Virginia Turfgrass Journal - January / February 2017

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

Roughstalk Bluegrass Control in Tall Fescue Soil Testing and Potassium Fertilizer Recommendations for Golf Courses Snow Blower Safety Tips Plus, Programs for the 2017 Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (M-A-T-E) and Come to the Bay

January/February 2017

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council | January/February 2017

22 16 Upcoming Event Preview of the 2017 Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (M-A-T-E), January 30 – February 2

36 DEPARTMENTS 6 Presidentʼs Message

from Rick Owens, CGCS

8 Directorʼs Corner

from Tom Tracy, Ph.D.

20 Upcoming Event 2017 Come to the Bay Protect: Promote: Prosper February 28 – March 1

22 Cover Story Roughstalk Bluegrass Control in Tall Fescue

28 Applied Research Soil Testing and Potassium Fertilizer Recommendations for Golf Courses

36 Equipment Basics Snow Blower Safety Tips: Keep Best Practices in Mind This Winter 4 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

10 Editorʼs Perspective

Mark Vaughn, CGCS

12 VTF Report

Betty B. Parker

14 VTC Membership Form 37 Index of Advertisers 38 Virginia Tech Turf Team 38 Turfgrass Calendar

President’s Message

WE’LL SEE YOU Here!

T

here is still time to register for the Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (M-A-T-E) to be held January 30 – February 2. The event will be held once again at the Fredericksburg Conference and Expo Center.

Many thanks to the exhibitors who are bringing equipment, products and staff to the tradeshow. Come see the latest equipment and product lines available for the turfgrass industry.

On Monday, January 30, the education program will begin at 1:00 p.m.

One session, called Turfgrass 101, will be a basic overview of the knowledge needed to grow fine turfgrass. The second session is tailored to golf course superintendents. The program will begin with the always-popular Golf Turf Year in Review presented by Darin Bevard, Director of Championship Agronomy for the USGA Green Section, and Elliot Dowling, agronomist for USGA Green Section Mid-Atlantic Region.

Day two hosts the annual meetings of both the Virginia Turfgrass Council

6 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Rick Owens, CGCS 2016–2017 President

and the Maryland Turfgrass Council.

Following the annual meetings, we will break out into individual sessions devoted to golf, lawn care, sod production and sports turf. Numerous presenters from industry and academia will speak on a wide range of topics.

The tradeshow will open on Tuesday afternoon and remain open till 7:30 p.m. The popular Corn Hole Tournament will be held from 5:30 p.m, until 7:30 p.m. on the tradeshow floor.

On Wednesday, the tradeshow continues, and the staff of the University of Maryland and Virginia Tech will present their latest research results.

Pesticide recertification is available for attendees seeking renewal of their licenses.

The Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo closes on Thursday with more pesticide training, as well as fertilizer application training. At the conclusion of the day, exams will be offered for both disciplines.

You can register for all days, just one day or any portion of the conference desired. While you’re in Fredericksburg, take time to visit the area. A charming town with much history, the old town is dotted with fine restaurants and interesting shops. A great museum commemorates the Civil War battle of Fredericksburg. You can still walk alongside the wall lining the sunken road below Mary’s Heights where General Robert E. Lee and the Confederate army repelled the Union army under General Burnside. It is still possible to look out over the Rappahannock River where the Union Army’s pontoon bridge crossed into the town.

Fredericksburg is a great place to visit. I hope to see everyone in Fredericksburg at the Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo.

Rick Owens CGCS 2016–2017 VTC President

Director’s Corner

VTC Partners WORKING for YOU

P

artnerships continue to be a recurring theme of my column. Previously, I wrote of working with the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture, Businesses for the Bay (part of the Alliance for the Bay) and the Virginia chapter of the Professional Grounds Management Society to produce Come to the Bay. That two-day conference is a new event for all of the green industry. Held in Virginia Beach at the end of February, it has fantastic potential to serve our members!

Now, I’d like to briefly mention four other events that are possible only because we work together with other professionals and associations to enrich our industry. Who benefits from such collaborations? You! One, the VTC is working with the Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association (VNLA) to produce a series of monthly green-industry webinars.

These great opportunities for CEUs and fertilizer recertification credits are an outgrowth of the VNLA’s already successful “lunch and learn” webinars.

Reserve the third Thursday of each month to attend! Details are starting to appear on the VTC web page.

Two, the VTC is working with schools (both public and private), home school leaders and Virginia Co-

operative Extension (VCE) to produce a brand new Career Day, which is titled “Careers in the Green Industry and Environmental Sciences.” Two such days are scheduled for 2017. One will be in Virginia Beach as part of Come to the Bay, and one will be in Front Royal as part of VCE’s Horticulture Dayz.

Three, we are working with the City of Roanoke Parks and Recreation department to produce a one-day, hands-on training class for lawn care operators, park employees and other segments of the green industry. Details will soon be available, but keep the third Friday of August open so you can come to Roanoke and get some great training (and CEUs).

Four, I must mention one partnership that has already been highlighted in previous months. We are working with James Madison University (JMU) to produce Come to the Valley. Similar to Come to the Bay but tailored to meet the specific needs of western Virginia, this event will be held on the JMU campus at the end of May. Virginia Tech is one partner not mentioned above. That omission was not an oversight but rather a direct admission of a very deep symbiotic relationship. None of the other partnerships and activities would be possi-

8 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Tom Tracy, Ph.D. VTC Executive Director

ble without the support of Dr. Goatley and other VT professors.

Virginia Turfgrass Journal is the official publication of The Virginia Turfgrass Council P.O. Box 5989 Virginia Beach, VA 23471 Office: (757) 464-1004 Fax: (757) 282-2693 vaturf@verizon.net PUBLISHED BY Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, Tennessee 37064 (615) 790-3718 Fax: (615) 794-4524 Email: info@leadingedgecommunications.com EDITOR Mark Vaughn, CGCS VTC OFFICERS President Rick Owens, CGCS Laurel Hill Golf Club (703) 674-6934 Vice President Scott Woodward Woodward Turf Farms (540) 727-0020 Treasurer Michael Skelton Culpeper County (540) 727-3412 Past President Fredrick Biggers, CGCS Wintergreen Resort (434) 325-8252 VTC DIRECTORS Steve Glass Tony Montgomery Marc Petrus Jesse Pritchard, CSFM David Smith Rick Viancour, CGCS Jimmy Viars, CGM Craig Zeigler VTC ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Mike Goatley, Ph.D. (Chair) Shawn Askew, Ph.D. Jeffrey Derr, Ph.D. Erik Ervin, Ph.D. David McCall Ph.D. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/ DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS Tom Tracy, Ph.D. (757) 464-1004 VIRGINIA TURFGRASS FOUNDATION Betty Parker (757) 574-9061

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

|9

Editor’s Perspective

Prognostications

for the YEAR of the

Mark Vaughn, CGCS Virginia Turfgrass Journal Editor

FIRE ROOSTER

W

ell, well, well — it’s 2017. No, I’m not talking about the number of fake degrees they’ve given out at Carolina over the past 25 years or so. That would be a smaller number, though not by much. Of course, I speak of the YEAR of our Lord and, if you’re Chinese, the Year of the Rooster. And not just any rooster, but the FIRE Rooster. Now, I don’t know about you, but after the summer of 2016, I feel like the ol’ Fire Chicken might have gotten his timing off a little and arrived early to the party. Then again, I could argue the Year of the Monkey(s) was oh-so apropos for the election cycle that we just survived.

At any rate, is there ANYONE who isn’t glad to see 2016 in the rearview?

