LAWN 
INSTITUTE 

Harvests

Volume 29 Number 4 

January 1983

CONTENTS

GENERAL TOPICS SECTION

PAGE

I - THE HARVEST MIX
II - DIRECTOR'S DIALOGUE
III - LAWN INSTITUTE PITCH
IV - ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY REPORTS
V-  P.O. BOX 108
VI - READERS' FORUM
VII - QUARTERLY PROGRAM REPORT
VIII - ITINERARY
IX —LOOKING AHEAD

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TECHNICAL TOPICS SECTION

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X - THRESHING THE JOURHALS
XI - SCORE CARD
XII - RESEARCH SYNTHESIS

9

NEXT ISSUE
NEXT ISSUE

THE 
HARVEST MIX

(AN INTRODUCTION TO THIS ISSUE 

OF HARVESTS)

The last issue of Harvests represented a 
first in that it featured a new format and 
was the inaugural issue from our Pleasant 
Hill office. This Volume 29, Number 4 
issue also presents a new look - tabloid 
rather than mimeograph. Also, it is now 
being distributed to an expanded mailing 
list.
Our goal continues to be that of presenting 
information concerning turfgrass cultivars 
and lawn seed as related to all aspects of 
the fine turf industry.
We are pleased with this current step in 
the development of an improved communications 
process, and dedicate this issue to a more 
complete understanding of current turfgrass 
research and practice.

This issue of Harvests will not include:
-Director's Dialogue (Editorial on Lawn 
Institute and related topics)
-Readers Forum ( News and views)
-Score Card (Presentation of research data 
and conclusions from turfgrass field days 
and conferences)
-Research Synthesis (Analysis of research 
reports and interpretation of results)

Look for these in Volume 30, Number 1 
(April 1983)
Presentations from Agronomy's Diamond Jub­
ilee meeting in Anaheim, California, Novem­
ber 28- December 3,1982 and from the Oregon 
Seed Growers League meeting in Portland, 
Oregon, December 6 and 7 are featured in 
this issue.

Lawn Institute Pitch

(CURRENT OUTREACH BY WAY OF  
THE WRITTEN AND SPOKEN WORD)

LAWN SEED FIT FOR A GLOBAL MARKET

For more than twenty five years I have serv­
ed on the academic faculties of four land 
grant universities in three different regions 
of the country. This opportunity to "sell" 
young people specialized training in turf­
grass management in an educational environ­
ment has been most satisfying. In addition, 
through Extension Education, professional 
grounds managers and home gardeners alike 
have been exposed to a "selling" of concepts 
and practices that produce the best in 
quality turfgrass cover. In these instances, 
the "selling" didn't involve an exchange of 
monitary funds. It did involve an art of 
letting other people have my way- the bene­
fit of up-to-date turfgrass technology.

Perhaps it seems obvious that current tech­
nology should need little "selling". Not so. 
New ideas and practices resulting from turf­
grass research require "selling" in much the 
same way that lawn seed must be sold. What 
is there about lawn seed in 1983 that gives 
us confidence that it is fit for a global 
market ? How should we approach this matter 
of selling - again, the art of letting the 
consumer have your seed ?
There are three areas of focus in consider­
ing this matter. First, it is appropriate 
to look at our product - high quality seed. 
Is it worthy of the claims we make for it ? 
Second, we must know the market. What are 
the current market characteristics ? What 
past and present economic conditions have 
determined these characteristics ? What 
are consumers telling us of their needs for 
lawn seed ? And third, continuing public 
education is a prerequisite to consumer 
satisfaction in lawn and sports turf use.
How may we be able to best meet public needs 
for information required in making sound 
lawn and gardening decisions ?

Lawn Institute Pitch 

CONTINUED

QUALITY SEED

In 1982 the American Society of Agronomy 
celebrated its 75th anniversary and in 1983 
the American Seed Trade Association will 
have achieved 100 years of service. Thus, 
the development of quality lawn seed and 
the formulation of practices that maximize 
the genetic potential of the seed have been 
topics of continuing research and education 
for many years.
Within the past ten to fifteen years, as 
high technology has become a reality in this 
country, significant breakthroughs have 
occurred in use of germplasm, in understand­
ing the genetics of turfgrass species and 
in the development of new varieties. The 
result has been the release of new, improved 
cultivars. Field plot evaluations from all 
over the world prove that these new grasses 
are superior to older types in a broad range 
of growth characteristics.
Thus, high quality is a reality and yet the 
ultimate is still not yet in sight. More 
improved cultivars are in the making. In 
anticipation of this, the American Seed 
Trade Association has recommended policies 
for release of germplasm, varieties and 
related technology from public institutions. 
These recommendations are designed to help 
maintain the close cooperation between public 
and private plant breeders that has been so 
important in making past accomplishments.
Seed laboratories are of critical importance 
in the maintenance of high quality seed 
products. In addition to purity and germin­
ation tests, information on seed quality is 
available from weight measurements, X-Ray 
studies, viability tests, bioassay, tetra­
zolium tests, chromosome studies, variety 
determinations and moisture measurements. 
Quality control is, in fact, a reality for 
the lawn seed industry.
Without presenting more detail, we are con­
fident that the seed grown for lawn use is 
a high quality product. Seed growers see 
to that. Thus, it is apparent that the 
formulation of seed mixtures becomes the 
limiting factor in utilization for a wide 
range of intended purposes. A nation wide 
sampling of lawn seed mixtures available 
indicates that up to half are not well suited 
for use in the region sold. Many of these 
mixtures are relatively inexpensive and so 
meet a valid market demand. They are not 
likely to generate continuing consumer sat­
isfaction; however, they often satisfy a 
need for quick, though temporary, cover.
Our overall marketing system is designed to 
supply products where sales potential exists. 
This is a sound system. However, public 
education is required to emphasize the fact 
that the better buy is the mixture contain­
ing a quality blend of improved grass types.

We still hear the saying that originated 
back in 1938 when Elmer Wheeler wrote the 
booklet Sentences That Sell, that is,
"Sell the sizzle, not the steak". Richard 
J Ferris, Chairman and Chief Executive Offi­
cer for United Airlines has an editorial 
entitled "You Can't Sell The Sizzle Without 
the Steak" in the December 1982 issue of 
United. He places sound emphasis on the fact 
that it takes quality to bring about repeat­
ed sales. Just as it takes a quality steak 
to sell, it takes quality lawn seed mixtures 
to bring consumer satisfaction regardless 
of the amount of "sizzle".

A BASIS FOR MARKETING

Yesterday, today was the future; today, 
tomorrow is our future. The future, as 
near to us as tomorrow, or as distant as 
next year, is affected most by two factors 
over which we have some, though limited, 
measure of control. The first is concerned 
with the environment and relationships be­
tween environment and energy. The second 
is based on public values that determine 
standard of living, life style and quality 
of life. Marketing of lawn seed is accom­
plished within limits set by these factors 
since they vary to some degree from place 
to place around the world, the concept of 
a global market presents opportunities in 
one place that may not be feasible in an­
other.

ENVIRONMENT/ENERGY RELATIONSHIPS

The topic "Energy Shortages and Changing 
Life Styles" has been discussed in recent 
years, perhaps most completely by Clark C 
Abt of Abt Associates, Boston, Massachusetts. 
Energy policy affects the common behavior 
of most people with respect to activities 
in which they spend most of their time. It 
influences the places at which they live, 
work, study and find recreation and enter­
tainment. Further, energy policy must take 
into consideration the possible impacts on 
life styles, because conditions that change 
people's quality of life are likely to be 
politically sensitive.
We live at a time of energy transition from 
familiar, well accepted sources to new un­
familiar and even perhaps hazardous sources. 
Regardless of the outcome of this transition, 
life styles are changing and will continue 
to change. These changes may tend to place 
higher priority on the neighborhood, and on 
local environmental quality as we become at 
least somewhat less mobile. In this instance, 
lawn grasses have a high priority task to 
perform.

Lawn Institute Pitch 

CONTINUED

PUBLIC VALUES

Public values are simply the composite of 
individual personal values so focused that 
one perspective becomes dominant over the 
others. They vary with location and are 
determined by the attitudes of people liv­
ing and working together. Dr Morris Massey 
of The University of Colorado has produced 
an excellent video tape entitled "What We 
Are Is Where We Were When". Essentially, 
what I am as a person, what I value most, 
depends on where I was and on the condition 
of those times when I was most influenced 
in the formation of values. Circumstances 
which influence values are well understood; 
the influence of family, friends, church, 
schools, media, music, geography, income 
are among those most important. Values that 
include respect for the environment, respon­
sibility for individual action and appreci­
ation of natural systems are likely to result 
in projects involving landscape horticulture. 
Mere survival is not likely to be satisfac­
tory for these persons.
Ever since 1967 when Dennis Gabor's book 
entitled "Inventing the Future" received 
major attention, we have been more positive 
in our approach to planning for the future. 
Planning at the corporate level, planning 
at local, state and national levels all 
have emphasized an analysis of past condi­
tions, current aspirations and projected 
values and needs for the development and 
maintenance of pleasing habitats. With the 
advanced degree of technical competence 
available to us, inventing the future is 
within our grasp. Articles like "Ecotopia 
Now" by Sim Vander Ryn, San Francisco archi­
tect in New Age Magazine are indicative of 
the creativity that is part of the process. 
And if Herman Kahn, Director of the Hudson 
Institute in New York is correct in his 
new book, The Coming Boom; Economic, Poli­
tical and Social, the United States may 
be on the verge of a period of tremendous 
revitalization that could begin as early 
as this year, and last twenty or more years 
into the future. The lawn seed and fine 
turf industry are ready now for involvement 
in these types of markets.

