North Carolina Turfgrass - November/December 2020

November/December 2020

A Publication of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina

THE PENDING STORM

Coming to an Athletic Field Near You

X-Ray Vision: A New Approach to Studying Turfgrass Root Growth?

Plus, Member Spotlight on STMA President Jimmy Simpson

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1-888-360-1125 Cary 1900 N Carolina 55 919-836-0492

Charlotte 12600 Downs Cir 704-525-8873

Hendersonville 583 Jeffress Road 828-681-5000

Mooresville 1060 River Highway 980-444-2347

Raleigh 1225 Farmers Market Dr 919-836-0492

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14 18 table of contents November/December 2020

8 Member Spotlight

STMA President Jimmy Simpson

18 Cover Story

The Pending Storm Coming to an Athletic Field Near You

TCNC Deluxe Members Index of Advertisers

X-RAY VISION:

A New Approach to Studying Turfgrass Root Growth?

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From the President Calendar of Events

14 Feature Story

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More Features:

Find this issue, Podcasts, Events and More:

THETURFZONE.COM

www. nc turf gra s s . o rg

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NC State Turf Team Welcome, New Members

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Your Best Fall Offense For Turf Defense

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• IMPROVED DISEASE CONTROL

From the President

DOING OUR PART I

hope this letter finds everyone safe and well. Recently, I watched the news program 60 minutes about climate change. We all have heard a lot about climate change over the years, but this program gave me a deeper perspective about the urgency of the problems we are facing. Thirty years ago, NASA scientists predicted that due to the increase carbon in the atmosphere we would be experiencing many of the problems we are now seeing.

Dry conditions in the West causing wild fires, an increase in storms and hurricanes in the Southeast, and melting of the polar ice caps that will eventually case major flooding of coastal cities, are all starting to come true.

Well-maintained turfgrass does many beneficial things to help with this problem. Turfgrass helps with carbon sequestration, cools the atmosphere, and helps control sediments runoff into our lakes and streams. The question is, “Are we doing enough as an industry?”

I took a look at my own operation to see where we could help with this problem. I will be taking a closer look to make sure our inputs are just enough to produce healthy turf without excessive growth so that mowing may be reduced. Making sure equipment and trucks are well maintained so that the carbons they produce are a minimum and our routing is as tight as it can be to reduce unnecessary driving, and question if we can we use electric equipment.

As an industry we need to do all we can to be part of the solutions to make our world a better place for our children and future generations. So, let’s do our part!

Thank you for all you do, be well and safe.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marcy Cottle IMI Association Executives info@ncturfgrass.org 919.459.2070 Published by: Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, TN 37064 615.790.3718 Fax 615.794.4524 info@leadingedge communications.com

TCNC OFFICERS PRESIDENT Gene Queen Nature's Select Winston Salem, NC

VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Herrmann Fairway Green Inc. Raleigh, NC

PAST PRESIDENT Damon Dean Keith Hills Country Club Lillington, NC

TREASURER Jonathan Richardson, NCCTP NCCTP Chairman Green Resource Dunn, NC

God Bless,

Gene Queen TCNC President

DIRECTORS

TCNC Annual Meeting THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 Virtual Platform

For details, visit ncturfgrass.org

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North Carolina Turfgrass is the official publication of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina 110 Horizon Drive Suite 210 Raleigh, NC 27615 919.459.2070 Fax 919.459.2075 www.ncturfgrass.org

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Dean Baker Kinston, NC Wilson Sutton Falling Creek Golf Club Kinston, NC Andrew Wampler Southern Ag Hendersonville, NC

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A P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e T u r f g r a s s C ou n c i l of Nor t h C ar ol i n a 7

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

JIMMY SIMPSON Still in the Game

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By Jennifer Howard

“If

you’ve never killed natural grass, you’ve never tried to grow it,” said Jimmy Simpson, NC State alumnus and Facilities Coordinator with the Town of Cary, North Carolina. “I’ve killed plenty of grass. That’s how you learn – from your experiences.” Sports turf management is a growing field as municipalities expand outdoor offerings. Social distancing has pushed us outdoors to play more than ever, making public spaces in high demand. While many organized sports are modified this year, our need for green play space is more important than ever.

Jimmy Simpson oversees all of Cary’s 45 athletic fields, volleyball courts, and supporting facilities with a team of 23 full-time employees. An avid high school baseball player and fan, he saw sports turf management as a long-term connection to stay in the game he loves.

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

PHOTO 1: Town of Cary fields host athletic events at all levels of play. Photo from 2017. PHOTO 2: Simpson with other NC State Alumni John Tournour and Clark Cox [left to right].

Photo from 2010.

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MA20TURF04-12-143741-7

Member Spotlight | continued

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Building a Batting Average While at NC State, Simpson interned with the Durham Bulls alongside classmate John Tournour. “All of us wanted to make it to the ‘big league’. At the time, I thought [the Bulls] were it,” he mused.

He became the Bulls’ head groundskeeper during his junior year at NC State and served the movie-celebrated team and fans for almost three years. Around that time, USA Baseball, the governing body for all amateur baseball, started building their new National Training Center at the 221-acre Thomas Brooks Park in Cary. Simpson saw the hometown opportunity and set his career gaze there.

Simpson graduated from NC State in 2002 and joined fellow NC State alum Clark Cox in Columbia, South Carolina. The move was part of his strategy to gain experience with multi-use athletic fields and larger complexes. “That’s what’s great about the NC State family.

You can reach out to anybody at any time and they’ll help you,” Simpson said. His resume-building paid off in April of 2006 when he signed with the Town of Cary. “It worked out surprisingly well,” he said.

