Tennessee Turfgrass - April / May 2017

APRIL/MAY 2017

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

Turfgrass Management in the Shade Annual Bluegrass Control in Warm-Season Sod Production Diagnosing Nutrient Deficiencies in Ornamental Plants

Sustainable

Nutrition for Sports Fields

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

12

APRIL/MAY 2017

FEATURED ARTICLES

12 21 27 34

Cover Story — Sustainable Nutrition for Sports Fields Turf Talk — Turfgrass Management in the Shade Applied Research — Annual Bluegrass Control in Warm-Season Sod Production Landscape Corner — Diagnosing Nutrient Deficiencies in Ornamental Plants

21

DEPARTMENTS

4

From the TTA President, Theo Lankford

6

From the TVSTMA President, Connor Schutzman

8

TTA Membership Application

9

News from the TGCSA

10

Index of Advertisers

36

UT Turf Team

37

Calendar of Events

38

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS APRIL/MAY 2017

27

NEWS THE FROM FROMTTA THEPRESIDENT TTA

Theo Lankford

Early Growing Season?

An

Start to the

how time is flying by! It seems like it was just yesterday when we were all standing in the halls at the Conference and Tradeshow, swapping stories and networking. Thank you to everyone who has called or emailed with compliments and suggestions for future conferences. Keep the suggestions and ideas coming; this is your association, and the TTA board of directors strives to meet the needs of all members.

I would like to congratulate long-time TTA member Joe Kennedy on his induction into the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame.

Joe is only the second superintendent to be inducted; preceding him is another long-time TTA member David Stone, who was inducted in 2006. Joe is more than deserving and will always be viewed as a pillar in the Tennessee turfgrass family.

I have recently sold my home and am staying in a much smaller, temporary location until my new home is ready to move into in a few weeks. Since my family has downsized homes, we’ve had to downsize our wardrobe. Typically, this wouldn’t be an issue; in winter, you wear winter clothes, and then when spring comes, you would simply switch out the winter attire for spring attire. Well, not this year. As I write this letter on February 22, it is expected to

My,

ION of THE MISS

get as warm as 75 degrees today, with tomorrow near 80 degrees.

I think a little of this same logic goes into how we plan to care for our turfgrasses. From one aspect, this warm spell is great for our cool-season grasses, but it’s also great for the spring pests and weeds that we may not have been quite prepared for.

This is a perfect time to put those contacts you made at back in January to use — see what others are doing to cope with the unexpected, and plan for the weeks ahead.

The TTA board of directors will be putting in some overtime in the coming weeks to put our heads together to create new ways to make the TTA a more beneficial association for everyone.

Topics we will cover are fundraising, member involvement and education. Don’t forget about the TTA endowment; every donation makes a difference, no matter how big or small the amount is. For more information on how to make a donation, visit ttaonline.org.

Happy spring, or winter, or whatever season we are in!

Remember — DOERs DO!

Theo Lankford 2016–2017 TTA President

the TE NN ESSEE TUR FG RA SS A S S O C I AT I

To promote the turfgrass industry through education, scholarship and research.

6

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS APRIL/MAY 2017 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org

ON

FROM THE TVSTMA PRESIDENT

Connor Schutzman

Welcome to SPRING! hope everyone who attended the February 22 meeting at RichEllen Park in Clarksville enjoyed themselves, had a chance to catch up with colleagues and learned something. It was a great event hosted by Montgomery County Parks and Recreation. I would like to thank Joe Rodocker and all the individuals who had a hand in putting this event together, including our sponsors. It would not have been such a success without all of their involvement! I would also like to thank the coaches at Austin Peay University for their hospitality while touring the football, soccer and softball complexes!

As we are well into the spring season, I hope everyone survived and enjoyed the much-warmer winter temperatures. The mild winter made it quite interesting in timing this year’s preemergence applications. I hope that you were successful in your timing and that weeds are now a thing of the past at your facility.

As families and teams awake from their hibernation, they are looking for fields to rent and utilize. Many of these individuals are unaware of the challenges that the spring and Mother Nature pose. Rain, early spring frosts and diseases are just a few. I hope the spring, up to this point, has treated you and your facility with kindness and that it has given you every opportunity to provide a safe and aesthetically pleasing field to your patrons.

The TVSTMA board of directors continues to discuss ideas on ways to enhance the TVSTMA experience as a whole. As always, please feel free to contact any of the board members with suggestions on future locations for meetings or with ideas on how we can improve our organization and increase members.

Good luck to everyone as we begin to transition into the summer months in the transition zone!

I

Connor Schutzman, CSFM 2017 TVSTMA President

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) 465-6339 info@ttaonline.org 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 Theo Lankford Kormac, LLC (615) 519-2701 Vice President Jason Pooler Tri-Turf Sod Farms, Inc. (731) 642-3092 Secretary/Treasurer Doug Ward Belle Meade C.C. (615) 292-6752 Past President Paul Carter, CGCS Bear Trace at Harrison Bay (423) 344-6374 Executive Director Melissa Martin Tennessee Turfgrass Assn.

(615) 465-6339 TTA 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ryan Blair Cal Hill Joe Hill Jeff Kuhns Timothy Long Mickey Lovett Bill Marbet Richard Pavlasek Jason Sanderson Chris Sykes Paul Webb Scott Wicker

8

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS APRIL/MAY 2017 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org

TTA ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Bill Blackburn Dr. Jim Brosnan Dr. Brandon Horvath Lynn Ray Jeff Rumph, CGCS Dr. Tom Samples Dr. John Sorochan Dr. Wes Totten

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSN. ———— MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION ———— Membership applications can be submitted at any time during the year.

For more information, please contact the TTA Office at (615) 465-6339 or fax your application form to (615) 790-8600.

Please print or type the following information as you would like it to appear in the annual directory.

Name ____________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________

Facility ___________________________________________

Type of Business _______________________________________

Address ____________________________________________________________

P.O. Box ___________________________

City ______________________________________________

State __________

Zip ________________________________

Telephone (_____) __________________________________

Fax (_____) ___________________________________________

Email Address ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Additional individuals from same facility requesting membership: Name _____________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________

Name _____________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________

Name _____________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________

Name _____________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________

Name _____________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________

Name _____________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________

Name _____________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________

Membership Categories: Regular Membership......................................................................................................................................

$50.00

Student Membership......................................................................................................................................

$10.00

Retired Membership.......................................................................................................................................