MARKET DETERMINANTS

In addition to environment/energy relation­
ships and public values influences, the lawn 
seed market is determined,to some degree at 
least, by three trends that have developed 
slowly during the past decade. These include: 
first, the concept that plants enhance both 
functional and esthetic environments; second, 
the increasing realization that human/plant 
proximities produce psychological and heal­
ing benefits for the gardener; and third, 
the prospect for improved understanding of 
the politics of landscape horticulture.

PLANTS TO ENHANCE THE ENVIRONMENT

Fifteen years ago, a joint task force of the 
U S Department of Agriculture and the State 
Universities and Land Grant Colleges describ­
ed "A National Program of Research for Plants 
to Enhance Man’s Environment". This report 
served to emphasize the interrelatedness of 
herbaceous flowers, shrubs, trees and turf­
grasses in the residential landscape. The 
concept of ornamental horticulture as a 
blend of the arts and sciences created new 
excitement in the use of landscape plants.
Plant culture is a learning experience based 
on principles of plant and soil science, one 
that is challenging, enjoyable and satisfy­
ing. Use of plants involves architecture, 
design and artistic concepts. The gardener 
is provided with a unique opportunity for 
creative expression, regardless of the size 
of the property involved. Variations in 
color, texture of foliage and size of plant 
material help focus attention within the 
garden and, in addition, may form linkages 
with neighboring landscapes. Lawn grasses 
provide a basal plane ground cover that 
can be creatively designed with zones of 
fine or coarse textured types and even used 
to create walks and boarders among other 
broadleaved ground covers. Integrated use 
of all types of plant materials opens up new 
opportunities for creation of lawns and out 
of doors living space. In so doing, it 
stimulates both the scientific curiosity that 
is within us and the latent artistic genius 
that makes each of us a special person.

Lawn Institute Pitch 

CONTINUED

HUMAN PLANT PROXIMITIES

Twenty years ago, Professor Patrick Hors- 
brough of The University of Notre Dame 
presented a paper at the winter conference 
of the Indiana Association of Nurserymen 
entitled "Human-Plant Proximities: A Psycho­
logical Imperative". Published in Indiana 
Nursery News, Volume 33, Number 4, this 
article brought into focus for many of us 
what we perceived to be an indescribable 
benefit from close association with living 
vegetation.
The old notion that the purpose of landscape 
plants was simply a matter of beautification 
never has been really very satisfying. Beau­
ty is in the eye of the beholder and what 
may be attractive for one, may not be so 
for another. Thus, the time was right for 
a different approach. Professor Horsbrough 
described how the simplest physical factor 
of ’Human-Plant Proximities' was related to 
the most complex emotional consequences of 
human-plant relationships. He suggested that 
a psychological imperative existed that 
required all of us to work towards environ­
mental enhancement as the artificiality 
of our surroundings becomes ever more oppres­
sive. When we realize that the alternative 
to human-plant proximities is the desert, 
and that this may be viewed as either or 
both African desert or any inner city desert, 
it becomes more obvious that in the healthy 
state of selected vegetation lies the evi­
dence that any place is fit for human habi­
tation.
In 1974, Professor Albert E Griffiths of 
The University of Rhode Island traveled 
19,000 miles through the United States and 
Canada on sabbatical leave. His mission 
was an evaluation of the art and science of 
Horticultural Therapy. He interviewed over 
100 professional therapists, doctors, sociol­
ogists, hospital administrators, teachers 
and clients. He inspected programs at over 
40 universities, training schools, correc­
tional institutions, half-way houses, shel­
tered workshops, state hospitals and VA 
hospitals. His report documented what the 
League of Federated Garden Clubs have known 
for many years; i.e., the therapeutic value 
of horticultural plants is real.
Perhaps something about the fragile and 
dependent nature of ornamental plants makes 
the patient desire to protect and nurture 
them and in so doing, gain strength and 
satisfaction.
What's in it for us in the lawn seed indus­
try ? We are an integral part of the human­
plant proximity/therapy process. Lawns, 
as essential parts of the garden environment, 
generate power for better living.

A

POLITICS OF LANDSCAPE HORTICULTURE

11 ' ' ' '

As we are more and more getting away from 
the old concept of ornamental plants as 
luxury items, we realize the potential for 
building political (public) support for 
landscape projects on a wide scale. Now, 
it is certain that there is a recognized 
hierarchy of human needs, and that not all 
people in any given region of the country 
or part of the world have made adequate 
advances in meeting the most critical needs 
for food, shelter, clothing, and security, 
among others. Nevertheless, this age we 
live iin is certainly more advanced world­
wide than any that preceeded it. Our stan­
dard of living and quality of life are high­
er than ever before.
By placing emphasis on the value of the land 
scape in real estate enhancement, and as 
a significant community asset in creating 
green belts, encouraging population disper­
sion, promoting wildlife conservation, 
controlling soil, water, air and visual 
pollution, and providing grounds for recre­
ation, public support for plants to enhance 
the environment is a political reality.
From field burning in the seed production 
regions of the country, to water conserva­
tion practices for lawns in drought prone 
regions, to new emphasis on low maintenance 
lawn care practices, public awareness of 
issues and solutions continues to be an 
urgent political need.

CONTINUING PUBLIC EDUCATION

The means by which we look for information 
are changing. The national newspaper USA 
Today is based on satellite technology and 
television format. It is perhaps a last 
chance for readers who rely on newsprint 
of major city papers. In fact, it appears 
that we have so taken to TV that this means 
may well be our major source of information 
used in decision making. Cable TV and the 
prospect of sets that are programmed for 
retrieval of computer and video tapes on a 
wide range of topics,from regional landscape 
recommendations to installation and care of 
lawns, may well be close at hand. Computer 
programming for turf maintenance is already 
with us. The software is available for use 
in Cooperative Extension Education and also 
in garden center retail outlets. Now is 
the time for the development of educational 
strategies for lawn seed fit for a global 
market.
The quality product is available; market 
characteristics are sound; consumers are 
increasingly sensitive to the importance of 
plant use in the landscape. The close of 
the twentieth century is rapidly becoming 
known as an era of advanced communications. 
The stage is set and the curtain is going 
up. Our performance as a landscape industry 
is awaited by an eager audience. It looks 
to me like a good show is about to begin.

Association and Society Reports

 

(PRESENTATIONS BASED ON KEYNOTE ADDRESSES)

Agronomy’s Diamond Jubilee, 1907-1982, was 
celebrated by The American Society of Agron­
omy and affiliated Societies in Anaheim, 
California, November 28 through December 3. 
The theme, " 75 Years of Progress in Inte­
grating the Soil - Water - Air - Plant 
System for Mankind", applied equally well 
for turfgrass as for food and fiber crops. 
Fifty eight papers concerned with turfgrass 
research were presented by scientists from 
all regions of the United States.
At a special session, Dr Nyle C Brady, Senior 
Assistant Administrator for Science and 
Technology, AID, Washington, DC and Dr David 
W Dibb, Southeast Director, Potash and 
Phosphate Institute, Atlanta, Georgia, dis­
cussed Agriculture's Science Based Revolu­
tion and Agronomic Systems for Feeding Gen­
erations to Come. The following review of 
these presentations focuses on application 
of principles presented to turfgrass science.

TURFGRASS SCIENCE-  
A SYSTEMS APPROACH

The past 75 years have featured remarkable 
advances in all aspects of science. Agri­
cultural science and agronomic science in 
particular have provided technical leader­
ship in all areas of scientific endeavor.
The initial 43 American Society of Agronomy 
members in 1907 have increased to some 
12,000 members in 1982. During this period 
changes in farm productivity have been 
noted. An average yearly productivity in­
crease of 0.2 % for farmers was common up 
to about 1940. At that time a seven fold 
increase in productivity occurred. Agri­
culture's science based revolution was 
under way.
New levels of confidence developed in re­
search, in recommendations from research, 
in business and in commerce. The private 
sector component gained vitality and Agri­
business became a reality. The seed indus­
try was among other agricultural leaders.
Medical science also made key contributions 
during this period. As life expectancy 
increased, population increases followed.
Food needs increased and in this country 
we have been able to keep supply equal or 
better than demand. The cost has been a 
smaller percentage of expendable personal 
income than anywhere in the world. With 
all of this has come a higher standard of 
living and a more satisfying quality of 
life for most Americans.

