REMOTE ”   , *= 
STORAGE g   ..

GAN

Illllluj

l’

unlgllljilluullllli‘rll

93 99 6701

This is to certify that the

thesis entitled

Establishment and Fertility
Comparisons of Trafficked
Athletic Turf with Sand Based Rootzones

presented by

Thomas Mark Kr ick

has been accepted towards fulfillment

of the requirements for
Crop and

Master of Science degree in Soil Science

/

 

1
Major p ssor

 

Date 37%? /79§

0-7639 MS U is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution

 

 

 

 

 

LIBRARY
Michigan State
Unlverslty

 

 

 

REMOTE STORAGE

PLACE IN RETURN BOX to remove this checkout from your record.
TO AVOID FINES return on or before date due.

a 4DATE DUE DATE DUE DATE DUE
£315 1 5 2573

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#—
2/17 208 Blue FORMS/DateDueForms_2017.indd - 09.5

 

ESTABLISHMENT AND FERTILITY
COMPARISONS OF TRAFFICKED
ATHLETIC TURF WITH SAND BASED ROOTZONES
By

Thomas Mark Krick

A THESIS

Submitted to
Michigan State University
in partial fulfillment Of the requirements
for the degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCE

Department Of Crop and Soil Science

1995

ABSTRACT

ESTABLISHMENT AND FERTILITY
COMPARISONS OF TRAFFICKED
ATHLETIC TURF WITH SAND BASED ROOTZONES

By

Thomas Mark Krick

Many newly constructed athletic fields are making use Of sand based rootzones. These
systems alleviate compaction and anaerobic conditions while simultaneously increase water
infiltration and percolation and maximize rooting. When these fields are properly constructed
and maintained they are highly regarded by athletes and fans alike. They provide for a
superior surface on which to compete and are aesthetically pleasing. But if imprOperly built
and established hastily they can be unsafe and unplayable.

Three studies were conducted at Michigan State University’s Hancock Turfgrass
Research Center in which common establishment methods and fertility requirements of
trafficked athletic turfs in sand rootzones were evaluated. A simulated athletic field situation
established with washed Kentucky bluegrass (Poa prarensis) provided significantly better
color, density, quality, and shear measures compared to a turfgrass stand established with
perennial ryegrass (Loiium perenne) seed. Complete fertilizers having l-2-l analysis ratios
provided the best turf. Other than traction. significantly higher ratings were obtained with
fertilizer treatments having the highest amounts Of nitrogen and potassium. The final study
indicated that a Kentucky bluegrass/perennial ryegrass sod mix grown initially on plastic
provides a superior athletic surface when established on a sand based rootzone. The benefit
of lateral topgrowth was Observed in applying a plant growth regulator (PGR) to sod

immediately after esrablishment with nO detriment tO rOOt biomass.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to express my thanks to Dr. LN. Rogers III, my advisor and
graduate committee chair, for the opportunity to work with him and learn a great deal
about turfgrass and people. His Strong drive in attaining his goals motivated me to do
likewise in reaching some of mine. I also thank Drs. LR. Crum, P.E. Rieke, and
J.M. Vargas for their insights and advice which maximized my graduate learning
experience. I would also like to recognize the Michigan State University support staff
for their time and efforts as well as the Institute Of Agriculture Technology for
providing me the position of graduate teaching assistant.

I extend my gratitude to my friends and family who have supported me in this
endeavor. And most importantly to my wife Sarah, for all of her patience and love,

and being my best friend.

iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Bag:
List of Tables ....................................................................... v
List Of Figures ...................................................................... x
Chapter One: Establishment Methods and Nutrient Requirements
of Athletic Turf in Sand Based Rootzones .................. 1
Abstract ..................................................................... 1
Introduction ................................................................ 2
Materials and Methods ................................................... 8
Results and Discussion ................................................... 17
Literature Cited ........................................................... 43
Chapter Two: Nitrogen and Potassium Fertility of a Sand Based
Rootzone Athletic Field Turf .................................. 46
Abstract ..................................................................... 46
Introduction ................................................................ 47
Materials and Methods ................................................... 50
Results and Discussion ................................................... 53
Literature Cited ........................................................... 67
Chapter Three: Sod Strategies for Establishing Athletic Turf
with Sand Based Rootzones .................................. 70
Abstract ..................................................................... 70
Introduction ................................................................ 71
Materials and Methods ................................................... 75
Results and Discussion ................................................... 77
Literature Cited ........................................................... 96
Appendix:
Tables A-H: Statistically Significant Effects (Chapter 1) .......... 98
Tables 1-0: Statistically Significant Effects (Chapter 3) ........... 106

iv

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

1.7

1.8

1.9

1.10

1.12

LIST OF TABLES

Ease

Sand content of PAT field rootmix at Michigan State University ....... 8
Fertilizer treatments for establishment and fertility study ................. 9
Composite soil test results Of PAT field rootmix at

Michigan State University............ ........................................... 12
The effects Of establishment method, fiber, and fertilizer

treatment on trafficked and non-trafficked turfgrass color ................ 18
The effect of establishment method X fertilizer treatment

interaction on non-trafficked turfgrass color, 12 May 1993 .............. 21
The effect of fiber X fertilizer treatment interaction on

non-trafficked turfgrass color, 1993 ........................................... 21
The effect Of fiber X establishment method interaction

on non-trafficked turfgrass color, 27 May 1993 ............................ 22
The effects of establishment method, fiber and fertilizer

treatment interaction on trafficked turfgrass color,

28 October 1992 .................................................................. 22
The effects Of establishment method, fiber, and fertilizer

treatment interaction on trafficked turfgrass color,

26 October 1993 .................................................................. 23
The effects of establishment method, fiber, and fertilizer

treatment on trafficked and non-trafficked turfgrass density .............. 25
The effect of establishment method X fertilizer treatment

interaction on non-trafficked turfgrass density .............................. 26
The effects Of establishment method, fiber and fertilizer

treatment on trafficked and nontrafficked turfgrass quality ............... 28

11121: 2:29
1.13 The effect Of establishment method X fertilizer treatment

interaction on non-trafficked turfgrass quality, 12 May 1993 ............ 30
1.14 The effect Of fiber X fertilizer treatment interaction on
non-trafficked turfgrass quality, 27 May 1993 .............................. 30

1.15 The effect Of establishment method X fiber interaction on
non-trafficked turfgrass quality, 27 May 1993 .............................. 33

1.16 The effect Of fertilizer treatment on soil phosphorus and
potassium levels, Nov. 1993 ................................................... 33

1.17 The effects Of establishment method, fiber, and fertilizer
treatment on trafficked turfgrass root biomass, Nov. 1993 ............... 34

1.18 The effects Of establishment method, fiber, and fertilizer
treatment on non-trafficked turfgrass clipping yields ...................... 35

1.19 The effect Of fertilizer treatment on plant tissue
nutrient levels ..................................................................... 36

1.20 The effects Of establishment method, fiber and fertilizer
treatment on trafficked turfgrass shear measures ........................... 38

1.21 The effects of establishment method, fiber and fertilizer
treatment on non-trafficked turfgrass shear measures ...................... 39

2.1 Total N and K20 applied, Sept-Nov. 1993, May-Nov. 1994 ............ 51

2.2 The effect Of nitrogen and potassium fertility on
trafficked perennial ryegrass color ............................................ 54

2.3 The effect Of nitrogen and potassium fertility on
perennial ryegrass quality prior to and under
trafficked conditions .............................................................. 56

2.4 The effect of nitrogen and potassium fertility on
trafficked perennial ryegrass density .......................................... 57

2.5 The effect of nitrogen and potassium fertility on 1993
perennial ryegrass shear measures ............................................. 59

2.6 The effect Of nitrogen and potassium fertility on 1994
perennial ryegrass shear measures ............................................. 60

2.7 The effect Of nitrogen and potassium fertility on
perennial ryegrass tissue nutrients ............................................. 61

vi

nu: Base

2.8 The effect of nitrogen and potassium fertility on
perennial ryegrass clipping yields ............................................. 63

2.9 Root biomass for respective fertility treatments in Nov. 1994 ........... 64

2.10 The effect of nitrogen and potassium fertility on red thread
(Laetisaria fiiciformis) susceptibility in perennial ryegrass ................ 65

3.1 The effect of sod treatment and plant growth regulator on
trafficked and non—trafficked turfgrass color ................................ 78

3.2 The effect Of sod treatment X plant growth regulator
interaction on trafficked and nontrafficked turfgrass color ............... 79

3.3 The effect of sod treatment and plant growth regulator on
trafficked and non-trafficked turfgrass density .............................. 82

3.4 The effect of sod treatment X plant growth regulator interaction
on trafficked and non-trafficked turfgrass density .......................... 83

3.5 The effect Of sod treatment and plant growth regulator on
trafficked and non-trafficked turfgrass quality .............................. 86

3.6 The effect Of sod treatment X plant growth regulator interaction
on trafficked and non-trafficked turfgrass quality .......................... 87

3.7 The effect Of sod treatments and plant growth regulator on
non-trafficked turfgrass shear measures ...................................... 91

3.8 The effect of sod treatments and plant growth regulator on
trafficked turfgrass shear measures ............................................ 92

3.9 The effect Of sod treatments and plant growth regulator on
trafficked turfgrass root biomass, 15 Dec. 1994 ............................ 94

3.10 The effect Of sod treatments and plant growth regulator
on trafficked turfgrass verdure, 25 Oct. 1994 ............................... 94

vii

Appendix 12m

A Statistically significant effects of establishment method,
fiber, and fertilizer treatment on trafficked and non-trafficked
turfgrass color, chapter 1 ....................................................... 98

B Statistically significant effects of establishment method,
fiber, and fertilizer treatment on trafficked and non-trafficked
turfgrass density, chapter 1 ..................................................... 99

C Statistically significant effects Of establishment method,
fiber, and fertilizer treatment on trafficked and non-trafficked
turfgrass quality, chapter 1 ..................................................... 100

D Statistically significant effects Of establishment method,
fiber, and fertilizer treatment on soil phosphorus and
potassium levels, chapter 1 ..................................................... 101

E Statistically significant effects Of establishment method,
fiber, and fertilizer treatment on trafficked turfgrass root
biomass, chapter 1 ................................................................ 102

F Statistically significant effects Of establishment method,
fiber, and fertilizer treatment on non-trafficked turfgrass
clipping yields, chapter 1 ....................................................... 103

G Statistically significant effects Of establishment method, fiber,
and fertilizer treatment on plant tissue nutrient levels, chapter 1 ........ 104

H Statistically significant effects Of establishment method, fiber
and fertilizer treatment on turfgrass shear measures, chapter 1 .......... 105

I Statistically significant effects Of sod treatment and plant growth
regulator on trafficked and non-trafficked turfgrass color, chapter 3... 106

J Statistically significant effects Of sod treatment and
plant growth regulator on trafficked and non-trafficked
turfgrass density, chapter 3 ..................................................... 106

K Statistically significant effects Of sod treatment and
plant growth regulator on trafficked and non-trafficked
turfgrass quality, chapter 3 ..................................................... 107

L Statistically significant effects Of sod treatments and

plant growth regulator on non-trafficked turfgrass
shear measures, chapter 3 ....................................................... 108

viii

Em

Statistically significant effects Of sod treatments and
plant growth regulator on trafficked turfgrass
shear measures, chapter 3 ....................................................... 108

Statistically significant effects Of sod treatments and
plant growth regulator on trafficked turfgrass root biomass,
chapter 3 ........................................................................... 109

Statistically significant effects Of sod treatments and

plant growth regulator on trafficked turfgrass verdure,
chapter 3 ....................................................................... 109

ix

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

1.7

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

LIST OF FIGURES

B2:

Prescription Athletic Turf (PAT) profile ..................................... 10
Brinkman Traffic Simulator .................................................... 13
Eijkelkamp type 13 field shear apparatus .................................... 16
The effect Of establishment method X fertility treatment

interaction on non-trafficked turfgrass color, 12 May 1993 .............. 19
The effect Of establishment method X fertility treatment

interaction on trafficked turfgrass density, 28 Oct. 1992 ................. 27
The effect of fiber X fertility treatment interaction

on non-trafficked turfgrass quality, 27 May 1993 .......................... 31
The effect of establishment method X fiber interaction

on trafficked turfgrass shear resistance, 17 Sept. 1993 .................... 40
The effect Of sod treatment X plant growth regulator

interaction on non-trafficked turfgrass color, 2 Sept. 1994 ............... 80
The effect Of sod treatment X plant growth regulator

interaction on trafficked turfgrass density, 23 Sept. 1994 ................ 85
The effect Of sod treatment X plant growth regulator

interaction on trafficked turfgrass quality, 16 Sept. 1994 ................. 88
The effect Of sod treatment X plant growth regulator

interaction on trafficked turfgrass quality, 9 Nov. 1994 .................. 89

CHAPTER ONE

Establishment Methods and Nutrient Requirements
of Athletic Turf in Sand Based Rootzones.

ABSTRACT

The establishment phase Of athletic fields, especially high sand based rootzone
systems like Prescription Athletic Turf (PAT) systems, is critical to their success. If
established hastily and improperly these fields will likely fail due to poor and unsafe
playing conditions. Athletic fields in cool season grass regions are commonly
established by sodding with Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) or mding with
perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne). The establishment method of Kentucky
bluegrass sodding with soil removed had significantly higher color, density, quality,
and shear ratings compared to the seeded perennial ryegrass method. Polypropylene
fibers (VHAF), which were placed at the soil surface prior to establishment resulted
in significant quality improvements late in the study. The fibers also increased shear
measures and at no time were detrimental. Complete fertilizers (N-P-K) provided
significantly higher turfgrass color, density, and quality ratings compared to slow
release, single nutrient carriers. The slow release fertilizer treatments in combination
with the perennial ryegrass seeding establishment method had significantly lower color

and density ratings in comparison to fast release fertilizer treatments.

2

Establishment Methods and Nutrient Requirements
of Athletic Turf in Sand Based Rootzones.

Introduction

As the interest in physical fitness and sports involvement continue to increase
across the nation so to does the need for quality athletic fields. The challenge faced
by today’s field manager is to provide a high quality field usually under adverse
conditions. This challenge is mainly due to a high use period immediately following
establishment. The establishment stage of an athletic field is very critical. If done
improperly the field will not perform up to its intended level and will not satisfy the
needs of its users. Within the past two decades, athletic fields have been constructed
with sand based rootzones. Sands are utilized because, even after frequent foot traffic
and aggregation, they maintain their porosity thus allowing for sufficient water and air
to plant roots (Bingaman and Kohnke, 1970). One design currently being
implemented with sand media is the Prescription Athletic Turf (PAT) system. The
PAT system was developed at Purdue University by Dr. W.H. Daniel in response to
the need for a safe and consistent playing athletic surface (Daniel and Freeborg,
1979).

Sand rootzones can tolerate compaction and provide good water percolation
and air infiltration (Cockerham et al., 1994). The ranges of sand shape and size are
very important. A particle size analysis is the foundation on which the technical
platform for a turf system assessment is built (Dixon, 1994). Size and distribution of
sand particles also influence the porosity, infiltration rate and available water content

of the mixture (Duble and Brown, 1976). Sand should be uniform in size distribution

3
and its shape should have some angularity for increased stability (Baker, 1991). If

only sand is used for sports field construction, one particle size distribution suggested
is that the sands lie mainly within the range 0.10-0.60mm (Adams et al., 1971).
However, sand does have some drawbacks. These include; little water and nutrient
holding capacity, chemical inertness, and turfgrass establishment difficulties. Sand
also lacks cohesiveness or binding ability (Gibbs, 1990). If or when a sand

based athletic field’s performance begins to fail it is often due to its instability.
Irrigation and fertility can overcome most setbacks except for improved soil stability
(Gibbs, 1990). Research has demonstrated that roots increased the shear resistance of
sandy rootzones by a factor of 2-3, an effect which is much greater than could be
achieved by increasing silt and clay content over an acceptable range (Adams et al.,
1985). Related work indicated that greater turf cover leads to greater rooting, and
consequently, an increase in resistance to shear (Rogers et al., 1988). This trend of
traction decrease as above ground biomass deteriorated has been confirmed for warm ‘
season species as well (Dunn et al., 1994). Shear studies have also been conducted
on media other than sand. Zebarth and Sheard (1985) stated that soil based mixes
tend to have higher resistance to shear than do sands.

It is commonly held that the first key to ensuring turfgrass establishment
success should be a soil test to Obtain soil pH and phosphorus levels (Turner, 1992).
After Obtaining soil test results a decision must be made as to the turf species desired,
for it is then that the information can be put to use. Athletic fields may be
established through seeding, sodding, or sprigging. In cool season turfgrass regions

seeding or sodding typically occurs. Sports field construction, particularly in major

4
facilities, often incurs a heavy financial debt. The PAT system described earlier, for

example, has an expense approximately five times that of a conventional field
construction. For this reason sod installation occurs more Often at major facilities to
have them Operating as soon as possible in order to gain profits (Cockerham et a1. ,
1993). PAT fields are typically constructed in spring prior to fall use. This leaves
approximately three months for establishment which also explains why sodding is
used. Advantages to sodding include instant green color and aesthetic erosion control
(Hall, 1984).

Rooting is critical tO successful field performance. The quicker turfgrass
rooting takes place the sooner the field can be put into use. For years, sod was
typically grown on organic or mineral soils. Sods grown on organic soil rooted into
underlying soil better than that produced on mineral soil (King and Beard, 1969). In
their study the mineral sod was grown on a loam soil and placed on a loamy sand,
which may have had a layering effect explaining the improved rooting of the organic
grown sod treatment. Recent improvements in sod farming and harvesting have
allowed for soil-less sod products. ”Soil-less” sods may be grown on a shallow layer
of organic mulch or compost underlain by plastic. When harvested, the plastic is
removed and there is no loss of roots. Another method used in obtaining soil-less sod
is to simply remove the soil by washing through use Of high pressure water jets.
Studies have confirmed a more rapid rate Of rooting from washed sod in comparison
to traditional sod with soil attached (Casimaty et al., 1993). Furthermore, washed
sod also had reduced surface hardness and better lateral shear strength than unwashed

sod. Finally, washed sod resulted in more favorable soil water infiltration rates.

5
The first criteria in selecting a turfgrass for heavily trafficked sites is its ability

to withstand the wear or abrasion eaused by cleats, foot, and mechanical. traffic
(Gaussoin, 1994). Gaussoin also indicated that warm season species are more wear-
tolerant than cool season grasses, partly because of tougher leaves and wider blades.
The second criteria is recuperative potential; rhizomatous and stoloniferous grasses
have greater recuperative potential than bunch-type grasses. For cool season grass
regions Kentucky bluegrass (KBG) and perennial ryegrass (PRG) as monostands or in
mixtures are accepted athletic field turf species due to their wear-tolerance
(Cockerham et al., 1989).

