CARPENTER BEES:
Uninvited Houseguests Who Do Not Take a Hint
Importance of Soil Improvement with a Changing Climate
Tifton, GA
In Drought Tolerance
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From the President
June is NC Turfgrass Council Membership Renewal Time!
The
Turfgrass Council of North Carolina provides several valuable benefits to its members. These benefits come in many forms to help support the turfgrass industry in North Carolina. This, in turn helps secure livelihoods working in the industry.
Benefits of being a member of TCNC include (and of course, are not limited to):
LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT
Membership allows TCNC to act as your voice on important issues that affect our industry and your livelihood. Issues like water allocation/use, pesticide & fertilizer use, taxation of services, H-1B Regulations, noise ordinance laws, just to name a few.
Your TCNC membership includes being a member of the North Carolina Green Industry Council (GIC). You cannot directly be a member of GIC without being a member of a recognized NC association. TCNC is a partner member of GIC. The NC Green Industry Council unites all green industry associations and constituents to:
• Represent and protect members’ legislative interests
• Promote the value of green industry products and services
• Advocate for the green industry as a leader of environmental stewardship
In fact, Bill S.3283 – Protect America's Children from Toxic Pesticides Act has just been submitted to the Senate. This is a bill that needs to be watched closely because it will affect the way we do business as it is written.
TCNC will keep our members posted on the progress of this bill.
CERTIFICATION
TCNC is the only association that facilitates the North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Profession certification (NCCTP). The NCCTP designation is the only certification program dedicated to turfgrass professionals in North Carolina.
Being an NCCTP gives you professional credibility allowing you to stand out from the crowd.
EDUCATION
TCNC provides opportunities for CEU’s throughout the year with our new Knowledge Series events. These events will cover many issues from research updates to running a successful business and managing employees in these changing times.
On February 3rd (our first Knowledge Series event in 2022) Dr. Terri Billeisen provided an excellent presentation on “Turf-Feeding Insects, the Damage They Cause and How to Manage Them”. Mike Kelsey’s presentation on “Exploring the Connection of Professionalism, Productivity, and Profitability” was postponed to March 15th due to COVID. Mike’s prerecorded presentation was a fresh reminder on the importance of core values and culture within our industry.
EVENT DISCOUNTS
Member only discounts throughout NC for educational events. One example; you can attend the very well received NC State Field Day for only $5.00.
These discounts can help quickly offset the cost of membership.
Your membership also allows TCNC to provide networking opportunities, research funding through NC Turfgrass Foundation, trade magazine, scholarship funding for qualified turfgrass students through the Eagle Foundation and discounted Workers Compensation Insurance through First Benefits.
TCNC has been here for you since 1974 and greatly appreciates your continued support.
Kevin
Herrmann
TCNC President
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
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@leadingedgecommunications.com
TCNC OFFICERS
PRESIDENT
Kevin Herrmann Fairway Green Inc. Raleigh, NC
VICE PRESIDENT
Wilson Sutton Falling Creek Golf Club Kinston, NC
PAST PRESIDENT
Gene Queen Nature's Select Winston Salem, NC
TREASURER
Jonathan Richardson, NCCTP NCCTP Chairman Green Resource Dunn, NC
DIRECTORS
Brian Beane Nature's Select Premium Turf Services Winston-Salem, NC
Greg Harris
Leap Frog Land Care, Inc. Cary, NC
Shaun Kerr Gates Four Golf and Country Club Fayetteville, NC
TCNC Deluxe Members
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.
The Budd Group
The Biltmore Company
Barefoot & Associates Inc.
Buy Sod Inc
Carolina Farm Credit Carolina Green Corp.
City of Raleigh Parks & Recreation
Country Boy
Landscaping Inc
Fairway Green
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Givens Estates
Green Resource
JRM Inc.
Keith Hills Country Club
Leap Frog Landcare, Inc.
McConnell Golf LLC
Murray's Landscape Maintenance and Horticultural Services
Nature's Select
Premium Turf Services
North Carolina A&T State University
Pennington Seed –ProTurf Division
Quality Turf
Smith Turf & Irrigation
Sod Solutions Inc.
