Spring 2022
TREES AND TURFS PLUS
NERTC Returns to Providence March 8 – 10 LOOKING BACK AT THE
Fall Armyworm Invasion of 2021
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CONTENTS • Spring 2022 FEATURES 80 U pcoming Events
0 NERTC Returns to Providence 0 NESTMA Member Meeting & Awards Lunch
DEPARTMENTS 140 C over Story
240 P est Update
0 Trees and Turfs
0 L ooking Back at the Fall Armyworm Invasion of 2021
COLUMNS 100 S ynthetic Turf 0 T ips for Spring Snow Removal
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT 120 P rofessional
Development
280 A ndrew Carlisle
0 M aking the Most of Team Member Check-Ins
0 D irector of Grounds Fay School, Southborough MA
The official publication of the New England Sports Turf Managers Association (NESTMA), the New England Blade is dedicated to educating, advising, and informing members of the profession and furthering the goals of the Association. The New England Blade carries news and features related to the sports turf management profession. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material and reserves the right to edit any article or advertisement submitted for publication and to refuse advertising not in keeping with the goals of the Association. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the validity of claims in connection with items appearing in the New England Blade. Mention of a commercial product does not imply endorsement by the New England Blade, NESTMA, or Leading Edge Communications, or preference over similar products not mentioned. The New England Blade is published quarterly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of NESTMA. Presorted standard postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. 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.
Find this issue, Podcasts, Events and More: TheTurfZone.com
Officers
Directors
Board of Trustees
President
Tom Barry, CSFM Greens Farms Academy Greens Farms, CT
Kim Britton Saint Anselm College Manchester, NH
Kevin Benner Pine Banks Malden, MA
John Cunniff Walpole, MA
Chris McGinty Framingham Parks Department Framingham, MA
Advancing professionalism in sports turf management and athletic field safety through education, research, and scholarships.
4 President’s Message 6 NESTMA News 30 Index of Advertisers
President Elect Brian Boesch University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI
Secretary / Treasurer
Art Goodhind Town of Natick Natick, MA
Past President Ben Polimer Town of Weston Weston, MA
Ryan Bjorn Gillette Stadium Foxboro, MA Andrew Carlisle Fay School Southborough, MA Adam Ferrucci Read Custom Soils Wareham, MA Ian Lacy Tom Irwin, Inc. Burlington, MA Ed Olsen Town of Needham Parks & Forestry Needham, MA Evan Steele Pioneer Athletics Billerica, MA
Victoria Wallace University of Connecticut Extension Storrs, CT
Management Team Virginia Wood, Executive Director Peggy Benjamin Kristen Dreyer Charissa Sharkey
NESTMA Headquarters 67 West Street Medfield, MA 02052 (508) 653-1241 NESTMA.org NESTMAinfo@gmail.com
Technical Editor Victoria Wallace University of Connecticut Extension Storrs, CT
Spring 2022 • New England BLADE • 3
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED! The following is an excerpt from remarks made by NESTMA president Chris McGinty at the association’s Annual Meeting.
What a year! Thanks to great volunteer leaders and our management team, NESTMA has adapted to change in ways we never imagined: • We held our board and committee meetings on Zoom • Continued educating our members with a series of quality webinars • Kept the association on solid financial footing • Connected everyone through monthly polls on trending topics • Held our Fall Turf Day in Needham, MA (and in-person!) • Enjoyed a great day on the links at our annual golf tournament with MALCP • Contributed generously to turfgrass research and scholarships • Maintained valuable relationships with allied organizations • Conducted an extensive membership survey • Continue as a leading chapter on the national level
And we’re just getting started! 2022 holds great promise for continued growth of our association and our industry. One of the most important tools we’ll focus on this coming year are the results of our membership survey (see page 6 — NESTMA News). Thanks to the many members who responded, the board now has important feedback that will guide us well into the future. Like you, we are optimistic about the outlook for 2022, and greatly appreciate your ongoing membership support. Looking forward to seeing you all at NERTC in March!
Chris McGinty NESTMA President
Welcome new Board Members: Kevin Banner, Pine Banks Ryan Bjorn, Gillette Stadium Andrew Carlisle, Fay School Adam Ferrucci, Read Custom Soils
T H A N K YO U C O M M E R C I A L PA R T N E R S These companies partnered with NESTMA on one or more of our educational events and advertised in The Blade in 2021. Please be sure to thank them for their support of our industry, as you do business with them throughout the year. Atlantic Golf & Turf – atlanticgolfandturf.com Brock USA – brockusa.com Corbett Incorporated – corbettirrigation.com Finch – finchinc.com Greenhaven Turf Care – greenhaventurf.com Harts Turf Pro – hartsturfpro.com Harrell’s – harrells.com Tom Irwin – tomirwin.com MTE – mte.us.com Pioneer Athletics – pioneerathletics.com ProPlay – schmitzfoam.com
Read Custom Soils – readcustomsoils.com Replay Maintenance USA – replaymaintenanceusa.com Shaw Sports Turf – shawsportsturf.com Sports Construction Estimating – sportsce.com Sports Turf Specialties – sportsturfspecialities.com Traverse Landscape Architects – traversela.com TPC – turfproductscorp.com Tuckahoe Turf – ttfarms.com Turface Athletics – turface.com TurfTank – turftank.com/us US Playground Surfacing – usplaygroundsurfacing.com
If you’re interested in learning more about NESTMA sponsorship opportunities, contact Charissa Sharkey by phone (508) 653-1241 or email NESTMAinfo@gmail.com.
