Tennessee Turfgrass - April / May 2013 by leadingedgepubs

April/May 2013

The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, the Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

Why H erbicides Fail ... Eight Common Reasons W a sp s a n d B e e s o f Concern to Turfgrass Professionals

E a s i n g the Pain of Core Aeration

The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

TABLE OF CONTENTS

April/May 2013

FEATURED ARTICLES

Cover Story — Eight Common Reasons Why Herbicides Fail

Turf Tips — Easing the Pain of Core Aeration

Turf Safety — Wasps and Bees of Concern to Turfgrass Professionals

DEPARTMENTS From the TTA President, Bob McCurdy

From the TVSTMA President, Wayne Treadway

From the ETGCSA President, Jeff Rumph, CGCS 10 Index of Advertisers

Calendar of Events

From the TTA President Bob McCurdy

“Who Do’s the Work?” On

one of the first pretty days of spring, I was happy to be out of the office and out in the sun. I was helping to install a small dam, hoping to divert the water that had spent the winter creating a wash down the farm driveway. The shovel I was using was one of those that had the deep gooseneck just above the spade, the kind that you might use to clean out the bottom of an irrigation trench. Suddenly, my phone alerted me that I had received a text. Happy to have an excuse to lean on my shovel, I read my unimportant message and even made a reply to my friend. Pleased with the joys of modern communication, I looked up and realized that every employee on the farm was looking at some type of screen. Our spray technician was tinkering with the GPS that we use for spraying and mowing. Another guy was on his phone with the service manager of the local car dealership about repairs on his car. The bookkeeper was spending a few minutes on the internet. One of the mechanics was messaging his wife about a doctor’s appointment that afternoon. Even the person helping me with the shovel work had taken advantage of my break to send a text of his own. All of this technology reminded me of a story that one of our members told me at our 2013 TTA Conference. Following a great presentation about new and useful phone applications, I was waiting at the front of the room to thank the presenters. My friend walked up to me and told me about an older gentleman who had visited a local business and was trying to get his purchase loaded. But everyone he expected to help him was busy on the internet, talking on a cell phone or texting messages to unknown recipients. When one of the annoyed store employees finally paused to ask how he could help, the old man asked, “Who do’s the work?” Technology is essential for each of our individual occupations, but management and labor alike sometimes must be reminded that hard work is still essential to success. Your TTA board has been hard at work preparing for another year. New committees have been formed as we plan for the UT Turf and Ornamental Field Day on September 12 and the 48th TTA Conference and Trade Show on January 6–8. Until then, I hope that each of you enjoys a safe and productive summer.

Bob McCurdy

2012–2013 TTA President

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS April/May 2013 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@leadingedge communications.com Editor Dr. James Brosnan TTA OFFICERS President Bob McCurdy McCurdy Sod Farms (731) 692-3515 Vice President Paul Carter, CGCS Bear Trace at Harrison Bay (423) 344-6374 Secretary/Treasurer Theo Lankford Nashville Sports Leagues Past President Jay Willis Glen Eagle Golf Course (901) 508-1986 Executive Secretary Jim Uden Tennessee Turfgrass Assn. (615) 591-8286 TTA 2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bob Elliott Thomas Garner Luke Hankins Cal Hill Joe Hill Robert A. Main, CGCS Bill Marbet Mitch Parker Jason Pooler Jason Sanderson Sean VanHoose Doug Ward TTA ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Bill Blackburn Dr. Jim Brosnan Dr. Brandon Horvath Lynn Ray Jeff Rumph Dr. Tom Samples Dr. Dennis Shepard Dr. John Sorochan Dr. Wes Totten

From the T VSTMA President

Organic Matter — A Valuable Resource At

the national STMA conference, a vendor wanted me to try his product. I agreed to try a bag that he provided. I discovered that the product was mostly organic matter and that it was to be used at compacted areas: coaches’ boxes, in front of dugouts, behind home plate, etc. I applied the product as instructed. Time will tell as to the turf’s response. Use of this product caused me to think about organic matter. Organic matter is one of the most beneficial layers in the soil profile. It is the layer where all or most living organisms exist. These living organisms break down compounds into elements that turfgrass needs for growth. They exchange gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide. Organic matter aids in water infiltration. It provides nutrients and holds onto available water. Its low bulk density helps with compaction. I have not decided if the product I used is cost effective. I know the value of organic matter. If a sports field is constructed from a native soil, the organic layer should be stored and replaced after grading. This is especially true in a highclay soil. If a native soil has only two inches of organic matter, that is the most valuable two inches. A good sports turf manager knows the value of organic matter. Good topsoil

can be expensive. Turfgrass is not easily grown in low organic soils. Storing and replacing the organic layer will provide a growing medium for the turfgrass. The healthy turfgrass will provide a safe and

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Wayne Treadway

beautiful sports field, preventing problems for the sports turf manager.

