Tennessee Turfgrass - June / July 2006

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

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SPECIALIZED

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CONTRACT

SERVICES

& TURF

EQUIPMENT

SALES

NEW SERVICE: from Harmon Turf Services

SLIT DRAINAGE Move water off the playing surface. www.HarmonTurfServices.com

Core Collection & Removal

Fairway Aeration

Pro-Seed Inter-Seeding

Deep Tine Aeration

BLECavator Removation

Top Dress Spreading

We can do complete turnkey aeration on your greens and tees.

For more information, call us at: 1-800-888-2493.

Dethatcher/verti-cutting Vacuum

Shallow Aeration

Drill/Backfill Aeration

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

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S JUNE/JULY 2006

F E AT U R E D A RT I C L E S

14 16 24 32 38 40

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Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events — UT Field Days Topdressing Sports Fields with Compost Wildlife Control — Managing Canada Geese Applied Research — New Control Options for Virginia Buttonweed

16 Cover Story

Turf Talk — Choosing a Turfgrass for Putting Greens Turf Tips — Sports-Turf Mowing Rules

D E PA RT M E N T S

4

From the TTA President, Bill Francis

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A Message from TVSTMA, Al Ray

8

TTA Scholarship

10

News from the TTA

12

Calendar of Events

46

Index of Advertisers

46

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS

JUNE/JULY 2006

40

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

Turf Tips

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N EF WR OS MF RT OH ME PT RH E S TI DT AE N T BILL FRANCIS

reetings from East Tennessee! With the growing season now well underway, I thought it appropriate to take a moment to recognize the individuals and organizations that are so vital to our success as turfgrass professionals.

A recent family experience led me to reflect on customer service and how it relates to our profession. In the turfgrass industry, not only are we the providers of the service, but in many cases we are the customers as well, profoundly dependent on our suppliers’ goods and services to do our jobs. In my opinion, we are very fortunate in Tennessee to have many marvelous vendors who provide us with the best equipment and products available. I hear countless stories of vendors loaning equipment, delivering products after hours, giving free consultations, supplying crucial technical information and financially supporting the educational efforts of our many local and state associations. To me, it seems that without this commitment to service, we as professionals would have a very difficult time providing the quality turfgrass that our customers have come to expect.

In a day and time when personal experience has led me to believe that customer service is not the priority it once

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS

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was, it is refreshing to come to work in an industry where its vendors are truly dedicated to serving the customer.

This is never more evident than at the Tennessee Turfgrass Association’s Annual Conference and Tradeshow, where more than 50 vendors can be seen in one location. What's more, the next time you attend a meeting or seminar, take notice of the sponsor. Chances are, it will be one, two or even three of the many vendor members of the TTA. Any profession can seem thankless at times, ours notwithstanding. Therefore, the next time the opportunity presents itself, I challenge you to take a moment and express your appreciation to a deserving individual or organization. I am sure each of us would agree that a kind word or simple thank you often makes the work worthwhile!

In closing, and on behalf of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, I would like to congratulate TTA member David Stone, superintendent at The Honors Course, on his recent induction into the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame. This is a tremendous and well-deserved honor, as he joins quite a distinguished list of individuals who have contributed so much to the game of golf in the state of Tennessee.

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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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 Published by Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, Tennessee 37064 (615) 790-3718 Fax (615) 794-4524 Email:info@leadingedgecommunications.com Editor Mr. Bobby Stringer TTA OFFICERS President Mr. Bill Francis The Ridges Golf & CC (423) 913-2276 Vice President Mr. Bob Hogan The Hogan Company (888) 224-6426 Secretary/Treasurer Mr. Bobby Stringer Germantown Country Club (901) 754-7755 Past President Mr. Jeff Case (901) 373-4344 Executive Secretary Mr. Jim Uden (615) 591-8286 TTA 2005 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Cory Blair Mr. Bart Cash Ms. Monica Lalinde-Cooper Mr. Brad Erickson Ms. Shelia Finney Mr. Roger Frazier Mr. Mickey Lovett Mr. Bill Marbet Mr. Bob McCurdy Mr. Tommy Mittlesteadt Mr. Mitch Parker Mr. Frank Turner TTA ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Mr. Bill Blackburn Mr. Lynn Ray Dr. Tom Samples Dr. Dennis Shepard Dr. John Sorochan

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N EF WR OS MF RT OH ME TT VH SE T TMTAA

hanks to all who took time from their busy schedules to attend our West Tennessee Field Day on April 13 in Jackson. Special thanks to our hosts Ricky Yates and Kenny Franks of Jackson Parks and Recreation and Jason Pooler of Tri Turf Sod for providing lunch and a presentation on the progress of the new Jackson Sportsplex. Our speakers, Justin Spellman (West Tennessee Diamond Jaxx), Dr. Terry Vassey (Turf Agronomist, UT - Martin) and Johnny Ponce (Pioneer Paint) all shared their expertise in what were informative, interactive sessions from which we could all take something back with us. Thanks also to Southern Athletic Fields and Pioneer Paint for supplying door prizes.

There was much to be learned from Justin Spellman's insight into the composition and maintenance of skinned areas. He answered many questions from the attendees with authority, as evidenced when we visited Pringles Park, home of the Diamond Jaxx. Dr. Vassey's presentation on spring greenup and transition from ryegrass to bermudagrass, fertilization and cultural practices during these periods was excellent. Whether you overseed your bermudagrass or not, a wealth of information could be gained from his session. Fieldpainting tips from Johnny Ponce were, as always, entertaining and educational. They don't call him Johnny Paint for nothing.

We finished with a tour of the Jackson Sportsplex, an impressive 17-field baseball and softball complex scheduled to open in late August 2006. It is a testament to any community that would commit to such an ambitious project, realizing the positive impact it will have.

Thanks again to our hosts, and we wish them the best of luck with what promises to be one of the premier complexes in the Southeast. Visit www.jacksonsportsplex.com to see for yourself and keep up with their progress. Once again thanks to all for the opportunity to be together, sharing our knowledge and friendship.

T

Al Ray

TVSTMA President 8

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS

JUNE/JULY 2006

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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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 Š2006 by the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. Tennessee Turfgrass is published bi-monthly. 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, 206 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 7903718, Fax (615) 794-4524.