No Dues

Payable Dues: # of Regular Memberships .......................................................................................................... ______

x $50.00 = $ _____________

# of Student Memberships .......................................................................................................... ______

x $10.00 = $ _____________

TOTAL .............................................................................................................................................. ______

$ _____________

Please make check payable to: Tennessee Turfgrass Association Please send check and completed form to:

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

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION

9

NEWS FROM THE TGCSA

2017 MAGCSA AND MTGCSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Memphis Area Golf Course Superintendents Association and the Middle Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association have announced the following officers and directors.

MAGCSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Casey Nerren Memphis National Golf Club Collierville, TN

VICE PRESIDENT Dan Brabec Stonebridge Country Club Lakeland, TN

SECRETARY/ TREASURER David Johnson Kirkwood National Golf Club Millington, TN

BOARD MEMBER JD Boyce Jackson Country Club Jackson, TN

BOARD MEMBER David Rhea Howard Fertilizer Lexington, TN

MTGCSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Dan Johnson Old Hickory Country Club Nashville, TN

VICE PRESIDENT Brad Marcy Indian Hills Golf Course Murfreesboro, TN

TREASURER Whitt Davis The Grove College Grove, TN

SECRETARY Joe Galbreth Sigma Organics, Inc. Nashville, TN

PAST PRESIDENT Matthew Powell Pebblebrook Golf Club Springfield, TN

MEMBERSHIP CHAIR Craig Ketelson Greenville Turf and Tractor Murfreesboro, TN

FUND RAISER CHAIR Thurston Farrar Hideaway at Arrington Arrington, TN

COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Tyler Ingram Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club Hendersonville, TN

ASSISTANTS REPRESENTATIVE David Melvin Hillwood Country Club Nashville, TN 10

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS APRIL/MAY 2017 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org

COVER STORY

Sustainable Nutrition FOR SPORTS FIELDS

12

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS APRIL/MAY 2017 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org

By Dan Strunk, Ph.D., Research Associate I, The University of Tennessee

urfgrass fertility programs have been traditionally developed using soil-test recommendations. One of the most widely used concepts to base recommendations has been the sufficiency level of available nutrient (SLAN), but due to the nature of SLAN, the accuracy of fertility recommendations depends greatly on crop-driven data for specific soil types.

Unfortunately, most of the data for SLAN has been derived from agricultural and horticultural crops outside of turf. The lack of turfgrass data for SLAN has led to fertilizer recommendations beyond the needs of turf and resulted in excessive applications of fertilizer and wasted time and money.

Instead of SLAN, turfgrass managers should consider using the newly developed minimum levels of sustainable nutrition (MLSN) guidelines developed by Drs. Larry Stowell and Wendy Gelernter of Pace Turf and Dr. Micah Woods of the Asian Turfgrass Center. The MLSN guidelines were developed based on soil testing of “good performing” turf over numerous soil types and species. The soils used to develop the MLSN were limited to soils with low cation exchange capacity and would normally require added fertility under the traditional concept of SLAN (Woods et al., 2016).

The MLSN guidelines provide minimum levels of phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S) needed to maintain healthy soil and, combined with growth potential modelling, make creating a fertility program straightforward and simple (Table 1).

The steps to implementing the MLSN guidelines are: 1. Determine yearly nitrogen fertility needs.

2. Calculate the turf’s nutrient harvest for P, K, Ca, Mg and S.

T

COVER STORY 3. Test the soil for nutrient levels.

4. Compare the soil-test results to MLSN guidelines and nutrient harvest.

Figure 1. Growth-potential curves can be used to predict warm-season turfgrass growth.

Step 1. Determine yearly nitrogen fertility needs.

Figure 2. Growth-potential curves can be used to predict cool-season turfgrass growth.

Table 1. The minimum levels of sustainable nutrition (MLSN) guidelines compared to the traditional sufficiency level of available nutrient (SLAN) concept.

SLANx

MLSNy

ppmz

lbs./1,000 ft2

ppm

lbs./1,000 ft2

Phosphorus (P)

>50

>2.5

21

1.1

Potassium (K)

>110

>5.5

37

1.9

Calcium (Ca)

>750

>37.5

331

16.6

Nutrient

Magnesium (Mg)

>140

>7

47

2.4

Sulfur (S)

15–40

0.75–2

7

0.4

x Values for the sufficiency level of available nutrient (SLAN) concept were adapted from Carrow et al., 2004. y The minimum levels of sustainable nutrition (MLSN) guidelines were adapted from Woods et al., 2016. z To convert ppm to lbs./1,000 ft2, multiply by 0.05.

14

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS APRIL/MAY 2017 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org

With the exception of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, nitrogen is needed in the greatest abundance for plant growth, and it comprises the majority of a fertility program. In fact, after other nutrient deficiencies are corrected, all fertilizer applications should be limited to nitrogen.

Deciding on a nitrogen fertility rate can be difficult, since the numerous recommendations provided for turf include ranges for each turfgrass species and expected usage. Those recommendations usually also include the statement “per active growing month” or equivalent. The problem with these recommendations is twofold: (1) how do you know which end of the recommended range you should use, and (2) what constitutes an active growing month?

Choosing the correct nitrogen rate in a given range depends on a variety of characteristics. For example, athletic fields that receive high use should favor nitrogen fertility rates on the high end of a recommended range for the particular species being grown. Other considerations should be given to soil type, water availability, mowing height and other maintenance procedures, since all have implications in increasing or decreasing nitrogen rates.

Determining an active growing month for a particular species can be easily accomplished by simply knowing the optimum growing temperatures for cooland warm-season grasses. However, there are times during the year such as spring and fall that can make determining the need for nitrogen fertility difficult, especially in the transition zone.

An easy way to determine when and how much nitrogen fertility to apply is to calculate growth potential. Developed by Drs. Gelernter and Stowell of Pace Turf, growth-potential models predict the growth of warm-season and cool-season turfgrasses based on comparing current temperatures to optimum temperatures (Gelernter and Stowell, 2005). The models are calculated using the equation that follows:

GP = growth potential e = 2.71828 t = average monthly temperature in °F tO = 68°F for cool season; 88°F for warm season sd = 10 for cool season; 12 for warm season

Growth potential models can be created for every geographical location using average monthly temperatures (Figures 1 and 2). Using the 30-year average for monthly temperatures, growth potential models provide fairly accurate estimations of expected turfgrass growth (Tables 2, 3 and 4). Values from the models can be used to calculate the amount of nitrogen to apply and when to apply it, by multiplying the chosen nitrogen rate by growth potential (Woods, 2014).

