Tennessee Turfgrass - October / November 2003

Aeration & Topdressing For The 21st Century TTA 2004 Conference & Trade Show Registration Information Best Ball Mark Repair Methods

TIFSP RT

12 Reasons Why It’s the New Bermudagrass Standard For Golf Courses, Athletic Fields and Home Lawns If you’re involved with the installation or day-to-day care and maintenance of golf courses, athletic fields, home lawns or commercial properties, you’ll really appreciate how certified TifSport compares to Tifway and the other popular bermudagrass varieties in use today.

Be sure to ask for Tifsport by name. It makes a dense, luxurious dark green turf.

Closer Mowing Heights

After three-times-per-week mowings at 1/4”, research conducted in Tifton GA shows that TifSport can tolerate closer mowing heights than Tifway and Midiron. Sod density was excellent.

Superior Turf Density

TifSport has a greater density than Tifway-about a 1 point difference on a 10 point scale. And it’s about 3 points better than common bermudagrass.

Good Lateral Growth

TifSport is more aggressive than genetically pure Tifway, especially during the cool weather months.

This may account for TifSport’s rapid grow-in and repair time.

Superior Sod Strength

TifSport has superior sod strength. This translates into improved playing conditions and resistance to divot injury in football, golf and baseball.

Excellent Traffic Tolerance

TifSport’s density, sod strength and good lateral growth rate give it a high ranking for traffic tolerance. Athletic field managers and golf course superintendents are reporting outstanding re-growth from normal wear and tear.

Upright Leaf Blade Orientation

TifSport’s leaf blade orientation and stiffness is being touted by many golf course superintendents. They feel Tifsport gives a better ball lie in cut fairways and roughs.

Impressive Leaf Texture

TifSport has a similar leaf texture to Tifway, and a finer leaf texture than most other grasses used on fairways and tees. This also helps promote good footing on athletic fields.

Dark Green Color

TifSport has a dark emerald green color versus the somewhat lighter green of Tifway and Quickstand.

Drought Tough

TifSport developer Wayne Hanna has data from a 2-year study showing that TifSport has good drought tolerance. It not only stays green longer but it also recovers faster.

Cold Tolerant

TifSport has expanded the northern limits for warm season bermudagrasses, and has remained very consistent over multiple winters in Oklahoma.

Varietal Purity

In many cases common bermuda is being sold as Tifway 419, but Tifsport’s on-going purity is carefully controlled by a rigorous set of rules and guidelines.

Vigorous Root System

This inside view of a typical TifSport plug shows TifSport’s impressive root system, stolons and rhizomes.

To Order Your Certified TifSport Bermudagrass Sod or Sprigs, Contact One of These Licensed Tifsport Growers Mid Tenn Turf, Inc. •Manchester TN 800 782-4083 •Nashville TN 615 244-2333 •Murfreesboro TN 615 896-2252 Turfgrass America •Brentwood TN 615 377-9007 •Nashville TN 800 666-0943 •Taft TN 800 627-8816 Quail Valley Grasses •Little Rock AR 800 666-0007 & 501 975-6281 Super Sod •Fort Valley GA 800 535-1320 McFall Sod & Seed Co. •Columbia TN 931 381-3667 & 800 869-7659

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The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association and the Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association

TABLE OF CONTENTS OCTOBER / N O V E M B E R 2 0 0 3

FEATURED ARTICLES

8 18

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Aeration & Topdressing For the 21st Century Tennessee Turfgrass Association 38th Annual Conference & Trade Show Registration and Exhibitor Information

DEPARTMENTS From the President A Message from TVSTMA Green Lines Associate News Research Views Research Views Green Lines Turf Talk Turf Talk

A GROWING TRADITION

IN TENNESSEE'S

GREEN INDUSTRY

38th Annual Tennessee Turfgrass Association Conference and trade show

JANUARY 11–13, 2003 OPRYLAND HOTEL • NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

4

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

“They saved us a lot of erosion problems, big time.”

Cimarron Hills, a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, was completed in April 2002. Course superintendent Kris “KD” Davis then began working to revegetate native grasses on the outer corridor, while avoiding potential erosion problems along the feathered edges of the sand-capped course.

“We tried hydroseeding some areas, but it takes so long. And yes, we could have bought sod, but it’s very very expensive – and time intensive too. So we used a rotary spreader, and put the seed out in about 1/10 of the time that it would have taken us to hydroseed it. Then we covered the seed with North American Green’s DS75 erosion control blankets. They are great because once you roll them out you just put a couple of sprinklers on and then you can basically forget about them. They held water really well and helped disburse the rain. We got the grasses we wanted, and they saved us a lot of erosion problems, big time.”

Kris “KD” Davis, Cimarron Hills Course Superintendent Georgetown TX

Whether you need temporary erosion control or permanent turf reinforcement, the GreenSP® soil protection series can help you solve your toughest problems. For more information, call 1-800-772-2040.

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Distributed By: Jen-Hill Construction Materials Hendersonville - Athens - Memphis 1-800-452-4435

FROM THE PRESIDENT

DAN STUMP The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association and the Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association

Tennessee Turfgrass is the official publication of The Tennessee Turfgrass Association 400 Franklin Road Franklin, Tennessee 37069 (615) 591-8286 tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

Executive Secretary

I

t is my pleasure to introduce Jim Uden as the new executive secretary for TTA. Jim is a retired bank executive and avid golfer who lives in the Nashville area. When Jim is not playing golf at Richland Country Club of which he has been a member for 19 years, he has been working at Golf House on a part time basis. Jim comes to us with a strong financial background, which is what TTA needs during these slow economic times.

I look forward to working with Jim

the remainder of my term as president and truly believe he will be a big asset to TTA.

I also would like to thank Cindy Ray for her time and hard work she has given TTA over the past four months, covering the executive secretary’s duties. Cindy will also be helping Jim get settled in with TTA over the next month. Cindy has been a tremendous asset to TTA over the years with helping with the Conference and Show, and we look forward to her help in the future. T Dan Stump TTA President T

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

The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, or its board of directors, Tennessee Turfgrass Magazine, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or Turfgrass Association members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this quarterly publication.

Copyright ©2001 by the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. Tennessee Turfgrass is published bimonthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address notification to Tennessee Turfgrass Association, 400 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN 37069. Postage guaranteed. Third-class postage is paid at Franklin, TN. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: Tennessee Turfgrass allows reprinting of material. Permission requests should be directed to the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs. Contact the managing editor for contribution information.

Advertising: For display and classified advertising rates and insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, P.O. Box 680142, Franklin, TN 37068-0142, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524. Deadlines are the 1st of the month prior to the following month’s publication.

(Example: August 1st for the September issue.)

6

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

Published by

Leading Edge Communications, LLC

P.O. Box 680142

Franklin, Tennessee 37068-0142

(615) 790-3718

Fax (615) 794-4524

Email: info@leadingedgecommunications.com Editors

Lynn Ray Jeff Rumph Tom Samples

TTA 2002 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Dick Breedlove Mr. Roger Frazier Mr. Bob Hogan Mr. Tommy Mittlesteadt Mr. Derek Oglesby Mr. Jeff Skinner Mr. Bobby Stringer Mr. Tim Taylor Mr. Stan Thomas Mr. Tommy Warden Mr. Scott Wicker

TTA ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD

Mr. Jeff Rumph

Mr. Lynn Ray

Dr. Tom Samples

Dr. Dennis Shepard TTA OFFICERS President

Mr. Dan Stump

Chickasaw Country Club

(901) 325-8320 Vice President

Mr. Jeff Case

Quail Ridge Golf Course

(901) 388-9114 Treasurer

Mr. Phil Luckett

Brentwood Country Club

(615) 370-8054 Executive Secretary

Jim Uden

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Turfgrass for the 21st Century Excellent shade tolerance Winstead Turf Farms is now offering new Palisades™, hybrid Zoysia that solves just about all your lawn problems. Developed by Texas A & M and certified by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Palisades is tough, winter hearty, withstands low mowing and requires less water. It’s the perfect turfgrass for new lawns, athletic fields and golf courses. Call today to reserve this quality 21st Century turfgrass.

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Two old concepts are linked together to offer up-to-date recommendations.

By Pat O’Brien and Chris Hartwiger Reprinted with permission from “Green Section Record”, March-April 2003

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

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P

utting green aeration and topdressing are literally and figuratively dirty words. Golfers begrudgingly accept the fact that to protect the long-term health of the grass on a putting green, it is necessary to aerate and topdress each year. With more sophisticated products and techniques, gone are the days when putting greens were aerated in the spring and fall and buried in a blanket of sand. But lost in the changes to these programs may be an incomplete understanding of how much aeration and topdressing are needed to protect the long-term health of the greens.

The longterm health of putting greens depends on maintaining sand as the primary medium.