Southern Ag
Southern Seeds Inc
Town of Cary Public Works
Town of Garner
Triangle Turf and Ornamentals
Turf Mountain
Sod Inc
Vandemark Farms LLC
Wake Forest University
Weed Man
CROP AND SOIL SCIENCES
Matt Martin Extension Associate 910.409.5899 matthew_martin@ncsu.edu
Dr. Travis Gannon Assistant Professor 919.515.2647 travis_gannon@ncsu.edu
Emily Erickson Crop Science Lecturer 919.513.2034 emily_erickson@ncsu.edu
Dr. Susana Milla-Lewis Professor & University Faculty Scholar 919.280.3443 susana_milla-lewis@ncsu.edu
Dr. Grady Miller Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5656 grady_miller@ncsu.edu
Dr. Charles Peacock Professor and Director of Crop Science 919.906.1324
charles_peacock@ncsu.edu
Dr. Rob Richardson Associate Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5653 rob_richardson@ncsu.edu
Dr. Thomas Rufty Distinguished Professor 919.515.3660 tom_rufty@ncsu.edu
Dr. Wei Shi Professor 919.513.4641 wei_shi@ncsu.edu
Dr. Fred Yelverton Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5639 fred_yelverton@ncsu.edu
ENTOMOLOGY AND PLANT PATHOLOGY
Dr. Terri Billeisen Extension Associate 919.515.7464 tlhoctor@ncsu.edu
Dr. Rick Brandenburg Extension Leader 919.515.8876 rick_brandenburg@ncsu.edu
Lee Butler NC State Turf Diagnostics Lab 919.513.3878 ebutler@ncsu.edu
Dr. James Kerns Professor and Extension Specialist 919.513.4820 jpkerns@ncsu.edu
HORTICULTURE SCIENCE
Dr. Danesha Seth Carley Director, Southern IPM Center & Associate Professor 919.513.8189 danesha_carley@ncsu.edu
www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/people/
CARPENTER BEES
Uninvited Houseguests
Who Do Not Take a Hint
By Dr. Jennifer Tsuruda, Assistant Professor, and Dr. Karen Vail, Professor, UT Entomology and Plant Pathology Department
Spring is here, and as floral resources become abundant, bees begin buzzing and developing their nests. Most people who spend time outside are familiar with large carpenter bees (Xylocopa species) – their size, loud buzzing, and hovering make them hard to miss. While the behavior and activity of these native bees can be problematic for homeowners, these bee species also provide beneficial pollinator services.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE CARPENTER BEES
Large bees, 0.75" (20 mm) or more in length
Dark/black abdomen [Photo 1]
• Carpenter bees are similar in appearance to bumble bees [Photo 2]
• The adult abdomen is less hairy than bumble bees
• Carpenter bees have a “shiny hiney”, with little to no hair [Photo 1]
Light patch on the “face” of males [Photo 3]
• Males cannot sting but can appear intimidating when hovering around people near nesting sites or females
Xylocopa virginica and Xylocopa micans both occur in Tennessee. Other species may be present in other regions
REPRODUCTIVE HABITS AND RESOURCE USE
Rather than living in colonies, like honey bees and bumble bees, female carpenter bees create nesting galleries in wood. Carpenter bee entrance holes excavated by females are very clean and circular, around ½" (12 mm) in diameter [Photo 4]. From the entrance hole, the colony-founding female will turn and chew one or more tunnels that are often 4 – 7" long, but can extend several feet after reuse and expansion over multiple years.
Carpenter bees are similar in appearance to bumble bees (Bombus sp.). This female bumble bee is also foraging on Chastetree flowers at the same time in spring (photo by
1 3 4 2
Female carpenter bees (Xylocopa sp.) excavate nesting galleries in dead wood, but also soffits, eaves, decking, gazebos, and portions of other household structures (photo by J.
An adult carpenter bee (Xylocopa sp.) visits Chastetree (Vitex sp.) flowers in spring (photo by J. Tsuruda)
Male carpenter bees (Xylocopa sp.) can be distinguished from females by the presence of a light patch on the male “face” (photo by C. D. Pless and G. Schweiger)
J. Tsuruda)
Tsuruda)
OTHER INSECTS ASSOCIATED WITH CARPENTER BEE NESTS
Although the giant resin bee (Megachile sculpturalis) cannot drill through wood like carpenter bees, this non-native, introduced bee species may occupy abandoned carpenter bee galleries or displace carpenter bees and capitalize on these pre-existing nesting sites. Female giant resin bees are similar in appearance to female and male carpenter bees – at least 0.75" (at least 20 mm) in length and dark in color, but are narrower in width [Photo 5]. Native to Asia, giant resin bees pollinate a federally threatened viny plant (Apios priceana, known as Price’s Potato-Bean) that is native to the southeastern region of the United States, as well as other flowering plants.
These complex interactions within our landscape ecosystems highlight the need for thoughtful and careful management plans for pests and beneficial organisms. We continue to search for simple and effective solutions to pest activity, but carpenter bee nesting and interactions of these species with humans and other pollinators exemplify how different circumstances may warrant different strategies. In spring, when nesting female carpenter bees are chewing into our homes, it is easy to simply classify them as pests, rather than beneficial pollinators. In reality and like many organisms, carpenter bees have both harmful and helpful behaviors. With a bit of effort, we can employ practices to limit their structural harm in ways that allow their ecosystem benefits to be appreciated. 5 6
The tiger bee fly, Xenox tigrinus, is a parasitoid of the carpenter bee and derives its name from the dark wing stripes resembling that of a tiger [Photo 6]. Tiger bee fly larvae hatch from eggs laid in the carpenter bee nest and feed on the carpenter bee larva or pupa in its cell.
A giant resin bee (Megachile sculpturalis) foraging on Vitex sp. (Chastetree) flowers (photo by Frank Vassen, CC-BY-2.0)
An adult tiger bee fly (Xenox tigrinus) can parasitize carpenter bee nests and displace Xylocopa larvae (photo by Christina Butler, CC-BY-2.0)
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAY WITH
A tunnel consists of a series of cells, each provisioned with a ball of pollen mixed with nectar, and a single egg [Photo 7]. Each cell is sectioned off with a division of chewed up wood pulp. After hatching, the larva consumes the provisions and progresses through multiple larval instars before pupating into an adult. Adults emerge in the summer and forage on floral resources before overwintering in galleries. In the spring, males typically emerge earlier than females and establish and guard territories and females.
Given the overlapping housing issues for humans and carpenter bees, many homeowners are surprised that carpenter bees can still be considered beneficial insects for their ecosystem services [Photo 8]. Native bees, including carpenter bees, pollinate approximately 15% of agricultural crops in the US. Carpenter bees are also frequent pollinators of home gardens that include tomatoes, eggplants, and other plants needing sonication for the release of pollen (buzz pollination).
General preferences for carpenter bees include unpainted, untreated, weathered wood from varieties of softwood trees, like cedar, spruce, and pine, that are easier to chew. However, lumber from less preferred hardwood species may be utilized if these are the only available resources. Carpenter bee galleries in natural wood can be found in stumps, logs, and dead branches. Structural lumber and fence posts are timber products that are frequently compromised.
CARPENTER BEE DAMAGE AND MANAGEMENT
While carpenter bees contribute valuable ecosystem services as pollinators, they also are often considered pests. Our annoyance also stems from sustained infestations, repeated fly-by’s and buzzing, and defecation streaking below nest entry holes [Photo 9]. A single year’s nest building may not result in extensive damage, but carpenter bees continue to expand upon old nests, adding additional galleries in subsequent years. In time, their activity can weaken structural timbers if not curtailed.