Oh, sure, I’m guessing some of you may have gotten married, had a child or hit the lottery. But for the rest of us, we’re putting the last 12 months in File 13.

And let me tell you — 2017 is going to be spectacular! We’re all going to quit doing those things that are bad for us, stop buying into the negativity, love will trump hate, we’ll be stronger together, and we will make America great again! Before you smug cynics out there discount my psychic powers, let me review with you my #1 prediction (written, I might add, in early

December of 2015) for 2016. And I quote: “Emperor Trump announces an inauguration unlike any other.”

Bada bing, bada BOOM! Once again, I know that satire and biting humor are no longer allowed in the U.S., but for the sake of The Man and her daily intake of Tums, I must remind you that this is a poor attempt at such. But take to Facebook or Twitter or whatever is the latest rage (pun intended), and cut me to pieces if you must.

Prognostication #1 Universities face a budget crisis as thousands of college students drop out and return home. Citing “the stresses of just living,” those few willing to face the trauma of being interviewed and voicing their opinions say, “Going to class for four hours, three days a week, is such a grind. Then, we have to go to the dining hall and decide between lobster bisque, oysters Rockefeller, prosciutto sliders or the smoked salmon. When weekends come, the pressure can be crushing. Do we hang out at the all-day tailgate, go to Biff’s parents’ ski chalet or join the drum circle downtown? We just want to go back to those days when Mom did our laundry, Dad cleaned our room, and they both sat mindlessly for hours watching us run up and down a field

10 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

on weekends, kicking a ball.”

In response to the crisis, Chancellors agree to end the “barbaric” practice of exams and adopt the UNC athletics model.

Prognostication #2 In a stunning (wink, wink) turn of events, His Highness Trump announces he will NOT really do the things he talked about in the campaign.

His first 100 days in office will center on… wait for it… golf. Asked to elaborate, the T-Man says, “Over the past 25 years or so, there’s been some bad golf courses built. Really bad. Moronic, stupid holes. Ridiculous greens complexes. Ugly, fat clubhouses. Railroad ties. Who built these things — Norfolk Southern? So first, we’re going to rebuild them all, using federal monies designated for infrastructure improvements. Secondly, we’re going to rewrite the rules of golf. There are some really Bad Hombres in that book. Spike marks — stupid. Ball moving on green — dumb, really dumb. Long putter ban — nasty. Medal play — Socialist.

They’re gone. All gone. R&A — done. USGA — history.”

Prognostication #3 Safe spaces are declared at the MidAtlantic Turfgrass Expo for all superintendents still growing Penncross

bentgrass. “We’ve been harassed for years by all the guys growing the latest ‘designer’ bentgrasses. Now that they’ve taken a backseat to ultradwarf boys, they’re not happy, and the bullying towards us has intensified,” says one superintendent, who wished to remain anonymous, fearing for his safety.

Confirming this, another superintendent standing nearby offered up this chilling aside: “Yeah, I was walking down the hallway between sessions last year when a couple of them fellers snickered and said, ‘There he goes.

I’ll bet he drives a Buick, too.’”

Prognostication #4 Hyperbole is banned from all print and social media. Citing the blatant overuse of such terms as “rips,” “slays,” “outraged,” “crushed,” “blasted,” “awesome,” “OMG,” “massacre,” “tragedy,” “devastated,” “furious,” “hysterical,” “dramatic,” “distraught,” et al., the folks at Webster’s say these words are going on the shelf for at least ten years.

“Our hope is when these descriptive, emotionally charged terms reenter the diction of the next generation, they will actually mean something again.”

Prognostication #5 A 100-square-mile perimeter goes up around Keystone, SD. On the ground, locals are not allowed to enter or exit.

In the air, a no-fly zone is established.

Communications are jammed. On Google Earth, the area mysteriously appears as a large black hole. Smuggled, hand-written notes from within the area indicate the constant sound of jackhammers and explosions.

After months of secrecy, the project is revealed. To the left and slightly below the face of the 1st President of the United States is the profile of the 45th President. Hidden behind the now-famous hair and relegated to historical obscurity are Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln.

Gore, the foursome (using Clinton Foundation billions) builds a massive coal-burning facility in remote China.

As the planet warms to record levels and polar-cap ice melts, the oceanfront homes of millionaires from Martha’s Vineyard to Miami, as well as the capital of the free world built on swampland near the Potomac, are threatened. Severe drought, driven by the massive Pacific El Nino created by the conspiracy, threatens the world food supply.

At the height of the summer heat, and with the world on the brink, a video produced by Jay-Z is broadcast by hackers who have gained control of every screen on the planet. “Nasty Girls,” a clever remake set to the music of Janet Jackson’s “Nasty Boys,” features a gyrating Hillary, laughing deliriously and asking, “Who’s nasty now?”

Prognostication #7 Ok, enough of this political crap.

Time for the Masters Prediction. In conjunction with the rollout of their new motto, “Let’s Get Real,” Augusta attempts to emulate what goes on in the real world of golf at thousands of courses every day. Fairways are mown at .625” so as to allow older players to sweep the ball. Bunkers are raked only once during the tournament, and caddies are instructed to leave some footprints in the sand so as to allow for those “surprise” lies. Greens are slowed to the lightning-fast stimp speed of 8.

Creek banks are left high and natural.

But, in the biggest nod to real-life golf, four sets of age-appropriate tees go

out. Past champions 50 and older play the whites, 60 and older play the yellows, and 70 and older play the reds.

Gary Player sets off a huge controversy by winning the 2017 event, but Chairman Billy Payne lauds the win as a perfect bookend to the Drive, Chip and Putt competition held earlier in the week.

In other news, top American golfers announce they are not planning to attend the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo because they don’t like sushi.

So, there. You know, year after year, I’ve asked you all for a little compensation for all the conjuring I do to get this cutting-edge info to you, and year after year, I’m devastated, distraught, crushed, a little outraged, somewhat furious and bordering on hysterical when I examine my shrinking savings. Oh, sure, a few of you have commented that you chuckled once or twice, but chuckles don’t pay the bills, now, do they? So this year, I’m through with asking. Just take it. For free. Like you always do. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine. Go Facebook or Twitter or something. That’s what Twits do, isn’t it? Watch some reality TV. I’m sure the Kardashians are doing something really helpful and redeeming. I’ll just be here, working all year on your 2018 prognostications.

You do realize if you’d listened early last year, you could have taken $10K and turned it into $400K on the election. Just sayin.’

Prognostication #6 Former President and almostPresident Clinton join forces with Dr. Evil to plot the overthrow of the world. Joined by climate engineer Al Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 11

VTF Report

JUST WHAT

Betty B. Parker VTF Manager

Is the VTF?

F

rom time to time, I repeat myself for a very worthwhile cause, and in this article, I hope you will be reminded of just what the VTF represents and why we exist.

For starters: The Virginia Turfgrass Foundation is a non-profit, tax exempt, scientific and educational organization 501(c)(3). All contributions are tax deductible. Since 1988, the VTF has been able to support research projects that have enhanced not only the quality of turfgrass but also, ultimately, the overall quality of life. Fungicides, herbicides, biostimulants and sports-field management are just some of the research trials that have been supported by the VTF. To achieve our mission of funding quality, innovative turfgrass research, our ultimate goal has been the establishment of a stable endowment fund.

We are aiming for one million dollars so that the interest generated by this fund each year can be used for turfgrass research and the principle will remain intact. Currently, this fund is growing and has a balance of $577,707.

