Creeping Bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) is the most widely used performance turf for putting greens in the temperate regions of the United States. Technological advances in breeding efforts since the mid-2000’s have produced cultivars of creeping bentgrass that are, in general, far superior to their predecessors for a variety of reasons including increased density and tolerance to lower mowing heights. These advances have led many golf courses to consider renovation to these new cultivars, however not many studies have been performed to investigate factors that may expedite the establishment process. Two field studies were performed at Michigan State University investigating the effect of various cultural practices and chemical treatments on the establishment of Agrostis stolonifera L. ‘Pure Distinction’. The first study included four factors (initial mowing height of cut, nitrogen fertilizer application rate, plant growth regulator application, and vertical mowing), and the second study included three factors (nitrogen fertilizer application rate, wetting agent application, and brushing). Turf color and chlorophyll content index were enhanced with each increase in fertilizer rate, but a maximum was observed regarding percent cover. PGR treatment had a delayed but positive effect on turf chlorophyll content index. Vertical mowing and frequent wetting agent applications hindered turf development. Mowing height of cut and brushing treatments had little or no effect on turf quality.
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