This discussion of grass growth and regrowth assumes a suitable environment for plant development. Grass growth processes will not follow the stages described in this project when insufficient water, infertility, or other environmental factors stress the grass plants. When grass growth is stunted in some way, forage managers need to look at possible factors to determine what is lacking. Grass has been described as the healing balm for the wounds that Mother Nature suffers at the hand of mankind. Grass is very resilient and amazingly versatile, but growth and production is greatly affected by environmental factors. Unlike legumes, grasses cannot fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. Nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus are critical for grass growth. Other elements are also needed. Adequate and timely water will directly influence yield. Flooding and fires often will not eradicate grass and may have long-term positive effect but they will minimize seasonal production. Adequate drainage also is important. When studying about grass growth and subsequent regrowth after mowing or grazing, consider the environmental influences.
The influence of day length, temperature, vernalization, adaptation, tolerance to flooding, drainage capacities, heat, drought and frost all have impact on how a grass will grow and regrow. Each of these topics is a study in itself but, for now, awareness of their impact should be helpful in management decisions.