4 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
NESTMA NEWS
ANNUAL MEETING A HIT! Members gathered at The German Club in Walpole, MA on December 7 for NESTMA’s Annual Meeting. President Chris McGinty brought the group up to speed on association activities, Art Goodhind gave an annual Treasurer’s report, and Tom Barry, CSFM presented a fantastic program on a recent fraise mowing project at Greens Farms Academy in Westport, CT. The meeting received very high marks, and everyone was happy to meet in-person again. Many thanks to our Annual Meeting sponsors: Harts Turf Pro, Read Custom Soils, Sports CE, and Traverse Landscape Architects.
MEMBER SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS Snapshot of respondents • Most have worked in the sports turf industry for more than 15 years • Majority have been NESTMA members for 10+ years • 59% work with five or fewer full-time crew members
Member participation is high • 98% of respondents participate in NESTMA events at least once or twice per year • 60% of respondents took advantage of NESTMA online education last year • Networking with like-minded colleagues; advancing professionally with continuing education; and access to latest trends and industry suppliers were top reasons for participation
Top takeaways • 73% of members said December – March is best time of year for industry education • “I value supporting the industry through membership” was top reason for annual renewal • Overall, 89.5% indicated they are very satisfied with their NESTMA membership Thank you to those who responded. We plan to bring the member survey back regularly to help guide the association’s planning.
DO YOUR JOB Check out this great video “Do Your Job: Patriots Field Crew” produced by Bose. It features NESTMA member Ryan Bjorn and his crew at Gillette Stadium and provides insight into what it takes to be a professional sports field manager. https://www.patriots.com/video/doyour-job-patriots-field-crew
RENEW TODAY Many thanks to those who have already renewed their NESTMA membership for 2022. Renewal is quick and easy online at NESTMA.org/Renew22. With all the opportunities and benefits in store for NESTMA members this year, you don’t want to miss a minute. 6 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
Rochester, NY
Excalibur™ Competing Surfactant Firmness (TrueFirm)
UPCOMING EVENTS
Turf Show Returns to Rhode Island The 25th annual New England Regional Turfgrass Conference (NERTC) will be back at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence, RI March 9 & 10 with special pre-conference seminars on March 8, 2022. Mike Buras, CSFM and Ben Polimer, NESTMA’s representative to the Foundation’s board of directors, report an exciting return to this live event in March!
Highlights of the sports turf professionals’ educational track: Soil & Fertility: Facts, Myths & Legends Dr. Beth Guertal, Auburn University Fraise Mowing David Lawrence, Edgbaston Priory Club Managing Turf, Staff & Coaches on Cornell’s D1 Fields Dr. Frank Rossi, Cornell University Soil Surfactants in Sports Turf Management: Where has the Innovation Gone? Dr. Stan Kostka, Penn State University From Concept to Planning to Construction to Maintenance & Beyond Ryan DeMay, Field Source Ohio Strategies for Managing High Traffic, High Profile Turf Ryan Bjorn, Gillette Stadium
Wednesday, March 8 offers two full-day seminars on Cemetery Management and Grass Tennis Court Management, as well as a series of 2- and 4-hour GCSAA seminars.
NESTMA’s Members Meeting & Awards Lunch will held during the NERTC at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 9. See page 9 for details.
To learn more and get information on how to register visit NERTF.org. Remember your NERTC participation helps fund important turfgrass research across New England.
8 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
NESTMA Members Meeting & Awards Lunch Wednesday, March 9, 2022
|
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
|
Rhode Island Convention Center
|
Providence, RI
Award Presentations | Idea Exchange Great Food | Great Company Complimentary for current NESTMA members. R E S E R VAT I O N S R E Q U I R E D. Please reserve your spot by February 25, 2022 Online: NESTMA.org | Call: (508) 653-1241 G E N E R O U S LY S U P P O RT E D BY
For New England Regional Turfgrass Conference details visit NERTF.org.
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Spring 2022 • New England BLADE • 9
COLUMN: SYNTHETIC TURF
However, if the synthetic turf facility is absolutely needed, we recommend the following:
TIPS FOR SPRING SNOW REMOVAL
•P rior to the winter season Assess current infill depths and repair damaged inlays or seams. Create a long-term plan Check/assess your equipment Understand your storage needs and requirements Clear all athletic equipment • During the winter season Check the forecast for longer term implications and plan accordingly for the removal Set realistic expectations for how long removing the snow will take and when the field will be ready for use Assess the snow. Is it heavy or light? Will sunlight allow for melting? • After the winter season Assess current infill depths and the need for any repairs. Test and report on the field to ensure it is safe and performing.
