Turfgrass scientist John Trey Rogers has spent six years preparing the grass for the World Cup pitches.
Using three species of grass, Rogers and his collaborators determined the best type, or combination, for each stadium.
The process is complicated by the fact that five stadiums have domes, dramatically reducing the amount of sunlight available.
AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor.
When the World Cup starts next week, no one will be watching the pitch more closely than John Trey Rogers. The players will have their eyes on the ball; the referees will be studying the gameplay. Rogers will be focused on the grass beneath their feet.
