The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, the Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association
The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association
14
Upcoming Event
22
Cover Story
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Weed Watch
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010
F E AT U R E D A RT I C L E S
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Upcoming Event – Preview and Registration Forms for the 45th Annual TTA Turfgrass Conference and Trade Show
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Cover Story —
Overseeding Athletic Fields in Tennessee Weed Watch — Virginia Buttonweed, a Hard-to-Control Broadleaf
D E PA RT M E N T S From the TTA President, Jay Willis
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From the TVSTMA President, Theo Lankford
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From the ETGCSA President, Jeff Rumph, CGCS 10
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Calendar of Events
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Index of Advertisers
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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
F R O M T H E T TA P R E S I D E N T Jay Willis
A Must-Attend Event FOR OFF-SEASON PREPARATION!
“W
hoa, Nelly! Here comes the All American from Alabama!” Alright, guys and gals, that is the best Keith Jackson impersonation I could do in the form of a letter. Hearing those words spoken on TV for years would send chills down any football fan in the country, from just realizing the hard work and effort those teams endured to get to the level they are now. Just like with any great team, hard work and the will to continue to learn are “musts” during the season, and they’re just as important during the offseason. Studying playbooks and strategies, while reviewing the past season for tips and guidance for the coming season, are critical tasks when on-the-field activities die down in winter months. All great championship teams work just as hard to learn and thrive during the off-season as they do during the middle of the season. We all belong to a team, a team that relies on us to perform at our top level. A team is only as strong as its weakest link. Whether it is part of an athletic-field company, a parks and rec. division, a sod company or golf course, the team is there to achieve a common goal. It is our responsibility to make sure we are performing at our highest level as professionals, so that we don’t let our fellow team members down.
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During peak season, it’s hard to take time to study game plans — heck, the game has already started. Before kickoff, though, it is smart to be prepared and to use the resources we have to make our season a successful one. That is where the off-season training and education come into play. That is also where the TTA comes into play for all of us, with the annual Conference and Trade Show — making turf professionals throughout the state better at their jobs by learning new ideas and innovative techniques, as well as by networking with experts in the business. There’s simply no better way to prepare for the next season than to get a great game plan during the off-season with the TTA Conference and Trade Show. Be there, January 5–7, in Franklin, TN! So, go back to your team, and let them know the game plan you have for yourself and how you’re working hard during the offseason, preparing for a championship season in the future. And let TTA’s biggest event of the year get you off to a strong start!
Jay Willis 2010 TTA President
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, the Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association
Tennessee Turfgrass is the official publication of The Tennessee Turfgrass Association 400 Franklin Road Franklin, Tennessee 37069 (615) 591-8286 tnturfgrassassn@aol.com www.ttaonline.org 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. Bill Marbet TTA OFFICERS President Jay Willis Glen Eagle Golf Course (901) 508-1986 Vice President Bob McCurdy McCurdy Farms (731) 692-3515 Secretary/Treasurer Paul Carter Bear Trace at Harrison Bay (423) 344-6374 Past President Bob Hogan The Hogan Company (888) 224-6426 Executive Secretary Mr. Jim Uden (615) 591-8286 TTA 2010 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Joel Beckham Mr. Bob Elliott Mr. Doug Estes Mr. Thomas Garner Mr. Bill Marbet Mr. Scott McNeer Mr. Tommy Mittlesteadt Mr. Mitch Parker Mr. Chris Simon Mr. Doug Ward Mr. Sean VanHoose TTA ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Mr. Bill Blackburn Mr. Lynn Ray Mr. Jeff Rumph Dr. Tom Samples Dr. Dennis Shepard Dr. John Sorochan
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 Š2010 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 Nashville, 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) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524.
FROM THE TVSTMA PRESIDENT Theo Lankford
Another Great Year for TVSTMA Field Days
W
ell, here we are again! I hope all of you are doing well. With the wacky weather we have had this year, it seems just like yesterday that we were getting started. Here it is October, and it’s almost time for another year to begin. I hope everyone learned a little something this year. I know I did. Be thankful for what you have, and look forward to what you may be getting. I hope everyone had the opportunity this year to go to one of our three TVSTMA field days. Lots of new ideas were thrown around, and old practices were discussed. I have enjoyed meeting and getting to know most of you who come to these field days. These gatherings are well worth the time away from the job, even if only to network with your peers (although the education is certainly valuable, too!). The Upper East Field Day was very successful. If you missed it, well, you missed it.