A gallery tunnel consists of a series of cells, each containing a single egg provisioned with a ball of pollen mixed with nectar, and sectioned off from each other with a division of chewed up wood pulp.
(photo by C. D. Pless and G. Schweiger)
Despite damage caused by nesting excavations, male and female carpenter bees also provide ecosystem services as pollinators, like this female on Passion flower (Passiflora sp.).
(photo by J. Tsuruda)
Female carpenter bees also excrete fecal waste from the entrance to their nesting holes that can result in messy and unappealing streaking and discoloration on adjacent surfaces
(photo courtesy of UT Entomology and Plant Pathology archive)
PHOTO 7:
PHOTO 8:
PHOTO 9:
Successful management often requires multiple actions, repeated treatments, and persistent efforts.
Commercial traps are available that provide easy entry holes and less obvious exits. Simple designs utilize a wooden block with an appropriatelysized entrance hole and tunnel to attract and lead the bees to a clear compartment – a destination with no exit. Bees struggle to find a way out and eventually exhaust themselves to death. Additional work is needed to determine how effective these are at eliminating female carpenter bees, which are the individuals that build nests, and whether traps measurably decrease nesting in structural wood.
Non-chemical management also can include inserting a strong but flexible wire into galleries to destroy developing bees. Once cells are damaged, the entrance hole should be plugged and sealed with plastic wood, putty, or a similar substance. If possible, paint the patched surface to further discourage re-entry. This method is more likely to be successful for nests with few and short galleries, and seasonal timing should be considered for effective implementation. Reducing or replacing exposed wood can help prevent initial probing and excavation. This pro-active approach is most practical when building new structures and refurbishing severe damage. Non-wooden materials like vinyl are unlikely to encourage nesting. Lumber from hardwood species is generally less preferred than softwoods, but nesting in hardwood can still occur if preferred wood sources or sites are unavailable.
For wooden eaves, siding, or decks with nesting issues, application of registered pesticides that are labeled for carpenter bee control is an option. Dust, spray, and foam formulations are available but insecticidal dusts can be easily blown into an entrance and further spread throughout the gallery by the bees. In addition, dusts will not be absorbed into the wood like the other formulations, and will be available to the newly emerged adult bees. Consult Extension factsheets for pesticide suggestions1 that can be used by pest management professionals
(https://tiny.utk.edu/W658) and by homeowners ( https://tiny.utk.edu/ PB1303). As with the non-chemical wire method, the entrance holes should be sealed after treatment with plastic wood, putty, or a similar substance to prevent re-colonization. However, when applying dusts, wait at least a day before plugging to allow time for the female colony-founding female to contact and distribute the dust within the tunnels.
CHALLENGES TO SUCCESSFUL CARPENTER BEE MANAGEMENT
There are no simple, one-time treatments that are likely to provide effective management of carpenter bees nesting in structures. Simply sealing nesting holes without treating or eliminating developing bees can result in those bees exiting the nest by chewing new holes, thereby creating new openings (and opportunities) in the wood. Pesticide reapplication is usually needed for long-term control. Successful carpenter bee management may take several years because their reproductive life cycle spans the calendar year.
As a caution to applicators, the insecticides that may be used for carpenter bees are not specific to just this type of bee so it is highly important to follow the label and adopt practices that prevent and reduce the likelihood of accidental pesticide exposure to non-target insects (e.g., other pollinators). A second reason for plugging and sealing nest entrance holes is to prevent entry and infestation by other pests, and also helps keep insecticides within the gallery. Without sealing, insecticides can leak into the surrounding environment, where other beneficial insects and birds may be foraging, nesting, or visiting.
Unlike large carpenter bees that nest in household structures, soffits, and moldings, small carpenter bee species in the genus Ceratina nest in pithy plant stems rather than household structures. Due to their smaller size (less than 8 mm long) and plantnesting behaviors, small carpenter bees are not considered economic pests.
More information on carpenter bee biology and management can be found in the UT Extension publication “W 876 Nature’s Right-Angle Drill: Carpenter Bees” — please scan the QR code to the right or visit: https://tiny.utk.edu/W876
1 CAUTION: Some pesticides mentioned in this publication may not be legal outside of TN. If in doubt, please consult your county Extension office or regulatory agency. Furthermore, ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS FOR THE PRODUCT YOU ARE USING.
This article was originally published in Tennessee GreenTimes, Spring 2022 and is reprinted with permission.
SHAUN KERR SPOTLIGHT ON MEMBER BOARD
What company do you work for and what is your title?
Gates Four Golf and Country Club in Fayetteville NC, Golf Course Superintendent
How many years have you been in this position? 7 years
How did you decide to pursue a career in turfgrass management?
Working on a golf course was the first real job I ever had after high school, and I enjoyed working outside and being able to see immediate results after completing tasks.
What path led you to your current position?
My first job was at The Gauntlet Golf Club in Hartwood VA, then I moved to Virginia Tech for an Associate’s degree and graduated in 2002. I did an internship at Pinehurst #8, two years at CCNC in Pinehurst as an assistant, 10 years at Legacy Golf Links in Aberdeen as assistant superintendent and then got the opportunity to be a superintendent seven years ago.
What is the best part of your job?
Being able to see customers enjoy the golf course. Also, seeing the golf course in the evening while the sun is setting.
What inspired you to become a part of TCNC?
I was a member a long time ago and decided to re-join this year to take advantage of the educational opportunities and to be able to meet new people.
Why did you decide to join the Board of Directors?
I was asked to be on the board and felt like it was time for me to start giving back to the industry.
What do you feel is the biggest challenge facing the turfgrass industry right now?
Securing labor right now is the biggest challenge. Finding people that want to work and are able to work with the pay we can offer.