LAWNS AND SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL  
ACTIVITIES ON LIVE GREEN GRASS  
CONTRIBUTE TO QUALITY OF LIFE

Among those quality of life criteria of 
greatest significance have been access to 
and first hand experience with lawns, garden­
ing and related out of doors activities con­
cerned with sports and recreation on live 
green grass. The concept of plants to en­
hance our environment has become a reality 
and we recognize more and more the importance 
of this in developing and maintaining com­
munity respect and pride in accomplishment.
We have been able to make these advances 
because new practices have come from scien­
tific achievement. New knowledge concern­
ing soil and water relationships; chemical, 
physical and microbiological functions of 
the soil environment; the critical importan­
ce of soil organic matter, particularly as 
related to the efficiency in use of mineral 
nutrients by plants; and the genetic basis 
for hybrid vigor and use of advanced breed­
ing techniques in the development of new 
varieties has all helped to provide prac­
tical improvements in the way we grow and 
use plants of all types.
Given this level of achievement, what is 
there left to be done, particularly in the 
area of Turfgrass Science ? All indications 
are that the surface has barely been scrat­
ched. The past 75 years have provided an 
excellent base upon which to make contin­
uing advances. The whole concept of low 
maintenance turf is a challenge to science 
for new grasses and new management practices 
that are more cost effective.

TURFGRASS GERMPLASM FOR MAXIMIZED  

ENVIRONMENTAL STRESS TOLERANCE

The genetic potential is there; germplasm 
must be utilized to produce cultivars with 
maximized environmental stress tolerance. 
Past research with the objective to merely 
improve yields and desirable growth char­
acteristics is now thought' to be outdated. 
New emphasis on maximizing both yields and 
essential growth characteristics is focus­
ing new light on current research.
Space age technology has lead us to believe 
that all things are possible. Sights can 
now be set on maximum yields and highest 
quality. Through team research effort and 
a systems approach methodology, expectations 
for meeting research goals should be high.

Association and Society Reports 

CONTINUED

THE SYSTEMS APPROACH  

FOR POSITIVE INTERACTIONS

Research on systems that involve genetic 
engineering, plant engineering, rhizosphere 
technology and plant growth regulators must 
be designed to produce positive interactions. 
Quality turfgrass cover is always the result 
of interactions between plant and soil and 
climate as influenced by the genetic poten­
tial of the plant under the influence of a 
wide range of possible cultural practices.
The current resource of available technology 
can be put together in new ways that create 
more positive interactions. In addition, 
new technology can contribute when placed 
in line with existing technology. The key 
is involvement with systems rather than with 
isolated factors as has been the case with 
much of our past research emphasis.

ECONOMIC PRACTICALITIES  

AND SETTING OF RESEARCH GOALS

Finally, although it is extremely difficult 
not to let economics affect the determina­
tion of research goals, this temptation 
must be resisted. We must know how turf- 
grasses grow before we can maximize prac­
tices that show us how to grow them. We 
realize all too well that economic benefit 
comes from knowing how to grow turfgrasses. 
Thus, the more fundamental research needs 
leading to practical recommendations 'are 
an essential prerequisite.
If we follow the example set in the devel­
opment of the memory calculator, the econ­
omic issues will be solved following the 
birth of the idea and its realization in 
substance. Twenty years ago this type of 
calculator did not exist; ten years ago 
they were used by scientists and mathema­
ticians; and now most households have one 
at the cost of $10.00 or less. The idea 
was sound and although the product was 
expensive to begin with, it is now one of 
the best buys on the market.
A systems approach for turfgrass research 
is already underway at several stations. 
Integrated pest management research is a 
definate step in the right direction. It 
is certain that turfgrass science will con­
tinue to keep pace with agronomic science 
during the next twenty five years. Where 
there is a critical need for new informa­
tion, a systems approach method will find 
it and make it functional in our enjoyment 
of all turf and lawngrasses.

P.O. BOX 108

(COMMENTARY FROM THE MAIL)

A Turf Management Computer Program

From: J Benton Jones, Jr, President,

Benton Laboratories, Inc 
P 0 BOX 5455
Athens, GA 30604

"Small home-type computers are coming into 
greater use with an ever widening array of 
applications in business, science and agri­
culture. As a first of its kind, the user 
can now apply computer technology to the 
business of TURF MANAGEMENT, and at a low 
cost. Designed for a wide range of uses, 
they are-

-  information source on turf
-  lawn and garden shop customer assistance
-  guide for professional turf manager
- written instructions for maintenance 
- education in turf management

workers

This computer program provides information 
for 6 common turf species (bluegrass, bent- 
grass, fescue, perennial ryegrass, bermuda- 
grass, zoysiz, St Augustine grass and centi­
pede) and includes the following -
SPECIES CHARACTERISTICS tolerance to shade, 
temperature, drought, salinity and wear
CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS mowing height, opti­
mum soil pH and fertilizer requirements
ESTABLISHMENT recommendations for seeding 

or sprigging, and time of planting

LIME & FERITLIZER RECOMMENDATIONS recommen­
dations based on past treatments, level 
of turf appearance and performance 
desired

WEED CONTROL chemicals recommended for con­

trol "

P.O. BOX 108 
CONTINUED

1982-83 Gardens for All Survey 

From: Nancy Flinn

The National Association for Gardening 
180 Flynn Ave 
Burlington, VT 05401

"Over one half of American households -44 
million of America's estimated 82.4 million 
households- grew food for their tables in
1982.....  Home and community vegetable
gardening is a growing way of life spread 
across nearly 2 million acres, comprised
of dooryards and checkerboard plots....
Eighty six percent of all Americans are 
involved in at least one gardening activity
from lawn care to flower gardening .....
Lawn care included 63 % of American house­
holds .....  Vegetable gardening has become
the nation's number one outdoor leisure 
time activity according to this 1982-83 
Gardens for All/Gallup National Gardening 
Survey." A fact sheet on the survey is 
available by sending $1.00 to cover costs 
of postage and handling to Dept P156,
180 Flynn Avenue, Burlington VT 05401.

A SKETCH OF THE NEW HOME OF THE 
LAWN INSTITUTE HEADQUARTERS IN

PLEASANT HILL, TENNESSEE

Quarterly Program Report

(INSTITUTE PROGRESS AND ACHIEVEMENT)

In addition to travel and participation in 
conferences and meetings listed under 
ITINERARY, program activity has involved 
the following four areas:
MEMBERSHIP/VARIETY REVIEW/PRODUCT REVIEW/ 

LOGO/SEAL OF APPROVAL RELATIONSHIPS

At the 1982 Lawn Institute Annual meeting, 
President Norm Rothwell initiated a process 
for study of the relationships between mem­
bership and the functioning of Variety Re­
view and Product Review Boards and use of 
the Institute Logo and Seal of Approval.
To be included in the study were issues 
concerning proprietary and public turf- 
grasses as well as the extent to which The 
Lawn Institute should become more active 
in the allied industry area. Your views 
sent to the headquarter's office will be 
of value to the Study Committee. A report 
will be presented at the 1983 Annual meeting.

THE LAWN INSTITUTE - 

- Who We Are and What We Do -

A leaflet describing the organization and 
goals of The Lawn Institute and including 
information on membership and program support 
is available from the headquarter's office.
It has been designed to tell more about 
who we are and what we do.

LAWNS, GARDENS AND POOLS

Twenty two articles on lawns (590 lines of 
typed copy) has been submitted to the Will­
iam C Pflaum Co for use in their 1983 edition 
of Lawns, Gardens and Pools. This education­
al effort is supported jointly by the Amer­
ican Seed Trade Association Lawn Seed Divi­
sion and The Lawn Institute. These articles 
along with others on gardening and pools are 
used annually by communicators concerned with 
out of doors living topics

THREE PAPERS PRESENTED ON LAWNS AND TURF
At- New York State Turfgrass Conference

-"Turfgrasses for Athletic Uses"
-"Low Maintenance Lawns- Are They the 

Future ?"

At- Oregon Seed Growers League

-"Lawn Seed Fit for a Global Market"

Two papers presented at the New York State 
Turfgrass Conference will be printed in 
their conference proceedings. The Oregon 
Seed Growers League paper is included in 
this issue of Harvests.

ITINERARY

(TRAVEL, MEETINGS ATTENDED)

In a continuing attempt to keep The Lawn 
Institute current in turfgrass science and 
practice, the following contacts were made 
during the past quarter:

November 1 

November 3 

- Blacksburg, VA

Virginia Polytechnic In­
stitute and State Univer­
sity
Field research review with 
Dr R E Schmidt
Extension education review 
with Dr J R Hall III

- Williamsburg, VA

The Lawn Institute Execu­
tive Committee meeting

November 3,4 - Williamsburg, VA

The Atlantic Seedsmen's 
Association meeting

November 5 

- Williamsburg, VA

American Seed Trade Asso­
ciation- Lawn Seed Divi­
sion meeting
November 9,10- Rochester, NY

New York State Turf Con­
ference

November 11  - Bound Brook, NJ

Lofts Pedigreed Seed Inc
Research review with
Richard Hurley
November 15  - Beltsville, MD

USDA research review with
Jack Murray

November 15  - Beltsville, MD

USDA Plant Variety Protec­
tion office program review 
with Dr K H Evans and 
J J Higgins

November 15  - College Park, MD

Dr F V Grau consultations 
regarding The Musser Foun­
dation and turfgrass re­
search

November 16  - College Park, MD

University of Maryland 
Turfgrass extension review 
with Dr Thomas Turner
November 28-December 3 - Anaheim, CA

The American Society of 
Agronomy Diamond Jubilee 
meeting

December 6,7 - Portland, OR

Oregon Seed Growers League 
meeting
Discussions were scheduled 
with :

Board of Directors
Oregon Fine Fescue Com­
mission
Board of Directors
Merion Bluegrass Asso­
ciation
Northwest Chewings Fescue 
and Red Creeping Fescue 
Association (Annual 
meeting)
Highland Bentgrass Asso­
ciation (representatives)