M
By Arthur Eddy, ASLA, LEED AP
anaging outdoor athletic facilities in the spring with New England weather can be tricky. One day it can snow ten inches, the next day it will rain, and the day after that it will be 11 degrees. Synthetic turf facilities create opportunities for usable space when weather conditions are variable. Due to demand, a facility may be forced to plow their field. We are often asked about plowing synthetic turf surfaces and our first instinct is to suggest avoiding it if possible.
10 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
Prior to plowing any snow, a plan should be developed that can be shared with managers, operators, and maintenance contractors. Components should include a review of the warranty requirements, pre-plow assessment protocols, process for removal and layout, and a sample assessment log for record keeping. Having this information will help to ensure that damage to the surface is limited. When plowing snow there are few things to keep in mind before the snow removal process begins. First, check to see if the right equipment is available. If snow is light and fluffy, a blower might do the trick. If there is a warm sunny day after, it might be as simple as adding infill to the surface to start the melting process. If the snow is heavy, low pressure ground equipment with a rounded edge plow works best. It is also important to remove any athletic equipment, such as goals, benches, and scoring tables, to avoid damage. If there is more than four to six inches, the snow should not be removed in one pass. A typical synthetic field is under two acres and a six-inch storm of heavy snow can produce 1,000 cubic yards +/- of snow, which can weigh about 300 tons+/-. A single pass with a six-foot plow blade from center to sideline can weigh around 10,000 pounds or the weight of an elephant. Having a layout plan and sticking to it limits the stress on inlays and seams and the potential spinning of machine wheels on the turf. Additionally, slowing down when you have to cross seams will reduce the impact on the synthetic turf. The process of removing snow is not a race and moving fast will only increase the potential risk. Also, understanding the snow storage capacity needs and any obstacles that may be damaged or hinder removal will be important to help with the layout plan. Regardless of the process, infill is going to move around the surface. It is good to keep accurate records of infill depths to create a baseline of the field and you can then assess the impact of plowing the artificial surface. The synthetic field will most likely need to be groomed and additional infill will need to be added to get back to a safe performing surface. Lastly, sticking to the plan, setting expectations, using the right equipment, and keeping accurate records will help to eliminate any potential liabilities. Removing snow from an artificial surface has a risk of damage but, when done correctly, it can provide enjoyment and extend its season. •
Arthur Eddy is CEO of RePlay Maintenance in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Connect with Art via email at aeddy@replaymaintenanceusa.com or phone (877) 641-1819. Spring 2022 • New England BLADE • 11
COLUMN: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Making the Most of Team Member Check-Ins By Neal Glatt, CSP, ASM
The
very best managers and team leaders are those who check-in with their team members on a regular basis. Yet even experienced leaders can miss opportunities for employee engagement and success without a great game plan for these conversations. Here’s how I help managers make the most of team member check-ins.
Consistent Team member check-ins are often launched with a formal announcement as a “new way of doing things” which rarely sticks long-term. For both managers and employees, this experience will feel awkward for a while. Unfortunately, many quit checkins before they become consistent. In order to have successful team member check-ins, consistency needs to happen first. By developing a habit of formally sitting down for a conversation, the clumsiness of a new conversation will give way to trust and excitement that is required for growth and improvement. Leaders starting (or restarting) check-ins should worry less about what results are we getting from this exercise and more about how often we are completing this exercise. Just like physical exercise, results come from consistent effort over sustained periods of time rather than extreme effort on occasion.
Frequent Team member check-ins also need to happen on a regular basis to help job performance. Unfortunately, 76% of employees report that their performance is formally reviewed by their manager once a year or less according to Gallup. And deep down, we all know that a one-hour conversation couldn’t possibly increase performance for an entire year. I like to have weekly check-ins with those I’m coaching. With one-hour weekly conversations, there is ample time and space to discuss all the things we need to cover (more on that in a minute) and frequent enough to responsively adjust to changes as they arise. Instead of boss reviewing last year’s performance, I’m a coach helping performance for the next play of the game.
Future-Focused Nobody is perfect. So, when we check-in with the people we lead, the goal shouldn’t be to dissect what mistakes have been made in the past because there is nothing that can be done to
12 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
solve them. In the same way, reviewing what was accomplished since the last check-in isn’t helpful either. That’s because the goal is to increase future performance. To do so requires focusing on the future rather than the past. I prefer to discuss what will be accomplished in the coming weeks, months, and years. On a weekly basis, asking about when and how work will be completed is key to realizing performance. By anticipating obstacles, team leaders can identify opportunities to provide materials, equipment, information, or support to prevent issues from occurring. And by forecasting months and years into the future, employees can feel that they’re working toward a significant goal and growing their career in a direction that will bring them fulfillment. This is where professional and personal development can be explored and encouraged.