Do you have a mentor in the industry? Who is it?
I have many friends that I consider mentors and I talk to on a daily basis. Adam Ancherico with Eastern Turf, Jonathan Richardson with Green Resource, my current boss Kevin Lavertu, and my last boss Mike Norton.
What do you do in your free time?
Hang out with my wife and daughter. Work on and ride motorcycles and mountain bikes.
What would your advice be for people entering the turfgrass industry now?
Don’t give up, if you want to be successful in this field there are plenty of opportunities to make decent money and grow yourself personally and professionally. Work hard, network with others, don’t be afraid to try new things or ask questions.
IMPORTANCE OF SOIL IMPROVEMENT WITH A CHANGING CLIMATE
Can Turf and Compost Enhanced Soils help to Mitigate the Effects of Climate
Change?
By Ron Alexander | R. Alexander Associates, Inc. | www.alexassoc.net | Apex, NC | Ron@alexassoc.net
climate is changing, and with it our weather patterns. This could be a particular problem for North Carolina. While the end of 2021 found many coastal counties in severe drought conditions, we also saw mud slides in the NC mountains caused by heavy and lengthy rainstorms. While some still debate the reality of climate change, others are working to adjust the way they do business to better mitigate its affects, or at least, better adapt to its affects. Even though land management practices — including landscaping and turf management — are slowly changing, they really need to do so at a much more rapid pace in order to meet the requirements of both clients and the environment (and related regulations). Improving the soil before establishing turf could be part of the solution.
In North Carolina, most of our soils are at the extreme. In the eastern part of the state, we have sandy, droughty soils that are low in organic matter, nutrients and nutrient holding capacity. These soils are prone to wind erosion. In most of the rest of the state, we have fine textured soils high in clay (and silt) content. While these soils can hold water and plant nutrients, they are also easy to compact and poor in water acceptance and percolation (which is why they are also prone to water erosion). Further, when they are dry, they can become extremely hard. Remember, most plants do not thrive in these clay soils, especially when they are compacted, as air and water movement – key to root growth – is restricted. Further, plants expel more energy to move their roots downward through a clay soil profile, as opposed to loamy or sandy soils (which contain larger pore spaces).
Both sandy and fine textured soils can be dramatically improved by amending them with stabilized organic matter, and the most economical and available form of such is commercially manufactured compost. There are various commercial-scale compost manufacturing facilities in North Carolina, operated by both private companies and public entities. Several of these compost manufacturers participate in the US Composting Council’s Seal of Testing Assurance Program (STA Program), which is the national compost testing and certification program for compost, and some are Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) Listed, which means that there are allowable for use in certified organic production. A few of the facilities manufacture products that are both STA Program certified and OMRI Listed (such as City of Raleigh (919-625-3175) and Mecklenburg County (704-621-7372)).
Applying Compost on Roadside
Compost incorporation After
HOW IT WORKS
In sandy, porous soils, compost helps to fill large (macro) pore spaces. As water infiltrates through the soil profile, it is slowed down and the compost swells, absorbing significant amounts of water. This increases the water holding capacity of the soil, allowing for more extensive turf rooting to occur, enhancing the stability of the soil surface and reducing irrigation requirements. Compost and the humic substances that it possesses also enhance the soil’s ability to hold nutrients (by increasing the cation exchange capacity). And although, intuitively, many would try to add sand to clay-based soils to improve them, smaller amounts of organic matter (especially those in a more fibrous form, like compost) can work much more economically to do so.
Remember, the goal is to improve the structure of clay soils, improving the orientation of soil particles, to create larger pore spacing for improved air and water movement. Plant roots move more easily through soils possessing larger pore spacing. Through
the addition of compost, the aggregation of smaller soil particles occurs, creating larger grouped particles. These ‘water stable’ particles can act more like sand particles in the soil, as larger pore spaces are formed around them. Note that while improved pore spacing can occur by physically placing compost particles in between clay particles, the biological activity that comes along with it stabilizes those particles into larger groups. Soil aggregation associated with microbial activity is driven by bacteria, which generate protein-based soil glues as they breakdown younger organic matter, and fungi, whose hyphae bind soil particles together, as they breakdown older organic matter. Clay soil particles tend to pack tightly together, rather than form aggregates. As an example, notice how all 7 composts (Table 1)
CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
Effect of Treatment on Soil Organic Matter Content and Water Infiltration Rate*
*PSU – July, 1994 – P.J. Landschoot, A.S. McNitt, B.F. Hoyland
READY FOR SUMMER?
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HOW IT WORKS (CONTINUED)
in research completed by Penn State University’s (PSU) Department of Agronomy illustrates that by increasing the organic matter content using compost, you can reduce the bulk density and increase the water infiltration rate of finer soils (clay-loam). These soil characteristics demonstrate improved pore spacing in the soil, while turf cover was also enhanced over the control, topsoil and peat enhanced plots. Although water holding capacity (WHC) was not monitored as part of the PSU research, other research has illustrated that when amending these denser soils with compost, WHC is also improved along with infiltration rates. It’s all about the creation of larger pore spaces. We can improve NC clay soils to better hold water, when the droughts are upon us, and accept and infiltrate water, when the storms come.
Smart and more thorough land management practices can be utilized which will not only allow us to establish and grow better turfgrass in North Carolina, in extremer conditions, but also allow soils to better function in a climate with more extreme weather events.
Turf managers and landscapers can help their clients establish and maintain higher quality turf, while better managing conditions of drought and heavy storms. The turf established on these enhanced soils should require less irrigation and fertilizer applications and should better resist erosion and nutrient migration. However, these improvements cannot be achieved with half measures. The practice of establishing turf in soil treated with some lime, fertilizer and a few bags of ‘soil amender’ (pine fines) needs to be replaced with a more comprehensive and long-term approach.