Looking Ahead

(PLANS FOR THE FUTURE)

The Lawn Institute will be represented at 
the following conferences, meetings and 
trade shows during the coming quarter:

January 6,7  - Nashville, TN

Annual Conference of the 
Tennessee Turfgrass Asso­
ciation

February 20-25 -Atlanta, GA

Fifty fourth International 
Turfgrass Conference and 
Show of the Golf Course 
Superintendents Associa­
tion of America

February 28-March 2 - West Lafayette, IN 

Midwest Regional Turf 
Conference

In conjunction with these meetings in the 
southeast and midwest, other turfgrass 
related contacts will be scheduled.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS

(REVIEW OF CURRENT TURFGRASS  

RESEARCH LITERATURE)

The American Society of Agronomy annual 
meeting held the last of November and 
first of December 1982 featured fifty 
eight papers concerned with turfgrass 
science. These were presented orally 
and abstracts were included in Agronomy 
Abstracts -1982- Annual Meetings. Many 
of these papers will be published, pro­
viding more detail, in scientific jour­
nals. This series of reports represents 
an excellent cross section of current 
turfgrass research in the United States. 
Research results were reported from twenty 
eight states representing each of the 
several distinct climatic regions of the 
country. More than two papers were pre­
sented by turfgrass scientists from the 
states of Florida, Georgia, Illinois,
Iowa, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Texas.

Topics presented here have been grouped 
into eleven categories for your review:

-Turfgrass Genetics, Tissue Culture and 
Breeding
-Variety Evaluations
-Turfgrass Heat and Cold Hardiness
-Seeds and Seeding
-Sod and Sodding
-Soil Testing and Influence of Acidity 
and Fertility on Turfgrass
-Lawn Service Fertilization
-Growth Regulation and Weed Control
-Insect and Disease Control
-Soil Modification
-Water Use and Conservation

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 

CONTINUED

TURFGRASS GENETICS, TISSUE CULTURE  

AND BREEDING

Six reports were presented. These are 
indicative of current research emphasis. 
Interest in turf type tall fescues and 
the genetic potential of tall fescues in 
general is significant. New research on 
rough bluegrass appears promising. Growth 
characteristics of this grass are unique. 
The use of tissue culture in plant improve­
ment research has the potential for be­
coming an important asset in turfgrass  
science.

GENETIC VARIABILITY OF SEED YIELD  

IN TALL FESCUE

University of Missouri (Nguyen,Sleper)

Based on fifteen tall fescue parents that 
were randomly selected from a broad based 
population, breeding potential for the 
following characteristics was found to 
be excellent: Maturity Score, Number of 
Panicles, Panicle Length, Seed Yield and 
Seed Weight per Panicle. Heritability 
estimates were low for plant height, 
lodging score, reproductive herbage yield 
and number of seeds per panicle. Early- 
maturing plants had a larger number of 
panicles, shorter panicles, higher seed 
yields and larger seed size. These re­
sults were obtained from half-sib pro­
genies using polycross mating. All 
entries were evaluated for two years at 
two locations.

GENOTYPIC VARIABILITY IN TALL FESCUE  

TO PRODUCE CREEPING ROOTED STEMS

University of Georgia (D'Uva,Bouton,Brown)
Tall fescue is widely adapted throughout 
the transition zone of the country with 
Georgia located on the southern edge of 
adaptability. Heat stress limits vigor 
and ability to regenerate vegetatively. 
Twenty four tall fescue genotypes which 
were space planted as replicated, rooted 
tillers were grown for eight months in 
two locations and evaluated for rooted 
stem number and length, including both 
rhizomes and stolons. A wide variation 
in the development of rhizomes and stolons 
was found. Rooted stem numbers varied 
from 0 to 51 per plant; stem length from 
0 to 7 cm (0 to 3 inches); and crown area 
from 10 to 91 square cm (1.5 to 14 square 
inches). In some genotypes, rooted stems 
resembled rhizomes, while in others they 
resembled stolons. Crown area and rooted 
stems produced were directly related. 
Further study is required to determine the 
usefulness of this spreading characteristic 
in development of tall fescues for better 
adaptation in marginal areas.

CALLUS INDUCTION AND PLANT REGENERATION  

IN KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS 
University of Nebraska

(Manton, Riordan, Shearman )

Tissue culture involves the development of 
plants from callus tissue utilizing growth 
regulators under highly controlled condi­
tions. Orchardgrass, big bluestem, annual 
ryegrass, tall fescue and creeping bent- 
grass have been successfully cultured in 
this way. Because apomixis complicates 
genetic improvement of Kentucky bluegrass, 
tissue culture from immature inflorescences 
was attempted using the cultivar Adelphi. 
Whole plants were regenerated by 49 per­
cent of the callus tissue, while 38 per­
cent developed roots only. The appearance 
of albino plants provided evidence of 
genetic instability. Sixty six percent 
of the whole plants transplanted to soil 
in the greenhouse survived. These results 
were sufficiently encouraging to indicate 
the potential for Kentucky bluegrass 
improvement by use of cell and tissue cul­
ture.

HERITABILITY ESTIMATES FOR ROUGH BLUEGRASS  
BASED ON VARIABILITY OF REPLICATED CLONAL

Rutgers University (Hurley,Funk)

MATERIAL

Rough bluegrass has excellent shade tol­
erance under cool moist soil and climatic 
conditions. It is intolerant of heat and 
drought. Potential for use in overseeding 
is promising and the cultivar Sabre has 
lead to increased interest in this grass. 
The variability existing in natural popu­
lations of rough bluegrass was examined in 
234 clones collected from old turf stands. 
Evaluations for turf quality, leaf color, 
leaf texture, growth habit, plant density, 
seed shattering and disease susceptibility 
indicated genetic variability for all char­
acteristics. Improvements in sod density, 
darker green foliage, more desirable leaf 
texture and disease resistance are believed 
reasonable research objectives. Nine of 
the clones exhibited improved non-shatter­
ing tendencies.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 

CONTINUED

SUSCEPTIBILITY OF ROUGH BLUEGRASS GENO­
TYPES TO SCLEROTINIA HOMOEOCARPA AS

AFFECTED BY NITROGEN NUTRITION 
Rutgers University and USDA-ARS-NER

(Hurley, Funk, O’Neill)

Susceptibility of rough bluegrass to dol­
lar spot has been a limiting factor in the 
expanded use of this turfgrass. Two hun­
dred and thirty four individual clones 
were evaluated for this disease both in 
the greenhouse and in the field. Inocula­
tions of S. homoeocarpa were made to in­
duce the disease. Variations in degree of 
susceptibility were noted. In addition, 
there was characteristically less disease 
where additional nitrogen was applied. No 
selections were found to be totally resis­
tant to dollar spot.

HERITABILITY ESTIMATES FOR TURFGRASS  

New. Mexico State University 

TRAITS IN BERMUDAGRASS
(Woffard, Baltensperger)

Improved bermudagrasses are propagated 
vegetatively. In order to study the po­
tential for development of new seeded 
types, eight parental clones and their 
polycross progeny were vegetatively estab­
lished in a replicated field experiment. 
Visual scores were made on general appear­
ance, vigor, color and density. Stolon 
internode length, leaf length and leaf 
width measurements were made. Differences 
in vigor, stolon internode length, leaf 
length and color indicated favorable 
breeding potential.

VARIETY EVALUATIONS

Five reports were primarily concerned with 
variety evaluations in specific regions 
of the country. Such characteristics as 
salt tolerance, seasonal root response and 
shoot strength were studied. Evaluations 
of Kentucky bluegrasses, perennial rye­
grasses, buffalograss and adalaydgrass 
received major emphasis.

PERFORMANCE OF KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS AND 
PERENNIAL RYEGRASS CULTIVARS IN COASTAL

NORTH CENTRAL CALIFORNIA 
University of California

(Harivandi, Gibeault)

Forty three Kentucky bluegrasses and twen­
ty nine perennial ryegrasses were evaluated 
for adaptation and turf quality. Plots 
established in the fall of 1978 were clip­
ped at a 5 cm.(2 inch) height. Clippings 
were returned and level of fertility and 
irrigation maintained at a low rate. No 
pesticides were used, nor was turf de- 
thatched during the three year evaluation 
period. Turf was scored by a visual qual­
ity rating on a monthly basis. Several 
cultivars of each species produced "accep­
table" turf under these low maintenance 
conditions. More variation was found with 
Kentucky bluegrasses than with perennial 
ryegrasses. Disease caused low ratings 
in bluegrasses and cutting cruality and 
color lowered scores of ryegrasses. Among 
the best bluegrasses were: Merit, Columbia, 
Rugby, Hoga, Entropper, Trenton, A-34, 
Cheri, Sydsport, Ram I, Aquila, Baron, 
Parade, Majestic, Enmundi, Victa, Bruns­
wick, Geronimo, Enaldo, Adelphi and Berka. 
Of the perennial ryegrasses, Blazer, York­
town II, Pennfine, Diplomat, Arno, Elka, 
Derby and Fiesta scored highest.

