasses for mankind both service and beauty, a concept which originated
when man started to domesticate animals. Turfs
Turfgrasses are the primary vegetative covers
were developed by modern specialists in order to
on airports, athletic fields, cemeteries, churches,
further enhance the environment. Turf is the most
commercial buildings, golf courses, home lawns,
widely grown, most discussed, and least appreciated
schools, parks, and roadsides. While turfgrasses are
commodity in the United States. In discussing this
typically thought of for recreation and aesthetic value,
topic, such terms as “turf,” “turfgrass,” and “grass”
they also provide a valuable environmental service by
have been used through the years. By definition,
preventing soil erosion from wind and rain, reducing “turfgrasses are plants that form a more or less
runoff from rainfall, improving soil absorption of and continuous ground cover that persists under regular
infiltration of water, remediation of contaminated or mowing and traffic” according to Turgeon. Using this
polluted water, fire abatement, and other beneficial definition of turfgrass, there are less than 50 species
environmental impacts. Additionally, turfgrasses are of grasses which can be classified as turfgrasses.
an integral component of the landscape that positively Turgeon defines sod as the surface layer of turf
influences human behaviour characteristics like harvested for transplanting, such that sod consists of
improved ability to concentrate and self-discipline. the interconnected community of turfgrass plants,
Turf cover plays an integral role in various ecosystem the soil adhering to their roots and the underground
services like soil carbon sequestration, and mitigation organs of the turf.
of urban heat island effect. Turfgrass is a unique and
beautiful gift of nature that adds value to our daily lives. The turfgrass industry is diverse, consisting
of businesses and public-sector operations. Turf
What the future holds for the green industry industries have been defined in various ways including
geographic influence, scope and size, products,
The turfgrass and lawn care industry in many market and trade practices, human resources, and
developed nations continues to grow rapidly due public and political policies. Even though turfgrass
to strong demand for residential and commercial has experienced a long existence, it was not until the
property development, rising affluence, and the latter half of the 20th century that the turfgrass industry
environmental and aesthetic benefits of turfgrass in actually began booming. Thus, public and political
the urban landscape. Economic sectors of the industry policies are either new or currently being developed.
include sod farms, lawncare services, lawn and garden
retail stores, and lawn equipment manufacturing. A History of turfgrass research
major trend that global sports turf market is witnessing
As far as research done with turf and turfgrass,
in 2017 and will continue to observe covers the ongoing
Hanson and Juska stated that much of the initial
technological innovations. Intense competition and
work on the development and management of
high demand for quality playing surfaces have led turfgrasses was conducted by agronomists who had
to the creation of third-generation artificial turf that some training and experience in growing grasses for
imitates the look of natural grass. The third-generation pasture and forage. The first published report related
artificial turf has taken over the natural grass despite its to turfgrass research was initiated in 1880 by a noted
numerous disadvantages due to the missing impetus in botanist, Dr. W. J. Beal, of the Michigan Agricultural
turfgrass research from the horticulture community. Experiment Station. Interest in the science of turfgrass
To catch up with the increasing demand and replace culture began to manifest itself. Beard indicated that
the artificial turf from green grasses, we need to other projects were initiated at the Connecticut
reconsider the way we look at this green industry. Agricultural Experiment Station in 1886, the Rhode
Island Agricultural Experiment Station in 1905,
Introduction to turfgrass industry and the Arlington Turf Garden, Arlington, Virginia
Turf is one of the blessings of nature and includes in 1916.

30

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