Research and field experience over the past 4–5 decades has shown that the application of 1 to 2 inches of compost, incorporated into 4 to 8 inches (20 to 30% inclusion rate) of North Carolina soil can transform the soil structure, allowing for longterm turf success. These same soils will assist the industry in growing better turf stands, which can remove more carbon-dioxide from the atmosphere.
Site managers can better preserve the organic matter in their enhanced soils by properly fertilizing and watering them, preserving a dense turf cover, and by core aerating and topdressing with compost from time to time. If the industry can move toward bringing the organic matter content of its soils to 4 or 5 %, before establishing turf (and a landscape), site management will be improved for decades to come. Let’s help the soil work for us and our clients.
•
Exogenous Amino Acids and Amino Acid-Containing Biostimulants Enhance Turfgrass Growth and Summer Stress Tolerance
By Xunzhong Zhang, Ph.D. and Mike Goatley, Ph.D.
School of Plant and Environmental Sciences – Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Roles of nitrogen and amino acids in turfgrass metabolism
Nitrogen (N) assimilation is one of the most important metabolic processes of higher plants. Nitrogen is the mineral nutrient required by grass plants in the largest amounts (3-5% dry leaf tissues). Nitrogen fertilization is one of the most important cultural practices in turfgrass management. Nitrogen nutrition is closely associated turfgrass quality, color, growth, and tolerance to abiotic stress. Nitrate (NO3-) and ammonium (NH4+) are the common forms of N available for plants. Plants require substantial metabolic energy for uptake of inorganic N from environments and assimilation into organic N. Nitrate, the most commonly available form of N for grasses, has to be reduced to nitrite (NO2-) and then ammonium which is incorporated into amino acid biosynthesis. Amino acids are not only building blocks of proteins and enzymes, but also involved in transporting of N between roots, leaves, and fruits, etc. and are precursors in the synthesis of chlorophyll and many other N-containing compounds. Amino acids also serve as the carbon and N source for the production of most ‘secondary’, or ‘natural’ products. Amino acids are also associated with antioxidant and hormone metabolism and play an important role in plant tolerance to abiotic stresses (Rai, 2002). In nitrogen metabolism, glutamate is the amino acid that receives ammonium to form glutamine. Glutamate and glutamine are considered the initial amino acid products in overall amino acid biosynthesis. Amino acids play an important role in turfgrass growth and physiological fitness. For example, glutamate is a precursor of chlorophyll and associated with photosynthesis. Glutamine level is regulated in response to photosynthetic activity. Amino acid tryptophan serves as a primary precursor of the hormone auxin (indole-3acetic acid, IAA) which is closely related to root initiation.
Beneficial effects of exogenous application of amino acid on turfgrass
The energy required during nitrate reduction and amino acid biosynthesis is provided through photosynthesis and respiration. As photosynthesis declines and carbohydrates for respiration reduces under abiotic stress, the available energy for N metabolism becomes limiting, which may lead to the reduction of formation of endogenous amino acids. Exogenously applying certain amino acids will improve N metabolism and turfgrass performance, especially under abiotic stress environments and/ or N deficiency. Exogenous amino acids can be readily absorbed and translocated by plant tissues (Joy and Antcliff, 1966; Makela et al., 1996). In a recent study with creeping bentgrass, they used both 15N-labeled and 15N, 13C double-labeled L-glutamate applied exogenously to creeping bentgrass foliage, and measured the uptake of glutamate and its integration into γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and L-proline, two amino acids with known roles in plant stress adaptation. The results demonstrate that glutamate is rapidly absorbed into creeping bentgrass foliage and that it is utilized to produce GABA and proline which are closely associated with plant tolerance to abiotic stresses. Glutamate is predominantly taken up intact (McCoy et al., 2020). Once absorbed, the exogenous amino acids have the capacity to function as compatible osmolytes, regulate ion transport, serve as signaling molecules, and modulate stomatal opening among other benefits. In addition, exogenous amino acids may improve soil microbial activity and chelate micronutrients once they entered the soil environments.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
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Boone, NC (828) 264-8843 Hendersonville, NC (828) 692-2233 Palmetto, FL (941) 722-3285
Beneficial effects of exogenous amino acid-containing biostimulants on turfgrass
Foliar application of amino acid may improve plant N metabolism and turfgrass quality. It has been documented that exogenous application of amino acids can increase endogenous amino acids in plant leaves (Carbonera et al., 1989; Vidmar et al., 2000). Zhang et al. (2013) reported that exogenously applying an amino acid-based biostimulant GreenNcrease enhanced improved turf quality and chlorophyll content when compared to ammonium sulfate. It also increased shoot density, leaf soluble protein content and antioxidant superoxide dismutase activity relative to the control and ammonium sulfate under drought stress conditions. In a study with barley, exogenous application of glutamine, glutamate, asparagine, or aspartic acid increased root concentrations of the applied amino acids and those of other amines and amides. Application of glutamine also increased nitrate concentration of plant roots (Vidmar et al., 2000). Application of tryptophan increased concentrations of the amino acids proline, lysine, histidine, alanine, and leucine in carrot cells (Carbonera et al., 1989). Zhang et al. (2018) at Virginia Tech examined effects of exogenous amino acid-containing protein hydrolysate products of Harrell’s sources on creeping bentgrass quality and stress tolerance, and applied the two products (vegetable protein hydrolysate, VProH, at 0.92 fl oz/1000 ft2 biweekly and protein hydrolysate, ProH, at 1.1 fl oz/1000 ft2 biweekly and the combination of the two products for 4 applications, and the grass was subjected to heat and drought stress conditions after initial application. The results showed that the two products, applied alone or in combination, exhibited beneficial effects on leaf color, chlorophyll content, and root growth in creeping bentgrass under heat and drought stress conditions (Fig. 1). The results of this study suggest that exogenous amino acid may improve turfgrass N metabolism and leaf chlorophyll biosynthesis. The grass with better N metabolism may have greater photosynthesis and carbohydrate production which benefits root growth and tolerance to abiotic stresses. In addition, tryptophan in the products may increase endogenous production of auxin which benefits root initiation and growth. Meretz et al. (2019) reported application of a tryptophan-containing product or tryptophan plus urea at 24.5 kg N ha−1 every two weeks may improve leaf and root auxin content, root biomass, and subsequent creeping bentgrass quality relative to applications of urea only.
