Alabama Turf Times - Winter 2020

Winter 2020

HERBICIDE RESEARCH UPDATE: PINOXADEN Plus, MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

on Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, Jimmy Pursell, Sr.

UPGRADE TO FIRST CLASS 38% Less Water Greater Fall Color Retention

Earlier Spring Transition Increased Wear Tolerance

Reduced Fertility Requirement Extremely Rapid Grow-In

www.TheTurfgrassGroup.com

Winter 2020

TOP FEATURES ATA Member Spotlight — 8 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient

8

Jimmy Pursell, Sr.

Cover Story — 10 Herbicide Research Update: Pinoxaden

Feature Article — 14 Updated Seed and Sod Certification Standards including the Process for Certification

Recent Event — 18 Deep South Turf Expo 14

Upcoming Events — 22 ATA Road Shows DEPARTMENTS 6

From the President’s Pen

6

ATA Annual Sponsors

13

Calendar of Events

17

Index of Advertisers

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

18

www.AlaTurfgrass.org 4

The Alabama Turfgrass Association serves its members in the industry through education, promotion and representation.

The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, or its board of directors, Alabama Turf Times, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as Alabama Turfgrass Association members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this quarterly publication. Copyright © 2019 by the Alabama Turfgrass Association. Alabama Turf Times is published quarterly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of the Alabama Turfgrass Association. Third-class postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs. Contact the managing editor for contribution information. Advertising: For display and classified advertising rates and insertion please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com

G

NOW GROWIN

SERvING TUSCAlOOSA, BIRMINGhAM, CENTRAl AlABAMA & SURROUNdING STATES. Family owned and operated for three generations, we have served the needs of athletic fields, golf courses, landscapers and homeowners for over 25 years.

We grow high quality turf grass on three farms in Alabama and offer fast turnaround times to satisfy our customer’s needs.

As well as Tifway Bermuda, Centipede, Emerald Zoysia and Meyer Zoysia

Contact Us Today!

(334) 872-6644

www.SouthDallasTurf.com SouthDallasTurf@yahoo.com 1690 Kings Bend Road • Selma, Alabama 36701

PROVIDING THE BEST SELECTION OF TURF AND LANDSCAPE PRODUCTS, COMPETITIVE PRICES, AND EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE. 5215 FAIRGROUND DR. | MARION, MS | 800-395-2580 5

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

BW I CO M PA N I E S

From the President’s Pen >>>

GET INVOLVED

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

H

ello ATA members! I’d like to introduce myself and speak on what makes ATA a great resource and an association that you should invite colleagues to join. My name is Deven Peek, the incoming president. In my career, I have held different roles — laborer, manager, owner, and now my current role, Ag Teacher. I have big shoes to fill as Kim Byram, a friend, colleague, and mentor moves into the Past President’s role.

Kim Byram was our 2019 President. Kim brings years of knowledge to ATA and is always an open book or resource for anyone. On behalf of the Board and all members, I want to say thank you for everything, Kim. I would also like to thank all board members as they have put in countless hours to make sure all events run smoothly. Lastly, I want to thank Melanie and Tricia because without them most of the things would not get done. They truly put in a ton of unseen hours and miles to make our association strong.

As the end of the year approaches, it means a few things for us in the industry: a time to breathe and a little more time for family. We faced a rough year with high temperatures and drought conditions. Many of you did great work in preparing and responding to these conditions. The first step to a great year is a solid and healthy foundation. Take this time of year to focus on your foundation so you can produce the best product you can. One opportunity during this time of year is a chance to take care of those CEU’s and further your education. We just wrapped up the Deep South Turf Expo in Biloxi, Mississippi. This has been a great event with many associations working closely together to deliver a top notch event focused on education and fellowship. All our vendors and attendees make this event possible and we thank you for your continued support and cooperation.

We try to schedule most of our ATA events during down times of the year, and we would love for everyone to participate. A program series we offer is the Road Shows in six locations. This is another great way to get pesticide points and a good time to bring your crews. These programs are tailored for entry level employees to understand while still providing the latest research in an abbreviated format to stimulate your professional interest! No matter where you or your crew members are on their professional journey, it would be beneficial to attend.

In addition to the Road Shows, this year we will rotate our annual Field Day to Sports Turf. These programs were designed to give hands-on, real world educational opportunities to all, along with demos by some of our best vendors. On March 11, 2020, The City of Florence Parks and Recreation Department will host our 2020 Sports Turf Field Day. Thanks to ATA member Kevin Tingle, Sports Turf Manager for the City of Florence, for inviting us to Coffee O’Neal Sports Complex for this great full-day event.

As you can see, we have numerous activities going on all year with ATA. We hope that you will take the time to maximize your membership and work on your personal foundation for the upcoming year. Again, ATA members are a great group of people who are willing to be a resource, but ultimately you have to take that first step to get involved.