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ERNEST APPLICATION SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION NERNEST E W S HARDISON F R O M MEMORIAL T H E T TSCHOLARSHIP A PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT NEATLY SECTION I: PERSONAL INFORMATION

NAME: HOME MAILING ADDRESS:

CAMPUS MAILING ADDRESS:

PHONE: (HOME)

PHONE: (CAMPUS)

SECTION II: EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION

INSTITUTION NAME: GRADUATION DATE: OVERALL GPA: ADVISOR: ADVISOR ADDRESS:

MAJOR: MAJOR GPA: PHONE:

SIGNATURE OF ADVISOR: (NOTE: HANDWRITTEN SIGNATURE OF ADVISOR MUST APPEAR ON THIS FORM)

ADVISOR’S COMMENTS:

SECTION III: BACKGROUND INFORMATION

NAME(S) AND RELATIONSHIP(S) OF ANY RELATIVES ASSOCIATED WITH THE GOLF OR TURFGRASS INDUSTRY: NAME(S) AND RELATIONSHIP(S) OF ANY RELATIVES WHO ARE MEMBERS OF THE TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION: HAVE YOU PREVIOUSLY RECEIVED A TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP? IF YES, PLEASE LIST YEAR AND AMOUNT: WHAT ASPECT OR CAREER OPPORTUNITY WITHIN THE TURFGRASS INDUSTRY MOST INTERESTS YOU? SECTION IV: ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

PLEASE INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING WITH YOUR APPLICATION: 1 A COPY OF YOUR RESUME 2 A LIST OF REFERENCES (MINIMUM OF 3) 3 AN ESSAY (300 WORDS OR LESS) DESCRIBING: • YOUR REASONS FOR REQUESTING THIS SCHOLARSHIP • YOUR REQUIREMENT FOR AND SOURCES OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR COLLEGE AND RELATED EXPENSES

APPLICATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN NOVEMBER 1, 2006.

AWARDS WILL BE PRESENTED AT THE ANNUAL TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE IN JANUARY 2007.

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATIONS TO: TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION 400 FRANKLIN ROAD FRANKLIN, TN 37069

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Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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T TA S C H O L A R S H I P A History of the Ernest Hardison Memorial Scholarship

By Frank Turner, Chairman, TTA Scholarship Committee he Tennessee Turfgrass Association awarded its first scholarship in 1981 to Elizabeth Graham, a student at the University of Tennessee. Since that time, the TTA has annually presented its scholarship to a deserving student interested in a career in turfgrass management.

Dr. Lloyd Callahan, former professor of turfgrass management at the University of Tennessee, was the primary force in the organization and establishment of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. He served as an advisory member to the TTA’s board of directors from its establishment in 1967, to his retirement from UT, a span of nearly forty years.

When Dr. Callahan began to organize the TTA, he needed help reaching people in Middle Tennessee. He contacted Mr. Ernest Hardison of Ernest Hardison Seed Company in Nashville. Mr. Hardison, who was a well-known and respected businessman in the area, agreed to help. According to Dr. Callahan, Mr. Hardison was “our strongest supporter.”

T

“Ernest Hardison was very unselfish and did a lot of work behind the scenes,” said Dr. Callahan. Mr. Hardison helped draw up the bylaws for the TTA and served as its first vice president in 1967, and then as president in 1968. David Stone, a long time TTA member, recalls that Mr. Hardison also served as chairman of the Entertainment Committee for many years and strongly believed that the annual business dinner should be “livened up” with some type of entertainment. In 1975, Mr. Hardison was presented TTA’s first “Lifetime Membership.”

In addition to his involvement with the TTA, Mr. Hardison was also active in his community. While attending Vanderbilt University, he was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa academic honor society.

In 1944, he won the Iroquois Steeplechase in Nashville, and he served as Scoutmaster for forty years at Tennessee Preparatory School.

In 1986, Mr. Hardison passed away, and shortly thereafter Dr. Callahan recommended and the board approved that our scholarship be named for Mr. Ernest Hardison.

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

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N ENWE W S SF RFORMO MT HTEH ET TTAT A DAVID STONE Inducted into Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame member David Stone, superintendent at The Honors Course in Chattanooga, was inducted into the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame on April 11, 2006, taking his place alongside such great Tennessee players as Cary Middlecoff and Lew Oehmig, and club professionals such as Harold Eller and Don Malarkey, and Jack Lupton, The Honors Course chairman and Tennessee golf benefactor.

“David Stone is the Cary Middlecoff of superintendents,” said Dick Horton, executive director of the Tennessee Golf Association. “Cary was the greatest player Tennessee has ever produced, and David is the greatest superintendent.”

A graduate of the University of Tennessee’s turfgrass management program, Stone joined The Honors Course in 1983. Stone’s reputation has grown exponentially, right along with the course he has maintained and readied for such prestigious tournaments as the 1991 United States Amateur, the 1994 Curtis Cup, the 1996 NCAA Men’s Championships and the 2005 U.S. Mid-Amateur.

Since its inception, the Honors has turned up on various rankings of the world’s top golf courses.

Stone, who won the USGA’s Green Section Award for lifetime achievement in 1995, is a big reason for that.

TTA

The article above is excerpted from a tribute written by Chris Dortch.

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS

BUDDY LUV Named Dog of the Year

by Lebanon Turf

Great Dane owned by Jerry Craven Buddy Luv, a(TTAharlequin member and superintendent at the Vanderbilt Legends Club in Franklin, TN), was recently selected as dog of the year by Lebanon Turf, a national distributor of turf materials for golf courses. Buddy Luv and 11 other contestants were featured in Lebanon Turf’s 2006 calendar, Superintendent’s Best Friend (Buddy Luv was Mr. October). Buddy Luv goes to work with Craven almost every day and is assigned to chase geese off the course. With his award as dog of the year, he received $500 for himself and a $2,000 donation to the Middle Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association.

JUNE/JULY 2006

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Blitzes, bombs and relentless ground attacks — You need turf that will never surrender.

Defend sports fields against wear, heat and other enemies No matter what game is being played, keeping sports turf healthy can be a year-round contest. That’s what makes varieties in the Heat Tolerant Bluegrass Series such valuable players. They bounce back from attack through aggressive rhizomatous activity.

They take the heat and humidity of the Transition Zone and remain actively growing and green longer than bermuda. Plus, they have the stamina to withstand Wisconsin’s

cold winters. Though each has its own unique characteristics, Thermal Blue, Solar Green, Thermal Blue Blaze and Dura Blue also show excellent disease resistance.