FIGURE 1: The responses of leaf color (1-9 scale, 9 = dark green) (A), leaf chlorophyll content (B), and root biomass (C) of creeping bentgrass to foliar applications of amino acid-containing protein hydrolysate products (vegetable protein hydrolysate, VProH at 0.92 fl oz/1000 ft2 biweekly), protein hydrolysate (ProH, at 1.1 fl oz/1000 ft2 biweekly) and VProH plus ProH at the same rates. Leaf color and chlorophyll content were the averaged across five sampling dates during 56-day trial and root biomass was determined at the end of trial. Bars marked with same letters are not significantly different at p=0.05.
Zhang et al. (2009) showed that application of a tryptophan-dosed organic fertilizer enhanced endogenous levels of IAA and cytokinins, increased leaf antioxidant enzyme activity, and improved root growth in tall fescue under drought stress conditions. Therefore, the research has provided evidences showing exogenous amino acids can be readily absorbed and translocated by plant tissues and play an important role in improving turfgrass quality, growth, and physiological fitness, especially under abiotic stress.
REFERENCES
Carbonera, D., P. Iadarola, and R. Cella. 1989. Effects of exogenous amino acids on the intracellular content of proline and other amino acids in Daucus carota cells. Plant Cell Reports 8:422-424.
Joy, K.W., and A.J. Antcliff. 1966. Translocation of amino-acids in sugar beet. Nature 211:210–211.
Makela, P., P. Peltonen-Sainio, K. Jokinen, E. Pehu, H. Setala, R. Hinkkanen, and S. Somersalo. 1996. Uptake and translocation of foliar-applied glycinebetaine in crop plants. Plant Sci. 121:221–230.
McCoy, R.M., G.W. Meyer, D. Rhodes, G.C. Murray, T.G. Sors, and J. R. Widhalm. 2020. Exploratory study on the foliar incorporation and stability of isotopically labeled amino acids applied to turfgrass. Agronomy 10, 358 doi:10.3390/agronomy10030358.
Mertz, I., N. Christians, E. Ervin, and X. Zhang. 2017. Physiological response of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) to a tryptophan-containing organic byproduct. Intl. Turfgrass Soc. Res. J. 13:575-583.
Rai, V.K. 2002. Role of amino acids in plants responses to stresses. Biol. Plant. 45:481–487.
Vidmar. J.J., D. Zhou, M.Y. Siddiqi, J.K. Schjoerring, B. Touraine, and A.D.M. Glass. 2000. Regulation of high-affinity nitrate transporter genes and high-affinity nitrate influx by nitrogen pools in roots of barley. Plant Physiol. 123:307-318.
Zhang, X., P. Summer, and E.H. Ervin. 2013. Foliar amino acids impact on creeping bentgrass drought resistance. Intl. Turfgrass Soc. Res. J. 12:429-436.
Zhang, X., E.H. Ervin, G.K. Evanylo, and K.C. Haering. 2009. Impact of biosolids on hormone metabolism in drought-stressed tall fescue. Crop Sci. 49:1893-1901.
Your New Go-To Grass
All claims based on research results from National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) trials & Oklahoma State University. Visit our website for full reports.
See Tahoma 31 in the Transition Zone for yourself at:
Brook Hollow Golf Club, Dallas, TX (fairways, tees, roughs)
Chillicothe Country Club, Ohio (fairways)
Liberty National Golf Club, New Jersey (driving range tee)
Naval Academy Golf Club, Maryland (fairways, tees)
Congressional Country Club, Maryland (8-acre driving range)
Southern Hills Country Club, Oklahoma (collars)
Developed by the turfgrass experts at Oklahoma State University, Tahoma 31 Bermudagrass pushes the geographic boundaries of bermudagrass into the northernmost reaches of the Transition Zone. Highly cold tolerant, the name “Tahoma” comes from the Native American word that means “frozen water.”
Use Tahoma 31 to design golf courses that are beautiful, sustainable, easier to maintain and play great.
COLD
COLOR
Blue-green
QUALITY
Rated #1 for beauty and resilience. Heals fast from divots & wear.
SHADE
Got trees? Handles up to 63% shade.
CAROLINA TURF FARMS PO Box 850, Raeford, NC 28376 910-875-6141
ncsodman@carolinaturffarms.com carolinaturffarms.com
Plant Tahoma 31 further north for a strong base in the winter that fights wilt in the sumner.
A NEW AND IMPROVED
MOBILE WEED MANUAL
By J.T. Brosnan and G.K. Breeden, University of Tennessee, Dept. of Plant Sciences
BACKGROUND
The University of Tennessee (UT) launched Mobile Weed Manual in May 2013 as a new resource to aid individuals in selecting herbicides for use in both warm- and cool-season turfgrass, as well as ornamentals. This digital resource was a replacement to a historical UT Extension publication, PB 1789- Weed Control for Turf Managers in Tennessee, that was only available in county extension offices in print form.