Once we reach our goal, the amount we currently support (approximately $70,000) will be doubled! Our very talented turfgrass researchers at

Virginia Tech deserve so much more than we are currently funding them.

Here is how you can help:

We are here to get you answers through the research that we support, and the bottom line is that you actually help yourself when you support us.

1.

Give me a call (757-574-9061), and make a pledge. I would like to challenge each of you in the turfgrass industry to donate to your cause. Yes, I said YOUR CAUSE. The research you fund makes your job easier and makes you look like a rock star!

2.

Come by our booth at the upcoming M-A-T-E conference and learn about the current research being endorsed by the VTF. We usually have a game and prizes, too. You know you’re better than your colleagues... come prove it in the name of research!

The 2017 VTF Board of Directors Jeff Everhart (540) 727-0020

Sean Baskette (540) 892-9299

Jim Wilson (540) 494-9381

Eric Frazier, CGCS (804) 228-4146

3.

Please feel free to call on me or any of our dedicated board members (see list at right). We can come talk to your organization and showcase what we are all about. We can also relay suggestions for research you would like to see done by our research team at Virginia Tech.

12 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Scott Woodward (540) 446-9553

Fred Biggers, CGCS (434) 325-8252

Rick Owens, CGCS (703) 674-6934

Virginia Turfgrass Council (VTC) 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, Virginia Turfgrass Journal, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or VTC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this bimonthly publication. Copyright Š2016 by the Virginia Turfgrass Council. Virginia Turfgrass Journal is published bimonthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of VTC. POSTMASTER: Send change of address notification to VTC, P.O. Box 5989, Virginia Beach, VA 23471.

Postage guaranteed. Third-class postage is paid at Nashville, TN. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: Virginia Turfgrass Journal allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to VTC. 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 37068-0142, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524. Deadlines are the first of the month prior to the following month’s publication. (Example: August 1 for the September issue.)

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 13

VTC Membership

JOIN THE

TODAY!

Membership Benefits For ALL members include:

FREE pesticide recertification training at the oneday regional seminars.

FREE Certified Fertilizer Applicator training at the Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo in January (M-A-T-E) and the Come to the Bay (February) and Come to the Valley (May) regional conferences.

FREE entry to the research tour of turfgrass studies in June at the Hampton Roads AREC. FREE subscription to our bi-monthly Virginia Turfgrass Journal, offering research and industry updates.

Valuable assistance on state and local legislative and bureaucratic issues. Do you know that every member of Virginia’s General Assembly receives our bi-monthly Virginia Turfgrass Journal? Several Delegates and Senators have said how much they appreciate being on our mailing list.

Monthly email of job postings.

Discounts to every one of our activities.

Join as a GROUP or as an INDIVIDUAL Individual Membership One Year — $85 Individual Membership Two Years — $150

Platinum Group Membership Membership fee of $1,250 includes: 11 to 20 members.

Send up to 100 of your employees to one of our Regional Pesticide Training Classes — AT NO COST. Year-round membership listing and link from VTC website.

Fertilizer Certification Training and Recertification Training (3A, 3B 60) at your site.

Gold Group Membership Membership fee of $800 includes: 6 to 10 members Silver Group Membership Membership fee of $400 includes: 1 to 5 members

14 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Membership Application Complete this application form and — • Mail it to the address at the bottom of this page.

• Or fax it to 757-282-2693

OR Join/Renew online at

www.vaturf.org

Member Information First Name _____________________________________________ Last Name_____________________________________________ Company or Organization________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________________________ State __________ Zip ____________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________ Fax ___________________________________________________ E-Mail_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Payment SELECT ONE Platinum Group Membership (11 or more members + Year-round listing and link from VTC website) ..........................$1,250 Gold Group Membership (6 – 10 members) .....................................................................................................................$800 Silver Group Membership (1 – 5 members) ......................................................................................................................$400 Individual for Two Years .................................................................................................................................................$150 Individual for One Year ...................................................................................................................................................$85

Pay by Check or by Credit Card Please check appropriate box:

Check

AMEX

VISA

MasterCard

Card #: ________________________________________________ Print Cardholder Name: _________________________________ Security Code: __________________________________________ Expiration Date:________________________________________ Dues may be deductible as a business expense but not as a charitable contribution. Based on 2013 activity, one percent (1%) of dues are not deductible in accordance with IRS Section 6033.

Virginia Turfgrass Council P.O. Box 5989 Virginia Beach, VA 23471 • Phone: 757-464-1004 • Fax: 757-282-2693 Email: vaturf@verizon.net • Web: www.vaturf.org Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 15

Upcoming Event

January 30 – February 2, 2017

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO (M-A-T-E)

For up-to-the-minute updates and to register online, visit

www.turfconference.org Monday, January 30 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Turfgrass 101 Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Virginia Tech, and Tom Turner, Ph.D., University of Maryland 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Golf Session

Growing For Our Future Fredericksburg Conference & Expo Center Fredericksburg, VA

USGA Green Section Golf Turf Year in Review Darin Bevard, Director of Championship Agronomy, and Elliot Dowling, USGA Optimizing Annual Bluegrass Seedhead Suppression Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Problematic Disease Issues of 2016 Steve McDonald, Turfgrass Disease Solutions Dollar Spot Suppression with Iron Sulfate David McCall, Ph.D., and Cam Shelton, Virginia Tech

Tuesday, January 31 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

The Virginia Turfgrass Council and Maryland Turfgrass Council are delighted to invite you to the organizations’ second annual combined conference — the Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (M - A - T - E ) — slated for January 30 – February 2. Again this year, all profits from the event will be given to the turfgrass research projects at Virginia Tech and the University of Maryland!

Dress for both the educational sessions and the Expo is business casual.

16 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

General Session Welcome MTC & VTC Annual Meetings Keynote Presentation — Bee Decline, Pesticides and Politics: Challenges and Opportunities for the Green Industry Dan Potter, Ph.D., University of Kentucky 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Mechanic’s Seminar Day One of Two (see page 18)

Tuesday, January 31 (continued)

Wednesday, February 1

9:45 a.m. –11:45 a.m.

9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Turf/Horticulture Basics Taught in Spanish

Sod Production Session

9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Golf Session Dollar Spot Development and Forecasting and New Control Methods John Inguagiato, Ph.D., University of Connecticut Barriers to Biological Control of Diseases of Cool-Season Turfgrasses Joe Roberts, Ph.D., University of Maryland Dealing with Extremes and Alternative Management Programs Jon Lobenstine, Montgomery County (MD) Golf Preventing Skin Disease Problems Molly Roberts, PA-C Dermatology 9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Lawn Care Session Top 10 Nasty Insect Pests of Trees and Shrubs and How to Deal with Them Dan Potter, Ph.D., University of Kentucky Controlling Crabgrass, Goosegrass and Roughstalk Bluegrass in Turfgrass Jeff Derr, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Plant, Soil and Environmental Benefits of Compost Applications for Lawns Mark Carroll, Ph.D., University of Maryland The Latest on Weed Control in Ornamentals Kenneth Ingram, MS, University of Maryland

Maximizing Herbicide Efficiency and Efficacy in Difficult Years Steve McDonald, Turfgrass Disease Solutions Controlling Turf Insect Pests: It’s Getting Easier to Be Green Dan Potter, Ph.D., University of Kentucky Nutrient-Management Impacts on Early-Season Diseases of Cool- and Warm-Season Grasses in Sod Production Joe Roberts, Ph.D. University of Maryland 9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Sports Turf Session A History of Technological Advances in Sports Turf Management Kevin Mathias, Ph.D., University of Maryland

7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.