IN THE TALLGRASS PRAIRIE REGION

THE USE OF BUFFALOGRASS AS A TURFGRASS 
Iowa State University (Brahm, Christians)
Buffalograss is a warm-season native of 
the great plains short-grass prairie. It 
is drought tolerant and used for low 
maintenance turf. As interest has in­
creased in natural landscapes and energy 
efficient lawns', the prospects of intro­
ducing buffalograss as a turfgrass in the 
tail-grass prairie region have been con­
sidered. Buffalograss is subject to en­
croachment of cool season grasses. It 
enters dormancy with the first frost in 
the fall and is slow to green up in the 
spring. Simazine at about 0.7 oz per 1000 
square feet (2.2 Kg/ha) gave most effect­
ive control of unwanted bluegrasses. Buf­
falograss cultivars, Common, Texoka and 
Sharp’s Improved produced best turf at a 
2 inch height of cut (5.0 cm). Applications 
of nitrogen had little effect on color or 
quality of the turf.

SALT TOLERANCE OF ADALAYDGRASS 

University of California (Leonard,Youngner)
Adalaydgrass (Paspalum vaginatum Swartz, 
var, ’Adalyad’) is a new turfgrass that has 
high salt tolerance. Plants grown in sol­
ution culture with increasing amounts of 
sodium and calcium chloride had excellent 
salt tolerance. Clipping dry weights de­
creased only 35 percent at the highest 
salt level. Increasing sodium was not 
found to be antagonistic to potassium up­
take, but may inhibit some magnesium ab­
sorption. Both sodium and chlorine in­
creased in all plant parts as salts in­
creased. Increased plant succulence and 
salt glands, possible mechanisms for regu­
lation of internal ion concentrations,were 
not evident. Adalaydgrass shows great 
promise for use on salt-affected soils or 
with low quality irrigation water.

SEASONAL ROOT RESPONSES OF FIVE COOL 
Ohio State University (Koski,Karnok)

SEASON TURFGRASSES

Seasonal rooting characteristics of creep­
ing bentgrass (Penncross), tall fescue 
(Rebel), perennial ryegrass (Manhattan), 
Kentucky bluegrass (Baron), and annual 
bluegrass were evaluated in a turfgrass 
rhizotron. Cutting height of creeping 
bentgrass and annual bluegrass was one 
inch (2.5 cm). The other species were 
maintained at a two inch height (5.0 cm). 
Approximately five pounds of nitrogen per 
l000 square feet (2.4 Kg/are) per year 
was used as a maintenance treatment. Ob­
servations over a two year period indica­
ted differences in rooting depth, growth 
activity and senescence patterns. Maximum 
activity occurred from mid-March to the 
end of April for Penncross, Baron, Rebel 
and Manhattan. Annual bluegrass had a 
severe reduction in root activity the 
beginning of April. This coincided with 
seedhead formation by that species. Man­
hattan had the deepest roots. Rebel roots 
were deeper than Baron or Penncross. An­
nual bluegrass had the shallowest and 
least extensive root system.

METHOD FOR DETERMINING SHOOT STRENGTH 

IN KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS CULTIVARS
(Bruneau, Hanna, Shearman, Bishop)

University of Nebraska 

Shoot strength was determined by measuring 
the puncture and shear forces needed on 
different Kentucky bluegrass cultivars. 
Park exhibited the greatest shear strength 
and Sydsport the least, regardless of 
whether they were grown in the field or 
under controlled environmental conditions. 
Park had the highest shoot puncture 
strength of all field grown paints, Other 
bluegrasses, including Adelphi, Baron, 
Fylking and Touchdown, had lesser shoot 
strength. These measurements could not 
be correlated with wear resistance but 
may be related to insect injury.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 

CONTINUED

TURFGRASS HEAT AND COLD HARDINESS

Five research projects considered various 
aspects of heat and cold on hardiness of 
different turfgrasses. Ability of turf 
to withstand environmental stress is es­
pecially important in the transition zone 
between warm season grass adaptation and 
cool season grass adaptation. It is also 
a recognized limiting factor in northern 
regions of extreme cold.

THE EFFECTS OF NITROGEN LEVEL AND 
SAMPLING DATE ON THE HEAT TOLERANCE 
OF KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS AND PERENNIAL

RYEGRASS

University of Maryland 
(Minner, Wehner, Dernoeden)

Sydsport, Pennstar and Vantage Kentucky 
bluegrasses and Pennfine, Citation and 
Caravelle perennial ryegrasses were eval­
uated for heat tolerance at six dates 
during July and August. Plants were field 
grown using four different nitrogen treat­
ments (0,2,3 and 4 pounds per 1000 square 
feet per year) 0,98,147 and 196 Kg/ha/yr. 
Heat treatments of 42,44 and 46 degrees 
centegrade (108,111 and 115 degrees fah- 
renheit)' were imposed on plants sealed in 
plastic bags and placed in the appropriate 
water bath for thirty minutes. Recovery 
was evaluated in the greenhouse. Differ­
ences were found between cultivars but not 
between nitrogen treatments. Bluegrasses 
were generally more heat tolerant than 
ryegrasses. Sydsport exhibited better 
heat tolerance than the other bluegrasses 
and Pennfine had most heat tolerance of 
the ryegrasses. Differences were noted 
between sampling dates. Heat tolerance 
at each date was correlated with the amount 
of precipitation and the average high tem­
perature for the period just prior to 
sampling. July tolerances were better 
than August.

THE EFFECTS OF FALL DROUGHT STRESS,
FALL APPLIED NITROGEN AND LATE WINTER 
ICE COVER ON THE COLD HARDINESS OF

The Pennsylvania State University

PERENNIAL RYEGRASS TURF 
(Welterlen, Watschke)

Crown samples of Pennfine perennial rye­
grass were used to evaluate cold hardiness. 
Results indicated that September applied 
nitrogen decreased hardiness while drought 
stress did not. Ice cover resulted in an 
amplification of the cold hardiness re­
sponse to fall applied nitrogen. Crowns 
from plants under ice which had been 
treated with 3 pounds of nitrogen per 1000 
square feet in September (146.7 Kg N/ha) 
were injured more than those not receiving 
nitrogen. Increasing cold hardiness of 
perennial ryegrass turf through adoption 
of proper cultural practices is important 
in extending northern limits for use of 
this grass.

PUTTING GREENS

USING PROTECTIVE COVERS ON BENTGRASS 
University of New Hampshire (Roberts)
Emerald creeping bentgrass was used to 
study desiccation during winter and early 
spring. Late fall applications included 
composted sewage sludge, pine needles and 
spunbonded nylon-polyester blankets. The 
spunbonded materials were more effective 
in reducing desiccation, stimulating growth 
and producing an earlier spring green up. 
The spunbonded materials had up to five 
percent more soil moisture and up to eight 
degrees centigrade (14 degrees fahrenheit) 
higher soil temperatures underneath when 
compared to untreated turf. Under pine 
needles or composted sewage sludge, soils 
were acutally a little cooler. No snow 
mold developed under any of the treatments.

THE INFLUENCE OF SYRINGING ON THE 
CANOPY TEMPERATURES OF BENTRASS GREENS
North Carolina State University (DiPaola)
Syringing provides small amounts of water 
on turfgrass foliage with the objective of 
cooling leaf surfaces during warm, often 
humid conditions. This practice was stud­
ied on a Penncross creeping bentgrass golf 
green maintained at one quarter inch (0.64 
cm). Eight rates of water application at 
one of two times (11 AM and 1 PM) were 
established as treatments. Canopy and 
air temperatures, relative humidity, bar­
ometric pressure, irradiance and wind 
speed records were kept at hourly intervals. 
A transient one to two degree centegrade 
(1.8 to 3.6 degree fahrenheit) drop in 
canopy temperature was found following 
syringing some of the time. Overall, in 
the absence of wilt, bentgrass canopy 
temperatures were not altered much by 
syringing.

THE EFFECT OF SUPRAOPTIMAL TEMPERATURES 
ON DAMAGE AND REGROWTH OF KENTUCKY
University of Minnesota (Ruser, White)

BLUEGRASS

The effect of controlled supraoptimal temp­
eratures on damage and regrowth of Fylking, 
Glade, Baron and Adelphi Kentucky bluegrass 
sod was investigated. Temperatures vary­
ing from 30.0 to 45 degrees centegrade 
(80 to 133 degrees fahrenheit) were im­
posed by use of a water bath. Treatment 
duration varied from one to forty eight 
hours. Thirty seven and five tenths de­
grees centegrade (99.5 degrees fahrenheit) 
was the threshold temperature for
the regrowth of roots. After one hour of 
this treatment, regrowth of roots was 
severly limited. Longer exposure at this 
or higher temperatures were required for 
adverse effect on topgrowth. Visible 
cellular damage was observed in leaf tis­
sue following treatment at forty degrees 
centegrade (104 degrees fahrenheit). These 
results have been related to post harvest 
heating and damage during storage and 
handling of sod. Up to temperatures of 
forty degress centegrade, respiration of 
living tissue is involved; after forty 
degrees centegrade, heat is generated by 
thermophillic micro-organisms decomposing 
dead tissue. The rate of heating up to 
forty degrees is uniform. Optimum temp­
erature for foliage is about 26.7 degrees 
centegrade (80 degrees fahrenheit). That 
for roots is about 15.6 degrees centegrade 
(60 degrees fahrenheit). Verdure has a 
great influence on heat generation. More 
information is needed on rhizome and crown 
tolerance to variations in temperatures.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS

CONTINUED

SEEDS AND SEEDING

Three presentations reported results of 
investigations on seeds and seeding. Seed 
Yields in the production regions of the 
country are of critical importance. Main­
tenance of continuing high yields is a 
key research topic. Increasing rate of 
seed germination helps in stand establish­
ment. Research to improve seed usage is 
always of great value.

