Tennessee Turfgrass - December / January 2014

December/January 2014

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

Managing Calcium, Magnesium and Sulfur in Turfgrasses Winterkill‌

Understanding, Preventing and Diagnosing It

Also Inside!

48th Annual TTA Turfgrass Conference & Tradeshow, Program & Registration Forms

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

6

December/January 2014

FEATURED ARTICLES

6 14 20 26

Upcoming Event — 48th Annual TTA Turfgrass Conference & Tradeshow, Program & Registration Form Cover Story — Managing Calcium, Magnesium and Sulfur in Turfgrasses Turf Talk — Winterkill… Understanding, Preventing and Diagnosing It

14

Professional Matters — 8 Ways to Be Memorable at Networking Events

DEPARTMENTS Calendar of Events

4

5

From the TTA President, Bob McCurdy

10

From the TVSTMA President, Wayne Treadway

12

From the MTGCSA President, Joe Kennedy

13

Index of Advertisers

30

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS December/January 2014

20

Calendar of E vent s January 6–8

48th Annual TTA Conference and Trade Show Marriott Cool Springs Franklin, TN

JANUARY 13–17

Green & Growin’ Show (NC Nursery & Landscape Assn.)

Greensboro Coliseum Greensboro, NC

January 17–18

Tennessee Green Industry Expo (TN Nursery & Landscape Assn.)

Music City Center Nashville, TN

January 21–24

STMA Conference and Exhibition Grand Hyatt Hotel San Antonio, TX

February 3–6

Golf Industry Show Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL

February 24–28

TPI Mid-Winter Conference (Turf Producers Intl.)

Orlando, FL

TTA • TVSTMA • TGCSA

5

48

th

Annual

Tennessee Turfgrass Association

Conference and

Tradeshow

January 6, 7 and 8, 2014 Franklin Marriott Cool Springs 700 Cool Springs Blvd. • Franklin, Tennessee 37067

A Growing Tradition In Tennessee’s Green Industry

6

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS December/January 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

CONFERENCE PROGRAM MONDAY, JANUARY 6 General Session

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

LUNCH (on your own)

9:00 a.m. – 9:55 a.m.

Understanding Your Soil Test: Keys to Minimizing Pest Invasion

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

2 Pesticide Points

TRADESHOW

Attendees will learn how to minimize pest invasion and subsequent pesticide use in turf through implementing the results of soil tests.

Dr. David Kopec, University of Arizona

10:00 a.m. – 10:55 a.m.

The Best Hiring and Firing Practices for Pest-Management Professionals in the Green Industry

Please support our vendors!

4:00 p.m.

TTA Business Meeting and Awards Reception Presidential Address

Mr. Bob McCurdy, TTA President

The Importance of TTA

Dr. Scott Senseman, Head of the UT Plant Sciences Department

Mr. Patrick McGuiness, Zilmen & McGuiness, PLLC

When Life Looks Like Easy Street, There Is Danger at Your Door

11:00 a.m. – 11:55 a.m.

Breeding Turfgrasses for Integrated Pest Management on Golf Courses

Dr. Fred Yelverton, NC State University

Attendees will learn about the turfgrasses being bred for use on golf courses that are less susceptible to invasion from weed, disease and insect pests.

Dr. Leah Brilman, Seed Research of Oregon

7:00 p.m.

Social for BCS Game

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7 8:30 a.m. | Breakfast

Concurrent Session #1

Concurrent Session #2

Technology Tools to Manage Putting Surface Quality and Consistency

Technology Workshop for Turf Managers: New Technology Tools for Integrated Pest Management in Turf —

Morning Classes | 2 Pesticide Points 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Attendees will learn about tools to monitor the quality of turfgrasses on golf course putting greens.

Dr. Brandon Horvath, The University of Tennessee

How to Interview Candidates in the Pest-Management Industry for Best Results

Mr. Patrick McGuiness, Zilmen & McGuiness, PLLC

Species Selection for Athletic Fields in the Transition Zone to Help Reduce Stress

Attendees will learn about the turfgrasses being bred for use on athletic fields that are less susceptible to invasion from weed, disease and insect pests.

Dr. Leah Brilman, Seed Research of Oregon

Morning Classes | 3 Pesticide Points 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Attendees will learn about new technology tools for selecting, implementing and monitoring the need for pesticide applications on golf courses, athletic fields and residential/commercial lawns.

Bring Your Mobile Device!

Mr. Bill Brown, CGCS, Turf Republic

Twitter: It’s Not Just for the Birds

Attendees will learn about using social media as a means of communicating the need for and implementation of turfgrass management practices, including pesticide applications.

Mr. Bill Brown, CGCS, Turf Republic

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | LUNCH (on your own)

Continued on page 8 TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

7

CONFERENCE PROGRAM TUESDAY, JANUARY 7

(Continued)

Concurrent Session #1

Concurrent Session #2

Herbicide Resistance: A Growing Problem

Irrigating Turf: What You Need to Know to Maximize Quality

Afternoon Classes | 2 Pesticide Points 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon Classes | 2 Pesticide Points 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Attendees will learn about the growing problem of herbicide resistant weeds in turfgrass. An overview of herbicide resistance in row crops will be provided to shed light on what can be done in turf to prevent this phenomenon from worsening.

Dr. Jim Brosnan, The University of Tennessee Dr. Tom Mueller, The University of Tennessee

2013 Year in Review

Attendees will learn about the agronomic struggles and successes of golf course superintendents in 2013. Prominent pests and effective control measures will be discussed.

Mr. Chris Hartwiger, United States Golf Assn.

Attendees will learn about irrigation strategies to maximize the quality of warm- and cool-season turfgrass that, in return, reduce their susceptibility to pest encroachment.