Deven Peek

2020 ATA ANNUAL SPONSORS GOLD • Bayer Environmental Science • Beard Equipment Company • Greenville Turf & Tractor • Harrell’s, Inc. • Jerry Pate Turf & Irrigation • Simplot, Inc. • Textron Golf

SILVER • BWI Companies • Corteva – Dow Agrosciences • Ewing • Residex • SiteOne Landscape Supply • Syngenta

BRONZE • AGRI-AFC, LLC • Agromax • Aquatrols • BASF • Diamond R Fertilizers • Humphries Turf Supply • Nufarm, Inc. • PBI-Gordon • Southern States Turf

6

Sincerely,

• Sur-Line Turf

Deven Peek

• Walker Mowers

ATA 2020 President

• Wright Mowers

Alabama Turf Times is the official publication of the: Alabama Turfgrass Association P.O. Box 70 Auburn, Alabama 36831 Tel: (334) 821-3000 Fax: (334) 821-3800 Email: mailbox@alaturfgrass.org www.alaturfgrass.org Published by: Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, Tennessee 37064 Tel: (615) 790-3718 Fax: (615) 794-4524 Email: info@leadingedge communications.com Executive Director Melanie Bonds Alabama Turf Times Editor James Horton EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President Deven Peek Full Bloom Landscapes

Vice President Joe Collins, CSFM

Riebeling Farms, Inc. Palmetto St. Augustine • Empire Zoysia Centipede Sod • Delivery Available

251-943-6012

20732 Hadley Rd. • Foley, AL. 36535

Southern Specialty Equipment, Inc. New, Used & Refurbished • Ease of Operation • Low Operating Costs • Single Axle Truck Use

Solid & Dependable Rotary Finishing Mowers

Samford University

Past President Kim Byram

University of Alabama

Wide Range of Solutions

Secretary/Treasurer Ben Anderson

Jim Brewster Office Phone:

(877) 366-5399 Mobile Phone:

(352) 284-8029 jim@ssequip.net www.ssequip.net

Arrowhead Country Club

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Golf Brad Barron Wynlakes Country Club

Industry Jim Crockett

DIGITAL MARKETPLACE Scan the QR code: Download your favorite QR reader to your phone and scan the code to learn more about this company.

Nufarm

Institution David White

UAB Campus Services

Lawn Reynolds Cook Southern Lawns

Park & Rec Heath Puckett, CGCS Guntersville State Park

Sod Randall Murphy Murphy Turf Farms

At Large Darrel Arnold

For franchise information go to www.weedmanfranchise.com or call (888) 321-9333

Heritage Lawn & Tree Care

Tony Culberson

Bayer Environmental

To discuss advertising opportunities, contact Leading Edge Communications:

City of Alabaster Parks & Rec

EX OFFICIO/EDUCATION ADVISORS David Han, Ph.D. Auburn University (334) 844-3980 handavi@auburn.edu

Jim Jacobi, Ph.D.

Alabama Cooperative Extension System (205) 879-6964, Ext. 19 jacobjc@auburn.edu

615-790-3718 888-707-7141 (TOLL FREE)

sales@leadingedgecommunications.com www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com 7

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

Ben Williams

ATA Member Spotlight >>>

JIMMY PURSELL ACHIEVING A LASTING LEGACY THROUGH OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S CALL

By Melanie Bonds, sourced from Finding the Ultimate Multiplier: The Story of Jimmy Pursell by Harold Fickett

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

Mr.

James Taylor Pursell, Sr., “Jimmy,” was born in 1930 in Talladega, Alabama to a family of educators. His father was principal at a local school and his mother a teacher.

From these humble beginnings Jimmy began a journey that ultimately ended with success on the widest scale.

He and his family have made invaluable contributions to the turfgrass industry in our state, the nation and the world.

Jimmy attended Talladega High School where his athletic record was impressive. He could run the 100yard dash in under ten seconds. Unfortunately, playing football in a game against the Sylacauga Aggies in 1947, Jimmy broke his leg. Jimmy’s injury made him a local celebrity. Many well-wishers came to see him in the hospital, and the Sylacauga High School contingent was led by Jim Nabors. Nabors and Jimmy became fast friends.

Nabors introduced Jimmy to Chris Parker. Jimmy had enrolled in Auburn University and was majoring in business when they met. They quickly became serious. Jimmy began to think about his future career since he planned to marry Chris. However, the outbreak of the Korean War sealed his immediate plans with a stint in the military. As a college graduate, Jimmy enrolled in the Air Force Cadet Program.

Receiving his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1953, he and Chris were finally able to marry. Their first son, James Taylor, Jr., was born while Jimmy was serving his country.

Toward the end of his years of military service, Chris’s father, Howard, asked Jimmy to go to work for Parker Fertilizer Company. Started by Howard Parker Senior’s father, the company was formed when cotton was king. Parker was a successful man who led his company to success in volatile times. What set him apart from many others, and a trait that his son-in-law Jimmy Pursell shared, was his foresight. He recognized that the days of cotton’s dominance were coming to an end.