Wayne Treadway

2012–2013 TVSTMA President

From the ETGCSA President

Lots to Look Forward to Here in East

Jeff Rumph

Tennessee!

pring is at last finally here. As my favorite Beatle, George Harrison, sang, “It’s been a long, cold, lonely winter.” And all of us would agree with the refrain, “Here comes the sun. It’s alright.” No kidding! In east Tennessee, we had the coldest March in history and the wettest January in history. We recorded twelve inches of rain at my course in January. Many superintendents were unable to get their spring preemergent and winter weed-control herbicides applied. I talked to one superintendent who was considering asking his sales rep if he could trade in his already purchased preemergent herbicide for a different product that had some early postemergence control in order to keep from having a bumper crop of crabgrass. We can only hope that since the weather was slow to warm up, maybe the weed seeds will be late to germinate. Activities associated with the East Tennessee GCSA, however, cannot be slowed by the lingering cold weather. This year’s list of meeting sites and speakers is warm and inviting. We started the year on April 22 with a “Mini Field-Day” at the UT Turf Research Center. Dr. Jim Brosnan asked

to have a meeting here in the spring in order to show research associated with herbicide-resistant Poa annua. Golf was held at the UT Golf Practice facility, where we participated in ETGCSA’s version of “The Big Break.” Host superintendent Mark Gossett arranged for players to be challenged by regular golf and skills contests. The Crossings Golf Club in Jonesboro, TN, was the site of our May 21 meeting. Josh Olinger was our host superintendent for ETGCSA’s first visit to The Crossings. Our speaker, Fox Den Country Club superintendent Scott Severance, discussed bentgrass management and prepping for a PGA tournament. June 26 will find ETGCSA at the River Islands Golf Club in Kodak, TN. Host superintendent Pat Toth will show off his MiniVerde bermudagrass greens that were planted in 2012. Chris Sykes will be the speaker, discussing pesticide reductions by creating low-maintenance areas. The Country Club of Bristol will be the site for our July 23 meeting, hosted by Tim Jessee. UT’s Director of Athletic Surfaces, Darren Seybold, will be the speaker, discussing his pesticide management in sports turf.

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On August 27, ETGCSA will visit Ridgewood Golf Club in Athens, TN. This will be the second golf course we will play in 2013 with greens recently converted to ultradwarf bermudagrass. (Do you see a trend here?) Host superintendent Brian Ford is converting Ridgewood’s greens to Champion, and our speaker will be Mike Brown, who will discuss pesticide management in ultradwarf bermuda. Chattanooga Golf and Country Club will host the 23rd Annual Scholarship and Research Tournament on November 11. Superintendent Jeff Hollister will host ETGCSA for the first time since he went through a major renovation at Chattanooga G&CC a few years ago. As you can see, we have a lot to look forward to for 2013. The quiet Beatle sang, “The smiles returning to their faces,” and I think we all have a lot to smile about as we go through the upcoming year. I hope that everyone has a very happy and healthy year.

Jeff Rumph, CGCS 2012–2013 ETGCSA President

Cover Story

Common Reasons Why Herbicides Fail By Greg Breeden, Weed Science Extension Specialist, and Greg Armel, Ph.D., Horticulture Weed Science, University of Tennessee

The

frustration can be unsettling. “Why won’t this weed die? I sprayed it with a herbicide, but for the life of me, I cannot figure out why it’s still here.” We hear this very common story from many turf managers trying to control tough weeds in athletic fields, golf courses, lawns and flowerbeds. Many times, just a small change in your approach to controlling the weed is all that is needed, but sometimes the problem can be a bit more complex. Whatever the weed-control challenge, it is likely that someone else has shared this same experience. Herbicides can be exceptionally effective tools to control problem weeds, particularly when the correct herbicide is chosen for the weeds present. Sometimes, though, herbicides just do not perform as planned. When this happens, there are often clear reasons for this reduction in

weed control. Some of the most common reasons for these herbicide failures are outlined below.

id you properly D identify the weeds and select the appropriate herbicide product?

Were the target weeds identified properly? If multiple weed species were present, did the herbicide product that you selected mention all of these weeds in the “Weeds Controlled” section on the label? When controlling weeds with herbicides, it is crucial to understand that different weed species will often respond differently to a variety of herbicide products. For example, 2,4-D is a highly effective herbicide for selective control of dandelion in home lawns. However, if you have both white clover and dandelion in your lawn, do not expect the 2,4-D alone

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to also control the white clover, even though both are broadleaf weeds. This is why herbicide manufacturers often combine multiple active ingredients into a single product, so that a multitude of weeds can be controlled by just one product. Therefore, make sure that you properly identify all of your weeds, and then choose the right product for the entire job. If you need any help with this, contact your local Extension agent.

as the herbicide 2. Wapplication rate correct? Different weed species may require not only different types of herbicide products, but also different rates of an individual herbicide product for control. Therefore, choosing the correct application rate to control a specific weed problem is imperative for optimal control. There are generally two types of herbicide applications: broadcast applications

and spot applications. Broadcast herbicide applications are made when a certain amount (pounds, quarts, pints or ounces) of an herbicide product is applied evenly over a specific amount of land, usually represented as per acre or per thousand square feet (1,000 ft2). Spot herbicide applications are often expressed as a percentage of the formulated herbicide per volume of the total spray mixture. In general, spot applica-

tion mixtures are often made up of 1% to 25% solutions of an herbicide product dissolved in a carrier, usually water or a water-plus-surfactant mixture. These spottreatment mixtures are applied to several small “spots” in a location where a target weed is found. The application usually involves spraying the foliage of the target weed until it is thoroughly wet. Unfortunately, getting the directions for a broadcast or spot application confused

