ALCA MEMBER PROFILE SOUTHWEST SOD
Southwest Sod
W
hich turfgrass do I like best? Well, that is like asking me my favorite type of tractor. All of our hybrid Bermuda grasses are top notch, which is why we have carried each variety for years. As farmers, we are not into fads or shiny, new trends. Our products are incredible, and these varieties have stood the test of time, much like our company, having operated in the Arizona desert for more than 30 years. As I look out at our beautiful green fields, I cannot help but think of a recent project, where a customer needs a variety that looks good, is easy to maintain, and can withstand high traffic and dogs. For this application, Midiron was the variety recommended, and the product has worked very well for our customers. We have recommended Midiron for years as a great option for homeowners, schools, commercial job sites, or areas where soil quality may not be ideal. With the proper care, Midiron can really enhance your client’s property. It also works like magic with dog urine!
Other customers like to have the best yard on the block, with the deepest green color and a soft blade structure. In these situations, Tifway is out go-to variety. While Tifway does require more attention than our other varieties, the end result can be very impressive. You may have seen Tifway on the golf courses as this variety is often used on the fairways. Others have used Tifway as a variety for ballparks because of its good looks. But we sure enjoy watching Tifway grow and thrive in our Southern Arizona fields. Sometimes Tifway gets all the attention, but Tifgreen should not be overlooked. This variety is one of our greatest hits. Put another way, it is one of our original varieties, and we sure are proud of the many contributions this turfgrass has made throughout our State. Golfers are happier because of Tifgreen and homeowners love this variety too. Like Midiron, this variety is tough and able to withstand the wear and tear of being a popular platform for kids, pets, and golfers alike. But, Tifgreen also has a nice, fine blade and is a shade greener, and a deeper green than Midiron. Midiron and Tifway need to be mowed once a week to an inch in height. Tifgreen enjoys being mowed two or three times a week. If the grass is allowed to grow for longer periods of time the mower will scalp the turf. This makes the sod susceptible to disease. The sharpness of the mower blades makes a big difference in the health of the plant stock. A well fertilized yard strengthens the plant as well as protects your lawn from drought, disease and weeds. In the spring and summer season when daylight increases, we suggest an application of something similar to 21-0-0 on a monthly basis. Nitrogen is the primary ingredient because the blades absorb a substantial amount of sunlight that helps your lawn maintain its deep green color. In the fall, overseeded sod prefers 16-20-0. It is a nitrogen and phosphorus blend. The shorter daylight hours mean the sod needs a nutrient source (phosphorus) to recharge its chlorophyll reserves. We recommend an application ever 4 to 6 weeks.
If you have raised these varieties as long as we have, you would have a hard time picking favorites too. These turfgrasses have enhanced curb appeal of our customers’ yards, and of course the safety and security this soft, natural platform has provided to many growing families and students alike. Call us if you have a question regarding our turf. Our varieties love the sunshine and do not like to be hidden beneath a tree. As you know, we enjoy watching the grass grow, so you don’t have to! For more information, please call us anytime at (602) 271-4266 or visit our website at southwestsod.com.
Professional, Personalized, and Experienced Guidance in the Sale and Acquisition of Arizona Businesses
Call me for a free one- hour consultation to discuss your business MACOR ASSOCIATES, INC. 602-989-9960 jmagrogan@macorassociates.com www.macorassociates.com
May/June 2022
T
Jim Magrogan
Designated Broker
THE ALCA INFLUENCE
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