If organic matter accumulates beyond a reasonable degree, the physical benefits of sand are diminished and putting green physical properties decline along TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

9

with the health of the turf. For too long golf courses have been making changes in their aeration and topdressing programs without comparing these changes to a standard or target level. A previous Green Section Record article titled “Core Aeration by the Numbers” detailed how tine size and spacing affects the amount of surface area impacted by an aeration treatment and made a recommendation to impact 15-20% of the surface each year (O’Brien and Hartwiger, 2001). This recommendation did not go far enough because it did not include surface topdressing applications, which go hand in hand with core aeration in diluting organic matter accumulation. This article expands upon these concepts and links core aeration and sand topdressing.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CORE AERATION AND SAND TOPDRESSING According to University of Georgia turfgrass researcher Dr. Bob Carrow, the number-one problem experienced on sandbased putting greens is the excessive accumulation of organic matter in the upper portion of the soil profile (Carrow et al., 2002). Core aeration and sand topdressing are the two most effective means to control the content and distribution of organic matter in this zone. The scientific literature is full of references to the benefits of core aeration and sand topdressing. Unfortunately, details on how much aeration and topdressing are needed are lacking.

Table 1 Conversion rates for sand topdressing 3 Ft. of Sand Lbs. per 1,000 ft.2 .50 1.00 2.00 4.00 50.00

Lbs. per 1,000 ft.2 Dry Sand 50 100 200 400 5000

Depth of Application in Inches 0.006 0.012 0.024 0.048 0.600

The moment any type of grass is planted on a putting green rootzone mix, the soil physical properties in the upper few inches of the rootzone begin to change (Habeck and Christians, 2000; Curtis, 2001). In a new putting green the cycle of root growth, decline, and new growth is repeated year after year.

Roots grow down through the soil in the large soil pores (macropores) and provide the plant with needed water, oxygen, and nutrients. When a root is no longer viable, it begins to plug up soil macropores and can hinder the ability of living plants to function.

Dr. Carrow conducted extensive research (Carrow, 1998) in the mid-1990s on the organic matter dynamics in the rootzone of sand-based putting greens. He concluded as organic matter in a sand-based putting green reaches 3-4% by 10

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

weight, the percentage of soil macropores begins to decrease.

The reduction of pore space has three distinct implications, and a host of primary problems can be expected: 1) The diffusion of oxygen into the rootzone begins to decline. Oxygen is vital for plant growth as well as soil microorganism balance and function. 2) Water infiltration decreases, which can result in puddling and saturation of the surface. 3) Moisture content in the upper rootzone increases, which can make the surface less firm. The decrease in macropores (aeration pores) is accompanied by an increase in capillary or water-holding pores.

If organic matter accumulation begins to exceed 3-4% by weight, putting greens become vulnerable to a host of secondary problems such as disease, wet wilt, soft surfaces, poor root growth, black layer, and more frequent high-temperature injury. These secondary problems are often called summer bentgrass decline (Carrow et al., 2002), and trying to treat them curatively can be expensive. They occur often at courses that have not adequately aerated and topdressed the greens.

Many of these courses are doomed to many years of frustration because they are not willing to make the effort to do the additional aeration and topdressing needed to prevent the situation.

Dr. Carrow’s research shows that core aeration and applying sand can help dilute organic accumulation and create new macropores. The remainder of this article will be devoted to developing an aeration and topdressing program that keeps organic matter levels below 3-4% by weight. This proactive approach ultimately will cause less disruption and be less expensive than trying to alleviate primary and secondary problems through a curative approach.

The organic matter dilution program is a catch-all term that includes core aeration accompanied by sand topdressing to fill the holes and sand topdressing applied directly to the surface. References to core aeration refer only to hollow-tine aeration at a standard depth of 3 inches. Aeration depth can vary significantly based upon machine and type of tine used. Deep-tine aeration or similar practices designed to correct deep rootzone issues are not considered. Surface topdressing refers to sand applied directly to the turfgrass canopy.

Light, medium, and heavy topdressing applications are approximately 0.50 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2, 2.0 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2, and 4.0 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2, respectively.

AERATION AND TOPDRESSING RECOMMENDATIONS The case has been made for the importance of using core aeration and sand topdressing to dilute the accumulation of organic matter. The question is, How much of each needs to be done?

We propose answering this question in a slightly different way.

The answer requires linking the topics of aeration and topdressing together. We link the two together because they are the key elements in an organic matter dilution program. Core aeration removes organic matter. Filling the holes with sand makes sure those columns stay open. Dustings of sand applied directly to

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the surface also help manage organic matter accumulation.

Applying at least 40-50 ft.3 of sand per 1,000 ft.2 per year is recommended to keep organic matter content below 3-4% by weight in the upper portion of the rootzone. Although this recommendation is brief, understanding all its ramifications is more complex, and it should stimulate many questions that will be addressed in the following sections.

UNDERSTANDING SAND VOLUMES Rates of sand topdressing can be difficult to conceptualize.

Table 1 shows quantities of sand expressed in different units and yields some interesting comparisons. Conveniently, it turns out that 100 pounds of dry sand is equivalent to 1.0 ft.3 of sand.

Wet sand is approximately 6-10% heavier for an equivalent volume. Finally, the sand quantities are expressed in inches, which are easier to conceptualize for large quantities of sand.

TO CORE OR NOT TO CORE, THAT IS NOT THE QUESTION By now, many readers will have looked at the recommendation and said, “Aha. If we apply 40-50 ft.3 of sand per 1,000 ft.2 through regular topdressing applications, we will not need to core aerate the greens.” It is easy to see how this interpretation could be made, but this strategy is not recommended. There are agronomic and practical reasons for not trying this approach.

There are merits to removing organic matter through core aeration and packing these vertical columns that cut through the high organic matter zone with sand. Applying 50 ft.3 of sand per 1,000 ft.2 through surface topdressing would only require approximately 25 applications of 2.0 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2, or one application every two weeks. This would be far too stressful during the summer and would be difficult to work into the canopy during periods of slow winter growth. Invariably, interference with play and weather make this program impractical.

Similarly, do not try to meet the topdressing requirement with only core aeration and filling the holes with sand.

This method could result in layering. All applied sand is not worked into the holes; some falls between the holes. This excess sand would only be mixed into the canopy twice per year if the greens are aerated twice per year. Additionally, it would be difficult to keep sand as the primary component of the rootzone matrix near the surface without regular surface topdressing applications.

SAMPLE PROGRAMS The best program is one that includes a certain amount of core aeration along with regular sand topdressings. When considering tine sizes, select a size that allows easy and complete backfilling of the aeration holes. Based upon field observations, the smallest hole that can be reliably filled with sand is created by a tine of just less than √ in. Holes of 3⁄8 in. diameter are not

easily filled, even with the driest sand. Outlined below are a few sample programs to stimulate thought. There is no single program that is right for everybody, but with an overall goal of total topdressing applied, a plan that meets the needs of any course can be developed.

• Program 1: Big Holes, Big Spacing. This approach uses traditional aeration equipment with 5⁄8 in. tines on a 2 in. x 2 in. spacing. The greens are aerated once in the spring and once in the fall. A total of 36 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 (3,600 lbs. per 1,000 ft.2) is applied for the two core aerations. See Table 2 to see sand volumes required to fill aeration holes for other tine sizes and spacing patterns.

The remaining 14 ft.3 of sand necessary per 1,000 ft.2 to meet the 50 ft.3 goal is applied via light to moderate topdressings throughout the year. A light to moderate topdressing is considered to be anywhere from 0.5 ft.3 to 2.0 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 This is roughly equivalent to 50 to 200 lbs. of sand per 1,000 ft.2 • Program 2: Dethatching. This program is for new construction only or for a putting green that has met the topdressing requirement. A dethatching machine is used to physically remove organic matter from the upper portion of the profile.

Spring and fall dethatching treatments are performed. Less disruption to play is the primary advantage. This program is not recommended as a curative approach on greens with excessive organic matter. It is too difficult to incorporate sand into the channels made by the dethatching equipment, especially when the grooves are cut greater than 0.25 in. deep.

Table 2 volumes of sand needed to fill aeration holes for various tine sizes and configurations Ft. of Sand per Lbs. of Dry Sand 3

Outside Aeration

% Surface Area

1,000 ft.2 Needed to Fill

Tine Diameter (in.) Spacing (in.)

Impacted

Holes to 3 in. Depth

in. Depth

4.91% 2.45% 1.23% 11.04% 5.52% 2.76% 19.63% 9.82% 4.91% 30.68% 15.34% 7.67%

12.27 6.14 3.07 27.61 13.81 6.90 49.09 24.54 12.27 76.70 38.35 19.27

1227 614 307 2761 1381 690 4909 2454 1227 7670 3835 1917

1/4 1/4 1/4 3/8 3/8 3/8 1/2 1/2 1/2 5/8 5/8 5/8

1X1 1X2 2X2 1X1 1X2 2X2 1X1 1X2 2X2 1X1 1X2 2X2

per 1,000 ft.2 Needed to Fill Holes to 3

The amount of sand incorporated into the canopy following dethatching is much lower than with core aeration. As channel depth increases, sand incorporation decreases because the channels collapse and seal off. This may be considered a disadvantage because much more time must be spent applying light and moderate topdressings throughout the year. For example, assume the greens are dethatched with 9⁄64 in. blades. Approximately 14% of the sur-

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

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face area is impacted, but only 1-3 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 of sand is applied. This amount is highly variable and depends on how well the dethatching channels stay open. This leaves 40-44 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 left to be applied through light and moderate topdressings.