Jimmy was given the option of taking over sales for a new line of lawn and garden fertilizers called StaGreen. Sta-Green marketed a slow-release, nitrogenbased product. The margins were huge in lawn and

8

garden as compared to agriculture. Jimmy opened up substantial markets throughout the Southeast.

Jimmy and Chris had settled well in Sylacauga and began to grow their family. A daughter named Chris was born and their younger son, David, was born in 1959. Sadly, Mr. Parker, Sr. passed away in 1964.

In a time when many young people were leaving their hometowns for better opportunities in the city, the Parker and Pursell families were coalescing around the family business in Sylacauga. Mr. Parker directed that Jimmy Pursell was made President of Parker Fertilizer Company. Howard, Jr. was made President of the Sylacauga Bonded Warehouse. Unfortunately, Mr. Parker’s well-thought-out plans came to a tragic end when Howard Parker, Jr. passed away unexpectedly with an aneurysm in the spring of 1966.

At this time, Jimmy bought out the company, saying, “If I was going to devote my life to the company, I wanted to be my own boss and do my own thing.” The loss of the Howards, Senior and Junior, was felt deeply, but Jimmy Pursell steadily grew the company while Chris maintained the home front. The Pursell children began working with the company when they were old enough, starting from the “ground up,” literally.

In 1973 Jimmy learned about the Tennessee Valley Authority experimenting with a new type of fertilizer, Sulphur Coated Urea (SCU). The opportunity to be one of the first suppliers of the product would catapult the company to a national market share. Testing was successful and when TVA went into production in 1974, Parker Fertilizer bought the first rail car of it.

Jimmy and his wife Chris

the state and utilized this property to build a headquarters and construct FarmLinks Golf Club.

David Pursell saw the utility of the golf course as a marketing vehicle. FarmLinks opened as the world’s first—and only—research-and-demonstration golf course in 2003. The governor of Alabama and old friend, Jim Nabors, were in attendance.

In 2012 Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences presented Jimmy and Chris Pursell with its Lifetime Achievement Award, saying: Success is measured by embodying the values of hard work, education, love of country, obedience to law and soundness of mind, body and spirit…

Jimmy and Chris Pursell, as individuals and as a couple are the gold standard for what it truly means to live the exemplary life…

Perhaps the best testament to Mr. Jimmy Pursell are the words from his son, David, published in Finding the Ultimate Multiplier, The Story of Jimmy Pursell by Harold Fickett: My dad is one of the most outgoing people I have ever met. If a picture were to appear in the Webster’s Dictionary by the word extrovert, it would be of my dad. To this day he never meets a stranger…He was and is a steady, committed family man and one of the most generous people I’ve ever met…My dad is also a straight-up honest man. He would always do the right thing.

The Board of Directors of the Alabama Turfgrass Association can think of no more fitting candidate to receive its Lifetime Achievement Award. Mr. Jimmy Pursell has been a steadfast and staunch supporter of our Industry. It was with honor that we dedicated this award to him in 2019.

9

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

While Parker Fertilizer began its adventure with SCU, Taylor Pursell started school at Auburn University.

Influenced by John “Rat” Riley, Taylor underwent a conversion to Christianity that would direct the future of the family and the company. In 1976 Jimmy assembled his company and told his employees that he was dedicating the company to Christ. Everything within the company was to be run with Christian principles.

This path did not fail them as the company continued to grow. Chris and David each completed their degrees at Auburn and went into the family business.

Crucial decisions were made during this time in the eighties—decisions that would turn the family-owned company into a national powerhouse. Jimmy hired the Auburn Technical Assistance Center to overhaul and streamline the company. Jimmy wanted his company to be a “basic” manufacturer of their products. He thought there might be a better way to deliver the time-release fertilizer. He hired Ray Shirley, who had experience with manufacturing, to help implement this plan. Jimmy soon had his fertilizer plant up and running.

When the new sulfur-coated urea plant came online in 1985 it was only the fourth such plant built in the U.S. The Pursells began to look at a marketing technique of personal demonstrations developed by Lowe’s.

Why not use this idea in the Sylacauga countryside?

Small parties of key people were invited to visit Sylacauga for tours of the fertilizer plant and an educational presentation. The “Experience” was born.

While SCU fertilizers were superior to the nitrogenbased mixes, they could not be engineered to serve the different growth cycles of different plants. Jimmy’s company transformed this system with technological innovation. Through a trade journal, Jimmy was introduced to John Detrick, who was developing a polymer (plastic) coating for fertilizer granules. The thickness could be varied to exact tolerances and gradually released. Jimmy bought the patent rights. Parker Fertilizer Company became Pursell Industries and the company broke ground on a multimillion-dollar production facility in 1991. The brand name Polyon® was born.