Turf Management is a Team Sport

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Simpson’s passion for athletic turf goes beyond the 9 to 5. He is an active member of the National Sports Turf Managers Association serving as their president for 2020. He is an ardent proponent of natural grass surfaces for player safety and long-term value. “[Natural grass] has a bad reputation of being high cost. But synthetic isn’t maintenance-free either. I do see certain applications where synthetic is a viable option. But I think natural grass can be a more cost-effective measure, particularly if managed by a professional turf manager.”

His Town of Cary team manages their athletic fields by striving to balance labor and equipment efficiencies with the changing needs of their end-user. “One of the best parts of my job is interacting with our team – working toward our goals, sharing information with collaborators, and improving our product for the end-user. This business requires you to be a well-rounded teammate.”

Most of Simpson’s team members join as an intern or entrylevel groundskeeper. Individuals can progress to an Athletic Field Maintenance Technician, Athletic Field Crew Leader, and then to a Facility Expeditor. Sustained career growth requires its own type of fertilizer. “As professionals, we have to stay current, and that’s all about continuing education. There’s new information on management methods coming out all the time. We use NC State’s Turffiles all the time for that.”

He’s not shy in seeking out resources. “One unique thing about this industry is the collaboration. I can pick up the phone and call anybody in the industry – a major league sports turf manager or golf course superintendent I’ve never met and troubleshoot with them.

We may be competitive on aesthetics, but we’re all in the game together to make sure the surfaces are safe for our athletes, no matter their age or ability.”

PHOTO 3: Wake Med Soccer Park is one of Cary’s 45 athletic fields and facilities. [File photo] PHOTO 4: Jimmy Simpson’s team manages all 45 Town of Cary fields. [File photo] PHOTO 5: NCAA College Cup preparation

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Providing a safe playing field extends beyond the surface – including fences, gates, voids in terrain, drainage, and field traction.

“There’s a misconception in this industry that we don’t want activity on the fields. ‘You don’t want us to tear up the fields,’ people say. But that’s not it at all. We want everyone to play – safely. We can grow the grass back- no problem – but not so much your ACL.” Simpson says that when fields are closed, it’s almost always for a safety concern.

Coaching For Current Students As a team leader, Simpson is responsible for hiring. “For all levels of hiring, we look for well-rounded individuals with good character.

We want people who have had a lot of different experiences they can bring and share. For me, NC State was an amazing place to be.

There is a real diversity of cultures and perspectives. It made me well-rounded because of the people I met.”

What does Simpson tell students considering turf study? “Don’t take the classroom so seriously,” he joked. “Really, the classroom is extremely important, but how you apply what you learn in the classroom is even more important.”

He encourages prospective students to get involved early. “Reach out and talk to professionals, be it an athletic director or professional grounds manager. Make those connections.”

Then, he says, get started. “Get out there and try everything! You’ve got to get outside to touch and feel the grass. Raise your hand for every volunteer experience through internships or private work. Volunteer for everything! I once offered to help in plumbing while at the Bulls. You never know what you’ll end up using someday.”

Considering Turfgrass Study?

NC State students learn the science of turfgrass both on and off the field. If you are a student interested in sports turfgrass, read our turfgrass program ebook and explore all our degree pathways. Then sign up for an undergraduate’s guided email tour of our entire Crop & Soil Sciences Department.

Ready to plan your path at NC State? Set a no-pressure time to talk with David Crouse in our Undergraduate Programs Office. Educating and supporting turfgrass managers is part of how we are growing the future.

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A P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e T u r f g r a s s C ou n c i l of Nor t h C ar ol i n a 11

TCNC Deluxe Members

Calendar of Events

Companies wishing to support TCNC with multiple members can join as Deluxe Members.

Deluxe Memberships can be purchased in one of three tiers: 1–5 employees; 6–10 employees; or 11+ employees.

If you'd like to learn more about the Deluxe Membership, please contact the TCNC office at (919) 459-2070 or info@ncturfgrass.org.

Thank You to Our DELUXE MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS

Mark your calendar and SAVE THESE DATES! NOVEMBER 2 – DECEMBER 21, 2020 Carolinas GCSA Conference Comes to You

McConnell Golf LLC

The Biltmore Company

Nature's Select Premium Turf Services

Barefoot & Associates Inc.

North Carolina A&T State University

Buy Sod Inc

Virtual Education Sessions Every day from 1:00 – 3:00 pm

JANUARY 11 – 15, 2021 Green and Growin’ Greensboro, NC

Carolina Farm Credit

Pennington Seed – ProTurf Division

Carolina Green Corp.

Quality Turf City of Raleigh Parks & Recreation

Smith Turf & Irrigation

THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 TCNC Annual Meeting Virtual Platform

Country Boy Landscaping Inc

Sod Solutions Inc.

Fairway Green

Southern Ag

Fayetteville Technical Community College

Southern Seeds Inc

TPI International Education Conference and Field Day

Town of Cary Public Works

Austin, TX

Turf Mountain Sod Inc

For event updates throughout the year stay tuned to

Givens Estates Green Resource JRM Inc.

Vandemark Farms LLC Keith Hills Country Club Wake Forest University

Leap Frog Landcare, Inc. 12 North Carolina Turf gr a ss

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November/December 2020

FEBRUARY 22 – 25, 2021

ncturfgrass.org

Index of Advertisers Beam Clay.....................................................25 www.BEAMCLAY.com • www.PARTAC.com

POWER UP YOUR SOIL.

Take your Lawns to the

Level

It’s never too early to start planning for N-Ext season.

Buy Sod, Inc........................ Inside Back Cover www.buysod.com Carolina Green Corp.....................................25 www.cgcfields.com Carolina Turf Farms, Inc...............................23 carolinaturffarms.com

Concentrate

Concentrate

Soil & Plant Formula

Concentrate

0-0-5

Pro Directions For Use

SHAKE WELL!