For sports fields as stunning as they are rugged, insist on the Scotts® Heat Tolerant Bluegrass Series in your blends or mixtures. www.scottsproseed.com

For more information, contact Landmark Seed at 1-800-268-2379, The Scotts Company at 608-215-3918, or visit www.scottsproseed.com.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

August 10, 2006

August 31, 2006

Knoxville, TN UT Turfgrass Management Field Day East TN Research and Education Center

Jackson, TN UT Turfgrass Management Field Day West TN Research and Education Center

For more information and to register, go to http://turfweeds.utk.edu

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Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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COVER STORY TOPDRESSING

BERMUDAGRASS

SPORTS FIELDS WITH COMPOST

By Tom Samples, Ph.D., and John Sorochan, Ph.D., Plant Sciences Department, The University of Tennessee, and Billy Clark, Clarkland Sports Turfs

ompost, a mix of decomposed organic matter or residues, may be valuable for topdressing bermudagrass growing in compacted, heavy clay soils. Mixing compost with soils does more than provide nutrients that are essential for turfgrass growth.

For instance, compost serves as a conditioner, often improving soil structure. When mixed with a heavy clay soil, particles of compost usually bind with smaller clay particles, increasing the soil’s porosity. Water can move much more quickly into a loose, porous soil than a soil that is hard and heavily compacted. Adding compost to sandy soils may also improve the turfgrass-root environment. The ability of a sandy soil to hold water and nutrients may be improved by adding mature compost.

Warm, moist, nutrient-rich soils amended with compost are usually very “biologically” active. Compost’s organic matter supplies energy for beneficial soil microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and protozoa. Larger organisms, such as earthworms and millipedes, can break down or digest soil organic matter, releasing nutrients to turfgrasses as they move through the soil.

C

Compost basics Mature compost is often dark brown and crumbly, sifting easily between the fingers. It has an earthy smell (not sour), and it is not hot. The nutrient content and quality of compost partially depend on the richness, source and carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) balance of the organic materials used to produce the “finished” product.

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Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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CONTINUED

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

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COVER STORY Compost may be produced at your local municipal solid-waste collection site (Table 2).

Quality compost is becoming more available. In early 1992, there were more than 2,000 yard-waste composting operations in the United States (Christopher and Asher, 1994). The supervision and regulation of compost made from municipal solid waste is the responsibility of each state. For example, in Tennessee, the materials being composted for use in the landscape must be turned five times and maintained at a temperature of 131° F for 15 days before being turned. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established standards governing the amounts of pathogens and heavy metals (e.g., cadmium, lead, mercury and zinc) that a compost may contain. Appropriate uses of a particular compost are designated by the EPA according to the concentration of heavy metals, the pathogen content and other properties (Table 3).

Using compost When using compost as a soil amendment, turfgrass professionals often broadcast 3 cubic yards of compost per 1,000 square feet and till to a soil depth of 4 inches or more.

Topdressing 1/4-inch of mature compost after core aerification may help build the population of beneficial microorganisms and improve the overall quality and performance of bermudagrass sports fields. The goal is to increase the amount of organic matter within the turfgrass root zone. Forty-four cubic yards, or about 22 tons of compost, are required to form a 1/4-inch layer over a 1-1/3-acre bermudagrass football field.

Organic layer in plot receiving no compost.

Composting is a series of chemical reactions that produce energy (heat). Many active composting organisms, often referred to as aerobic decomposers, require oxygen, nutrients, water and an appropriate temperature and pH to be effective.

Cold-loving decomposers, or psychrophiles, are very active at 55° F. Thermophyllic (heat-loving) microorganisms decompose organic matter at temperatures from 112° F to 150° F. Decomposers that are active at temperatures from 70° F to 90° F are referred to as mesophyles. Most bacteria thrive at a pH of 6.0 to 7.5, while fungal decomposers tolerate a pH range from 5.5 to 8.0.

The amounts of C and N in organic materials influence their rate of decomposition. Organic matter with a 30:1 C:N ratio is considered ideal for composting. Large populations of decomposers often rapidly consume high N materials (with C:N ratios much less than 30:1), while the rate of decay slows when the C:N ratio of organic matter is much greater than 30:1.

When preparing to compost, high-carbon materials including leaves, bark and wood chips are often mixed with low-carbon materials such as turfgrass clippings and food wastes (Table 1).

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Table 1. The approximate carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of several organic materials.

Material

Approximate carbon:nitrogen ratio

Low Carbon Coffee grounds

18:1

Cow manure

20:1 (~0.5% nitrogen)

Egg shells

35:1

Fruit wastes

35:1

Hay

15:1 to 32:1

Horse manure

25:1 (~0.6% nitrogen)

Horse manure with bedding

30:1 to 60:1

Poultry manure

10:1 (~1.5% nitrogen)

Sewage sludge, digested

16:1

Turfgrass clippings

12:1 to 25:1

Vegetable wastes

12:1 to 20:1

High Carbon Bark

100:1 to 130:1

Paper

170:1

Pine needles

100:1

Sawdust

500:1

Tree leaves

90:1

Wood chips

700:1

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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CONTINUED Table 2. Nature’s Best Soil Conditioner (Natural Resources Recovery, Knoxville, TN).a Product and nutrient information

E&S 1-800-942-0448 Rocky Mount, North Carolina

pH

7.9

Total organic (%)

56%

Total nitrogen (ppm)

4680 ppm

Phosphorus (ppm)

1340 ppm

Potassium (ppm)

1680 ppm

Calcium (ppm)

6400 ppm

Magnesium (ppm)

2030 ppm

Copper (ppm)

9.7 ppm

Manganese (ppm)

335 ppm

Zinc (ppm)

52.5 ppm

a Source: Nature’s Best – A Guide for Landscape and Nursery Professionals, Natural Resources Recovery, 8707 Joe Daniels Road, Knoxville, TN 37931, www.naturalresourcesrecovery.com.

Topdressing project in Dickson, TN The University of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Blair Griffin Landscaping, Clarkland Sports Turfs and Dickson High School recently began a cooperative effort to demonstrate the value of core aerifying and topdressing newly established bermudagrass sports fields with compost.