For example, a bermudagrass athletic field in Knoxville during the month of July should receive 1.1 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 ft2 if the ideal rate for nitrogen is 1.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 ft2 per active growing month (Table 5). Based on the monthly nitrogen applications determined using growth potential, yearly nitrogen amounts can be calculated for fertilizer purchasing and to predict the usage of other important nutrients.

Step 2. Calculate the nutrient harvest based on the nitrogen rate.

Knowing the yearly amount of nitrogen being applied to a turfgrass system allows for the calculation of the required amounts of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur (Kussow et al., 2012; Woods, 2014). Based on tissue testing of turfgrass leaves, the proportion of P, K, Ca, Mg and S is typically 0.5, 0.125, 0.125, 0.05 and 0.05, respectively (Woods, 2014).

To determine the amount of each nutrient needed, multiply the yearly nitrogen rate by the proportion of the nutrient.

For example, if the yearly nitrogen rate for the bermudagrass grown in Knoxville is 4.4 pounds per 1,000 ft2, it would mean that the plant would use 0.6 pounds of P per 1,000 ft2 (Table 6). In MLSN terms, this would be considered plant nutrient harvest.

COVER STORY Step 3. Test the soil for nutrient levels.

Table 2. Average monthly temperatures (°F) for select cities in Tennessee are used to calculate turfgrass growth potential.

Month January

Bristol 35.2

Knoxville 38.2

Chattanooga 40.5

Nashville 37.7

Memphis 41.2

February

39

42.4

44.4

41.7

45.5

March

46.7

50.3

52.2

50

54

April

55.2

58.8

60.5

59

62.9

May

63.5

67.2

68.6

67.5

71.7

June

71.5

75

76.5

75.7

79.6

July

74.6

78.4

80

79.4

82.7

August

73.8

77.8

79.4

78.7

82

September

67.1

71.1

72.5

71.5

75.2

October

56.3

59.9

61.5

60.3

64.1

November

46.6

49.7

51.2

49.8

53.2

December

37.8

40.8

42.6

40.4

43.6

Step 4. Compare MLSN guidelines and nutrient harvest to the soil-test results.

Table 3. Growth-potential values calculated from average monthly temperatures for cool-season turfgrass growth in select cities in Tennessee. Larger values indicate greater potential for growth.

Month January February March April May June July August September October November December

Bristol 0 0 0.1 0.4 0.9 0.9 0.8 0.9 1.0 0.5 0.1 0

Knoxville 0 0 0.2 0.7 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.6 1.0 0.7 0.2 0

Chattanooga 0 0.1 0.3 0.8 1.0 0.7 0.5 0.5 0.9 0.8 0.2 0

Nashville 0 0 0.2 0.7 1.0 0.7 0.5 0.6 0.9 0.7 0.2 0

Memphis 0 0.1 0.4 0.9 0.9 0.5 0.3 0.4 0.8 0.9 0.3 0.1

Table 4. Growth-potential values calculated from average monthly temperatures for warm-season turfgrass growth in select cities in Tennessee. Larger values indicate greater potential for growth.

Month January February March April May June July August September October November December

16

Bristol 0

Knoxville 0

Chattanooga 0

Nashville 0

Memphis 0

0 0 0 0.1 0.4 0.5 0.5 0.2 0 0 0

0 0 0.1 0.2 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.4 0.1 0 0

0 0 0.1 0.3 0.6 0.8 0.8 0.4 0.1 0 0

0 0 0.1 0.2 0.6 0.8 0.7 0.4 0.1 0 0

0 0 0.1 0.4 0.8 0.9 0.9 0.6 0.1 0 0

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS APRIL/MAY 2017 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org

Proper soil collection for testing will increase the usefulness of the testing report.

Collect 15 to 20 soil subsamples using a probe or similar to a depth of approximately 4" to 6" at random for each different area.

If you’re conducting soil testing for multiple fields, sample each field separately. Remove turf and thatch from each subsample, and mix subsamples to create a composite for an entire field. If subsamples have a mat layer from consistent topdressing, include it in the composite sample as well.

Allow the soil to air dry before sending to a reputable lab. Be sure to select a soiltesting lab that uses Mehlich 3 extraction.

Before applying the MLSN guidelines to the soil-test results, check that the pH of the soil is in the optimum range (5.5 to 8.5).

Soils with values outside of the optimum pH range will need to be corrected before using the MLSN guidelines, since soil pH can significantly alter nutrient availability.

To determine if applications of P, K, Ca, Mg and S are necessary, the amount of nutrients found in the soil must be compared to the predicted amount the turf will harvest and the total amount that should remain in the soil according to the MLSN guidelines. For instance, the MLSN guidelines indicate that the soil should always maintain a level of K of 37 ppm or 1.9 pounds of K per 1,000 ft2 (convert ppm to pounds per 1,000 ft2 by multiplying 0.05).

In the case of bermudagrass in Knoxville receiving 4.4 pounds of N per 1,000 ft2 per year, it would be expected to harvest 2.1 pounds of K per 1,000 ft2 per year (Table 7). In total, the soil for the bermudagrass would need to contain at least 4.1 pounds of K per 1,000 ft2 (76 ppm) to adhere to the MLSN guidelines and provide the turf with sufficient K for growth.

In the same example, the minimum amount of P in the soil to adhere to MLSN guidelines and sustain turf growth would need to be 1.7 pounds of P per 1,000 ft2 (MLSN = 1.1, harvest = 0.6; 32 ppm).

COVER STORY Table 5. Nitrogen fertilizer applications for a bermudagrass athletic field in Knoxville calculated from growth-potential models and an ideal nitrogen rate of 1.5 pounds per 1,000 ft2 per active growing month.

January

Growth potential (0–1) 0

Nitrogen application (lbs./1,000 ft2)z 0

February

0

0

March

0

0

April

0.1

0.2

May

0.2

0.3

June

0.6

0.9

July

0.7

1.1

August

0.7

1.1

September

0.4

0.6

October

Month

0.1

0.2

November

0

0

December

0

0

Considerations for using MLSN guidelines

4.4

Yearly total z

To calculate nitrogen applications based on growth potential modeling, multiply growth potential value by nitrogen rate for ideal growing conditions.

Table 6. Yearly nutrient harvest predicted for a bermudagrass athletic field in Knoxville receiving 4.4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 ft2 per year.

