Progress Report on the Australian Flora Foundation funded project:
Dr Anthony Smith White, University of NSW
Glasshouse trials have been established at the University of NSW to evaluate the potential of Sporobolus virginicus as a lawn turf grass. S. virginicus, which is similar in appearance to lawn couch, is the most widespread salt marsh grass in Australia and is tolerant of high levels of salt in the soil. A total of 36 fine-leaved strains have been collected from as far south as Lake Wonboyn, near the Victorian border to Nambucca in the north. Plants will be watered regularly with 50% seawater and the growth habit and overall vigour will be measured.