Divots, Inc.....................................................25 www.divotssand.com

CONTAINS NON-PLANT FOOD INGREDIENT(S): 6.0% Humic Acids (Derived from Leonardite) 3.0% Sea Kelp Extract (Derived from Ascophyllum Nodosum) (Microbe food) INACTIVE INGREDIENTS: 91.00% Water Purpose Statement: Adds humic acid to the soil.

May increase micronutrient uptake.

May increase microbe food.

Information regarding the contents and levels of metals in this product is available on the internet at http://aapfco.org/metals.html http://aapfco.o Manufactured and Guaranteed by Greene County Fertilizer Company, Inc. P.O. BOX 1346, Greensboro, GA 30642 1-855-606-3378 ▪ greenecountyfert.com SDS & Labels F2735

Greene County Fertilizer Co........................13 www.greenecountyfert.com

Fertility Forward®

1.0 gal = 8.7 lbs at 68° F

□

net volume 2.5 gal (9.5 l)

The mixed product should be agitated prior to and during application.

Do not exceed 3 ounces when daytime temps are above 85 degrees.

Tank Mixing: Apply at a minimum rate of 3 ounces per 1,000 sq. ft. and a maximum rate of 6 ounces per 1,000 sq. ft. Dilute with enough water to cover 1 acre. Do not apply with less than a 7:1 dilution with water. wate Product is safe for use on all turf types and ornamental plants.

Product is intended to be used as an additive to current fertilizer program.

The mixed product should be agitated prior to and during application.

MIXING WITH FERTILIZERS: N-Ext RGS™ can be mixed with liquid fertilizers.

Apply in this order: 1) Water, 2) N-Ext RGS™, 3) Water Soluble or Liquid Fertilizer.

Mixing with Pesticide, Herbicide or Fungicide: N-Ext RGS™ can be mixed with pesticides, herbicides and fungicides and applied. We recommend the following: Use the product within 24 hours of mixing products (especially with fungicides). Do not over-apply pesticides, ove herbicides or fungicides as they can have an adverse effect on the populations of soil organisms.

Storage: Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight. Product will store for 2 years under warehouse conditions.

Compatibility: These concentrated materials are compatible with most fertilizers and chemicals but should not be mixed directly with other chemicals. Conduct a jar test as needed to ensure compatibility before tank mixing. Mix in spray tanks with water and proper agitation. Apply in accordance with best management practices (BMP’s) established by your Cooperative Extension Service.

Observe any State or Local fertilizer application regulations.

Caution: Apply only to turf, plants, and soil. If plants are flowering, apply to base of the plant to avoid staining of blooms.This product may stain concrete, wood and other pervious and impervious surfaces.

Keep out of reach of children. If product comes in contact with skin or eyes flush with water immediately.

□

net volume 5 gal (18.9 l)

□ net volume 275 gal (1041.0 l)

CONDITIONS OF SALE Seller warrants that this product consists of the ingredients specified and is reasonably fit for the purpose stated on this label when used in accordance with directions under normal conditions of use. No one, other than the officer or Seller, is authorized to make any warranty, guarantee, or directions concerning this product. Because the time, place, rate of application and other conditions of use are beyond Seller’s control Seller’s liability from handling, storage and use of this product is limited to replacement of product or refund of purchase price. Buyer assumes all responsibility for safety and use not in accordance with label instructions.The product names are registered trademarks of Greene County Fertilizer Company, Compan Inc.

Slow Release Liquid Nitrogen plus Micronutrients

GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Total Nitrogen (N).....................26.0% 13.2% Urea Nitrogen* 6.4% Ammoniacal Nitrogen 6.4% Nitrate Nitrogen Boron (B)...................................0.02% Iron (Fe).....................................0.4%

Derived from: Urea, Ammonium Nitrate, Ferrous Sulfate *13% urea nitrogen stabilized with N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide Information regarding the contents and levels of metals in this product is available on the internet at http://aapfco.org/metals.html

GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Pro Directions For Use

SOLUBLE POTASH (K2O)..............5.0%

SHAKE WELL! The mixed product should be agitated prior to and during application.

Warm Season Turf: Apply at a rate of 16 ounces per 1,000 sq. ft.

Mix with water at a minimum 10:1 dilution. Apply directly to foliage.

Cool Season Turf: Apply at a rate of 20 ounces per 1,000 sq. ft.

Mix with water at a minimum 10:1 dilution. Apply directly to foliage.

ALSO CONTAINS NON-PLANT FOOD INGREDIENT(S): 8.0% Humic Acids (Derived from Leonardite) Purpose Statement: May increase micronutrient uptake.

Storage: Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.

Product will store for 2 years under warehouse conditions.

Information regarding the contents and levels of metals in this product is available on the internet at http://aapfco.org/metals.html

Compatibility: These concentrated materials are compatible with most fertilizers and chemicals but should not be mixed directly with other chemicals. Conduct a jar test as needed to ensure compatibility before tank mixing. Mix in spray tanks with water and proper agitation. Apply in accordance with best management practices (BMP’s) established by your Cooperative Extension Service. Observe any State or Local fertilizer application regulations.

Derived from: Potassium Hydroxide

Manufactured and Guaranteed by Greene County Fertilizer Company, Inc. P.O. BOX 1346, Greensboro, GA 30642 1-855-606-3378 ▪ greenecountyfert.com F2735 SDS & Labels

Do not apply near water, wate storm drains, or drainage ditches. Do not apply if heavy rain is expected.

Apply this product only to your lawn/garden, and sweep any product that lands on the driveway, sidewalk, or street back onto your lawn/garden.