Nutrient Nitrogen

Proportion to nitrogen 1

Nutrient harvest (lbs./1,000 ft2)z 4.4

0.125

0.6

Phosphorus

0.5

2.2

Calcium

0.125

0.6

Magnesium

0.05

0.2

Sulfur

0.05

0.2

Potassium

z

To calculate nutrient harvest, multiply the yearly nitrogen rate by the respective proportion to nitrogen for each nutrient.

Table 7. Fertilizer requirements for a bermudagrass athletic field in Knoxville, calculated based on a soil test of a silt-loam soil at the Center for Athletic Field Safety using growth-potential modeling and MLSN guidelines.

Nutrient

z

18

Soil test (lbs./M-1)

MLSN (lbs./M-1)

Nutrient harvest (lbs./M-1)

Fertilizer needed (lbs./M-1)z

Phosphorus

2.8

1.1

0.6

- 1.1

Potassium

21

1.9

2.2

- 16.9

Calcium

75.2

16.6

0.6

- 58.0

Magnesium

13.2

2.4

0.2

- 10.6

Sulfur

0.5

0.4

0.2

+ 0.1

Fertilizer needed is calculated by subtracting the MLSN requirement and nutrient harvest from soil-testing results. Negative values indicate no additional nutrient are needed.

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If the amounts of nutrients contained in soil are less than the combined minimum requirement and nutrient harvest, additional nutrients are required through fertilizer application.

While the MLSN guidelines and growthpotential models are data driven specifically to turfgrass systems, seasonal variability and other external factors can have a significant effect on the fertility needs of the turf. This past fall serves as a great example of seasonal variability affecting turfgrass growth and fertility needs. With the high temperatures experienced late in the year, additional nitrogen was needed for turf to sustain healthy growth. The extra nitrogen also increased the usage of the other nutrients.

Ideally, the MLSN guidelines and growth-potential models should provide a basis on which to develop a fertility program, but the rates of fertilizer calculated will likely be close to the minimum needed by the turf. It is the job of the field manager to determine if the amount of nutrients appears to be sufficient through monitoring of growth, color and the ability of the turf to recover from traffic and wear.

If the turf is not performing as well as it should, fertility rates should be adjusted accordingly. It is always possible to add nutrients to the turfgrass system, but it is virtually impossible to remove nutrients after they’ve been applied.

Literature cited Carrow, R.N., L.J. Stowell, W.D. Gelernter, S. Davis, R.R. Duncan, and J. Skorulski.

2004. Clarifying soil testing: III. SLAN sufficiency ranges and recommendations.

Golf Course Management 72(1): 194-198.

Kussow, W.R., D.J. Soldat, W.C. Dreuser, and S.M. Houlihan. 2012. Evidence, regulation, and consequences of nitrogendriven nutrient demand by turfgrass.

Online. ISRN Agronomy Vol. 2012, Article ID 359284. Doi:10.5402/2012/359284

Gelernter, W.D. and L.J. Stowell. 2005.

Improved overseeding programs: 1. The role of weather. Golf Course Management 73(3): 108-113.

Woods, M.S., L.J. Stowell, and W.D. Gelernter. 2016. Minimum soil nutrient guidelines for turfgrass developed from Mehlich 3 soil test results. Online. Peer J. June 20: 1-11. Doi: 10.7287/peerj. preprints.2144v1 Woods, M.S., L. Stowell, and W. Gelernter.

2014. Just what the grass requires: Using minimum levels for sustainable nutrition.

Online. Golf Course Management. January 82(1): 132-138. http://gcmdigital.gcsaa. org/i/234582/142 Woods, M.S. 2013. Using temperature to predict turfgrass growth potential (GP) and to estimate turfgrass nitrogen use. Online.

Viridescent – The Asian Turfgrass Center Blog. http://www.files.asianturfgrass. com/201306_growth_potential.pdf

TURF TALK

TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT IN THE

By John Sorochan, Ph.D., Plant Sciences Department, University of Tennessee

it comes to managing turfgrass in shade, an understanding of the actual causes of shade is important. Shade is simply the lack of necessary light for optimal turfgrass growth. Reduced light, or shade, results in reduced photosynthesis, in turn causing turfgrass stress.

A simple definition for photosynthesis is light energy plus carbon dioxide plus water yielding chemical energy (carbohydrates) plus oxygen plus water. Light (sunlight) is the ultimate source of most terrestrial life on earth. The sun provides light in abundance and does not appear to be a limiting factor for most turfgrass growth. However, changes in light, either

When

quantity or quality, has dramatic effects on plants, thereby making it a limiting resource.

About light The components of light include light quality and quantity.

Quality Light quality is determined by the wavelengths of light (measured in nanometers, nm) and range from very short (cosmic or x-rays) to long (radio) waves lengths.

Turfgrasses, like all plants, require visible light form 380 to 700 nm in order for photosynthesis to occur. This visible light spectrum (380 to 700 nm) is known as photosynthetically active radiation (PAR).

Within PAR are the blue and red light wavelengths, which are important components for turfgrass growth and development. Blue light (≈ 380 to 500 nm) is important for photosynthesis and is the stimulus for short, sturdy growth.

Conversely red light (≈ 600 to 700 nm) is also important for photosynthesis and is the stimulus for turfgrass cell elongation. Green light typically is not important for photosynthesis and is reflected, giving the turf is green color.

Light quantity is the actual particles (photons) of light providing the energy necessary for photosynthesis to occur.

Light quantity (energy) is the most important light component for photosynthesis. The shorter the wavelength, the

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION

21

TURF TALK more energy provided; thus, blue light is more important for photosynthesis than red light.

Quantity Variations in light quantity occur with the time of year, latitude, time of day, atmospheric screening and topography.

During the summer, light quantity is greatest; while, winter provides the least light energy. Depending on the time of year and latitude, the light quantity can vary greatly. In the northern hemisphere, the further north you go during he summer, the longer the days are and greater the light quantity. Between 12:00 and 14:00, the light energy is most abundant and is significantly less during the time of day prior to and after the time when the sun is at it solar zenith.

Atmospheric screening reduces light quantity and is caused by anything that has a potential to interfere with the light

22

wavelengths. Clouds, pollution, humidity and even trees are some examples of atmospheric screening that occurs.

In addition to atmospheric screening, topography also influences light quantity.

North- versus south-facing slopes is an example of how topography can limit the turfs exposure to light energy.