Many courses that use a dethatching machine use it in combination with an aerator. Some dethatch and aerate at the same time, while others dethatch and aerate on separate dates.

The moderate topdressings (2.0 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2) should be applied at a time of year when organic accumulation is most rapid. On bentgrass putting greens in the South, the period of October through April is the most prolific period of organic matter production. Bermudagrass greens generate the most organic matter in the summer months. Light topdressings can be applied at any time of the year.

• Small Holes, Small Spacing. A sample program using this approach might include the following: super quad tines with an outside tine diameter of 0.420 on a 1 in. x 11⁄8 in. spacing. The greens are aerated twice in the spring and once or twice in the fall. The total amount of sand required to fill the holes after each aeration is approximately 6.15 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 or 18-24 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 per year. The remaining 16-32 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 can be applied through light or moderate topdressings throughout the year.

This approach relies on smaller tine diameters and a tighter spacing pattern. The advantage of this program is reduced healing time because smaller diameter holes require less time to heal than larger holes. The disadvantages are the need for special equipment and more difficulty filling the aeration holes. As hole size decreases, the likelihood of sand particles bridging over the surface of the hole increases. The super quad tine only goes 1.75 in. into the rootzone, which could be a concern with a thick layer of organic accumulation. An aerator with variable spacing and a tractor with a creeper gear are necessary to duplicate this program. For best results, take the time to make sure the holes are open and clean, and try to use the driest sand possible.

THEORY VS. REALITY: CALCULATING SAND VOLUME Every golf course is faced with a unique set of circumstances.

Determining the total amount of topdressing applied can be challenging. Table 2 shows the approximate amount of sand necessary to fill aeration holes with sand for common tine sizes and spacing.

When recommended topdressing amounts are in hand, the turfgrass manager must adjust the topdressing applied if it is determined that the sand is not working easily into the holes.

Sometimes the greens are damp or the sand is wet. The degree to which sand is filled into the holes can vary, too. The key point is not whether the suggested amount is applied to fill the holes, but how much sand actually is applied. This information is helpful when calculating yearly volume and determining how much sand must be added through light or moderate topdressing applications.

When calculating sand volume applied, another con12

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

sideration is estimating how much sand is thrown onto areas other than the putting green. This is an issue when spinner topdressers are used to apply light or moderate topdressings.

MEETING THE RECOMMENDATION: IS MORE OR LESS NEEDED? The beauty of coupling aeration and topdressing together and making an annual topdressing recommendation as a target value is its simplicity and flexibility. It may need to be adjusted upward or downward, depending on individual circumstances.

The Atlanta, Georgia, climate was selected for this recommendation. Other areas may require a higher topdressing or lower requirement based upon some of the factors listed below.

• Nitrogen Levels. Nitrogen is directly related to organic matter production. Higher nitrogen programs may be required on putting greens with extremely high traffic levels or on greens that must be grown in from some type of seasonal damage.

More topdressing may be required. Greens managed under low nitrogen programs may require somewhat less sand.

• Soil pH. A soil pH > 5.5 is optimal for bacterial activity and organic matter decomposition. Soil pH much below this level reduces organic matter decomposition, and more topdressing may be required.

• Turfgrass Species. The 40-50 ft. 3 per 1,000 ft. 2 recommendation is the minimum requirement for many bentgrass and/or Poa annua putting greens and may need to be adjusted annually. Non-overseeded Tifdwarf or Tifgreen bermudagrass putting greens will have a slightly lower annual topdressing requirement, somewhere in the range of 35-40 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 Non-overseeded ultradwarf greens may require 40-50 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2 Overseeded Tifdwarf or Tifgreen bermudagrass putting greens will require 40-50 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2, but with newer ultradwarf cultivars that tend to accumulate organic matter in the surface 1-2 in., a somewhat higher amount may be necessary. For newer bermudagrass cultivars, the “small holes, small spacing” program applied at more than two times per year is a good option. High annual topdressing sand rates are important for the newer bentgrass cultivars that tend to accumulate organic matter in the surface or in climates where organic matter accumulation is favored. In these situations, the “small holes, small spacing” program is worth trying.

UNUSUAL FIELD CONDITIONS

Two common field conditions exist that may require a higher sand requirement or an adjustment as to when sand should be applied.

• Rapid Root Dieback. This condition is characterized by the rapid death of a bentgrass root system caused by high temperatures in the summer months. When bentgrass roots die back

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suddenly, the nature of some of the organic matter changes from live root structures to decomposing organic matter with a gellike consistency. Dr. Carrow states, “It is not the lack of roots from root dieback that is the problem, but the creation of an excessively moist layer from the decomposing root tissues with very low oxygen during hot weather in response to the rapid root dieback” (Carrow et al., 2002). The remaining roots are under low oxygen stress and cannot take up enough water for transpirational cooling. Reduced water uptake, stomatal closure, and high-temperature kill can follow. Field symptoms are a yellowing of the turf and death over a one- to three-day period of hot, humid weather. This scenario can occur at organic matter levels of 3-5% by weight in the top 1 in. of the rootzone, but it is much more likely when organic matter is greater than 5% by weight (Carrow et al., 2002). After the hot weather has ended, it will be necessary to continue diluting this rapid accumulation of organic matter created from the dead roots as well as organic matter arising from new root initiation. The topdressing requirement will increase and should be met through a combination of surface topdressing and filling aeration holes.

• Cool-Weather Organic Accumulation. Root growth can be rapid during periods of cool weather. Roots grow down through the macropore channels and adventitious roots grow near the surface. Although live organic matter does not reduce oxygen availability as severely as decomposing organic matter, oxygen infiltration and water infiltration can decrease as the roots

fill many of the macropores. This is commonly observed in the winter to early spring months when greens begin to puddle more substantially after a rain. The problem is more severe in cooler climates with prolonged soil temperatures above 32°F, but less than 55°F. Bentgrass/Poa annua will grow in temperatures above 32°F, but soil microbes necessary for organic matter decomposition do not function below 55°F. These conditions are more common in northern climates and, particularly, coastal northeastern and coastal northwestern climates. Other than a reduction in water infiltration, surface symptoms are not observed, but suboptimal oxygen levels can reduce the rate of deeper rooting. After spring aeration, adequate oxygen will be available for maximum root growth.

PROGRESS REPORT Turf managers who have embarked on an organic matter dilution program will be curious about how the program is working.

There are three ways to assess the program’s effectiveness.

The first is to send a core sample of the top 1-2 in. of the rootzone profile to a physical soil testing laboratory. Request a test to determine organic matter by weight.

A result of less than 3% organic matter by weight is

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good news and indicates that organic accumulation has been well diluted with sand. A result of 3-5% organic matter by weight is borderline, and problems caused by plugged macropores could occur.

Pay careful attention to the organic matter dilution program over the next few seasons. A result of 5% or more is cause for concern. A serious effort must be made to reduce organic matter buildup. Place more emphasis on core aeration and topdressing to fill the holes.

Some superintendents may sample and find organic matter contents greater than 5% without any apparent symptoms at the time of sampling, but the chances for future problems are much greater.

In the cooler regions of bentgrass adaptation, organic matter content can be above the 5% limit without immediate concern.

The reason is that these climates have fewer hot periods in the summer. When periods of high heat do occur, bentgrass can decline rapidly. Also, in these climates organic matter can continue to increase to a point where decline occurs from oxygen stress, regardless of the temperature.

Cases of seasonal organic matter accumulation fluctuations occur on bentgrass during the winter in the southern transition zone and on overseeded bermudagrass greens in the late spring.

Root growth during cool periods may increase organic matter 1-2% from the fall level due to live roots contributing to the overall organic matter content. The seasonal changes suggest that sampling for organic matter for both bentgrass and bermudagrass should be in

May and late summer. The highest organic matter content will occur during May, especially on overseeded bermudagrass greens, and late summer should be the time of the year with the lowest organic matter content.

A second method to assess the program’s effectiveness is to take field observations of the soil profile. If layering is present, as evidenced by a distinct sand or organic matter layer(s), it is likely that topdressing applications are being made too far apart or that light applications between moderate applications are too light. Also, look for the columns of sand created by aeration and top-dressing.

Checking this right after aeration allows the turf manager to see if the holes are being completely filled with sand.

A final assessment method involves the use of a double ring infiltrometer to take seasonal infiltration readings. Readings taken in conjunction with organic matter sampling can be especially useful. By taking an infiltration measurement at the same place on a green a few times a season, the superintendent can obtain several important pieces of information. First, the changes in infiltration by season will be apparent. Second, after taking readings for a few years, the superintendent can see if infiltration rates are increasing, decreasing, or staying the same in response to the organic matter dilution program.