A 1/4-inch layer of compost was uniformly broadcast over a ‘Tifway’ bermudagrass football practice field that was high in clay. Both a conventional, compact topdresser (Earth & Turf Company, New Holland, PA) and a pneumatic spreader (Rexius Express Blowers, Eugene, OR) were used to apply a mature, dairy-waste compost.

One demonstration plot was aerified before the compost was applied; a second plot was not. A third plot received no aerification or compost.

After the compost was applied, a tractor-drawn drag-mat was used to mix aeration cores and organic matter. Organic layer in plot receiving compost topdressing.

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

Verti-Drain Sales

Drill & Fill Aerification

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COVER STORY Table 3. Product parameters for compost used to establish turfs (Anon., 2001) Parameters a

Reported as (units of measure)

General range

phb

pH units

6.0 to 8.5

Soluble-salt concentrationb (electrical conductivity)

dS/m (mmhos/cm)

≤ 10

Moisture content

%, net weight basis

30 to 60

Organic-matter content

%, dry weight basis

30 to 65

Particle size

% passing a select mesh size

98 passing through 3/4" screen or smaller

Stabilityc (carbon dioxide evolution rate)

mg CO2 C / gram organic matter/day

< gram

Maturityc (Bioassay — seedling emergence and vigor)

% relative to positive control

min. 80

Chemical contaminantsd

mg/kg (ppm)

meet or exceed US EPA Class A standard, 40 CFR § 503.13, Tables 1 and 3 levels

Biological contaminantse; select pathogens — fecal coliform bacteria salmonella

mg/kg (ppm)

meet or exceed US EPA Class A standard, 40 CFR § 503.13, Tables 1 and 3 levels

a Recommended test methodologies are provided in Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost, TMECC, the U.S. Composting Council. b It should be noted that the pH and soluble-salt content of the amended soil mix is more relevant to the establishment and growth of a particular turf than is the pH or soluble-salt content of a specific compost. Each turfgrass species requires a specific pH range and has a salinity-tolerance rating. Most turfgrass species are tolerant of a soil-salinity level of 3 dS/m (see Table 4). Seeds, developing seedlings and salt-sensitive species often perform best at a soil salinity of about 1/2 this level. c Never base compost quality on a single stability/maturity test. d U.S. EPA Class A standard, 40 CFR § 503.13, Tables 1 and 3 levels: arsenic, 41 ppm; cadmium, 39 ppm; copper, 1500 ppm; lead, 300 ppm; mercury, 17 ppm; molybdenum, 75 ppm; nickel, 420 ppm; selenium, 100 ppm; and zinc, 2800 ppm. e U.S. EPA Class A standard, 40 CFR § 503.32(a) levels: fecal coliform < 1000 MPN/gram of total solids or salmonella < 3 MPN/4 grams of total solids.

Table 4. Relative tolerance of several turfgrass species to soil salinity (Harivandi, et al., 1992).

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Sensitive less than 3 dS/m

Moderately sensitive 3 to 6 dS/m

Moderately tolerant 6 to 10 dS/m

Tolerant more than 10 dS/m

Annual bluegrass Colonial bentgrass Kentucky bluegrass Rough bluegrass Centipedegrass

Annual ryegrass Creeping bentgrass Fine fescues Bahiagrass

Perennial ryegrass Tall fescue Buffalograss Zoysia

Alkaligrass Bermudagrass Seashore paspalum St. Augustinegrass

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS

JUNE/JULY 2006

Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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Topdressing compost with a Rexius Express Blower truck.

Topdressing compost with a compact topdressing machine.

To date, the turf that received compost appears to have benefited in several ways.

The surface is uniform and smooth. Plants growing in soils topdressed with compost following aerification are healthy and very well rooted. There appears to be much more organic matter near the soil surface, and the bermudagrass is more resilient.

Sports-field managers and coaches are encouraged to contact Tom Samples (e-mail tjsamples@utk.edu) and Billy Clark (clarkland@bellsouth.net) for more information.

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COVER STORY Table 5. A general comparison of compost to other agricultural and horticultural products.a Compost

Canadian Peat

Native Peat

Topsoil

Ground Pine Bark

Bulk density

medium

low

low

high

low

Macronutrients

medium to high

very low

very low

low to medium

low

Micronutrients

medium to high

very low

very low

medium

low

Microbal population

good to excellent

poor

poor

poor to good

good to excellent

Moisture holding capacity

medium

very high

high

low to medium

low

Organic matter content

medium to high

very high

high

low

medium to high

pH

medium

low to very low

low to very low

medium

low

Soluble salts

low to medium

very low

very low

low

low

a From: Landscape Architect Specifications for Compost Utilization. 2003. E & A Environmental Consultants, Inc., with technical input provided by R. Alexander Associates, Inc., CWC/PNWER and The US Composting Council.

References Anon. 1991. Field Guide to Compost Use. The US Composting Council. http://compostingcouncil.org.

Christopher, T. and M. Asher. 1994.

Compost This Book. Sierra Club Books, San Francisco, CA, 248 pp.

Harivandi, M. A., J. D. Butler and L. Wu. 1992. Salinity and Turfgrass Culture. In Turfgrass, Series No. 32, American Society of Agronomy, Madison, WI.

Use a mat to mix aeration cores with compost.

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Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

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WILDLIFE CONTROL

By Peter T. Hertl, Ph.D., Turfgrass Entomology Program, North Carolina State University

Photos courtesy of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.

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CONTINUED

honking of Canada geese — flying gracefully overhead in classic V-formation — once signaled the arrival of fall. In most places, the birds continued south on their annual migration. Over the last two decades, however, the situation has changed substantially. Canada geese have now become a common sight on many lakes and ponds. The flight of the geese has now become an all-too-familiar spectacle as they make their daily “migration” to and from the local watering hole.

When passing through, a flock of Canada geese is a beautiful sight.

When large flocks take up residence, however, the effect may present management headaches for the turfgrass professional. Understanding the birds, the law and the control methods available will go a long way toward addressing this challenge.

The

The problems The main landscape issue with geese is their copious production of feces — one to three pounds of daily droppings per bird. Fresh droppings can make areas unpleasant to play, picnic or golf. Fecal contamination creates potential health risks from bacteria and other disease organisms. Unfortunately, geese and other animals are now known to carry antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

Geese also regularly feed on grass and other plantings. Although this is a secondary problem, it may be a concern at highly maintained sites like golf courses.