KENTUCKY 31 TALL FESCUE

PREGERMINATION OF ANNUAL RYEGRASS AND 
University of Florida (Dudeck,Peacock)
Annual ryegrass and Kentucky 31 fescue 
seed were soaked in water or gibberellic 
acid for up to 48 hours and germinated in 
incubators at optimum or suboptimum temp­
eratures. Annual ryegrass treated with 
50 parts per million gibberellic acid and 
kept moist for 48 hours at 25 degrees 
centegrade (77 degrees fahrenheit) will 
germinate at a 50 percent rate in one half 
to one day depending on temperature. Soak­
ing seed at the same temperature in well- 
aerated water for 24 hours without gibber­
ellic acid treatment will take 3 to 6 
days for half of the seed to germinate. 
Again, this depends on germination temp­
erature. With Kentucky 31 fescue, the 
gibberellic acid treatment produced 50 per­
cent germination in 1.8 to 3.4 days. With­
out gibberellic acid, 4.0 to 8.7 days were 
required. These treatments were found to 
be the most practical for promoting rapid 
emergence of these grass species.

KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS SEED YIELD COMPONENTS 
AS AFFECTED BY RESIDUE MANAGEMENT
Texas A and M University and 
University of Idaho (Hickey, Ensign)

A four year field study compared the ef­
fects of burning and mechanical vacuum 
removal of post harvest residue on seed 
yield of five Kentucky bluegrass cultivars. 
Rhizome weights were reduced where residue 
was burned. Burning increased tiller 
numbers, panicle numbers and seed yields. 
Root weights were unaffected by method 
of residue removal. Tiller production 
was associated with decreased rhizome 
weights. The increase in tiller produc­
tion where residue was burned was attribu­
ted to decreased apical dominance, allow­
ing upturning of rhizomes into new tillers.

EFFECTS OF SUNLIGHT REDUCTION TO 
SIMULATE POST-HARVEST RESIDUE
ACCUMULATIONS ON SEED PRODUCTIVITY 

University of Idaho (Ensign,Hickey,Bernardo)
Kentucky bluegrass grown for seed in the 
Pacific northwest produces an abundance of 
straw residue which must be removed after 
harvest. Baron Kentucky bluegrass was 
used to measure the effect of artificially 
reduced sunlight on tiller growth, plant 
development and seed yield. After field 
burning in Septmenber, shade screens, which 
excluded 30 and 67 percent of the sun­
light were suspended about twenty inches 
(50 cm) over the soil surface and left in 
place for 75 and 130 days. Artificially 
shaded plants produced fewer tillers, 
shroter stems and leaf sheaths and fewer 
panicles than plants which had no residue 
removed. Plants which were open field 
burned and not shaded produced more tillers, 
shorter stems and sheath lengths, more 
panicles and greater seed yield than plants 
which had no residue removed or were arti­
ficially shaded.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 

CONTINUED

SOD AND SODDING

Three research project concerned with sod 
and sodding were reviewed. Growth of sod 
on mineral and on organic soil continues 
to create differences in handling and trans­
planting. Research is helping to explain 
these differences. Use of sewage sludge 
in sod production has been found to have 
both potential and limitations. Decreasing 
time to produce sod for market by use of 
nets and other practices helps increase 
production efficiency. A fourth report 
is included in the section on heat and 
cold hardiness. It is concerned with post 
harvest heating of sod.

USE OF COMPOSTED SEWAGE SLUDGE IN KENTUCKY 

BLUEGRASS SOD PRODUCTION
Michigan State University 
(Carroll, Rieke, Jacobs)

Detroit dewatered sewage sludge cake, com­
posted by the Beltsville aerated pile meth­
od was incorporated to depths of 4 or 8 
inches (10 or 20 cm) on a fine sand and 
on a sandy clay loam prior to establishment 
of Kentucky bluegrass for sod. Two years 
after treatment, increasing rate of compost 
increased saturated hydraulic conductivity, 
soil water holding capacity and plant avail 
able water. Soil bulk density decreased. 
Levels of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, 
zinc, copper, cadmium and nickel in the 
soil and in clippings increased. Heavy 
metal contents of clippings were not 
increased sufficiently of affect turf 
growth or sod development. Compost addi­
tions increased soil pH. The following 
actual and acceptable levels of heavy met­
als (parts per million) in the sludge were 
recorded:
empty table cell
cadmium
chromium
copper
lead
nickel
zinc
No nitrogen response was noted on the sand: 
however, there was a nitrogen response on 
the cly loam. No difference was found in 
sod strength that could be related to use 
of compost.

25
1000
1000
1000
200
2500

60
1180
540
570
480
1680

Actual ppm

Acceptable ppm

RAPID PRODUCTION OF CENTIPEDE SOD USING 

PLASTIC NET

University of Georgia (Burns)

A COMPARISON OF ORGANIC VERSUS MINERAL 
University of Florida (Peacock,Dudeck)

GROWN SOD FOR TURF ESTABLISHMENT

A comparison of organic (muck) versus 
mineral (sand) grown sods for turf estab­
lishment was made utilizing Floratam St 
Augustinegrass. Sand grown sod had great­
er rooting strength than muck sod. A rate 
of nitrogen fertilization of one pound per 
1000 square feet ( 5g N/m2) at the time 
of sodding produced greater rooting 
strength than twice that amount. Turf 
quality and growth rate were best for 
the muck sod. Two pounds of nitrogen per 
1000 square feet (10g N/m2) produced the 
best quality turf and the fastest growth 
rate. Organic sod consists of about 74 
percent organic matter and 2.9 percent 
nitrogen. Mineral sod has about 4 percent 
organic matter and 0.18 percent nitrogen.
As organic muck oxidizes, turf crowns 
become more exposed. This may help explain 
the decline in turf quality on lawns es­
tablished from muck grown sod during the 
second and third growing seasons.

Centipedegrass produces a low maintenance 
turf, resulting in energy conservation, 
because of its slow growth and low fertil­
ity requirements. Plastic nets were stud­
ied as a means of reducing time required 
to produce sod. Nets were placed on the 
soil following seeding at various rates. 
After 78 days, sod cut at about one half 
inch (12 cm) thickness was too weak to 
hold together. Where nets were used, sod 
strength was increased and sod had good 
dimensional stability. The interaction 
of the plant and the small mesh (5mm) net 
was more efficient than for the larger 
net (18mm mesh). Rate of ground cover 
was directly related to rate of seeding.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 

CONTINUED

SOIL TESTING AND INFLUENCE OF ACIDITY 

AND FERTILITY ON TURFGRASSES

Nine papers were concerned with some aspect 
of soil testing or influence of soil acid­
ity and fertility on turfgrasses. Appli­
cations of lime and fertilizer provide 
the means for initiating the greatest con­
trol possible over turfgrass growth and 
development. These reports help in im­
proving our understanding of soil-turfgrass 
relationships.

SOIL TEST CALIBRATION STUDIES 
FOR TURFGRASS ESTABLISHMENT
University of Maryland and 

The Pennsylvania State University

(Turner,Waddinton)

Seedings of perennial ryegrass-Kentucky 
bluegrass, and red fescue-Kentucky blue­
grass mixtures as well as monocultures of 
perennial ryegrass, red fescue and Ken­
tucky bluegrass were used to evaluate 
turfgrass response during establishment. 
Different levels of applied phosphorus, 
postassium and limestone on soils of diff­
erent initial levels of fertility were 
seedbed treatment variables. Initial soil 
fertility varied as follows:

Value

Low
5.6
6.0
0.08
4.1
0.8 %
41.7 %

to High
6.5
pH
76.0
phosphorus (ppm)
0.20
potassium (me/100g)
6.1
calcium (me/100g)
2.2 %
potassium saturation
64.5 %
calcium saturation
On these soils, limestone and potassium 
applications had no beneficial effects 
during the first year of establishment. 
Where there was less than 30 ppm phosphorus 
most rapid and satisfactory establishment 
occurred when soil phosphorus was increased 
to 40 to 70 ppm. This was accomplished by 
adding 1.3 to 4.0 Kg/a to the seedbed (2.7 
to 8.2 pounds per 1000 square feet). More 
phosphorus than this gave little additional 
benefit. Phosphorus raked into the surface 
half inch produced about the same response 
as higher rates worked in to a depth of 
about 4 inches.

SULFUR-COATED UREA VERSUS AMMONIUM 
NITRATE ON THE PRODUCTION OF FOUR

WARM SEASON GRASSES 
Brigham Young University
(Mooso, Jolley, Robison,Nelson)

Four warm-season grasses, Pensacola bahia- 
grass, Bigalta limpograss, Pangola digit- 
grass and Callie bermudagrass were treated 
with six levels of ammonium nitrate and 
sulfur-coated urea at a field location in 
Central Florida. Phophorus and potassium 
were applied in conjunction with the ni­
trogen sources in a 9:1:4 nitrogen: phos­
phorus: potassium ratio. Treatment level 
affected the total annual dry matter pro­
duction for each of the grasses. Pangola 
digitgrass and Pensacola bahiagrass treat­
ed with sulfur-coated urea produced less 
dry matter than when treated with ammon­
ium nitrate. No differences were observed 
with the other two grasses.