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

Cover Story can lead to too much or not enough of the herbicide’s active ingredient in the spray solution, which in turn can lead to either subpar weed control or potential injury to non-target plants in the general vicinity. Therefore, always use the appropriate labeled rate for whatever application method you desire. If you have different kinds of weeds in your field that need different rates of the herbicide product of choice for control, always choose a rate that is adequate for control of all of the problem weeds. Do not use a lower-than-labeled rate to try to save money, and do not use more than the labeled rate, assuming that more is always better. The labeled rate must be applied for adequate control of all desired weeds, while minimizing the risk of unnecessary injury to non-target plants.

as the sprayer 3. Wcalibrated properly? We are routinely asked, “How much herbicide should I put in my sprayer?” Our first response is, “What is your application volume?” The sprayer application volume is the amount of herbicide plus carrier solution that will be applied through the sprayer over a specific area of land (usually represented in gallons/ acre or GPA, generally representative of broadcast applications), or it can be represented as the amount of herbicide plus carrier solution that is discharged from the sprayer in a specific amount of time (usually represented in gallons per minute or GPM, generally representative of spot treatment applications). Many times, we have found that the sprayer application volume is unknown to the person asking the question. If you do not know the application volume, you cannot determine the appropriate amount of herbicide to add to the sprayer tank, especially for broadcast applications. So, application equipment should be routinely calibrated to establish your application

volume and to ensure that it is functioning properly. Unfortunately, calibration can often be overlooked when things get busy, but if your sprayer volume is unknown or different than you expect, then the herbicide will be applied at the wrong rate. Therefore, it is extremely important to learn how to properly calibrate your sprayer, and check it at least once a season or every time a part on your sprayer is replaced or changed. Your local Extension office will have publications that can assist you further with sprayer calibration.

as the proper 4. Wadjuvant used? Many herbicides recommend an adjuvant to be added to the spray mixture. You may be wondering, “What is an adjuvant, and why do I have to add one more thing to the spray mix?” Adding an adjuvant to your spray solution will help increase the absorption of the herbicide into the plant. Adjuvants do this by changing the way the herbicide adheres to the leaf surface. This helps the herbicide get through the waxy leaf surface of many target weeds. Typical adjuvants are crop oil or nonionic surfactants. Certain herbicide products already contain their own internal adjuvant system. However, if the addition of an adjuvant is recommended for a specific herbicide product, always remember that the product will not provide optimal control without one.

hat about 5. Wrainfall or irrigation? Was there any rainfall or irrigation after the herbicide application? To work properly, preemergence herbicides need approximately 1/2" of rainfall or overhead irrigation within one week after application. On the other hand, any rainfall or irrigation soon after a postemergence herbicide application can cause decreased

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control because the herbicide may be washed off the leaf surface. Be sure to pay attention to irrigation timings or to anticipate rainfall around the time you plan to make a postemergence herbicide application. Some postemergence herbicides require only one hour of drying time, while others may require six hours or more of drying time before it is safe to run irrigation or encounter rainfall.

ere the weeds 6. Wunder stress? When weeds are under stress, especially drought stress, you will likely observe decreases in control. During times of stress, plants are just trying to survive — they are not actively growing or normally absorbing most herbicides. While it is not always possible to have perfect conditions, expect to get less control when conditions are not favorable for plant growth. One potential way to improve herbicide performance under stress conditions is to increase adjuvant rates or switch to more-aggressive adjuvant blends. While this may not improve weed control under all stress conditions, it is likely to improve absorption of herbicides in target weeds. As with any herbicide application, always consult both the herbicide and adjuvant product labels to make sure that you use appropriate rates for these specific situations.

hat was the weed’s W stage of growth at time of application?

In most cases, weeds are best controlled before they emerge or when they are young and actively growing. This is especially true when controlling annual weeds (weeds that complete their life in one growing season and reproduce by seed), like crabgrass or henbit. One question we often hear is, “How can I control these winter annual broadleaves, like henbit, when they are

Cover Story blooming in the spring?â&#x20AC;? Henbit and its close relative, purple deadnettle, are the purplish/pink-blooming mint family weeds you may see in yards in the spring. At this stage, henbit and other winter annual weeds are very difficult to control,

and more than likely, it is too late to prevent the production of viable seed. These winter annual weed species would have been best controlled by a preemergence herbicide in the late summer or early fall or with a postemergence herbicide follow-

ing their emergence in mid- to late fall. However, perennial weed species (weeds that survive the winter and regrow or continue to grow from the same root system for more than one year), like multiflora rose or dandelion, are best controlled with postemergence applications of a systemic herbicide just prior to or at flowering. Systemic herbicides translocate through the plant and do not just cause contact leaf burn. Therefore, you would not want to attempt to control a perennial weed with a preemergence herbicide because most preemergence herbicides will not provide suitable long-term control of these perennial weeds. The bottom line: Any attempt to control weeds at the wrong growth stage can lead to undesirable results. Take time to determine the best growth stage for making herbicide applications, so that you get optimal control of your problem weeds. Always make sure your herbicide product of choice fits with the stage of growth of the weeds you are trying to control.

you read 8. Dtheid entire label? Although labels can be difficult to read, reading the label is the most important thing you can do before applying any herbicide product. In fact, many of the problems outlined above can be prevented by a thorough review of the label BEFORE you apply the product. Reading the label will ultimately increase your chances that each herbicide application you make will adequately control your target weed of interest.