The facts Canada geese are classified by wildlife agencies as migratory waterfowl. Once in danger of being wiped out by hunting, the birds were put under the protection of state and federal law. The migratory flocks — those that just stop by and then move on — are still valued as a game species by hunters and are generally not a problem in landscape management.

Unfortunately, not all Canada geese populations are the same.

For several reasons, many flocks stop and stay, taking up permanent residence. Behaviorally different from their migrating brethren, TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

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WILDLIFE CONTROL

these resident birds are the ones that cause problems. Only careful measurement or genetic testing can separate migratory and resident birds; therefore, they are all considered as wild migratory birds under the law.

Although desirable enhancements in the landscape, ponds and lakes also attract resident geese, which are now so abundant that they have become problems even at areas without water. It is not uncommon for the flock to fly into nearby residential and commercial sites to feed on grass and other foliage.

The bad news Studies show that resident geese nest at a younger age, produce larger clutch sizes, have higher nesting success and re-nest more frequently than their migrating relatives. Therefore, resident geese generally have higher reproductive success.

Additionally, they are generally not subjected to the physical stress and dangers of migration, hunting and predation. A greater reproductive rate combined with lower mortality has resulted in rapidly growing resident populations.

Solving goose problems can be difficult, costly and timeconsuming. Although cleaning up their mess can be a

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS

The law Canada geese are an especially difficult species to deal with because they are legally protected. Lethal remedies are strictly controlled and should be considered only as a last resort. Geese may be hunted during the regular season, but this may not be legal due to local firearm ordinances, or it may be impractical due to public perception or safety. Removal at other times or with other methods requires a federal depredation permit.

These permits are not issued until all non-lethal remedies have been attempted.

Control measures

Management considerations

26

management nightmare, dealing with the geese themselves is even more complicated. Like deer, geese are hated by some, loved by others and protected under wildlife law. Control measures that harm the geese can cause public-image issues with local residents or clientele and may have legal consequences. Therefore, make sure you are aware of all the laws that apply to the situation.

JUNE/JULY 2006

Goose-control categories include scare devices, dogs, exclusion devices, repellents and lethal removal by shooting, trapping or egg addling. Which method is appropriate for your site depends

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CONTINUED on many factors, including the number of geese, the type of site and the resources and time available. Additional factors to consider include the proximity and perceptions of local residents and clients. The methods you select should always address your long-term management goals rather than just being a quick fix.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feed the geese!

The biggest problem at public sites is people feeding the geese. Where geese are provided with open water and generous handouts, their numbers will increase rapidly. Feeding also tends to make the geese come ashore more often, leading to the rapid accumulation of feces on the turf. Therefore, the first step in managing problems with Canada geese is to stop the feeding.

Educating visitors and residents is an important part of the process. Posting signs encouraging people not to feed the geese may help, but initially a stronger presence may be required to break the public of this habit.

Assigning a few savvy employees to keep watch and diplomatically explain the problem to the public may save you from assigning your crew to permanent latrine duty.

At some sites, stopping the feeding may not be possible or practical. Designating a feeding area where goose activity and feces do not pose a problem may be an alternative management strategy requiring little effort and resources.

Scare devices Scare devices (propane cannons, horns, predator calls, Mylar streamers or balloons, etc.) generally offer only temporary control because the geese get use to these tactics in a short period of time. Also, noise-producing scare devices may be inappropriate for the site and may result in complaints from local residents. However, some scare devices â&#x20AC;&#x201D; such as streamers and other devices that move in the wind â&#x20AC;&#x201D; may be helpful when used with other methods.

Essentially another type of scare device, dogs can be very effective. Trained Border collies are an excellent means for keeping the geese in the water and deterring them from using the site. However, they are expensive

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WILDLIFE CONTROL and require special care, and there may be some potential additional liability in the case of a negative dog-human interaction. An alternative strategy may be using a commercial Border collie service (available in some areas).

Exclusion Keeping the geese in the water solves many management problems, and hindering their movement between water and shore may deter them from using the site altogether. Exclusion devices include bulkheads and fences around ponds and lakes to keep the flock off the shore. Also, a grid system of wires strung over the water can help keep geese from landing.

Although expensive to install, bulkheads may be a viable consideration, especially during pond construction or renovation.

Bulkheads offer many other benefits, such as controlling erosion and maintaining the water depth for irrigation and weed control.

Temporary fencing can be a great solution for an existing problem. Some new designs of fencing are inexpensive, easy to install and virtually invisible, plus they are viewed as a wildlifefriendly approach. Natural aquatic vegetation (such as cattails) also serves to limit access to the shore.

Repellents Repellents have been developed to address goose problems in pastures and suburban landscapes. Feeding repellents (Migrate™, Goose Chase™, No Goose Zone™, Flight Control Plus™) rely on the bitter taste of grape-seed extracts or other substances to deter feeding. Although repellents alone will probably not solve a goose problem, they may be used in conjunction with other deterrents such as scare and exclusion devices. These products are not cheap and must be reapplied after rain or mowing.

Lethal methods In cases where non-lethal methods have not been effective, lethal methods may be necessary. Lethal removal outside of the hunting season is allowed by law, but only after obtaining a depredation permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). However, USFWS will consider issuing a permit only when lethal removal is first recommended by another federal agency, USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services (WS Form 37). Even with this recommendation, issuance of the permit is not guaranteed, and the application must be accompanied by an application fee ($100 for commercial sites, $50 for homeowners).

Trapping the birds is another option, but that too requires a permit. Additionally, the captured birds must be euthanized, and this procedure may be performed only by a certified Wildlife Damage Control Agent to ensure it is carried out in a humane fashion.

Although permitted removal by trapping or shooting is a legal option, it can be met with scorn by local residents, and it will likely prove to be only a short-term solution. Removal may reduce the current population, but more birds may fly in and repopulate the site. Fortunately, there is a better method of long-term control.

Egg addling One of the best methods for keeping resident goose numbers down is “egg addling.” This is the practice of keeping the eggs from hatching either by using a wire to pierce the egg and scramble the contents or by covering the eggs with vegetable oil to prevent them from hatching. The eggs are then put back into the nest (if you remove the eggs, the geese will simply lay more). Egg addling won’t reduce the numbers of adult geese already at the site, but it does help keep the flock from getting larger.

Egg addling is considered a lethal method and requires a federal permit. Starting in 2006, however, the process has been 28

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CONTINUED streamlined. Permits applications are available on-line from USFWS and do not require prior recommendation from USDAAPHIS Wildlife Services.