Caution: This product contains the secondary micronutrient iron. Iron may stain concrete, wood and other pervious and impervious surfaces. Apply only to turf and soil.

Keep out of reach of children. If product comes in contact immediatel with skin or eyes flush with water immediately.

SDS & Labels: Manufactured and Guaranteed by Greene County Fertilizer Company, Inc. ▪ P.O. BOX 1346, Greensboro, GA 30642 ▪ 1-855-606-3378 ▪ GreeneCountyFert.com ▪ F2735

□ net volume 2.5 gal (9.5 l)

□

net volume 5.0 gal (18.9 l)

□ net volume 275 gal (1041.0 l)

1.0 gal = 10.7 lbs at 68° F

SHAKE WELL!

Compatibility: These concentrated materials are compatible with most fertilizers and chemicals but should not be mixed directly with other chemicals. Conduct a jar test as needed to ensure compatibility before tank mixing. Mix in spray tanks with water and proper agitation. Apply in accordance with best management practices (BMP’s) established by your Cooperative Extension Service.

Observe any State or Local fertilizer application regulations.

Do not apply near water, wate storm drains, or drainage ditches. Do not apply if heavy rain is expected.

Apply this product only to your lawn/garden, and sweep any product that lands on the driveway, sidewalk, or street back onto your lawn/garden.

Caution: Apply only to turf, plants, and soil. If plants are flowering, apply to base of the plant to avoid staining of blooms. This product may stain concrete, wood and other pervious and impervious surfaces.

Keep out of reach of children. If product comes in contact with skin or eyes immediatel flush with water immediately.

Fertility Forward®

1.0 gal = 8.1 lbs at 68° F

Fertility Forward®

Pro Directions For Use Tank Mixing: Apply at a minimum rate of 6 ounces per 1,000 sq. ft. and a maximum rate of 9 ounces per 1,000 sq. ft. Dilute with enough liquid to cover 1 acre. Do not apply with less than 7:1 dilution with water. Apply in spring or fall; however, liquid aeration can be done anytime during the growing season. Product is safe for use on all turf types and ornamental plants.

Product is intended to be used as an additive to current fertilizer program.

The mixed product should be agitated prior to and during application.

MIXING WITH FERTILIZERS: N-Ext AIR-8™ can be mixed with liquid fertilizers.

Apply in this order: 1) Water, 2) N-Ext AIR-8™, 3) Water Soluble or Liquid Fertilizer.

Mixing with Pesticide, Herbicide or Fungicide: N-Ext AIR-8™ can be mixed with pesticides, herbicides and fungicides and applied. We recommend the following: Use the product within 24 hours of mixing products (especially with fungicides). Do not over-apply pesticides, herbicides or fungicides as they can have an adverse effect e on the populations of soil organisms.

Storage: Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight. Product will store for 2 years under warehouse conditions.

□

net volume 2.5 gal (9.5 l)

□

net volume 5 gal (18.9 l)

□ net volume 275 gal (1041.0 l)

CONDITIONS OF SALE Seller warrants that this product consists of the ingredients specified and is reasonably fit for the purpose stated on this label when used in accordance with directions under normal conditions of use. No one, other than the officer or Seller, is authorized to make any warranty, guarantee, or directions concerning this product. Because the time, place, rate of application and other conditions of use are beyond Seller’s control Seller’s liability from handling, storage and use of this product is limited to replacement of product or refund of purchase price. Buyer assumes all responsibility for safety and use not in accordance with label instructions.The product names are registered trademarks of Greene County Fertilizer Company, Compan Inc.

CONDITIONS OF SALE Seller warrants that this product consists of the ingredients specified and is reasonably fit for the purpose stated on this label when used in accordance with directions under normal conditions of use. No one, other than the officer or Seller, is authorized to make any warranty, guarantee, or directions concerning this product. Because the time, place, rate of application and other conditions of use are beyond Seller’s control Seller’s liability from handling, storage and use of this product is limited to replacement of product or refund of purchase price. Buyer assumes all responsibility for safety and use not in accordance with label instructions.The product names are registered trademarks of Greene County Fertilizer Company, Compan Inc.

Green Resource............................. Back Cover www.green-resource.com HollyFrontier Speciality Products...................5 www.hollyfrontierlsp.com Kesmac............................... Inside Front Cover www.brouwerkesmac.com Leading Edge Communications....................21 www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com

Fertility Forward® MFR/HQ: Greensboro, GA Orlando, FL • Salt Lake City, UT

High Performance Plant Nutrients Fertilizers ▪ Specialty Products Soil Amendments MFR BUY/SHIP DIRECT & SAVE GreeneCountyFert.com

Distributor of Lawn and Ornamental pest control products • EOP

Mid-Atlantic STIHL..........................................9 www.stihldealers.com Modern Turf, Inc...........................................11 www.modernturf.com Morgan Sand Company................................24 morgansandco.com Progressive Turf Equipment Inc.....................7 www.progressiveturfequip.com Smith Seed Services......................................11 www.smithseed.com Southern Seeds, Inc......................................13 www.southernseedsinc.com Southern Specialty Equipment.....................11 www.ssequip.net Super-Sod........................................................3 www.supersod.com Turf Mountain Sod, Inc.................................23 www.turfmountain.com Vandemark Farms...........................................7 www.vandemarkfarms.com Virlina Turf Projects.......................................17 virlinaturf.com

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Feature Story

X-RAY VISION? A New Approach to Studying Turfgrass Root Growth

By Jim Brosnan, Ph.D. & Brandon Horvath, Ph.D., University of Tennessee Dan McDonald, Phenotype Screening Corporation

R

oot growth is of interest to many in the turfgrass industry. Golf course superintendents, sports field managers, and lawn care professionals all aim for healthy, high quality turfgrass with a robust root system and for good reason: roots not only allow turfgrasses to access moisture and nutrients from the soil, they also prevent erosion and confer surface stability. On a sports field surface stability leads to better footing for athletes and on a golf course it can lead to better traction and fewer divots. However, studying ways to improve turfgrass root growth has proven difficult.