Seeing is believing with volumetric measurements.

Light, medium, and heavy surface topdressing rates are approximately 0.50 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2, 2.0 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2, and 4.0 ft.3 per 1,000 ft.2, respectively.

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w w w. g r e e n s i r o n . c o m 14

1 800 661 4942

woodbay@greensiron.com

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

Organic matter accumulation in the upper rootzone is the primary reason why putting greens sometimes fail over time. Proper aeration and topdressing programs can prevent excess organic matter accumulation.

Rapid root dieback on bentgrass putting greens in the summer produces a gel-like layer in the upper rootzone and low soil oxygen levels. Turf loss can occur within 24 to 72 hours, and extra aeration and topdressing will be needed to promote recovery.

Mickey Lovett – Paris, TN

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CONCLUSION

“More sand, laddie,” is a quote attributed to Old Tom Morris. Although Old Tom probably never imagined that the science and art of putting green maintenance would ever reach today’s quality levels attained on a daily basis, his emphasis on sand still rings true. The information presented in this article has the scientific backin g to confirm what most in the industry know that aeration and topdressing are the foundation for successful putting greens. T ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS A special thank-you to Dr. Bob Carrow, University of Georgia, and Mike Pilo, golf course superintendent, Charlotte Country Club (Georgia).

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REFERENCES Beard, J. B. 2002. Turf Management for Golf Courses, 2nd ed. Ann Arbor Press, Chelsea, Mich.

Carrow, R. 1996. Summer decline of bentgrass greens. Golf Course Management. 64(6):51-56.

Carrow, R. 1998. Organic matter dynamics in the surface zone of a USGA green: practices to alleviate problems. The USGA 1998 Turfgrass and Environmental Research Summary. Golf House, Far Hills, N.J. Carrow, R., P. O’Brien, and C. Hartwiger. 2002.

Why Putting Greens Sometimes Fail. Unpublished manuscript.

Curtis, A. 2001. Evolution of a sand-based rootzone. Golf Course Management. 69(3). www. gcsaa.org/gcm/2001/- mar01/03evolution.html.

Habeck, J., and N. Christians. 2000. Time alters greens’ key characteristics. Golf Course Management. 68(5). www.gcsaa.- org/gcm/2000/may00/ oftime.html.

Hartwiger, C. 1997. A shower a day fills the holes ok. USGA Green Section Record. 35(3):18.

O’Brien, P., and C. Hartwiger. 2001. Core aeration by the numbers. USGA Green Section Record. 39(4):8-9.

Pat O’Brien, director, and Chris Hartwiger, agronomist, run the Green Section’s Southeast Region.

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A 2004 CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW 18

A GROWING TRADITION

IN TENNESSEE'S

GREEN INDUSTRY

38th Annual Tennessee Turfgrass Association Conference and trade show

JANUARY 11–13, 2003 O P R Y L AND HOTE L • NASH V I L L E , TENNESSEE

Tennessee Turfgrass Association Conference and trade show

Please complete, sign and return this form with your payment. company name: Please list all information as you would like it to appear in the directory.

address: city/state/zip: telephone: fax: email:

PRIMARY FUNCTION COMMERCIAL q Commercial Lawn Care q Retail Center q Landscaping q Irrigation Contractor q DOT q Other_______________

TURF MANAGER q Golf Course q Parks & Recreation q Sports Field q Hotel/Resort q Hospital/Health Care q School/University q Cemetery q Other_______________

VENDOR q Equipment Dealer q Distributor q Manufacturer q Other_______________

Please list the first and last names of the persons attending the 2004 Conference & Trade Show. Attach separate list if needed.

PLEASE CHECK THE BOX FOR ADDITIONAL ASSOCIATION AFFILIATIONS:

q PGMS

q TNLA

q TVSTMA

q TGCSA

q Other ______________

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION OPTIONS TOTAL

Early Primary Member Registration On-Site Primary Member Registration

$ $

150.00 175.00

Early Associate Member Registration On-Site Associate Member Registration

$ $

105.00 120.00

Price includes 2003 Membership Dues

$

Registrants from the same facility are eligible for Associate Membership if the facility has two primary members.

Early Student Member Registration On-Site Student Member Registration

$ $

One Day Pass (Limit 1)

75.00

$

One Day Student Pass (Limit 1)

$

Awards Luncheon Ticket

20.00

$

$

55.00 60.00

$ $

10.00

$ $

Endowment Fund Contribution

q Research

q Scholarship

$

q Extension

Please make checks payable to:

Tennessee Turfgrass Association • 400 Franklin Road • Franklin, TN 37069

TTA Office Use Only

Date ______________

TTA 2004 CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

38th Annual

Check No. ______________

GRAND TOTAL

Cash ______________

$

Amount ______________

EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 19, 2003.

ALL REGISTRATION FORMS (INCLUDING FULL PAYMENT) MUST BE RECEIVED (NOT POSTMARKED) BY THIS DATE.

19

20

XHI B IT O R

IN F O R M A TI O N

A 2004 CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

RULES & REGULATIONS Opening and Closing: The exhibit officially opens at 9:45 A.M., Monday, January 12, 2004, and will close at 12:15 P.M., Tuesday, January 13, 2004.

of the exhibit booths. No exhibitor shall assign, sublet or share the whole or part of the space allotted without the knowledge and approval of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association.

Exhibit Set-up and Breakdown: Set-up will begin at 11:00 A.M. on January 11, 2004, for island exhibitors only. General booth set-up will continue from 1:00 P.M., January 11, 2004, until 8:00 P.M. The exhibit hall will remain open for exhibitor set-up at 7:00 A.M., Monday, January 12, 2004, until 9:00 A.M. All exhibits must be completed by 9:00 A.M., Monday, January 12, 2004.

Insurance and Fire Protection: The Tennessee Turfgrass Association will exercise all reasonable care for the protection of exhibitor’s material and displays. An official of the trade show committee will be on duty in the exhibit area during set-up and breakdown periods. The exhibit area will be secured during non-exhibit hours.

Booths: There will be eighty (80) 9’ x 10’ booths available. Each will be piped, draped and carpeted. Each will have a 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, wastebasket and one I.D. sign. All booths will be carpeted in teal with aisleways and entrances in red. There will also be four (4) islands available. Each will have three (3) skirted tables, six (6) chairs, three (3) wastebaskets and one (1) I.D. sign. Island size and cost varies.

Contract for Space: The application for space and the formal notice of assignment constitutes a contract for the right to use the space so allotted. In the event of fire, strikes, or other uncontrollable circumstances, the contract will not be binding. The Tennessee Turfgrass Association reserves the right to cancel any contract with any exhibitor any time prior to or during the conference.

Use of Space: All demonstrations, interviews, distributions of advertising material or other activities must be confined to the limits

Liability: The exhibitor agrees to make no claim against the Tennessee Turfgrass Association nor its members or employees for loss, theft, damage or destruction of goods, nor any injury to himself/ herself, or employees prior, during or subsequent to the period covered by the exhibit contract, nor for any damage whatsoever, including the damage to his business by reason of failure to provide space for the exhibit, nor for failure to hold the Conference as scheduled.

The exhibitor, upon signing the contract for exhibit space, expressly releases the foregoing named conference and individuals from any and all claims for such loss, damage or injury.

Cancellation: In the event an exhibitor must cancel, and cannot exhibit, the following will apply.

A. If the reserved booth or island can be contracted, a 100% refund will be granted.

B. If the reserved booth or island can not be contracted, a 50% refund will be granted.

GCSAA SEMINAR WEDNESDAY JANUARY 14TH TIM E TBA

DAVID STONE & MILT ENGELKEY

floor plan Please indicate preferences on Exhibit Space contract

“MANAGEMENT OF ZOYSIA GRASS FOR GOLF COURSES”

Conference and trade show

Please complete, sign and return this form with your payment.

BOOTHS SIZE UNIT PRICE

$50

Attend the TTA Luncheon & Business Meeting! $20/person January 13, 2004

TOTAL

Please make checks payable to:

Tennessee Turfgrass Association 400 Franklin Road FIRST CHOICE Franklin, TN 37069

SECOND CHOICE

THIRD CHOICE

BOOTH PREFERENCE ISLAND PREFERENCE OTHER

Please print or type the following: Name:

(Person responsible for the booth)

MEMBER Name: (To be included in Directory)

Signature: Firm: (As your ID sign should read)

Mailing Address: City:

State: Zip:

Telephone:

F O R M

All reservations are made on a first-paid, first-reserved basis only. Please note the cancellation policy as outlined in the section of the brochure entitled “Rules & Regulations.” If electricity is required, please contact Opryland Hotel at (615) 889-1000. Purchased luncheon tickets will be included in vendor packet upon registration and setup.