Light and turf Dr. James Beard estimated that over 25% of all managed turf is under some sort of shade stress. Thus, shade stress likely occurs anywhere turfgrass is managed, which can include golf courses, athletic fields and home lawns, to name a few.

Shade (reduced light) is a reduction in both light quantity and quality. A shade situation means not enough light energy is being supplied to the turf for efficient photosynthesis to occur. Reduced photosynthesis results in reduced carbohydrate synthesis and, in turn,

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causes turfgrass-stress conditions, resulting in insufficient growth and development.

Tree shade greatly reduces both blue and red light quality, with the blue light being affected the greatest. As a result, the short, sturdy stimulus for turfgrass growth is reduced, and turfgrasses elongate from the more abundant red light stimulus, and they continue to lack the necessary light energy important for optimal photosynthesis to occur.

Morphological changes that occur as a result of shade stress include decreased leaf thickness, decreased density, decreased tillering (rhizome and/or stolon growth), decreased root-to-shoot ratio and increased leaf height and elongation.

Turfgrass physiological responses to shade include reduced carbohydrate reserves, reduced transpiration,reduced respiration, reduced cuticle thickness and increased succulence.

Improving the light conditions Proper implementation of cultural practices can help when managing turfgrass grown under shade-stress conditions. ✔ Because root depth is limited as a result of shade, a light and more frequent irrigation schedule should be used. However, avoid over watering!

Irrigate only as needed to maintain adequate soil moisture for the turfgrass. ✔ Also, avoid excess nitrogen. Too much nitrogen will stimulate increased shoot growth; thus, making the turfgrass plant more stressed. A good rule of thumb is to fertilize at half the recommended rate for nitrogen requirements for the turfgrass species being grown.

1.6

P = 0.05

1.4

Pn (µmol m-2 s -1)

Environmental conditions that typically accompany shade stress situations include increased relative humidity, more moderated temperatures, restricted air movement and potential competition for water and nutrients from tree roots.

1.2 1 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0

PGR FIGURE

1

Stier and Rogers, 2001

Effect of Trinexapac Ethyl (PGR) on photosynthesis (Pn) efficiency in reduced light conditions (3.5 mols PAR day-1), November 1996. East Lansing, MI.

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION

23

TURF TALK ✔ If possible, increase the mowing height to enable more surface area for light absorption. Unfortunately, for a shaded putting green, increasing the mowing height is often not possible because of the increased demands for faster putting surfaces. ✔ Turfgrasses under shade stress conditions have an increased susceptibility to fungal turfgrass diseases. Therefore, if possible, fungicide applications are often necessary for turfgrass survival. ✔ Limit or redirect traffic. Limiting traffic is difficult, particularly on putting greens. However, any reduction in wear will help alleviate added stresses to the turf already under shade stress conditions. ✔ Prune tree canopies and roots. Trees are usually the major cause for shade problems, especially in golf course situations. Unfortunately, trees are also an important component to the golf course landscape; trees add depth and aesthetic value to complement any golf course design. However, trees can also grow to exceed their original benefit and cause problems such as turfgrass-shade stress. If the tree causing the shade cannot be removed, pruning both the limbs and roots will help reduce some of the problems being caused to the turf. Pruning the limbs will allow for more light to penetrate to the turf surface, and root pruning will lesson the competition for nutrients and water. ✔ Apply plant growth regulators (PGRs).

Several research studies have been conducted to show the benefits of using plant growth regulators on turf under shade-stress conditions. The use of PGRs such as Trinexapac Ethyl (Primo) have shown to limit shoot elongation and improve photosynthetic efficiency (Figure 1.). ✔ Increase morning light. When at all possible, any attempts to provide morning light will greatly help with dealing with shade stress conditions.

Morning light is when cool-season photosynthesis is at is greatest; thus, enabling for maximum photosynthetic efficiency.

24

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APPLIED RESEARCH

ANNUAL BLUEGRASS CONTROL IN WARM-SEA SON SO D PRODUCTION

By Jay McCurdy, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Turfgrass Extension Specialist, Mississippi State University

A

nnual bluegrass (Poa annua) is a troublesome annual weed in both warm-and cool-season grass scenarios, whether home lawns, sports fields, golf courses or sod farms.

However, sod production practices tend to promote annual bluegrass as a weed with limited chemical-control options.

Cultural practices such as contaminated

sprigging stock, barren soil repeatedly left fallow and contaminated harvesting and maintenance equipment are just a few of the predominant causes for annual bluegrass proliferation on sod farms.

Annual bluegrass emerges from seed in late summer and early fall when soil temperatures drop below approximately 70°F. Seeds are produced throughout

the following winter, spring and early summer months. Preventing annual bluegrass emergence on sod farms requires an integrated approach. Cultural practices, such as using clean foundation sprigs and limiting the introduction and spread of seeds on equipment, are important, but they are not guarantees for success.

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27

APPLIED RESEARCH TABLE

1

Mode of action and classification of common herbicides for annual bluegrass control. Site of action is listed according to the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) and the Herbicide Resistance Action Committee (HRAC).

TIMING

MODE OF ACTION

WSSA GROUP

HRAC COMMON GROUP NAME

TRADE NAME

Pre

Mitotic inhibition

3

K1

dithiopyr

Dimension

Pre

Cellulose synthesis inhibition

29

L

indaziflam

Specticle

Pre

Very long chain fatty acid synthesis inhibition

15

K3

metolachlor

Pennant Magnum

Pre

Protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibition

3

K1

oryzalin

Surflan

Pre

Protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibition

14

E

oxadiazon

Ronstar

Pre

Mitotic inhibition

3

K1

pendimethalin

Pendulum

Pre

Mitotic inhibition

3

K1

prodiamine

Barricade

Pre

Mitotic inhibition

3

K1

trifluralin

Barricade

Pre/Post

Photosystem II inhibition

5

C1

atrazine

Aatrex

Pre/Post

Protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibition

14

E

flumioxazin

SureGuard

Pre/Post

Mitotic inhibition

3

Kerb

Photosystem II inhibition

5

K1 C1

pronamide

Pre/Post

simazine

Princep

Post Selective

Acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibition

2

B

foramsulfuron

Revolver

Post Selective

Acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibition

2

B

rimsulfuron+ metsulfuron

Negate

Post Selective

Acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibition

2

B

rimsulfuron

TranXit

Post Selective

Acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibition

2

B

trifloxysulfuron

Monument

Post Non-selective

Enolpyruvyl shikimate-3 phosphate (EPSP) synthase inhibition

9

G

glyphosate

Roundup

Post Non-selective

Glutamine synthetase inhibition

10

H

glufosinate

Finale

Due to the size of most sod farms, successful control requires a combined approach with cultural methods plus herbicides. Herbicides can be broken into three categories: preemergence, postemergence and those with both preemergence and postemergence activity (Table 1). Preemergence herbicides are applied prior to germination of annual bluegrass. Dates for annual bluegrass germination range considerably from year to year; however, standard preemergence applications in the Mid28

South are typically made in August through October. In most cases, it is better to apply early rather than late. Late applications should contain a preemergence in combination with a postemergence or should be a product with both preemergence and postemergence activity.