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Speaker Mike Goatley, Ph.D. (from Virginia Tech), did an awesome job telling us about organic fertilizers and how compost can be a real tool. David Williams, Ph.D. (from the University of Kentucky), gave us some valuable information on seeded bermudagrass. Thanks to those guys for a job well done. I also would like to thank Wayne Treadway and the City of Dandridge for hosting the event. The facilities tour was particularly great. Start making plans now to attend the 2011 Tennessee Turfgrass Conference & Tradeshow. Many informative sessions will be held just for those of us in sports-turf management. This must-not-miss event is already on my calendar — be sure to put it on yours!
Theo Lankford 2010 TVSTMA President
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
FROM THE ETGCSA PRESIDENT Jeff Rumph
It’s Been a Great Year for ETGCSA, Despite the Weather!
As
you all well know, it has been one very hot summer. June was characterized by very little rainfall and very high temperatures. My golf course experienced a stretch of 18 straight days with highs at or above 90ºF. To follow that, July was worse, with 23 out of 31 days at or above 90ºF. August was equally stifling and miserable. Now I know, the folks in Memphis will say to quit whining, since they experience these harsh conditions every year, but I guess I’m just not tough enough, and certainly my greens haven’t been tough enough. Still, it was a brutal stretch, and the bentgrass greens in East Tennessee have seen more than enough heat stress. Hopefully, by the time this issue of Tennessee Turfgrass has been published, the heat wave will have subsided and recovery will be taking place. As for the ETGCSA, we had five great meetings this year, plus the Scholarship and Research Tournament in October. The first meeting this year was at Moccasin Bend Golf Course in Chattanooga. Chad Malone was our host, and James Spann, a meteorologist from ABC3340, was the speaker. If you ever get a chance to hear him speak or look at his website (abc3340.com), please do. He is very knowledgeable and entertaining. During lunch, we were made aware of a development going on at Chattanooga Golf & Country Club. Jeff Hollister received a call from his assistant saying that an eagle had become entangled in the driving range net high 10
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in the air. Many suggestions were made as to how to deal with this. Some suggested calling the zoo or TWRA, and some suggested calling the NRA. Thankfully, cooler, smarter heads prevailed, and Jeff told me they were able to get a bucket truck to the course and free the eagle. A heavy rainstorm caused our outing to be shortened to nine holes. Chad’s course was great, and I’m hoping that we can play there again, the next time all the way through. In May, we had the first-ever/lastever ETGCSA Field Day Golf Outing hosted by yours truly at Gatlinburg Golf Course. This was a unique event in that there was no speaker. Attendees played golf, and while they played, there were viewing stations at each hole where the group had to answer a turf question. Most of the questions were variety ID, plus a few other oddball questions. I was impressed that two teams missed only three out of 18 questions. I think everyone had fun, but it might have been a little stressful, challenging their minds and golf games at the same time. In June, ETGCSA met at Ridgefields Country Club in Kingsport. Host Brent Maples had the course in great condition, and our speaker was turf pathologist Brandon Horvath, Ph.D., from The University of Tennessee. Like last year, I once again saw deer running across in front of us. Pretty cool. In July, we had our first-ever meeting at Warriors Path State Park Golf Course in Kingsport. Now, I don’t know
how many of you know our host, David Cloud (aka Cosmo Kramer), but he is quite a character. He also has quite a reputation. By the way, it’s okay if I say that because he knows it and he encourages it. His reputation would lead you to believe the worst, but I am here to tell you that I was impressed. THE GOLF COURSE WAS EXCELLENT!!! His bunkers were perfectly edged and trimmed, the greens were smooth, and everything else was in great condition. A very fun golf course, and a place that would be a great vacation site for boaters and campers who play golf. Kathy Conard was our speaker, and wetting agents were the topic. Quite appropriate for the weather that we were experiencing. The August meeting was held in Chattanooga at the Bear Trace Golf Course at Harrison Bay, hosted by Paul Carter. On October 5, we held our 20th Annual Scholarship and Research Tournament at Cleveland Country Club, hosted by Leslie Marlow. I hope that the rest of the year is pleasant for all, and I look forward to seeing all my turf friends from around the state in January, at the TTA Conference and Trade Show.