R E GI S T R A TI O N

BOOTHS

100 – 816 90 SQ FT $495

ISLANDS

A 2,500 SQ FT $3,585

B 2,500 SQ FT $3,585

C 3,000 SQ FT $4,300

D 2,400 SQ FT $3,450 ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIP TO TTA: (1 included with 9’ x10’ booth, 4 included with island)

QUANTITY TOTAL

TTA 2004 CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

Tennessee Turfgrass Association

XHI B IT O R

38th Annual

Fax:

EMAIL: **ADDITIONAL NAMES FOR BADGES: (**If more space is needed, please attach a complete list)

**ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: (**If more space is needed, please attach a complete list)

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRODUCTS/SERVICES YOU SELL OR PROVIDE:

21

A MESSAGE FROM TVSTMA

I

t has been a great year! As you read this, we will be well into the football and soccer season. Although the bermuda got off to a slow start, the weather’s been great for growing turf. With many people experiencing severe budget cuts, it’s been a difficult year to maintain all the growth. I am continually amazed at the versatility and creative ability you must have to be a turfgrass manager involved in this industry. You are all to be commended.

I would like to thank Ross D’Lugos and the Tennessee Smokies organization for hosting a very successful spring seminar in East Tennessee; Brian Kusler and the Mike Rose Soccer organization have my gratitude for holding our weather delayed meeting in West Tennessee and thanks to all those involved in the Whites Creek/Titans field renovation.

The Whites Creek field was officially dedicated in an opening ceremony on August 29th with Mayor Purcell and Titan president and CEO, Jeff Diamond and his wife in attendance, along with many other dignitaries from the Metro Schools, Metro Council, the Titans and the TVSTMA.

The whole field renovation process will be presented as part of our education session during the Tennessee Turfgrass Association Convention in early January. I hope to see you there as it will be a great meeting.

Sincerely,

Agro Distribution, LLC d/b/a ProSource One

Cal Hill – West Tennessee Sales 5387 Pleasant View Rd. Memphis, TN 38134 P: 901/383-2524 F: 901/388-0892 M: 901/412-0121 E: chill@prosourceone.com

Mike P. Swindle – West Tennessee Sales 5387 Pleasant View Rd. Memphis, TN 38134 P: 901/383-2524 F: 901/388-0892 M: 901/849-0403 E: mswindle@prosourceone.com

Joe Hill – East Tennessee Sales P.O. Box 119 Springfield, TN 37172 P: 800/535-4552 F: 615/384-3364 M: 865/567-4210 E: kjhill@prosourceone.com

Jeff Easley – Mid-Tennessee Sales P.O. Box 119 Springfield, TN 37172 P: 800/535-4552 F: 615/384-3364 M: 615/207-3952, Nextel ID# 148*22459*1 E: jeasley@prosourceone.com

Bob Elliott T 22

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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GREEN LINES

Reprinted from “Through the Green”, July/August 2003, courtesy of the Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association

W

hile those of us living in the Southeast have been dodging rainfall, flood waters and severe weather this spring, the USGA has been retooling and improving their Web site. A new feature on the site will benefit golf courses throughout the region. It has a wide range of benefits for both cool and warm season turfgrasses, is safe to use and, best of all, is free. It is called TERO.

WHAT IS TERO?

Connecting to the USGA TERO Web site is easy. Simply type http:// usgatero.msu.edu into your Internet browser, click “Enter,” and you will be taken directly to TERO. From there you may select current and past issues to review.

WHY SHOULD I USE TERO?

TERO is an acronym for the USGA Turfgrass and Environmental Research Online. The USGA’s Turfgrass and Environmental Research Program has funded over 215 research projects at a cost of $21 million since 1983. These projects have generated valuable information for golf course superintendents, turfgrass researchers, and anyone studying turfgrass management. However, a research project is not completed until the results are communicated to the end user. Delivering the results of the research in a paper format to all interested individuals has been challenging and expensive.

The development of the Internet and improved Internet connections have development of a Web site that can provide fast results of USGA-funded research. Delivery of research via a Web site is far more efficient and dynamic.

The site can be used by people around the world, and users can access the information in minutes as opposed to requesting/searching for a printed copy of a research article.

An interesting feature of TERO is its relationship with TGIF (Turfgrass Information File) at the Michigan State library. All of the references in the TERO articles have TGIF file numbers, allowing the reader to link directly to an abstract of that reference for more information. No subscription to TGIF is necessary to view these links.

HOW DO I USE TERO? 24

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

TERO is a great example of how the industry and universities can work together cooperatively to generate useful information. Science has benefited the game of golf for many years, and the information generated from USGA-sponsored research will continue to do the same. Any interested turf manager will learn something they can take with them to their job. The best news is that more information is yet to come. Dr. Jeff Nus of the USGA Green Section will be adding new articles twice a month. Be sure to save a link to this site and check it regularly.

USGA GREEN SECTION SOUTHEAST REGION LINKS ON LINE

Every month, USGA Green Section agronomists travel throughout the Southeast and are exposed to a wide variety of turfgrass conditions and agronomic topics. Each region within the USGA Green Section producesa bimonthly update on regional conditions called “Links On Line”. These updates are posted on the USGA Green Section Web Site. To enhance this service, the Southeast Region’s Links On Line update is available free of charge via email. If you would like to take advantage of this free service, e-mail Pat O’Brien at patobrien@usga.org. We offer this service to anyone at your club, turfgrass students in the region, or any other interested people with an e-mail address. T

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

ASSOCIATE NEWS

Turf Producers Elect

Bobby Winstead t o

3 - Y e a r

Rolling Meadows, IL (August 2003)... Bobby Winstead, owner and president of Winstead Turf Farms, Inc., Arlington, TN, was elected to a three-year term on the 11-person Turfgrass Producers International (TPI) Board of Trustees. The election took place during the organization’s Summer Convention and Field Day in Dayton, OH, July 23-25.

In addition to serving on various TPI committees, he has been active in other industry organizations, including the Memphis Area Home Builders Association, Tennessee Turfgrass Association, Memphis Area Golf Course Association along with the following civic organizations: Memphis and Arlington Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. His FSG001-Four Seasons Golf Company - proof 1 Business Card vertical Full-color for TN Turfgrass FEB/MARCH 2002

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With members in 42 counties, TPI provides a wide variety of educational programs and publications that include Turf News magazine and the Business Management newsletter. It also operates the Turf Resource Center providing scientifically documented information on turfgrass and the environment to consumers and landscape professionals. TPI’s membership is comprised of turfgrass sod and seed producers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers, and various individuals involved in education and/or research. T

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25

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RESEARCH VIEWS

By: Travis Teuton, John Sorochan, and Chris Main

A

nnual bluegrass (Poa annua), or as we so affectionately know it as just poa, has traditionally been one of the hardest weeds to control in cool season grasses. Many superintendents have spent sleepless nights trying to figure out how to kill poa in their bentgrass putting greens. n the past preemergence herbicide applications of Bensumec or Deminsion and growth regulators such as Primo, Proxy, and Embark have been used to control emergence, growth, and seed head production, but have had only limited success. There are two main reason for the lack of control, one is there is no real way to reduce the seed bank once a population of poa is established and two the perennial types of poa survive summer heat stress. The combination of preemergence and growth regulators work well in not letting the poa population grow, but they don’t offer complete control.

However, times may have changed with a new product called Velocity herbicide (bispyrobac sodium). Valent USA is currently seeking EPA registration for selective control of poa in bentgrass and ryegrass roughs, fairways, and tees. Velocity will not be labeled for bentgrass putting greens initially.

Velocity is an acetyl lactase synthesis (ALS) inhibitor that stops the production branch chain amino acids. ALS herbicides are highly selective in the species of weeds that are controlled and turf species that are tolerant. The difference in control is the affinity of the herbicide for the particular ALS enzyme of each individual plant species. There are many ALS inhibiting herbicides, such as Manor (metsulfuron), Manage (halosulfuron), Revolver (foramsulfuron), Transit (rimsuluron), Corsair (chloroUntreated control (left) vs. 0.44 oz/A weekly 57 days after application (above).

sulfuron), Image (imazaquin), and Plateau (imazapic), however turfgrass tolerance and weed species controlled varies with each of these products. (Note: none of the above products are labeled for bentgrass putting greens and extreme bentgrass injury or death may occur.)

The University of Tennessee in conjunction with Valent USA is currently evaluating Velocity on bentgrass putting greens for efficacy, bentgrass tolerance, and overall quality of the putting surface after application.

The study was conducted on the putting green at Three Ridges Golf Course in Knoxville, TN with Andrew Crawford (superintendent), on March 31, 2003. Poa infested approximately 60% of the green and was uniform across the entire treatment area. There were a total of seven treatments that included Velocity 80 WP at 0.88 oz/A monthly for 3 months, 0.22 oz/A weekly for 3 months, 0.44 oz/A weekly for 2 months and 3 months, 0.22 oz/A every other week for 2.5 months, 0.44 oz/A every other week for 2.5 months, and untreated check for comparison. Treatments were rated weekly for four months to determine poa control, bentgrass injury, and overall turfgrass quality (color, density, and playability). Control and bentgrass injury were rated on a scale of 0-100%, 0 indicating no control or injury and 100 indicating complete control and bentgrass death. Quality was rated on a scale of 0-9, 0 indicating dead turf and 9 indicating the highest quality turf (Augusta National) and a minimum acceptable rating of 6.5.