Dr. David Kopec, University of Arizona

A Closer Look at Athletic Field Safety

Attendees will learn about strategies to improve the safety of natural and synthetic turf athletic fields. Practices such as species selection, overseeding and weed control will be discussed.

Dr. John Sorochan, The University of Tennessee

3:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | TGCSA Annual Meeting 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | TRADESHOW SOCIAL — Please support our vendors!

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8 8:30 a.m. | Breakfast

Concurrent Session #1

3 Pesticide Points 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Mobile Weed Manual: A New Tool for Herbicide Selection in Turf and Ornamentals

Attendees will learn about a new mobile application designed to assist end-users in selecting herbicides for use in turf and ornamentals.

Mr. Greg Breeden, The University of Tennessee

Maximizing Ultradwarf Bermudagrass Quality

Attendees will learn about strategies to maximize the quality of ultradwarf bermudagrass putting greens. An overview of cultural practices will be presented along with a discussion of herbicide, fungicide, insecticide and growth regulator programs.

Mr. Rodney Lingle, CGCS, Memphis Country Club

UT Turfgrass Student Internship Feature

Attendees will learn about experiences of UT Turfgrass Science & Management students interning at turf management facilities.

Students will share lessons learned while implementing agronomic turf management practices along with pest management practices such as application of herbicides, fungicides and plant growth regulators.

Mr. Mark Follis, Mr. Matthew Layne and Mr. Mac Kirkpatrick, The University of Tennessee

Concurrent Session #2 3 Pesticide Points 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Foliar Feeding Made Easy

Attendees will learn about foliar applications of fertilizer to turfgrass stands to maximize vigor/quality and minimize pest invasion and pesticide use.

Dr. Tom Samples, The University of Tennessee

Diagnosing Pesticide Damage to Trees

Attendees will learn how to diagnose pesticide damage to trees found in turfed landscapes.

Dr. Larry Tankersley, UT Extension

Strategies for Reducing Heat on Synthetic Turf Athletic Fields

Attendees will learn about chemical and non-chemical means for reducing heat on synthetic turf athletic fields. Use of irrigation will be discussed along with other experimental technology.

Mr. Eric Reasor, The University of Tennessee

Factors Associated with Dollar Spot Development and New Possibilities for Control Attendees will learn about dollar spot, one of the most debilitating diseases of turfgrass, and new possibilities for control using fungicides and new novel technology.

Mr. David Shell, The University of Tennessee

Strategies to Optimize the Performance of Bermudagrass Athletic Fields in Tennessee

Attendees will learn about strategies to optimize the performance of bermudagrass athletic fields in TN. Practices such as species selection, disease susceptibility, cold tolerance, overseeding, mowing, weed control and plant growth regulator use will be discussed.

Mr. Kyley Dickson, The University of Tennessee

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS December/January 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

Annua l T ennessee Turfgr ass Asso c ia tion

Conf eren c e an d T ra d e S h o w Please complete, sign and return this form with your payment.

Please list the first and last names of the persons attending the 2014 Conference & Trade Show. Attach separate

Please list all information as you would like it to appear in the 2014 TTA Annual

list if needed.

Directory:_ ______________________________________________________________

1)_______________________________

Company Name:_________________________________________________________

2)_______________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________

3)_______________________________

City/State/Zip:_ __________________________________________________________

4)_______________________________

Telephone:______________________________________________________________

5)_______________________________

Fax:_____________________________________________________________________

6)_______________________________

Email:___________________________________________________________________

7)_______________________________

Primary Function Turf Manager

Commercial

q Golf Course

q Hospital/Health Care

q Parks &

q School/University

q Commercial

Lawn Care

q Cemetery

q Retail Center

q Sports Field

q Sod Producer

q Landscaping

q Hotel/Resort

q Other_______________

Recreation

Vendor q Irrigation Contractor

q Equipment Dealer

q DOT

q Distributor

q Other_______________

q Manufacturer q Other______________

Registration Options 1

2

3

4

5

6

Primary Member Registration....................$185.00

7

8

Total $

Price includes 2014 membership dues.

Returning Member Registration.................$130.00

$

For members who haven’t attended the Conference in the past three years. Fee includes free 2014 TTA membership.

Associate Member Registration.................$125.00

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)..................................$80.00

$

One-Day Student Pass (Limit 1)...................$10.00

$

First-Time Attendee One-Day Pass................ FREE

$

Endowment Fund Contribution q Research q Scholarship q Extension

$ Grand Total $

TTA Office Use Only:

Date ________________

Check No. ________________

Cash ________________

Regis tr ation Form

48 th

From the TT A President

Bob McCurdy

Warming

By Fires That I Did Not Build

This

is my last president’s article for the TTA magazine. I appreciate the opportunity to serve as your president. These 24 months have given me a new look at the hard work that goes on in our association. But our success has so little to do with me. I’ve been blessed to enjoy the warmth of fires that others have built. Included in this list are past presidents and boards of directors.

They laid a very sturdy foundation that we are all enjoying. Others have also done so much to make our association strong.

Many thanks go to Mr. Jim Uden as he patiently listens and considers new ideas that we want to explore. He welcomes change, but he also understands the need to hold a steady course and keep our business sound.

It has been a pleasure to work with Leading Edge Communications (our magazine’s publisher) and Liz Nutter, managing editor for Leading Edge. We have an outstanding magazine, and the support from Leading Edge is exceptional.

I offer my gratitude to Dr. Jim Brosnan for such an outstanding job in planning our Conference. Dr. Brosnan spends countless hours organizing and planning, so we can come together to learn and enjoy.