Jeff Rumph, CGCS Gatlinburg Golf Course 2010 ETGCSA President
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
45TH ANNUAL
2011 TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW PROGRAM
JANUARY 5, 6 AND 7, 2011
FRANKLIN MARRIOTT COOL SPRINGS 700 COOL SPRINGS BLVD. • FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE 37067
PROGRAM & MEMBER REGISTRATION 14
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
CONFERENCE PROGRAM SPEAKERS AND TOPICS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON, JANUARY 5
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Session
2:15 p.m.
Moderator: Mr. Matt Elmore, The University of Tennessee
1 p.m. Welcome to the 45th Tennessee Turfgrass Conference Dr. John Sorochan, The University of Tennessee
1:15 p.m.
Lessons Learned After 20 Years at Neyland Stadium Mr. Bobby Campbell, CSFM
3:15 p.m.
TTA Business Meeting and Awards Reception
One Year, Two Majors Dr. Phil Dwyer, The Scotts Company
THURSDAY, JANUARY 6
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8:30 a.m.
2:45 p.m.
Continental Breakfast NEED A SPONSOR Contact Jim Uden (615) 591-8286
New Options for Dollar Spot Control Mr. David Shell and Dr. Brandon Horvath, The University of Tennessee
Concurrent Session #1 Moderator: Mr. David Shell, The University of Tennessee
9:00 a.m. Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for Golf Courses: 20 Years and Counting Mr. Jim Sluiter, Audubon International
9:45 a.m. The Life of a Prill: Fertilizer Development at The Scotts Co. Dr. Phil Dwyer, The Scotts Company
10:30 a.m. Dallisgrass Control Programs without MSMA Mr. Matt Elmore, The University of Tennessee
11:15 a.m. Controlling Tennessee’s Top 10 Turf Weeds Dr. Jim Brosnan, The University of Tennessee
Concurrent Session #2 Moderator: Mr. Lucas Freshour, The University of Tennessee
9:00 a.m. Turfgrass Under Stress: What a Quality Fungicide Program Can Do for You Mr. Jesse Benelli and Dr. Brandon Horvath, The University of Tennessee
9:45 a.m. Nematodes in the Southeast Dr. Maria Tomaso-Peterson, Mississippi State University
10:30 a.m. Take It to the Forefront: Promoting the Activities of State Turfgrass Associations Mr. Terry Poley, Michigan Turf Foundation
11:15 a.m.
LUNCH
New Technology for Managing Irrigation Dr. Bernd Leinauer, New Mexico State University
1:15 p.m.
12:00 p.m.
12:00 p.m.
Large Patch Control Options in Zoysiagrass Dr. Brandon Horvath, The University of Tennessee
2:00 p.m. Weed Control and Seedhead Suppression in Zoysiagrass Dr. Jim Brosnan, The University of Tennessee
LUNCH
1:15 p.m. Business Value of Environmental Stewardship on Golf Courses Mr. Jim Sluiter, Audubon International
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION
15
THURSDAY, JANUARY 6
(continued) . . . .
FRIDAY, JANUARY 7
2:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Bermudagrass Management on Athletic Fields Dr. John Sorochan, The University of Tennessee
All-Day Workshop on Disease Diagnosis and Management
2:45 p.m. 2010… What a Year! Mr. Chris Hartwiger, U.S. Golf Association
Drs. Alan Windham and Brandon Horvath, The University of Tennessee and Dr. Maria Tomaso-Peterson, Mississippi State University Limited to 30 people. Fee: $125
8:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. TGCSA Annual Meeting
4:00 p.m.
TRADE SHOW Please support our vendors! 4:30 p.m. TTA SOCIAL On Trade Show floor. Sponsored by Ladds, Syngenta & Winfield Solutions
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
Continental Breakfast Sponsored by Valent Professional Products
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
TRADE SHOW Please support our vendors! With Continental Breakfast. 12:00 p.m. LUNCH On your own.
