Unbelievable Grass Facts: Are You In the Know?

Explore the intriguing world of grass with this engaging quiz! Perfect for lawn lovers or the curious, it will test your knowledge and unveil surprising facts about this common yet remarkable plant.

From oxygen production to grass species that thrive in Antarctica, you’ll uncover the secrets of grass that are sure to leave you amazed.

Let's see how much you really know!

Unbelievable Grass Facts: Are You In the Know?

Page 1 of 15

Question No. 1

How much oxygen can one acre of grass produce per day?

One acre of grass can produce enough oxygen for approximately ___ people daily. This is because grass, like all green plants, undergoes photosynthesis, a process that converts carbon dioxide and sunlight into oxygen and glucose. The significant oxygen production by grass highlights its ecological importance. Grass-covered areas not only contribute to air purification but also aid in carbon sequestration, capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which is crucial for mitigating climate change. According to studies, well-maintained lawns and grasslands can greatly impact improving urban air quality.

Enough for 64 people. Enough for 128 people. Enough for 256 people. Enough for 512 people.

Page 2 of 15

Question No. 2

What common food crop is actually a type of grass?

________ is a staple food for a significant portion of the world's population, is actually a type of grass. It belongs to the Poaceae family, which is one of the largest plant families. This family also includes other essential cereal crops like rice, corn, barley, and oats. It has been cultivated for thousands of years and is a primary source of carbohydrates. Its versatility makes it a key ingredient in various food products, including bread, pasta, and baked goods. Its cultivation and domestication have played a crucial role in the development of human civilisation.

Potato Wheat Tomato Carrot

Page 3 of 15

Question No. 3

What percentage of a grass leaf is made up of water?

Grass leaves are composed of _____________ water, making water a critical component of their structure. This high water content helps maintain the plant's turgidity, which is necessary for its upright growth and overall health. Water is vital for photosynthesis, the process by which grass and other plants produce food. Additionally, water aids in nutrient transport within the plant and helps regulate its temperature. Maintaining adequate water levels in grass is essential for its survival, especially during hot and dry conditions.

50% - 60% 65% - 70% 90% - 95% 75% - 85%

Page 4 of 15

Question No. 4

How much cooler can a natural green lawn be compared to synthetic grass on a hot day?

On a hot day, a natural green lawn can be up to ___ degrees Fahrenheit cooler than synthetic grass. This significant temperature difference is due to the natural cooling effect of the transpiration process in real grass. Transpiration involves water evaporation from the grass blades, which cools the surrounding air. In contrast, synthetic grass absorbs and retains heat from the sun, leading to much higher surface temperatures. This cooling effect makes natural grass more comfortable and safer for recreational activities during hot weather.

Up to 10 degrees cooler Up to 20 degrees cooler Up to 30 degrees cooler Up to 40 degrees cooler

Page 5 of 15

Question No. 5

How many accepted species of grass are there currently?

There are approximately ________ accepted species of grass, making it one of the most diverse plant families. The Poaceae family, to which all grasses belong, is widespread across various ecosystems, from urban lawns and agricultural fields to wild grasslands and forests. This diversity is attributed to the adaptability of grasses to different climates and soil conditions. The species range from small annuals to large bamboo, which can grow several feet high. Grass species play a vital role in ecosystems, serving as food sources for herbivores, preventing soil erosion, and contributing to the overall biodiversity .

5,000 8,500 11,500 15,000

Page 6 of 15

Question No. 6

Which type of grass has more genetic diversity, Zoysia or Buffalo?

______ grass exhibits more genetic diversity compared to the other grass. Genetic diversity is crucial for the adaptability and resilience of grass species, as it enhances their ability to withstand pests, diseases, and environmental stresses like drought. Its diverse genetic makeup makes it a preferred choice for lawns and golf courses, especially in regions with challenging weather conditions. It provides a dense, attractive turf with excellent wear tolerance, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. The broad genetic base also allows breeders to develop new varieties with improved traits .

Zoysia Buffalo

Page 7 of 15

Question No. 7

What is the most popular lawn decoration?

The _______ is considered the most popular lawn decoration. This iconic plastic ornament originated in the 1950s in the United States and quickly became a symbol of American suburban culture. It gained popularity due to its bright color and whimsical appearance, often used to add a playful or kitschy element to garden landscapes. While it has faced periods of being seen as tacky, it has made comebacks in popularity, especially as a symbol of retro style and humor in garden design.

Gnomes Birdbaths Pink Flamingos Garden statues

Page 8 of 15

Question No. 8

Who wrote the first lawn care book, and when was it published?

The first lawn care book, titled The Art of Beautifying Suburban Home Grounds, was written by ________ and published in ____. This seminal work provided comprehensive guidance on lawn care, gardening, and landscaping, marking the beginning of lawn care as a formal practice. His book offered practical advice on planting, maintaining, and nurturing lawns, contributing to the widespread adoption of manicured lawns in suburban America. The book's publication coincided with the rise of the suburban lifestyle, where a well-maintained lawn became a status symbol .

Andrew Jackson Downing, 1865 Frederick Law Olmsted, 1858 Frank J. Scott, 1870 William Kent, 1835

Page 9 of 15

Question No. 9

____. While the cold, harsh environment of Antarctica limits plant life, some hardy species of grass can still be found there. One such species is Deschampsia antarctica, known as Antarctic hair grass. Grasses have adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions, from the tropical heat of rainforests to the frigid zones of the polar regions. This adaptability makes grasses one of the most successful plant groups, covering about 20% of the Earth's terrestrial surface .

Yes No, except Antarctica No, except Africa No, except Africa

Page 10 of 15

Question No. 10

TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda was selected from almost _____ Bermuda turf varieties. This selection process involved rigorous testing for traits like drought resistance, color retention, and durability under various environmental conditions. TifTuf stands out for its superior drought tolerance, requiring less water than other Bermuda grass types. Its selection and development by the University of Georgia Turfgrass Breeding Program showcase the extensive research efforts to improve turfgrass performance for residential and commercial use .

5,000 10,000 20,000 30,000

Page 11 of 15

Question No. 11

What is the primary benefit of TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda compared to other grasses?

Faster growth rate Less water requirement Higher resilience to cold More aesthetic appearance

Page 12 of 15

Question No. 12

What is the name of the grass species found in Antarctica?

The grass species found in Antarctica is called ______________, commonly known as Antarctic hair grass. It is one of the only two flowering plant species native to Antarctica, the other being Colobanthus quitensis (Antarctic pearlwort). It has adapted to the extreme cold and short growing seasons of the Antarctic environment. It can survive harsh conditions, including freezing temperatures and strong winds, by growing close to the ground and forming dense clumps that provide some protection against the elements .