Mobile Weed Manual was initially developed as mobilefriendly website (mobileweedmanual.com) that allowed use on any device that had access to the internet. Users could quickly filter through the entire suite of active ingredients labeled for use in turfgrass or ornamentals to find options for their unique situation. Users could simply select their turf type and/or weed species to get a list of herbicides that would be applicable to that situation. Conversely, a user could generate a list of herbicides to control a specific weed regardless of turf type or generate options
for weed control in different ornamental plantings. Regardless of the search performed, all herbicides returned would be ranked based on results of UT research trials and contain direct links to both product labels and safety data sheets (SDS). When a particular weed-herbicide combination had not been studied at UT but was labeled for the use outlined via the search, results were marked “LND – Labeled but no UT data available.”
The initial launch of the Mobile Weed Manual website was very successful. The site was updated once annually (typically in January) and drew over 234,000 visitors from 191 different countries, as well as each of the 50 United States and over 268 municipalities across Tennessee. One hurdle that limited use was that Mobile Weed Manual was not available for download as a stand-alone mobile application on smartphones and tablets. Users were forced to save the web address to the home screen of their devices for it to function similar to a mobile application. Additionally, functionality was either compromised or negated in areas with limited or no internet access.
MOBILE WEED MANUAL 2.0
In 2021, a decision was made to upgrade Mobile Weed Manual. This upgrade would have several primary objectives: Make this resource available for download as a standalone mobile application
Improve the user-interface to facilitate faster searching
Incorporate photos of both turfgrass and weeds to aid users
Improve the data framework to facilitate in-season updates.
Thanks to a collaboration with digital specialists at mesur. io, a new and improved Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 launched in June 2021. This free resource is now available as a standalone mobile application for use on Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. The historical web address, mobileweedmanual. com, was also updated and takes users to the new and improved version of this resource.
Download for Apple Devices via the App Store:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ mobile-weed-manual/id1572882654
Download for Android Devices via the Google Play Store:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/ details?id=io.mesur.manual.prd&hl=en_US&gl=US
The new and improved Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 gained popularity quickly, drawing over 1,000+ users per month after initial launch. Users have taken advantage of a new user-interface that streamlines searches, as well as incorporation of both weed and turfgrass photos to guide individuals through the search process (Figure W). Coupling turfgrass and weed identification photos with herbicide recommendations was a logical next step in the advancement of the weed ID tool that was part of a historical version of tnturfgrassweeds.org.
FIGURE W
An additional benefit of the new user-interface is that Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 can now recommend herbicide mixtures to control problematic weeds such as Poa annua (Figure X).
Additionally, the Mobile Weed Manual data frame was also updated to improve our ability to keep the resource current. Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 can now be updated multiple times during the season (rather than once annually) such that users will also have access to the most current label and efficacy information for over 114 different herbicides labeled for use in turf and ornamentals. With the ability to regularly update Mobile Weed Manual 2.0, users are encouraged to provide feedback on how to enhance the resource (Figure Y). This could include adding new weeds, new herbicides, or other functionality changes.
We encourage everyone to download Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 for the upcoming season and hope it’s a helpful tool in selecting herbicides for use in turfgrass and landscape ornamentals.
Authors would like to acknowledge Mike Prorock, Russell Hofvendahl, Chris Abernethy, and Tom Rump from mesur.io for their efforts in developing Mobile Weed Manual 2.0
Better Built. Quality Results.
The Slope-Pro® is a steep slope, rotary mower capable of 50º slopes
FIGURE X
FIGURE Y
Become a NC Certified Turfgrass Professional!
Fast Facts about the NCCTP The
North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Professional (NCCTP) program is a comprehensive program developed to enhance the technical competency of turfgrass professionals, while elevating their professional image, that of your business and of the turfgrass management industry. Administered by the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina, the NCCTP designation confirms your expertise in turfgrass management to prospective customers and your peers.
Reasons to Begin Earning Your NCCTP Designation Today
The NCCTP program increases and enhances your turfgrass industry knowledge, career, and business development through a course of study of in-depth coverage of the science of turfgrass management.
The NCCTP designation offers immediate confidence and credibility of turfgrass management practices to customers and prospective employers.
Promote and market yourself as a North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Professional.
• Use the NCCTP logo on your business materials.
• Use NCCTP pins, uniform patches, and vehicle decals.
• Your TCNC Member Directory listing is distinguished with the NCCTP logo.
We Are Partnered With The NC State Turfgrass Professional Short Course
The NC State Turfgrass Professional Short Course, a comprehensive turfgrass education program, is offered at select NC State Extension offices and at NC State University. This Short Course offers a full curriculum of the science of turfgrass management as well as Continuing Education Credits for NCDACS Pesticide and NCLCLB Landscape Contractors’ license holders, and it will help you prepare for the NCCTP exam.
This Short Course is recommended but not required to take the NCCTP exam.
Enrollment Requirements:
Hold a current TCNC membership. If not currently a member, go to www.ncturfgrass.org and click ‘JOIN NOW’ to join online or download an application.
Have a minimum of one full year of work experience in the turfgrass industry.
Agree to the Certified Turfgrass Professional Code of Ethics as detailed on the application form.
Submit:
• A current and valid NC Pesticide Applicators license
• A completed NCCTP application (current TCNC members may apply online).
• NCCTP Program Application: $150
• Self-Study Materials: $50
• Exam Fee: $50
Curriculum and Exam:
Curriculum covers nine core areas: Turfgrass Characteristics; Establishing Turfgrass; Soils & Nutrient Management; Cultural Practices; Pests & Integrated Pest Management; Pesticides & Plant Growth Regulators; Landscape Safety & Pesticide Use; Calculations & Calibration; Turfgrass Business & Economics.
Candidates have six months from the date of their enrollment acceptance to complete the NCCTP exam. Candidates have six hours to complete the exam and must score 80% or more on each section to receive the NCCTP designation.
Exams can be taken at the TCNC office in Raleigh during normal business hours, or arrangements can be made at your local NC State Extension location.
Exams will not be graded if any application information is missing or if TCNC membership status cannot be confirmed. Please allow two to three weeks for exam grading and reports.
Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive communication with their results and either next step options or their graduation packet.
Maintenance Requirements:
Maintain a current TCNC membership as a means of demonstrating ongoing support for the industry. Submit an annual $50 renewal fee, which supports the NCCTP program and related promotional activities. Designation year is the same as the TCNC membership year, from July 1st to June 30th.
Hold a current NC Pesticide Applicator’s License. Subscribe to, actively support and uphold the TCNC Certification Code of Ethics.
The NC Certified Turfgrass Professional designation (NCCTP), the NCCTP logo and related programs materials are the trademarked property of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina and cannot be used without TCNC’s written permission.
For additional information, contact TCNC at (919) 459-2070.
NCCTP Certification Program ENROLLMENT APPLICATION
Name Phone Address City State Zip
TCNC Membership #*
Pesticide Applicator License #
QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS
Please read the items below and check each one that is true for you.
MEMBERSHIP: I am now, or I am applying here to be, a member in good standing of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina.
PESTICIDE LICENSE: I hold a current North Carolina Pesticide Ground Applicator License with subclass L, turf, and ornamental (or equivalent from another state).
EXPERIENCE: I have completed a minimum of one full year of turfgrass industry professional work experience.
EXAM: Upon acceptance into the program, I plan to complete my study and take the required exam within six months.
DUTY: I have initialed the following page of this application to show that I strongly support and willingly subscribe to the Certified Turfgrass Professional Code of Ethics, and I pledge to uphold the credibility and integrity of the program.
CONTINUING EDUCATION: I agree to successfully complete additional future curriculum materials or sections that may be required as a result of new technology or regulation.
Company Title
Supervisor Supervisor’s Phone
Supervisor’s E-Mail
Company’s Address
City State Zip
Work Experience
Describe your turfgrass industry professional work experience; one full year is required to apply.
NCCTP Application Fee: $150, Study Materials: $50, Exam Fee: $50, TCNC Dues (call for amount, based on date)
Check Number__________________ (payable to TCNC)
TOTAL $
Credit Card: AMEX Visa MC Discover Billing Zip Code
Credit Card #
Name on Card
By signing this application, I verify that all the information is true and correct, I acknowledge and assume full responsibility for the charges on this application, and I agree to honor and abide by the terms of this non-refundable payment.
Signature Date
CERTIFIED TURFGRASS PROFESSIONAL CODE OF ETHICS
Please read and initial each section below that you support and commit to uphold.
DUTY TO THE PUBLIC
I AGREE
I AGREE
I AGREE
I AGREE
I AGREE
Printed Name Signature
Conduct service first and foremost with regards to the safety, health, and welfare of the general public. Provide service, recommendations, and information based upon honest experience, and scientifically accurate and factual knowledge.
DUTY TO THE ENVIRONMENT
Operate in such a manner to protect and preserve our environment. Use and monitor all equipment, products, and materials in a manner consistent with the label and safe for the environment.
DUTY TO THE LAWS OF OUR LAND
Abide by all laws and regulations affecting the turf industry and support the enforcement of these laws.
DUTY TO OUR FELLOW PROFESSIONALS
Refrain from the use of false, misleading, or deceptive marketing and advertising practices. Practice and insist upon sound business management practices. Maintain the highest standard of personal conduct to reflect credit and add stature to the turf industry. Recognize the importance of strong relationships within the industry. Abstain from untruthful debasement, or encroachment upon, the professional reputation or practice of another turfgrass professional.
DUTY TO THE ASSOCIATION
Participate in association activities and events to help further the profession. Abstain from any unfair exploitation of my association, industry, or profession.
By signing this Code of Ethics, I agree to follow the duties and intentions outlined above, and I commit to supporting and upholding these ethics with consistency and integrity.
Date
Please Return Entire NCCTP Application To TCNC Via: email: info@ncturfgrass.org fax: (919) 459-2075 or mail: TCNC, 110 Horizon Dr. Ste 210, Raleigh, NC 27615
Amick's Superstore 7 www.amickssuperstore.com
Buy Sod, Inc. 12 www.buysod.com
Carolina Fresh Farms ..................... 23 www.carolinafreshfarms.com
Carolina Green Corp. 14 www.cgcfields.com
Carolina Turf Farms, Inc. 27 carolinaturffarms.com
Divots, Inc. ..................................... 35 www.divotssand.com
Green Resource Back Cover www.green-resource.com
Kesmac 19 www.brouwerkesmac.com
Mid-Atlantic STIHL 9 www.stihldealers.com
Modern Turf, Inc. ........................... 14 www.modernturf.com
Morgan Sand Company 15 morgansandco.com
Progressive Turf Equipment Inc. 30 www.progressiveturfequip.com
Quality Turf, Inc. ............................ 22 www.qualityturfnc.com
Smith Turf & Irrigation 3 www.smithturf.com
Sod Solutions 29 www.sodsolutions.com
Southern Agricultural Insecticides, Inc. 25 www.southernag.com
Southern Seeds, Inc. 13 www.southernseedsinc.com
Southern Specialty Equipment 22 www.ssequip.net
STEC Equipment ............................ 17 www.stecequipment.com
Super-Sod 5 www.supersod.com
The Turf Zone 23, 31 www.theturfzone.com
The Turfgrass Group .. Inside Front Cover www.theturfgrassgroup.com
Triangle Turf and Ornamental 21 www.triangleturf.net
Turf Mountain Sod, Inc. 35 www.turfmountain.com
Vandemark Farms .......................... 21 www.vandemarkfarms.com
Jessica Lambe Quality Turf Burgaw, NC
Micah Lyons Gardens for Living Asheville, NC
William McCoy The Biltmore Company Asheville, NC
Jonathan Johnson GoGreen Solutions LLC Hampstead, NC
Scot Shutters, NCCTP #47907 Cape Fear Community College Southport, NC