From 1992 — 1997 Pursell Industries Polyon® enjoyed incredible success. The company grew to around $90 million in sales and was operating in two distinctive divisions: consumer and technology. In 1996 a public company approached the company with an offer to purchase the consumer group. Eventually, Taylor Pursell partnered with Citicorp Venture Capital and purchased the consumer company with Jimmy renaming the remaining company, Pursell Technologies, Inc. With the division of the company, new office space was needed. The Pursells were in possession of around 3,500 acres of some of the most beautiful country in

Cover Story >>>

PINOXADEN

By John Peppers (Graduate Research Assistant) Scott McElroy (Alumni Professor) and Jim Harris (Research Associate)

P

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

inoxaden is a new active ingredient that was released

by Syngenta for turfgrass use in September of 2018 under the trade name Manuscript. Pinoxaden is a member of the phenylpyrazolin chemical family, the third family in the group that includes the aryloxyphenoxypropionates (FOPs) and the cyclohexanediones (DIMs). This herbicide group makes up the ACCase inhibiting herbicides (HRAC Group 1) which are also known as the graminicides because they are only active on grass species. These herbicides kill grasses by preventing the production of lipids. Pinoxaden was previously sold in the U.K. until June 2018, under the trade name Rescue for control of Poa trivialis and Lolium spp. within fescue systems.

The current label for Manuscript allows for use in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) and zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp.) in all areas except putting greens. It is also labelled for St. Augustinegrass

10

(Stenotaphrum secundatum), but only in sod production where turfgrass injury can be tolerated. The label claims that Manuscript can control tropical signalgrass (Urochloa subquadripara), crabgrass (Digitaria spp.) and bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum). Dallisgrass (Paspalum dilatatum) is also labelled for control with Manuscript, but it is recommended that applications be made in the late spring or early fall while the dallisgrass is actively growing and not under drought stress. Manuscript can also be used to suppress torpedograss (Panicum repens) and seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum).

The maximum broadcast spray rate is 19.2 fl. oz/a and the maximum spot spray rate is 83.6 fl. oz/a. No more than 10,000 ft2 per acre can be treated with Manuscript. The addition of the adjuvant Adigor, at a 0.5 % v/v rate, is recommended for all applications of Manuscript.

Nontreated Raleigh St. Augustinegrass

Raleigh St. Augustinegrass treated with Manuscript (42fl oz/a) plus chlorothalonil at 140 fl oz/a

Raleigh St. Augustinegrass treated with Manuscript alone at 42fl oz/a

Raleigh St. Augustinegrass treated with Manuscript (42fl oz/a) plus propiconazole at 44 fl oz/a

At Auburn, we have screened nine different grassy weed seedlings in greenhouse experiments to determine Manuscript efficacy on these weeds. These species include yellow foxtail (Setaria pumila), annual bluegrass (Poa annua), roughstalk bluegrass (Poa trivialis), large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis), dallisgrass (Paspalum dilatatum), goosegrass (Eleusine indica), southern sandbur (Cenchrus echinatus), bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum) and perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne). Good control (>80%) was found at maximum labeled rates and lower for yellow foxtail, Poa trivialis, large crabgrass, dallisgrass, bahiagrass, southern sandbur and perennial ryegrass. Notably, Poa annua and goosegrass were very tolerant requiring much higher rates to show injury. The weed species examined can be ordered from most to least susceptible as such: perennial ryegrass, yellow foxtail, dallisgrass, southern sandbur, large crabgrass, roughstalk bluegrass, bahiagrass, goosegrass and annual bluegrass.

In the field, preliminary results indicate that there is a differential response between cultivars of St. Augustinegrass to Manuscript. The cultivars Floratam and Raleigh are less susceptible to injury than Palmetto and Classic. We have focused on making Manuscript safer for use on St. Augustinegrass by using it in combination with several other pesticides.

Potential safeners include the ALS inhibiting herbicides halosulfuron (Sedgehammer) and metsulfuron (Manor), along with the fungicides chlorothalonil (Daconil Weatherstik)

and propiconazole (Banner Maxx). In 2018, halosulfuron, metsulfuron and chlorothalonil reduced Manuscript injury when combined in a tank mixture. Manuscript tank mixed with Banner Maxx injured St. Augustinegrass the same as Manuscript alone did. However, in 2019, halosulfuron, metsulfuron, chlorothalonil and propiconazole all reduced Manuscript injury to St. Augustinegrass when applied in combination. Unfortunately, combinations of Manuscript with Sedgehammer, Manor and Daconil Weatherstik all antagonized Manuscript control of smooth crabgrass when applied as a tank mixture. Manor tank mixed with Manuscript was the most antagonistic with virtually no smooth crabgrass control or injury noted two weeks after application.

Halosulfuron and Daconil Weatherstik combinations with Manuscript partially controlled smooth crabgrass, but Manuscript applications alone were much more effective.

Another research question that is being examined concerns application timing for optimal control of crabgrass. Results in 2018 indicated that Manuscript, applied at the 1–3 tiller stage, effectively controls smooth crabgrass with either one or two applications at 41.8 fl. oz/a. However, a single application made at the 4–7 tiller stage barely injured smooth crabgrass. Two applications of Manuscript at the 4–7 tiller stage injured the crabgrass more than the single application, but still resulted in virtually no control of the smooth crabgrass.