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
FRIDAY, JANUARY 7 (continued) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Concurrent Session #1 Moderator: Mr. Jesse Benelli
1:15 p.m. Lessons Learned During My Summer Internship Mr. Andrew Lane and Mr. Aaron Bryant, The University of Tennessee
2:00 p.m. Broadleaf Weed Control with Imprelis in Seedling Tall Fescue Mr. Greg Breeden, The University of Tennessee
2:45 p.m. Bermudagrass Cultivars for Tennessee Dr. Tom Samples, The University of Tennessee
Concurrent Session #2 Moderator: Mr. Keith Bartley, The University of Tennessee
1:15 p.m. UT Center for Safer Athletic Fields: Construction Update Mr. Adam Thoms, The University of Tennessee
2:00 p.m. Selecting New Poa Species for Use in Tennessee Mr. Lucas Freshour, The University of Tennessee
2:45 p.m. New Technology for Scheduling Field Maintenance Activities Mr. Larry Berry, CSFM, Lee University
3:30 p.m. CONFERENCE ADJOURNS Please have a safe trip home.
4 5 T H A N N U A L TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE
AND
TRADE
SHOW
PLEASE COMPLETE, SIGN AND RETURN THIS FORM WITH YOUR PAYMENT.
REGISTRATION FORM
COMPANY NAME: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please list all information as you would like it to appear in the 2011 TTA Annual Directory.
ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY/STATE/ZIP: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ TELEPHONE: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ FAX: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ EMAIL: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
PRIMARY FUNCTION COMMERCIAL VENDOR TURF MANAGER ❑ Commercial Lawn Care ❑ Equipment Dealer ❑ Golf Course ❑ Retail Center ❑ Distributor ❑ Parks & Recreation ❑ Landscaping ❑ Manufacturer ❑ Sports Field ❑ Irrigation Contractor ❑ Other_______________ ❑ Hotel/Resort ❑ Hospital/Health Care ❑ DOT ❑ Other_______________ ❑ School/University ❑ Cemetery ❑ Other_______________ PLEASE CHECK THE BOX FOR ADDITIONAL ASSOCIATION AFFILIATIONS:
❑ PGMS
❑ TNLA
❑ TVSTMA
❑ TGCSA
❑ Other _____________
Please list the first and last names of the persons attending the 2011 Conference & Trade Show. Attach separate list if needed.
❶ ❷ ❸ ❹ ❺ ➏ ❼ ❽
REGISTRATION OPTIONS ❶
❷
❸
❹
❺
➏
❼
❽
Primary Member Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 175.00
TOTAL $
Price includes 2011 Membership Dues
Returning Member Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 125.00 $
For members who haven’t attended the Conference in the past three years. Fee includes free 2011 TTA membership.
Associate Member Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 120.00 Registrants from the same facility are eligible for Associate Membership if the facility has two primary members.
$
Student Member Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
60.00
$
One-Day Pass (Limit 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
75.00
$
One-Day Student Pass (Limit 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
10.00
$
FREE
$
Extension
$
First-Time Attendee One-Day Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . Endowment Fund Contribution ❑ Research ❑ Scholarship
❑
GRAND TOTAL
$
Please make checks payable to:
Tennessee Turfgrass Association • 400 Franklin Road • Franklin, TN 37069 (No Credit Cards)
TTA OFFICE USE ONLY
Date______________
Check No. ______________
Cash ______________
CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW PLEASE COMPLETE, SIGN AND RETURN THIS FORM WITH YOUR PAYMENT.
BOOTHS
SIZE
UNIT PRICE
BOOTHS 100 – 823
80 SQ. FT.
$495
QUANTITY
TOTAL
(Max limit of 4)
ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIP TO TTA: 1 included with 10’ x 8’ booth rental.