Treatments were applied to 5 by 10 feet plots in 23 gallons of water carrier per acre with a CO2 charged backpack research sprayer. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and treatment means were separated using Fishers Protected LSD for comparison of treatments.

Control 30 days after application (DAA) was unacceptable (< 85%) for all treatments with weekly applications at 0.44 oz/A showing the best results at 68% and 71%, respectively (Table 1). Poa control increased with both weekly 0.44 oz/A treatments. Treament with 0.44 oz/A weekly was the best treatment with ≥ 98% control for the duration of the study. By 86 DAA control increased with the 0.22 oz/A weekly applications to 94%. By 105 DAA the weekly treatment of 0.22 and 0.44 oz/A were the only treatment to provide acceptable control (≥ 86%).

Bentgrass injury 30 DAA was above the maximum 10% injury (generally 28

acceptable) for the 0.22 oz/A weekly treatment at 15 %, both 0.44 oz/A weekly treatments at 50% and 46%, and 0.44 oz/A every other week (EOW) at 10% (Table 2). However, at 57 DAA only the 0.44 oz/A weekly at eight applications remained above the maximum tolerable 10% injury level. Bentgrass injury at the 86 and 105 DAA were minimal. Injury early is presumably a lack of bentgrass tolerance to Velocity. Although, as the applications reoccur on a scheduled basis, it appears that bentgrass develops a tolerance to Velocity and injury decreases over time.

Overall quality 30 DAA was below the minimum 6.5 for the weekly applications of Velocity at 0.44 oz/A (Table 3).

At 57 DAA all weekly applications of Velocity were at or below the minimum 6.5 and remained below that level for the duration of the trial. Percent poa population is the reason for the weekly observations to be so low. Good poa control was achieved with the weekly treatment and bare ground remained when the poa was removed by Velocity. Since overall quality is dependent on many factors such as color, density, and overall playability, it is logical that quality ratings are low for the weekly treatments. One of the problems with Velocity, like many of the ALS herbicides, it can act as a growth regulator and bentgrass recovery may be slow.

Initial research has shown Velocity may give superintendents a new weapon in their arsenal against poa. Although not bullet proof, Velocity should have a fit for almost all golf courses.

Weekly applications of 0.22 or 0.44 oz/A for at least 8 weeks will give good to excellent poa control. Some injury, mostly discoloration of bentgrass may occur and overall quality of the greens will decrease with the absence of poa. Bentgrass injury and recovery will change during different times of the year with spring and fall applications being the best for bentgrass tolerance and recovery.

Additional research will continue this fall and next spring to access different rates, timings, surfactants, growth stimulants, and mowing heights to increase poa control and decrease bentgrass injury. T

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T E N N E S S E E T U R F G R A S S O C ****IMPORTANT! T O B E R / N O V E M B E R 2 0 0 3 EIfm aad i l T TisA acorrect, t : t n t u r f g rplease a s s a s s n @initial a o l . c o mand date here:_________________ Please fax this proof to 615-794-4524 along with the release form. Thank you.

POA ANNUA CONTROL CONTINUED Table 2. Bentgrass injury observed with Velocity 80 WP herbicide

Table 1. Poa annua control with Velocity 80 WP herbicide

Days After Application Treatment Rate No. of Application 30 57 86 ——— % Control ——— 105

oz/A Applications Timing

Days After Application Treatment Rate No. of Application 30 57 86 ——— % Control ——— 105

oz/A Applications Timing

Untreated 0e Velocity 0.88 4 Monthly 55 c Velocity 0.22 11 Weekly 86 adc Velocity 0.44 8 Weekly 99 a Velocity 0.44 11 Weekly 98 ab Velocity 0.22 6 EOWa 15 d Velocity 0.44 6 EOW 64 bc LSD (0.05) 34 a EOW = every other week

Untreated 0 Velocity 0.88 4 Monthly 0 Velocity 0.22 11 Weekly 0 Velocity 0.44 8 Weekly 0 Velocity 0.44 11 Weekly 0 Velocity 0.22 6 EOWa 0 Velocity 0.44 6 EOW 0 LSD (0.05) nsb a EOW = every other week a ns = not significant

0 c

0 d

0 d

3 c

13 d

81 a

30 b

70 b

94 ab

71 a

99 a

100 a

68 a

100 a

99 ab

8 c

28 c

55 c

25 b

38 c

80 ab

17

13

19

0 c

0 d

0 d

0 c

0 d

5 a

15 b

3 b

3 ab

50 a

13 a

0 c

46 a

5 b

1 bc

5 bc

0 b

0 c

10 bc

0 b

0 c

14

7

2

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

29

WHY YOU SHOULD BECOME A MEMBER OF

TTA

The Tennessee Turfgrass Association is a non-profit, professional organization dedicated to the enhancement of turfgrass management from all aspects.

Are you searching for new outlets to advertise and promote your business?

TTA offers you a publication with reasonable advertising rates that is distributed regionally and nationally.

Do you have requirements to obtain State pesticide points or continuing educational points for other certification?

TTA offers a wide range of points for pesticide and other certifications through its educational seminars.

Would you or a member of your family like scholarship dollars for higher education?

TTA has developed a scholarship program to assist with the ever rising cost of higher education.

The Tennessee Turfgrass Association is your statewide connection to the Green Industry. If you would like to become a member of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, please contact the headquarters at 400 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN 37069; Phone: (615) 591-8286; Email: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com.

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RESEARCH VIEWS

Leah A Brilman, Ph.D., Research Director, Seed Research of Oregon Biotechnology has become increasingly important in everyone’s life, from genome projects that may help us understand and cure diseases, to genetically-modified crops that allow less herbicides and insecticides to be used in crop production, to fears that a new disease may be created through biotechnology. The average person may not understand the risks and benefits of biotechnology, but it will continue to impact our lives. In the turfgrass industry we are also hearing more about biotechnology and want to make informed decisions about its use.

The aspect of biotechnology that has received the most interest by our industry recently is Round-up Ready bentgrass. This is the first application of a genetically engineered or biotechnologyderived turfgrass. This technique involves insertion of novel genes for specific characteristics into the chromosomes of a plant either by using a gene gun or Agrobacterium. Although this is the first application, many other genes have been inserted into turfgrasses for study including genes for resistance to the herbicide glufosinate, various chitinase genes for disease resistance, genes for male sterility, and growth-related genes to control vertical elongation. Various programs have inserted genes into creeping bentrass, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass and tall fescue.

In order for genetic engineering to work certain key elements are necessary: a method to insert the gene, a promoter gene, which is like an “on” switch, a selectable gene and the gene of interest. Theoretically, in Kentucky bluegrass varieties, a properly integrated gene, with a strong promoter that is active in the correct tissue, could be increased directly and have expression in the variety due to its apomictic reproduction. Any gene inserted into a creeping bentgrass or tall fescue plant would require crossing the transformed plant with other desirable plants of the same species to develop a population expressing the gene of interest, and from this population a variety could be selected. The creeping bentgrass developed for Round-up resistance is currently being evaluated by USDA-APHIS and EPA for deregulation. The Round-up resistance is the selectable gene used to find the transformed plants in the tissue culture, and ap-

Reprinted from “Through the Green”, July/August 2003, courtesy of the Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association

proval of this product is necessary before other genes of interest can be incorporated and commercialized. For example, if you had a gene for disease resistance you wanted to insert into a turfgrass, it would be difficult to find the cells containing that gene in the tissue culture.

If the gene for disease resistance were attached to a gene for Roundup resistance, you would insert both together. If you grew the tissue culture in the presence of Round-up, only those cells with the Roundup gene and the attached disease resistance gene would survive. You could then find the transformed cells and grow them into plants.

Other DNA techniques would enable you to check the status of your disease-resistance gene once you had the transformed plants.

Questions need to be answered about transgenic grasses, including the risk of these genes being transferred into related weed species and the potential for the targeted weed or disease to rapidly develop resistance to the herbicide or enzyme. The USDA had a series of meetings to discuss these questions, since this is the first perennial crop that has been applied for approval and has a welldefined series of experiments before release is approved. In both weed control and disease resistance it is always important to have more than one method or gene for control available to help prevent the development of resistance. A defined stewardship program will be implemented for any course using a transgenic crop. Other genes in other species are also being explored, and this process of approval must be done for each gene and each species. Currently bringing genetically engineered plants to the market is a very expensive and time-consuming process. Only genes and species that show a significant improvement with a large enough market to justify this expenditure will be marketed.

Biotechnology is also giving us the ability to find and track genes in turfgrass species more easily. The species that the most progress has been made on include perennial ryegrass, tall fescue and bermudagrass. These species are all important for both turf and forage throughout the world.