In 2019, both single and sequential applications made to 1–3

Nontreated Floratam St. Augustinegrass

Floratam St. Augustinegrass treated with Manuscript (42fl oz/a) plus halosulfuron at 1oz/a

Floratam St. Augustinegrass treated with Manuscript alone at 42fl oz/a

Floratam St. Augustinegrass treated with Manuscript (42fl oz/a) plus metsulfuron at 0.75 oz/a

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

11

Cover Story >>> Continued

tiller stage smooth crabgrass resulted in complete control.

Single applications made at the 4–7 tiller stage were also ineffective in 2019. However, sequential applications to 4–7 tiller smooth crabgrass controlled the smooth crabgrass much more in 2019 than they did in 2018.

More research is needed to fully understand how application timing effects Manuscript’s control of crabgrass.

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

Nontreated smooth crabgrass on June 7, 2018

12

Also, more research is needed to determine if Manuscript is antagonized by other ALS inhibiting herbicides and what the physiological basis for the antagonism is. Work needs to be done in order to determine why Daconil Weatherstik reduces Manuscript injury. For end users, the best course of action to take with Manuscript is to avoid tank mixtures that have not been confirmed safe-to-use.

Smooth crabgrass treated with Manuscript at 42fl oz/a 14 days after treatment (June 7)

Calendar of Events >>>

GroWers oF QuAlITY TurF sInce 1987 January 7

Montgomery Road Show

January 13 – 16

Sports Turf Managers Association Conference

coosA VAlleY TurF FArms llc

January 15 – 17

Alabama Nursery and Landscape Association Gulf States Horticultural Expo Mobile Convention Center Mobile, AL

MeMber of

January 20 – 21

AGCSA Assistant’s Meeting Vestavia Country Club

January 22

Loxley Road Show

January 25 – 30

GIS Conference and Show Orlando, FL

February 5

Dothan Road Show

February 12

Birmingham Road Show

February 19

Auburn Road Show

February 26

Huntsville Road Show

March 11

Sports Turf Field Day Coffee O'Neal Sports Complex Florence, AL

TIFWAY 419

Fescue

www.coosaValleyTurfFarms.com (256) 927-4228 • (256) 927-4758 FAX • cvtf@tds.net 900 county road 492 • centre, Al 35960

Big Roll TuRf TuBes

Poa Annua in Conjunction with Auburn Field Day

November 3 – 5

heavy Duty papeR tubeS

100% Recycled paper

RD MuRphy LLC Sales: (256) 762-3564 info@rdmurphy.com www.rdmurphy.com

Deep South Turf Expo

Mississippi Coast Convention Center Biloxi, MS 13

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

July

Feature Story >>>

Turfgrass

CERTIFICATION

By Dr. Jim Bostick, Executive Vice President, AL Crop Improvement & So. Seed Certification Assns.

The

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

Southern Seed Certification Association, Inc. (hereafter called the Association or SSCA) is a non-profit organization incorporated under laws of the State of Alabama. It is designated as the official seed certifying agency for Alabama and Florida pursuant to laws of both States and is a member of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA). SSCA's seed certifying activities work under AOSCA's standards and procedures which are specified in part 210.68 through 201.78 of the Federal Seed Act (7 U.S.C. 1561 (a) (24). SSCA is not a marketing agency but does issue certification labels and certificates based upon a presumption of accuracy of information provided to the agency and on conclusions reached by competent SSCA personnel employing accepted procedures of field and handling equipment inspections. Certification is limited to propagating material of officially recognized varieties that are grown and inspected so as to maintain varietal identity and genetic purity.

The purpose carried forth by SSCA is to maintain and make available to the public, through certification, high quality seeds and propagating materials of superior crop varieties so grown and distributed as to maintain genetic identity and purity. The word "seed" or "seeds" as used in SSCA's program is understood to include all propagating material, such as seed, turfgrass (rolls, slabs, sprigs or plugs), cuttings or bulbs.

Some terminology unique to seed certification includes, but is not limited to the following four classes of seed: 1. Breeder Seed (White Tag or Certificate) Breeder seed of a new and novel variety developed in a plant breeding program are controlled by the owner of the variety and are used for the production of the next class of seed in The Certification Program which is Foundation Seed.

2. Foundation Seed (White Tag or Certificate) Foundation seed is the progeny of Breeder or Foundation seed produced under the control of the originator or sponsoring plant breeding institution, or person or appointed designee. Foundation seed are produced under procedures established by SSCA for the purpose of maintaining purity and identity.

3. Registered Seed (Purple Tag or Certificate) Registered seed are the progeny of Breeder or Foundation seed handled and produced under standards established by SSCA for the purpose of maintaining purity and identity.

4. Certified Seed (Blue Tag or Certificate) Certified seed are the progeny of Breeder, Foundation or Registered seed grown under standards established by SSCA for the purpose of maintaining purity and identity.