In recent years polypropylene fibers, also known as VHAF (Notts Sport Ltd.,
Leiccester, England) have been introduced in the soil sand profile with the intent of
improving stability. VHAF is a needlepunched geotextile fabric comprised of
vertical, horizontal, and angular fibers of polypropylene. It was primarily designed
to prolong turfgrass cover and stability within soccer field goalmouths (Dury, 1986).
Adams and Gibbs (1989) found that VHAF maintains stability and traction on sand
constructed fields even though the turf may be virtually destroyed. They also
reported that sowing half Of the seed under the VHAF had no significant effect on top
growth but doubled the amount of root produced under the VHAF and that seeds
germinating under the VHAF would have their roots protected from physical damage.
Gibbs (1990) later suggested that VHAF does not prevent turf destruction but only
maintains a firm stable surface. Other soil stabilizing products are on the market as
well. Beard and Sifers (1993) researched an interlocking mesh element that provides

a unique three-dimensional matrix for improving stabilization of high sand rootzones.

6
Three benefits were reported: a) increased root-zone turf stability b) improved field

quality, and c) enhanced turfgrass rootzone environment.

Another concern of sand media is low eation exchange capacity.
Quantitatively defined, eation exchange capacity (CEC) is the sum total of the
exchangeable cations that a soil can adsorb (Brady, 1990). The CBC of a given soil
is determined by relative amounts of different colloids and the CEC of these colloids.
Because sands have such low CECs they do not hold nutrients well and thus must be
tested often to check for nutrient levels. For this reason most sand media have little
or no nutrient supplying power and therefore require a full spectrum of nutrients for
turfgrass growth and development (Goss, 1987).

Organic soil amendments are frequently added to improve the physical and
chemical performance of soils. It is suggested that organic sources having fiber
contents greater than 45% may be excessively coarse and organic matter (O.M.)
incorporation rates should be selected so the final mix does not excwd 3.5% O.M. by
weight (McCoy, 1992). Peat is a widely used organic soil amendment often mixed
with sand. Some Of the benefits that it provides include:

- increased nutrient levels in soil

- improved aeration and moisture holding capacity

- assist in pH manipulation and

- expand microorganism populations (Kelly, 1989).

A turf not receiving adequate fertility will likely require annual renovation at a
cost much higher than a properly scheduled fertilizer program. The higher the sand
content of the rootzone the more frequently fertilizers will need to be applied. There

is a nwd to understand the particular nutritional implications of sandy rootzones.

Turfgrass performances do not only depend upon the physical and nutritional

7
environment but also by the nature and quality of turfgrass tissue that soil supports

(Adams, 1981). Certain elements are essential to plant growth, although each one is
credited with specific functions, it is important to understand the intrieate balance and
interrelation of the entire plant growth process (Freeborg and Daniel, 1985).

The first Objective Of the study was to evaluate different establishment methods
common to athletic field construction. The two most common methods of
establishment in cool season regions are Kentucky bluegrass (sodding with) and
seeding with perennial ryegrass. We wanted to see if there were any quantitative
differences between the two establishment methods. This would be done through data
collecting means. Since the athletic field established was strictly for research there
was no time element in having the field ready fOr competition. This allowed for a
one year growing season in which to allow both establishment methods to reach
mature levels of growth.

Another objective of the study was to see how effective VHAF fibers were in
improving stability of a newly established sand based athletic field. The primary
means of doing this would be through visual Observation and conducting shear vane
measures. The Objective was to determine if the fibers placed on the surface added
more benefit rather than incorporating them into the rootmix as done by previous
researchers. One thought that occurred after the study had initiated was that the
fibers, when placed on the surface, might cause a layering effect albeit minimal.
Based upon the literature though, the overriding hypothesis was that the fibers would
significantly improve the overall turf system, particularly from the standpoint of

stability.

8
The final Objective of the study was to compare different fertilizers. The

fertilizers used were chosen so as to provide a mixture of readily available and slowly
available nitrogen sources as well as complete and incomplete fertilizers. It was
hypothesized that the differing fertilizers along with their different N release rates
would indicate specific differences Of the turf stand in terms of color, density, and

quality in relation to the establishment and fiber factors.

Materials & Methods

During the summer of 1992 a new athletic field facility was completed at the
Hancock Turfgrass Research Center (HTRC) on the campus of Michigan State
University. The site was constructed according to the Prescription Athletic Turf
(PAT) design and is a self-contained system. A two-ply plastic sheet sealed the PAT
system from surrounding soil contamination. Within this membrane a network of
slitted drain tiles were spaced evenly at 1.5 m throughout the base of the field. The
tiles (10 cm in diameter) are covered by a 30 cm rooting mixture. The rooting
mixture at the HTRC was comprised Of 20 cm of straight sand and the remaining top
10 cm being 80% sand and 20% peat by volume in composition. The sand separates

are presented in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1: Sand content of PAT field rootmix at Michigan State University.

 

 

Description Size (mm) Weight(%)
Very coarse sana 1.00-2.00 5.5
Coarse sand 0.50-1.00 38.0
Medium sand 0.25-0.50 45.0
Fine sand 0.10-0.25 10.0

Veg fine sand 0.05-0.10 1.5

9
The drainage tiles were connected to a vacuum pump which could extract water when

conditions were too wet or subsurface irrigate when conditions were too dry. A PAT
field profile is provided in Figure 1.1.

The study was initiated at the HTRC in August 1992. Two establishment
methods were used, a washed Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) blend sod (KBG)
and a blended perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) seed (PRG). Cultivars of the KBG
blend included Aspen, Kelly, Midnight, Rugby, and Trenton. In the PRG seed blend
were Dandy, Delray, and Target. Fiber treatments were laid on the soil surface prior
to sod or seed establishment. There were six fertilizer treatments associated with the
establishment and fiber treatments. The fertilizer treatments as well as the total N,

P20, and K20 applied for the duration Of the study are summarized in Table 1.2.

Table 1.2: Fertilizer treatments for establishment and fertility study.

 

on 0 ‘ '
Treatment Source 96WSN %WIN N E;Q,_ [$39
1. Urea (46-0-0) Maumee, OH 46 0 343 151 498
2. IBDU (31-0-0) Fairview Hgts., IL 10 21 343 151 498
3. Lebanon (13-25-12) Lebanon. PA 1 12 343 866 815
4. SC Urea (32-0-0) Lebanon. PA 0 32 343 151 498
5. Nutri-Plus (10—3-4) Saranac, M1 6 4 343 254 635
6. Milorganite (6-2-0) M ilwaukee, WI 0 6 343 265 498

Note: WSN and W1N=Water Soluble N and Water Insoluble N respectively.
“ Supplemental P20, and KO applications included for total nutrients applied (10/26/92-10/11/93).

Urea, IBDU, Lebanon 13-25-12 and sulfur coated urea are all synthetic
fertilizers. Nutri-Plus and Milorganite are both organic fertilizer sources. Nutri-Plus

and Milorganite are comprised Of chicken wastes and activated sewage sludge

10

.=Om F5; dz<m

dean ES Ea 0835‘ eoeaeaefia 23E

  

4 ~52... OFw<.E WEED EOhOijJ .v
.5 ..-x. . 4

  
    

. . ... . 2... 3...... .. I... c .1. 1...?” .
mm? Btzmhv .. . . mamiawmwfiflmfimt‘dv .
I _ .. no, ....ll 2%.Egfima ./. . .
.mro, . w .. .. ,,i..f .
. ./\....

             

 

.5 . av

A. . _
y 4 . . K '-_ .1

52: 0:92 v . .5...” ..

02% v ., . ..

. g Q “I ”9‘...

wZON bOOE .w

11
respectively. Nutri-Plus also has an additional 6 percent water soluble N in the form

of ammonium nitrate.

The experimental design was a 2 X 2 X 6 split-plot randomized complete
block design replicated three times. The establishment method and fiber treatments
made up factors one and two. The fertility factor was a split-plot on the first two
factors. Individual plots measured 1.5 m X 3 In. On 26 August 1992, 13-25-12
Lebanon was applied over the entire study area at a rate of 49 kg N/ha. Immediately
prior to sodding or seeding VHAF fibers were laid on the soil surface for fiber
treatments at a rate of 1.9 X 107 fibers/ha ( 1916/m2). The washed Kentucky
bluegrass sod, which had a thickness of approximately 2.5 cm, was laid 28 August.
Perennial ryegrass was seeded 29 August at a rate of 245 kg seed/ha. On 4 and 16
September, 25-0-25 was applied at 24.5 kg N/ha per application on all plots. The
first fertilizer applications were administered at a rate of 24.5 kg N/ha for each
respective fertilizer treatment on 19 Sept. 1992. A composite soil test of the research
field was conducted on 29 Sept. 1992 (Table 1.3). Soil pH was determined using the
Schofield method (Schofield and Taylor, 1955). Soil phosphorus levels were
determined by the Bray procedure (Bray and Kurtz, 1945). And K, Ca and Mg levels
were obtained using a procedure slightly modified from the ”NCR-13 Exchangeable
Potassium Procedure” as reported by Carson (1980). The CEC was calculated based
upon K, Ca and Mg levels. All soil tests were conducted at the Michigan State
University Soil Testing Laboratory.

The first mowing Of the study area was conducted 24 September using a Toro

recycler mower (T oro CO., Minneapolis, MN) at a height of 7 cm. An application of

12
0-0-50 was applied at 49 kg KZO/ha on 8 October. On 9 October fertilizer treatments

were applied at the 24.5 kg N/ha rate. The grasses had began to harden off at this
point as growth rates reduced considerably. Composite soil samples were again
conducted on 29 October and in 1993 on 28 April and 27 May with results provided
in Table 1.3. The samples for each respective date were comprised by a combination

of random sampling from across the research field.

Table 1.3: Composite soil test results of PAT field rootmix at Michigan State University.

 

Date

9/29/92 10/29/92 4/28/93 5l27l93
Test Result
Soil pH 8.3 8.4 8.2 8.0
P (kg/ha) 62 17 16 15
K (kg/ha) 69 43 28 47
Ca (kg/ha) 2168 2261 1969 1960
Mg (kg/ha) 122 100 63 49
CEC (me/100g) 5.4 5.5 4.7 4.6

Fertilizer applications for all treatments resumed on 7 May 1993 at 24.5 kg
N/ha rates. Supplemental K was applied in the form of soluble potash (K20), 0050
at a rate Of 49 kg KIO/ha on; 7 May, 8 July, 15 Sept., and 11 Oct. 1993 to provide
for acceptable soil potassium levels. At no time during the study did soil tests reveal
potassium or phosphorous at inadequate levels for turfgrass growth.

Wear treatments were applied using the Brinkman Traffic Simulator
(Cockerham and Brinkman, 1989) beginning 27 August 1993 (Figure 1.2). Two
passes by the Brinkman Traffic Simulator (BTS) within the Zone of Traffic

Concentration (ZOTC) is equivalent to one football game as researched by Brinkman

13

sagas» 0E5 fifiéa "a. BEE

Err}... .3

:.. NW»? a.

9.1.3“. 3.

;

 

 

14
and Cockerham (1989). The ZOTC is defined as the area at the 40 yard line between

thehashmarks. Therateoftrafficwas8passesperweekthussirnulating4gamesper
week. The BTS was pulled by a John Deere 5100 tractor (John Deere lnc., Moline,
IL). Traffic simulation was conducted through 15 November at which point
approximately 45 games had been simulated. Data collected included color, density,
and quality ratings along with clipping yields, tissue analysis, root biomass, and shear
vane measurements.

Color was rated on a scale of 1-9 with 1 being brown and 9 having a dark
green color. The minimum acceptable color was 5. Density was rated on a percent
coverage basis from 0-100. Visual Observations were made of individual plots and
the percent coverage for each plot was recorded. Since no individual quality ratings
were conducted a manufactured quality rating was equated based upon the
combination of both color and density ratings. Quality ratings for dates 28 Oct., 1992
through 26 Oct., 1993 were manufactured numbers. Ratings given within that time
period were calculated by multiplying color and density ratings for the same dates and
dividing by 90. This Objective method provided the numerical data necessary to
perform analysis for statistical purposes. The quality ratings equated by this method
also represented the realistic trend Of decreasing quality as traffic simulation
continued. The quality rating scale was from 1-9; l=bare ground, 9=ideal turf, with
4 being of minimum acceptable value.

Clippings were collected from an area approximately 0.23 m2 (2.5 ft’), dried at
55° C, and weighed for yield measurements for the growth periods Of 28 May-2 June

and 8-13 July 1993. On both dates clipping yields were taken 11 and 6 days after

15
their most recent fertilizer treatment application respectively. Clippings were ground

througha40meshscreenandashedatSOOCforShours. Theashwasthendigested
for 1 hour in 3N nitric acid and analyzed for nutrient content.

At the end of traffic simulation (18 Nov. 1993) 6 soil samples were taken from
each plot for root weight density determinations. The probe had a diameter of 3.5 cm
and a depth 14 cm. Samples were separated into 0-7 cm and 7-14 cm depths. Roots
were separated from the soil using the hydropneumatic system (Smucker et al., 1982).

Shear vane measurements were measured with an Eijkelkamp Type 13 shear
vane apparatus (Eijkelkamp Equipment, Giesbeek, The Netherlands) shown in Figure
1.3. Measurements were conducted in Fall 1993 after traffic simulation began. The
average Of three measurements were taken and are presented in Newton-meters (Nm).

Analysis of variance was performed on all data and means were statistically

separated using LSD procedures at the 0.05 level of probability.

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

,T‘
i

- \
.X/
,7?

 

lg)

i ii

Figure 1.3: Eijkelkamp type 13 field shear apparatus.

 

17

Results and Discussion

Color

Color ratings were conducted in early, middle, and late season 1993 (Table
1.4). The washed KBG sod establishment method had signifieantly higher color
ratings compared to the seeded PRG method. Not until the last rating date (23
November) late in the 1993 season did the color rating fall below an acceptable level
(5) for the sodded KBG establishment method. NO significant color differences were
observed between the fiber treatments during the study. Significant color differences
were noted for the fertilizer treatments. By taking the mean for all rating dates for
each of the respective fertilizers, Urea rated highest followed by Lebanon 13-25-12.
IBDU and Milorganite received the lowest color ratings.

On 12 May 1993 the establishment method factor had an interaction with the
fertility factor (Table 1.5). Based upon this interaction, it is apparent that complete
fertilizer treatments (N-P—K) or quick release N sources had better color ratings than
slowly available N sources. It was also noted that IBDU had the highest color rating
for sod but the lowest for seed treated plots. A similar interaction was Observed for
Milorganite. Figure 1.4 illustrates the color differences Of the establishment and
fertility factors. Release Of nitrogen from IBDU is dependent on particle size as well
as surrounding soil temperature, moisture, and pH levels. Coarse IBDU was used for
the study, but it is believed that the particle size did not dictate the differences
Observed but rather the moisture levels. Although no moisture level data was

collected, it appeared that the sod established treatments maintained higher moisture

18

is. 8... .. E8555 ..

635308 n as 82» {are .5514.-. 28m.

 

0v an i. l. l- l-

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 02 9.0

0.0 _.n «.0 0.5 0.0 90 0.0

0.0 0.v 0.5 v.0 v.0 0.0 5.5

0.0 fie 0.0 0.5 0.0 n0 0.5

0.0 0.0 0.5 0.0 0.5 «.0 0.5

5.0 0.0 _.0 _.5 0.v 0.0 v.0

5.0 0.v 0.5 N.5 0.5 0.0 0.5

02 02 02 02 02 02

v.0 06 0.0 _ .5 0.0 n0 n.5

_.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 _.0 _.0 _.5

... ... _.. a ... .._

0.0 0.n m0 w.0 «.0 0.0 5.0

0.0 06 0.5 N5 w.0 0.0 5.5
:82 00352— 00\0N\0_ 305 nQ5Q0 n2~20 ~935—

Sign

022555 85.0

a 8.: a o3
22.3 2.5925
012.: 3...-..32

$39 :8
2-3-: 5:33
8.95 :2:
8.980 85

RE oz
5......

poem cam com
com Om: 00:33

3953';

.128 REM—.5. woo—058.52. 0:- 08—0:08. no 2.253: 83:5: 05 can... .352: Eve—.2323 0o £8.00 25—. 3..— 0.05...

. .82 .32 u. :28 3.55
0300.03.15: no 820233 308.3: DEE: X 06508 .203088 be 80.20 2:. "v; 0.505

 

Sow 0E I 8m 09. g

 

 

 

 

93: 35-532 :8 «Sagas. :8. 2::

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

h . .A V.
v0. 1.. .9.
. O. A
................................................................. ”2. “5:52:55 er
on a
o. a
o. a
............................................... O. . .................. a
m .. .
.. .. .

n o. a
..................... n o. .. a .
H o. a

. .. .
o. a
o. a
............................................................................. .. . . ,................. x
9.. .
.... .
.o a
..
......................................................... y‘. . ‘ aim
. v. u
«a .
.......... '0. : .: O x
n .o .
. O.
. . o
..
.o
.................................................. .... .x
.n
.o
.........
............................................................................................................ 1
318.98..

 

 

(mqerdaooe 5) Super JOIOQ

 

20
levels for longer time periods than the seed established treatments. This likely

allowed for greater N release and improved color. Milorganite showed similar results
to that of IBDU, higher color ratings for sod established treatments and lower color
for seeded treatments.

Table 1.6 shows the interactions that occurred between fiber and fertility
factors on 12 May and 27 May 1993. Nutri-Plus and Lebanon 13-25-12 in
combination with fiber provided for best color on each respective date. The other
organic, Milorganite, with fiber had the lowest color rating. Both Nutri-Plus and
Milorganite are natural organics but their methods of production differ. Sixty percent
of Nutri-Plus’ total N is water soluble where as Milorganite has no water soluble N.

An interaction between the establishment and fiber factor existed for color on
27 May 1993 (Table 1.7). Color ratings were highest for sodded treatments without
fiber at the surface but this was the Opposite for perennial ryegrass seed treatments as
color was rated higher where fiber was present. Although the sod treatments with
and without fibers had better color than the seed treatments, all treatments were at
acceptable values. Interactions between all three factors took place on 28 Oct. 1992
and again almost a year later on 26 Oct. 1993 (T ables 1.8 and 1.9, respectively).
The interactions on those dates indicated that sod established treatment, without
VHAF and fertilized with urea had the highest color ratings and the seed

establishment treatments combined with fiber and Milorganite were the lowest.

2.
an S.
a.“ 3
we no
3 3
3. n...
S. 3
0”.“ 03¢ ”one 3
~33"— hon—mn—
a: a

0.0
«.0
5.0
«.0
0.0
5.0

635808 n a... sea ears Seine. 28m.

wag
.28"— 50$

a: E

0 .0

5.0
0.5
0.0
«.0
0.0
0.0

 

.50: 3

 

21

.32 5.2 «_ .123 manta .6on.375: :6 22882:. 2.953: 35:55.. x 0052: Eon—5:058 0o 80.00 of. "0.. 0.03.

 

2.5

B 00.0 3 G04

6.3: £5925
:13: 2.5-3.2
86.3 :8
~73: 5:33
$93 :2:
$3.40 35

.rllllullcoE.3e.5 confine".

.000. .128 $833. 08—058.-..9. :o =o_.oEo.c_ 2.258: 322.5. x 30... .3 80.00 2:. ”0._ 0.0:.