Often root growth is studied using core samples extracted using a golf course cup cutter or similar device. Root length is commonly measured using core samples and, in some cases, showcased on social media (Figure 1). In some instances core samples are used to quantify root mass. The process of quantifying root mass involves: 1) washing the core to remove as much debris as possible; 2) drying the core and recording the weight; 3) placing the dry core in a furnace to remove all organic material; 4) weighing the resultant mineral material.

FIGURE 1: Image of a core sample shared on social media to highlight turfgrass root growth. Source: twitter.com/JasonChennault

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The difference between the initial and final weight (i.e., what was essentially burned away in the furnace) is then reported as root mass.

More in-depth experiments have washed cores free of soil, scanned clean roots into an image, and analyzed the image with different software platforms.

All of these techniques are limited by one thing—it’s difficult (if not impossible) to take enough core samples from sites to detect a meaningful difference. For example, on an area basis, one golf course cup cutter samples 0.003% of a 3,000 ft2 putting green. In order to look at only 1% of that 3,000 ft2 putting green, one would need to extract over 300 cores. This destructive nature of extracting cores from a putting green renders this process impossible in most cases.

Conclusions about root growth using an insufficient number of cores are essentially meaningless.

X-ray technology may offer a new means of studying turfgrass root growth without the need for extensive, destructive sampling.

Researchers at Phenotype Screening Corporation (Knoxville, TN; http://www.phenotypescreening.com/) have patented a method of studying root growth in a manufactured rootzone with x-ray imaging.

The process is fairly straightforward; plants are established in x-ray transparent containers packed with polystyrene beads similar in size to coarse sand (0.5–1.0 mm diameter) and supplied moisture and nutrients via fertigation. X-ray images are captured to make a clean, non-destructive, assessment of root growth. Polystyrene does not attenuate X-radiation and is therefore invisible in the image (Figure 2).

In 2020, researchers from the University of Tennessee and Phenotype Screening conducted a collaborative study to better understand the effect of a vermicompost organic liquid extract (WPT; Worm Power Turf. Aqua-Aid Solutions. Rocky Mount, NC) on annual bluegrass (Poa annua) root growth. Pre-germinated annual bluegrass seedlings were transplanted into polystyrene rootzone profiles inside a controlled environmental growth chamber configured to provide daytime and nighttime temperatures of 79–84°F and 61–72°F, respectively, under 14 hours of light. Rootzone profiles were supplied with a complete nutrient solution (i.e., Hoagland Solution) via a drip irrigation system. After acclimation to this growing environment, plants were divided into two groups such that they received nutrient solution plus WPT (8.5%) or only nutrient solution. Treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design with six replications, each containing four sub-samples. All rootzone profiles were subjected to X-ray image analysis at 66 or 88 days after treatment (DAT). All images were analyzed using ImageJ software (Rueden et al. 2017) with assessments of projected root area, total root length, and root cross-sectional area (by depth in the profile) compared using standard error of the mean. After image analysis, root tissues were dried in a forced air oven and weighed to quantify root mass. X-ray image technology revealed that WPT increased all measured root parameters compared to controls that only received nutrient solution.

FIGURE 2: X ray image of annual bluegrass (Poa annua) root growth.

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Feature Story | continued

Interestingly, WPT treatment increased root cross-sectional area throughout the top six inches of the rootzone profile (Figure 3), which is of particular interest to those managing turfgrass on putting greens.

This research is just one example of the potential for X-ray technology to aid in furthering understanding of turfgrass root growth.

Future research could be conducted to better understand root growth of other turfgrass species and cultivars in response to various crop protectants, as well as responses to various abiotic stressors (e.g., heat, drought, etc).

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CITATIONS

Rueden, C. T.; Schindelin, J. & Hiner, M. C. et al. (2017), “ImageJ2: ImageJ for the next generation of scientific image data�, BMC Bioinformatics 18:529, PMID 29187165, doi:10.1186/s12859017-1934-z

FIGURE 3: Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) root crosssectional area (mm2 ) throughout the rootzone profile 88 days after treatment with a vermicompost organic liquid extract in 2020.

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Cover Story

THE

PENDING STORM

Coming to an Athletic Field Near You

W

Mike Goatley, Jr., Ph.D., Professor and Extension Turfgrass Specialist David McCall, Ph.D., Assistant Professor and Extension Turfgrass Pathologist Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Professor and Extension Turfgrass Weed Scientist

e’re not forecasting catastrophic weather events (although given the way 2020 has gone, what might happen?) Instead, this article is intended to help you avoid disaster as it relates to the pending storm of what is about to play out on your sports fields. Sports field managers are realizing what is on the horizon regarding the demands for use of their sports fields in 2021 with many fall sports now delayed until the spring. The sports field manager will once again face the reality that every sport is the most important in that particular coach’s, player’s, or parent’s mind and the perception (hopefully not expectation) that field access is unlimited. It was fascinating watching the progression of the ‘MLS is Back’ tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex where they hosted

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51 matches on 3 fields over 35 days – and the natural grass fields performed marvelously well thanks to an excellent team of sports field managers and consultants. Most of you are facing budget and labor cuts etc. and are quite limited in physical acreage that can be utilized for a greatly expanded spring sports schedule. While there is no guarantee for success, planning and managing for the onslaught of field use in 2021 begins NOW! There are no quick and easy fixes to limitations in soil, a properly crowned field, and an effective irrigation system. So, if those limitations describe your facility, accept that you are somewhat handicapped from the start. However, there are basic cultural, chemical, and communication management concepts that you can employ to help you provide the safest, best playing surfaces under extreme traffic conditions in 2021.