Postemergence herbicide applications are applied when weather cooperates in the fall through early spring. This approach may be expensive and jeopardize recovery from winter dormancy.

Because these herbicides are applied

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after emergence of weed seedlings (postemergence), they control only emerged weeds. If using selective herbicides (herbicides safe to the sod), applications can be made that effectively control bluegrass plants prior to seed production.

Dormant winter applications of nonselective herbicides (herbicides like glyphosate that may injure sod) should be made only when turfgrass is fully dormant. This approach often fails to prevent seed dispersal and contamination of the following year’s crop.

This article attempts to review common sod-production herbicide options in order that the sod producer may make appropriate choices to limit emergence and success of annual bluegrass.

Fundamental considerations for sod producers • Herbicide selection for warm- and coolseason sod production differs. For more information about herbicide safety, consult with your state Extension specialist.

• Always read and follow label directions.

Some products exclude use within sod production entirely. Others have restrictions on when sod can be harvested after their use.

• All preemergence herbicides inhibit root growth in some form or fashion, which is critical to sod production.

Some are safer than others, but safety is rate dependent. Commercial products typically have lower labeled rates intended for sprigged scenarios or where sod is being regrown after harvest.

• The effects of fall preemergence herbicides on sod tensile strength are not well understood, nor has the long list of preemergence herbicides been researched extensively. Spring applications may be more likely than fall applications to inhibit the most opportune timing for warm-season sod growth, ultimately leading to decreased sod strength. However, caution should be used any time that preemergence herbicides are applied to very young sprigs, plugs or established sod.

• Preemergence herbicides typically lack postemergence control; however, there are exceptions. Pre/post herbicides,

like those discussed below, allow for control of already germinated weeds.

Postemergence herbicides may also be applied in combination with preemergence herbicides in order to “reach back” and control previously germinated weeds but still provide “residual” control of weeds yet to germinate.

• In high-end turf scenarios, split preemergence applications are recommended roughly eight weeks apart (late August, followed by October).

Due to the size and scale of most sod farms, a single application is more reasonable and can be very effective when appropriately timed or combined with a postemergence herbicide program.

• A fall/winter (October through January) selective herbicide application (such as atrazine, simazine, Kerb, Monument, Revolver, TranXit or Negate) is commonly applied where sod hasn’t reached true dormancy.

• A winter (January or February) nonselective herbicide application (such as Roundup or Finale) may be applied after true dormancy has been reached and forecasted temperatures prolong dormancy. These non-selective options are typically used only in bermudagrass and zoysiagrass. This application is sometimes combined with a preemergence herbicide intended to prevent spring-germinating weeds, such as crabgrass and goosegrass.

“TRUE PREEMERGENCE” OPTIONS dithiopyr (Dimension 2EW, Dithiopyr 2L, Dithiopyr WSB) oryzalin (Surflan, Oryzalin 4 Pro and others) pendimethalin (Pendulum Aqua Cap, Pendulum 3.3EC, Pre-M) prodiamine (Barricade 4L, Prodiamine 65WG, Resolute) trifluralin (Treflan) Prodiamine, pendimethalin, oryzalin and trifluralin are dinitroaniline herbicides, while dithiopyr is a pyridine herbicide.

Despite separate chemical classes, these herbicides act similarly in that they

APPLIED RESEARCH

PHOTO

1

30

Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) seedhead.

PHOTO

2

Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) leaf tips are distinctly “boat-shaped.”

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inhibit cell division within young roots of developing plants. Read and follow label directions and suggested rates. In some instances, labels prohibit use of these and other products as much as three months prior to harvest. metolachlor (Pennant Magnum) This option is often combined with simazine or atrazine for enhanced preemergence activity. oxadiazon (Ronstar WSP, Ronstar Flo, Oxadiazon 50 WSB) When applied as a liquid to non-dormant turf, oxadiazon injures sod. However, when dry formulations are applied on a granular carrier, such as fertilizer or other inert particle, turf injury is minimal. If applied as a liquid, the herbicide solution should be applied only to dormant turf. It can also be applied as liquid broadcast prior to sprigging or plugging but is not an option in coolseason sod scenarios.

atrazine typically control a broad spectrum of other broadleaf winter annuals.

Atrazine is a common addition to other herbicides applied in the fall; however, it can be particularly injurious to bermudagrass when applied as a liquid application, especially during warmer growing months.

emergence control where resistance to simazine, dinitroanalines and ALSinhibiting herbicides (next section) is common. It is cost prohibitive in some instances, but is labeled for use in St. Augustinegrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass and zoysiagrass.

flumioxazin (Sureguard, Panther) Flumioxazin is similar to oxadiazon, except it is sometimes used for postemergence burn-down of existing annual bluegrass and broadleaf weeds. When applied as a liquid to non-dormant turf, flumioxazin injures sod. Dry formulations applied on a granular carrier may limit turf injury; however, there are currently no commercially marketed granular products sold for turf.

SELECTIVE “POSTEMERGENCE ONLY”

pronamide (Kerb) Pronamide provides pre- and early post-

With the exception of pre/post active herbicides previously mentioned, postemergence herbicides for annual bluegrass control are limited to the same mode of action, acetolactate synthase-inhibiting herbicides. These ALS inhibitors are only used in warmseason turf production. foramsulfuron (Revolver) rimsulfuron (Tranxit or Quali-Pro rimsulfuron 25 DF)

indaziflam (Specticle) Indaziflam is an inhibitor of cellulose biosynthesis. It is labeled for use on bermudagrass, zoysiagrass and centipedegrass sod farms, but it must not be applied prior to regrowth from ribbons reaching 80% cover or greater and up to 4 months prior to harvest. Apply no sooner than 16 months after sprigging to allow for good stand establishment.