Holistic For too long, team member check-ins have focused solely on work. Employees today want to be valued for more than just their contribution, and team leaders can build successful teams by caring for people holistically. We all know that big issues in our personal life can hinder our performance at work, so creating a place to discuss them in our check-ins is how we can help people as people. I love Gallup’s model of well-being which identifies five areas in our lives that are interconnected and inseparable: Career, Financial, Social, Community, and Physical. All five areas of well-being should be discussed with team members to ensure they can be their best selves both at work and in life. When team leaders help people find success in all five areas, they become trusted mentors who care and receive the best possible performance from their people. Starting team check-ins the right way will be difficult, timeconsuming, and awkward, but it is the only way to provide the support and encouragement that people need to be their best. If I can ever help you or your organization, please feel free to reach out. •
Neal Glatt is the Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, an online training platform for the green industry. You can learn more about him and his solutions at www.NealGlatt.com.
COVER STORY
TREES AND TURFS By Larry Tankersley, Extension Forester, University of Tennessee Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries and Tom Samples, Ph.D., Turfgrass Science and Management, University of Tennessee Department of Plant Sciences
T
rees and turfgrasses share the same basic requirements in order to live. Both capture energy from sunlight in order to produce carbon-containing substances that are used immediately to support growth, or can be stored in reserve. Photosynthesis, the combination of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water in the presence of light results in the formation of glucose and other sugars. Atmospheric carbon dioxide is also the source of carbon in amino acids, proteins, starch and cell walls. Trees and turfgrasses have vascular systems (xylem and phloem), and rely on water for oxygen and hydrogen, and to move essential nutrients absorbed from the soil to leaves, and sugars produced in the leaves to roots. Fourteen mineral nutrients are essential for their survival and reproduction. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur are classified as macronutrients due to the quantity of each that is required. Due to the very small amount (usually 100 ppm or less) of each found in plant tissue, the remaining eight essential minerals, chlorine, iron, boron, manganese, zinc, copper, molybdenum and nickel, are referred to as micronutrients.
14 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
COVER STORY • continued
Local air temperatures, annual rainfall amounts, and soil texture and fertility levels often determine if a particular species or variety of turfgrass or tree will thrive in the landscape. Although trees and turfgrasses growing in close proximity to each other must share resources (Table 1), this does not necessarily mean that they cannot co-exist. Successful management strategies assure that the fundamental requirements of both trees and turfgrasses are being met every year, even though growing conditions for each may be less than ideal.
Light Intensity, Quality and Duration. The rate at which
photosynthesis takes place within a tree or turfgrass usually increases with increasing light intensity. Light intensity is described as the amount of energy, or ‘packets’ of light referred to as photons, hitting the surface of a leaf over some time period. Light stimulates stomates to open. As a result, high light intensities are usually associated with high water transpiration rates. Only an estimated one to two percent of the solar radiation a turfgrass is receiving is absorbed and converted to chemical energy. Most of this absorbed energy is reradiated at much longer wavelengths, resulting in the release of heat. Turfgrass leaves with a horizontal orientation are more efficient absorbers of solar radiation compared to those growing more upright. The surfaces of turfgrass leaves may also reflect solar radiation. Dull and dry leaves are usually less reflective than glossy or wet leaves. Turfgrass leaves may also transmit solar radiation that may be absorbed by other leaves.
TABLE 1. Fundamental Requirements of Trees and Turfgrasses. SHARED RESOURCES: Physical space, especially below ground
Clean air, especially oxygen and carbon dioxide, free of toxins, above and below ground
Sunlight, both enough (duration and intensity) and of the appropriate wavelengths (quality)
Water, the right amount delivered on time
Seventeen essential nutrients – carbon, hydrogen and oxygen from air and water, and 14 mineral nutrients supplied by the soil
Minimum and maximum air and soil temperatures appropriate for growth and survival of both trees and turfgrasses
16 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
In his book “Turfgrass Science and Culture” published in 1973, Michigan State University researcher and author, Dr. James Beard, reported that an estimated 20 to 25% of maintained turfs were receiving some level of shade from trees, shrubs or buildings. The canopy height of bermudagrass plants growing under low light intensities (less than 70 percent full sunlight) often increases by more than 100 percent compared to that of plants receiving full sunlight. Leaf elongation is often about 35 percent higher when cool-season turfgrasses are growing on sites with limited light intensity compared to the same species in full sun.