$50
TOTAL Please make checks payable to : Tennessee Turfgrass Association 400 Franklin Road Franklin, TN 37069 (No Credit Cards)
FIRST CHOICE
SECOND CHOICE
THIRD CHOICE
BOOTH PREFERENCE 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 Jim Uden at (615) 591-8286 for Marriott form and further information. Purchased luncheon tickets will be included in vendor packet upon registration and setup. PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE THE FOLLOWING: NAME:
MEMBER NAME:
(Person responsible for the booth)
(To be included in Directory)
SIGNATURE: FIRM: (As your ID sign should read)
MAILING ADDRESS: CITY: TELEPHONE:
STATE:
ZIP: 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:
CONTRACT FOR EXHIBIT SPACE
45TH ANNUAL TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION
RULES & REGULATIONS OPENING AND CLOSING: The exhibit officially opens at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, January 6, 2011, and will close at 12:00 p.m., Friday, January 7, 2011. EXHIBIT SET-UP AND BREAKDOWN: General booth set-up will be from 10:00 a.m., Thursday, January 6, 2011, until 2:30 p.m. All exhibits must breakdown12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., Friday, January 7, 2011.
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.
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.
USE OF SPACE: All demonstrations, interviews, distributions of advertising material or other activities must be confined to the limits 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.
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.
BOOTHS: There will be sixty five (65) 10’ x 8’ booths available. Each will be piped and draped. Each will have a 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, wastebasket and one I.D. sign.
FLOOR PLAN
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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.
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
Please indicate preferences on Exhibit Space contract
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
TURF TALK
By Adam Thoms, Research Leader, U.T. Center for Athletic Field Safety; John Sorochan, Ph.D., Associate Professor; and Jim Brosnan, Ph.D., Assistant Professor; The University of Tennessee
In
Tennessee, fall means two things: football and overseeding bermudagrass athletic fields. Overseeding protects the dormant bermudagrass from the damaging effects of traffic stress during fall and spring (Photo 1, page 24). Research at The University of Tennessee in Knoxville has found that overseeding can increase the number of games a field will maintain acceptable cover (>70%) by up to as much as 23%. Although overseeding offers numerous benefits, athletic field managers should consider several things before moving forward with an overseeding project.
Cost While overseeding can greatly improve the aesthetic and functional quality of a bermudagrass athletic field during the fall and spring, it is important to consider the costs of overseeding. In 2004, the total cost of overseeding a bermudagrass field with perennial ryegrass in 22
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
Tennessee was reported to be $821.71 (UT Extension Pub. SP651). This figure includes the cost of seed, extra mowing, labor and herbicides required for ryegrass removal. The cost of overseeding a bermudagrass athletic field can be significant for some athletic field managers.
Species selection Field managers that choose to overseed are making an investment in their fields. Commonly, blends of perennial ryegrass seed are available that are high in purity and germination percentage, which allow for a uniform stand of perennial ryegrass to be quickly established after seeding. While several species can be established as overseeded turf, perennial ryegrass is often selected since it germinates quickly from seed and exhibits dark-green color and slow growth after establishment (decreasing the need for mowing). Perennial ryegrass also offers increased traffic tolerance compared to other species like
intermediate and annual ryegrass. If overseeding is delayed following purchase of the seed, be sure to store the seed in a cool, dark area that is free of moisture.
Seeding process Seeding rate is a critical component of a successful overseeding project. Research conducted here at The University of Tennessee has reported that optimum ryegrass cover throughout the fall can be achieved with overseeding rates of 400 to 800 pounds of pure live seed per acre. Rates lower than 400 pounds of pure live seed/acre have been shown to provide inadequate cover, while higher rates have not resulted in improved performance (thus, essentially the money spent on extra seed was wasted). Timing of overseeding is also important. The goal is to overseed before the bermudagrass enters dormancy. In Tennessee, most fields are overseeded between the middle of September and
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
the middle of October. The goal is to find 7- to 14-day windows when fields will not be in use, to allow the new seed to germinate and mature before being subjected to foot traffic. Seed should be applied in two perpendicular directions across the field to promote uniform coverage (Photo 2). In order for an overseeded turf stand to become established, seed-to-soil contact is essential. While scalping the bermudagrass canopy is one method of facilitating seed-to-soil contact, it is not recommended, since it places unnecessary stress on the bermudagrass right before it enters dormancy. Rather than scalping, gradually lower the height of cut a few weeks ahead of overseeding to reduce the competition from the bermudagrass. A light vertical mowing can also open the bermudagrass canopy to facilitate seed-tosoil contact. Another strategy is to stand up the bermudagrass canopy by using brooms or artificial turf-grooming equipment.