Fellowship Breakfast 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Mechanic’s Seminar Day Two of Two (see page 18) 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Pesticide Recertification (3A, 3B, 60 ONLY) 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 Part One of Two 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Trade Show and Lunch 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Part Two of Two 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

University of Maryland and Virginia Tech Research Updates University of Maryland and Virginia Tech faculty, staff and graduate students will give short research updates, summarizing their most current and pertinent research findings for the Mid-Atlantic turfgrass industry.

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Trends in Cultural Management Practices in Intensely Maintained Sports Turf John Turnour, Washington Nationals Baseball

Tradeshow and Lunch

Weed Control in Trafficked Systems Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech

Thursday, February 2

Summer Patch Issues & Control in Sports Turf John Inguagiato, Ph.D., University of Connecticut 12:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Lunch — Free with registration.

12:45 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

TRADESHOW Please visit our exhibitors!

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT

Please visit our exhibitors!

2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Virginia and Maryland Sod Growers Meetings

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Pesticide Recertification 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Fertilizer Recertification (VA and MD) 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Virginia Certified Fertilizer Applicator Training and Examination 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Initial Pesticide Review of Core and Offering of Pesticide Exams for Virginia (You must bring an approval letter from VDACS.

Next to the tradeshow floor.

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 17

Upcoming Event continued

Don’t Miss the

During the

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO January 31 – February 1, 2017 Tuesday, January 31

Wednesday, February 1

Registration Details

Morning Session

Morning Session

Only $70

Welding

Expectations Roundtable

for VTC and MTC Members

Lunch

Late Morning

$95

Included with Registration

Visit the M-A-T-E Tradeshow

for Non-Members (Fees increase after January 10.)

Afternoon

Lunch

Register online at

Visit the M-A-T-E Tradeshow

Included with Registration

www.turfconference.org

Afternoon Session Landscape Equipment Maintenance

18 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

or use the registration form on the next page.

Upcoming Event continued

Registration Form

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO (M-A-T-E) January 30 – February 2, 2017 • Fredericksburg, VA • Fredericksburg Conference & Expo Center Program and lodging information: www.turfconference.org Full Name: ___________________________________________ (First name for badge): _______________________________ Company/Organization: ____________________________________________________________________________________ Preferred Mailing Address: __________________________________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________________________ State: _____________ Zip/Postal Code: __________________ Telephone:(______) ___________________________________ Fax:(______) ________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ CONFERENCE FEES (POSTMARKED BY JANUARY 10; Prices increase after that date.)

1. Registration Fees MTC OR VTC MEMBER MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY Member Rate Non-Member Rate One Day $90 $125 Two Days $170 $205 Three Days $250 $285 Mechanic’s Seminar ONLY $70 $95 FREE

THURSDAY

$60

WHEN ARE YOU ATTENDING? Circle the day(s).

Monday; Tuesday; Wednesday; Mechanics Seminar; Thursday COST:

$ _________________________

2. Attend Trade Show ONLY ($20 per Day, includes Lunch and Tuesday Reception) WHEN ARE YOU ATTENDING? Circle the day(s): Tuesday or Wednesday

$ _________________________

3. JOIN OR RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP

$ _________________________

VTC Regular Membership (January 1 – December 31) $85 MTC Regular Membership (February 1 – January 31) $50 Further membership options at http://turfconference.org/registration.html Total Enclosed

$ _________________________

Cancellations/Changes and Refunds:

Fees for missed meals, late arrivals and early departures will not be refunded. Fees will be refunded, less a $20.00 processing fee, if cancellation or change resulting in a refund is received in writing no later than January 10, 2017. After that date, fees are non-refundable. All refunds will be processed after the conference. Substitutions are allowed at no charge.

PAYMENT METHOD: Check to: Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (or MATE). Registration confirmation/receipt will be mailed.

Please check appropriate box: Check AMEX VISA MasterCard Card #: ______________________________________________ Print Cardholder Name:_______________________________ Card Security Code Number: ___________________________ Expiration Date: _____________________________________ Please mail, fax, or scan and email completed registration form with payment to: M-A-T-E P.O. Box 5989 Virginia Beach, VA 23471

Phone: (757) 464-1004 FAX: (757) 282-2693 Email: vaturf@verizon.net Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 19

Upcoming Event

February 28 – March 1

2017PROTECT: Come to the Bay PROMOTE: PROSPER Tuesday, February 28 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Pesticide Recertification Register at 7:30 a.m.

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Initial Pesticide Training 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Green Industry Team Leadership Day One of Two 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Certified Fertilizer Applicator Training and Exam 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Pesticide Exams

10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Irrigation Workshop by SiteOne Landscape Supply

Tuesday Only — no charge for members

MORNING BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Wednesday Only — $95

Turf/Horticulture Basics Taught in Spanish Lawn/Landscape Annual Grass Control for Turfgrass & Ornamental Beds Jeff Derr, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Tree/Turfgrass Interactions Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Virginia Tech

Arborist Stem-Girdling Roots Joel Koci, Aborcare Professional Tree Service

4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Social Mixer (onsite)

Management of the Urban Forest Chad Peevy, Old Dominion University

8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

General Session Preserving the Elizabeth River through Proper Green-Industry Practices Barbara Gavin, Elizabeth River Project Restoring the Chesapeake Bay — Progress and Opportunities Ann Jennings, Chesapeake Bay Commission Industry Challenges with a Focus on the Transition Zone Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Virginia Tech We’re All in This Together Craig Zeigler, Agronomic Lawn Mgmt.

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Green Industry Team Leadership: Day Two 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Career Day for High School Students

VTC MEMBER RATES

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Must have prior permission from VDACS to take exam.

Wednesday, March 1

Registration Details

Tuesday and Wednesday — $95 Tuesday, Wednesday and GITL — $115

NON-MEMBER RATES Tuesday Only — $75 Wednesday Only — $135 Tuesday and Wednesday — $175 Tuesday, Wednesday and GITL — $195

OPTIONAL* Unless you object, $10 of your registration fee will be sent to one of the following: Turfgrass Research at HR-AREC

Lunch and Networking

Bonnie Appleton Memorial Scholarship (VA Tech)

Lunch on your own.

No thanks. I prefer not to have money sent.

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

AFTERNOON BREAKOUT SESSIONS Lawn/Landscape Working with First Responders Stephen Connally, City of Norfolk Fire Dept.

Equipment Maintenance and Safety Jeffrey Kline, Virginia Beach City Public Schools Meadow Management Michael Moore, City of Virginia Beach

* This decision is optional, is part of the registration fee and, therefore does not qualify as a taxexempt donation. If no boxes are checked, $5 will be sent to each of the two funds.

REGISTRATION Register online at www.cometothebay.org, by using PayPal or by downloading a form to return to us.

Hotel Information Attendee Special Rates ...............................$89!

Arborist Working with First Responders Stephen Connally, City of Norfolk Fire Dept.

Community Forestry Michael Nentwich, City of Norfolk Physiology of Woody Plants Joel Koci, Aborcare Professional Tree Service

20 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

The Virginia Beach Resort Hotel & Conference Center is located at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay — 2800 Shore Drive Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451 Reserve your room by contacting the hotel directly at 800-468-2722 (mention you are with Come to the Bay).