 

no

3 2

3 we

as a...

as no

A... E.

3 3
[1% o .3 Ice. Baal?
some: .52... .._.azsm.m.|......|

o 00.0 .a 004

22-8 £592.:
3:3: 33-3.2
$29 :8
2-8-2 5:23
$98 :2:
85.3.0 85

.lllllllfigwoek confine”—

e...
o... E 2. cs
3 2. 2. S.
o... no 3. a.»
3. 2 E o...
E as 3 S
2 E 2 3

non... O}! on. 3 hon—h 032 has... 3

Ba .5. 8.. 08. Base

 

22

6.08008- 0 0:- 580 fine .EvDBflfla; 0.30.

 

 

 

 

5.0
..0 5.0
0.5 0.0
g .3... a
legal

6 00.0 2. Q3

8.3. 2.592.:
012:. 3...-..32
8.93 new
2.8.: 8.33
8.93 an...
8.98. 8.:

.lllll:oE.3...—. 83.55....

.«00. 30200 w«

.128 80...... 08.2.5.8. no 30082:. 2258: 38:89.. 05 80... .0202: 2055.388 .o 38...... 2.... 5.. 20¢...

a 00.0 .a Gm...

009.. ob. can.
08 03. 12.33

331....

.000. 5.2 5« .128 38005. 08.058.89— =o 50082:. .6508 Eon—5:053 x .00... ..o 80...... 2.... "5.. 20¢...

23

n.m ca.
6... o6
0.0 n.m
c... 56
56 ad
ad ad
a? g
.88 P3. 3.0..

ed

ad 06
h.» n.»
5.5 cd
n.w c.»
s... 5.0
5w n...
3...... £3 :1... 3
Omv. €2.33

6.38398 m ecu coo.» 3.3.4.0 .565" to. 0.3m.

 

p.28... 59:... 342055.526

a mod 3 0%..

8.68 2.592.:
:13: 33:32
533 :8
2-2-: 55.3
$30 :9:
$33 85

 

3253.... 33:5...

.82 .3900 ca .123 guts. 3.2....2. :o 5.828... 50:53.. 83:95.. .Ea can... .252: Eva—5.22m... .c 28...“. 0...... 5.. 03a...

2 4
Density

Density is defined as the number of plants per unit area. For this study
density ratings are given as percentages. The washed KBG sod establishment method
was significantly better than the perennial ryegrass seeded establishment method in ‘
terms of density as defined above (Table 1.10). The fiber factor was of no signifieant
benefit in turfgrass density. The fertility factor indicated that the Lebanon 13-25-12
treatment provided for the highest densities while IBDU and Milorganite were the
lowest.

Significant interactions were noted on 28 Oct. 1992 and again on 27 May 1993
between establishment and fertility factors (Table 1.11). On 28 Oct. 1992 there were
no significant differences among the sod establishment treatments but only for seed
established treatments (Figure 1.5). On that date the seeded perennial ryegrass was
approximately 3 months old. A plant is far from maturity at that stage of growth.
Nutrient availability is critical at the above stage of growth and thus it is
understandable why the slow release IBDU fertility treatment in combination with the
perennial ryegrass seeded establishment method had significantly lower densities. The
interaction on 27 May 1993 was comparable to that on 28 Oct. 1992. The seed
establishment method had similar numbers on both dates but differences were more

apparent with sod established treatments, particularly for IBDU and Milorganite.

Quality
Quality ratings are presented in Table 1.12. Highest quality ratings were

given to the washed KBG sod establishment method. Quality ratings for the perennial

25

.32 no... a 38:20.» a

.870 .38 R .8 .083 was... 3.289

 

 

an 8. l. l- l-
w n N h w
an on On 2. ow
.n ma 5 mm 00
on ca 5 .w an
on No 3 5 ca
On 5 2. 2. .m
we .a 5 mm am
”2 m2 wZ m2 m2
he .o mm 8 mm
ow ca 3 . m 5
... ... ... ._
NV mm 2. E. . m
mm m... .o cm 3
lfil
nQoNB— 83:. nmRNR nQNIm NQBNB.
0.00

120.985 8:30
5 mad .0 Gm...

$3. 2.5.0.2.:
.302. 2.5-5.2
8.98 300
2-3-2 .8533
$38 :9:
8.903 85

.3... e2
.3:

.008 03. con.
.09. 03. 3:00?

.IcoE.....00!.0.....

.3386 gut... 58.05878: .0:- voonE. co .EE.8= 08:50.. .05 £05.... 6050:. 3085.38.00 ..o 0.00....0 0:... no. .. 0.90...

26

n
mp am
No co
3 ma
3 no
2. 8
8 8
$13.33 3
3502 .§m__nsmm
nesfim

Sana

an
on
Nw
mm
ch
mm

33. o .5

.8—6 ..o>8 fl .5 woman mafia! 5:250.

ma
vo
ea
co
Na
ea

3

3502 EoEsflzsmm

NQon—

a mod 3 as

53V 2592.:
can-o: mas-Eaz
$29 :8
2-8-2 8:33
$0.3 :9:
53.3 35

.55....3; 83.9.0".

{£83 mam-ta. 3305375: :0 5:09.25 305.3... Suite. x .552: .coEsmznsmo be Batu 25. H. _ ._ 033—.

27

.82 .so 8 .288 9.5:...
30E... 8 828.3... Ease. 5.55 x 359.. Esp-.358 3 set 2F 6.. 2:5

 

.88 GE I now 09. fig

   

 

        

 

          

         

       

    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 
 

 

m Rum-n F .53 30m. $5
. . v. on
w.»
0
V99
609
0
W09
0
00 \I8
090 .
o
O . {On
«0” ....... \
000.
O .
00 .
9%.
0%.
90¢.
“.” x18
0 .
00..
00 .
. O
O O .
H. v... .
0 ---------------- \18
n u so .909
[8 F

 

 

 

(%00t-o) BUQEJ Ausueg

28

.83. 82.. 8 8.5 as... $82. as. 8.8 8 was a. 8.52-2.32 .33. a. 353. Hmfioz

.22 mod .. .sucaua .-

 

 

2... :- I- 3 an -- 5 -- :-
0... a... m2 a... fio e... m... m... m...
n.n en fin n.~ ON «.6 ed on. No
fin m.n c... an ..v o... .6 .6 fi..
m6 N6 m.n ~.n an a... n6 fin n...
an o... ..v N... fiv fie o... fin ms
fiv mi .6 ad m.n a... o6 on on
fin n.n fin n.n fin n... m... o... m..-
m2 m2 m2 .. m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
an a... an ..n on :- w.n on NS
.6 m.n fin fin an on fin an ad

9 § .9 i ... ... i ... s.
n.n ..n on on w.~ c... fiv fiv o...
fiv o... w... an 9v n... m... We .6

vQSR 334m 33... non. .. naBNB. 8.0:- noRNR 3.23 «935.
0.45

.o_§..88 .- 2: £2 33".. .252» 23". x... as... 5:56.

veg—:55 3an
5 no... .a Om.

8.3. 2.292.:
313: 3...-_..=z
$93 :8
2-2-: .5593
$39 :9:
8.93. 85

.3: oz
.3:

.58 93. do“.
.5» 0.3. .65.“?

Eon—32....

.353... at... 108058.-..0: .28 18.0...7: :0 .88.8... 39.55.. .23 CB... .352: inc—5.383 .o 28...... 2.... "N. .. 03a...

2 9
ryegrass seed establishment method were lower than the washed Kentucky bluegrass

sod method and below acceptable levels late in the season as simulated traffic
surmounted. Quality ratings conducted 3 November, after 40 simulated games of
traffic, indicated that treatments having VHAF at the soil surface were signifieantly
better than those treatments not having VHAF. The final fertilizer applieation was
conducted 6 Oct 1993. SCU provided the best quality ratings followed by Urea,
Nutri-Plus, Lebanon 13-25-12, and IBDU. Milorganite had the lowest quality ratings.
Table 1.13 shows the interaction between establishment and fertility factors for
12 May, 1993 quality ratings. Urea and sod establishment received the highest
highest quality rating. All sodded treatments received higher quality ratings compared
to any of the seed established treatments. The seeded plots with IBDU were the
lowest rated which indicated the interaction. As was the case with color on 27 May,
1993, an interaction between the fiber and fertility factors occurred but relative to
quality (Table 1.14). The fiber X fertility interaction stems from the ratings given to
the Nutri-Plus treatment. All fertility treatments except the Nutri-Plus treatment had
similar quality ratings with and without fibers. The Nutri-Plus treatment not having
fibers had a significantly lower quality rating compared to the same fertility treatment
with fibers (Figure 1.6). Quality was best for washed KBG sod established treatments
not having fiber and the worst for seeded PRG establishment treatments not having
fiber (Table 1.15). These interactions took place in May, four months before traffic

simulation began.

30

6.2893. v :5 ch: .332. .258» 2.2.". .o... 9...! 5.1.6.

 

 

2. a no... a :3

9m 3 8.3. 2.522.:
2“ S. .33: Batsz
no N... 393 :8
2e 2. 2-3-: 8223
3. a... $23 no...

as 3 $98. 85
won... 03a .00... 3 50:38.... uni—3.0...

5.323.".

.na. an: nu .352... gut... noxoc.fl.-:o: :e 5.882... E253: :3...to. X :2... ..e .250 2.... 3.. .. 03:...

fio a mod 3 0m.

 

3 I 53. 2.522.:
2... m... .72.: 2...-..sz
3 m... .320 new
we a... 2-2-: 8523
3 3 8-23 :2:
a... 2. $98. 85
3 g .528; 5:22

 

8...»: 3.21

.82 2: N. .323... $22....
3.05878: :0 82082:. E258: BEES. x .852: 3085.338 .e 80....0 2.... ”n. .. 0.2a...

31

.82 ..: 5 5:2... azure 820558.. 8 828.22 .8832 5.22 x .3: .o .8... 2:. 62 an»...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

.2... 52.5) I .3... 55> mm
ab! 35.52 now . 2&2 .82 Dom 8.:
. . o
w. .4. .4. .
..
a. v. v.
«. ... v.
..................... v v. A ..IP
w. m. .
.0.. . .0. . ,
.... v. a ,
..................... VG. . a A TIN
.. .0. .
«. ... .
.0.. .0. .
. .. ................... w. .................... . ........................................................
o. .u .
.0 A
a m. u .
................... v , .I
.0. .0. .
2 u .
. A
................................................................. .. 0.2: . .. .. . .Im
.. . .
I... A
.0. .0. . 1m
................... “6 v.01 A3. .
3. .
w. I iv.
I my
............................. .0. 2. .. .
Qouaodvofl

 

 

(elqezdeooe 2) Guam Ameno

3 2
Soil phosphorus and potassium levels were measured after fertility treatments

were completed via soil sampling 16 November, 1993 and analyzed at Michigan State
University’s Soil Testing Laboratory. Significant phosphorus differences were noted
among the fertilizer treatments. Plots receiving the Lebanon 13-25-12 averaged the
most phosphorus at 44.2 kg/ha and SCU contained the lowest phosphorus amounts
with a mean of 8.4 kg/ha. No significant differences were noted among the fertilizer
treatments relative to potassium amounts (Table 1.16).

Root weight densities were also collected in late November 1993 (Table
1.17). Significant differences were noted amongst the establishment methods at the
7.6-15.2 cm depth. The washed Kentucky bluegrass sod established treatments
received lower root biomass than the perennial ryegrass md. No significant
differences were seen at the O-7.6 cm depth. Lastly, it should be noted that neither
polypropylene fiber treatment nor fertility treatments had any significant differences
on root biomass.

Clipping yields were obtained on 2 June and 13 July 1993 (Table 1.18). Sod
established treatments had significantly higher clipping yields than seeded treatments
on both dates. No differences were observed due to fiber treatment. As expected,
differences were observed among fertility treatments. Complete and fast release N
fertilizer treatments had relatively high clipping yields compared to Milorganite and
slow release IBDU.

Nutrient content in the clippings was determined for both clipping dates in
1993 (Table 1.19). No significant differences in potassium were observed for either

month. This was reassuring because it indicated that the supplemental soluble potash

33

m2 «..v 5 mod 3 am..—

~.$. q: 6.~-33_§Eo=2
we. 92 :13: 39:52
3: I, 86.3 :8
2n «.3 2-2-2 ..3
new ”.2 8.20 :9:
new 2 $33 85
«a a 541.2%

 

m_o>u.._L..mo._. =8

.32 $02 .295. 52830; was “2..—ciao...“ :8 so .5358: 335...: go Soto 2F ”c. ._ 033.

6339.38 v 55 ..:—3 :BEHo ..:.sz 9:3"— uo; meta. 5:30.

 

 

 

E. a 8d a DB

3. ca 88 or. 3..

2 We as 05. 8‘23

3% .2: 3 85...: .coefifiem
5.2%"— 52:...

.82 a: R ..::s... 3835.
3x05878= no 5.8885 .3... x .5505 33.5558 .3 Soto 2:. fi- ._ 03a...

34

m2 m2

nu
NN
NN
a _
cm
@—

\DWWI‘WW

 

m2 m2

 

_.. m2
m mm
m o.

 

Ella 2-5 .3 .5 3
052.752

m2

VP‘V‘IVMM

.§§o.==. 38:83. oz nmz

..:... no... .. ascaua ..

.=8 3w 5 :02» momma—c3 .com _

m2

ON
3
ON
@—
.N
_N

 

m2

m2
ON
@—

 

\O

8.. 3|: am

 

E0 5-0

 

595 2.3.18

6 mod 03

Stance—=2
2...—-132
30m

«73.: .93
30m.

3.:

2.... oz
.2:

33. 93. com
we. 05— cop-=3

EoE.3..-.

doa— .>oz .3382: .00.. 883:: vow—0E8. .5 305.83 33:5... e5 :3... 6052: 3055358 ..c 28:0 2:. n: ._ 03:.

35

 

 

a... a...
«.2 3.
“.3 SN
”.2 n:
.2 92
..NN ..:
3.. m. _ n
m2 m2
3.. v.8
QR ed
... i
3.: we.
..: NS
.8...
8. :3 8. 2..:
2.5

.80..o.o....=. .555»? oz “2
.26. we... .a 385.56 ..
..:..m 5 coin v.22» 9.35.0 .

a 36 .a as

8.3. 2.532.:
:12... 2.54.52
8-39 20.0.
2-8-: :3
$20 :2:
$33 85

.2: oz
.2...

33 gm .0..
new. Om... $2.33

5253...

..mEoR mafia—=0 $23.... 3:95.558 .5
505.3... BREE... v5. :3... 6052.. 5055.338 .0 $8.20 2C. .m— ._ 03a...

36

.355 85.8 .0.. 8.2. E :02» 0.0.6. 505:2.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

02 .2 n... a. 8. o... 9N 8.. 9.. m2 m2 wz
Nan RSN on... ..:. .va a... N.. 82. o... annN o... ..8.
.2 N.$N 8.. 58 SN n... N... NVNV o... .3... a... ...N
3.. 8.2 8.. .NS xNN ..N... ..e 8.. n... 3.8 n... ..:.
3.. 2.2 N... Nam. 28 N6: 9... an... o... a... ..N. 22
mm. N88 a... .80 ..nN n... ..e ..:. M... 0.3. 3. n...
3.. «EN N... .30 ..NN v... ..m a... Q. 2.. ..mN ..oNN
5....
.2 v. o... .0 ms. :2 6 . m a”. ..N 2
35.3.2
mz m2 m2 m2 m2 9. m2 .9. ..N m2 3 m2
..NV .9... ..:N 3.8 .3. 0.8 a... NaN N.. a... ...N I.
one 58 SN 9.... .8. a... ..m 8.. I. N..... o... ..:.
8.. .82 RN SN. .3. ..: n... .8. m. .2. a... e...
8. SEN .N.N :3. a... 3... 3. No... 3 ..:. N... ..:.
0... .8... ..:..N 80.. ..Nm. 3... ..n SR 0.. “.8. SN 2...
.3. BoNN ..N NNS .8. ..: N... .8. a... ”.8. o... ..3
.z .. oz 6 as. :2 .6 A. m o. ..N _<
255:2

5 nod .0 03

SN... 3.592.:
:72... 3...-..52
8.3... :0.
N72-.. ..3
$an. on...
8.98. 85

5253....
.0.2...“...

a... 2....

5 mod .0 Om.—

.9Ne. 2.5.5....
:22... 3...-..32
8-92. :0.
NEN-.. ..3
$2.. an...
8.98. 35

2.253....
82:5.

n2: 0......

.205. 2.05:: 02mm: .5... ..c 2.258.. 5.23.0. ..o .00.:0 2: no... 0302.

3 7
applications were balanced across all fertility treatments in spite of low soil K levels.

Lebanon 13-25-12 had significantly higher phosphorous levels than all other fertilizer
treatments. This was expected and also explained why the Lebanon treated plots
fared so well in most areas where data was collected. This information again stresses
the importance of phosphorous nutrition within any turf establishment phase, be it
sodded or seeded.

Shear vane measurements were taken after wear treatment had been initiated in
Sept. 1993. Traffic was applied using the Brinkman Traffic. Simulator. No
differences were noted among the fertility treatments. The inclusion of the
polypropylene fibers with sodded or seeded turf allowed investigation of the
possibility of increased stability at the turf/soil interface. On 3 of the 6 dates when
shears were taken, fibers provided a significant benefit. Shears were higher for
treatments having VHAF compared to those that did not even though they were not
significantly different. Sod established treatments obtained higher shear values than
treatments established by seed for the duration of the study. Treatments not receiving
traffic resembled those that did; a) no fertility differences, b) trend that fiber
improves shear and c) sodded establishment sheared higher than seeded establishment.
Both the trafficked and non-trafficked shear measure data are presented in Tables 1.20
and 1.21, respectively. One interaction took place between establishment and fiber
factors relative to shear. The interaction occurred 17 Sept. 1993 and indicated the
benefit fibers placed on the soil surface had in increasing shear strength for the seeded

perennial ryegrass establishment method (Figure 1.7).

38

 

.25. no... a .5355.» ..
..:.2. £22.. 5.3.2 e. co...“ «.85.

 

 

ov mN mm w. v. 0.
m2 m2 m2 wz m2 m2
n.n. m... ..c. 0.... WNN m..~
nd. ed. a... Nd. 9: man
We. n..~ 0.x. ad. m.v~ m.m~
9m. ad. ad. c.o~ 0.3 m.n~
5.: ..w. n6. nd. wdm o.m~
od— od. w... w...— m.- YNN
8. m2 _._ m2 m2 _._
n.m. m... v.0. 9m. w.- QNN
5.... rd. ad. v.3 n.v~ w.m~
... ._ a. .._ ... ..
..v. v.2 n... O6. 0.... Wm.
ad. «AN NdN YNN v.5 ..hN
EZ
n03... mm: .3. .823. nQvNR no.2... nos—5
Ema

33.55% 8:80
a no.0 .a Om...

8N... 2.5.8.. 2
81.-.... 3...-..82
8.3.. new
N73-.. .5533
$3.. an...
$98... 85

.2... oz
.2...