TURF TALK
Clockwise from top left: Photo 1. Overseeded with perennial ryegrass, Neyland Stadium (in Knoxville, TN) provides an aesthetically pleasing playing surface through the end of the season. Photo 2. Overseeding with perennial ryegrass at The University of Tennessee’s football practice fields in the middle of September. Photo 3. Lightweight rolling will promote good seed-to-soil contact and increase perennial ryegrass survival. Photo 4. More heattolerant cultivars of perennial ryegrass tend to persist into the summer months, creating clumps of perennial ryegrass that are more difficult to control. Clumpy ryegrass can be both unsightly and a potential safety hazard on athletic fields
Seedling maintenance Sand topdressing after overseeding can help push seed through the bermudagrass canopy and can serve as mulch, reducing water loss from the underlying soil. Light sand topdressing should be continued throughout the fall even after the perennial ryegrass is mature, as it helps prevent the buildup of organic material at the soilturf interface. Many coaches and players claim that overseeded ryegrass has a “slick” layer between the soil and turf canopy that results in poor traction. Weekly 24
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
sand topdressing will help dilute the buildup of any organic material. Topdressing rates should be light enough that there is no sand present in mower clippings. Lightweight rollers can be used to smooth the surface and further promote seed-to-soil contact (Photo 3). Fields should be rolled when dry to prevent newly sown seed from adhering to the roller and being removed from the seedbed. Starter fertilizer should also be applied after overseeding. Look for fertilizers with 1-2-1 or 1-1-1 analyses. This fertilizer
should be applied at a rate of 1 to 2 lb. phosphorus (P2O5) per 1,000 ft2. Newly overseeded fields will also need to be watered several times per day to prevent newly sown seed from drying out. Once mature, the juvenile perennial ryegrass stand will also require more water than bermudagrass, as perennial ryegrass has a less robust root system. Mowing should be withheld for at least three days after overseeding to prevent seeds from being accidentally removed from the surface on mower tires, blades,
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com
etc. Once mowing resumes, newly overseeded perennial ryegrass fields should be maintained at heights ≼ 7/8 of an inch. Mowing will force the ryegrass to mature sooner. Care should be taken when mowing with a reel mower if field conditions are wet, as the reel mower may pull out newly emerged ryegrass.
Ryegrass transitioning Historically, older cultivars of perennial ryegrass could not withstand summer temperatures in Tennessee and would naturally be eradicated during the early summer as temperatures increased. However, perennial ryegrass breeding efforts have led to the development of heat-tolerant cultivars that can perpetuate during the Tennessee summer heat. This is problematic, as research has shown that bermudagrass needs approximately 100 days of growth without perennial ryegrass competition to provide maximum performance during the summer and fall. Although growth of heat-tolerant overseeded turfs will not be significant, most of these perennial ryegrasses will persist in a dormant state during the summer as dense clumps that are not only unsightly, but also are a potential safety hazard on athletic fields. In these instances, the persisting perennial ryegrass is commonly referred to as a weed termed “clumpy ryegrass� (Photo 4). Clumpy ryegrass is more difficult to control than overseeded perennial ryegrass. Research at The University of Tennessee has reported that a well-timed herbicide application in early spring should provide nearly 100% control of the overseeded perennial ryegrass within 21 days after treatment, while many of the same herbicides will only provide an average of 50-60% control of clumpy ryegrass during the same time period (Figure 1). Therefore, turf managers who decide to overseed in the fall should be committed to chemically removing the overseeded perennial ryegrass in spring with a transitioning herbicide. Research at North Carolina State University has reported that cultural practices alone will not result in complete removal of overseeded perennial
TURF TALK Figure 1. Differences in overseeded perennial ryegrass and clumpy ryegrass with various herbicides.