Improvement of turfgrass varieties is dependent on the ability to efficiently screen large numbers of plants for the desired

B I O T E C H N O L O G Y C O N T I N U E D characteristic(s). The selected plants need to be crossed together and Many of these species could be crossed with turfgrass species, but the progeny (offspring) evaluated again for the characteristic(s). If the the resulting hybrids must go through many cycles of selection to characteristic is highly heritable the majority of the population may eliminate undesirable genes and restore fertility. Other species have then have the characteristic, or additional cycles of selection must be strong reproductive barriers that prevent crosses. Transferring only performed. Due to the complex inheritance of many desired characthe desired genes would enable an improved product to be achieved teristics and higher ploidy levels of most turfgrass species, the ability more rapidly. It has been suggested that these types of gene transfers to concentrate many of them in one population or variety is often should have less expensive difficult. It is usually necessary to evaluate the selected plants and regulatory process. progeny over a number of years and environments to reliably screen

Biotechnology offers us a great potential for the future to for some characteristics. In addition, it is often difficult to screen help reduce environmental impacts. As with any technology, we individual plants for disease resistance since it is usually necessary to must evaluate the risks and benefits. If herbicide resistance, disease obtain mature plant or turf stand to reliably screen for the resistance. resistance or insect resistance is obtained through genetic engineerDevelopment of reliable methods to screen large numbers of plants ing, traditional breeding or using molecular markers, we must be and efficiently combine them as varieties are still required. This is an good stewards and follow advice such as chemical rotation or estabarea where use of molecular markers may be very helpful in turfgrass lishing refuges for the insects. If it is important to prevent spread into breeding. If markers were available that were highly linked to a native population of these genes we must make sure we keep the turf desirable characteristic, such as a gene for disease resistance, it may mown and prohibit its spread into wild areas. This research has great be possible to more rapidly screen plants for these characteristics. We potential, but it will move slower into turf because we are dealing could insure all plants in a population expressed the gene(s) of interwith many species of grass and many levels of management in perenest and could pass it on to progeny. nial species so the market potential is very different than agricultural

New knowledge of comparative genetics between all grasscrops. Most turf varieties for some time will probably come from es, including the cereals, and the commonality of resistance gene traditional breeding, but the potential for improvement with new analogs between many plant species opens up the possibilities of technologies may enable solutions for the more difficult breeding using genes, or DNA segments, identified in other species as proves problems. T for disease resistance genes in turfgrasses.

This may make it easier to identify useful genes in unimproved germplasm and rapidly integrate them into varieties. The International Lolium Genome Initiative is a cooperative program involving researchers 3277 Chimney Rock Road from Australia, the UK, France, Germany, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Japan and the United States in finding genetic markers in ryegrass that can be used by both turf and forage breeders. The Noble Foundation of Ardmore, OK is working on genetic markers in tall fescues, and because of the www.turfmountain.com genomic relationships between perennial rygrass and tall fescue these may be useful in both species and help define the genetic differences between them. Researchers have also started the initial work to examYou know how you want your course ine the genetics of bentgrasses. Examples to look and play... include finding genetic markers for gray leaf spots resistance in ryegrass by using We know how to get it there! resistance genes from other species such as rice. Resistance genes for crown rust resisGolf Course Construction & Renovation— tance have been identified in one ryegrass Greens, Tees, Bunkers, Shaping, Grassing, cross, and it may be possible to use this in Irrigation, Rock Work and more. For more other populations. information, call us at 828-692-2001.

Genes identified through genomic work in closely related species 34 Highland Golf Drive • Flat Rock, NC 28731• Fax: 828-692-7552 may also be useful in genetic engineering. www.coursedoctors.com • Email: coursedoctors@mindspring.com

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

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34

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

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Methods

Contact: Kelly Laabs, Canyon Communications: 480.775.8880 Jack Fry, Kansas State University: 785.532.1430

on golf greens are an Ball marks increasingly frustrating problem, both for golfers who insist on a smooth surface and for the maintenance crew charged with keeping the greens healthy and playable. Now, for the first time ever, some real solutions are being scientifically tested and the results are promising.

Professor Jack Fry and his co-workers in the Department of Horticulture, Forestry and Recreation Resources at Kansas State University, Manhattan, recently concluded a study evaluating ball mark repair methods and recovery of the turfgrass on the green.

According to Fry, there has been no science-based information characterizing ball marks and their recovery. The study he conducted compared five ball mark repair strategies for their effects on a creeping L-93 creeping bentgrass putting green surface at Colbert Hills Golf Course in Manhattan.

Dave Gourlay, Director of Golf Operations at Colbert Hills, witnessed the project from start to finish. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This study simulated the exact conditions of what is happening on greens today, so the results are real-life. Hopefully, these results will provide awareness, real data and answers to golf courses facing the ball mark 35

BALL MARK

CONTINUED

problem.”

The study compared these ball mark repair methods: 1) no ball mark (control); 2) unrepaired ball mark; 3) GreenFix® putter grip tool; 4) traditional ball mark repair tool used improperly; 5) traditional ball mark repair tool used properly; and 6) GreenFix® Pro ball mark repair tool, used 10 days after the mark was made.

Data was collected on ball mark volume and diameter, surface quality, turf quality and days to complete ball mark recover (see accompanying graphs).

The traditional ball mark repair tool was a standard, metal, two-prong tool similar to those available in most golf pro shops. Proper use was based on guidelines of the Golf Course Superintendents Association (GCSAA). Improper use was based on a method employed by many golfers where the prongs are inserted and the back of the tool is pushed down so that the prongs lift the center of the mark. All mark areas were tapped with a putter after repair.

The GreenFix® putter grip repair tool was used according to a “pushing” technique recommended in the manufacturer’s instructions. The Green Fix® Pro was used nine days after the ball marks were made. Dead turf in the ball mark was removed using the GreenFix® Pro’s coring device, then the GreenFix® prongs were inserted at a 45-degree angle along the perimeter of the hole and pushed until it was no longer visible.

The study concluded that compared to the traditional ball mark tool used properly, the putter-end GreenFix® repair resulted in a small diameter mark, higher surface quality over a longer period of time, better turf quality and fewer days to total recovery. Use of the GreenFix® Pro to repair 9-day-old ball marks reduced evidence of the mark diameter to a level comparable to the no ball mark control. GreeFix® Pro also provided ball mark recovery time equivalent to the putter-end GreenFix®, which was faster than all other repair options.

Gourlay was surprised by the results. “If we can get players to use the GreenFix® putter end tool to fix ball marks, we will see a substantial reduction in ball marks on greens.

That means we’ll have better playing conditions and more consistent greens—and that’s what’s everyone is after.”

Unfortunately, the traditional ball mark repair tool may actually be exacerbating the problem, since many golfers do not employ the proper technique.

The Kansas State study found that the 36

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

traditional ball mark repair tool used improperly (lifting the prongs up to the center of the mark) increases the size and longevity of the ball mark, and reduces surface and turf quality compared to the other all mark repair options.

By design, the GreenFix® putter grip tool allows the golfer to use a pushing motion to fix the ball mark, making it nearly impossible to lift or twist the turf roots. “Because the GreenFix® tool is on the putter, it is easier to use, creates less damage and encourages the proper method of fixing ball marks,” Gourlay relates. “It’s so innovative, it actually makes you want to fix ball marks.”

In a 1999 GCSAA survey of 1,000 golf course superintendents, failure to repair ball marks on the putting green was golfers’ worst breach of etiquette. Gourlay agrees. “Ball marks are obviously detrimental to the putting surface, so any tool that helps this problem will be welcomed,” he says. “With that said, I think GreenFix® has the potential to be the biggest thing since alternative spikes. If superintendents can get players to put GreenFix® grips on their putters, they will see a substantial reduction in ball marks on greens and overall better playing conditions,” he concludes.

“It’s the next step in the future of maintaining quality greens.” T

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TURF TALK

By Patrick O’Brien and Chris Hartwiger

The summer of 2003 has brought more than extreme amounts of rain to golf courses in the southeast. A new disease on bentgrass putting greens has been identified on at least 10-20 courses in the Carolinas.

Here’s What We Know Dr. Lane Tredway, plant pathologist at North Carolina State University, has been the leader on this issue. Outlined below are his comments:

“I am seeing an unusual disease of bentgrass in NC …. These symptoms started to show up about a month ago (early July) in certain places, but I have seen an explosion of new cases in the last few days, including several high profile courses. The problem is mostly on new greens (1-4 yrs old) and it has affected several cultivars (A-1, A-4, G-2, Crenshaw).

The disease appears in distinct patches ranging from two inches to two feet in diameter. The symptoms are very similar to take-all patch or summer patch. The patches initially show signs of wilt and stress then continue to decline and turn yellow or orange in color. In one case, no fungicides with algae activity were applied, so algae invaded the centers of the patches, resulting in a dark-colored patch with a yellow or orange periphery.