.68 03. .0..
to... 0.... 3:33

.IllcoE.3....

.3238... .3... gut... 18.05... :0 3258.. .0355. v5. .3... 69:0... 3085.358 .0 38....0 2.... SN. 03:...

39

 

.26. 8... .. .50....55. ..

..EZ. £0.05 5.302 a. :0...» 33.5.

 

 

m2 m2 m2 m2 wZ
WNN —.mN ©.wN QMN o. _ m
QMN odN QéN YMN 6.0m
QNN mdN m.wN WNN v.9”
N.VN mdn o.wN m.m~ O.Nm
—.NN ndN th de 0.0m
WNN OdN th m.m~ o.~n
.9 m2 m2 m2 9
N.NN GKN NdN ..MN M .0m
«6N cdn mdN néN O.Nm
_.. .._ ... _.. ...
ad. N.m~ ..WN odN MKN
NdN MAM v.Nm MSN can
52
n6: ta: max—5— no\vm\a MQBCG nm\o.\o
clan—

6 36 .a Gm.

5.... 2.5.5....
3-2... 3...-..52
8.3.. :8
2.2-: 8:23
$33 so...
53... 85

.2... oz
3....

.88 0.3. ..:...
3m 03. $2.23

 

205.8...

.8538. .8... want... 13.05875: .5 .5832. BEES. ..:a .3... 62:0... .coEzm....5mo .o 28.... 2.... ..N. 2......

4O

 

8 LSD(0.05) =2.3
27.3

 

25

20

 

Shear Measure (Mn)
15

10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

KBG Sod PRG Seed

with fiber
without fiber [3

Figure 1.7: The effect of establishment method X fiber Interaction
on trafficked turfgrass shear resistance,17 Sept. 1993.

4 1
Conclusions

The establishment phase of athletic fields, especially high sand based rootzone
systems like PAT, is critical to their success. If established hastily and improperly
these fields will likely fail due to poor and unsafe playing conditions. Sod
establishment with washed KBG proved to be the more beneficial establishment
method compared to mding with PRG. Washed Kentucky bluegrass sod provided
significantly higher color and quality ratings. The washed KBG sod receiving traffic
had a 12% higher average density and 26% higher average shear measure relative to
the seeded perennial ryegrass (also trafficked) over the 1993 growing season. When
placed on the soil surface prior to establishment, VHAF treatments provided higher
shear and quality measures in limited evaluations and at no time were detrimental.
Polypropylene fibers (VHAF) added significant improvements to quality late in the
study (after approximately 42 simulated games). An interesting observation was noted
between shear vane measures and root weight densities. Literature indicates that
higher root weight densities would correlate to higher shear vane measures (Adams et
al., 1985)‘ but rather the opposite was noted. Although the perennial ryegrass seed
had higher root weight densities compared to the washed Kentucky bluegrass sod the
shear vane measures were significantly higher for the washed Kentucky bluegrass sod.
Shear vane measures with the Eijkelkamp apparatus are not necessarily an indication
of root development but rather a measure of components which make up the turf
system. These components include the mat and thatch layers, soil , water and air.
Lastly, complete fertilizers, those having N, P, and K provided significantly higher

color, density, and quality ratings. Some of the slow release and single nutrient

42
carriers, if used, should be applied at higher rates in combination with soluble N

sources to be effective during the establishment phase for sand based athletic fields.

43
Literature Cited

Adams, W.A. 1981. Soils and plant nutrition for sports turf: perspective and
prospects. p.167-179. Proceedings of the Fourth International Turfgrass
Research Conference, Guelph, Canada.

Adams, W.A. and RJ. Gibbs. 1989. The use of polypropylene fibers (VHAF) for
the stabilization of natural turf on sports fields. p.237-239. Proceedings of the
Sixth International Turfgrass Research Conference, Tokyo, Japan.

Adams, W.A., V.I. Stewart, and DJ. Thornton. 1971. The assessment of sands
suitable for use in sportsfields. J. Sports Turf Res. Inst. 47:77-85.

Adams, W.A., C. Tanavud, and GT. Springsguth. 1985. Factors influencing the
stability of Sportsturf rootzones. p.39l-399. In International Turfgrass
Research Conference, 5th, Avignon, France. July, 1985. INRA Publications.

Baker, S. 1991. The right sands for winter game pitches. Parks, Golf Courses and
Sports Grounds. 56(10):32-36.

Beard, LB. and 8.1. Sifers. 1993. Stabilization and enhancement of sand modified
rootzones for high traffic sports turfs with mesh elements. Bull. 1710. Texas
Ag, Exp. Stn., College Station, TX.

Bingaman, DE. and H. Kohnke. 1970. Evaluating sands for athletic turf. Agron. J.
62:464-467.

Brady, N.C. 1990. The Nature and Properties of Soils. 10th ed., Macmillan, New
York, New York. p.201-203.

Bray, R.H., and LT. Kurtz. 1945. Determination of total, organic and available
form of phosphorus in soil. Soil Soc. 59:39-45.

Carson, RI. 1980. Recommended potassium test. In W.C. Dahnke, (ed.).
Recommended Chemical Soil Test Procedures for the North Central Region.
NC Regional Publ. 221 (Revised). North Dakota Agric. Exp. Stn. Bull. 499
(Revised).

Casimaty, 8.0., J. Neylan, and 1.8. Beard. 1993. Effects of soil removal by post-
harvest hydraulic washing on sod transplant rooting of a Kentucky bluegrass-
perennial ryegrass polystand and a creeping bentgrass monostand. Inter.
Turfgrass Soc. Res. J. 7:850-856.

Cockerham, S.T. and DJ. Brinkman. 1989. A simulator for cleated-shoe sports
traffic. Cal. Turfgrass Culture. 39(3,4):9-11.

44

Cockerham, S.T., V.A. Gibeault, and M. Borgonovo. 1994. Effects of nitrogen and
potassium on high-trafficked sand rootzone turfgrass. Cal. Turfgrass Culture.
44 (1,2):4-6.

Cockerham, S.T., V.A. Gibeault, and R.A. Khan. 1993. Alteration of sports field
characteristics using management. Inter. Turfgrass Soc. Res. J. 7:182-191.

Cockerham, S.T., V.A. Gibeault, J. Van Dam, and M.K. Leonard. 1989. Tolerance
of cool-season turfgrasses to sports traffic. Cal. Turfgrass Culture. 39(3,4):12-
14.

Daniel, W.H. and R.P. Freeborg. 1979. Turf Manager’s Handbook. Cleveland,
Ohio: Harvest Publishing Co., pp.182-183.

Dixon, C.R., 1994. The keys to success with sand-based turf systems. SportsTurf.
10(6):38-40.

Duble, R.L., and K.W. Brown. 1976. Relationship between particle size distribution
and the physical nature of sand mixtures. p.99. In Agronomy abstracts. ASA,
Madison, WI.

Dunn, J.H., B.F. Fresenburg, and 8.8. Bughara. 1994. Bermudagrass and cool-
season turfgrass mixtures: response to simulated traffic. Agron. J. 86(1):10-
16.

Dury, P.L.K. 1986. Grass reinforcement, the road to VHAF. The Groundsman.
39(12):lO-11.

Freeborg, R.P. and W.H. Daniel. 1985. Turf nutrient needs. Weeds, Trees and
Turf. 24(8):26-32.

Gaussoin, R.E. 1994. Choosing traffic tolerant turfgrass varieties. SportsTurf. 7(10):
25-37.

Gibbs, KJ. 1990. Maintaining surface stability on sand-based athletic fields. Grounds
Maintenance. 25(3):58-64.

6055, R.L. 1987. Prescription fertility maintenance of sand-based turfgrasses. The
Turf Line News: Proceedings of the 24th Annual Conference. 79:13-18.

Hall, J.R., III. 1984. What are the strongest varieties of Kentucky bluegrass for sod
production. Proceedings of the 23rd Virginia Turfgrass Conference. pp. 84-86.

King, J.W. and J.B. Beard. 1969. Measuring rooting of sodded turfs. Agron. J.
61(4):497-498.

45

Kelly, M. 1989. Facts on organic soil amendments. Grounds Maintenance. 24(2):
74-108.

McCoy, E.L. 1992. Quantitative physical assessment of organic materials used in
sports turf rootzone mixes. Agron. J. 84:375-381.

Rogers, J.N., III, D.V. Waddington, and J.C. Harper II. 1988. Relationships between
athletic field hardness and traction, vegetation, soil properties and maintenance
practices. Pennsylvania Agric. Exp. Stn. Prog. Rep. 393.

Schofield, R.K., and A.W. Taylor. 1955. The measurement of soil pH. Soil Sci. Soc.
Amer. Proc. 19:164-167.

Smucker, A.J., S.L. McBumey, and A.K. Srivastava. 1982. Quantitative separation
of roots from compacted soil profiles by the hydropneumatic elutriation
system. Agron. J. 74:500-503.

Turner, T.R. 1992. Fertilizing for turfgrass establishment. Grounds Maintenance.
27(8): 12-76.

Zebarth, B.J. and R.W. Sheard. 1985. Impact and shear resistance of turfgrass racing
surfaces for thoroughbreds. Am. J. Vet. Res. 46(4):778-783.

CHAPTER TWO

Nitrogen and Potassium Fertility of 8
Sand Based Rootzone Athletic Turf

ABSTRACT

Turfgrasses are dependent on nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) for their
livelihood. The availability of N and K is a necessity for a turfgrass to function
properly. Because nitrogen and potassium can readily leach in sandy soils (e.g. sand
based athletic fields), monitoring of these nutrients at such sites is highly
recommended. When N and K are made available, the concern becomes at what ratio
should they be applied. Fertilizer treatments having higher amounts of nitrogen and
potassium had significantly higher color ratings compared to lower levels. Turf
quality and density ratings were also enhanced for those treatments where higher rates
of nitrogen and potassium were applied. None of the treatments proved better in
terms of shear vane measures (rotational force). The treatment receiving the highest
amount of N (441 kg/ha) obtained the highest quality ratings yet did not provide high
shear measures. As traffic simulation continued shear vane measures dropped for all
treatments through the course of the study. Due to its growth habit, perennial
ryegrass (Lolium perenne) has very little to no thatch and poor recuperative ability.
Depending on soil conditions, the magnitude of nutrient output can substantially
influence fertilizer requirements. They must also be applied more frequently and at

environmentally appropriate levels.

46

47

Nitrogen and Potassium Fertility of a
Sand Based Rootzone Athletic Turf

Introduction

Sand based fields are increasingly being used throughout the 0.8. They
provide for adequate drainage and maximum turf plant rooting. Loliwn perenne
grown on rootzones of pure sand or rootzone mixtures exceeding 90% sand gave the
greatest wear tolerance under intensive wear compared to soil media having less than
90% sand (Baker and Isaac, 1987). Two drawbacks of athletic fields having sand
rootzone mixes is their limited stability and low cation exchange capacities (CBC)
(Gibbs, 1990). Sands do not hold nutrients readily, particularly nitrogen and
potassium. Nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) are essential nutrients for turf plant
survival. Some of the major turfgrass effects attributed to nitrogen include: shoot
growth, shoot density, color, heat and cold tolerance, drought hardiness, wear
tolerance, and disease proneness (Beard, 1984). Potassium regulates turf plant water
relations, heat/cold/frost resistance, wear tolerance and rooting (Beard, 1973).

In greenhouse experiments, Waddington et a1. (1994) compared sand and soil
media and found macro and micronutrient deficiencies in Lolium perenne were more
evident with sand. Cockerham et a1. (1991) recognized that turf species having
minimal thatch accumulation are more susceptible to traffic. Due to its bunch-type
growth habit, Lolium perenne produces less thatch than rhizomatous grasses such as
Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis).

Canaway (1989) emphasized that permeable sand rootzones are usually lacking

in nitrogen and contain low levels of other nutrients required for turfgrass

4 8
establishment and growth. Considerable research has been conducted on N fertility as

it relates to sand rootzone turf maintenance. The bulk of that work has dealt with
sand based putting greens. Lodge et a1. (1991), in research on sand based golf
greens, found that with increasing N application rates, the cover of Agrostis spp.
increased and that of Festuca rubra declined. Davidson and Hummel (1990) found
that applications of low rates of Mn increased growth and quality of creeping
bentgrass grown on acidic and calcareous sands. They also reported that turf growth
and quality also increased when the N rate was 340 g N/m’lyear. Research conducted
by Canaway (1985) indicated that Lolium perenne fresh weight, dry weight, moisture
content and tiller numbers all increased with increasing nitrogen. Shearman (1988)
suggested that increased moisture content of turf may contribute to poorer wear and
tolerance of turf receiving high levels of N. He concluded that turfgrass wear
tolerance increases with increasing plant maturity and that wear tolerance increases
with N nutrition until it results in succulent growth.

The target value for N fertilization to maintain maximum turfgrass cover
during wear as indicated by Canaway (1985) should be 225 kg/ha/yr. Clement et al.
(1978) reported on the relationship of NO3 concentration in flowing nutrient solution
on Lolium perenne. At nitrate levels between 1000 and 2000 mg N/L there was a
marked reduction in root length and tensile strength. The effect of traffic also affects
the amount of nitrogen required for plant maintenance. Turf receiving high N levels
deteriorates under traffic at a greater rate than turf receiving an intermediate level of
N (Canaway and Hacker, 1988).

Without adequate levels of potassium, the health and recuperative potential of

49
sports turf is severely reduced. Carroll et al. (1994) found that an increased

Kentucky bluegrass (Poo pratensis) potassium tissue concentration appears to have a
small but positive influence on leaf turgor and thus accumulation of solutes. Fry et
al. (1989) said potassium had no effect on visual quality of creeping bentgrass on a
sand medium. The amounts of K are not as apparent as that of N. Isaac and
Canaway (1987) had conflicting reports on K amounts which may be due to modern
use of free-draining sand-based rootzones for golf greens, from which potassium is
readily leached. For this reason it is suggested that on sandy media to apply K in
light, frequent applications, but only if the crowns are below the thatch (Shearrnan,
1988). He suggested that along with the K fertility applications, other good cultural
practices and traffic-control procedures can help reduce immediate and chronic/long-
term turf injury.

It is important to understand the intricate balance and interrelation of the entire
plant growth process (Freeborg & Daniel 1985). Christians et al. (1981) found that
effects of K on the quality and growth of Kentucky bluegrass (KBG) depend on the
levels of the other applied nutrients. They also showed a positive growth response to
K at lower N levels and a negative response to K at high levels of N. Lodge et. al.
(1990) compared red fescue and creeping bentgrass on a sand rootzone with three
levels of N-P-K. Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) growing on a sand rootzone
responded to N and K with nitrogen increasing the traffic tolerance of the top growth
at the expense of root growth. Cockerham et al. (1994) reported a significant
improvement in turfgrass rooting when K was applied with the nitrogen . Reactions

and relationships other than between nitrogen and potassium have also been

5 0
documented. Colclough and Canaway (1989) cited that ground cover and botanical

composition were affected by the interaction of phosphorus and nitrogen. And lastly
Yust et al. (1984) found that combining Fe and N can result in acceptable turfgrass
color with lower rates of N.

Athletic field performance is dependent on the audience evaluating the field:
fans, players, media etc. Turf managers, especially at higher levels of competition,
are under the most scrutiny. Canaway and Baker (1993) indicated that plant factors
affecting playing quality include turfgrass species, cultivar, biomass, density, ground
cover, height of cut, and root biomass.

The objective of the study was to determine the effects of nitrogen and
potassium rates and ratios on turfgrass color, quality and overall stability of a sand

based athletic field.

Materials & Methods

A study began September 1993 at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center
(HTRC) on the campus of Michigan State University in which nitrogen and potassium
fertilizers were applied to a one year old perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) grown
on a sand based athletic field. The perennial ryegrass was a blend consisting of;
Dandy, Delray, and Target cultivars (all in equal percentages) that had been seeded
14 August 1992 at 240 kg seed/ha. The experiment was conducted as a completely
randomized design. Plot sizes measured 4.6 m by 3 m. The fertilizer products used
in the study were; Anderson‘s (Maumee, OH) Nutralene (40-0-0); Turfgrass Greens

and Tees Fertilizer (South Lyon, MI) (25-0-25); and soluble potash (0060). The N

51
sources in Nutralene were: 14.5% WIN, 5.0% urea N, and 20.5% slowly available

WSN. The Greens and Tees fertilizer contained 17.6% urea N and 7.4% NO, and
25 % soluble K20. The treatments were nitrogen/potassium ratios typical of common

fertility programs used on athletic fields as shown in Table 2.1.

Table 2.1. Total N and K20 applied, Sept.-Nov. 1993, May-Nov. I994.

 

kg/ha/ 1993 kg/hal 1994
W J K,0 _jg___K,9_
l 0.5X/0 98 0 147 0
2 0.5Xl0.5Y 98 98 ’ I47 147
3 0.5X/Y 98 196 I47 294
4 XIY (control) 196 196 294 294
5 XII .SY 196 294 294 441
6 1.5X/0.5Y 294 98 441 147

X = Nitrogen
Y = Potassium (K20)

Since the study began Fall 1993 and only 3 fertilizer applications were made a
minimal amount of data was collected in 1993. Fertilizer applications were made on
2 Sept., 4 Oct., and 28 Oct. 1993. The rates were divided into equal applications
reflective of the total amount applied for the year (1993). This same distribution was
again followed for 1994. Six applications were made in 1994 on 5 May, 2 June, 5
July, 8 Aug., 2 Sept., and 6 Oct.. Treatments were watered in with overhead
irrigation for approximately 5 minutes following application. Wear treatments were
applied using the Brinkman Traffic Simulator (BTS) (Cockerham and Brinkman,
1989) beginning 2 September 1994. In two passes at an average of 14 cleats per

square foot per roller, the BTS makes 56 cleat dents per square foot, the equivalent of

52
one football game within the Zone of Traffic Concentration (ZOTC), (Cockerham and

Brinkman, 1989). The BTS weighs 450 kg and was pulled by a John Deere 5100
tractor as discussed in Chapter 1. Traffic simulation was conducted from 28 Aug.
through 16 Nov. 1993 for a total of 46 simulated games and from 2 Sept. to 9 Nov.
at which time approximately 42 games had been simulated.

Data collected included turfgrass color, density, quality, traction, tissue
analysis, clipping yields, root biomass, and susceptibility to red thread (Laetisaria
firciformis). Color was rated on the same scale as that presented in chapter 1 as well
as density, quality, root biomass and tissue analysis. Traction was measured with the
Eijkelkamp shear-vane (Chapter 1). Means of three measurements per plot were
recorded and are given in Newton-meters (Nm). Clipping yields were collected from
an area approximately 1.8 m2 (19 ft’), dried at 55°C, and weighed for yield
measurements for the growth periods of 30 May to 2 June, 30 June to 5 July, and 30
July to 5 August. Tissue analysis was conducted as explained in Chapter 1. Total
nitrogen was determined using the Kheldahl procedure (Schuman et al., 1973). Red
thread (Laetisaria filciformis) development became apparent in June 1994 and was
measured visually by recording the number of infected areas per plot (14 m2).
Treatment means for all data collected were statistically compared through use of

ANOVA analysis with LSD values at the P=0.05 level.