A slower response does not mean that these herbicides are less effective. In general, warmer temperatures usually increase the speed of transitioning. Applications at soil temperatures lower than 50ºF are not recommended, due to potential reductions in efficacy. Make sure to take extra precautions if applying transitioning herbicides on slopes or areas adjacent to sensitive cool-season turfgrasses. Herbicides used to chemically remove perennial ryegrass have been shown to move off-site not only with surface water, but also with foot or equipment traffic. Maintaining buffer zones between treated and sensitive areas and removing dew with irrigation (<1/8 inch) the morning after application will help to prevent problems.
Conclusion ryegrass turf. Herbicidal transition aids are essential. In Tennessee, these transition aids should be applied sometime beginning in mid-April through mid-May. Numerous herbicides are labeled to chemically remove overseeded perennial ryegrass
from bermudagrass turf (Table 1). The speed of transition should be considered when choosing a herbicide. Kerb and Manor (formerly marketed as Blade) are older products that tend to work more slowly than some of the newer sulfonylurea herbicides, like Monument.
Overseeding dormant bermudagrass athletic fields with perennial ryegrass will improve color and functional quality during cooler months. Given the cost of overseeding, it is important that field managers take the time to plan each step of the project in advance, from seed selection to herbicidal removal.
Table 1. Herbicides used in the chemical transition of perennial ryegrass back to bermudagrass.
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Herbicide
Formulations
Active Ingredient
Rate/Acre
Comments
Certainty
75WDG
sulfosulfuron
1.25–2 oz.
Repeat applications may be necessary for complete control. Make sequential application when daily temperatures exceed 80°F. If a single application is preferred, apply at the 2 oz. rate.
Katana
25WG
flazasulfuron
0.5–3 oz.
Apply at 50% bermudagrass green-up for optimal maintenance of a green turf situation.
Kerb
50WP
pronamide
1–2 lb.
Very slow, but effective. Highly mobile. Can slow bermudagrass green-up in spring.
Manor
60WDG
metsulfuron
0.125–0.5 oz.
Repeat applications are often required for complete control.
Monument
75WG
trifloxysulfuronsodium
0.1–0.53 oz.
The lower rate allows for a more gradual transition. Higher labeled rates and warmer temperatures will result in faster removal.
Revolver
0.19SC
foramsulfuron
8.8–26.2 fl. oz.
Repeat applications (4- to 6-week interval) may be necessary for complete control. Higher labeled rates and warmer temperatures will result in faster removal.
Tranxit
25DF
rimsulfuron
0.5–2 oz.
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
Should not be applied in areas where children can contact turf. Repeat applications may be necessary for complete control.
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WEED WATCH
VIRGINIA BUTTONWEED, a Hard-to-Control Broadleaf
By Greg Breeden, Weed Science Extension Assistant, and James T. Brosnan, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Turfgrass Weed Science Plant Sciences, The University of Tennessee
One
of the most difficult-to-control broadleaf weeds, Virginia buttonweed (Diodia virginiana) can form very dense mats in established turf. It commonly proliferates in poorly drained areas and can tolerate mowing heights as low as 1/2". This deep-rooted perennial produces both above- and below-ground flowers. Its prolific seed production, extensive root system and ability to vegetatively reproduce make control extremely difficult.
Virginia buttonweed identification
Photo 1. Mat of Virginia buttonweed.
Virginia buttonweed is a spreading perennial with opposite leaves (Photo 1) that often have a mottled, yellow appearance due to a virus that commonly infects the foliage. Stems are occasionally hairy. A unique characteristic of Virginia buttonweed is that it produces both above- and below-ground flowers that self-pollinate. The above-ground flowers are white and star-shaped with four petals (Photo 2). Fruit are often green and elliptical with hairy ridges (Photo 3). Above-ground fruit are buoyant, allowing them to be transported with surface water to other areas. Virginia buttonweed produces deep taproots and rhizomes that often start at the nodes. Rhizomes can be found as deep as several feet below the soil surface. Virginia buttonweed can also reproduce from stem fragments. If not removed, clippings from mowing or weed-eating can
Photo 2. Virginia buttonweed flower. 28
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
Photo 3. Virginia buttonweed fruiting structure.
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CONTINUED establish into mature plants. Hand removal of Virginia buttonweed is often ineffective, because any stem fragments or rhizomes left behind can produce a viable plant.