PRE AND POST CONTROL atrazine (Aatrex and others) simazine (Princep and others) Atrazine and simazine are both photosystem II-inhibiting herbicides.

Annual bluegrass resistance to these and other PSII-inhibiting herbicides limit their effectiveness at many sod farms. In research at Mississippi State on PSII-resistant populations, simazine applied as a true preemergence was much more effective than when applied as a delayed pre/early-post. In addition to annual bluegrass, simazine and

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION

31

NEWS APPLIED FROM RESEARCH THE TTA NON-SELECTIVE POA ANNUA CONTROL Non-selective options are viable if warmseason turfgrass is dormant. Applications to green turf are discouraged but may be tolerated if slowed regrowth and recovery are acceptable.

PHOTO

3

PHOTO

4

“Fly-away” stolons due to preemergence-herbicide application are not uncommon.

glufosinate (Finale) This herbicide is an option when rotating modes of action of postemergence winter applications. Glufosinate kills plants quickly and may compromise the uptake of other systemic herbicides. Glufosinate is a postemergence option where glyphosate resistance is common.

Preemergence annual bluegrass control is best when preemergence herbicides are properly timed prior to the emergence of seedlings or when preemergence herbicides are combined with postemergence herbicides.

rimsulfuron + metsulfuron (Quali-Pro Negate 37 WG) trifloxysulfuron (Monument) Products detailed here are not labeled for application to fescue, centipedegrass or St. Augustinegrass. Use of the same mode of action means that selecting for herbicide resistance is likely. In fact, many annual bluegrass populations are already reported resistant throughout the Southeast. Rotation between preemergence and postemergence herbicides, as well as rotating between herbicides with different modes of action, is critical to the continued viability of these herb32

glyphosate (Roundup) Applications of glyphosate are warranted only for non-selective control within the northern transition area or where slowed growth is acceptable. Resistance to glyphosate is on the rise; therefore, rotating to other non-selectives, as well as fall preemergence and selective winter postemergence control, is crucial to the continued viability of this product. Lowvolume applications (< 15 gallons/acre) may help reduce potential for turf injury by glyphosate. A high-volume application may re-hydrate desiccated growing meristems, ultimately increasing herbicide uptake by the desired turf. Adequate spray coverage and droplet size are still important for weed control.

icides. Adequate spray volumes (20 to 40 gallons/acre) will increase effectiveness.

Many postemergence products require an added surfactant or oil to help them enter the plant foliage.

The ALS inhibitors listed above sometimes have slight preemergence activity upon annual bluegrass. This is a consequence of their soil activity.

That is, they are often root and leaf absorbed. They do not have true preemergence activity like many of the previously mentioned preemergence and pre/post herbicides, but they often have very short-term residual activity if conditions are favorable.

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS APRIL/MAY 2017 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org

For additional information, see Mississippi State University Extension Service Publication 1532, “Weed Control Guidelines for Mississippi.

References: J.T. Brosnan, G.K. Breeden, A.W. Thoms, and J.C. Sorochan (2014) Effects of preemergence herbicides on the establishment rate and tensile strength of hybrid bermudagrass sod.

Weed Technology 28: 206-212.

The information given here is for educational purposes only. References to commercial products, trade names, or suppliers are made with the understanding that no endorsement is implied and that no discrimination against other products or suppliers is intended.

LANDSCAPE CORNER

DIAGNOSING NUTRIENT

DEFICIENCIES

in Ornamental Plants

By Geoff Denny, Ph.D., Assistant Extension Professor, Mississippi State University Key for identifying ornamental-plant nutrient deficiencies based on visual symptoms.

Symptoms start on old leaves, but spread to whole plant.

Old Leaves Symptoms on older leaves only.

Plant is pale green. Lower leaves yellow and dry to brown.

Nitrogen

Plant is dark green with purple or red coloration. Lower leaves are yellow and dry to dark green.

Phosphorus

Leaves yellow at the edges, but remain green in the middle.

Magnesium

Leaves wilted or scorched.

Edges and spots on leaf necrotic.

Potassium

Stems are shortened and rosetted

Zinc

Symptoms first appear on:

Yellowing between leaf veins Stems not shortened or rosetted Leaves yellowing

Leaves develop necrotic spots Leaves do not develop necrotic spots

Entire leaf yellow, spreading to the whole plant

Young Leaves

Iron

Sulfur

Boron

Terminal bud dying Leaves deformed and/or necrotic

Manganese

New leaves deformed.

Leaf tips and edges are necrotic.

Calcium

Plant is shunted.

Leaves bluish-green, small & deformed

Copper

Terminal bud not dying

Redrawn from Shober & Denny, 2010.

Caution: This information is for educational and preliminary planning purposes only. Use this key as a guide only. The user assumes the risk of using or otherwise relying on the output of the key. Mississippi State Extension Service does not warranty the functionality of the key or that errors can or will be discovered or corrected.

Mississippi State Extension Service does not warranty the accuracy or completeness of any output from the key. The key, its use and output are provided â&#x20AC;&#x153;as isâ&#x20AC;? and without any expressed or implied warranty, including merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Mississippi State Extension Service shall not be bound by any key output and is not responsible for use or reliance on any such output.

34

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your plants start to look bad, there are many possible causes. One common culprit is a nutrient deficiency. Nutrient deficiencies happen when a plant lacks one of the many “essential nutrients.” This is similar to a vitamin deficiency in people.

Determining which plant nutrient is missing can be a challenge. The first step is to rule out any other potential causes of the symptoms you see. Below is a list of common causes of symptoms similar to plant nutrient deficiency.

• Insects/mites • Nematodes • Diseases • Too much water • Not enough water • Cold damage • Pesticide damage • Soil compaction • Air pollution

When

Plan A — soil and tissue tests The best way to find out what your plants lack is by soil and tissue testing. Soil tests are a good way to determine which nutrients are available to your plants and to identify other factors that might cause nutritional problems (such as pH or salinity). Mississippi State University Extension offers affordable soil-testing services.

Plant tissue tests will tell you how much of each nutrient is in the plant. This shows you what the plant lacks and which nutrients are too high, possibly causing nutrient toxicity.

Having both the soil and plant tissue tested will give you the most complete picture of what is going on with your plant.

This is the most accurate way of deciding what nutrient is missing from your plants and what to do about it.

For more info on these tests, contact your county Extension agent, or visit http:// msucares.com/crops/soils/testing.html.