Final Thoughts If the items discussed above are addressed, many of the common issues associated with unsatisfactory herbicide performance can be avoided. Always remember that the label is the law. Pesticide use is governed by state and federal regulations, so be sure to read the entire label and follow all label directions. If you still have questions or concerns, contact your local Extension agent for help. With proper handling and use, herbicides are safe and effective tools for rapidly controlling many weeds. T 16

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Tur f Tips

Easing the Pain of Core Aerationâ&#x20AC;Ś

Ten Tips

for Quicker Recovery

By Patrick Gross, USGA Green Section Agronomist

Improperly adjusted aeration equipment can lead to tearing of the turf, damage to the root system, and prolonged recovery.

Making a clean aeration hole will expedite turf recovery. The goal is to make a clean, surgical cut so that the turf heals rapidly and redirects its energy to producing new roots and leaves to fill the voids.

ore aerating putting greens is a lot like going to the dentist. We know it is necessary a few times each year, but we hope the experience is as quick and painless as possible. Although core aeration temporarily diminishes putting quality, the short-lived pain results in a long-term gain for turf health by reducing thatch and organic-matter levels, relieving soil compaction, increasing soil oxygen levels and stimulating healthy root growth. Golfers begrudgingly understand these benefits but wonder why it sometimes takes so long for putting greens to recover. Core aerating greens will always result in some disruption, but steps can be taken to help the greens recover as quickly as possible. Superintendents use dozens of methods to aerate greens, the most popular being 1/2-inch-diameter hollow tines, commonly referred to as conventional coring. However, there are also small, pencil-sized hollow tines, high-pressure injection of water and/or sand, large-diameter drills and many others involving tines, knives or blades of varying shapes and sizes. Each procedure has its own benefits, and it should be up to the superintendent to decide which method is best, based on the prevailing climate, conditions and aeration goals for a particular golf facility. For the

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purpose of this article, only the standard practice of core aeration using 1/2-inchdiameter hollow tines or larger will be discussed, along with ten useful tips to get the maximum benefit from the procedure and restore smooth putting surfaces as quickly as possible.

ore aerate at #1. Cthe proper time. This is probably the single greatest factor affecting the success of the procedure and the time necessary for recovery. Core aeration should be done when the turf is healthy and actively growing so that the greens will heal and recover as quickly as possible. From an operational standpoint, most golf facilities determine aeration dates based on a calendar so that tournaments and events may be planned at least a year in advance. From an agronomic perspective, however, it is best to schedule core aeration based on a temperature model since soil temperature has the most influence on turf growth rate and the ability of the holes to recover quickly. For cool-season grasses like creeping bentgrass and tall fescue, core aeration is best performed in spring and fall when soil temperatures are consistently above 55Â°F and preferably

between 60°F and 65°F. For warm-season grasses such as bermudagrass and zoysiagrass, core aeration is best performed in late spring and throughout the summer when soil temperatures are above 75°F. Although it is nearly impossible to predict the weather one year in advance, historical weather records (along with personal experience) are helpful in determining the proper timing for core aeration. Attempting to aerate during the offseason or outside the recommended temperatures can have a dramatically negative effect on surface quality and can significantly delay recovery. As some golf facilities have experienced, attempting to aerate in late fall when the soil is too cold runs the risk that the greens may not recover until the following May or June, depending on winter and spring conditions.

ertilize three to five #2. Fdays before aeration. Stimulating turf growth a few days prior to aeration helps holes heal more rapidly once aeration is completed. It is best to use a soluble nitrogen source (e.g., urea, ammonium sulfate, calcium nitrate or potassium nitrate) that is readily available to the plant. Apply at a rate of 1/2 lb. nitrogen per 1,000 ft2, followed by watering the material into the turf.

rrigate to provide #3. Iadequate soil moisture. The greens should be irrigated one to two nights prior to aeration to bring the volumetric soil water content into the range of approximately 30% for the upper few inches of the rootzone or deeper if using longer aeration tines. Proper moisture content is not only important for healthy turf growth, but also it serves as a lubricant for the coring tines and helps to resist soil heaving and tearing of the turf. Excessive moisture should be avoided, as it can result in wheel rutting by the aer-

ation equipment and muddy conditions as soil cores are brought to the surface. Conversely, very dry conditions can result in shock and damage to turfgrass roots and contribute to a poor-quality aeration hole that is slow to recover.

ake a clean #4. M aeration hole. Proper equipment setup and an inventory of several new sets of hollow tines are essential for making clean holes. This will expedite recovery. The goal is to make a clean, surgical cut so that the turf heals rapidly and redirects its energy to producing new roots and leaves to fill the voids. Worn and jagged coring tines tear the turf and contribute to desiccation along hole edges, which slows recovery. The equipment should be checked and tested at least a week in advance to verify that adjustment and timing of the machine are correct and to ensure that a clean vertical hole is created. Aeration tines wear down rapidly and may only last for two to three greens. The superintendent and mechanic should monitor the equipment closely throughout the aeration process so that the coring tines can be changed promptly.

#5.

opdress with dry sand T on a clean, dry surface.