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COVER STORY • continued
This is believed to be the result of shaded turfgrasses producing more of the plant growth hormone, gibberellic acid. The rootshoot ratio of turfgrasses tends to decrease as the level of shade increases, and less energy reaches the roots. The cuticle, the protective, waxy surface layer of a leaf, often thins as the level of shade increases. This may cause shaded turfgrasses to be more susceptible to injury from drought, freezing temperatures, diseases and insects. Since air movement among plants is often restricted, turfgrasses managed in shade often take longer to dry after rain or irrigation. In addition to the intensity of light, the overall health and performance of turfs under trees also depends on the quality of light they receive. Photosynthesis cannot occur without an appropriate amount of light of specific wavelengths. The quality of light reaching turfgrasses shaded by trees is often restricted. That is, a portion of the photosynthetically active radiation, or PAR (visible light wavelengths from 380 to 700 nanometers), has been intercepted and filtered by the tree canopy before reaching the leaves of turfgrasses. As sunlight reaches a tree’s canopy, it is 1) absorbed by the leaves and used for photosynthesis, 2) reflected back into the atmosphere or 3) transmitted to plants (turfgrass) below. Transmitted light is less intense and certain wavelengths, especially visible light important for photosynthesis, are filtered by tree leaves. When the tree canopy provides solid
shading, turfgrasses receive only indirect light, totally depleted of many of the wavelengths that result in healthy growth. Absorption, reflection and transmittance of light as it passes through a cottonwood (Populus deltoids) tree leaf are presented in Figure 1. Notice that the dotted line or light transmitted below the tree crown, is very low. An alteration of the light spectrum directly affects turfgrass growth. Silicon photovoltaic sensors are used to estimate PAR, while other sensors predict the photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) of the PAR. The PPFD is the amount of photosynthetically active photons that are hitting the leaf surface per unit area per unit time. The PPFD is reported as micromoles of photons per square meter per second. These sensors are commonly used by growers to monitor and manage supplemental lighting in greenhouse plant production systems. The intensity, photosynthetic activity and duration of light that a turf shaded by trees receives is influenced by its location in the landscape, and the size, form and species of trees. The level of shade in areas of a landscape receiving only four to six hours of direct daily sun is considered medium. Dense or ‘heavy’ shade is cast by trees with very dense canopies. Due to their ‘open’ form, pines (Pinus spp.) tend to allow more light to reach the turf surface than shade-tolerant, deciduous trees with ‘thick’ canopies, such as oaks (Quercus spp.), sycamores (Platanus spp.) and maples (Acer spp.).
FIGURE 1. Percentage of wavelength absorbed, reflected and transmitted through cottonwood leaves. (Adapted from Gates, David, “Energy exchange between organism and environment,” in Biometeorology, (1968, Oregon State University Press).
18 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
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COVER STORY • continued
The time of day that the turf receives direct sunlight also deserves consideration. The ideal time for a turfgrass to be in direct sunlight depends on the optimum temperatures for photosynthesis for the species being managed. More specifically, turf health and performance are dependent on the length of time that plants receive light within the PAR region at an air temperature at or near the optimum for photosynthesis. For example, during hot, dry periods in the summer, cool-season turfgrasses maintained with no irrigation and in areas of the landscape receiving moving shade, most often perform better when shaded in the afternoon, rather than in the morning.
The Turfgrasses. Shade tolerance varies among cool- and warm-season turfgrass species, and varieties within species. The relative shade tolerance of Chewings, strong creeping red, hard and sheep fescues is high. Yet, the performance of these coolseason turfgrasses in shade is limited by a general lack of heat tolerance. Perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass rank low to medium in shade tolerance while tall fescue, generally ranks medium in shade tolerance. Ranking of shade tolerance among warm-season turfgrasses is bermudagrass < centipedegrass and zoysiagrass < St. Augustinegrass. The Shaded Turfgrass Microenvironment. Shading impacts the turfgrass microenvironment in several ways.
Daily and seasonal fluctuations in the air temperature of the micro-environment are often reduced. In the top several inches of soil, trees and turfgrasses compete for water. The first plant species established is generally the most successful absorbing water from the soil since it is the first to occupy limited growing space. A large tree with a well-established root system can often absorb water much better than a recently installed sod. Likewise, established turf will compete very effectively with a recently transplanted tree for available water. Tree roots are opportunistic and spread well beyond the width of the crown, wherever conditions favor growth and adequate oxygen is present in soils (Figure 2). This is generally in the top one foot of soils. Some tree roots will penetrate the soil to greater depths, depending on the soil texture and bulk density. The majority of tree roots are located in the top few inches of soil. Many fine “absorbing” roots actually grow into mulch or thin turfs. As with turfgrasses, tree roots are often denser on the north (shaded) side of the tree where shade discourages rapid soil drying. Relative humidity and carbon dioxide levels within a shaded microenvironment are generally higher, and air flow within the turfgrass canopy is often restricted, compared to those in ‘open’ areas of the landscape. When the relative humidity remains high for extended periods of time, and air flow among plants is severely restricted, turfs are generally more susceptible to disease. Due, in part, to a lack of sugars and starches, shaded turfgrasses are often less durable, and may be very slow to recover from injury.
FIGURE 2. Tree roots spread well beyond the width of the crown. Note the common terms used when discussing tree root characteristics, and how the tree’s feeder roots comingle with those of the turfgrasses. Turf management practices and surface activities will affect the tree roots in this profile.
20 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
COVER STORY • continued Improving Turfgrass Performance in Shade. An annual review of the landscape management plan followed by adjustments in both tree and turf care can result in better turf quality.
1. Select, establish and maintain shade-tolerant turfgrasses. Use only those turfgrass species and varieties adapted to the level of shade encountered.