Control options See Table 1 for a complete list of herbicides active against Virginia buttonweed.
Option #1: sulfonylurea herbicides The best programs to control Virginia buttonweed utilizing sulfonylurea herbicides are two applications (four weeks apart) of Corsair (chlorosulfuron) at 3 oz./ acre, Manor (metsulfuron) at 1 oz./acre or Monument (trifloxysulfuron) at 0.53 oz./acre are. Beginning applications in May (before Virginia buttonweed begins to flower) will improve control, as will
including a non-ionic surfactant at 0.25 percent v/v in the spray solution.
Option # 2: phenoxy and phenoxy-type herbicides Sequential applications of materials that contain three or more phenoxy (or phenoxy-type) herbicides can be used to control Virginia buttonweed in established turf. Materials containing clopyralid or fluroxypyr in the mixture have performed well in research at The University of Tennessee. Clopyralid is found in such herbicides as Confront (triclopyr and clopyralid) and Millenium Ultra (2,4-D, clopyralid and dicamba), while fluroxypyr can be found in herbicides such as Spotlight (fluroxypyr) and Escalade II (fluroxypyr, 2,4-D and MCPP).
Sequential applications of Confront at 1 or 2 pt./acre, Millenium Ultra at 2.5 pt./acre or Escalade II at 2 or 3 pt./acre are the most effective options for control of Virginia buttonweed with phenoxy or phenoxy-type herbicides. Multiple applications of Confront will injure bermudagrass at the 2 pt./acre rate, so be sure to use the lower rate of 1 pt./acre.
Final thoughts Always refer to the product label for specific information on proper product use, tank-mix compatibility and turfgrass tolerance. For more information on turfgrass weed control, visit The University of Tennessee’s turfgrass weed science website at http://tennesseeturfgrassweeds.org.
Table 1. Herbicide options for Virginia buttonweed control Product Name
Active Ingredients
Rate/ac
Turf Species
Confront
triclopyr + clopyralid
1-2 pts.
Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, Centipedegrass
Corsair
chlorsulfuron
3 oz.
Escalade II
2,4-D + fluroxypyr + dicamba
2-3 pts.
Manor
metsulfuron
1 oz.
Millennium Ultra 2
2,4-D + clopyralid + dicamba
2-3 pts.
Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass
Momentum fx2
2,4-D + triclopyr + fluroxypyr
3-4 pts.
Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, Centipedegrass
Monument
trifloxysulfuron
0.53 oz.
Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass
2-4 pts.
Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass
3-5 pts.
Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass
Powerzone
Speedzone
carfentrazone + MCPA + MCPP + dicamba carfentrazone + 2,4-D + MCPP + dicamba
Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, Centipedegrass Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, Centipedegrass
Spotlight
fluroxypyr
0.67-2.5 pts.
Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, Centipedegrass
Surge
sulfentrazone + 2,4-D + MCPP + dicamba
3-4 pts.
Kentucky Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass
Three-way Selective, Trimec Classic, Trimec Southern, Triplet, Others
2,4-D + MCPP + dicamba
ProductDependent
Product-Dependent
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS OCTOBER 26–30 NRPA Congress & Expo (National Recreation & Park Assn.) Minneapolis, MN
NOVEMBER 9 Middle Tennessee GCSA Meeting Hermitage GC, Old Hickory, TN
OCTOBER 28–30 Green Industry & Equipment Expo Kentucky Expo Center Louisville, KY
NOVEMBER 11 Memphis Area GCSA Meeting Chickasaw CC, Memphis, TN
NOVEMBER 1 Middle Tennessee GCSA Scholarship & Research Tournament Westhaven CC Franklin, TN
JANUARY 5–7, 2011
45th Annual TTA Conference & Trade Show
JANUARY 11–15, 2011 STMA Annual Conference (Sports Turf Managers Assn.) Austin, TX JANUARY 31– FEBRUARY 4, 2011 TPI Midwinter Conference (Turfgrass Producers International) Orlando, FL FEBRUARY 7–11, 2011 Golf Industry Show Orlando, Florida
Marriott Cool Springs Franklin, TN
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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
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