Cover Story

Roughstalk Bluegrass Control in Tall Fescue

By Jeffrey Derr, Ph.D., Professor of Weed Science, and Adam Nichols, Research Assistant, Hampton Roads Ag. Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech

R

oughstalk bluegrass seed has sometimes been included in turfgrass seed mixes for shady areas, and it has been used as an overseeding grass for winter color in bermudagrass. Like most cool-season species, it grows actively in fall through spring. Roughstalk bluegrass leaves have a finer texture and a light-green or yellowish-green color, making them stand out against the darker green color of turf-type tall fescue, and thus, clumps of this bluegrass species are noticeable in lawns and other turf areas in spring and fall.

Also, roughstalk bluegrass is not as heat-tolerant as tall fescue and will go dormant during the heat of Virginia summers. When the heat and drought of summer arrives, this plant will turn reddish or brown, making it stand out that time of year. Summer annual weeds may fill in areas where this

22 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Cover Story continued

species has gone dormant, creating a cycle that can decrease the density of a tall fescue lawn.

Due to its lighter green color and summer dormancy, roughstalk bluegrass is considered a weed in turfgrass.

With the high heat and humidity during summer in eastern Virginia, homeowners have seen an increase in disease incidence and thinning of tall fescue stands that require overseeding in the fall. With the increase in

overseeding, there has also been an increase in roughstalk bluegrass infestations in lawns. Therefore, being able to remove roughstalk bluegrass from a tall fescue lawn is becoming more critical. Current herbicides are not

1 3 Photo 1: Roughstalk bluegrass (center) has a lighter green color and finer blades than tall fescue (surrounding turf).

2 24 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Photo 2: Roughstalk bluegrass (left) vs. tall fescue (right). Notice the stolon on roughstalk bluegrass.

Photo 3: We planted strips of roughstalk bluegrass next to tall fescue for our trials.

Cover Story continued

effective at removing roughstalk bluegrass from tall fescue stands; therefore, combinations of herbicides need to be tested for their efficacy.

Identification Roughstalk bluegrass (Poa trivialis) is a cool-season perennial bluegrass species that spreads by stolons (above-ground creeping stems) as well as by seed. It grows best in moist, shady areas.

Brown to purple bands surround the nodes. The leaves are folded in the bud and have the boat-shaped tip typical of most bluegrass species. Leaf blades are shiny, 2" to 7" long, 1/10" to 2/10" (2 mm to 5 mm) wide and covered with many small, rough hairs, giving the plant a rough feel. Roughstalk bluegrass has a membranous ligule that can be variable in size but generally is relatively large (1/5" or 4 mm to 6 mm). The seedhead is a panicle very similar to other bluegrass species.

Our research We continue to receive questions on how to manage this species in turf areas. We prepared an area at the Virginia Beach station in fall 2015, seeding strips of tall fescue and roughstalk bluegrass. We applied treatments in spring 2016 to determine the efficacy of various combinations of herbicides for their postemergence control of roughstalk bluegrass in a tall fescue lawn.

Research procedures The first set of treatments were applied on March 30, 2016, to a stand of ‘Titanium’ tall fescue seeded in September 2015 at the Hampton Roads AREC in Virginia Beach. Treatments were applied using a CO2 powered boom sprayer calibrated to deliver 25 gallons per acre. All treatments were duplicated on a second set of plots located next to the first set of plots.

Along with an non-treated check for control, treatments were: • Xonerate + Capsil (a nonionic surfactant) • Tenacity + Capsil • Xonerate + Tenacity + Capsil

TABLE 1

Mean percent roughstalk bluegrass control in the first trial.

Trt. # Treatment Name 1 Nontreated 2 Xonerate + Capsil 3 Tenacity + Capsil 4 Xonerate + Tenacity + Capsil 5 Velocity + Capsil 6 Xonerate + Pylex + MSO 7 Xonerate + Prograss + MSO 8 Prograss 9 Acclaim Extra + Capsil 10 Fusilade II + Capsil LSD P=0.05

Rate 5.6 0.25 8 0.25 5.6 8 0.25 6 0.25 5.6 1.5 1 5.6 1.5 1 1.5 20 0.25 6 0.25

fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A fl oz/A % v/v oz/A % v/v fl oz/A fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A lb a.i./A % v/v lb a.i./A fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A % v/v

6 DAITz 0 dy 6 c

Percent roughstalk bluegrass control 14 DAIT 22 DAIT 30 DAIT 42 DAIT 0 e 1 d 1 e 0 d 13 c 23 c 39 bc 46 c

50 DAIT 0 c 55 b

4 c

6 d

5 cd

5 e

0 d

0 c

15 a

48 a

73 a

89 a

95 a

99 a

3 d

1 c

0 d

1 de

6 cd

8 de

11 b

30 b

70 a

85 a

93 a

99 a

6 c

13 c

48 b

58 b

74 ab

85 a

0 d 0 d

1 e 2 de

2 d 15 cd

1 e 31 cd

0 d 20 d

1 c 3 c

1 d

3 de

16 cd

40 bc

56 bc

48 b

3

6

19

25

23

24

z DAIT = Days after initial treatment March 30, 2016. y Means are the average of four replicates. Means followed by the same letter do not differ significantly according to the Least Significant Difference test (a=0.05).

TABLE 2

Mean tall fescue injury in the first trial.

Trt. # Treatment Name 1 Nontreated 2 Xonerate + Capsil 3 Tenacity + Capsil 4 Xonerate + Tenacity + Capsil 5 Velocity + Capsil 6 Xonerate + Pylex + MSO 7 Xonerate + Prograss + MSO 8 Prograss 9 Acclaim Extra + Capsil 10 Fusilade II + Capsil LSD P=0.05

Rate 5.6 0.25 8 0.25 5.6 8 0.25 6 0.25 5.6 1.5 1 5.6 1.5 1 1.5 20 0.25 6 0.25

fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A fl oz/A % v/v oz/A % v/v fl oz/A fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A lb a.i./A % v/v lb a.i./A fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A % v/v

6 DAITz 0 ay

Percent tall fescue injury 22 DAIT 30 DAIT 42 DAIT 1 d 1 f 1 ef 3 d 8 de 3 def

0 a

14 DAIT 0 b 1 ab

50 DAIT 3 a 0 a

0 a

1 ab

4 cd

3 ef

1 ef

6 a

1 a

2 ab

6 bc

13 cd

5 de

0 a

0 a

0 b

3 d

2 ef

5 d

5 a

1 a

2 ab

6 bc

21 b

14 b

0 a

1 a

2 a

8 b

15 bc

10 c

0 a

0 a 0 a

0 b 0 b

1 d 3 d

1 ef 4 ef

0 f 5 d

5 a 6 a

0 a

0 b

20 a

35 a

23 a

4 a

1

2

3

7

4

6

z DAIT = Days after initial treatment March 30, 2016. y Means are the average of four replicates. Means followed by the same letter do not differ significantly according to the Least Significant Difference test (a=0.05).

26 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

TABLE 3

Cover Story continued

Mean percent roughstalk bluegrass injury in the second trial.