Managing The Trees. The quality and intensity of light
2. Cutting height. Raise the cutting height within the optimum range when mowing. For fine fescues, this height is from 2 to 2½ inches or more. The increased leaf surface will provide greater potential for light absorption by turfgrasses and increased carbohydrate production.
reaching turf below isolated trees may be improved with creative pruning (Figure 3). Generally, at least two-thirds of the tree’s total height should contain live branches. Regular pruning of the lower third, and removing drooping branches, is highly recommended to allow sunlight to the turf below. Crown thinning can also be helpful to reduce the crown density and leaf area of the tree allowing more sunlight to move further through the crown (Figure 4). Another consideration is to plant trees that “naturally” allow more sunlight to pass through. For example, research indicates that maple and black walnut restrict far more radiation than honey locust (Table 2). Trees can also be selected based on shape to reduce the number of drooping branches that intercept light at lower angles. Without maintenance, most of our common trees restrict enough sunlight to stress all but the most shade-tolerant turfgrasses. Instances where tree cover is multi-layered, as in a forest, may preclude the use of any turfgrasses.
Managing The Turfgrasses. Management considerations for turfs in shade include:
3. Soil test. Timely fertilization and liming based on soil test results will help ensure appropriate soil fertility and pH levels, without creating overly succulent leaf tissue or causing an excessive rate of growth. Nitrogen should be applied judiciously, for example, at a rate no more than two-thirds the amount used to fertilize turf in full sun. 4. Irrigation. Regular, deep watering is very important for successful tree and turfgrass management. Transpiration and evaporation from leaf surfaces of actively growing established trees and turfgrasses may reach 1½ inches or more of water a week. If irrigation is an option, shaded turfgrass should be watered infrequently and deeply (e.g. to a 6-inch soil depth). Recently transplanted trees or turfgrass will need supplemental water, at least until an adequate root system develops. For large, transplanted trees this may be necessary for several growing seasons.
TABLE 2. Radiation Transmitted By Selected Tree Species.
FIGURE 3. Pruning a tree can allow more light to reach the turf. Crown raising, as shown, is relatively easily done. It is best to start pruning early in the life of the tree, with regular removals until the tree reaches the desired height to develop on its own.
FIGURE 4. Pruning, shown here, thins excessive branching within the tree crown allowing more sun to stream through the crown to turfgrasses below.
22 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
TREE SPECIES
GENUS
TRANSMITTED RADIATIONa
Hackberry
Celtis
Low
Black walnut
Juglans
Low
London plane/ Sycamore
Platanus
Low
Yellow poplar
Liriodendron
Low
Sugar maple
Acer
Low
White oak
Quercus
Medium
Northern red oak
Quercus
Medium
Shagbark hickory
Carya
Medium
Honey locust
Gleditsia
High
a Research supported ranking (McPherson, E.G. 1984. Planting design for solar control. In McPhearson, E.D. (ed.) Energy- conserving Site Design. American Society of Landscape Architects. Washington, D.C. b Low transmitted radiation = less light intensity; Medium transmitted radiation = intermediate light intensity; High transmitted radiation = more light intensity.
continued • COVER
5. Aerification and dethatching. Coring (core aerification) to a soil depth of 1½ to 2 inches, and dethatching shaded turfgrass on an as-needed basis during the growing season usually improves the movement of air, water and nutrients into soil without severely damaging tree roots. 6. Inter-seeding. Annual inter-seeding may be necessary to maintain turfgrass stand density in shade. Remove or recycle fallen tree leaves and pine needles as soon as possible to reduce the amount of time light is excluded from turfgrasses. 7. Fungicide(s). Fungicides can be applied as preventative or curative treatments. Powdery mildew and pink snow mold are often more common in shaded turfs. 8. Plant growth regulators (PGRs). Research has shown that some turfgrass species, especially those with marginal shade tolerance, may maintain better overall quality in shade when routinely treated with PGRs. 9. Limiting traffic. Minimize foot, turf maintenance equipment and vehicle traffic to reduce turfgrass wear injury and soil compaction.
STORY
Trees and turf can be managed successfully on the same site as long as managers understand the needs of both types of plants, and their interactions when growing together. •
REFERENCES Anonymous (Fondriest Staff). 2010. What is Photosynthetically Active Radiation? Aug. 12. Environmental Monitor. Fondriest Environmental, Inc. https://www.fondriest.com/news/ photosyntheticradiation.htm Beard, J.B. Turfgrass: Science and Culture. 1973. Prentice-Hall, Inc., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632. 658 pp. ISBN 0- 13-933002- X McCarty, L.B. Golf Turf Management. 1st Ed. July 9, 2018. CRC Press. Boca Raton, FL 33487. 760 pp. ISBN-10: 1138476382. ISBN-13:978-1138476387. Turgeon, A.J. Turfgrass Species- Chapter 3 In Turfgrass Management. 5th Ed. 1998. Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458. SBN 10:0136283489. ISBN 13: 9780136283485.
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Spring 2022 • New England BLADE • 23
FEATURE
LOOKING BACK at the Fall Armyworm Invasion of 2021 By Ben McGraw, Ph.D.
