In this dissertation studies, BdCBF genes that are involved in cold acclimation in Brachypodium distachyon are identified and differentially expressed cold-responsive genes in cbf3 mutants are analyze by RNA-seq analysis. In addition, a high throughput RNAi library by the Phi29-amplified RNAi construct (PARC) method from a creeping bentgrass cDNA library with mRNA from salt-treated tissue is constructed. Generation of AsBri1 loss-of-function mutants using the PARC method in creeping bentgrass has validated the PARC system. And disruption of BR reception results in reduced growth along with increased drought tolerance in creeping bentgrass. Furthermore, the brassinosteroid signaling network including implications of brassinosteroid on yield and stress tolerance is reviewed. These genomic studies provide insights into the pathways involved in cold acclimation, BR signaling and plant stress responses.