Thank you to the TTA board for supporting me these two years. I’ve made some mistakes and blunders, but the board has continued to stand by me.

I’ve been blessed to have the support of my family, as I’ve neglected some things that they deserve. I also appreciate their proofreading of these pages.

And, most importantly, I want to thank you, our members. Thank you for your professional contributions to the industry that we have chosen and for your financial support of TTA. You’ll have a chance to find out what your association has been up to on Monday, January 6th at our 48th annual membership meeting. I urge every member to register for the Conference and Trade Show and attend the business meeting. This is where we will elect new board members and discuss the progress of the past year. We have an outstanding conference planned, and it’s just for you. I hope you nominate someone for the awards. Maybe it should even be you! And don’t forget to support our vendors.

They do so much for us.

The Tennessee Turfgrass Association operates just for professional turf managers.

Like turf, TTA needs nurturing, supporting and, sometimes, even changing. I hope you will continue to support it with not only with your membership, but also with your time. We need to keep the fires burning.

Bob McCurdy

2012–2013 TTA President 10

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS December/January 2014

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 (615) 799-8664 Past President Jay Willis Glen Eagle Golf Course (901) 508-1986 Executive Secretary Jim Uden Tennessee Turfgrass Assn.

(615) 591-8286 TTA 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bob Elliott 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. John Sorochan Dr. Wes Totten

From the T VS TM A President

Thanks for the

Support

The

last two years have flown by. I can’t believe 2014 is just around the corner.

I want to thank the members of TVSTMA for letting me be your president. I could not imagine, in my wildest dream, that I would be able to represent this professional organization. When I think back at the professionals who have held the position of president, I know I could not fill their shoes. I do know, though, that next year will be very successful with T.J. Derrick as our leader.

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To get T.J.’s year off to a good start, we need to attend the state conference in Nashville. Everyone needs to attend if possible and invite anyone who is or could become a member of TVSTMA. In football, we hear of teams not performing because the numbers of players are not available. The same can be said of our team. If TVSTMA is to perform to its capability, we need members, and each member must participate. A football team would fail if players refused to participate in the game. TVSTMA will not

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS December/January 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

Wayne Treadway

perform up to its potential unless every member participates.

Everyone needs to make a New Year’s resolution to invite anyone you know who is a potential candidate to become a member of TVSTMA and be active in our organization in 2014.

Thanks, again, for your support of TVSTMA.

Wayne Treadway

2012–2013 TVSTMA President

From the MTGCSA Presiden t

Reflections and

Looking Ahead It’s

hard to believe that another year is nearly over. I always look forward to a new year, but I try to never forget the lessons from the past. Look forward, but always remember why you got into this business in the first place. I hear too many golf industry people complain about the problems with their “jobs.” While there will always be complaints and problems in any business, we must always remember how lucky we are to do the work we have chosen. Working with nature is a privilege — being outside, enjoying the four seasons, fresh air, etc. We are truly blessed. I love going to work today as much as I did the very first day I went to work on a golf course 39 years ago. I hope you all can stay in touch with that feeling.

This past summer’s cool weather probably slowed the advance of the ultradwarf bermudagrasses. I guess we never know what the future will bring. There is no right or wrong answer. If we meet our members’ needs and expectations, our work will always be a pleasure. See your members and guests as friends, and not as adversaries.

The Middle Tennessee GCSA had a great year. We finished the year with more members than we have had in years. Our fundraising golf Tournament at Greystone GC in Dickson was practically a sell-out!

It’s great to see such interest in our association. We would love to have any and all

of you as our guests at a future meeting.

Watch Tennessee Turfgrass magazine for a list of our 2014 meetings.

With the upcoming new year, what better time than to attend the Tennessee Turfgrass Annual Conference and Tradeshow, January 6–8! Listen to great speakers, interact with a great lineup of vendors, get your pesticide and certification points and share information with your peers.

Enjoy all of this at a time of year when you can afford to be away from the course.

Make plans now to attend the 2014 TTA Conference in Franklin!

See you there!

Joe Kennedy, CGCS 2013 MTGCSA President 2013 TGCSA President

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

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Cover St ory

Managing Calcium, Magnesium and Sulfur in

Turf

By Tom Samples, Ph.D.; John Sorochan, Ph.D.; and Adam Thoms, Plant Sciences Department, The University of Tennessee

In

order to be classified as “essential,” a chemical element or nutrient must be required by a plant for healthy growth and development. Atmospheric carbon dioxide supplies turfgrasses with carbon, while water is the source of both hydrogen and oxygen. Turfgrasses take up the remaining 14 essential nutrients (mineral nutrients) from soil. An essential mineral nutrient may be required in large (macronutrient) or very small (trace or micro) quantities. Due to the amounts needed by turf-

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grasses, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) are categorized as primary macronutrients. Although calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S) are categorized as secondary macronutrients, they are no less important than N, P and K.

Sources and plant-available forms of Ca, Mg and S in soils Calcium, the fifth-most-abundant mineral nutrient in the earth’s crust (4.2% by weight, Table 1), comes from weathered rocks and minerals, including anorthite,

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS December/January 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

apatite and biotite. Calcite (calcium carbonate — CaCO3), dolomite (calcium carbonate + magnesium carbonate — CaMg(CO3)2) and gypsum (calcium sulfate — CaSO4) are also sources of Ca. Magnesium is the eighth-most-abundant mineral nutrient on earth. In addition to dolomite, many types of silicates (for example, augite, biotite, hornblende, muscovite and olivine) contain Mg. Sulfur occurs naturally as a pure element (native S) and as sulfide (pyrite — iron sulfide; sphalerite — zinc sulfide)

Table 1. Elements in the Earth’s crusta.