In an ideal world, the application of dry topdressing sand on a clean, dry turf surface helps the material to fill the holes as completely as possible. After the aeration cores are removed from the surface, a blower or high-pressure hose-end nozzle should be used to clear any remaining debris from the surface before applying dry topdressing sand. Dry sand moves into holes more readily, while moist sand tends to clump at the top of the aeration hole. The latter is referred to as bridging, and it requires more dragging to completely fill holes with sand. Rain or heavy dew

The use of handheld blowers is a useful technique to clear aeration cores and debris from the green in preparation for sand topdressing.

Push brooms are one of many methods used to fill aeration holes with sand while causing less damage and abrasion to the turf.

Frequent irrigation and supplemental hand watering throughout the day for several days are typically necessary to stimulate turf recovery and prevent aeration holes from drying out too quickly.

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Tur f Tips on the day of aeration can disrupt the process and may require extra brushing, dragging and irrigation to incorporate the sand. Often, just letting the topdressing sand sit on the surface of the green for an

hour or more provides enough drying so that the sand can be easily incorporated into aeration holes.

ill the aeration #6. Fholes completely to the surface.

Aeration tines can wear down rapidly and may only last two to three greens. Having several extra sets of coring tines and checking the equipment frequently throughout the process helps to ensure that maximum benefit is gained from the aeration process.

Partially filled aeration holes result in a bumpy surface and reduce the overall effectiveness of core aeration. The holes are going to fill up with something, and it will be more thatch and organic matter unless sand can be applied to completely fill the column. It is important to carefully set the metering device on the topdressing machine and monitor the mechanism throughout the process so that the proper amount of sand is applied to each green. Even when done properly, it is typical for sand to settle within the holes after a couple of days, leaving small depressions on the putting surface. Prepare to make a second application of sand at a lighter rate within three to five days to top off the holes and restore surface smoothness.

Avoid excessive

#7. turf abrasion when

incorporating sand into aeration holes.

The application of dry topdressing sand to a clean, dry turf surface helps the material readily move into aeration holes. If topdressing sand is moist, allowing it to sit on the surface of the green for an hour or more often provides enough drying time.

Typically, a steel drag mat, brushes or brooms are used to push sand into aeration holes. Dragging or brushing should be performed only to the point where sand has filled the holes and turfgrass leaves are visible on the surface. Excessive dragging can cause damage and abrasion to the turf and extend recovery time. For this reason, many superintendents are now using blowers to finish moving sand into aeration holes after an initial brushing is completed. Also, it is important to note that the angularity of the sand can contribute to turf abrasion during dragging and brushing operations. It is important to work with the sand supplier and an accredited

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physical soil-testing laboratory prior to aeration and topdressing to ensure that the size and shape of the sand particles are compatible with the putting green rootzone. A complete list of accredited physical soil-testing laboratories can be found at the American Association of Laboratory Accreditation (www.a2la.org).

oll the greens to #8. Rsmooth the surface. The use of a putting green roller after aeration and topdressing helps eliminate surface irregularities and provide reasonable putting quality. Rolling also improves mowing quality and reduces the potential for mowers to gouge or scalp tufts of grass that have been lifted up during the dragging and brushing process.

et the turf grow #9. Lthrough the sand

topdressing layer.

It defeats the purpose of core aeration and topdressing to put sand down one day and then mow it off the next. This is also a surefire way to ruin mower reels. For better overall turf quality and less damage to equipment, it is best to roll the greens for one to two days following aeration and topdressing and then resume mowing at 0.005 to 0.010 inches higher than the normal cutting height. It is typical for golfers to loudly complain for several days immediately after aeration, and the tendency for superintendents is to immediately resume mowing to clean the greens of any remaining sand. Such tendencies should be avoided by both golfers and superintendents. Trying to restore pristine putting surfaces immediately following aeration and topdressing largely defeats the purpose of either practice. And when putting greens do not get the full benefit of both procedures, the result is more aggressive and/or frequent cultivation treatments needed in the future.

rrigate and #10. Ifertilize to stimulate turf recovery.

The high volume of sand that is incorporated into aeration holes can dry out quickly and induce drought stress on greens, especially in the late afternoon. Frequent irrigation and supplemental hand-watering throughout the day for several days are typically necessary to stimulate and accelerate turf recovery. A follow-up application of a soluble fertilizer five to seven days after aeration at a rate of 1/4 lb. nitrogen per 1,000 ft2 further helps speed turf recovery and get the greens back to a smooth, dense and uniform condition.

Conclusion These ten points to ease the pain of core aeration may seem obvious, but unfortunately they are often overlooked. Like any simple procedure, problems tend to occur when shortcuts are taken. Aerating at the wrong time of year, not completely filling holes with sand and not paying proper attention to fertilizer and water applications before and after aeration are frequent mistakes. The end result is prolonged recovery, and putting greens will not receive the full benefit of the procedure. Keep in mind that despite meticulous planning, adverse weather can disrupt the process, and it is always a good idea to plan an alternate date for aeration when adverse weather is a concern. While golfers and superintendents never look forward to core aerating greens, following the steps in this article will make the process as painless and quick as possible. T Editor’s Note: This article originally ran in the November 16, 2012, issue of the USGA Green Section Record.