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Grow as much as grass as possible until cold weather arrives.

It doesn’t matter if it’s warm-season or cool-season, now is the time to grow the thickest, densest, healthiest turfgrass possible. Many have had to reduce inputs on fields that were not in use; that was appropriate and even necessary for budgets. But given what is coming, you now need to do everything you can to optimize turf density and health prior to winter because the growth rates of both bermudagrass (4–5 months dormancy) and cool-season grasses (2–3 months of no or restricted growth potential) will decline in a few months.

– Soil pH and nutrient management: The makings of a healthy turf begin with a properly balanced soil in terms of pH and nutrients.

A soil test is the only way to really know what the soil needs and there is no cheaper piece of insurance in making informed decisions than to soil test (Figure 1). Both warm and cool-season grasses will benefit from the utilization of a soil test in late summer through midfall. There is still time to benefit from nitrogen on bermudagrass fields, but keep the nutrient management standards of up to 1 lb N/1000 sq ft per active growing month in mind, and if possible, go to a light and frequent fertility program as the days get shorter.

The strategy for a heavily trafficked sports field in the fall (that carries over to the spring) is to keep the bermudagrass actively growing as long as possible, but not extremely succulent heading into that period when frost/freeze events are expected to occur. One point of caution regarding fertilization on bermudagrass next spring in the midst of all the traffic: the tendency is to want to begin fertilizing as soon as it starts to green in an effort to get as much regrowth as possible. That’s a risky strategy that might pay dividends if Mother Nature cooperates (i.e. no more frost events), but for most locations the threat of late season frosts that can decimate all of that early season growth are enough reason to delay spring fertilization until the possibility of frost has passed (this occurred throughout the mid-Atlantic and midSouth in 2020 when March was warmer than April in many locations).

For cool-season grasses, fall is the PRIMARY time to conduct the majority of your seasonal N fertility program for improved performance now and a carry-over in growth and color response into 2021. The standard rule of “if it needs mowing, it is growing” applies to developing your fertility program, with targets of 0.75 to 1 lb soluble N/1000 sq ft per active growing month on our cool season fields.

– Mowing height: This is a double-edged sword question and answer. Mowing your fields at the lower end of a grass’ cutting height tolerance range promotes lateral growth and better density during optimal growing periods (that might be 0.75 to 1.5" for a bermudagrass field, to 1.5 to 2.5" for a cool-season field). Mow the grasses regularly, keeping the 1/3rd rule in play, but keep in mind that more biomass (to a point… we’re not talking about letting grasses get too tall for the sport) generally equates to better wear tolerance.

– Cultivation: Two thoughts come to mind here. Many have had the opportunity to manage compaction during the down time on their fields, with some afforded opportunities that they never would have had during standard use schedules. Given what is coming with the traffic, compaction relief is especially critical now if it has not been addressed, and perhaps going as far as a linear decompaction treatment or deep tine application is warranted for its long-term benefits that will extend into 2021 (Figure 2)? Then I would suggest you do that this fall if budget permits. There is still time to address compaction on both bermudagrass and cool-season fields during late

FIGURE 1: Two composite soil samples (denoted by X’s and Y’s in this image) from your rectangles and baseball fields will provide the science-based information you need to meet the lime and nutrient needs of your sports grasses.

FIGURE 2: The ‘Shockwave’ machine is one of many ways to perform what is known as ‘linear decompaction’ on an athletic field with blades cutting slits 10 or more inches deep into the profile, with minimal surface disruption.

summer through mid-fall. Then, if time and resources allow, consider how you might be able to incorporate solid tine (or other less surface disruptive tools) into the intensively trafficked areas next spring. You can’t likely do much traditional hollow-tine aeration on a dormant or slowly growing field because the turfgrass can’t recuperate quickly enough to maintain playability. As the spring progresses, you will need to schedule and implement your regular cultivation events to best address soil compaction.

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Cover Story | continued

Also, remember that your cultivation programs don’t necessarily have to be on the entire field. The sport results in obvious traffic patterns to address (perhaps one of the biggest challenges will be that due to lack of space, sporting events will be relocated to fields that were previously dedicated to one or two sports. Concentrate your cultivation programs on the trafficked areas if you have budget, equipment, or labor limitations and give them a couple of aeration events rather than poking holes in the best parts of a field that receive little traffic.

– Overseeding: Several sports field managers have indicated that while they did not overseed their bermudagrass the past few years that they thought it likely worth the investment in the seed and the management of the ryegrass in order to have an actively growing grass for all of the mid-late winter traffic. I think that has always been the best argument for overseeding bermudagrass with ryegrass – period. It remains an agronomic fact that the ryegrass is nothing more than a weed to bermudagrass, but intensive spring traffic is a very strong justification for winter overseeding. If you overseed bermudagrass, then OVERSEED your bermudagrass! At least 6–10 lbs of pure living ryegrass seed per 1000 sq ft, and I suggest you go towards the higher side rather than lower to ensure the best density.

It will require periodic fertilization, regular mowing, and will be a detriment to your bermudagrass later next spring. However, it might be the best choice for you and your situation. Keep in mind that the ultimate product you seek to provide is a safe field, and clumpy ryegrass has long been one of the biggest reasons to not overseed a

bermudagrass field (Figure 3). The debate will continue as to the pros and cons of winter overseeding with the answer to should you or shouldn’t you do it being ‘yes’.