When considering removal of wildlife for management purposes, always remember one fact. If geese (or other wildlife) find the site attractive, more will come to replace the ones removed. Also keep in mind that lethal measures are best carried out by trained wildlife professionals.

Conclusion As with most wildlife problems, â&#x20AC;&#x153;an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.â&#x20AC;? This is certainly true with Canada goose problems.

Stopping public feeding of the geese and limiting their movement between water and land will give substantial relief at many sites.

However, an integrated approach with multiple methods may be required. Additional efforts with the timely use of selected scare devices and repellents may help to avoid more extreme lethal measures and must be attempted before depredation permits for egg addling or removal will be issued. Contact your local County Cooperative Extension agent, the NWRC, USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services or the USFWS for further information or assistance.

Useful references and contact information United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services), NC 919786-4480, www.aphis.usda/gov.ws/ United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), 800-344-WILD, www.fws.gov; Permit Section, 404-679-7070

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APPLIED RESEARCH

By Greg Breeden, Weed Science Research and Extension Associate, and Scott McElroy, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Turfgrass Weed Scientist, University of Tennessee

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS

NEW CONTROL OPTIONS

for Virginia Buttonweed JUNE/JULY 2006

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O

ne of the most difficult-tocontrol broadleaf weeds in turfgrass, Virginia buttonweed (Diodia virginiana) proliferates in moist to wet areas and can tolerate mowing heights as low as half an inch.

It is a deep-rooted perennial broadleaf weed that produces both above-ground and belowground flowering structures. Its prolific seed production, extensive root system and ability to vegetatively reproduce increases the difficulty in controlling this species. Due to these biological factors, multiple herbicide applications are usually required for complete control.

Identifying Virginia buttonweed Virginia buttonweed is a spreading perennial.

Its opposite leaves will often have a mottled yellow appearance, caused by a virus that infects Diodia species. Stems are often occasionally hairy, and deep taproots often start at the nodes. Above-ground flowers are white in a star shape with four petals. The fruit is often green and elliptical in shape with hairy ridges. The buoyant seeds can move easily with soil surface water to other areas.

Virginia buttonweed can form very dense mats as it spreads and often takes over areas.

Its ability to reproduce from seeds, roots and stem fragments makes this weed particularly troublesome.

Fluroxypyr, a new broadleaf weed-control option A new systemic broadleaf herbicide labeled for most turf situations, fluroxypyr is rapidly

absorbed by the foliage of growing plants.

Fluroxypyr acts in a similar manner to triclopyr and clopyralid (the active ingredients in Confront), causing uncontrolled cell elongation and twisting of leaves and stems (much like the effects of other auxin-type herbicides). The only active ingredient contained in Spotlight, fluroxypyr is also contained in the herbicide Escalade, along with 2,4-D and dicamba.

Trade Name: Spotlight Chemical Name: fluroxypyr Use Areas: golf course (except tees and greens), athletic fields, sod farms, residential and non-residential areas Turf Safety: all major turfgrass species Use Rates: 0.67 to 2.5 pints/acre Trade Name: Escalade (and other formulations) Chemical Name: 2,4-D, fluroxypyr, and dicamba Use Areas: golf course (except tees and greens), athletic fields, sod farms, residential and non-residential areas Turf Safety: all major turfgrass species Use Rates: 0.67 to 3.0 pints/acre

Herbicide

Active Ingredient

Product Rate/Acre

Active Ingredient Rate/Acre

Tolerant Turf Species

Confront

triclopyr + clopyralid

1-2 pt.

0.37-0.75 lb.

Most Turf Species Tolerant

Corsair

chlorsulfuron

1-5.33 oz.

0.75-4.0 oz.

Do not apply to tall fescue or ryegrass

Escalade

fluroxypyr + 2,4-D + dicamba

0.67-3.0 pt.

0.37-1.65 lb.

Most Turf Species Tolerant

Monument

trifloxysulfuron

0.33-0.56 oz.

0.25-0.42 oz.

Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass

Spotlight

fluroxypyr

0.67-2.5 pt.

0.13-0.47 lb.

Most Turf Species Tolerant

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION â&#x20AC;˘ TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

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APPLIED RESEARCH Our research

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Research conducted at the University of Tennessee has evaluated the use of phenoxylike herbicides for Virginia buttonweed control. Spotlight (fluroxypyr) is a new broadleaf herbicide that can be included in the phenoxy herbicides. In research conducted at the University of Tennessee, Spotlight and products containing fluroxypyr are effective control options for Virginia buttonweed.

Another important component to controlling Virginia buttonweed with phenoxy herbicides is the inclusion of clopyralid in the mixture.

Clopyralid is found in such herbicides as Confront (triclopyr and clopyralid) and others.

In our research, repeat applications of herbicides that contain fluroxypyr and clopyralid controlled Virginia buttonweed greater than 80% (Figure 1). However, clopyralid-containing products are no longer labeled for use in the residential market, whereas fluroxypyr is labeled for this use area.

Other research evaluated the use of sulfonylurea herbicides for Virginia buttonweed control. Corsair (chlorsulfuron), Monument (trifloxysulfuron) and Revolver (foramsulfuron) were evaluated with both single and sequential applications, with the second application coming four weeks later. Single applications of Corsair controlled Virginia buttonweed greater than single applications of Monument or Revolver. Repeat applications of Corsair and Monument controlled Virginia buttonweed 90% or greater (Figure 2), indicating that these herbicides have excellent potential for Virginia buttonweed control.

Option #1 — Phenoxy and phenoxy-like herbicides Multiple applications of Spotlight 2 pt./acre, Escalade 1.25 pt./acre and Confront at 1 or 2 pt./acre are your best options for control of Virginia buttonweed with phenoxy or phenoxy-like herbicides. Most phenoxy herbicides are safe on both cool- and warmseason grasses. However, Confront is slightly phytotoxic to bermudagrass under certain conditions at the higher rate of 2 pt./acre, so use the lower rate. These herbicides will control only broadleaf weeds, so if you desire a broader spectrum of control, the sulfonylurea herbicides are a better option.