14

ESTABLISHMENT OF CERTIFICATION STANDARDS

AOSCA establishes minimum certification standards for all crops under certification for all member certifying agencies.

Each member agency may establish more stringent standards but not less stringent for any crop. AOSCA's purpose is to maintain uniformity in certification programs across all member agencies. Certification standards are living documents subject to changes, revisions and updates as needs and practices of seed production are changed and modified as agricultural practices and technology advances. Our own SSCA Turfgrass Certification Standards have recently undergone a rather extensive review resulting in revisions that more clearly reflect our goals in the certification program.

Inspectors have gone through training short courses that help refresh and redefine inspection techniques and turfgrass variety descriptors, that keep SSCA personnel abreast of new varieties and appropriate technology in the turfgrass industry.

Breeding programs are developing new varieties to answer the needs and request of the turfgrass consuming public.

New varieties that are drought or shade tolerant have been developed for the homeowner market. Other varieties have been developed specifically for the sports turf or golf course market and are being produced through certification to maintain their desirable characteristics.

Our SSCA turfgrass certification program currently consist of approximately 4800 acres of production on 45 farms located all across Alabama and Florida. The certified production acreage is comprised of 4 types of grasses i.e., Bermuda, Paspalum, St. Augustine and Zoysia and over thirty grass varieties that can be found on our web site, www.ag.auburn.edu/ssca under Turf Directory.

Our Standards require at least 3 field inspections per calendar year of all of the turfgrass acreage within our certification program. During the inspection, the inspector is looking for the field to meet items prescribed in our standards which maintain quality such as adequate isolation distance, varietal mixtures or off-type grass and the presence of noxious weeds. The inspector carries wire mounted flags during the inspection. If areas in the field are found that do not meet certification standards, they are to be flagged so the producer can quickly correct the infraction in order to bring the field back into compliance for re-inspection prior to harvest. If the problem areas are extensive, the inspector may elect to reject that acreage from certification, in which case the producer will be notified of such decision prior to harvest.

HARVEST

Once the field(s) have successfully passed the 3 field inspections they are eligible to be harvested and marketed as

A clean field of Certified Turfgrass

A silt fence between two Certified fields for isolation

An inspector has flagged an "off-type" or varietal mixture spot for rouging or spraying out

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

15

Feature Story >>> Continued

certified turfgrass. At that time, SSCA will issue certification certificates to the producer for the field(s). To complete the certification process, the producers must complete a certification certificate for each order, stating the variety, date of harvest and the amount harvested. The certificate is to accompany the load as it is transported to the customer. If the certificate does not accompany the load, then the sod being delivered is not officially certified.

SUMMARY OF TURFGRASS CERTIFICATION PROCEDURES: 1. Review the Southern Seed Certification Association's Standards and Regulations for Certified Turfgrass before planting a crop for certified production.

2. Check the certification rules for a particular crop kind to determine if the field(s) intended for certified production meet requirements for previous crop history and isolation from other kinds and varieties and noncertifiable fields of the same variety.

3. Thoroughly treat field(s) with an appropriate soil fumigant before planting a crop for certified production or employ the alternative method to fumigation as explained on page 8 of SSCA's General Turf Standards.

4. Plant Breeder, Foundation or Registered class propagating material of varieties that are eligible for certification or

Daily Regional DeliveRy Tennessee Kentucky

that will be submitted for eligibility determination before harvest for certification is allowed.

5. Clean the planting equipment before planting each variety intended for Certification.

6. Submit an Application for Field Inspection by appropriate due date of February 1 of each year.

7. Rogue the field(s) of other crops, other varieties and noxious and inseparable weeds, if necessary.

8. Be certain that the field(s) have been finally inspected by an SSCA representative before beginning harvest and understand any instructions or restrictions that may affect the manner of harvest.

9. Clean all handling equipment and storage facilities before exposing them to Certifiable material. These include harvesters, planters, wagons, trucks, pallets, loaders, offloaders, etc.

10. The certification process is complete only when turfgrass is properly identified with an approved Certification label, or a properly completed certification certificate accompanies shipment.

SSCA's certification program is voluntary and available to all who want to participate and follow the established standards and regulations. Certification programs capture and extend plant breeding advancements to the general public that could be lost without such a system.

The Southeast’s

800.782.4083 | midtennturf.com

PReFeRReD SouRCe for SoD & SeRviCe Since 1986

north Carolina South Carolina

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

georgia alabama ••• Residential Commercial golf athletic Fields

16

Blue Tag Certified grasses ••• over 2,500 acres in Production

Index of Advertisers >>>

Andersons..................................................21 www.andersonsplantnutrient.com BWI Companies, Inc.................................. 5 www.bwicompanies.com Coosa Valley Turf Farms..........................13 www.coosavalleyturffarms.com CoverSports USA...................................... 19 www.coversports.com Greenville Turf & Tractor, Inc............... Inside Back Cover www.greenvilleturf.com KWMI / K & W Products, Inc............... Back Cover www.KWMIequipment.com Leading Edge Communications............. 22 www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com Mid Tenn Turf.......................................... 16 www.midtennturf.com Progressive Turf Equipment Inc..............12 www.progressiveturfequip.com Pure Green Sports Turf.......................... 19 www.puregreenllc.com RD Murphy, LLC........................................13 www.rdmurphy.com Regal Chemical Company........................ 3 www.regalchem.com Riebeling Farms, Inc.................................. 7 Smith Seed Services.................................. 5 www.smithseed.com South Dallas Turf Farm............................ 5 www.SouthDallasTurf.com Southeast Turf Maintenance..................17 www.southeastturf.com Southern Specialty Equipment................ 7 www.ssequip.net