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

Tur f Sa fety

Wasps and Bees of Concern to Turfgrass Professionals

By Peter T. Hertl, Ph.D., Ricky L. Langley, MD, and Rick L. Brandenburg, Ph.D., North Carolina State University

Photo 1: Wasps perform a valuable service by preying on pests. (Photo courtesy of John Meyer.) 22

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ow sweet life would be if turfdamaging insects were all that turf managers had to worry about. However, that is never the case. In addition to the usual turf pests, a variety of other insects occasionally cause concern. These include stinging insects like wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and bees, which represent potential health and liability issues and often demand immediate attention.

Wasps Most of the familiar wasps, hornets and yellow jackets are predatory insects. Although the adults feed on carbohydrates from nectar, sap and fruit, they capture insects and spiders to supply their young with protein. From a management point of view, they are beneficial because they help keep plant-damaging insect pests under control (Photo 1). Unfortunately, some can and will deliver a painful sting, and the public fears most of them, whether they sting or not. Wasps around turf facilities can be divided into two groups: turf-associated wasps, and those that can occur at the site, but have no specific association with grass. Here are some facts about the most commonly encountered species, along with suggestions for dealing with those that present problems.

Photo 2: The cicada killer wasp can be intimidating, but it prefers to sting cicadas. (Photo courtesy of Ronald F. Billings, Texas Forest Service, Bugwood.org,) Photo 3: An adult sand wasp enters its hole. (Photo courtesy of Eric R. Eaton.)

Cicada killer wasps Perhaps the most feared wasp with a turfgrass association is the cicada killer, a large black and yellow wasp that looks like an oversized hornet or yellow jacket (Photo 2). This species excavates a large hole, with a mound of soil at the entrance. The adults capture live cicadas, paralyze them with a sting and drag them down the hole as food for their young. They rarely sting people, but the holes and excavated soil disrupt the appearance of the turf. Due to their large size, they are very intimidating to clients and employees. Cicada killers are beneficial in that they help keep cicada populations under control. They should be left alone when they are not located in critical areas. Where they occur near high-profile or

high-traffic areas, removal with a labeled insecticide is an option. However, they rarely inhabit well-maintained turf. They tend to be in well-drained areas where the turf is thin, and they generally appear in late spring or summer. The best longterm solution is to maintain a dense stand of grass. Heavy irrigation during the nesting season also deters them.

Sand wasps Another type of wasp with a turf association are the sand wasps (Photo 3), a name given to several different wasps that do not inhabit the turf, but instead make their holes in open sandy areas like sand traps and bunkers. They are a medi-

um-sized wasp, fly very fast and occasionally form colonies of numerous individual nest holes. Although they rarely sting, they can intimidate golfers, employees and other visitors to sandy areas.

Digger wasps Digger wasps are dark-colored and metallic in appearance. A common species is Scolia dubia, a parasitoid of the green June beetle grub. The adults are frequently seen zigzagging a few feet above the grass in mid summer. Although they may occur in considerable numbers, they do not present a stinging hazard. Additionally, they are performing a valuable service by parasitizing and

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Tur f Sa fety killing grubs in the soil. There are no management recommendations or need for control.

Tarantula wasp/pepsid wasp A large, eye-catching solitary wasp that forages over turf is the tarantula hawk. This is just one of a group of pompilid wasps that prey on spiders as food for their young. Pepsis menechma is a dark

Photo 4: The Tarantula hawk (Pepsis menechma) is large and impressive, but it is not aggressive toward people. (Photo courtesy of Patrick Coin.)

metallic blue-purple wasp with bright yellow antennae (Photo 4). It is easily twice the size of a paper wasp. When not hunting spiders, this wasp may be seen collecting nectar from flowers. They are not aggressive toward people, and they won’t sting unless handled roughly.

Yellowjackets Yellowjackets are some of the most common, dangerous and problematic insects in this group. They build nests in the soil, entering and exiting through one or more small holes (Photo 5). The underground colonies are sometimes quite large, but they often go unnoticed until they are disturbed. Then, look out! Although the insects are small, they have a painful sting and often attack in large numbers when the colony is disturbed. It is not unusual for a victim to receive several stings at one time.

Photo 6: The familiar “pipe organ” nest of the mud dauber. The holes mark where the young wasps emerged. (Photo by Peter T. Hertl.)

Yellowjackets are also a problem because they are attracted to food and sweet beverages. It is not unusual for them to show up as unwanted guests at picnics and other outings. Swatting at them or shooing them away can agitate them and incite them to sting. Occasionally, they will enter canned or bottled drinks, where they can be inadvertently swallowed and deliver a sting to tender areas of the mouth or throat. Several practices will help to minimize problems with yellowjackets. Emptying garbage cans frequently, and keeping the cans covered and away from high-traffic areas like playground equipment and picnic tables, help minimize the problem of attractive food sources. While yellowjacket traps can also help to reduce populations, they will not entirely solve the problem. When nests are found near areas frequented by employees or the public, it is

Photo 7: Vigilant about defending its nest, a paper wasp can deliver a painful sting. (Photo courtesy of John Meyer.)

Photo 5: Yellow jacket nest entrances are difficult to spot, and a second hole was completely hidden from view. The AC service technician was stung several times before escaping. (Photo by Peter T. Hertl.)