Editor’s Note: Some turfgrass areas in western Connecticut and Massachusetts experienced Fall armyworm (FAW) feeding damage this fall. Given the opportunity to keep membership up-to-date with new or emerging insect pest concerns, Dr. McGraw was kind enough to allow us to update the article for our New England “eyes”.
It
would have been difficult to convince me in January 2021 that there would be a bigger insect news story than the emergence of 17-year periodical cicadas. These red-eyed menaces were the talk of the town early in summer with their near constant humming, driving those who work in landscapes to near madness over the course of several weeks. Little did we know at that time that a more insidious pest would be on the verge of invading states in the Northeast, including western Connecticut and Massachusetts, and about to cause turfgrass damage on a scale that has not been observed in many years. Here we look back at the Great Fall Armyworm (FAW)(Spodoptera frugiperda) Outbreak of 2021 to discuss what can be done in future years to prepare.
Homegrown problem: The majority of our destructive turfgrass insect pests are introduced species to North America. Invasive insects are believed to be more problematic outside of their native distribution since they are unlikely to occur along with their natural enemies, thus allowing for greater population growth. Unlike the majority of white grubs species, mole crickets, crane flies (leatherjackets), the FAW is native to the Americas. However, they are native to tropical or semi-tropical areas and incapable of persisting yearround in most areas in the United States. This means that no stage is capable of surviving in areas that experience freezing temperatures, limiting permanent populations to southern Texas and Florida. Each spring, moths in these areas deposit thousands of eggs that will hatch and become caterpillars. These voracious eating machines will feed on numerous host plants including corn, soybeans, rice, and turfgrasses (warm- and cool-season turfgrasses). The literature would suggest that most turfgrasses are susceptible, including Bermudagrass, fescues, ryes, and blues. The caterpillar develops through six to seven instars, pupates in the soil (forming a reddish brown cocoon), then emerges as a moth. Some moths will remain in the region, deposit eggs to become the 2nd generation of caterpillars. In the south, this scenario will play out continuously, making for year-round threats to turfgrass loss. However, some moths will be dispersed on the wind hundreds of miles which then become infestations in northern and western regions. The number of FAW generations a region may experience is largely dependent on the moth’s migration north. The Carolinas might have several FAW generations per year, whereas Pennsylvania and points north into New England may experience one generation per year. Surveillance of moths has shown FAW capable of being dispersed as much as 500 miles in 24 hrs! The Northeast does not typically experience FAW turfgrass damage, but rather observe boom years when southern storm activity is active in mid-summer.
24 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
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FEATURE • continued
Why were FAW so bad in 2021? I have only witnessed one such destructive outbreak this far north in my career, but it was limited to a much smaller region (western NY). It is unclear as to how FAW populations reached outbreak levels so uniformly across Pennsylvania this year. Some theories are that insecticide failures are becoming more common in the South, leading to larger populations to disperse northward. We don’t expect to see FAW each year, much less such strong insect activity late in summer. Therefore detecting these insects usually occurs when they are 3rd-4th instars and turf is beginning to turn droughty. Given that the majority of the damage we observed in Pennsylvania was in the last week of August... and applying a little back calculations on the larval development time to reach these later instars… we can assume that the moths entered the region sometime around the end of July. Years where there are large storms/hurricane activity in mid-summer would allow for ample time for the moths to arrive in the north and develop to larvae where their feeding is very apparent. It’s possible that FAW do frequently make it to Pennsylvania but arrive too late in August to develop to large larvae (i.e. cause massive turf loss) before experiencing freezing temperatures.
What should turf professionals be aware of for next year? I do not think that FAW is a pest that we can expect to be an annual issue in New England. However, with changing climates and increased and more powerful storm activity, it is possible that we could see more consistent dispersal of FAW moths into New England. At this point in time, I don’t think FAW is a pest
26 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
where preventive measures should be put in place prior to arrival. However, there are opportunities where prevention of other pests will reduce the likelihood of FAW damaging turf stands. Those managers that used chlorantraniliprole (Acelepryn) for preventive white grub control were sleeping well at night during the FAW scourge of 2021. This preventive measure continues to provide exceptional control of white grubs and caterpillars when applied in spring. I received many photos of distinct lines between Acelepryn-treated and damaged turfgrass lawns or golf course fairways in 2021. There are numerous curative control options for those that do not experience white grub issues or who have higher tolerances for insect damage in general. This approach can be effective but must combine scouting with timely interventions. Hindsight is always 20/20, so take heed from turfgrass managers that dealt with turf loss to FAW. New England turf managers should always be scouting for insect pests all season long. Therefore, be on the lookout for FAW “early arrivers” in mid to late July rather than waiting until damage occurs in late August (or even later in the fall). Caterpillar control in general is pretty simple and we live by a few tenets: 1) treat them early in their development, 2) apply contact insecticides to the foliage 3) don’t water it in or mow it off and 4) apply late in the day so the caterpillars acquire the residue while foraging. Pyrethroids are probably the most efficacious contacts available, but spinosads and indoxacarb are “softer” chemistries. Entomopathogenic nematodes are a great biological (non-toxic) option, but require some attention with storage, handling, application, and post-application care. If you have a weedy lawn like me- then doing nothing is also a viable alternative. Although FAW damage can be severe, the recovery on mature turfgrass is surprisingly good with light and frequent watering, a little fertilizer and additional seed, if needed. •
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Spring 2022 • New England BLADE • 27
NESTMA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Andrew Carlisle
Where did you go to school? What was your major? I went to the University of Rhode Island and majored in Urban Horticulture and Turfgrass Management. How did you get your start in the sports turf industry? In high school, I worked for a local landscape company on weekends and school breaks. I always had an affinity for the industry. When I realized there was a career to be had in sports turf management, I knew I wanted to be involved. In the spring of my senior year of high school, I created my own self-study project of volunteering to care for two little league fields in town. I had little knowledge of what to do, but I was so excited and hungry to learn that I was a sponge for information. That experience solidified my passion for the industry. Where did you go from there?