Trt. # Treatment Name 1 Nontreated 2 Xonerate + Capsil 3 Tenacity + Capsil 4 Xonerate + Tenacity + Capsil 5 Velocity + Capsil 6 Xonerate + Pylex + MSO 7 Xonerate + Prograss + MSO 8 Prograss 9 Acclaim Extra + Capsil 10 Fusilade II + Capsil LSD P=0.05

Rate 5.6 0.25 8 0.25 5.6 8 0.25 6 0.25 5.6 1.5 1 5.6 1.5 1 1.5 20 0.25 6 0.25

fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A fl oz/A % v/v oz/A % v/v fl oz/A fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A lb a.i./A % v/v lb a.i./A fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A % v/v

6 DAITz 0 ey 4 cd

Percent roughstalk bluegrass control 14 DAIT 22 DAIT 30 DAIT 42 DAIT 0 cd 0 d 1 d 1 d 6 cd 18 bc 30 c 41 bc

50 DAIT 3 c 48 b

3 cd

7 c

5 cd

4 d

0 d

1 c

15 a

38 a

59 a

65 a

74 a

75 a

0 e

1 cd

4 cd

7 d

3 d

0 c

9 b

20 b

53 a

51 ab

69 a

85 a

6 bc

14 b

34 b

46 abc

74 a

78 a

0 e 1 de

0 d 4 cd

3 cd 21 b

1 d 33 bc

0 d 20 cd

1 c 3 c

1 de

3 cd

19 bc

40 bc

56 ab

43 b

3

6

17

20

22

26

z DAIT = Days after initial treatment March 30, 2016. y Means are the average of four replicates. Means followed by the same letter do not differ significantly according to the Least Significant Difference test (a=0.05).

TABLE 4

Mean percent tall fescue injury in the second trial.

Trt. # Treatment Name 1 Nontreated 2 Xonerate + Capsil 3 Tenacity + Capsil 4 Xonerate + Tenacity + Capsil 5 Velocity + Capsil 6 Xonerate + Pylex + MSO 7 Xonerate + Prograss + MSO 8 Prograss 9 Acclaim Extra + Capsil 10 Fusilade II + Capsil LSD P=0.05

Rate 5.6 0.25 8 0.25 5.6 8 0.25 6 0.25 5.6 1.5 1 5.6 1.5 1 1.5 20 0.25 6 0.25

fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A % v/v

% v/v fl oz/A lb a.i./A % v/v lb a.i./A fl oz/A % v/v fl oz/A % v/v

6 DAITz 0 ay

Percent tall fescue injury (%) 22 DAIT 30 DAIT 42 DAIT 0 c 0 e 0 c 2 bc 5 de 2 bc

0 a

14 DAIT 0 a 0 a

50 DAIT 8 a 1 bc

0 a

0 a

3 bc

0 e

0 c

4 abc

0 a

0 a

5 b

8 cd

13 ab

1 bc

0 a

0 a

2 bc

2 de

0 c

8 a

0 a

1 a

5 b

16 b

6 bc

0 c

0 a

1 a

5 b

14 bc

5 bc

1 bc

0 a 0 a

0 a 0 a

2 bc 5 b

0 e 3 de

0 c 1 bc

6 a 8 a

0 a

0 a

17 a

38 a

24 a

5 ab

0

1

5

7

12

5

z DAIT = Days after initial treatment March 30, 2016. y Means are the average of four replicates. Means followed by the same letter do not differ significantly according to the Least Significant Difference test (a=0.05).

• Velocity + Capsil • Xonerate + Pylex + methylated seed oil (MSO) • Xonerate + Prograss + MSO • Prograss • Acclaim Extra + Capsil All herbicide treatments were repeated three weeks after the initial application. Visual ratings were used to assess tall fescue and roughstalk bluegrass injury throughout the study.

Our results In both trials, no single herbicide achieved more than 56% control of roughstalk bluegrass (Tables 1 and 3).

However, the combinations of Xonerate + Tenacity, Xonerate + Pylex and Xonerate + Prograss were able to achieve 99%, 99% and 85% control of roughstalk bluegrass 50 days after the initial treatment (DAIT), respectively, in the first trial. In the second trial, these combinations achieved 75%, 85% and 74% control of roughstalk bluegrass, respectively (Table 3).

Although these combinations were the most effective at controlling roughstalk bluegrass, they also caused significant injury to tall fescue. Injury ranged from 13% to 21% from the first trial (Table 2) to 13% to 16% for the second trial (Table 4) at approximately 1 week after the second application (30 days after the first application). Tall fescue had outgrown the injury by a month after the second application.

Turf managers will need to accept some turf injury if they plan to use these combination treatments. It would be best to try out these treatments on a small scale before widespread use to determine tall fescue tolerance under your conditions.

Future plans We seeded strips of roughstalk bluegrass again this past fall (2016) and plan to continue evaluating control options for this weed in spring 2017.

We would like to thank the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation and the Virginia Turfgrass Council for their continued support of our turfgrass research program at the station.

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 27

Applied Research

Soil Testing and Potassium Fertilizer Recommendations for Golf Courses

By Max Schlossberg, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Turfgrass Nutrition & Soil Fertility, Penn State University

S

oil fertility testing is a valuable agronomic tool comprised of four steps: sampling, analysis, interpretation and recommendation.

Sampling practice is fairly straightforward. Perhaps modified in regard to depth (e.g., by rooting depth of species or need for subsoil investigation), sampling accuracy increases with the number of soil cores sampled from the area of interest.

The next stage is analysis, and “routine” soil fertility analysis affords little artistic liberty. Submitted soils are dried and homogenized before being mixed with an extraction solution. Typically chosen on the basis of regional parent material or sample soil pH, extraction solutions include

Mehlich-1, Bray P-1, Morgan and Mehlich-3. Their purpose is to rapidly displace nutrients from soil and stabilize them in soluble forms, facilitating precise measure of solution nutrient concentrations by state-of-the-art analytical equipment. Success through the first half of the soil fertility-testing process relies on consistency, and this is something I believe we can all agree upon. If only the second half were so easy.

Interpretation Interpretation is simple characterization of soil pH and nutrient availability levels by keywords such as very low, deficient/low, adequate/optimal/ medium, supra-optimal/high and

28 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

excessive/very high. Soil nutrient levels are typically interpreted by one, or both, of the predominant methodologies; the base cation saturation ratio (BCSR) or sufficiency level of available nutrients (SLAN). The SLAN method interprets assessed soil nutrient levels relative to sufficiency levels in parts per million soil, and it is, in my opinion, the superior method (Schlossberg, 2012). It is important to recognize that sufficiency levels for every nutrient have been, and always will be, open to interpretation by individual laboratories and consultants.

Hence the term: interpretation.

It’s implied!

Such inherency was mindfully illustrated by Turner & Waddington (1978), who sent seven homogenous soil sam-

Applied Research continued

FIGURE 1 Textural class*

CL C CL SiCL

Potassium availabilities and recommendations for a maintained Kentucky bluegrass lawn by soil (pH range of 6.0 to 6.7), homogenized and split for submission to five soil testing laboratories (adapted from Turner & Waddington, 1978).

Lab A Available Rec. mg K /kg lbs K/M

Lab B Available Rec. mg K /kg lbs K/M

Lab C Available Rec. mg K /kg lbs K/M

Lab D Available Rec. mg K /kg lbs K/M

Lab E Available Rec. mg K /kg lbs K/M

98 (L) 82 (L) 258 (VH) 269 (VH)

86 (M) 92 (H) 240 (VH) 266 (VH)

48 (M) 58 (M) 144 (H) 157 (VH)

62 (M) 65 (M) 171 (VH) 187 (VH)

76 (M) 79 (M) 200 (H) 164 (H)

3.3 3.3 0.0 0.0

2.5 1.7 0.8 0.8

2.5 2.5 1.7 0.0

2.7 2.0 0.0 0.0

1.2 1.2 0.7 0.7

All Labs Available Rec. Rating Mode lbs K/M

M M VH VH

1.2-2.7 1.2-2.5 0-0.8 0-0.8

*, CL=clay loam, C=clay, SiCL=silty clay loam; US Dept. of Agriculture. †, Soil test potassium (K) or K availability, in mg K / kg soil (or ppm soil).

ples to seven labs and summarized the resulting soil test nutrient levels, interpretations and recommendations.