Photo 8: Paper wasps will build nests in equipment and other protected places. (Photo by Peter T. Hertl.)

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best to destroy them quickly. This is best done at night, when all the yellow-jackets are at home in the nest. Make sure to scout the area well in the daytime, as a second entrance hole is not uncommon. Quick knockdown pyrethroid insecticides (wasp and bee sprays) sprayed into the hole will generally take care of the problem. It is always advisable to wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt and pants when dealing with stinging pests. It may be useful to have an assistant hold a light during this process, but if the insects start to leave the nest, they will be attracted to the light, so caution is warranted. It may be necessary to re-treat the nest the following night.

Mud daubers Mud daubers are solitary wasps that build the familiar tubular “pipe organ” and other similar nests from mud (Photo 6). Eggs are laid within the tubes and are provisioned with paralyzed insects or spiders that serve as food for the hatching young. The adults are not particularly aggressive and are often seen gathering mud at puddles. They may present a problem, however, where they build their nests on walls or near doorways used by clients and employees. The simplest solution is to remove the nest during the building process or as soon as possible.

Paper wasps Paper wasps (Photo 7) produce the openfaced nests frequently seen hanging from the eaves of buildings. They will also build nests in other protected areas like equipment that is not regularly used or attended (Photo 8). These wasps overwinter as solitary queens that establish nests in the spring, and the size of the colony grows over the course of the summer as the queen produces young that mature to worker adults. The adults capture caterpillars, making them very beneficial predators, but they can deliver a painful sting. Paper wasps are mainly an issue where they build their nests near doors or walkways. The easiest way to deal with the problem is to remove the nest when it is first being built. This can be done very easily when the queen and/or the first TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

Tur f Sa fety few females are foraging away from the nest. The queen will usually relocate the nest somewhere else, after it is removed or destroyed. This process becomes more difficult as the summer progresses and as more wasps are added to the family. A rapid knockdown wasp and bee aerosol spray will quickly kill the wasps it contacts, and it is best applied at night when all the wasps are on the nest. Always wear long-sleeved shirt and pants when controlling any sort of flying stinging pest. Goggles or other protective eyewear is also advisable to protect the eyes from both wasps and sprays.

Photo 9: Bald-faced hornet nests are usually free hanging. (Photo courtesy of Sturgis McKeever, Georgia Southern University, Bugwood.org.)

Photo 10: Ground-nesting bees

can form large colonies in the spring. The activity lasts only a few weeks.

(Photo by Peter T. Hertl.)

Hornets

Honeybees

Two types of hornets are of concern. The more common species is the bald-faced hornet, which builds large grey, freehanging nests in trees and shrubs (Photo 9). Large nests can exceed the size of a basketball and can contain hundreds of hornets. The European hornet, Vespa crabro, is an introduced species in North America and much less common. They are large, mahogany and yellow hornets that build large, tan paper nests that are usually not free hanging. Nests are often located in hollow trees, walls or outbuildings, and they are usually partially exposed. Like other wasps, hornets are considered beneficial insects because they prey on other insects. Both types of hornets will also eat other stinging insects like yellowjackets. Normal foraging hornets, if left alone, are usually not a threat, but they can deliver a painful sting. Additionally, they are sometimes attracted to lights or windows at night. Attacks usually occur when the nest is disturbed. European hornet populations have grown, and so have nest sizes, making them a more serious threat and more difficult to control. Dealing with hornet nests is not for the faint of heart. Where the nests occur in unmanaged areas away from the public, it is best to leave them alone. Where nests must be controlled, a great deal of caution and the use of substantial protective clothing are necessary. The removal of very large hornet nests should be left to properly equipped professional exterminators.

Honeybees are a special case. They don’t sting except in self-defense, and they perform many important functions, like the pollination of plants and the production of honey. Honeybees occasionally produce a large mass of bees hanging in a tree or shrub or on a building. Although this may cause some concern, it usually isn’t a problem. These bees are just looking for a new home, and they almost never sting. In fact, beekeepers use this “swarming” behavior to collect new bees for their apiaries. Normally, the mass of bees will disappear on its own within hours or one or two days. They do not present a problem or a situation that can be controlled at the site.

Bees Like wasps, bees can be divided into those that are associated with turf and those that are not. Most species of bees are just visitors, passing through on their way to collect pollen and nectar. They perform a valuable service by pollinating trees, ornamentals and food crops. These include the common honeybee, alkali bees, sweat bees and many other native species that may visit turf or recreational sites. Most of these can sting, but they are generally not a localized problem (like yellow jackets) that can be dealt with on a reliable basis.

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Ground-nesting bees Ground-nesting bees are really the only bees of management concern to turfgrass professionals. These small to mediumsized bees nest singly in individual holes. They are usually the first turf insects that people notice in the spring. Warming soil temperatures allow the early spring species to emerge, and other types become active later in the spring and early summer. There are many types of ground nesting bees, and the date they become active will vary substantially, depending on the species and the location in the state. Although they nest singly in individual holes, these insects often occur in large colonies where hundreds of holes may be active in a small area (Photo 10). People are often concerned by the activity and the perceived potential of being stung. These small bees won’t sting, however, and their activity will usually cease in a few weeks. From an aesthetic point of view, the soil mounded around the entrance holes can cause concern. Chemical treatments are usually not necessary; instead, non-chemical deterrents include heavy watering in turf areas, or tilling and heavy mulching in landscape beds during the nesting period.