Plan B — use visual symptoms to diagnose deficiency Many plant nutrient deficiencies can be diagnosed based on their visual symptoms.

This is a convenient method, but it is not as accurate or dependable as soil and tissue testing. Some symptoms take longer to develop than others, and if more than one nutrient is deficient, it can be difficult to tell what is missing.

This method is not intended to replace tissue and soil tests, but it can be used when testing is impractical. The diagram in this article will help you determine which nutrients your plants lack based on visual symptoms.

To use the diagram, follow these steps: 1. Begin on the left side of the diagram.

2. Select the option that matches the plant’s symptoms.

3. Move to the next choice.

4. Do this until you reach one of the plant nutrient deficiencies on the right side.

Remember, using visual symptoms to diagnose nutrient deficiencies should only be used for preliminary planning purposes.

NEWS OF INDEX FROM ADVERTISERS THE TTA A & W Southern Sod Farms ....................................31 www.awssod.com

McCurdy Sod Farms .................................................38 www.mccurdysodfarms.com

Smith Seed Services ................................................38 www.smithseed.com

Buy Sod ........................................... Inside Back Cover www.buysod.com

Mid Tenn Turf, Inc. ............................................10, 38 www.midtennturf.com

Southeast Turf Maintenance .....................................8 www.southeastturf.com

BWI Companies .......................................................30 www.bwicompanies.com

Mid-Atlantic STIHL, Inc............................................20 www.stihldealers.com

Southern Athletic Fields ..........................................38 www.safdirt.com

Carolina Green Corp.................................................38 www.cgcfields.com

Modern Turf, Inc. .....................................................22 www.modernturf.com

Sur-Line Turf, Inc......................................................15 www.surlineturf.com

Crossroads Sod Farm ...............................................37

NewLife Turf ............................................................35 www.newlifeturf.com

Syngenta Turf ...........................................................36 www.syngentaprofessionalproducts.com

North Georgia Turf Company Inc. ............................23 www.ngturf.com

The Turfgrass Group ..............................5, Back Cover www.theturfgrassgroup.com

Perdue Agrirecycle, LLC ...........................................17 www.perdueagrirecycle.com

Tri-Turf Sod Farms ...................................................38 www.triturfsod.com

Progressive Turf Equipment, Inc. ...............................7 www.progressiveturfequip.com

Turf Mountain Sod ...................................................15 www.turfmountain.com

Grassmasters Sod Farm ...........................................19 www.grassmastersindiana.com

Pure Green Sports Turf ............................................19 www.puregreenllc.com

Turfgrass of Tennessee ...........................................24

Greenville Turf & Tractor Inc. ..................................26 www.greenvilleturf.com

RD Murphy, LLC .......................................................29 www.rdmurphy.com

Leading Edge Communications................................11 www.leadingedgecommunications.com

Regal Chemical ........................................................25 www.regalchem.com

Coosa Valley Turf Farms ..........................................29 www.coosavalleyturffarms.com Covermaster, Inc. .......................................................7 www.covermaster.com DryJect of Tennessee LLC .........................................3 Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply .....................33 www.ewing1.com

Sigma Organics, Inc. ................................................22 www.sigmaturf.com

36

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Winstead Turf Farms ......................Inside Front Cover www.winsteadturffarms.com

THE TURFGRASS TEAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE Scott Boyle Communications Coordinator The University of Tennessee 2431 Center Drive 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg.

Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-6730 sboyle1@utk.edu

James Brosnan, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Turfgrass Weed Science The University of Tennessee 2431 Joe Johnson Drive 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg.

Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-8603 jbrosnan@utk.edu

Tom Samples, Ph.D. Professor, Turfgrass Extension The University of Tennessee 2431 Joe Johnson Drive 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg.

Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-2595 tsamples@utk.edu

William Dan Strunk, Ph.D. Research Associate I The University of Tennessee 2431 Joe Johnson Drive 363 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg.

Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-2988 wstrunk@utk.edu

José Javier Vargas Almodóvar Research Associate II Turf & Ornamental Weed Science The University of Tennessee 2431 Joe Johnson Drive 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg.

Knoxville, TN 37996 (865) 974.7379 jvargas@utk.edu

Frank Hale, Ph.D. Professor, Entomology and Plant Pathology The University of Tennessee 5201 Marchant Drive Nashville, TN 37211-5201 (615) 832-6802 fahale@utk.edu

John Sorochan, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Turfgrass Science The University of Tennessee 2431 Joe Johnson Drive 363 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg.

Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-7324 sorochan@utk.edu

Alan Windham, Ph.D. Professor, Entomology and Plant Pathology The University of Tennessee 5201 Marchant Drive Nashville, TN 37211-5201 (615) 832-6802 awindham@utk.edu

Greg Breeden Extension Specialist, The University of Tennessee 2431 Center Drive 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg.

Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-7208 gbreeden@utk.edu

Brandon Horvath, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Turfgrass Science The University of Tennessee 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg.

2431 Joe Johnson Drive Knoxville, TN 37996 (865) 974-2975 bhorvath@utk.edu

John Stier, Ph.D. Assistant Dean The University of Tennessee 2621 Morgan Circle 126 Morgan Hall Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-7493 jstier1@utk.edu

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 ©2017 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.

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION

37

CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 15

May 16

June 13

July 19–22

ETGCSA Meeting

MTGCSA Meeting

MAGCSA Meeting

TPI Summer Program

Speaker: Jim Kerns, Ph.D. NC State University Dandridge Golf & C.C. Dandridge, TN

Old Hickory Country Club Lunch and 18 Holes, Plus Several Speakers Old Hickory, TN

Field Tour and SodHarvesting Process Winstead Turf Farms Arlington, TN

The Heldrich New Brunswick, NJ

May 15

June 13

June 16

ETGCSA Meeting

MTGCSA Meeting

Speaker: Jonathan Overly, East TN Clean Fuels Coalition Sevierville Golf Club Sevierville, TN

Sounds Family Day Nashville, TN

MAGCSA Meeting “PGR Trials in Relation to Growing Degree Days — Hacking Green Speeds” Speaker: Scott McElroy, Ph.D., Auburn University Colonial Country Club Cordova, TN

July 17 ETGCSA Meeting Speaker: David Shell, University of Tennessee Ridgewood Golf Club Athens, TN

DIGITAL MARKETPLACE

September 7 UT Turfgrass & Ornamental Field Day Knoxville, TN

January 8–10, 2018 52nd Annual TTA Conference and Tradeshow Embassy Suites Murfreesboro, TN