EFFECT OF ELEMENTAL SULFUR AND ACIDITY 
ON THE GERMINATION AND GROWTH OF ANNUAL
BLUEGRASS AND PERENNIAL RYEGRASS - 
University of Florida (Varco, Sartain)

Effects of elemental sulfur and soil acid­
ity on germination, establishment and 
yield of annual bluegrass and perennial 
ryegrass were evaluated under greenhouse 
and growth chamber conditions. Applications 
of elemental sulfur at rates of 50 to 
150 Kg/ha (1 to 3 pounds per 1000 square 
feet) were incorporated in the top one 
sixth of pots filled with a fine sandy soil. 
A soil pH of 4.8 was found when 100yKg/ha 
(2 pounds per 1000 square feet) of sulfur 
was used. This reduced emergence of 
annual bluegrass at the 17th day and es­
tablishment and yield at the 30th day. 
Emergence was reduced 40 %, establishment 
47 % and yield 63 %. When Pennant rye­
grass was used as the test plant, emer­
gence was reduced 18 %, establishment 15 % 
and yield 20 %. With decreasing pH 
from 7.0 to 4.3 germination of Pennant 
ryegrass was reduced 3.5 %; germination 
of annual bluegrass decreased 41 %.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 
CONTINUED

EFFECT OF ACIDITY ON NUTRIENT UPTAKE 
AND GROWTH OF WARM AND COOL SEASON

TURFGRASSES

University of Florida (Sartain)

A range of soil pH (3.9 to 6.8) was estab­
lished using elemental sulfur or calcium 
hydroxide. A study was initiated on the 
influence of soil acidity on nutrient 
uptake, efficiency of applied nitrogen from 
different sources, growth, thatch devel­
opment and weed infestation in Tifgreen 
bermudagrass and Derby ryegrass. Three 
sources of nitrogen- ammonium sulfate,
IBDU and sewage sludge were used. Tif­
green bermudagrass grew well across the 
entire pH range. Excessive thatch developed 
on plots having a pH below 5.0. Derby 
ryegrass establishment was reduced at a 
pH below 4.7. Annual bluegrass did not 
establish in plots with a pH below 4.6. 
Overall weed infestation was reduced below 
pH 5.0. Soil reaction influenced the 
growth response from IBDU more than the 
other nitrogen sources.

AN ASSESSMENT OF OXAMIDE AS A NEW 
NITROGEN SOURCE FOR TURFGRASS
Texas A and M University (Beard,Johns,Menn)
Oxamide has been found to be a promising 
nitrogen carrier for turfgrass fertiliza­
tion. Texas common St Augustinegrass and 
Tifway bermudagrass were used as test 
grasses under the hot, humid climate and 
alkaline soil conditions of the south­
western United States. Oxamide was com­
pared with standard nitrogen carriers in 
spring, summer and fall experiments. Ox­
amide performed in these trials as one of 
the better nitrogen carriers. It had good 
slow release properties. It also has the 
capacity to produce a distinctly darker 
green color than the other nitrogen car­
riers without excessive shoot growth. This 
response was particularly noticeable in 
terms of extended late fall color and early 
spring green up.

DINITROGEN FIXATION WITH 'PARK'

KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS LINES 
University of Nebraska
(Lee,Shearman,Klucas)

Park Kentucky bluegrass turf inoculated 
with Klebsiella pneumoniae (W-6) possessed 
nitrogenase activity in two previous Neb­
raska studies. Nitrogen fixation activity 
under field conditions within fifteen lines 
comprising Park was investigated with em­
phasis on determining potential for speci­
fic activity. Acetylene (C2H2) reduction 
was detected in the intact cores but 
differences were not evident among the 
lines nor between inoculants. However, 
nitrogenase activities were different in 
washed roots with the two inoculants.
The potential for increasing nitrogen fix­
ation capacity under mowed turf is consi­
dered sufficient for further investigation. 

EVALUATION OF N2-FIXATION IN BAHIAGRASS 
BY 15n-ISOTOPE DILUTION AND OTHER

TECHNIQUES

University of Florida 

(Green,Smith,Littell,Schank)

The potential for nitrogen fixation in 
twenty one genotypes of bahiagrass was 
investigated under greenhouse conditions. 
Plants were inoculated with a mixture of 
seven diazotrophs. An overall response to 
inoculation was noted in top dry weight, 
top nitrogen and plant nitrogen. Acetylene 
reduction was inconsistant. Inoculated and 
control plant-soil systems accumulated 
0.096 and 0.092 grams of nitrogen respec­
tively. Of this, 81 percent was in the 
soil and 76 percent of this portion was 
organic. Recovery of 15N-Isotope for the 
system and for the plant were 57 percent 
and 40 percent respectively. Thirty one 
percent of our nitrogen is fixed by indus­
trial processes. This takes petroleum 
energy. Boilogical nitrogen fixation 
amounts to 15 to 30 Kg/ha per year (0.3 
to 0.6 pounds per 1000 square feet).

NITRATE LEACHING, REDOX POTENTIAL 
DENITRIFYING MICROORGANISMS AND TURF
•QUALITY AS AFFECTED BY SUBSOIL 
AMENDMENT AND DRAINAGE STATUS
University of Nevada (Young,Helms)

To test the possibility of removing nitrate 
by denitrification below the root zone, 
the effect of wheat straw, peat, wood plus 
bark and sulfur as subsoil amendments in 
conjunction with restricted drainage were 
measured. Nitrate, nitrite and total ni­
trogen were leached from lysimeters sodded 
with Kentucky bluegrass fertilized with 
ammonium nitrate at one pound of nitrogen 
per 1000 square feet (48.7 Kg/ha) per 
month. The restricted drainage lysimeters 
leached much less nitrate and total nitro­
gen than ‘the controls. No differences 
among amendments were noted. The final 
population of denitrifying microorganisms 
did not differ with treatment. Turf yield 
and nitrogen removed by the turf were 
lowered by the restricted drainage treat­
ments, but the turf appeared healthy.

INFLUENCE OF FERTILIZERS ON A 
MICRONUTRIENT TREATED SAND-BASED

PUTTING GREEN

Oklahoma State University

University of Illinois, USGA Green Section, 
(Fermanian,Battan,Claypool,Huffine,Samples)
Penncross creeping bentgrass maintained as 
putting green turf was evaluated for re­
sponse to applications of sulfur, a micro­
nutrient fertilizer (Perk) and routine 
treatments of three nitrogen fertilizers. 
Urea with either a 0.5 or 1.0 percent 
terrazole coating, non-coated urea, Milor- 
ganite and Ureaform were compared. Re­
gardless of nitrogen source, sulfur applied 
at from 1,463.6 to 2,927.2 Kg/ha (28 to 
56 pounds per 1000 square feet) increased 
yields. Turf fertilized with urea and 
487.9 Kg/ha (10 pounds per 1000 square 
feet) of Perk had higher yields than other 
Perk treated plots.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 
CONTINUED

LAWN SERVICE FERTILIZATION

Six research projects were concerned with 
lawn treatments and applications of the 
type utilized in lawn service. These 
emphasized the safe and effective use of 
liquid fertilizers. Since the mid 1950's 
when oil dealers first became interested in 
use of their trucks in the "off season" by 
making applications of liquid fertilizers 
to lawns, the lawn service professional 
has developed a highly creditable image. 
Research has been a key element in this 
process.

LIQUID NITROGEN FERTILIZATION PROGRAMS 

ON KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS

Kansas State University (Carrow)

Park and Baron Kentucky bluegrasses grown 
on a silt loam soil and treated with urea 
(45-0-0) applied at the rate of 1.94 Kg 
nitrogen/l00 m2/year (4 pounds per 1000 
square feet) were evaluated for turf 
quality. Four treatments a year were 
made according to the following schedules:
Traditional-March 15,June l,July 15,Sep­
NonDormant-April 20,June 15,September 1, 
Winter Dormant-April 20,June 1,September 1, 

tember 1
October 30

December 30

Nondormant late fall programs produced 
highest visual quality Baron. With Park, 
the nondormant late fall and dormant winter 
programs produced similar results. For 
both cultivars the traditional early spring 
programs were least effective. Mid summer 
to late summer quality was unacceptable in 
all programs because of inadequate nitro­
gen availability.

EVALUATION OF SIX LIQUID-APPLIED 
FERTILIZERS ON KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS

University of Illinois 

(Spangenberg,Fermanian,Wehner)

A mixture of Columbia and Touchdown Ken­
tucky bluegrass was used to evaluate the 
effect of six liquid-applied nitrogen 
fertilizers. FLUF, Folian, Formolene, 
Nitroform, UAN and urea were applied four 
times per season at a rate of 48.8 Kg/ha 
(one pound per 1000 square feet) nitrogen 
at each application. Chelated iron and 
urea were combined with slower acting 
sources to test rate of color response.
A more favorable color response was noted 
when either iron or urea were added to 
these materials early in the season. Later 
applications did not produce this color 
boost. When used alone, Folian and Formo­
lene gave a more rapid color change. Nitro­
form response was improved the second year 
of the study. Less thatch developed under 
Nitroform treatments.