Element

Approximate Percent By Weight

Oxygen

46.6%

Silicon

27.7%

Aluminum

8.1%

Iron

5.0%

Calcium

3.6%

Sodium

2.8%

Potassium

2.6%

Magnesium

2.1%

All Others

1.5%

a From: Lutgens, F.K. and E.J. Tarbuck. 2000. Essentials of Geology, 7th Ed.,

Prentice Hall.

Table 2. Fertilizers Containing Calcium, Magnesium and/or Sulfurb.

Mineral Nutrient / Fertilizer

Nutrient Content

Calcium Calcium carbonate (calcitic limestone)

40% Ca

Calcium chelate (CaEDTA)

3% to 5% Ca

Calcium magnesium carbonate (dolomitic limestone)

22% Ca

Calcium Sulfate (gypsum)

23% Ca

Triple superphosphate

12% to 14% Ca

Animal and municipal wastes

2% to 5% Ca

Magnesium Calcium magnesium carbonate (dolomitic limestone)

13% Mg

Magnesia

55% Mg

Magnesium chelate (MgEDTA)

3% to 5% Mg

Magnesium chloride

8% to 9% Mg

Magnesium sulfate

20% Mg

Animal and municipal wastes

2% to 4% Mg

Sulfur

and sulfate (CaSO4, alunite-potassium aluminum sulfate) minerals. Much of the S in soils is supplied by organic matter and, as a result, is located near the surface. Excessive S levels have been linked to the development of “black layer,” a condition common during hot, wet weather and especially visible in (but not limited to) fertile, sand-based golf greens and sports fields.

Calcium, Mg and S must be in an appropriate, plant-available form in order to be absorbed from soil. Turfgrasses take

Ammonium sulfate

24% S

Ammonium thiosulfate

26% S

Calcium sulfate (gypsum)

18% S

Elemental sulfur

90% S

Magnesium sulfate

14% S

Ordinary superphosphate

11% to 12% S

Potassium sulfate

18% S

Sulfate of potash magnesia

22% S

b From Anon. 2013. NC State Soil Science: SSC 341, Soil fertility and

fertilizers. Soil science courseware for distance learning and online instruction. http://courses.soil.ncsu.edu/ssc341/distance/chapters/ch7/main7_2.html.

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

15

Cover St ory up Ca in the cationic form Ca2+. Similarly, Mg2+ (the cationic form of Mg) is also plant available. Turfgrasses take up S in anionic form (SO42-).

The functions and mobility of Ca, Mg and S in turfgrasses Calcium A part of plant cell walls and membranes, calcium affects their strength and permeability. Calcium is also necessary for cell division and expansion. The amount of Ca2+ in the soil solution surrounding turfgrass roots influences the amount of K and sodium (Na) a plant absorbs.

For example, when the solution is low in Ca2+, the amount of K+ and Na+ absorbed is often very similar. However, when the supply of Ca2+ in soil solution is adequate, much more K+ is absorbed than

Na+. Calcium also improves the uptake of nitrate N (NO3-).

The mobility of Ca in both soil and plants is very limited. Calcium is delivered to turfgrass leaves by the xylem.

Since the uptake of Ca2+ from soil solution is directly related to the rate at which a turfgrass is transpiring water, high humidity, high soil salinity and low air temperatures may result in very low or deficient levels of Ca.

Magnesium Because it is part of the chlorophyll molecule, Mg is critically important for photosynthesis. Magnesium is also required for protein production and many more reactions involving the transfer of energy. Magnesium also improves the uptake of P (H2PO4- and HPO42-) from soil solution.

Although somewhat more mobile than Ca, Mg is generally considered immobile in soil. However, Mg is mobile in turfgrass plants.

Sulfur Once inside a turfgrass plant, S may remain as SO42- in root and shoot tissues and in cell sap. Eventually, much of the SO42- reacts with other compounds and is transformed. Sulfur is used in the formation of certain amino acids (cysteine and methionine), proteins and oils. Additionally, it is used in structural components of protoplasm and in the activation of certain enzymes and vitamins. Sulfur nutrition also affects a turfgrass plant’s ability to produce chlorophyll.

Although S is highly mobile in soil, its mobility in turfgrass plants is very restricted.

Signs of Ca, Mg and S deficiencies Calcium In turfgrass that is deficient in calcium, the tissue along the margins of young leaf blades often appears reddish brown.

This discoloration occurs between veins and may eventually extend to the mid-vein. If the deficiency is not corrected, tissue color often fades to lighter shades of red, and the leaf tips wither and die.

Magnesium Since Mg is mobile in turfgrasses, deficiency signs appear first on older (lower) leaves. The tissue between veins of older leaves usually turns pinkish-red, and the discoloration may appear blotchy, a condition that does not usually occur in plants deficient in Ca.

Sulfur Generally, the leaves of turfgrasses deficient in S have a pale, yellow-green color.

Leaf tips may first appear to be scorched.

This scorching or firing eventually advances from tip to base along the leaf margins. Mid-ribs often remain green until, eventually, the entire leaf withers and dies.

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS December/January 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

CONTINUED Fertilization and liming An effective fertilization program maintains an adequate supply of essential mineral nutrients in solution within the root zone and in plant tissues. Calcium, Mg and S can be applied to turfs in granular or liquid form. Several common fertilizer sources of these nutrients are listed in Table 2 (page 15).

Acid levels in soils increase as basic nutrients including Ca2+, Mg2+ and K+ are replaced by H+ due to soil erosion, leaching and uptake by turfgrasses. A soil test may indicate that the soil is too acidic for optimum turfgrass growth. Lime neutralizes soil acids and increases soil pH. If a soil test report indicates a need for Ca but not Mg, a lime source containing primarily Ca carbonate (CaCO3) can be applied. If the soil is low in Mg as well as Ca, dolomitic limestone deserves consideration since it contains both CaCO3 and MgCO3.