Chemical control A wide variety of aerosol sprays is available for use around buildings and under eaves or to spray into the holes of ground-

Tur f Sa fety nesting species like yellow jackets. All the insects mentioned here are highly susceptible to natural or synthetic pyrethroid insecticides, and these are the most common active ingredient in the fast knockdown sprays. In turfgrass or landscaped areas, carbaryl (a carbamate), pyrethroids like bifentrin, deltamethrin, cyfluthrin and many other labeled insecticides are effective for removing these insects in hightraffic areas. Some insecticides (like those used for grubs) may not be as effective, so make sure to check the label. For turfgrass-inhabiting species, however, a better long-term approach is to maintain a thick healthy stand of well-maintained grass that deters the insects from nesting.

Stings and treatment Wasps, yellow jackets, hornets and bees can all cause painful stings. Each year in the U.S., millions of people are stung, resulting in about 162,000 emergency room visits, 2,300 hospitalizations and 40–100 deaths. Fortunately, most stings are not serious and can be managed at work or home. Swelling, warmth, redness and tenderness develop at the site of a sting (Photo 11). These localized signs are due to enzymes and proteins in the insect’s venom. These signs and symptoms will usually go away after a few hours. To treat an insect sting, first immediately remove any stingers remaining in the skin. Then, wash the sting site with soap and water. Applying ice to the sting site may provide some mild relief. Ice may be applied for 20 minutes once every hour, and a cloth should be placed between the ice and skin to avoid freezing the skin. Pain medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen or aspirin are usually sufficient to provide relief. Antihistamine tablets/capsules taken by mouth (such as Benadryl®) may help control the swelling and itching. Additionally, for localized swelling and itching, an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream applied to the area may relieve symptoms. In most cases, no further medical treatment is needed. However, if the sting site becomes increasingly red or hot over the next day 28

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS April/May 2013

or two, or if a person develops a fever, an infection may possibly be developing at the sting site and the person should be evaluated by a doctor. If it has been over 10 years since the last tetanus immunization, the person should get a booster shot within the next few days. On rare occasions, a swarm of bees (like killer bees) or hornets may attack a person, resulting in hundreds of stings. In such cases, the massive amount of venom injected can cause toxic effects that can be fatal, though rarely. The stung individual should be taken to an emergency department for evaluation and treatment as soon as possible. About 3% to 5% of adults may have a more severe reaction (anaphylaxis) and develop hives or welts over their body, dizziness, shortness of breath and chest pain. They may have swelling of the tongue and throat and may die if they do not get immediate medical attention. This severe systemic reaction can occur after a single sting. A person experiencing such a reaction should be taken to a medical facility as quickly as possible. If the person is known to have a history of severe insect-sting allergies and is carrying an insect-sting kit (EpiPen®, Twinject™), then have the person use it. The kit is a preloaded needle and syringe containing epinephrine that is injected into the thigh. The individual should

always be taken to a medical facility even if his/her symptoms improve, as the symptoms can possibly recur over the next few hours. Individuals who have had a systemic reaction should be evaluated by an allergist to see if they need venom immunotherapy (allergy shots). This is an effective way to prevent further severe reactions. These injections can usually be stopped after three to five years of treatment.

Conclusion As with any insect problem, wasps and bee issues can be managed by correctly identifying the species you are dealing with and knowing if it represents a serious stinging threat. Where there is a high probability that someone may be stung, act quickly to eliminate the threat, and don’t forget to protect yourself during the process. Turfgrass professionals spend a great deal of time outdoors, and they often work at sites frequented by visitors or clients. Therefore, it is important to know what to do when stings do occur. Remaining calm and professional will help keep the situation from getting out of hand. Having the proper supplies on hand and knowing how to use them will help minimize health and liability issues, for both clients and employees. Quickly recognizing the onset of serious sting effects may save a life. T

Photo 11: The swollen hand (right) is the result of a paper wasp sting. (Photo courtesy of Clyde Sorenson.)

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TTA • TVSTMA • TGCSA

Calendar o f Events June 18

MAGCSA Meeting

North Creek Golf Club Southaven, MS

June 26

ETGCSA Meeting

July 23–25

TPI Summer Convention & Field Days (Turfgrass Producers International) Chicago, IL

River Islands Golf Club Kodak, TN

August 18–22

July 23

The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Conference Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Myrtle Beach, NC

ETGCSA Meeting

The Country Club of Bristol Bristol, TN

July 23

MAGCSA Meeting

Meadowbrook Country Club West Memphis, AR

StormCon — 2013 Conference

September 12

UT Turfgrass & Ornamental Field Day

August 27

ETGCSA Meeting

Ridgeland Country Club Athens, TN

October 23–25

PLANET Green Industry Conference Louisville, KY

October 23–26

School of Grounds Management and Green Industry Expo

Galt House Hotel and Kentucky Expo Center Louisville, KY

Knoxville, TN

Digital Market place

January 6–8, 2014

48th Annual TTA Conference

and Trade Show Location: Marriott Cool Springs, Franklin, TN

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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 © 2013 by the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. Tennessee Turfgrass is published bi-monthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. 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.

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