5 3
Results and Discussion

Color

Color ratings were conducted in Fall only, due to the simulation of wear and
correlation of typical athletic field use periods (i.e. football/soccer seasons).
Minimum acceptable color rating was 5. Color differences were significant among
the fertilizer treatments for all dates in both 1993 and 1994 (Table 2.2). In 1993
significant color differences were noted as N amounts increased. Treatments
receiving 0.5x annually had lower color ratings than the X and 1.5x treatments.
There were no significant differences between the X and 1.5x treatments as color
ratings were quite similar between the two. All three of the treatments having 0.5X
showed significant color differences compared to the other treatments in 1993. Color
ratings were higher for increased K amounts for all but one date (1 Oct.). Only the
treatments receiving no potassium suffered a significant color loss. Results in 1994
provided a positive relationship between N rate and color. The 1.5x (441 kg
N/ha/year) treatment received the highest color ratings for all dates and yet the
control received acceptable color ratings. No significant difference were recognized
for treatments having the same nitrogen amounts but different levels of potassium.
The treatment receiving no potassium rated much better in 1994 than in 1993.
Turfgrass color responses followed the nitrogen applied. Comparisons between
different potassium levels at similar N levels showed little difference in turfgrass color

in 1994.

54

 

 

 

 

36¢. 9. 3~u> as. 2:2 9. «flux .48....
£6": 9. 87> a... .52 9. 2: ix .82..
63898: m we. :92» fauna .Escfiu_ "a; 078 .530.

 

 

«a. an en a a a z 2 v
ad ad a... o._ 3 .3 .3 a... 9o 3 o._
v... 3. 3 a.» 3 3 ..m 3 as a: 3
..o 3 a.» .3 as as to S. 3. me 3
an no 3. A .3 2. .3 3 3 as I. 2
3. an 3. 3 _.n ..n 4... a... an 3 am
«.4 3. 3 a... an an 3. an an an ..o
a... an ..n 3 an o.» 5 an an 3 3
.82 a .60 3 ..8 a ..8 2 .3 a. .38 on .53. a a3. 2 .aom a .13. N as... 8
omn—
8 - 2 N.
S I he 2
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3
3 o.» 3 3
9e 3 as 3
an a... no 3
3. a... an 3
5oz 2 ..oo _ .38 8 .aom 2
2ND

 

moan—:5...“ 8:30

_o>o_ mad 3 Dmi—
>m.c\Xm._
>m.=X
Cob—50v >>ix
>336
>99de
@336
3

ga—

BEEEE 3an

.05. mod .a OS
>n.o\xm._
>m.:x
22:88 tax
>336
>md§md
@336
305.8.

na—

...38 manor 35—22. 33058. .5 5:33.. 52350.. .23 comes:— .o 60...? of. ”Na 033—.

55

Quality

No quality ratings were collected in 1993. In 1994 quality ratings were
conducted prior to and during traffic simulation (Table 2.3). Quality ratings were
based on a both color and density. Throughout the study the treatment receiving the
highest amount of N (1.5X) also received the highest quality ratings. Again, the
control received acceptable ratings. This trend was recognized for all dates other than
the April and early May ratings when the field was still recovering from winter
damage. Higher quality ratings were associated with high N treatments. Nitrogen is
critical to turfgrass color and density. Potassium is important to wear tolerance.
Wear tolerance is a function of turf density, which K provides for. This explains the
higher quality ratings given to treatments receiving greater N amounts. The
importance of K fertility became apparent mid-way through traffic simulation (7 Oct.)
at which point 24 games had been simulated. Potassium did not appear to improve

quality ratings for treatments that were low in nitrogen content (0.5X).

Density

Density ratings were not collected in 1993. Similar trends were apparent for
density as was seen with quality. Density ratings were conducted in the Fall 1994
and significant differences were noted among the treatments (Table 2.4). Potassium
had little effect at low N levels. It is thought that N may have been limiting for these
treatments since only three pounds had been applied through the course of the
growing season. It was noted that when K is held steady and N is increased higher

densities were obtained.

56

 

.96. 2..... 3... a 385:»... .ozumzN
2.5.x 9. gau> ..:. éz 9. 39$. 38.:
2.3808 m as. ..a .821. .252» 2...». .9. 9a.: 9.1.5.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

a. on X. 8 «N m. E o. e
o. 3 9. a. N. 3 a... o. 3
3 3 as 3 n... a... o... 3 ..w
3 .3 ..e 3 3 I. 3 3 3
3 ..o 3 3 as 3 3 3 ..h
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
3 3 3 ..m 3 3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 .3 o.“ 3 3 3
.82 a .60 ..N .30 .N ..8 n. .80 .. .aom on .38 MN .aum 2 .23 a
2.45
c.. ... 3 3 3 N. o. 2 m2 smz
v... 4... a... ..w 3 n... ..a Z 3 a...
3 a... ..s I. 3 as I. 3 3 3
3 3 3 ..h 3 ..h 3 3 3 3
3 ..h 3 ..e 3 3 3 3 3 3
3 o... 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
an I. an 3 3 3 an 3 3 an
.18 N .95. e. .92. . >..: z 25.. on 25. n. ..: .m as. 2 as. e ....< o.
0.30

3.225... 8an
.33 mod 3 am..—

>m.o\Xm._
>m. :X
293.53 >>.:..X
>\Xm.c
>m.o\Xm.O
OCAnd

Eve—30:.

GEE: ema—

_o>o_ 3.0 .a OS

>253.
>33.
23:8. >.....x
>5...
$.25...
2x“...
and

3581...: v3—

..nuc_.=.uoo .8on.... have: we: 2 core 5:3... 883? 35.22. cc DEE... 53389. v5. comet... be Unto of. "Wm 93:.

57

 

2.59. 9. vo~u> .5 2:2 9. «flux .38.:
.879 69:38 $ 958 .3259.

 

 

«v 9.. 3 a z m. z o. v
n. .. n. m. z N. : z n
3 2. 9. E 8 3 3 8 8
S 2 8 S S S x 3 No
on :. 2. S 8 : E 2 8
an 3 x 2. me 8 N... ..m 2
on 3 em 9. 3 on 3 S S
3. N3 8 a. S X a 8 3
.82 a ..8 ..N ..8 .~ ..8 n. .30 h .38 on .33. 8 .3 e. .25 o
2.45

3.22:... .8an
.96. 36 .a 03

>333.
>05.
2828. it...
>32...
>323
e3...
.cosawohh.

v3 _

..bmmcov 82w»? 3::an vow—052. no .353. 8338?. v5 comet}. be Unto 2:. .v.~ 03:.

58
Shear Measures

In 1993 shear measures were collected on three dates (Table 2.5) for both
trafficked and non-trafficked treatments. No noticeable shear differences were noted
in 1993. For 1994 there were no significant shear differences observed on trafficked
areas among fertilizer treatments for all dates (Table 2.6). Perennial ryegrass has a
bunch-type growth habit and a minimal thatch layer. The combination of growth
habit and very low thatch levels likely explains the low shears recorded.

Treatments not receiving traffic did show significant shear differences on 6 of
9 fall rating dates in 1994. Potassium did not appear to be the nutrient that caused
the shear measure differences but rather nitrogen. Shears were lowest for the
treatments receiving the highest N. The 1.5x treatment left the turf extremely
succulent which explains the lower shear values. The control provided adequate
shears as well as the 0.5x treatment in combination with Y (294 kg KZO/ha/year)

(Table 2.6).

Tissue Analysis

Plant tissue analysis was conducted in the months of June, July, and August
1994. Nutrients which exhibited significant differences across fertilizer treatments are
given in Table 2.7. Significant N differences were noted in June and July.
Significant differences in potassium levels were noted in June but not in July and
August. A possible explanation for this is that the cool—season turf plant grows at
slower rate in the months of July and August. Plant uptake in these months is lower

than spring and fall periods due to lower root respiration rates (Beard, 1973). Other

59

25s. e. 8. u> E. .52 9. 8. ux .23:
.82 .322: .5362 5 52» 33:9

 

 

 

8 «a 2 fl 2 2 Base: 8&5
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 :5. 85 a 33
q: I: ..8 3: a: 02 >333.
«.2 3: to. ed. 3.: SN >95“
3. ..2 ”.2 ..: 0: a2 cease >5“
v.2 f: 3: 2: 68 92 >23
".2 I: 92 a: 3: «.2 >323
..2 _.o~ S... we ..: 0.2 9x3

2258;.
..8 : ..oo _ .38 8 ..oo : ..uo . .aom om
oEEHéOZ 053,—.

..oéamuoE .85 38on 35.22. noe— :o 35.3.. 83329. new comet:— ..o 80:0 of. "ad 03:.

60

 

 

..25. 3.... no... a 335:»... azumz

aces. 9. a~u> ..:. 2:2 e. «flux .28.:

.52 222: .5362 5 82a 38am.

 

 

 

 

 

..N E a. m2 m2 m2 N. n. a.
n3 new «..: ..: N... 9.: 3.. od. 3.
3H 92 3... ..8 3.. N: ..w. 2.. 0.0.
9% 3a 9a. 3.. 3. 5.. .3. a: «.2
«.3 3a 98 98 ed. 3... Z: 3.. .3.
In 98 3. 3.. ad. 5.. 9: .2. 5.
3a 3a ”a. tom «.2 3.. we. 3. 3.
.82 a ..8 8 .80 .N .80 n. .80 h .38 on .aow ma .aom o. .33. o
245
9 a an on E w. z a. v
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 $2
a... Z. Z. 3.. ma. ”.2 2.. ..: N:
3. Z. «.2 3. ..: I”. .2. 2. ma.
.2. 2. on. 2. «a. 2. en. 3. 0.:
2. 9n. 2. .2. 3... 3.. E. an. 3.
ca. .2. 3.. 3. 3.. 3.. Na. .3. .2.
..: 3. ..: 3.. 3: 3. ..N. ca. «.2
.82 a ..8 am ..8 .N ..8 m. ..8 a .8... on .aom a .38 a. ..8m a
945

.26. mod 3 03

>n.o\Xn._
>m. :X
20.5.58 >>.._..X
>\Xm.c
>W.O\Xm.c
9X96

a

uEE.-:ez

3.22:? $an
_o>o_ mod 3 Q3

>m.o\Xm._
>m. :X
29.2.53 >>.:..X
>\Xm.o
>m.o\Xm.O
9X90

E05. ..woclh

952,—.

.8530:— 321 88on 35.20.. am— .5 DEE... 83389. 15. 535: ..o 80...... 2:. 6d 03:.

61

Nun

Nu— n
8:
one
..va
:3.
n. «v

..:
..w.
ed.
ad.
ad.
9n.

nN

an.
.6
3.
wo
8.
.N.

Yon
Q3.
9.3
Nfin
nén
«fin

$2

a...
..v
9n
Wm
n.n
.mm

 

 

al.... .2

.26. 3...... mod .n 385:»... 82 u m2.
2.5... 9. 3~u> .5 2.2 9. «flux 63......
3...... .55.... .2. 8.2. E 382...... 32.0. 32.52

 

 

a... as. a... no
n... S... to. 3.
n... S... 3.. M...
3. $3 3.. n.
..m 3% ..: N.
..n .8. a... 9m
.3 88 ..m. N.
3... mo: =Io. z.
2....

33 w... w... on m...
.3... ..m 0.3 a... N...
3... n... ..: w... ..m
an: 5. a... 2 Q.
.3... t. ..3 N... ~.~
2.8 N... v.3 ..m ..N
.32 ..m v.2. a... o.
2. ms. .54 m z.
0.5..

.28. mod 3 CW.

>m.c\Xm..
>m. _ .X
20.258 >7...“
>\Xn.o
>m.o\Xm.c
0336

.coE.~o..|...

wag 5.5.2

6.5.3.... 2.8.. gun... 35.20.. .8 ..:—Eu. 52850.. v.3 couch... .o Bake 2.... gnu 03a...

62
nutrients that exhibited differences included molybdenum, copper, and calcium.

Clipping Yields

Clipping yields were taken 2 June, 5 July, and 5 August. As expected
treatments receiving the highest N amount had the greatest amount of clippings (Table
2.8). Both the X and 0.5x treatments had correspondingly lower yields, respectively.

Potassium levels did not indicate any apparent trends.

Root Biomass
No significant differences were noted although a trend was recognized.
Observations showed that treatments having 0.5X/0 and O.5X/O.5Y treatments had

higher root biomass than higher K amount treatments (Table 2.9).

Red Thread

The data presented in Table 2.10 reconfirms previous research. Perennial
ryegrass is known to be quite susceptible to red thread (Laetisaria firciformis),
particularly on nitrogen deficient turfs (Smiley, 1983). Although no significant red
thread differences were observed, it was noted that treatments receiving lower N

amounts had higher incidents of red thread presence.

Conclusions
Nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) are extremely important for turfgrass survival.

Fertilizer treatments having higher amounts of nitrogen and potassium had

63

 

2.5a. 9. guns, ..5 .ez 9. «flux «8......

 

h o. m
m6 m... n...
N.Nn v.Nn _.Nm
v.3 adv 9m—
n._n 93 N6.
9n. 9; n...
«.2 v.3 nd
a. W. P.

3:92 33. 0:3
go.

538» 23. u
.96. mod 3 as

>w.o\Xn._
>n.:x
29:53 >>.:..x
>336
>m.o\Xm.o
Qde

2258;.

..mEoR 9.15:0 $3on .3522. so 5:33.. 839.39. .23 comoE: be 30:0 2: £.N 03:.

64

.§§t_v.=3c_=w_m oz 62
2.59. 9. 3~u> ..s. 2:2 9. saux .29.:
do» .3 ..:» E :03» momma—o5 .oom .

 

 

mz , m2 5 3... a 9.3
3 5 >253.
n. 3 >22
I o... 2928. >>._..x
n. .2 >33...
..N 3. >253...
3 w... 2x2.
BOO—um EUWAU “505.85%

 

£55 oEEam

.vao. .>oZ E 3:258: bate. 3:852 5.. .3385 .001 5.N 23:.

65

m2 m2 m2 m2
ad Cd 0.6 Cd
ed 0.0 Cd 0.0
n6 w. 06 n6
Wm m6 n._ m.—
n.n n.m o.~ m.~
w. w.~ n._ w.—

«EE .2.— mwo... 3.8....
..mom M .u:< ow .u=< e. .u:< _

e..oa. 9. 3~u> ..5 2.2 9. eouux .32:
._o>o_ 2...—a mod 3 385:3... .oZUmZ.

m2

od
od
n6
m.—
m.~
m.—

.mZ

ad
ad
ad
w.—
m.~
m.~

 

32. v. 2..: cm

 

2.5

5 no.0 .a 03

>n.o\Xm._
>m._\x
cot—.00. >\..:._X
>336
>m.o\Xm.O
Qde

.cuE.ao..—.

va—

.mm8uoh. 1.5—Boa 5 559.3088 Aumztoboa creatusv v3.5 to. co DEE... 62830.. as. comes... .0 Soto 05. .o. .N 03....

66
signifieantly higher color ratings compared to lower levels. Turf quality and density

were also enhanced for those treatments containing more nitrogen and potassium. No
treatment proved better than another in terms of shear vane measures (rotational
force). The treatment receiving the highest amount of N (441 kg N/ha/year) obtained
the highest quality ratings yet did not provide high shear measures. As traffic
simulation continued, shear vane measures dropped for all treatments through the
course of the study but no differences among fertility regimes were detected. Due to
its growth habit, perennial ryegrass has very little to no thatch and poor recuperative
ability. Tissue analysis indicated a significant potassium difference amongst
treatments for only one of three months. Overall, the control (X/Y) provided the best
turf conditions. Nitrogen appeared to be more of a controlling factor than potassium
based upon low quality ratings for those treatments low in nitrogen but having
moderate levels of potassium. Depending on soil conditions, the magnitude of
nutrient output can substantially influence fertilizer requirements. Nitrogen and
potassium are readily leached in sandy soils (Turgeon, 1991), and for this reason
these nutrients should be monitored either by tissue or soil testing. They must also be

applied more frequently and at environmentally appropriate levels.

' 67
literature Cited

Baker, S.W. and S.P. Isaac. 1987. The effect of rootzone composition on the
performance of winter games pitches II, playing quality. J. Sports Turf Res.
Inst. 63:67-81.

Beard, LB. 1973. Turfgrass:Science and Culture. Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs,
NJ. 410pp.

Beard, LB. 1984. Turfgrass nutrition. Florida Turf Digest. l(3):28-29.

Canaway, P.M. 1985. The response of renovated turf of Lolium perenne (perennial
ryegrass) to fertilizer nitrogen 1. Ground cover response as affected by
football-type wear. J. Sports Turf Res. Inst. 61:92-99.

Canaway, P.M. 1989. Sand constructions: the importance of understanding nutrition.
Parks, Golf Courses and Sports Grounds. 54(5):16-l7.

Canaway, P.M. and S.W. Baker. 1993. Soil and turf properties governing play. J.
Sports Turf Res. Inst. 7:192-200.

Canaway, P.M. and J.W. Hacker. 1988. The response of Lolium perenne grown on a
prunty-mulgueen sand carpet rootzone to fertilizer nitrogen. I. ground cover
response as affected by football-type wear. J. Sports Turf Res. Inst. 64:63-74.

Carroll, M.J., L.H. Slaughter, and J .M. Krouse. 1994. Turgor potential and osmotic
constituents of Kentucky bluegrass leaves supplied with four levels of
potassium. Agron. J. 86(6):]079-1083.

Christians, N.E., D.P. Martin, and KJ. Kamok. 1981. The interactions among
nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium on the establishment, quality, and
growth of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.‘Merion’). Proc. of the
Intl. Turfgrass Res. Conf. 4:341-348.

Clement, C.R., M. J. Hopper, and L.H.P. Jones. 1978. The uptake of nitrate by
mm m from flowing nutrient solution. J. of Exp. Bot. 29(109):453-
464.

Cockerham, S.T., D.J. Brinkman. 1989. A simulator for cleated-shoe sports
traffic. Cal. Turfgrass Culture. 39(3,4):9-ll.

Cockerham, S.T., V.A. Gibeault, and M. Borgonovo. 1994. Effects of nitrogen and
potassium on high-trafficked sand rootzone turfgrass. Cal. Turfgrass Culture.
44(1,2):4-6.

68

Cockerham, S.T., V.A. Gibeault, J. Van Dam, and MK. Leonard. 1991. Traffic
tolerance of cool season turfgrasses. Golf Course Mgmt. 59(8):44-51.

Colclough, T., and P.M. Canaway. 1989. Fertiliser nutrition of sand golf greens III.
Botanical composition and cover. J. Sports Turf Res. Inst. 65:55-63.

Davidson, D.B. and N .W. Hummel. 1990. Management factors influencing
manganese nutrition of creeping bentgrass. p.172. In Agronomy abstracts.
ASA, Madison, WI.