The routine application of acidforming fertilizers may also increase acid levels in soils and lower the soil pH. For example, the conversion of ammonium (NH4+) to nitrate (NO3-) N in soils produces acid. An estimated 3 to 4 pounds of agricultural limestone per 1,000 sq. ft. is required to neutralize the acidity resulting from the application of each pound of N applied in ammoniacal form per 1,000 square feet.

Not all sources of Ca increase soil pH. An application of gypsum, a “neutral� mineral salt containing 23% Ca and 18% S will not substantially raise or lower soil pH. Elemental S and other S-containing fertilizers can be applied according to soil-test recommendations if it is necessary to lower the soil pH. Through the years, several fertilizers supplied S in addition to N, P and K. In many of today’s granular turfgrass fertilizers, 0-20-0 (which contains 12% S) has been replaced with 0-46-0, a more concentrated source of P containing only about 1% S.

Calcium, Mg and S in irrigation water In Tennessee, irrigation water may contain substantial amounts of Ca, Mg and/or S, and it may or may not be highly alkaline.

Cover St ory Alkalinity, the concentration of soluble compounds in water capable of neutralizing acids, is often reported as parts per million (ppm) or milliequivalents per liter (meq/l) of CaCO3 equivalents. Carbonates and bicarbonates dissolved from the geologic materials of the aquifer supplying irrigation water are primarily responsible for this alkalinity. Since rainwater has no alkalinity, the pH of soil supporting turf irrigated with alkaline water may drop slightly during rainy years when less irrigation is needed.

Hardness indicates the amount of Ca and Mg that water contains and also may vary from aquifer to aquifer. For example, irrigation water from a limestone aquifer may contain more than 100 ppm Ca, while water from a sandstone or shale aquifer may contain less than 10 ppm Ca.

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Sulfur, reported as ppm SO42-, is also measured in a standard irrigation water quality test to help identify a potential deficiency or toxicity problem.

Factors affecting turfgrass uptake of Ca, Mg and S from soil • Heat stress often restricts Ca, Mg and S uptake from soil.

• Layering magnifies the problem by restricting water percolation and gas exchange within the turfgrass root zone and by increasing the moisture level near the soil surface.

• The uptake of Ca, Mg and S from soil may also decline as the transpiration rate of turfgrasses slows in direct response to drought stress.

• The availability of Ca for uptake by

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS December/January 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

turfgrasses decreases with increasing soil acidity.

• The application of too much fertilizer containing competitive mineral cations (including K+ and Mg2+) can also create a nutrient imbalance in soils and reduce Ca absorption.

• High levels of NH4+, K+, Ca2+ and manganese (Mn2+) in the soil can limit the uptake of Mg2+, as can low soil temperatures and pH. • Since soil microorganisms requiring oxygen are needed for the conversion of S-containing compounds to SO4-, low temperatures and saturated soils reduce the amount of S that turfgrasses absorb.

Soil, tissue and irrigation water tests are valuable tools when developing fertilization programs and evaluating products for managing Ca, Mg and S in turfs. T

Turf Talk

Winterkill Understanding,

Preventing

and

Diagnosing It

By Bert McCarty, Ph.D., Clemson University, and Grady Miller, Ph.D., North Carolina State University

With

the arrival of freezing temperatures, many questions come across our desks concerning possible winter-kill to bermudagrass. “Can I spray a wetting agent to help remove surface moisture?” “Can I spray a filmforming spray to coat the turfgrasses to minimize cold damage?” The most common question, though, is, “Can I ‘ice’ my greens during this cold weather and protect them in much the same way citrus growers do in Florida?”

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Since little, if any, research or experience is available with these questions, let’s discuss what makes the most agronomic and plant physiological sense.

and energy to the cell. The major types of low-temperature injury are caused by the following factors.

What is winterkill?

When turfgrass plants remain in or under constant moisture following a thaw, the crowns of the plant can absorb high levels of water. If temperatures then drop below freezing, ice crystals form within the plant cell walls (or intracellularly), rupturing them and, thereby, killing tissues. Intracellular freezing injury is common in

Winterkill — low-temperature or cold-weather damage to plants — is a collective term used to describe several forms of injury. Death by cold is the consequence of damage to cell membranes and the breakdown of metabolism, primarily that involving nucleic acids, proteins

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Crown hydration

spring when plants become de-acclimated, especially in low, poorly drained areas.

Plants in winter, however, are more able to tolerate ice-crystal formation extracellularly, or between cells (in the intercellular spaces between protoplasts and the cell wall). As ice crystals form, the vapor pressure becomes lower than in the protoplasts; thus, water is drawn from within the cells. The protoplasts then shrink in size, and the concentration of dissolved substances (such as salt ions and organic acids) increase and become toxic via osmotic (or moisture-stress) damage. If temperatures remain low for a long period of time, cells may become dehydrated to a point where injury or death occurs.

Extracellular freezing is most common during dry, cold weather on exposed

sites, such as low-mowed, sand sites like golf greens and along hillsides exposed to winds. This occurs on turfgrass plants that are unprotected from wind and have limited soil moisture due to either drought conditions or low temperatures (frozen soil moisture). When temperatures rise above 32°F, turfgrass leaves lose water to the atmosphere due to the pressure gradient created from the low-humidity conditions. Consequently, turfgrasses dry out, causing desiccation of plant tissues and important plant proteins.