As with fall fertilization on cool-season grasses, fall is also the preferred season to seed and/or renovate cool season turf. Kentucky bluegrass remains a staple of cool-season fields because of its rhizomatous growth habit, perennial ryegrass fits well into cool-season renovation because of how fast it germinates, and the newest generation of turf-type tall fescues continue to expand in use on coolseason turf, especially in combination with Kentucky bluegrass.

Dormant seeding of cool season grasses over worn areas will have the seed primed and ready to germinate when spring temperatures and moisture are suitable. For situations where it is critical to get seed up as soon as possible, turf blankets can be applied.

– Use covers if you have them or can afford them. Hopefully your fields will have dense grass cover because of reduced use in 2020, but reality is that a return to practices at some schools and planned fall parks and recreation use schedules, that many fields are likely going to be intensively trafficked even this fall. Turf blankets can enhance late season recovery efforts with seeded cool-season grasses, promote the establishment of overseeded bermudagrass turfs, and protect bermudagrass from damage from winter temperature extremes.

Turf blankets will also help keep traffic off of the fields. They are a significant expense, but they are pretty much the only way to stimulate off-season grass growth and development (Figure 4), and if they are properly handled and stored, they will last many years.

FIGURE 3: An improperly overseeded bermudagrass field can have very poor footing and playability for spring sports due to the clumpy nature of the ryegrass.

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FIGURE 4: A winter-applied turf blanket removed in March in Blacksburg delivers a Kentucky bluegrass surface that is 4–6 weeks ahead of development compared to uncovered grass.

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Cover Story | continued

FIGURE 5: Postemergent non-selective weed control with glyphosate on this dormant bermudagrass field provides an exceptional and safe playing surface.

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Weed control strategies If procedures for maximizing turf density discussed above are followed, weed control requirements should be less than normal. Use herbicides that have the least injury potential and only target weeds that threaten to dominate the stand or compromise player safety. Avoid using long-residual, preemergence herbicides since expected wear pressure will be “off the charts” as fall and spring games will be combined in the spring.

Cool-season. Herbicides such as mesotrione, topramezone, triclopyr, halosulfuron, 2,4-D, dicamba, MCPP, and quinclorac should be part of your arsenal. Mesotrione is great for use during seeding to suppress winter annuals without harming cool-season seedlings. It has more residual performance than topramezone in that respect. Topramezone is best for large goosegrass plants, bermudagrass suppression, and general postemergence grass control. Halosulfuron is a safe option to control sedges when new seedlings may be established and grass growth potential must be maximized in a short period of time.

Triclopyr should be avoided on turf seedlings or on Kentucky bluegrass during hot weather. On more mature stands, it controls hardto-kill broadleaf weeds, helps suppress bermudagrass when mixed with topramezone, and reduces white symptoms on weed leaves when used with mesotrione or topramezone. The other broadleaf herbicides are safe options for postemergence control of unwanted broadleaf weeds.

Quinclorac is the best product for cleaning up massive crabgrass plants late season.

It should be possible to address annual bluegrass without herbicides. Since fall play is omitted, make every effort to seed heavily and early, fertilize with nitrogen-based products while avoiding phosphorous unless a soil test demands it. Any excess phosphorous will only serve as a starter fertilizer for annual bluegrass. The nitrogen will maximize turf competition with new annual bluegrass seedlings and should reduce their invasion. The key is to get a solid stand of turf before annual bluegrass starts emerging (max. air temps consistently below 70°F) and promote maximum turf density and competitiveness.

In addition to avoiding phosphorous, reduce irrigation frequency to match turf needs. Don’t maintain wet surfaces for long periods as this will promote annual bluegrass infestation.

Next spring, only use herbicides that allow for immediate seeding of cool-season turfgrasses as repair of damaged areas will likely be required. For example, don’t delay broadleaf weed control until spring since the products don’t work well in late-winter cold and many of them carry 3–4-week reseeding restrictions. Products like quincorac, mesotrione, and topramezone would be good choices depending on the weed spectrum.

Warm season. If managing bermudagrass fields, one has a tough decision to make: Overseed or don’t overseed. Repeating what was said earlier, overseeding will arguably place you in better shape for the coming wear stress but be advised that immense effort and resources will be needed this fall to achieve and keep a high-density stand so that it will be ready come February. Be prepared to defend 2–3 mowings per week, fertility expense, fungicides, etc. during a time when no one is on the field. Overseed early and you may need to suppress bermudagrass growth with high rates of trinexapac ethyl and optimize ryegrass emergence with 1/8-inch sand topdressing. Aggressive core aeration or verticutting is not recommended as a means of reducing bermudagrass vigor as this will weaken the bermudagrass substantially for next summer. If coring is needed anyway, that need will trump

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bermudagrass injury concerns. Thus, if soils are compacted, that is sufficient reason to coincide aeration with the seeding event. In fact, dragging cores can replace the sand top dressing as a means to promote ryegrass establishment in a dense bermudagrass stand. If overseeding at higher rates, early, and a successful stand establishment is gained, weed control inputs may not be needed. If you must overseed later or annual bluegrass has already started to emerge prior to overseeding, apply foramsulfuron one week prior to seeding to kill emerged annual bluegrass.

The counter argument in favor of not overseeding best applies to fields that are entering the fall season at above-average density. In fact, any or all of the following may make nonoverseeded bermudagrass fields a prudent choice: If your bermudagrass density is high, you have limited budget, if you can reduce the number of events played on any one field, or if you expect the field to be “blown up� regardless of what you do. When not overseeding, resources may essentially be held back and used for the recovery phase rather than for producing an optimal stand of perennial ryegrass in advance of the coming spring. The downside is that your only option when playing conditions become unsafe may be to close the field. Sand top dressing and divot fill can improve field safety but is a short-term fix when turf density is lost. Weed control needs will increase on non-overseeded fields. Expect to use glyphosate or glufosinate to control winter weeds after the field enters dormancy (Figure 5). Since this often happens in February, you may be too close to the deferred season to clean up the fields. It is best to target winter broadleaf weeds with 3-way combo products the previous fall. Likewise, products like trifloxysulfuron applied in fall as bermudagrass is entering dormancy can help knock back winter weeds and allow for a glyphosate or glufosinate follow up to be more effective and aesthetically pleasing in late February.