Freeborg, R.P. and W.H. Daniel. 1985. Turf nuu’ient nwds. Weeds, Trees and
Turf. 24(8):26-32.

Fry, J.D., M.A. Harivandi, and DD. Minner. 1989. Creeping bentgrass response to
P and K on a sand medium. HortScience. 24(4):623-624.

Gibbs, K.J. 1990. Maintaining surface stability on sand-based athletic fields.
Grounds Maintenance. 25(3):58-64.

Isaac, S.P., and P.M. Canaway. 1987. The mineral nutrition of Festuca-Agrostis golf
greens. .1. Sports Turf Res. Inst. 63:9-27.

Lodge, T.A., T.W. Colclough, and P.M. Canaway. 1990. Fertiliser nutrition of sand
golf greens. VI. Cover and botanical composition. J. Sports Turf Res. Inst.
66:89-99.

Lodge, T.A., S.W. Baker, P.M. Canaway, and D.M. Lawson. 1991. The
construction, irrigation, and fertilization of golf greens. 1. Botanical and
reflectance assessments after establishment and during the first year of
differential irrigation and nutrition treatments. 11. Sports Turf Res. Inst. 67:32-
43.

Schuman, G.E., M.A. Stanley, and D. Knudsen. 1973. Automated total nitrogen
analysis of soil and plant samples. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. Proc. 37:480-481.

Shearman, R.C. 1988. Improving sports turf wear tolerance. Proc. of the 58th
Ann. Mich. Turfgrass Conf. 17:153-155.

Smiley, R.W. 1983. Compendium of Turfgrass Diseases. Amer. Phytopath. Soc.
St. Paul, MN. p.19-20.

Turgeon, A.J. 1991. Turfgrass Management, Third Edition. Prentice-Hall,
Englewood Cliffs, NJ. 158pp.

69

Waddington, D.V., A.E. Gover, and D.B. Beegle. 1994. Nutrient concentrations of
turfgrass and soil test levels as affected by soil media and fertilizer rate and
placement. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis. 25(11-
12):l957-1990.

Yust, A.K., D.J. Wehner, and T.W. Fermanian. 1984. Foliar applieation of N and
Fe to Kentucky bluegrass. Agron. J. 76:934-938.

CHAPTER THREE
Sod Strategies for Establishing
Athletic Turf with Sand Based Rootzones

ABSTRACT

Sodding is the preferred establishment method for newly constructed sports fields
with sand based rootzones. This method of establishment is done primarily to assure
availability for use due to time constraints. Numerous grass species and sod types are
currently available for cool season sites. The need to determine which of these sod
species performs best for sand based athletic field establishment was needed. A study
was conducted at Michigan State University’s Hancock Turfgrass Research Center in
which different sod types were evaluated when established on a sand-base athletic
research field and subsequent athletic type traffic simulated. The Kentucky bluegrass
(KBG), Poa pratensis, blend/perennial ryegrass (PRG), Lolium perenne, blend sod
treatment grown initially on plastic performed significantly better than other sod
treatments when established on the research field. The Poa supina sod treatment reared
on plastic had lower quality ratings within the first two months of the study but
maintained adequate quality ratings as traffic simulation continued. The washed KBG
blend had the lowest quality ratings in months of October and November. Shear vane
measures were highest for the KBG/PRG sod mix treatment followed by the KBG blend
grown on plastic. Application of the plant growth regulator (PGR) trinexapac-ethyl one
week after sodding improved both color and quality with the added benefit of reduced
mowing. Density ratings were also higher for PGR treatments as the plant growth

regulator promoted lateral topgrowth.

70

71

Sod Strategies for Establishing
Athletic 'Durf with Sand Based Rootzones

Introduction

Public and athlete attitudes are shifting the use of artificial turf surfaces for
athletic fields back towards the use of natural turfgrass (Cockerham, 1989; Canaway,
1990). Newly constructed athletic fields, as discussed in Chapter 1 are making use of
sand based root mixtures. These fields are often used intensely and when renovation is
needed are commonly sodded for quick availability. Following two years of research at
Michigan State University’s Hancock Turfgrass Research Center (HTRC), data indicated
significantly higher color, density, quality, and shear vane measurements for the washed
Kentucky bluegrass establishment method compared to the perennial ryegrass seeding
establishment method for sand based athletic fields. That study confirmed the importance
of sod establishment particularly if the turf is subjected to heavy use in its first year,
which typically is the case.

Different sod types, particularly in regard to how they are raised and on what
medium, influences the extent of subsequent rooting. Earlier studies indicated that sod
grown on organic soil rooted better than that grown on mineral soil (King and Beard,
1969). Recently, soil-less sods are being made available to the consumer. Davis and
Pratt (1982) determined that roofing from a washed sod was more than twice that of the
unwashed sod averaged across different growing media. Washed sod also had reduced
surface hardness and better lateral shear strength than unwashed sod (Casimaty et al.,
1993). Washed sods also provided more favorable water infiltration rates. Sods, in

general, are more strongly knitted than seeded turf areas. Beard (1973) defines this

72
”knitting" as the inter-twining of rhizomes, stolons, and/or roots. The more strongly knit

a sod is, the less likely it is to tear if harvested and replanted. Root initiation and mass
are two factors that influence the overall traffic tolerance of sod. Ross et al. (1991)
determined that sod tearing strength was related to the mass and orientation of roots.
Their research indicated that two Poa cultivars had higher sod tearing strengths followed
by Festuca, Lolium, and Agrostis cultivars. Recent developments have allowed for turf
to be reared on soil-less mediums, most notably compost that is placed on top of plastic
sheeting. These types of sods have shown greater root mass binding as well as quicker
rooting (Decker, 1989). Sods grown in that manner also save valuable topsoil.
Typical sod species used on athletic fields in cool-season climates include
Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. Gaussoin (1994) indicated that grasses with
tougher leaves and wider leaf blades are more wear resistant and that rhizomatous and
stoloniferous grasses recuperate quicker than bunch grasses. Another turfgrass used on
athletic fields in cool season regions, particularly Northern Europe, is Poa supina. P.
supina was discovered in the Alps and a German plant brwder developed the cultivar
’Supranova’ (Lundell, 1994). Although its vertical growth is slow, it is quite wear
tolerant. Mixes containing up to 20% P. supina produce excellent results on athletic
field when mixed with species of similar color (Lundell, 1994). P. supina also prefers
moist to very moist soils (Kock and Walch, 1977). Its use within the United States is
minimal due to the fact that other, more desirable, turf species are available. It has been
used in small amounts at various locations around the country (Mrock, 1995). Besides
its high swd cost, which is the result of minimal breeding work, Poa supina has a very

light green color relative to Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass species. One

7 3
advantage of Poa supina is a strong stoloniferous growth habit. Athletic field managers

residing in colder regions lack a turf species of such a growth habit and for this reason
Poa supine may show promise in gaining acceptance in cool-season grass regions of the
United States.

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) came into use in the 19503 in attempts to
minimize labor by reducing time required to mow turf settings on a daily basis. In some
cases mowing has been reduced by as much as 50% (Harlow, 1994). Mowing can be
extremely difficult to conduct on a newly harvested sod because rooting is not immediate.
Although there is a risk of some phytotoxicity, PGRs have been shown to improve
turfgrass quality and enhance uptake efficiency for most macro-elements and some micro-
elements at lower fertility levels (Yan et al., 1993). PGRs are typically classified into
one of two types. Type I PGRs, such as paclobutrazol and flurprimidol, work by
blocking the plant hormone gibberellic acid. Type II PGRs inhibit growth as well as
suppress seed head development (e.g. mefluidide) (Harlow, 1994). The most recent PGR
now on the market is trinexapac-ethyl and with it another classification group. So now
PGRs may be classified into one of three classes. Class A PGRs interfere with
gibberellic production (e.g. trinexapac-ethyl). Class B PGRs also disrupt gibberellin
productivity but earlier in the biosynthetic pathway compared to Class A growth
regulators. Paclobutrazol and flurprimidol are examples of class B PGRs. And Class
C plant growth regulators are mitiotic inhibitors. Class C PGRs work by preventing cell
division which provides excellent seed head control. Mefluidide is an example of a Class
C PGR (Watschke and DiPaola, 1995).

Literature indicated that minimal research in using PGRs to improve sod rooting

74
and strength has been conducted.’ However, the research that has been done in this area

shows that PGRs can be of definite benefit. Brown and White (1974) illustrated that Poa
pratensis var. ’Baron’ u‘eated with growth regulator and supplemental potassium
produced twice the root growth compared to grass treated with growth regulators.
Within the past two years Hall and Bingham (1993) demonstrated that certain growth
regulators had no negative impact on sod strength or sod installation rooting. Research
done by Elam (1993) indicated that cimetacarb (Primo 256’), now known as trinexapac-
ethyl, produced no significant differences in the dry root weight and thus no differences
in root biomass. Johnson (1993) reported that trinexapac-ethyl injured centipedegrass
(Eremochloa ophiuroides) aboveground parts and suppressed some seed head
development.

Canaway and Baker (1993) stated that soil moisture content and water movement
are key variables in determining playing quality of sports surfaces. They went on to say
that aesthetic quality is measured by color, density, and uniformity with playing quality
being measured by ball rebound, roll, traction, and hardness. The objective of this study
was to evaluate and determine the most efficient sodding strategy for establishing a high
quality sports turf in a sand based rootzone given the parameter that the field will be
subjected to use shortly after establishment. The factors utilized in determining this
included three sod species either as mixtures or monostands. The sod species used were
also raised on differing mediums. The foliar absorbed PGR trinexapac-ethyl (Primo) was
also used. The objective in using the PGR was to see how effective its use would be in
slowing the growth of the sodded turfgrass so mowing would not be necessary and to

determine if it would improve turfgrass color, density, wear tolerance, etc.

7 5
Materials 8: Methods

The experimental design of this study was a two factor strip-plot randomized
complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Plot size was 3 m X 6 m. Six
sodding regimes comprised the first factor, and two levels of plant growthregulator
(PGR) were stripped over the first factor. The sod treatments were; Kentucky bluegrass/
perennial ryegrass mixture grown on plastic, perennial ryegrass (PRG) blend grown on
plastic, Kentucky bluegrass (KBG) blend grown on plastic, washed KBG blend, KBG
blend grown on a Rensselaer soil series (Fine-loamy, mixed, mesic, typic Argiaquoll),
and Poa supina grown on plastic. The sod treatments defined as being grown on plastic
had a medium of yard waste compost in which to grow. The KBG treatments defined
as grown on plastic had the following cultivars; I 757, Columbia, Trenton, New-Blue, and
Rugby. Palmer 11, Dandy, and Citation I] made up treatments having perennial ryegrass.
The Poa supina treatment contained both Supra and Supranova varieties. Both the
washed and mineral grown sod treatments contained the Kentucky bluegrass cultivars;
Aspen, Kelly, Midnight, Rugby, and Trenton.

Starter fertilizer (Scott‘s 16-25-12 at a rate of 150 kg P/ha) was applied just prior
to the laying of sod. Mineral grown sod treatments were laid 6 July 1994 and those
treatments grown on plastic were laid 2 August. The sod treatments were laid on the
same PAT field as described in Chapter 1. All sod treatments were rolled twice
following laying using a Jacobsen Greens King triplex roller (Jacobsen Div. of Textron
Inc., Racine, WI). PGR treatments were applied 9 August, one week after the last sod
treatment was applied. Trinexapac-ethyl (Primo) was applied at labeled rates (0.4 kg

a.i.lha).

76
The plot was topdressed on 16 August, 23 August, and 30 August using a Turfco

machine powered topdresser (Turfco, St. Paul, MN). The 80 sand/20 peat mix was used
for the topdressing applications to maintain a uniform soil profile thus preventing any
layering problems. The sand component of the topdress medium was 60% (by weight)
within the coarse-medium range, 20% in the fine sand range, and the remainder within
the very coarse, fine, and silt size ranges. The rate of soil applied per topdressing was
approximately 97 tons/ha. Sod treatments were initially hand watered to ensure viability,
rooting, and prevent desiccation. On 22 August and 12 September, 18-3-18 was applied
at a rate of 24 kg N/ha. 18-4-10 was put down at 24 kg N/ha rate on 6 October. A
final fertilizer application consisting solely of soluble potash (0-0-50) was distributed 14
October at a 75 kg KZO/ha rate.

Athletic field type traffic simulation began in late August and continued through
early November using the Brinkman Traffic Simulator (BTS) as presented in Chapter 1.
Data collected included turfgrass color, density, quality, root biomass, verdure, and
traction. Color was rated on a weekly basis until 9 Nov. 1994. A scale of 1-9 was
used: 1=brown, 9=dark green, and 5 was an acceptable color. Density was reported
as stated in Chapter 1. Quality ratings were assigned on a scale of 1-9 and were based
upon both color and density characteristics. Plant density was determined by recording
the mean of above-ground plants from two plugs per plot. The mean is presented as the
number of plants per 10 cm2. Samples were collected 20 November using a golf course
cup cutter having a cup diameter of 10.4 cm and were taken from trafficked plot areas
only. One more plug was collected 16 December 1994 in order to determine root

biomass. Root biomass was determined for 0-5 cm and 5-10 cm depths. Roots were

77
separated from soil with the hydropneumatic elutriation system (Smucker et al., 1982).

Traction was measured weekly from 2 Sept. to 9 Nov. on both trafficked and non-
trafficked plots with a field shear vane apparatus as discussed in Chapter 2. Means of
three measurements per plot were recorded and are given in Newton-meters (Nm).
Treatment means for all data collected were statistically compared through use of

ANOVA analysis with LSD values at the 0.05 alpha level.

Results & Discussion
Color

Turfgrass color was significantly higher for the KBG/PRG plastic grown and KBG
mineral grown sod treatments (Table 3.1). Treatments receiving trinexapac-ethyl had
significantly darker green color than treatments not receiving the PGR. Numerous
interactions between the sod treatments and PGR factor took place. The interactions
stemmed from some sod treatments responding more dramatically to the PGR than
others. Trinexapac-ethyl enhanced color by an average of 0.7 across all sod treatments
for dates when interactions took place (Table 3.2). The perennial ryegrass blend grown
initially on plastic had less color response to the trinexapac-ethyl than did the plastic
grown Kentucky bluegrass sod treatments. The Poa supina without PGR did not receive
acceptable color ratings throughout the study. Although trinexapac-ethyl enhanced
turfgrass color significantly there were some phytotoxic effects. These effects were
recognized for approximately a two week period following its application in early
August. The sod treatment X PGR interaction for 2 Sept. is shown in Figure 3.1. The

phytotoxic symptoms of the P. supine sod treatment to the trinexapac-ethyl may have

78

235...... .ozumz

635.3... n ..:a coo.» {Qua 636...". 8.3... a-..

 

vu Nu cu om m. o. o. o. v 3. l- l-
e .._ a _.. ... a _.. .._ .._ ... _.. ..
m6 «6 ad ad n6 ..6 e... we me n6 «.6 m...
W... 0.0 n... ad 9... e... v... as w... v.5 m... m...
m2 m... m... N. m2 6.. a... ... m... n... w... v...
m6 N.“ 9n «6 m6 m6 Wm 9m fin o6 N6 o...
n6 v.0 a... O... N... ..w ..... «.5 9w ..K o... 0...
5m Wm c... we we v... .... n... Nd s... m... o.
06 ..0 ad .... .... ..6 m... o... a... we ...... .6
O6 N... ..6 od ..c m... m... 0... n6 me n... N...
m6 OH o... N... .... o... v... v... m... N... m... .....
m. . . ”Na. 38— ..o to. n... 33 a. mm... 4.. 8 1%
2am.

3.2.5.5 5.5.55 a... 3.2.5.... 8an

.26. no... .u ESE—Em u a.
350.22.30.55 oz
..:.9oaeaxoctk

 

.5... we... 10..

.96. no... .u Om.

2.2.... ..o :30.» 5.3.... wok

=9. .23.... ..o :30.» use... 0.3.
.52.. 0mg 3:33

2.2.... ..o :30... .50... 0.3.
2.2.... cc ESEm 2.02 3.39.5. .n.
2.3... :o 5.5% .28 0.7.}va
.eoE.mo.... .ecm

 

3a .

.128 3....th 3.05878: ..:: v0.05... .8 .2239. £30.» .5... .2... 32:23.. .68 ..o .00....0 2.... u. .n 2......

79

 

 

 

232.58: m ..:: :8.» 2.2.": .:Bo...n. .038 a-..

 

 

NN ..N 8

m... N... n... v... v... m...
N... rd 3. v6 n... n.n N... 1m S. ..m N... in
..o ..6 n... ..m «6 as :6 m.» a... fin v.5 w...
m.m ed a... n... n... a: N. n.» a... ..: N... a...
N6 c... ”6 o.” N... o.” :6 N... ..e as ..o n...
o... m... n6 ..: fin v... o... ..N ..N ..: :6 ms
:6 v... as N.» ad ms M... o.» m... N.» ..6 w.»
mum «Ion fled fl 252 «I... 0.52 a 252 mfl 8oz muou

«6:. .NB. 2:: Na 8:. 2:.

~43

5.22:5 5.5.25 2> 3.2.2:... 8.5.0

.26. mod .a Gm).

232.. :o :30.» :33... gm

:8 .2025 :0 5.63 ..:o... Omv.
..:o... Omv. 322.3

232.. :o :30.» ..:o... Dmv.
2.2.... :o 56% :5... 3a.»??— ...
27.2.. :o :3...» 2.: 01303.
E253... ..cm

2253.... 10..

 

93.

._.o.oo gut... 32058.:0: ..:: 322....8. :o 5.8822 8.22m... 53:.» .:2.. x .:2:.8.. :9. ..o .90....0 2.... NA 2......

80

.32 .38 N :28 at... con—055-3: .8 833.85 83.82 538» .53 x .5832. v8 we Bozo on... "_.n 893....

 

S£9ou9xo¢3 oz I 35903333. §

 

 

 

883 8.8» .m .28.... 09. 08. 0283 833 09. 83... om". .88..“ $59.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

— V b 0
“ .................... ,.
“
“
“ .................... rm
“ m o
\ .................... \ .................. l“ w.
“ \ m
x m
m .................... m m,
“ \ 5
a\ m 9
“ .................... \.... ..1m x
r \ a
....................................................................... \ 2.1. m.
w
.................. fl.
$18.2 03
.............................................................. .1.
Im

 

 

 

 

81
resulted because of its stoloniferous growth habit, which likely increased the amount of

foliar absorbed PGR. Turfgrass color is relative and does not reflect turfgrass

performance, yet the PGR did provide a darker green color thus improving aesthetics.

Density

Turfgrass densities were highest for [’00 pratensis and P00 supine sod treatments
grown on plastic (Table 3.3). This was likely due to the respective growth habits and
the extensive root knitting of those treatments. Both the mineral grown and washed KBG
blend sod treatments did not have the extensive root knitting which the plastic grown sod
treatments possessed. The knitted root mass of the plastic grown sod treatments resulted
in increased wear tolerance compared to the mineral grown sod treatments. PGR
treatments received a slightly lower density rating prior to traffic initiation, but were
significantly higher in density after traffic application began. Some phytotoxicity was
evident for approximately a two week period after growth regulator application. This
phytotoxic effect explains the initially low density ratings but the sod treatments
recovered within two weeks. Although the effects of the PGR application were not as
apparent by mid-September, the lateral growth allowed for higher densities after traffic
simulation. This trend was consistent for all sod treatments.