Direct low-temperature exposure When turfgrass plants are exposed directly to a rapid decrease in temperature below 23°F, the injury can be lethal, resulting in significant stand loss. Turfgrass leaves

initially appear water soaked, turn whitishbrown in color and then turn dark brown.

Low-temperature exposure causes plants to lose control of membrane function, resulting in solute leakage and, eventually, a water-soaked appearance. Damaged turfgrass tends to mat over the soil surface and emit a distinct putrid (rotten) odor.

Insufficiently hardened turfgrass plants with lush growth (or high moisture content) are more susceptible to direct low-temperature injury. Hydrated, non-hardy cells are more freeze susceptible than dehydrated, acclimated cells.

Turfgrass plants become “hardened” by being exposed to gradual decreases in temperature and frosts prior to a drastic, sudden drop in temperature or a hard freeze.

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Turf Talk This hardening process (often referred to as osmotic adjustment) involves an environmentally induced reduction (10% to 25%) in plant tissue water content and an accumulation of carbohydrate reserves.

This reduces ice formation inside cells, preserving cell walls. Although intercellular water freezes at 14°F to 23°F, concentrated solutes from osmotic adjustment may serve like antifreeze agents, lowering plant cell freezing to -4°F to -40°F, depending on the type and amount of solutes present.

Desiccation Desiccation, or “drying out,” is caused by winds in combination with low relative humidity. Desiccation occurs on turfgrass plants that are unprotected from wind and have limited soil moisture due to either drought conditions or low temperatures (frozen soil moisture). When tempera-

tures rise above 32°F, turfgrass leaves lose water to the atmosphere due to the pressure gradient created from the low humidity conditions. Consequently, the turfgrass plant’s crown, nodes and roots dry out.

Plant injury from desiccation can result in significant losses of turfgrass. It is important to maintain adequate soil moisture during these conditions, especially in spring when turfgrass roots are developing, to prevent desiccation from occurring. If the area is not continuously covered by snow or ice, artificial covers are often placed to help protect the turf from desiccation.

Traffic Vehicular and/or foot traffic that occurs on frozen or slush-covered turfgrass can play a significant role in low-temperature turfgrass injury. Frozen turfgrass crowns are easily damaged from traffic. Highly

trafficked areas are also prone to high soil compaction. Generally, compacted soils reduce turfgrass rooting and overall plant health, resulting in weak turf that is more susceptible to low-temperature injury.

Parameters that influence turfgrass susceptibility to low-temperature stress Several parameters influence the susceptibility of warm-season turfgrasses to lowtemperature stress; however, only a few are controllable by turfgrass managers.

Protecting turfgrass crowns from low temperatures is essential for survival, since the leaves, roots and lateral shoots regenerate from the crowns.

Temperature, and the frequency and rate of freezes and thaws, are factors outside a turfgrass manager’s control. On the other hand, though, several parameters within the control of turfgrass managers include: (1) degree of shading, (2) drainage, (3) fertility, (4) irrigation, (5) mowing, (6) use of covers, (7) soil cultivation, (8) thatch level, (9) traffic and (10) turfgrass selection.

Shade Exposure of turfgrass plants to sunlight is critical for several reasons, such as food production (photosynthesis) and hardening. Prolonged shade reduces carbohydrate levels in turfgrass plants, produces weaker plants and suppresses soil temperatures. Shaded areas also remain colder for prolonged periods due to minimal sunlight exposure, and they tend to maintain dew coverage longer than exposed, sunny areas, which can promote diseases.

In addition, competition from tree roots for nutrients and water also weakens turfgrass plants.

Bright sunlight exposure signals plants to harden off during fall. Turfgrass plants are “hardened” by being exposed to light frosts prior to a heavy freeze. Northern or northeastern-facing slopes receive less (or little) direct sunlight in the winter months and are more susceptible to lowtemperature stress.

Drainage Poor surface and/or subsurface drainage can result in direct low-temperature 22

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CON TINUED damage or injury to the crowns of turfgrass plants. The level of water or moisture content within turfgrass crowns is directly related to the degree of lowtemperature injury. The higher the moisture content of turfgrass crowns, the higher the susceptibility of low-temperature damage. Turfgrass plants growing in areas with poor drainage (surface or subsurface), high compaction or excessive irrigation are at a greater risk of low-temperature injury.

Irrigation Water is the primary requirement for turfgrass growth and survival. Irrigation should be utilized to “condition� the turfgrass. Several methods exist on scheduling irrigation; irrigation should be managed, however, according to the exact amount of water needed at any given time or any given condition. Just as excessive moisture may increase low-temperature damage or injury, the lack of moisture can be equally damaging. A certain amount of water or moisture is needed for crown tissues to survive low-temperature stress.

If a moisture deficiency occurs, crown tissues become desiccated and, thus, have less buffering capacity against temperature swings. Maintaining soil moisture at or slightly below field capacity and preventing standing water helps keep crown tissue properly hydrated.

Traffic Traffic (either vehicular or foot) can be very damaging to frozen turfgrass crowns, leading to the eventual death of plants. In addition, traffic leads to soil compaction that reduces soil oxygen levels (porosity) and water infiltration and percolation rates.

Traffic should be minimized or diverted from frozen turfgrass until the soil and turfgrass plants have completely thawed. Lightly syringing frozen turfgrass areas prior to allowing traffic will aid in reducing traffic injury.

Turfgrass selection Turfgrass species, and varieties or cultivars within a particular species, have varying degrees of low-temperature

Turf Talk Table 1. Relative low-temperature tolerances of selected bermudagrass from laboratory studies (Anderson, Taliaferro, and Martin 2002).