Director of Grounds Fay School, Southborough MA
28 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
After that experience, I started my college career with multiple internships ranging from golf courses to the Boston Red Sox. Those experiences helped me gain practical knowledge as well as
the drive for detail on which the sports turf industry prides itself. After college, I worked in sports turf construction as well as a lawn care company before joining Fay School as a groundskeeper. Eventually, I worked up the ranks to my current position. Who helped you the most when you started out in the sports turf industry? My first and probably biggest mentor has been Steve Nims. He was the Parks and Cemetery Superintendent when I completed my senior self-study. Steve allowed me the opportunity to pursue my passion. He gave me the space to try everything, while taking his time to teach me the nuances of field management and player safety. I still keep in touch with almost all my supervisors from past jobs and those relationships have continued to grow as I lean on them often for advice. What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received? There are many. However, “take the job seriously and not yourself” and, “treat people like you would like to be treated” have had the most influence on me. Another one that is a good notion to remember is this: “Grass is incredibly resilient.”
What’s your favorite thing about your current position? I love how every day is different – how typically a plan is set in place and then we will have to pivot sometimes a day after, and sometimes even an hour after to forge a new plan. It is a continuous process of having to think and re-think through scenarios and problems and I find that really enjoyable. I also love, and I think my crew would agree, watching the students walk out to their respective fields on game days and enjoying the product we are lucky to provide. What is the next “game-changer” you see on the horizon for the sports turf industry? I love the ideas being thrown around by different professionals in the industry of limiting inputs, and the tools used to do so. Fraise mowing (like what Tom Barry completed on his campus), smart irrigation controllers and advanced seed varieties. I think all of these, and more are great tools to reduce and/ or limit inputs. Is there a recent project that you have been able to complete? We have done a fair bit of clearing of wooded/brushy areas throughout campus which opened up some great viewpoints of different areas throughout campus, including the fields.
Spring 2022 • New England BLADE • 29
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT • continued What’s your favorite/most useful: Equipment? First Products Aera-vator Product? Seed! Technology? Smart/WiFi Irrigation Controllers and Water Management What advice would you give people starting out in sports turf management today? Get involved and don’t be afraid to try something new and to sometimes fail. We are all in this together and are always happy to lend knowledge, advice and even a helping hand! Any industry-related volunteer service, you’d like to share? I enjoy working to help further the future of our industry as a member of the landscape program advisory board at Keefe Tech in Framingham, MA. Can you share a bit about your family life and what you enjoy doing in your free time? I am married with two daughters (4 and 7), and they are filling up most of my free time right now. I do enjoy working on and restoring our Colonial house, and I try to fly fish between everything else!
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
What do you find most beneficial about being a NESTMA member?
Aqua Aid Solutions........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 www.aquaaid.com
Progressive Turf Equipment Inc..... 23 www.progressiveturfequip.com
Beam Clay. .................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 www.beamclay.com
Quest Products Corp... ....... Back Cover www.questproducts.us
Edge Ahead Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Read Custom Soils......................... 5 www.readcustomsoils.com
Harrell’s LLC. ......... Inside Front Cover www.harrells.com Kesmac. ...................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 www.brouwerkesmac.com Perkins Power Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 perkinspowerequipment.com PJC Organic.................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 www.pjcorganic.com Precision Laboratories, LLC.. . . . . . . . . . . 19 twilliams@precisionlab.com
30 • New England BLADE • Spring 2022
Replay Maintenance USA.............. 25 www.replaymaintenanceusa.com STEC Equipment.......................... 13 www.stecequipment.com The Charles Hart Seed Company. . ... 27 www.hartseed.com The Turf Zone............................... 9 www.theturfzone.com Turf Products Corp. . . Inside Back Cover www.turfproductscorp.com/about
Honestly, I am just beginning to reap the benefits of being a member. The relationships formed are some of the most helpful relationships you will have as a professional. Besides the general helpfulness of all the members, they are great people to be around! Is there anything else you’d like to share with your fellow NESTMA members? I am grateful for all NESTMA has provided over the years and I am excited for the future of the industry and our association! •
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