Table 3.4 shows interactions between the sod and PGR factors. The largest
differences in density were noted for the P. supina and the smallest for washed Kentucky
bluegrass blend treatments. The sod treatment X PGR interactions occurred on; 19
Aug., 16 Sept., and 23 Sept., all of which were within the first month following the PGR

application. The effect of the PGR after a months time was still noticeable but no sod

82

 

em cu «fl ca oN a. o. o. o_ e -2. -:. -:
o o ... a ... ... _._ _.. ... ... m2 ... ...
.m up as «a on o» mm «a am no ca mo co
an .a .m an cw cw _o am no ea co ea co
mz N_ o. a a a o m2 m2 n mz N m
as up up mm mm N» so am _o co no mo No
an nu on ma as as on N” No «a oo 50 co
mp an we as ch .5 em on am No no No mm
on m» an «a Na _a .o _o no so no oo no
mm as ”s on as _w mm mm an .9 «0 oo am
am an 5» ca mm on am am ea oo oo oo oo
”quq mafia ”mama .mqqq magma Nuaq ”mum .mmm wmqm mum Mum wmmw mam“
2am—

.sa..._&_m 623.2
.026 dun—Poo $ 958 3.2—on _

5.22:6 cued—ecu at, 352:3 $65
.96. mod 3 E8_.=:w_mu.._

15068331. oz
REooaaaxocth

 

Eon—28:. «on.
.32 mad 3 OS

2.3... cc :33» e353. com

:3. .2958 :c 55ch use} Omv.
:53 03. 3:33

2.3... :e :32» .382 03.
used... :0 :39» 283 93.3.3. .m
o5“... go :32» 5:. 0x303—
3%

28—

._b_m=on 3.:th voxocufi.-:o: v5 woo—Btu: :o boa—awe. £39m .5... EB 3253: v9. ..o .950 2:. ”Wm 03:.

83

 

 

 

 

 

2 o_ ---
n n _
em vm mm on va oo
5 mu .0 no no no
2. N» am ow mm mm
an «5 oo om ma no
em co 3 Na 2.. oo
5 a No ea am 00
g a... 252 mmvl... 262 «'0...
MM; c _ a a _ \w
2.4

696 692260 $ max! .3359
53:85 535.55 a? 3.22:6 8:30

.96. no.0 3 am..—

oEaE :c .56..» €2.53. com

:3. .225: :e :38» ESE 0mg
:53 0mg 3:33

2.3... :c .55.“ use... 03.
27.2; :e 55% $53 mmflwoxm
37.2.. .5 :32» £8 OmfiOmv.
308.3; vow

E08325. mom

 

va—

._b_m=ov guts. woo—0587.5: Ea onEE. .5 532225 ass—awe. £39» .5... x 285.3: to» ..o Beta 2:. "can 03:.

84
treatment X PGR interactions were noted. The first interaction date indicates that

densities were lower for treated plots on 4 of the 6 sod treatments. The final interaction

date between the sod and PGR factors is shown in Figure 3.2.

Quality

Turfgrass quality ratings are presented in Table 3.5. Overall, the KBG/PRG mix
grown on plastic provided higher quality ratings compared to the other sod treatments.
One note of interest was the washed KBG blend treatment quality ratings. The initial
quality ratings for the washed KBG blend treatment were very high but as traffic
simulation continued, its quality ratings began to drop steadily. This was likely due to
the knitted root mass of which the washed Kentucky bluegrass treatment lacked. The
other sod treatment of note was the P00 supina sod treatment. The Foo supina treatment
had lower quality ratings through the study but they did not decline like the washed KBG
blend treatment. The growth habit of P00 supina is strongly stoloniferous and for this
reason was able to maintain adequate quality. Near the end of the study the quality
ratings for P. supina were similar to those of the highest rated. Although P. supina
received low color ratings, its quality ratings reflect the component of higher density.
Trinexapac-ethyl enhanced quality significantly for all rating dates. Their were several
PGR and sod treatment interactions through the study (Table 3.6). The PGR’S
phytotoxic effect to P. supina on 19 and 26 August allowed for the interactions to occur.
Figures 3.3 and 3.4 also show the sod treatment X PGR interactions for 16 Sept. and 9

Nov. respectively.

85

.32 .x—om mm 5.88.. gut... 3:05... .8 8:028... .8338 532m .5... x 28.58: v8 .3 80...? 0E. "Nd 2.5....

 

 

 

$598853 oz I s£988§£~ S

 

3% 053.5 .L IE: on! on! .8283 0:83 Gm! 0:83 0mm 0:35 E09.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

.. ‘ tr \ It, a
\ \ x \
x \
\ a ..
............. \ ................................... x
\ \

\ION

 

...........................................................

 

 

.............

 

(mm-o) BUDBJ Ausueg

 

 

\\\\;\\\\\\:\\\\\\\ \\\\

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

918.9 o3

 

 

 

I8,

 

86

..5555 .oznmz

63390000 n .05 +5. .33uo 6.59» 23".; ”a-..

 

«N «a 8 8 8 2 2 2 2 v
a o .0 a .0 .0 _._ _.. .0 .0 ... _.. m2
«6 0.“ E «.0 to 0.0 .2 0.0 a... 3 we 3 we
..0 0.0 0.0 3. S. S E 2 es 3 5 2 S
0.0 o._ 3 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 m o no
«.0 2. 3 as 3. 3 3 an 3 3 N0 0 m o.“
3 0.0 a.“ 3 as a.» 3 3 E .2 3 _ w 3..
0.0 an 3 we «.0 N... 2 S S E S N a 3.
an no «.0 no 3. 2. Z S 3 3 Z 3 3
an we no we 3 3 as E. 2 .3 3 3 3
an 3 3 2 2 2. 2 2 as 3 3 ..m _ w
a Ina .15.. file .nllio IS: lens Ila a Ilsa a Na m3 IS
0.45

5.2285 550—:ch a? 3.2250 85.5

.05. mod 3 Ecociflm u ..
350.083.0500 oz
350.0«aaxocth

EoE.w2.r 10n—

_0>o_ 3.0 .0 Om..—

0_.mu_._ :o 550% 3.03:. com

:8 .2055 :o :39» 2.03 0mg
“0:03 Om: 3:33

0:00... :o 5.6% 3.03 Om:
0:3... :0 :39» .053 03033. .L
0:3... :0 :39» um:— Ourtmumv.
3253:. now

 

va—

._b=§v 008308 woe—058.-..o: .050 30.052. :0 022.300 538w Eu:— vca 2.0.53: no» .0 80:0 of. "m4“ 055.

87

 

 

 

 

655.008 m .0.... ..:. .82na ..:...Em 0.2.". "a-..

 

 

«N on on o. -t .:

v.9 ad md n... m... 0.0
m6 N... 9n :6 N6 .... .mm W: N... ..m m.m o...
9.: m6 :6 a6 :6 N... m... ..m w... ed .... we
a... «6 N6 9m ad m6 ..h nfi n... Nu m... we
w.n. N... Na n... We ..w m.: n... N... 0... Nu m...
0.: a... ad ad ..: 0.: ..h w... m... n.m «.5 9m
9: a... N6 N8 we w... mfi n.» e... ...m m... ..d
2.0... may. .847. «ID... 0.52 Mod. 0.8... H04. 282 a 252 Mel...

0... mm}: 25. 0.3 33 0.3

2.5

8.0.356 caExctm a... 3.2.5.... 00an

.0>0. mod .a 0m.

0:3... .8 :3...» 5.35. set

:3. .205... ..o 5.6% .05... 0mg
use... 05. 3:33

0:3... .5 :39» .05... 03.
0:3... .5 Esau .05... $0.33. ...
0:3... .5 gem ..:: OmEOmv.
3w

.coEfiofi. «0..

v3.

..::..? manta 3305.5-.5: .05 18.058. .8 5:028... .2230. £39» .5... x E253: .08 ..o .00.... 0:... 66 2......

88

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LSD (0.05) -O.5

 

...............................................................................

 

 

 

 

WashodKBG mom 51mm

 

 

. r1.- 1‘ .
.....-‘. .~‘.‘...‘....-.._..“- n .'....v‘ 111111

KBG piestlc

 

 

N

1

 

 

 

a\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\x\x

 

 

Wye plastic PRG ptasuc

""""" ‘ z\\\\z\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\i\ \

 

 

 

\ X \ \ j A

a. in .1 o J, £ J: (l. i o
(9|qezdaooe p) Bugm Ameno

 

 

 

 

u Trinexepac-emyl - No tmexqaec-ethyt

 

Figure 3.3: The effect of sod treatment X plant growth regulator interaction on trafficked turfgrass quality. 16 Sept. 1994.

89

 

 

 

L80 (0.”) -O.4

 

.................................
......................

 

 

 

.....
.....

 

    

Em \\\\}\

 

.................................................................

 

 

 

  

a a a a .
a e c a a
. a a e a
a - a a a
a u a a a
. e a a e
. u a a .
, - . o a
a . _ ‘-.a ' . .-_-.-. .'.'i'. .‘.' ‘. > .. ' r‘.'.'.' '.'.'. . . . r (’1'. . u a - y .‘ ,'-‘ ‘ '0‘: n. '1‘" f’ _ 'p'" ."._“ .0, "3,"; ‘ ‘ ...' n . "'_' '. . 'W_'. 0?}

KBGplastlc

 

' \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\§\\ E\\

 

 

 

 

\\\\\\>}X\\\\\\\\§\\\}\\

j,

 

 

 

" g \\\\\\\\\x\\\\\\\\\\\ \ \

 

 

&

k
1L

\ 1 \ L \ KT
'

i J, J: J. A, A.
(e|qe;deooe v) BUQBJ Aweno

 

WashedKBG KBGmherd Emulate

KBG/Rye plastic PRG plastic

 

 

m Trlnexapac-ethyt - No trhearepec-ethyl

 

 

Figure 3.4: The effect of sod treatment X plant growth regulator interaction on trafficked turfgrass quality, 9 Nov. 1994.

9 0
Shear vane Measures

Non-traffic shears are presented in Table 3.7. Both plastic grown sod treatments
containing Kentucky bluegrass had the highest shear values for treatments not receiving
any traffic. There were small fluctuations amongst the sod treatments through the course
of the study but no large differences from one measurement date to another were
recognized. No significant shear differences were noted for the PGR factor.

For treatments that received traffic the Kentucky bluegrass sod treatments grown
on plastic received the highest shear vane measures. The KBG/PRG mix treatment
grown on plastic had the highest shears on all dates (Table 3.8). Growth habit
differences along with mat layer thickness are the likely factors that allowed for these
differences. Dunn et. al. (1994) stated that traction will decrease as thatch and above-
ground biomass also deteriorate. As mentioned previously, both the mineral grown and
washed KBG blend sod treatments did not have the extensive mat layer which the plastic
grown sod treatments possessed. The perennial ryegrass treatment grown on plastic had
a bunch-type growth habit which explains its lower shear measures. No shear vane
differences were noted amongst the plant growth regulator factor and the PGR had no

shear interactions with sod treatments.

Roar Biomass

No differences were noted for either the 0-5 cm or the 5-10 cm depths. The lack
of differences between PGR treatments in both root biomass and shear vane
measurements indicates that a PGR application does not adversely affect turfgrass

rooting. The ability of the turf manager to apply a growth regulator to reduce mowing

91

 

00 00 .00 00 0. 0. 0. 0. 0
02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.0 0.00 5.0
0.0 0.0 0... ..0 0.0 0.0 _.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
..00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 _ .00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 3.0 0.00
0.00 ..00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.0.0 0.0.0 ..00 _.00 0.0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 :0 ..00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
8...— ..0.|: 0 I450 1.....00 .0 '20. J00. m..l0 .0040 mm mm
0.100

0:005:20 .ezumz
..:2 0.0308 .8502 :. 00>.» 003cm _

0.0.0.055 :gxetm 0.> 3.0.05.0 00800

.0>0. mod .0 .50....55 u _._
..2..0.00..3.0:.0. oz
..A...o.02.0..0=t.—.

acoegflvhhr ~— On”

.0>0. mod .0 OW.

0:00... .5 :32» Semi. eel

..e0 .0005:— eo :39» :00... 00.0.
:5... Omv. 3:003

0:00... .8 :32» .000... Omv.
0:00.... :0 :39» .50... 00050.3. .0.
0000.0 =0 0320 :5 000500.
Eon—.30... vow

 

va—

._0o0=03E 009.0 manta 100.05.00.50: .5 0.0.0.300 539m .5... :50 2:08.80. :00 ..o .00....0 0:... "En 050...

92

 

00 00 00 00 0. 0. 0. 0. 0
02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 ..00 0.00 ..00 0.00
0.. 0... 0.0 0... 0.0 ..0 ..0 0... 0...
..00 0.00 0.0 0.0 ..00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.0 0.0 0.0. 0.00 ..0. 0.0 0.00 0.00 0.0
0.00 0.0 0.0 0.00 0.00 0.00 _.00 0.00 ..00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.0 0.00 0.0. 0.0 0.0. 0.00 0.0 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
m: . .0030 .III0.0_ l0:0i_ ..\0l_ 0:|.0 .00.. . 0.. ._ ... mm

0.I0.Q

E00505... .002 umz
.52 0.0.0... 09302 e. 00>.» 0.02.9

5.0.055 00.5.0.5 0:. 3.0.05.0 00.0.00

.26. mod .0 E00555 .I. ...
150.02.000.01. oz
..A...0.00..000:.0...

 

.0333... ”.0..
.0>0. mod .0 Om.

0:00... .5 .560m 0.0.3.... 00%

.50 300...... ..o .56.» .000... Omv.
.000... 03. 3:00?

0:00... ..o .56.» .000... 95.
0:00... ..o .560» :00... 00030.3. .0.
00a... ..0 .520 0.... 9.0500.
3.040%

va—

._00._=000.= 002.0 00003.... 30.0500. .8 5.0.03. 5.38m .00... .000 0.00.500... .60 ..o .00...0 0..... ”a... 030...

93
and increase density 4-5 weeks prior to a high traffic situation could be beneficial in

terms of season long management strategies. Root biomasses are presented in Table 3.9.

Verdure

Verdure refers to the layer of aboveground, green, living tissue following mowing
(Turgeon, 1991). The final mowing was conducted 15 Oct. Table 3.10 shows the means
of the two plugs in terms of plants per 10 cm’. Poa supina along with the remaining sod
treatments grown on plastic had significantly higher plant counts per unit area than the
washed or mineral grown sod treatments. This information, again emphasizes the
importance of a knitted rootmass in maintaining turf density and resilience to traffic. No

verdure differences were noted for the PGR factor.

Conclusions

The Kentucky bluegrass (Poa prarensis) blend/perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne)
blend sod treatment grown on plastic performed significantly better under trafficked
conditions compared to other treatments. In terms of color, the aforementioned sod
treatment, along with the KBG grown on mineral soil, received the highest ratings with
Poa supina rated the lowest. The plastic grown sod treatments had significantly higher
densities while the washed KBG blend was lowest. The higher densities recorded for the
plastic grown sod treatments was the result of the greater root knitting they had in
comparison to washed and mineral grown Kentucky bluegrass sod treatments. Again,

the quality ratings were highest throughout the study for the Kentucky bluegrass/perennial

94

Table 3.9: The effect of sod treatments and plant growth regulator on trafficked turfgrass
root biomass, 15 Dec. 1994.

___§am2|9_12ezth__

W Shim all- 5012211:
KBG/PRG mix grown on plastic 1.2 1.1

P. Ryegrass blend grown on plastic 2.1 1.0
KBG blend grown on plastic 1.8 0.8
Washed KBG blend 2.3 1.0
KBG blend grown on mineral soil 1.5 1.2
Poa sapina grown on plastic 1.1 0.9
LSD at 0.05 level NS NS
mm

Trinexapac-ethyl 1.6 1.0
No trinexapac-ethyl 1 . 8 1.0
*=Significant at 0.05 level NS NS
Games simulated via Brinkman Simulator 24 24

NS=Not significant

Table 3.10: The effect of sod treatments and plant growth regulator on trafficked turfgrass
verdure, 25 Oct. 1994.

Plant Verdure

 

Sod reatment plants/10 cm2
KBG/PRG mix grown on plastic 18.8
P. Ryegrass blend grown on plastic 18.2
KBG blend grown on plastic 17.4
Washed KBG blend 11.1
KBG blend grown on mineral soil 10.2
Poa supina grown on plastic 20.2
LSD at 0.05 level 4.1

PGR Treatment

Trinexapac-ethyl 15.6
No trinexapac-ethyl 16.3
*=Significant at 0.05 level NS
Games simulated via Brinkman Simulator 22

NS=Not significant

95
ryegrass mixture grown initially on plastic. Poa supina had lower quality ratings within

the first two months of the study but maintained adequate quality ratings as traffic
simulation continued. This may be due to its better response to cooler temperatures
(Lundell, 1994) and stoloniferous growth habit as compared to the other treatments. The
washed KBG blend had the lowest quality ratings in months of October and November.
Shear vane measures further promoted the KBG/Rye mix treatment followed by the KBG
blend grown on plastic. The application of a plant growth regulator (PGR) such as
trinexapac-ethyl shortly after sodding takes place can further maximize the overall
surface, particularly in terms of color and quality. Sod densities were lower initially on
treatments where PGR was applied but received significantly higher densities for the
remainder of the study. Many benefits were observed in applying a PGR to sod.
Although no root biomass differences were noted, lateral rather than vertical growth was
enhanced. Trinexapac-ethyl, when applied, increased turf densities through making the
turfgrass grow laterally which promoted better wear tolerance. Overlooking the short-
term phytotoxic effect of trinexapac-ethyl, which was very minimal for Kentucky
bluegrass and perennial ryegrass sod treatments, the product does promote better quality

turf and reduced mowing during the establishment stage.

9 6
Literature Cited

Beard, J .B. 1973. Turfgrass:Science and Culture. Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ.
524pp.

Brown, W.G., and D.B. White. 1974. Influence of two new growth regulating chemicals
on ’Baron' Kentucky bluegrass. Proc. of the Inter. Turfgrass Res. Conf. 2:467-
473.

Canaway, P.M. 1990. A comparison of different methods of establishment using seed
and sod on the cover and playing quality of turf for football. J. Sports Turf
Res. Inst. 66:28-41.

Canaway, P.M., and S.W. Baker. 1993. Soil and turf properties governing play. J.
Sports Turf Res. Inst. 7:192-200.

Casimaty, B.G., J . Neylan, and J .B. Beard. 1993. Effects of Soil Removal by Pest-
Harvest Hydraulic Washing on Sod Transplant Rooting of a Kentucky Bluegrass-
Perennial Ryegrass Polystand and a Creeping Bentgrass Monostand.

Inter. Turfgrass Soc. Res. J. 7:850—856.