The Turfgrass Group......Inside Front Cover www.theturfgrassgroup.com TriEst Ag Group, Inc.................................21 www.hendrixanddail.com Weed Man.................................................. 7 www.weedmanfranchise.com

Southeast Turf utilizes the best deep aerification equipment available today to address any type of turf aerification need, including Deep Drill and Drill & Fill.

Randy Emens 256-255-5231 • SouthEastTurf.com • seturfmaint@gmail.com 211 Skyline Road • Madison, AL 35758 17

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

Sur-Line Turf, Inc......................................17 www.surlineturf.com

Recent Event >>>

Something

OLD NEW

Dr. Jim Kerns from NC State presented our Tradeshow Talk, pictured here with sponsor, Mike Jones, CGCS of BASF

AND

Something

Dr. Beth Guertal Debunks Common Fertilizer Myths to a packed house

FOR THE FIFTH

A busy Trade Show floor

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

The

Deep South Turf Expo celebrated its fifth year in Biloxi, September 30th through October 3rd, 2019! The Expo was a combination of the traditional components which have made it a success since its inception in 2014, as well as a few innovations to make things interesting!

As always, we had a great education program that qualified for CEU points from most regions in the Southeast. Keynote speakers on Wednesday included Dr. Beth Guertal, Auburn University, Dr. Bruce Clarke of Rutgers University and Dr. Justin Moss of Oklahoma State University. Rodney Smith, Jr., an inspirational speaker who has strong roots in turf, wrapped up the morning sessions.

Dr. Guertal began by setting the record straight with Fertilizers Demystified: Debunking Common Myths. Dr. Clarke spoke on commercially available plant activators and the beneficial microbes that are present in the turfgrass microbiome and Dr. Moss provided an overview of urban/municipal water conservation programming with specific examples of importance for turfgrass managers. Rodney Smith, Jr. moistened a few eyes as he described his journey to form his nonprofit, Raising Men Lawn Care, which was formed for the

18

Rodney Smith, Jr. shares the mission and purpose of his nonprofit, Raising Men Lawn Care Trade Show lunch sponsored by Simplot

Golf & Athletic Turf Maintenance Pure Green provides expert sports turf management across Tennessee and the Southeast.

Whether your field is in dire need of professional help or you just want a more economical solution to your sports turf management needs, let us come out and provide a free assessment to get you ready for the season!

Our Turf Management services include:

• • • • •

Spraying Aerification Top-Dressing Consulting Slit Drainage

615-988-6777 • www.puregreenllc.com

Charter #4788

Get ahead of the game in the cold months with FieldSaver® Winter Turf Blankets/Growth Covers.

Custom sizes available.

We are the manufacturer!

Standard sizes ship fast, from Philadelphia!

Actual sequence in same location November: Season ended with less than 10% of turf cover.

December: After seeding and fertilizing, active turf growth even with temperatures below freezing.

• Heavy 100% woven polypro fabric • Reinforced hems and grommets all edges • Stakes stay in place & won’t rip fabric

Stakes keep covers in place in brass grommets at 5' intervals.

For price quotes, sizes, fabric specs and samples, visit www.CoverSports.com sales@coversports.com • 800-445-6680 We make covers for all athletic surfaces: Rain Covers, Sideline Tarps, Track Protectors

19

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

• Protect turf from harsh winter conditions!

• Promote faster spring growth and green-up!

• 8 Year Limited Warranty

Spring: Covers have been removed.

(Uncovered turf still dormant)

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

Recent Event >>> Continued

express purpose of “Giving Back One Yard at a Time.” Raising Men offers practical help for the disabled, elderly and veterans in the form of lawn care. Moreover, it engages young people to participate and gives them the satisfaction of making a difference! On Wednesday, we were also pleased to welcome Dr. Jim Kerns from North Carolina State University. Dr. Kerns was sponsored by BASF, Inc. He gave a timely Review of Southern Warm Diseases. On Thursday morning the momentum continued with four breakout sessions including golf, sports turf and grounds, lawn care and sod. These sessions included a variety of top-notch speakers from universities across the Southeast.