Results of five lab analyses on four similar soils are presented here (Figure1).

Perhaps the most admirable feature of their report, particularly in current context, was the authors’ ostensibly objective summation of factors contributing to the observed discrepancies.

This afforded a perfect segue to their undoubtedly original survey objective: justifying the need for future field calibration studies to improve turfgrass fertilizer recommendations. In their comprehensive understanding of soiltesting components and procedure, Turner & Waddington (1978) refrained from “calling out” associated universities as antiquated or environmentally irresponsible. They simply recognized varying soil test-level interpretations (and recommendations) for what they are, an array of good-faith opinions provided in support of effective turfgrass nutrition and management.

Recommendation When soil test levels are observed below a given nutrient sufficiency level, SLANbased recommendations provide a nutrient delivery rate on a pre-plant or annual maintenance basis. This rate typically rectifies the difference between the current and sufficient soil nutrient level, or it comprises the soil rectifying rate plus a quantity estimated to satisfy seasonal “crop removal” of that nutrient. These approaches are referred to as “sufficiency” or “buildup and maintain,” respectively. Recommendations may be further adjusted with consideration for the resident

turfgrass species/cultivar(s), irrigation water quality, soil pH, seasonal climate and associated cultural inputs.

Carrow et al. (2001) encourage managers to treat soil test recommendations as guidelines. The basis of their candor being inherent variation among methods, interpretation and recommendations precludes characterization of soil testing for turf as an exact science. Did you hear that? It sounded like 500 consultants screaming blasphemy!

Carrow et al. (2001) go on to offer guidance on improved methods by classifying such variations as merited or problematic. The latter includes basing fertilizer recommendations solely on replenishment by ratios of nutrients removed in clippings, as this approach neglects mineralized N contributions as well as nutrient fixation and/or leaching mechanisms that influence loss or reduced availability of applied nutrients. By which I offer this analogy: one fewer jar of mashed peas on the shelf doesn’t mean all its original contents now reside in our 7-monthold’s stomach (rather, some covers our clothes, floor and highchair).

Is potassium special?

It is my opinion that plant recovery of most soil-tested macronutrients (P, K, Ca, Mg and S), when delivered to a turfgrass system at appropriate rates, under ideal conditions and using suitable fertilizer/limestone products is highly dependable. Yet K is routinely implicated as the soiltested macronutrient least-dependably recovered by turfgrass following a fertilizer application (Carrow et al., 2001). A quote from Meentemeyer and

30 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Whitlark (2016) — “…a potassium fertilizer application does not necessarily result in higher potassium levels in the plant…” — reiterates concern for K fertilizer fate.

In addition to fate and availability concerns, potassium’s significant role in turfgrass susceptibility to abiotic stress and disease impels its emphasis in this article. In season, K sufficiency of intensively maintained turfgrass supports water-use efficiency and tolerance to both elevated temperature and sodium levels (Carrow et al. 2001).

Likewise, field research has correlated anthracnose suppression in annual bluegrass with both leaf clipping K and underlying soil test K levels (Schmid et al., 2015).

Potassium sufficiency also influences a/biotic tolerance between seasons.

Following an abnormally harsh winter of 2014–15 in the NE U.S., annual bluegrass putting green plots yielding leaf clippings with 2.6% to 3.1% K content in mid-September, demonstrated significantly greater winter survival and spring recovery relative to adjacent plots that yielded leaf clippings with only 1.3% K content the previous fall (Schmid et al., 2016).

However, significant incidence of gray snow mold on putting greens has been observed in direct relation to a fertilization range of 0 to 3.0 lbs.

K2O/M–month, when applied three or more months prior to winter dormancy (Moody, 2011; Woods, 2006).

Thus, winter preparation of putting greens requires superintendents to consider the likelihood of extended ice encasement and weigh the implications of snow mold versus crown hydration injury.

Applied Research continued

FIGURE 2

Suggested seven (7) growing-month seasonal distribution of K2O fertilizer as % annual N rate to irrigated golf course putting greens & tees in USDA Hardiness Zones 1a–6b; by turfgrass species, irrigation quality and soil test levels of potassium (K).

Creeping Bentgrass Putting Greens & Tees

Annual Bluegrass Putting Greens & Tees

Irrigation Type

Irrigation Type

Normal/Good Quality

*Hard and/or Effluent

Normal/Good Quality

Hard and/or Effluent

Soil Test K†, mg/kg

Soil Test K, mg/kg

Soil Test K, mg/kg

Soil Test K, mg/kg

≤ 90

≤ 75

≤ 90

≤ 75

> 75

> 90

Suggested K2O fertilization as % of annual N fertilization rate (w/w)

> 75

> 90

Suggested K2O fertilization as % of annual N fertilization rate (w/w)

Months 1 thru 2

15%

15%

20%

15%

15%

10%

15%

15%

Months 3 thru 5

40%

30%

50%

45%

40%

35%

55%

45%

Months 6 thru 7

20%

15%

20%

15%

25%

20%

30%

25%

TOTAL

75%

60%

90%

75%

80%

60%

100%

85%

*, Irrigation H2O pH >7.4, Ca+Mg >40 mg/L, and bicarbonate (HCO3-) >150 mg/L; and/or total dissolved solids (TDS) level >800 mg/L. †, Soil test potassium (K) in the upper 0-4 or 0-6 inches as determined by ammonium acetate or Mehlich-3 extraction.

Considering all this and K’s rank of 2nd among turfgrass mineral nutrient requirements by mass, I suggest annual K2O deliveries between 60% and 100% of total annual N fertilizer applied to irrigated cool-season turfgrass maintained as golf course putting greens and tees (Figure 2). Similarly formatted K suggestions for coolseason turfgrass sports fields are supported in greater detail elsewhere (Schlossberg, 2015).

Newfangled acronyms and the ʻSʼ word Succinctly defined as cost-effective, ecologically protective and indefinitely productive, “sustainable” doesn’t reside on the wieldy or “light fare” end of the modern buzzword spectrum. Suggesting herculean practicality and unsustainability of every alternative, the word “sustainable” also implies originality and, in my opinion, is best reserved for use in “optimistic” or “goaloriented” context.

Which begs the questions — how uniquely original is the theory underlying modish derivatives of SLAN, and just how unsustainable are soil test recommendations provided by labs who haven’t adopted them? Specifics 32 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Applied Research continued

FIGURE 3

Routine soil test ($9) and organic matter ($5) analysis, interpretation and recommendations provided by PSU-AASL to Penn State Golf Courses (with permission of Mr. Rick Pagett and PSU-AASL).

of a minimum level of sustainable nutrition (MLSN) guideline (Woods et al., 2014) reveal a SLAN-based interpretation method, albeit intriguingly observational, followed by a two-step fertilizer recommendation procedure that falls squarely within the confines of customary buildup and maintain philosophy. I have difficulty imaging anyone who has earned credit in a college-level soil fertility course would refute the accuracy of this fundamental characterization.

Figure 3 shows all the information and results of a soil test procedure, conducted and provided by the Penn State Univ. Agric. Anal. Serv. Lab. (PSU-AASL). Using the MLSN interpretation and P, K, Ca and Mg fertilizer recommendation guidelines (Meentemeyer and Whitlark, 2016; Woods et al., 2014) for comparison, initiated readers may have difficulty concluding that “shopworn” SLANbased recommendations provided by institutional labs are any less costeffective, environmentally responsible, or indefinitely supportive of turfgrass nutrition and health.