Fairways Vegetative

Seeded

Greens

Midlawn

16.9°F a

Yukon

18.3°F a

Tifgreen

20.3°F a

Quickstand

17.6°F ab

Guymon

18.7°F ab

Tifdwarf

20.3°F a

TifSport

19.0°F bc

Jackpot

20.7°F abc

TifEagle

21.2°F ab

Tifway

19.9°F cd

Mirage

21.0°F bc

Mini Verde

21.6°F bc

Baby

19.9°F cd

AZ Common

21.9°F c

MS Supreme

22.6°F cd

GN-1

21.3°F d

Floradwarf

23.2°F d

Champion

23.4°F d

tolerance (see Table 1). Generally, cultivars that possess inherently better lowtemperature tolerance exhibit a deepergrowing, denser rhizome network that, in turn, is better insulated. These rhizomes, then, are less exposed to low-temperature damage or injury.

Turf covers Turf covers may help protect turfgrass crowns from low winter temperatures and desiccation. When present, snow is probably the best insulator and should be allowed to remain as long as possible.

Artificial covers, which use an air layer to insulate the turf from extreme moisture and temperature conditions, are next best, followed by straw and other organic sources.

Strategies vary on the use of covers. A starting point is to use them continuously when the temperature drops below 25°F and is combined with desiccating winds.

In the absence of wind, if temperatures are expected to suddenly drop below 23°F, covers should be considered.

Icing greens The concept of icing greens during low temperatures is to provide a thin ice cover that would hopefully keep the soil temperatures around 32°F. This method is often performed in citrus groves during moderate freezes.

In citrus, the temperature has to be between 28°F and 32°F, and for no more than four hours, for this to effectively work. Lower temperatures or longer durations tend to reduce its effectiveness. Also, the water is constantly added (irrigated) lightly about every hour to take advantage of the slight heat released when water molecules turn into ice crystals.

As explained earlier, the major damage to turfgrass is when too little or too much moisture is in the plant during cold temperatures. Icing greens would probably work best for a one-time freeze. Since this is rarely the case, however, icing would melt during the day, saturating the soil and causing the plant crowns to excessively hydrate (imbibe). Then, if the freeze reoccurs that night, intracellular ice 24

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CON TINUED formation would possibly occur, cause cellular damage and eventual crown death.

Diagnosing low-temperature injury Turf managers should anticipate certain areas of turfgrass that may be more susceptible to low-temperature injury than other areas. Cultural factors that contribute to low-temperature injury and increased susceptibility include poor drainage, soil compaction, excessive thatch, reduced light intensity (shade), north- or northeastern-facing slopes, areas prone to winds (such as high spots and west-facing slopes), excessive fall nitrogen fertilization and low mowing heights.

If any of these conditions are present, or have occurred, and if low-temperature injury is suspected, use the following method to determine the severity of the potential damage.

1. Using a cup cutter, collect turfgrass plugs from suspected low-temperature damage areas.

2. Place or plant these plugs in a suitable container of native soil, with drainage holes.

3. Place the containers in a greenhouse, or in a room beneath a heat lamp or grow light, or as a last resort, in a southern-facing window.

4. Keep the turfgrass plugs adequately watered.

5. Watch for the turfgrass plugs to initiate growth and greening within 7 to 10 days.

6. Assess the amount of greening after plugs have been grown for two to three weeks. Suspected areas with less than 50% greening should be considered extensively damaged from low-temperature exposure and will probably require renovation. Lesser-damaged areas may recover with proper management practices and extra attention.

7. Repeat the above sampling procedure on a 14- to 21-day interval through the periods of potential cold-weather injury.

Another method to ascertain plant damage is to inspect the crowns of the plants. If they remain white and flaccid, damage has been avoided. However, if they appear brown, black, and collapsed, damage has occurred. T

Professional Matters

8 Ways

to Be Memorable at Networking Events

By Patricia Fripp, CSP, CPAE

If

you go to business events and no one remembers you afterward, what was the point in attending? Networking is an important part of building your business and developing good social contacts. However, such contacts only work if you make yourself memorable. Happily, this doesn’t mean you have to be bizarrely dressed or loud and boisterous.

My professional life is spent helping professionals speak more effectively to large and small groups. It never ceases to amaze me how many talented and welleducated people attend networking events, yet overlook their big chance to be memorable by developing a mini-presentation

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for audiences of one to five. All speaking is public speaking. Outside the privacy of your own home, you are speaking in public, no matter the size of your audience.

Here are some strategies that let you walk into a room with quiet self-assurance, confident that people will enjoy meeting you and will recall you afterwards.

1

Arrive looking your best.

If you have a hectic day before going to a business meeting, keep a change of clothes in your office or car so you can arrive unwrinkled.

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2

Wear your nametag.

We’re all more likely to retain information that we see and hear at the same time, so wear your nametag up on your right shoulder. That way, people can read it as they hear you say your name. Some women put their nametags down on their handbags or in the most inappropriate places. Put it where people are not afraid to look!

3

Develop a memorable signature.

Men can wear ties that people will comment on. An investment banker I know wears a money tie. At certain

Professional Matters meetings, industry events and the National Speakers Association, I stand out because I wear distinctive hats. When people are asked, “Do you know Patricia Fripp?” the usual reply is, “Yes, she’s the one who always wears the amazing hats.”

4

Develop an unforgettable greeting.

5

Greet everyone.

When you introduce yourself, don’t just say your name and job title.

Instead, start by describing the benefits of what you do for clients. A financial planner says, “I help rich people sleep at night.” One of my responses is, “I make conventions and sales meetings more exciting.” Almost invariably, my new acquaintance is compelled to ask, “How do you do that?” Immediately, I get to market myself: “You know how companies have meetings that are supposed to be stimulating, but they’re often dull and boring? Well, I present practical ideas in an entertaining way so people stay awake, have a good time and get the company’s message. My name is Patricia Fripp, and I’m a professional speaker.” People remember the vivid pictures you create in their minds more than the words you say.