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CONTINUED Option #2 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sulfonylurea herbicides Corsair at 3 oz./acre and Monument at 0.56 oz./acre applied twice, four weeks apart, are the best programs that utilize sulfonylurea herbicides. Single applications of these two herbicides seem to be hit or miss, and more often than not, they are a miss. Better results have been observed when applications begin in May, before Virginia buttonweed begins to flower. Add a non-ionic surfactant to the tank-mixture at 0.25% v/v for each herbicide. Each herbicide will control a broad range of broadleaf weeds and cool-season grasses, but Corsair will not control sedges.

Use both of these herbicides in zoysiagrass or bermudagrass turf. Table 1 has additional information about herbicide choices.

Final thoughts To achieve control of Virginia buttonweed, persistence is the key. Like any hard-tocontrol perennial weed, regrowth is likely to occur over time, even under the best control program. However, with persistent monitoring and timely applications, control of Virginia buttonweed can be achieved.

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T U R F TA L K

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall …

Superintendent: Mirror, mirror on the wall, which is the best turfgrass of them all for my putting greens?

Mirror: Why, there are two excellent turfgrasses for you to consider: creeping bentgrass and ultradwarf bermudagrass.

Superintendent: Mirror, are you saying creeping bentgrass is no longer the king in the Southeast region? Tell me more!

CHOOSING A PUTTING GREEN TURFGRASS

Mirror: Well, once upon a time, a revolution swept through the Southeast.

Courses began changing from creeping bentgrass to ultradwarf bermudagrass at an increasing frequency. Courses with budgets, big and small, made the change. For the first time, grass selection was not a function of budget, status or climate. Our friendly USGA Green Section agronomists will tell the rest of the story.

By Chris Hartwiger, USGA Green Section

Why golf courses are changing A number of factors are driving courses to change from creeping bentgrass to ultradwarf bermudagrass, including: • A high level of putting quality throughout the entire year.

• No need to overseed (painting is a superior option).

• The management focus is shifted to playability, as opposed to life support.

• The entire golf course peaks at the same time.

• Fewer pesticide inputs are required, compared to bentgrass.

Entire articles could (and should) be written about the bullet points listed above, but several comments are warranted now. First, ultradwarf bermudagrass has been maintained on golf courses at a level of playing quality comparable to creeping bentgrass, and it is easier to keep alive. Next, golf courses with an ultradwarf bermudagrass can peak all parts of their golf course at the same time. This is much different from the bentgrass model where greens peak in the spring, are disrupted by aeration and then shift to the

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CONTINUED Table 1: Temperature averages for selected Southern cities. Temperatures are in degrees Fahrenheit.

City Memphis, TN Nashville, TN Birmingham, AL Columbia, SC Macon, GA Charlotte, NC Raleigh, NC

January Average High 49 46 53 58 57 52 49

January Average Low 31 28 32 36 34 32 30

life-support mode in the summer. Also, aeration on ultradwarf bermudagrass is performed in the heat of the summer, which is typically less busy than spring months.

A suitable climate for ultradwarf bermudagrass In the USGA Green Section Southeast Region, every state (Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina) has golf courses with successful ultradwarfbermudagrass putting greens. Although Memphis is the farthest north location in the region, it has a significant population of ultradwarfbermudagrass putting greens. Table 1 compares January and July average temperatures for selected cities in the Southeast region. More information is available at www.weather.com.

Although these temperature averages provide only a snapshot of the weather in these cities, it is accepted that all these cities have suitable climates for bermudagrass on fairways, tees and roughs. However, ultradwarf-bermudagrass putting greens have been a question in a few of them. Based upon the success of ultradwarfbermudagrass putting greens in Memphis, it is likely that ultradwarf-bermudagrass varieties could perform well on golf courses in all cities listed in Table 1.

Of course, the obvious caveats for this statement are in order. Past performance is not indicative of future performance, and appropriate systems need to be in place to protect against winter injury, should conditions warrant.

Conclusion The reflection in the mirror does not have to be a murky one. Today, golf courses can have a bright and beautiful future with either creeping bentgrass or ultradwarf bermudagrass. To achieve this, golf course owners must have a clear vision of their expectations, along with a desire to put the systems and programs in place to realize this vision.

All-Time Low -11 -17 -6 1 -6 -5 -6

July Average High 92 89 91 95 92 90 88

July Average Low 73 70 70 72 71 71 69

All-Time High 108 107 107 109 108 103 105

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By Dave Minner, Ph.D., Professor, Iowa State University

ports-turf managers often inquire about proper mowing heights when their coaches request lower mowing, usually to speed up the field. Here are a few general mowing rules and actual examples from sports-turf managers to show how mowing strategies can change to fit specific needs.

grass for maximum density with shorter mowing rather than reducing density in the summer with taller mowing, and then, just before autumn football, lowering the mowing height.

Photo by Robert Barksdale, Because leaf growth changes Roanoke, VA with fertilizer, water and seasonal temperature, first fix the mowing height to match the sport, the coach’s expectations and The “one third” rule player ability. After agreeing on the height, develop a In general, the “one third” mowing rule suggests that you routine mowing frequency that does not violate the 1/3 rule and should not remove more than one third of the existing leaf add some of your own ideas to make the field shine. canopy at each mowing. In other words, when the grass gets to Here’s how some sports-turf managers have done it. a height of 3", set the mower at 2" to provide a 1" clipping.

Northwestern University in Chicago has a sand-based The 1/3 rule was based on canopy-removal studies that noted Kentucky bluegrass football field, typical of a high-end profesa decrease in rooting when more than 1/3 of the leaf volume sional or college field. Jeff Salmond, CSFM, has a strategy of was removed in a single mowing. It is interesting to note that maximizing turfgrass density and surface mat to prevent the 1/3 rule was based on research using leaf volume and that, breakthrough and exposure of unstable sand. With a Toro for ease of interpretation, it has evolved into a measure based triplex 2600 fairway mower, Jeff mows Monday, Wednesday on 1/3 of the mowing height. Either way, the 1/3 rule is a good and Friday without collecting clippings, to follow the 1/3 rule. standard that reduces turfgrass scalping and root loss, yet it His mowing height varies between 1-3/8" to 1-1/2" from says nothing about mowing-height strategy.

August through mid-October, and 1-1/4" at all other times.