In plugs from affected areas, I see reddish brown necrosis of the crown, nodes, and to a lesser extent the roots. Lots of ectotrophic hyphae and simple hyphopodia are present on the surface of the necrotic tissue. There is no evidence of foliar blighting, and I have not observed Pythium oospores or sporangia on a consistent basis.

What has me puzzled is that the disease appears to move in water.

It usually appears first on higher, drier areas of a green and progresses downhill to lower areas, but still develops in distinct patches. Furthermore, when a patch develops on a slope, it is often oval in shape and elongated along the flow of surface water.

This appears to be the same disease we saw last year and we were 38

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

calling take-all patch. I isolated Magnaporthe poae and Gaeumannomyces cylindrosporous from samples last year and have completed Koch’s postulates for both species. However, the movement in water really makes me wonder.

“Summer Crown Rot” is the new disease affecting bentgrass putting greens in the Carolinas this summer for the first time ever.

From our trials, we have identified three treatments that are very effective for suppressing this disease, which I am tentatively calling “summer crown rot”: 1. Chipco Signature (4 oz) + Fore (8 oz) 2. Subdue (1 oz) 3. Cleary 3336 (8 oz) +

Heritage (0.4 oz) watered in with 1/8”

We have been applying these on 14 day intervals and are getting excellent control. The jury is still out on the efficacy of Terrazole. Fertility seems to be very important for recovery – 1/8 lb of N a few days after the fungicide induces very rapid recovery. Greens under lower fertility levels seem to have these symptoms more than sites with higher fertility levels.

For now, I am recommending that superintendents with this problem follow this program. We have a site where we can set- up research plots and determine which of these applications did the trick.

If you suspect an outbreak of this unusual disease, contact Dr. Tredway. We will continue to report any new information as it becomes available. T Source: Patrick O’Brien 770-229-8125 or patobrien@usga.org and Chris Hartwiger 205-444-5079 or chartwiger@usga.org

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your advertising audience.

For more information on advertising in the Tennessee Turfgrass Magazine, call the Ad Sales Department at (615) 790-3718!

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TURF TALK

By Colleen Tocci, Aquatrols

ANSWER:

FALSE!

By Colleen Tocci, Aquatrols

S

alt related problems in turf have been a factor for some time in many parts of the country.

They are, however, becoming more of an occurrence in geographic areas that may not have been affected in the past. While some “salts” are essential nutrients to plants, high levels of salts can become detrimental to plant growth. When evaporation is greater than rainfall or irrigation amounts, salt levels build up in the soil. Salts also build up in soils because of the use of poor drainage, a high water table or poor quality water. Poor water quality can result from natural salts in wells, use of effluent water or salt water intrusion.

Nationwide water conservation efforts have increased the need for golf courses to turn to non-potable water for irrigation—particularly wastewater (effluent, recycled or grey water). Increased use of effluent water sources has resulted in a greater potential for salt management problems—presenting a new challenge for many turf managers.

What Should I Look For? There are three types of salt affected soils. They are saline, sodic and saline-sodic soils. A saline soil has a high enough level of soluble salts 40

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

to affect plant growth. Typically you will see a white crusty appearance at the surface of the soil, a burned leaf or stunted growth of grass. These symptoms, however, are not always visible. In this soil type, the salts attract water, making less water available to the plant causing salt induced plant water stress(physiological drought). Shoot and plant tissue damage may occur as well as plant nutrient deficiencies.

Sodic soils are high in exchangeable sodium and appear hard and lumpy when they are dry. Water infiltration, especially in finer textured soils, is usually poor. In addition, pH levels are usually high in these soils and plant nutrition imbalances may occur. Poor soil penetration can result which inhibits water movement through the soil.

The third type of salt affected soil is saline-sodic. As noted by the name, these soils exhibit a high level of salt and exchangeable sodium. This is a frequent condition seen in turfgrass management. Soils of this type may physically appear satisfactory but plant growth may be inhibited. The problems manifest themselves in this soil type in the same way as saline soil—especially in the reduction of water available to the plant. Saline-Sodic soils suffer all the symptoms of both conditions above and are the hardest to manage. Due to poor water penetration caused by sodium, the ability to leach and manage the high soluble salts is severely reduced. Salt levels can build up rapidly in these soils even if water quality is not extreme.

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SOIL SALTS CONTINUED What Can I Do? As there are different types of salt affected soils, there are different ways to treat them. Saline soils require leaching of the excess salts. Historically, this has been achieved with additional irrigation to “flush the salts away.” By applying large volumes of water and allowing it to drain through the soil, you may be able to reduce the level of salts. As stated earlier, water conservation is a key element in turfgrass management today, reducing the desirability of this option. However, if this tactic is employed, the use of an effective soil penetrate will help the applied water to penetrate and leach the salts below the rootzone. In addition, fertilization programs may be modified to correct nutritional imbalances.

In both Sodic and Saline-Sodic soils, the sodium must be addressed aggressively. Sodium easily attaches itself to the soil particles, negatively affecting soil structure. This damage to soil structure reduces water penetration, percolation and drainage.

Soluble salts start to build in the rootzone and the turf becomes stressed.

The only way to displace the sodium and rebuild soil structure is to increase the calcium in the rootzone. When soluble

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calcium is available in the rootzone, the calcium can displace the sodium on the soil particle. The sodium, along with other salts, can then be leached away with a leaching program.

Typical calcium programs include gypsum applications if pHs are high, and lime applications if pHs are low (below 6).

Recently, injectable and sprayable grades of these products have been introduced into the market to help in the application of these products. While these products are “tried and true,” they are slow to solubilize calcium into the system. Consequently, the effect of the calcium on modifying the soil structure is slow. Using a product that improves the solubility of calcium can enhance its availability in the soil, maximizing the displacement of sodium that has built up. The calcium will help to rebuild the soil structure while the sodium and other displaced salts are leached away from the rootzone.

While high levels of salts in soils may not totally prevent you from growing turfgrass, you will need to modify your turfgrass management techniques. You must find techniques which will allow you to move water through the soil and release the “excess salts” from the rootzone. T

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

41

IN D E X O F ADVERTISERS American Turf Equipment 28 Aquatrols 29 Charles Williams & Associates 25 Cleary Chemical Corp 39 Course Doctors 32 Covermaster.

23 Double Springs Grass Farms 39 E & S Soil and Peat 41 Four Seasons Golf Company 25 Greenville Turf & Tractor 17 Harrell’s Fertilizer Inside Back Cover Jen-Hill Construction Materials 5, 15 Keeling Company 33 Landforms 13 Leading Edge Communications 26 McFall Sod Farm 41 Mid Tenn Turf, Inc. 33 Oldham Chemicals Co. 16 Pennington Seed, Inc. 30 Prosource One 22 Quail Valley Grasses 37 Regal Chemical Co. 3 Smith Turf & Irrigation Company Back Cover Southeastern Turf, LLC 13 Sprigger’s Choice, Inc. 36 Sur-Line Turf, Inc. 16 Swihart Sales Co. 30 Syngenta Turf & Ornamental Products 15 Tif Sport Inside Front Cover Turf Mountain Sod 32 Winstead Turf 7 Wood Bay Enterprises, Inc. 14, 23

TVSTMA 2003 EVENTS Date EVENT November 11

Annual Board Meeting and Golf Outing – Nashville

ETGCSA 2003 MEETINGS October 27 Scholarship & Research Tournament.

Location: Willow Creek GC, Knoxville. Host: Paul Hood.

MTGCSA 2003 MEETIN G S Date

Location

November 4

Scholarship & Research Tournament at Legends Club

MAGCSA 2003 MEETI N G S Date EVENT October 6 Scholarship & Research Tournament. Location: Chickasaw C.C.

Host Superintendent: Dan Stump.

November 11 Location: Shiloh Falls. Host Superintendent: Robert Davis.

ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION.

OTHER 2003 EVENTS Yamaha Pro-Super Tournament, October 20th, Hermitage Golf Course

EXPO 2003, October 18-20, Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY. Register at www.expo.mow.org.

42

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003

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Get a jump on the competition.

Call your Harrell’s rep or call toll-free at: 1-866-245-5559 Or visit our Web site: www.harrells.com

Harrell’s reps will go the distance for you.

That’s because – for Harrell’s – providing you with efficient, high performance service is a top priority. In addition, Harrell’s world-class, custom-blended fertilizers are formulated to give you optimum turf growth and health; state-of-the-art technology and quality ingredients guarantee it. Together we are all part of a fine-tuned team that assures you’ll get what you need, when you need it.

It’s a winning combination.

Time.Your Most Important Resource.

So many blades of grass, so little time. When you are responsible for a golf course, it seems there aren’t enough hours in the day to meet all the challenges you face. That’s why STI has developed a portfolio of equipment, service and support that is unmatched in the golf industry. As the exclusive distributor of TORO irrigation systems and TORO commercial turf care equipment since 1925, we provide total turf solutions that maximize efficiencies. Time after time.

Office 1.615.726.8811 • Orders 1.800.585.4784 www.smithturf.com