Conclusion There is nothing new under the sun, and soil testing remains less than an exact science. It is my opinion that of all the current SLAN-based approaches, none universally supersedes the merit of any other. I conclude by reiterating the opinion of respected turfgrass scientists I first read 15 years ago and have been teaching at Penn State ever since — soil testing is a valuable tool and should be conducted annually.

Be consistent in regard to sampling depth and selection of a SLANsupporting soil test lab. Resulting fertilizer recommendations should be considered as guidelines, best complemented by knowledge of nutrient roles in turfgrass, chemical properties of your irrigation water and fertilizers, and ongoing nutritional assessment.

The latter component is aptly satisfied by submitting uncontaminated leaf tissue samples from all, or at least your best- and worst-performing, putting greens in early summer. Supply nutrients in frequent doses, keep records of inputs and performance, and make modifications as you see fit.

34 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

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Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 35

Equipment Basics

Snow Blower Safety Tips: Keep Best Practices in Mind This Winter From the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute

W

ith winter snows arriving, many turf professionals will again rely on their snow blowers to clear driveways and walks.

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) is offering tips for safe and correct use of snow blowers.

“Your indispensable winter friend, the snow blower is ready to be powered up, and it’s important to keep safety in mind,” says OPEI president and CEO Kris Kiser. “Be sure to prepare and consider the following tips before you use your equipment.”

Prepare before it snows.

Review your owner’s manual, and check your equipment.

Check your owner’s manual for safe handling procedures from your manufacturer. If you forgot to drain the fuel last winter before storing your snow blower, drain the tank now. Adjust any cables. Check the auger (the snow blower should always be completely powered off when you are checking the equipment). Know how to operate the controls. You should be able to shut off your equipment quickly.

Prepare your fuel, and handle it properly.

It’s important to have the right fuel on hand for your snow blower — movement and fuel availability may be limited during a snowstorm. Be sure to use the correct fuel, as recommended by your equipment’s manufacturer (for more information on fueling properly see www.lookbeforeyoupump.com).

Fill up the fuel tank outside before you start the engine and while the engine is cold. Never add fuel to a running or hot engine.

Be sure to clean the area you intend to clear with your equipment.

Snow can sometimes hide objects that if run over by a snow blower, may harm the machine or people. Doormats, hoses, balls, toys, boards, wires and other debris should be removed from the areas you intend to clear.

Dress appropriately.

Wear safety glasses and footwear that can handle slippery surfaces.

Operate your equipment safely.

KEY SAFETY TIP: Never put your hands inside the auger or chute.

Use a clean-out tool (or stick) to unclog snow or debris from your snow blower. Your hands should never go inside the auger or chute. Make sure the snow blower is in the off position before addressing any clogs.

Turn OFF your snow blower if you need to clear a clog.

If you need to remove debris or unclog snow, always turn off your snow blower first. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop before clearing any clogs or debris.

Only use your snow blower in visible conditions.

36 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org

Never operate the snow blower without good visibility or light.

Aim your snow blower with care.

Never throw snow toward people or cars. Do not allow anyone to stand in front of your snow blower. Keep children or pets away from your snow blower when it is operating.

Use extreme caution on slopes and hills.

Use caution when changing directions on slopes. Do not attempt to clear steep slopes.

Know where your cord is.

If you have an electric-powered snow blower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times. Avoid tripping. Do not run over the power cord.

More safety tips and information are available at www.opei.org.

About OPEI The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) is an international trade association representing more than 100 power equipment, engine and utility vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. OPEI is the advocacy voice of the industry and a recognized Standards Development Organization for the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). It is active internationally through the International Standards Organization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in the development of safety and performance standards.

Advertisers Index Agronomic Lawn Management ............. 35 www.fertilizerwithalm.com

Ernst Conservation Seeds ......................... 6 www.ernstseed.com

Modern Turf, Inc. ................................... 38 www.modernturf.com

Ballard Sports .......................................... 35 www.ballardsports.com

Fisher & Son Company Inc. ................... 21 www.fisherandson.com

Perdue Agrirecycle, LLC ........................ 29 www.perdueagrirecycle.com

Brouwer Kesmac ....................................... 5 www.kesmac.com

Harmon Turf Services, Inc. ...................... 3 www.harmonturfservices.com

Progressive Turf Equipment, Inc........... 37 www.progressiveturfequip.com

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

Home Field Fertilizer / Meadowspring Turf Farm ...................... 32 www.meadowspringturf.com

Revels Tractor Co. Inc. ........................... 25 www.revelstractor.com

Camp Chemical Corp. .............................. 9 Carolina Green Corp. ............................. 35 www.cgcfields.com Chesapeake Valley Seed ........................ 14 www.chesapeakevalleyseed.com Collins Wharf Sod Farm ......................... 11 www.collinswharfsod.com Colonial Farm Credit.............................. 35 www.colonialfarmcredit.com

KWMI / K & W Products, Inc. ............... 31 www.kwmiequipment.com Leading Edge Communications ............ 33 www.leadingedgecommunications.com Linne Industries ...................................... 13 www.linneindustries.com Luck Ecosystems...................................... 34 www.luckstone.com

DuraTurf Service Corp. .......................... 13

McGill Premium Compost ..................... 35 www.mcgillcompost.com

East Coast Sod & Seed ............................ 35 www.eastcoastsod.com

Mid-Atlantic STIHL, Inc. ........................ 23 www.STIHLdealers.com

Smith Seed Services ................................ 35 www.smithseed.com Smith Turf & Irrigation ........... Back Cover www.smithturf.com The Cutting Edge of VA ........................... 9 The Turfgrass Group .. Inside Front Cover, 7 www.theturfgrassgroup.com Weed Man ............................................... 35 www.weedmanfranchise.com Woodward Turf Farms, Inc. ..................... 8 www.woodwardturf.com

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 37

Turfgrass Calendar

Virginia Tech Turf Team

January 24–27, 2017

February 20–23

STMA Conference and Exhibition

TPI International Education Conference & Field Day

Orlando, FL

(Turfgrass Producers Intl.)

Saddlebrook Resort Tampa, Florida

January 30 – February 2, 2017 Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo

Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center Fredericksburg, VA

Come to the Bay

Jeffrey F. Derr, Ph.D.

Virginia Beach Resort Hotel Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Tech Hampton Roads Agricultural Research Station 1444 Diamond Springs Rd. Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (757) 363-3912 jderr@vt.edu

May 23–24, 2017 James Madison University Harrisonburg, VA

Golf Industry Show

Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL

Virginia Tech 435 Old Glade Road Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-5807 saskew@vt.edu

February 28 – March 1, 2017

Come to the Valley

February 4–9, 2017

Shawn D. Askew, Ph.D.

July 19-22 TPI Summer Program

(In conjunction with the 2017 International Turfgrass Research Conference) The Heldrich New Brunswick, NJ

Erik H. Ervin, Ph.D.

Virginia Tech 339 Smyth Hall, CSES Dept.

Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-5208 ervin@vt.edu

Mike Goatley Jr., Ph.D.

Virginia Tech 420 Smyth Hall, CSES Dept.

Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-2951 goatley@vt.edu

David McCall, Ph.D.

Virginia Tech 435 Old Glade Road Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-9598 dsmccall@vt.edu

WITH SUPPORT FROM: Thomas P. Kuhar, Ph.D.

Virginia Tech Dept. of Entomology 216 Price Hall 170 Drillfield Drive Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-6129 tkuhar@vt.edu 38 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2017 www.vaturf.org