The Deep South really started getting underway on Monday, September 30th. That day the Four Ball Championship Tournament kicked off at The Preserve and concluded at Fallen Oak on Tuesday. Congratulations to the winners of this year’s Four Ball Tournament, Brian Aaron and Simon Parkin who overpowered Rodney Guy and Tim Orton, defending champs. On Tuesday, the popular DSTE Scramble was played at The Preserve. Congratulations to Will Arnett, Eric Coomer, Zac Holloway and Seth King on their first-place victory! We want to thank The Preserve (Stephen Miles, CGCS, Jeremy Stevens) and Fallen Oak (Matt Hughes) for providing the venue for our event!

Following the Scramble everyone was invited to a “Tailgate” picnic at the Preserve which promises to become a popular tradition at the Expo. The Preserve played host and some of our sponsors put forth their best efforts and chefs with a selection of goodies. Beard and Greenville put on a barbeque. Jerry Pate Turf & Irrigation held a chili cook-off.

Simplot provided delicious jambalaya and Aqua-Aid rolled out the Brats. With delicious cake for dessert provided by Target/Residex and drinks provided by Ladd’s, there was little more to wish for except for music, which Simplot provided some great music from guitarist David Samford. The evening was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone and made even more enjoyable as Bayer provided bus service back to the Beau.

In addition to the golf tournaments, The Trap and Skeet Tournament was repeated this year at the Coastal Rifle and Pistol Club for the marksmen in our midst. We thank CortevaDow for sponsoring the event. Winner of the tournament’s skeet shoot was William Smith. Mitch O’Banion won the Trap Shoot. The overall winner was Mitchell O’Banion. Agri-AFC and PBI Gordon once again sponsored a tour of sports fields.

In a twist this year the Beauvoir property was added to the tour. Attendees lunched there and then headed to the Biloxi High School fields for a tour followed by another at Shucker’s Stadium.

The Expo wouldn’t be possible without our Trade Show, and Wednesday afternoon showed brisk traffic for exhibitors. A number of great door prizes were donated for attendees and included among them were drawings for cash. Many thanks to our donors. We hope everyone will express their thanks to our exhibitors and our sponsors at every opportunity!

Plans are already underway for the 2020 Deep South Turf Expo. It will be later in the Fall this year and hopefully the weather will cooperate in allowing our members to get away for a great education program, tradeshow and networking opportunity. Save the dates for November 3 – 5, 2020 and see you in Biloxi!

20

THANK YOU 2019 SPONSORS

INTRODUCING

Genesis

TM

Genesis Rx 5-7-5 is a comprehensive fertility and soil amendment product specifically developed for construction, renovation, aerification, sprigging, sodding, and seeding. This blend of dispersing granule (DG) components provides a single-product solution designed to save turf managers time in application and reducing fertility program complexity.

StartwithGenesis.com @AndersonsTurf

Al abam a Tu rf Ti me s >>> Winter 2020

21

Upcoming Events >>>

ROAD SHOW PRESENTATIONS January 7.................................................. MONTGOMERY January 22.............................................................LOXLEY February 5..........................................................DOTHAN February 12................................................ BIRMINGHAM February 19......................................................... AUBURN February 26...................................................HUNTSVILLE

Responsible Use of Insecticides for Common Pests in Turfgrass

Drone Technology to Improve Turfgrass Management Efficiency

By James Horton This presentation will discuss the history, types and uses of drones. Registration and pilot certification will also be covered along with the different sensors and cameras being used today. Final comments will explore how this technology could benefit the turfgrass manager.

Soil Testing for Information and Profit Dr. Beth Gertal and Dr. Audrey Gamble Why should you soil test? What can a soil test provide for you, and how can you use this information in your program?

This talk will cover the utility of soil tests, and how to get useful information from the soil test report. We’ll discuss the items a soil test might contain, and why that information may or may not be useful.

By Drs. David Held, Katelyn Kesheimer This presentation discusses the current recommendations for the common pests of turfgrass. In addition, it will highlight concerns with non-target effects and insecticide resistance management.

Control of Troublesome Weeds in Turf

By Dr. Scott McElroy and Jim Harris Investigating results from 2019 trials and research in weeds in turf.

Ride-On Applicators: A New Method of Chemical Delivery

This presentation will cover how chemicals, both wet and dry formulations have been applied in the past and how the new ride-on applicators can make a difference in your operations now and in the future. Growth in the turf business is ever changing and product solutions are designed to help turfgrass managers meet their needs. Manhour and chemical cost savings as well as proper use, transport and calibration are just some of what will be presented.

50% OFF

ANY SIZE AD IN ALABAMA TURF TIMES MAGAZINE OFFER GOOD FOR 1 ISSUE AND LIMITED TO NEW ADVERTISERS ONLY

Contact kristin@leadingedgecommunications.com or 615.790.3718 to take advantage of this offer!

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Wint er 2020

Cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts, offers or current advertising agreements. Limited to one single ad in one issue only. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. To ensure the integrity of our publications and for the benefit of our readers and advertisers, publisher reserves the right to revise, reclassify, edit or reject any Ad Material or any portion thereof at any time. Offer good through 6/30/2020.

22