Disease control strategies Diseases will likely impact sports fields next spring, whether managing warm-season or cool-season grasses. As previously mentioned, improving the overall density, uniformity, and vigor in the fall will pay dividends next spring when traffic is at an all-time high. Following the advice on each of the cultural practices listed above will not only improve the appearance of the field, but will also allow the plants to defend themselves against turfgrass pathogens.

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FIGURE 6: Spring dead spot must be treated with appropriate fungicides in the fall prior to fungal infection in order to control/reduce the likelihood of disease symptoms on bermudagrass sports fields the next spring.

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Spring dead spot continues to be the most prevalent disease on bermudagrass sports fields (Figure 6). If no actions are taken this fall, the only viable option will be to promote recovery in the spring through nitrogen fertilization and cultivation. The problem that we will likely run into next spring is that turfgrass managers will be attempting to do this without any breaks from foot traffic on the fields, something that will prove almost impossible.

Both fall fertilization and mowing height can impact spring dead spot the following year.

As previously mentioned, applying small amounts of nitrogen into the fall will extend the photosynthetic period of the bermudagrass, resulting in a healthier root system to fight off the spring dead spot pathogen during the winter. However, be cautious not to overapply as too much top growth late into the season can be detrimental to the root system as well.

Also pay attention to any macro- or micronutrient deficiencies that may show up during the soil test and supplement accordingly. As for mowing height, bermudagrass is less susceptible to cold injury when mowing heights are increased as the stand enters winter dormancy.

The end result of spring dead spot damage is caused by localized winterkill in patches that are weakened by the pathogen. We suggest slowly stepping up the mowing height by approximately 50% as the grass slows down.

For example, if fields are maintained at 0.75" during the active season, consider raising to somewhere between 1" and 1.25" during the last couple months of fall growth.

If spring dead spot has historically plagued a particular sports field, this may be the year to strongly consider applying a preventative fungicide. Several fungicides have proven effective. The most consistent performers in Virginia Tech research trials have been the SDHI class; such as isofetamid (Kabuto), penthiopyrad (Velista), and pydiflumetofen (Posterity). Fungicides should be applied in the fall when soil temperatures fall between 70°F and 75°F. A repeat application approximately 3–4 weeks later may prove beneficial if we experience a long, gradual decline in soil temperatures. Fungicide applications for suppressing spring dead spot should be watered in immediately to maximize their performance.

Those needing to overseed their fields this fall with a cool-season grass should be wary of seedling diseases that can quickly wipe out a stand of new grass. Particularly, be cautious of gray leaf spot and ‘damping off’ during the first couple of weeks after seeding. Gray leaf spot, in particular, has become increasingly

continued | Cover Story

problematic on both perennial ryegrass and tall fescue in late summer to early fall. Both diseases are most severe during prolonged periods of leaf wetness in conjunction with high canopy temperatures. However, consistent moisture drives each disease more than temperature. And, both diseases are also most severe when nitrogen is readily available.

Consistently wet with plenty of readily available nitrogen describes establishment to a T, as seed needs to be watered continuously for the first couple of weeks, typically in conjunction with a starter fertilizer. The potential for these diseases shouldn’t prevent fall overseeding to prepare for next spring.

Rather, extra caution should be taken to inspect the seedlings routinely to any symptoms of the diseases or, more importantly, signs of the pathogens. As with spring dead spot, this may be a year where it is worth the investment in a good fungicide to make sure overseeding establishment is a success.

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Establishing and maintaining communication is more important than ever This article likely doesn’t do as much for you as it could your supervisors, administration, players, coaches, etc., so you might accidentally leave it in a place where they might take a glance at it! Even with all of the agronomic and pest management challenges detailed, the toughest part of your battle in sports field disaster prevention is always the management of the traffic on the field. You aren’t likely to win many of these battles, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wage the battle because twoway communication is always an important part of any successful operation. Regular communication with your coaches, administration, and players regarding upcoming field use schedules begins now as you plan for what is likely to happen beginning in early 2021.

Getting buy-in from them regarding at least a basic understanding of the pending challenges is an important first step in your management program. Plainly stated, excessive traffic leads to compaction and compaction leads to the loss of grass because of a lack of oxygen and physical limitation to root penetration.

Remember that one traffic event on a saturated soil in any season can likely destroy a season’s worth of efforts in providing a safe playable field; the magnitude of the damage is much greater if a wet field is trafficked over the late fall to early winter months when there

Andy Rushing arushing@cgcfields.com Phone: (704) 634-9799 Toll Free – Office: (866) 753-1707

www.cgcfields.com

is neither time nor conditions to adequately promote recovery. Fields exist to be used, but ensure that everyone is on the same page when

it comes to understanding that field use guidelines and practices must ensure that athlete safety comes first.

A P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e T u r f g r a s s C ou n c i l of Nor t h C ar ol i n a 25

NC State Turf Team

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CROP AND SOIL SCIENCES

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Congratulations The Turfgrass Council of North Carolina (TCNC) 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, North Carolina Turfgrass, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or TCNC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this bimonthly publication. Copyright Š 2020 by the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina. North Carolina Turfgrass is published bi-monthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of TCNC. Presorted standard postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: North Carolina Turfgrass allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to TCNC. 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 insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Suite 200, Franklin, TN 37064, 615.790.3718, Fax 615.794.4524.

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