Halfway through the autumn football season, Jeff lowers the Mowing-height considerations mowing height because the grass has worn some and growth Taller mowing provides deeper roots, which has particular has slowed due to cold temperature. Lower mowing allows for importance when dealing with heat and drought stress, some grass removal and a cleaner surface. From early spring especially in limited or non-irrigated situations. A taller mowing through summer, Jeff keeps the mowing height lower. “I like to height provides canopy shade (to cool the soil surface) and train the grass for maximum density and keep it from getting deeper roots to survive drought. In non-irrigated situations, too leafy and stringy,” he says. “Once we’ve made the density raising the mowing height is advisable to survive summer stress. during the spring and summer, we raise the height back to the In contrast, those with irrigation would be advised to 1-3/8" to 1-1/2" range for the first half of the football season.” maintain a consistent mowing height throughout all seasons.

This “new school” strategy is a good example of adapting Raising the mowing height may have benefits, but it also old mowing rules into a sound strategy to fit the sport and produces fewer shoots and less density. Within reason and as a coaches’ desires. The “old school strategy” would have been to rule, shorter mowing increases shoot density and provides a raise the mowing height during the summer to avoid stress and better biomass-mat barrier to keep players from contacting the lower it in the fall for the football season. Since drought is not soil. Shorter mowing usually requires more frequent mowing. a factor in this situation, Jeff options for the frequent and If water is not limited, then it is better to consistently train the shorter mowing rule that maximizes turf density.

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TURF TIPS John Netwal in North-Scott, Iowa, has a different mowing strategy for his former STMA Soccer Field of the Year. John’s sand-based high-school soccer field is always mowed at 5/8" with a National Triplex reel mower. His mowing frequency can range from daily to every three days, depending on rate of growth.

“We use Primo to regulate growth, reduce the amount of clippings and produce a thicker turf. Without the Primo, we would never be able to keep up with the mowing on our budget,” he says. “Because the clippings are so small, we can keep the mowing height low and still operate the mower faster, which cuts down our mowing time.”

Luke Yoder, director of field & landscape maintenance at San Diego’s PETCO Park, showed me something I had never seen before — a baseball field with the infield mowed taller than the outfield.

“The Bull’s-Eye bermudagrass on this new field was first mowed at 7/8", but the surface was too slow for the Padres,” he recalls. After a season of fine-tuning, here’s how Luke and the Padres now play it. The game-condition mowing height for the outfield is 1/2", and the infield is 3/4". At 3/4", the outfield was too tall, and players complained that the surface was too slow

and soft for their level of ability. Luke altered the mowing strategy to remedy the surface without damaging the grass. In fact, he comments, the aggressive Bulls-Eye prefers it that way.

“They needed a faster and firmer surface that didn’t hang up cleats. To get that, we needed to drop the mowing height to 1/2",” he says. “Mowing the aggressive bermudagrass constantly at the same height allows the grass to get puffy, and scalping occurs that makes the surface uneven and unsightly.

So when the team is away for seven days, we drop the mowing height of the outfield to 3/8" and the infield to 1/2".”

Luke does this for three days to scalp off the puffy top of the bermudagrass and allow new growth from below. “Four days before the players return, we raise the height back up to normal,” he says. “For a two-week road trip, we also have time to do some verticutting and topdressing.”

Umpires and officials enforce rules of the game. Coaches, players and athletic directors often influence the playing height of the field. But don’t ever forget that Mother Nature is the judge of all rules. Mow too short or too tall, not often enough or not at all, and she will make you pay with green you can’t afford. These three wise men have figured it out.

Reprinted with permission from SportsTurf magazine, a Green Media publication.

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I N D E X O F A DV E RT I S E R S

CA L E N DA R O F E V E N T S

Bayer Environmental Science www.bayerprocentral.com . . . . . . . 7 Bernhard & Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 BWI Companies www.bwicompanies.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9, 36 Commercial Discount Parts www.cdpparts.com . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Covermaster, Inc. www.covermaster.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Dixie Turf and Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 E & S Soil and Peat www.eandssoil.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Ewing Irrigation www.Ewing1.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Greenville Turf & Tractor www.JohnDeere.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Harmon Turf Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

June 13, 2006

MTGCSA Meeting Joel Simmons, President of Earth Works Location: The Legacy Golf Course, Springfield, TN

June 19, 2006

MAGCSA Meeting Dr. Terry Vassey, Univ. of Tennessee at Martin Location: Glenn Eagle, Millington, TN

June 20, 2006

ETGCSA Chapter Meeting Location: The Country Club, Morristown, TN

July 10, 2006

ETGCSA Chapter Meeting Location: Cedar Hills Golf Club, Lenoir City, TN

July 17–20, 2006

TPI Summer Convention & Field Days (Turfgrass Producers International) Location: Memphis, TN

August 3, 2006

East TN TVSTMA Field Day Location: University of TN, Knoxville, TN

August 10, 2006

University of Tennessee Turfgrass Field Day Location: Knoxville, TN

August 14, 2006

ETGCSA Chapter Meeting Location: The Ridges Golf & CC, Jonesborough, TN

August 31, 2006

West Tennessee Research Field Day Location: West Tennessee REC, Jackson, TN

January 15–17, 2007

41st Annual TTA Conference & Trade Show Location: Marriott Cool Springs, Franklin, TN

www.harmonturfservices.com

Harrell’s www.harrells.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Hunter Industries www.hunterindustries.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Jackson Sand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 K-Rain Manufacturing Corp. www.krain.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Keeling Company www.keelingcompany.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kesmac, Inc. www.kesmac.com . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover Mayes Turf Machines, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Mid Tenn Turf www.midtennturf.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Patten Seed Company/Super Sod www.zoysiagolf.com . . . . . . 44 Pennington Seed, Inc. www.penningtonseed.com . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Prosource One www.prosourceone.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Quail Valley Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Regal Chemical www.regalchem.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Smith Turf & Irrigation www.smithturf.com . . . . . . . . . Back Cover Southeastern Turf, LLC www.southeasternturf.com . . . . . . . . . . 34 Syngenta www.syngentaprofessionalproducts.com . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Tennessee Crop Improvement www.superiorseeds.org . . . . . . . 36 The Scotts Company / Landmark Seed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 www.scottsproseed.com

TifSport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 www.tifsport.com

Turf Mountain Sod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 www.turfmountain.com

Turf Specialties, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Turfgrass America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 www.turfgrassamerica.com

U.S. Chemical Storage Co. . . . . . . . . . . . 30 www.uschemicalstorage.com

United Agriculture Services of America . . . 7 www.uas-cropmaster.com Winstead Turf Farms, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 23 www.winsteadturf.com

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