Don’t ignore people you recognize if you’ve forgotten their name.

Smile and ask a provocative question like, “What is the most exciting thing that has happened to you since we last met?” or “What is your greatest recent success?” or “What are you most looking forward to?”

And never be afraid to say, “The last time we met, we had such a great conversation. Will you remind me what your name is?” Best-selling author Susan RoAne tells people, “Forgive me

for forgetting your name. Since I passed forty, it’s hard to remember my own.”

6

Overcome any shyness.

Much of the value of networking events can be lost if you allow yourself to focus on being unassuming or fundamentally shy. For many people, mingling with a room full of strangers can be an unpleasant or even scary experience.

Focus on the benefits of meeting exciting new contacts and learning new information, instead of worrying about any butterflies in your stomach.

Until you’ve gained confidence, a good way to do this is to offer to volunteer for a job that requires interacting with other attendees, such as volunteering to be a greeter. Greeters stand at the entrance, with a nametag denoting them as “Greeter.” They have a specific job: “How do you do? I’m Chris Carter. Welcome to the Chamber mixer. Is this your first event? Please find your nametag; the food is in the next room, and our program will start in thirty minutes.” Soon you will start feeling like the host of the party.

You’ve met many new people and will get cheery nods of recognition throughout the event, making it easy to stop and talk later. When you focus on helping others feel comfortable, you are not thinking about you being shy!

7

Travel with your own PR agent.

This is a powerful technique that maximizes your networking. Form a duo with a professional friend. When you arrive, alternately separate and come together, talking up each other’s strengths and expertise.

Suppose you and Fred are coworkers.

As Fred walks up, you say to the person

you’ve been talking to, “Jack, I’d like you to meet our sales manager, Fred. Fred has taught me nearly everything I know about sales and our product line. In the sixteen years at our company, there has never been a sales contest he has not won.”

Then, Fred can say, “Well, Jane is being very generous. It’s true; I’ve been with our company for sixteen years, and Jane has been here for only six months.

But, she has brought in more new business in that short time than any other person in the fifty-three year history of our firm. Thank goodness, I’m now the sales manager and can’t compete. She is going to overshadow the rest of us. Her ability to listen to clients’ needs gives her a competitive edge.”

When you do this, you’re saying about each other exactly what you would love your prospects to know, but modesty prevents you from telling them. Also, by saying something interesting, memorable or funny, you become objects of interest to your listeners. Imagine the next day when they go to work and talk about the networking event they attended.

They will repeat your funny lines, making themselves an object of interest. Any time you can make someone feel good about themselves, they are very likely to remember you!

8

Always send a note or brochure the next day to the people you have met.

Keep business cards, and make notes of what you said, for when you meet them at another event.

These are all positive, pleasant, easy ways to be memorable. Get the most out of your networking time and energy by making yourself worth remembering! T

About the Author Patricia Fripp, CSP, CPAE, keynote speaker, executive speech coach and sales-presentation skills expert, works with organizations and individuals who realize they gain a competitive edge through powerful, persuasive, presentation skills. She is past president of the National Speakers Association. To learn more about Patricia, contact her at www.fripp.com, (415) 753-6556 or pfripp@ix.netcom.com.

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Advertiser Index

Digital Marketp lace

BWI Companies.................................................................................. 12 www.bwicompanies.com

Scan the QR code: Download your favorite QR reader to your phone, and scan the code to learn more about these companies.

Covermaster, Inc................................................................................. 11 www.covermaster.com Direct Solutions.................................................................................. 11 www.aatdirectsolutions.com Erickson Turf Services......................................................................... 30 www.facebook.com/EricksonTurfServicesLLC Helena Chemical................................................................................. 13 www.helenachemical.com Jackson Sand...................................................................................... 13 www.jacksonsand.com John Deere Landscapes...................................................................... 16 www.johndeerelandscapes.com JRM, Inc.............................................................................................. 29 www.jrmonline.com Kesmac Inc............................................................................................ 3 www.kesmac.com KWMI / K & W Products, Inc.............................................................. 5 www.kwmiequipment.com Leading Edge Communications.................................. Inside Back Cover www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com Mid Tenn Turf, Inc........................................................................ 18, 30 www.midtennturf.com Modern Turf, Inc................................................................................. 17 www.modernturf.com NewLife Turf, Inc................................................................................ 27 www.newlifeturf.com ProSolutions, LLC................................................................................ 17 www.ourprosolutions.com RD Murphy, LLC.................................................................................. 23 www.rdmurphy.com Select Source...................................................................................... 25 www.selectsourcellc.net Sigma Organics, Inc............................................................................ 18 www.sigmaturf.com Smith Seed Services........................................................................... 30 www.smithseed.com Smith Turf & Irrigation.......................................................... Back Cover www.smithturf.com Sur-Line Turf, Inc........................................................ Inside Back Cover www.surlineturf.com The Pond Lady....................................................................................... 5 www.thepondlady.com The Turfgrass Group........................................................................... 19 www.theturfgrassgroup.com Tri-Turf Sod Farms.............................................................................. 24 www.trifurfsod.com Turf Mountain Sod.............................................................................. 25 www.turfmountain.com Turf Pride, LLC..................................................................................... 23 www.turfprideusa.com/info.html Turfgrass of Tennessee...................................................................... 22 Winstead Turf Farms.................................................Inside Front Cover www.winsteadturffarms.com 30

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 Š2013 by the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. Tennessee Turfgrass is published bimonthly. 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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