Cockerham, S.T. 1989. An insider looks at sand-filled basin sports fields. Grounds
Maintenance. 24(5):37—92.

Davis, W.B., and CA. Pratt. 1982. Sod rooting. Cal. Turfgrass Culture. 32 (1):
3-5.

Decker, H.F. 1989. Growing sod over plastic: turf in five weeks. Landscape Mgmt.
28(7):68-70.

Elam, P.M. 1993. Plant growth regulators and their effect on rooting in newly sodded
turf. Cal. Turfgrass Culture. 43(1-4):3-6.

Gaussoin, R.E. 1994. Choosing traffic tolerant turfgrass varieties. SportsTurf. 7(10):
25-37

Hall, J.R., III, and S.W. Bingham. 1993. Impact of growth regulators on Kentucky
bluegrass sod management and installation parameters. Inter. Turfgrass
Soc. Res. J. 71701-707.

Harlow, S. 1994. Plant growth regulators come into their own. Turf Central. 5(1):26—27.

Johnson, BJ. 1993. Frequency of plant growth regulator and mowing treatments: effects
on injury and suppression of centipedegrass. Agron. J. 85(2):276-280.

97

Keck, L., and A. Walch. 1977. Natfirliches vorkommen von Poa supina auf
sportplatzrasen tirol. RasenOTurf-Gazon. 2:44-47.

King, J.W., and J.B. Beard. 1969. Measuring mating of sodded turfs. Agron. J.
6(4):497-498

Lundell, D. 1994. A new turfgrass species, Poa supina. Grounds Maintenance.
29(6):26-27.

Mrock, K. 1995. Growing grass when it doesn’t want to. landscape Management.
34(1):20.

Rogers, J .N., 111. and D.V. Waddington. 1989. The effect of cutting height and
verdure on impact absorption and traction characteristics in tall fescue turf. J.
Sports Turf Res. Inst. 65:80-90.

Ross S. J ., A.R. Ennos, and A. H. Fitter. 1991. Turf strength and root characteristics
of ten turfgrass cultivars. Ann. of Appl. Biol. 118(2):433-443.

Smucker, A.J., S.L. McBumey, and A.K. Srivastava. 1982. Quantitative separation
of roots from compacted soil profiles by the hydropneumatic elutriation system.
Agron. J. 74:500-503.

Turgeon, AJ. 1991. Turfgrass Management, Third Edition. Prentice-Hall, Englewood
Cliffs, NJ. 390pp.

Watschke, T.L. and J.M. DiPaola. 1995. Plant growth regulators. Golf Course
Management. 63(3):59-62.

Yan, J.Y., R.E. Schmidt, and D.C. Martens. 1993. The influence of plant growth
regulators on turf quality and nutrient efficiency. Inter. Turfgrass Soc.
Res. J. 7:722-728.

APPENDIX

98

”6N
:— .—
m2
m2
m2
0....
..:.—
m2
m2
.0...

m2

Ema. .

ad
no...
0.
m2
m2
*5
and
m2
m2
9}

m2

n00.83—

v.9.
nnd
m2
m2
m2
.0...

...o

N...
3.6
m2

m2
.0...
owd
*
m2
..:.

m2

3ka
0.00

.26. 00.0 a 280.00.. .ozu0z
0.308002 .2000. .00 05 00.0 .0 0.3.0.000 I...

 

 

..0 0.0 .0. >0
00.0 00.0 5:0
02 . 0X0x<
0. m2 U X m
.0... m2 D X <
02 : 0 .0220...
00.0 00.0 5:0
02 02 0 x <
02 02 0 08.53.. .00...
a... an < 60502 0.0.0.".
02 02 803...;
I00.0:0 [0000.2 800...... .0 8500

.. 00.0000 .028 000030... 08.050075:

.000 000.0500. 0o 50.5000. 000.500.. :00 .00.... 69:00. .005..0....0.00 .o 0.00....0 .5050»... 3.00:0:05 2. 0.0.0...

99

.20. 00.0 a 300.00.. .02 "02

030.8000. .226. .00 05 00.0 a 500.000 2.....

 

—.ON 6.? v6 ad we
”ma Nd. n.w «Mn: N.”—
mZ m2 m2 m2 m2
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
m2 m2 0.... m2 0..
{a an an 00 00
.oN .m o. No no.
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
.0 a... ..:. _.:.. 0...
.0... m2 m2 m2 m2
chQS no.0; maRNR mQNCm NOENB.
0.00

.00. >0

.0.—um

u x m x <

u x m

U x <

0 ..::.....

.Gtm

m x <

m .5253... 00...”.
< .0050: .0200
00:00:03.

 

00:0.00> ..o 000aom

.. 00.0000 33.0000 000030... 30.05.0075:
.000 000.0500. 0o 5000.000. 000....00. :00 .00.... 62:00. 50.000.30.00 .o 0.00....0 E0050»... 0:050:05 ”m 0.0.0...

100

mm.
0.0
m2
m2
m2

.0...
0.6
m2
m2

0....

m2

«flu—W

néu
m6
m2
m2
m2

. .N
wZ
m2

l!

m2

em. 3 w

bd—
m2
m2
m2
m2
0..
m2
m2
.0...

m2

vo. 3 v

m.mn
n.—
m2
m2
m2
{i
0...
m2
0.
a
a.

$094

o.NN
Nd
m2
m2
m2
.0...
m.N
m2
m2
.0...
a...

g

....
06
m2
m2
m2

0...
Nd
m2
m2

9*

m2

v.—
96
m2
m2
m2

0...
wd
.0
m2

..:.

m2

5:
v.0
m2
m2

0...
a...
v...
m2
m2

9*

m2

 

onR 3.23 3.23

.83. 82.. 8 E... 00...... 0.05.. ..:. 3.8 8 08.0 a. 00.000.00.000. 020.. .0. 000.3. ”0.002

.20. 00.0 .0 .5050... .ozu0z
0.000808. .22.... .00 ..:. 00.0 .0 .52.:000 i...

ad
nd
m2
m2
m2

f}
w.
m2
m2

{0

m2

NoENS.

 

0.00

30. >0

.0.—0m

O x m x <

O x m

U x <

0 0.0.50

.0.—0m

m x <

0 055.8; 30.0
< .0050: .0200
00:00:00”.

 

0o:0..00> .o 000=om

.. 00.0000 £5.00... 000080... 02.050075:
.000 000.0500. 0o .005000. 0005000.. .000 .00.... 69:0... 50.05.5500 ..o 0.00:0 5005030 2.00:0:05 "O 0.00...

101

adv

m2
m2
m2
m2
3m
m2
m2
m2

25. 0..

.3... no... .. .5355... 52 umz

9.03.8.8. 0.26. a... ..s. 8... .. 505......“ 2.....

w.mn
m._n
m2
m2
m2

0....

m2
m2
m2
m2

 

n.3— .>oZ

2.... m..

.5 >0

..Ohum

U x m x <

D x m

U x <

u ..::.....

achum

m x <

m Java—38.5. 53?—
< .3502 .ssmm
5:00.10”—

 

=c_.0t0> ..o 00.2%

._ 0330 613—82859. 93 0391091 :8 .5 309.3... 085:0. 93 £09.. 6920:. 2.09.3538 ..o 0.00:0 9.85:3... »__00_.m_.8m ”a 050k

102

_ 65
m2
m2
m2
ml

86
m2
m2

0....

m2

EQNHTOH

W:
m2
m2
m2
m2
m2
m2
m2
m2

ESSA.

052,—..02

«.3
m2
m2
m2
m2

mod
m2
m2

0.

mZ

60.. _ 4.
5300 0350a

 

80. .2532

.3... no... .. .52....00 .ozumz
0.03.8.8. 0.26. 8... ..s. 8... .. .52....00 t...

m.nv
m2
m2
m2
m2
m2
m2
m2
m2

505-6

20...;

.0.>u

.otm

U x m x <

U x m

U x <

0 ........o...

.95

m x <

m ..:0E.w0.._. .0..."—
< 69:02 £0.0m
5:00.101

:o_.0....0>_ .c 02.9%.

._ 00.30 60059.. .8. 008M008 30—058. .8 9.09.000. BEES. 9.0 £09.. 69:08 .c0E;0_30.00 ..o 0.00:0 2:05:30 3.09.935 "m 030,—.

103

.26. 0o... ._. 38.0.00... 82.02
0.02.8002 0.9.... .0... 0.... 0..... .0 2303.0 2.....

 

0.0 0.8 .5 >0
0.00 0.2 .80.".
02 02 u x m x <
02 02 0 x 0
02 t. 0 x <
t. t. 0 ..::.....
00. EN 5:0
m2 ... m X <
02 02 0 085.8; .0....
..:. t < .8502 .0200
02 . 8.5....3.
Mann gala 29.0.0.5 ..o 000:8
0....0. ma...

._ 00.005 .020.» 9.19.0 0000M..0... 600.058.-..0: :0 2009.000.
000.500.. .900 .009... 69:09 3095.30.00 ..o 0.00....0 .50...=m.0 ~3.00:0...3m u... 030...

104

.25. 0..... .. .3050... .azu0z 0.258%... «.25. 8... .0... 0o... .. 2.5.03.0 .5...

 

 

ON a o- v. m e. an n. 6N hm MN 2.
I. -8 2 .O .900... 890 ova 9m .9000 66 -2. -.: 3-
m2 m2 m2 wz m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
m2 m2 0. m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 wZ m2
m2 m2 ..i 0.... 0... m2 m2 .3. wZ m2 m2 m2
m2 m2 m2 0.... .0... ... 0.... .0... .0... m2 m2 m2
g no.5." no. 0..—and 00.x». Gun 9% 5.00.. -3 .3 .3 88m
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 wZ m2 m2
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
m2 .0... m2 .2. .0... ..:. m2 ..i ... m2 m2 .0
0. .1. m2 m2 m2 m2 ..:. m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
4.4 w a «U: «.2 0.2 a M m 0M fl .4
030.052
mm a. Z : o. n. 9. e. on on n. 3
m2 .95.... ..n .9060 -: Nm --- .950 n.w c.
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 wz m2
m2 m2 m2 m7. m2 m2 m2 wZ m2 m2 wZ m2
m2 m2 .1. .1. m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
m2 .3. m2 m2 m2 ..:.. m2 .0... ..:. mZ ..:. m2
--- .9006 ..o --- --- O... ..N .93.. --- .m ---
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 0. m2 0 m2 m2 m2 m2
m2 m2 0. m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
m2 .0... ..i m2 m2 .0... ... ..:.. m2 m2 0.... m2
m2 m2 m2 wZ mZ ..:.. ..:. m2 m2 m2 wZ m2
0.2 «— mfl & NH .cI—d «G. u. m mu. WM .d
0.5.54.2

.5 >0

nor—m

U x m x <

U x m

U x <

0 0.....50

09:”

m x <

a ..:05800. 00...".
< 62:02 ..:..0m
5:00.10”.

5.3.0.0.. N .3 0050.0.

000. 0.....

.&.>u

0°C.".—
uxmx<

u x 0

u x <

0 ..::.....

.0.—hm

m x <

m Jeep—0.8:. .005...—
< 62.5: .003
8:00.10...

co..0.00> ..0 000.5%

32 0.5..

._ 002—30 .0.0>0. 30.0.90 0:00.. .5... :0 2009.000. 000....00. .900 .09.... 69:9: 5055.30.00 ..o 0.00....0 3005.030 .0.—00:0..3m .0 030...

105

 

 

00. we. :0. :0. 00

s. .z :- -: we

02 02 02 02 02

m2 m2 m2 m2 .1.

02 02 02 02 02

02 02 02 02 02

0. 0.0 we 00 no

02 02 02 02 02

.0... 0. m2 m2 0

.0... ..:.. 0.... 0.... ..::

..i m2 .. m2 ..

”mafia. manna. mmaua mmmda mmafla

OED
000 0.0 90. we. 00. 60.
02 02 02 02 02 02
02 02 02 02 02 02
02 02 02 02 02 02
02 02 02 02 02 02
n. .00 00. 0.. N0 00
02 02 02 02 . 02
0.... m2 ... m2 m2 _._
{i .9... i... .9... ..:. 0....
.. 02 . . 02 02
«mama mmqaq. .mmmm. mmama “mafia madam
030

..25. 00... .. 58.0.00... 5202 0.2.808. 0.25. .0... ..:. 0..... .. 58.0.9.0 t...

.5 >U

000...".

U x m x <

U x m

U x <
0.9::50

0000.".—

m X <

m 6.09.000... 00...”.
< 69:02 .n80w
99.00.90”.

 

3.0.; ..o 0098
05.09.00.252

3: >U

0300m—

U x m x <

U x m

U x <
0.9::50

actm

m x <

m ..:oeaflouh. 02:".
< 69:02 .030m
90:00.90.—

35422.10
02.20.80.

._ 00.30 £003.09 009.0 000.59.. no 909.000. 000....00. .900 009.. 69:09 9095.20.00 ..o 0.00....0 900:9».0 ~2.00:0..fim u: 050...

106

 

.26. 36 3.50.0195 .02 "m2

..:..8002 0.25. .0... 0.... 0o... .. 5.0.9.0 2......

 

 

.5 >0

0000.".

m X m

m .9093... «0..
009m

m .9098... 60m
99.00.90”.

 

:....0...0> ..o 00.2%

63.

....... >U

090.0.

a. x m

n. 909.000... «0..
0000M.

m 6.09.00... 9%
99.00.90:

 

:c..0.00> ..o 000:8

n.N «6 9n 9N sun 9m 9n 9. a. n. 9.. ... w...
h. .6 ad— n.n— nod 36 n6. 8.0 had mm.N Na. 5 o. .. ..m...
«2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 .. 0 m2 wZ mZ ..:.
0.... ..i o... .0... ...... ... ..i ..i 0... .3 m2 0... ..:.
.8 .33 a...“ «.3. c. . n ndm ..: --- 3- N6 --- Nd N...
m2 .0 .0... ... .0... .0... m2 m2 wZ ..:.. m7. ..:. ..:.
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2
a a»: mum: al.... al.... to. on... 0..... 0:... ma. 0...... 0...... a...
0.|0.o
.n 0053.0 33.0906 009mu0... 68.059799. 9... 6030500. .5 090.230 53.00» .90... 9.0 909.00.. 9.0 .c 0.90:0 90055.0 3.00:0..05 ._. 0.0.0..
fin 6... 9m nd ed as w.m v... N... A...“ ..n o...
v. .o 86 m. .o 8.: and mm... b. .c o. .o no... 3.... mod we...

m2 .0... ... .1. m2 m2 m7. m2 m2 ..:. .._ ..:.

..i i... 0.... .0... .0... 0.... ..:. ..:. 2.. ..i ..:. 2.
ad N6 N6 :6 --- 0... m6 5... ..0 06 N... ..o
m2 ..3. .0... .0... m2 ..:. ..:. ..:. 0... 2.. ..:. ..:.
m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 m2 0.... 0.... m2 m2

mu: Ian: 0 3|... «:9. II..... clad 0d... a... mm mm olmw. al....
ofln

92..

.n 0033.0 .098 000.59.. 60.0.0.9.-09. 9.0 9.on00. :0 090.030 5300» .90... 9... 909.000. 900 ..o 0.00:0 ...00......w.0 ....00..0..0.m n. 0.9....

107

.3... no... ... .52....90 .ozumz
4203.09.00. 0.30. .o... 9.0 no... .0 .c00....=w.m 2......

m6 N6 m6 Q6 ..9 N6 06 ...v 9n m.n v6 ..v wé A.K. >0
8.: 86 .N... had mod N. .c a. .o 2... bed cod 8.0 00... o. .o .otm.
m2 ... ... ...... .. m2 m2 wZ .. m2 m2 ...... ...... n. X m
...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... .... ...... ...... ...... ...... .. m2 0. Java—.30.... Mon.
n96 .06 am... on... end end had mm... ON... and 00.0 v. .o v. .o .o..m.
0. o .. m2 .0 ...... mZ ...... ..:. ...... ...... ...... ..:. w ..:eE.0o..—. ..cm

.. 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 . 508......

«.04 00..— ..AI.... |~.l. .... Ilsa. lit... Iona II. 3 ..: 8.00.5... 8:50
2.5 3...

 

 

| .

~o
:
as
o
\
a
N
\
o
\o
N
\
co
co

 

.n 002.2... £50.... 000.35. 13050..-.5: 9.0 18.05.... :0 8.0.30... 538» ...0... 9.0 905.00.. 9.0 ..o 0.8...» .5850»... 2.09.0..05 “v. 030...

108

.2... 8... .. 0.80.000 .ozumz

0.20808. 0.2.... ...... ...... no... .. 0.80.000 ......

 

0.0 o... 0.0 0... 0... 0... 0.. 0.0 0.0
02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02
02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02
n. .0 .0... 00.. 0.... 00.. 00.0 0..... 0.... 0...
{G 05 0:0 0:0 ...... ...... ...... ...... ......
.. 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02
0.... Isl: c an... Ilsa. It. llama In... 0.3 0.0
.00

.0. >0
.otm

Luna

0. .9253... Mon.

.25

m 5.0.500... 9.0

09.00.33.

09.0... 0. >...o .0. 0.300.

90...

.n .8050 605000... .00.... 0080...... v8.0.0.0: ..o 3.0.000. 530.0 ...0... 9.0 0.00502. 9.0 .o 0.00:0 E00500... 2.00:0..80 .2 030...

 

v.m 0.9 .... 0.0 0.m We ..m ..m N... ...0
0nd .n.~ mod .....N o. .N 00..” VNN SEN «Wm .6...
02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 ... 02
02 ... 02 02 02 ... 02 02 02 02
.n.0 Vhd .... No.0 00.0 .m.0 ad. on... and mé.
... ...... mZ ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...
m7. m2 02 02 02 02 07. 02 02 02
.34 a .34.... 39. 3 add 0|qu SIR a mum

0.00

 

.0.>0
.o..m

..Xm

.. .555; 00..

.0..m

m 5.05.3... 95

00:00:00..

 

09.0.25 .0 00.000

9&—

.n 00.050 62:08... .0040 0020...... 00.0.0.0..-000 :0 3.0.000. 530.0 ...0... 9.0 090500.. .50 ..o 0.00....0 9.005006 ....00..0..0.m .... 030...

109

Table N: Statistically significant effects of sod treatments and plant growth regulator on
trafficked turfgrass root biomass, chapter 3.

 

15 Dec. 1994
Sample Depth
592mm _0-5cm 5-10¢m_
Replication NS NS
Sod Treatment, 8 NS NS
Error - --
PGR Treatment, P NS NS
S X P NS NS
Error -- --
CV (96) 66.5 61.5

Table 0: Statistically significant effects of sod treatments and plant growth regulator on
trafficked turfgrass verdure, chapter 3.

25 Oct. 1994

Plant Verdure
Source of Variation plants/10 crn2
Replication NS
Sod Treatment, S "
Error 10.0
PGR Treatment. P NS
S X P NS
Error -
CV (5) 7.5

‘3" Significant at 0.05 and 0.01 levels. respectively.
NS=Not Significant at 0.05 level.