BLUEGRASS

FOLIAR BURN COMPARISONS OF A NUMBER OF 
LIQUID FERTILIZERS APPLIED TO KENTUCKY
Iowa State University (Johnson,Christians)
Several liquid fertilizers were evaluated 
on Kentucky bluegrass using a low volume 
spinning disc applicator. Each material 
was applied at rates of 0.13, 0.25, and 
0.50 Kg/are (0.25, 0.50, 1.00 pounds per 
1000 square feet) nitrogen. Treatments 
were not watered in. At the highest rates 
unacceptable levels of burn were observed 
on plots treated with urea and Folian. 
Marginal to acceptable burn levels were 
found on turf treated with Formalene and 
Formalene plus urea. Little or no burn 
occurred when FLUF-PLUS, FLUF or TUFF were 
used.

PHYTOTOXICITY OF SPRAYABLE SLOW RELEASE 

Purdue University (Freeborg,Daniel)

NITROGEN

Kentucky bluegrass was tested for phyto­
toxicity of sprayable nitrogen during 
1980 and 1981 seasons. In 1980, applica­
tions were made on June 18 and July 31.
In 1981, applications were made on June 
5,June 30,July 29, and September 10. Li­
quid formulations of fertilizer containing 
either urea formaldehyde, urea plus urea 
formaldehyde combinations or urea dicyan- 
diamide nitrification inhibitor and urea 
were evaluated. Ten fertilizers were in­
cluded in 1980 tests and eight formulations 
in 1981. Climatological considerations 
were evaluated. No evidence of phyto- . 
toxicity was noted where materials were 
used properly.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 
CONTINUED
AMMONIA VOLATILIZATION LOSSES FROM 
FOLIAR APPLIED UREA ON FIELD GROWN

'PARK' KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS 
University of Nebraska
(Wesely,Shearman,Kinbacher)

Ammonia volatilization and plant uptake 
are important in determining nitrogen 
efficiency. Labeled urea (15N) was applied 
to Park Kentucky bluegrass grown on a silty 
clay loam soil. This labeled urea was 
sprayed at rates of 1.7 and 3.4 grams of 
nitrogen per m2 (One third and two thirds 
pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square feet).
The rate of spray application was 35 ml/ 
m2 (0.9 gallons per 1000 square feet). 
Measurements of ammonia volatilization 
were made 1,5,9,13 and 25 hours after treat­
ment. Additional daily measurements were 
made through four days (96 hours). Ammonia 
losses increased with nitrogen rate and 
time during the first day. Maximum loss 
occurred the second day for both treatments. 
Calculated four day nitrogen losses were 
in the range 31 to 35 percent. Nitrogen 
content of clippings increased with rate 
of applied nitrogen.' Maximum uptake oc­
curred at nine hours for both treatments. 
Fourteen percent of the nitrogen was ab­
sorbed from the foliar applied urea.

IRON FERTILIZATION OF KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS 

University of Illinois (Yust,Wehner)

Iron sulfate or iron chelate in combination 
with urea was spray applied on seven dates 
over two years. A Columbia/Touchdown 
Kentucky bluegrass stand was evaluated for 
color. Color enhancement lasted from a 
few days when treatments were applied in 
the spring to sixty six days when treat­
ments were made in the fall. A combination 
of 2.24 Kg/ha (0.75 ounce per 1000 square 
feet of iron from the chelate ) and urea 
nitrogen at 25 Kg/ha (0.5 pound per 1000 
square feet) were most efficacious. Neither 
iron source was phytotoxic unless applied 
at a rate higher than 17.92 Kg/ha (6 ounces 
per 1000 square feet) of iron.

EFFICACY OF REDUCED RATES OF PREEMERGENCE 
HERBICIDES FOR CRABGRASS CONTROL IN TURF

IN THE TRANSITION ZONE 

University of Maryland (Dernoeden)
Although decades of research have shown 
that preemergence herbicides effectively 
control crabgrass, confusion exists re­
garding effective initial and sequential 
application rates, as well as efficacy of 
reduced rates for season-long control in 
the transition zone. Trials in 1980 in­
cluded recommended rates of benefin 25G, 
bensulide 4EC, DCPA 75W, oxadiazon 2G, 
and siduron 50W. A single application of 
bensulide and oxadiazon and a sequential 
rate of DCPA provided an acceptable level 
of control. Reduced rates applied in 1981 
were efficacious for oxadiazon ( onehalf 
rate) and for bensulide used in sequential 
dosages (onehalf rate ). In 1982 sequential, 
recommended dosages of benefin and DCPA 
and reduced rates of oxadiazon gave excel­
lent control. Oxadiazon provided best, 
consistent control as rates were reduced. 
Single applications of benefin,DCPA 
and siduron were ineffective all three 
years of the study.

POSTEMERGENCE HERBICIDE CONTROL OF 
CRABGRASS IN THREE TURF SPECIES

University of Arkansas (Miller,King)

MSMA is the main herbicide used for post­
emergence control of crabgrass. Repeat 
applications are required and temporany 
injury to the turf is common. Tall fescue, 
creeping bentgrass and common bermudagrass 
turf were used to compare MSMA with DOWCO 
453, sethoxydim and fluazifop-butyl. Single 
applications and repeat treatment at 7 to 
10 day intervals were made. All treatments 
caused unacceptable injury to creeping 
bentgrass and tall fescue. All compounds 
caused some injury to common bermudagrass. 
Degree of discoloration varied with treat­
ment and rate. Single applications of 
DOWCO 453 gave best comination of crabgrass 
control with acceptable bermudagrass injury.

INFLUENCE OF ETHOFUMESATE AND OXADIAZON 

ON SPRING RECOVERY OF BERMUDAGRASS

Auburn University (Dickins)

GROWTH REGULATION AND WEED CONTROL

Nine studies focused on the use of chem­
icals as growth regulators, including 
retardation and herbicial properties. One 
paper concerned with allelopathy is also 
included in this section. Control of 
growth rate by use of applied or natural 
chemical components of the grass has wide 
applicability. Range of growth control 
varies from retardation that decreases 
mowing to stimulation that improves vigor 
to stimulation or retardation that selec­
tively eliminates other species.

Ethofumesate is used to control annual 
bluegrass in bermudagrass overseeded with 
ryegrass. Late winter applications have 
caused some slowness of spring recovery of 
the bermudagrass. Oxadiazon applied during 
the spring for control of goosegrass can 
also injure bermudagrass. Tests indicated 
no interaction between the two herbicides. 
Ethofumesate applied in late February 
followed by an application of oxadizon in 
April had no effect on spring recovery of 
bermudagrass. Rate of application for both 
herbicides was 0.75 ounce per 1000 square 
feet (2.2 Kg/ha). Early April applications 
of oxadiazon caused slight initial thinning 
of the perennial ryegrass but recovery 
was rapid.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 

CONTINUED

EFFECT OF ETHOFUMESATE ON ANNUAL 
BLUEGRASS CONTROL IN OVERSEEDED

BERMUDAGRASS TURF 

University of Georgia (Johnson)

Dates and frequency of ethofumesate treat­
ments for annual bluegrass control in 
bermudagrass were studied in a two year 
test. Bermudagrass plots were either not 
overseeded or overseeded with Medalist VI 
perennial ryegrass. An application rate 
of 1.1 Kg/ha (0.37 ounce per 1000 square 
feet) was used. Treatments at the time 
of overseeding in October plus one month 
later effectively controlled annual blue­
grass. Treating in February and March were 
not effective. Some quality reduction of 
turf was noted. October and November 
treatments did not delay early growth of 
non-overseeded bermudagrass the following 
spring. In most instances the growth of 
Tifway was affected less than Tifgreen,
 Tifdwarf or Ormand. The transition of 
overseeded turf back to Tifway bermuda­
grass in the spring was not severly affected 
by ethofumesate.

CHEMICAL SUPPRESSION OF SEED PRODUCTION 
AND SHOOT GROWTH ON ANNUAL BLUEGRASS

Cornell University 

(Petrovic, White, Kligerman)

The effects of several chemicals on seed- 
head and shoot growth suppression and 
visual quality of annual bluegrass were 
examined. When treated in April, (before 
first mowing) or May (first seedhead), 
mefluidide (Embark 2-S) plus wetting agent 
suppressed total seed production 79 and 
30 percent respectively. Both materials 
were more effective in suppressing seed 
production halfway through the flowering 
period (92 and 42 percent respectively) 
indicating a need to retreat in late May. 
Mefluidide reduced total clipping yields 
38 percent and adversely affected quality 
for the first ten weeks. Ethephon (Ethrel) 
had no effect.

TURFGRASS SPECIES

GROWTH RETARDANT EFFECTS ON THREE 
Iowa State University (Christians,Nau)
Embark and ethrel were compared with an 
experimental BASF Wyandotte Corp material 
on Baron Kentucky bluegrass, Kentucky 31 
fescue and Reliant hard fescue to evaluate 
variation in growth response. Clipping 
weight was reduced for all three species 
by each of the growth retardants, except 
for an increase in tall fescue in response 
to ethrel. Ethrel applied at 2.24 Kg/ha 
(three quarters ounce per 1000 square feet) 
reduced growth of Baron without seriously 
affecting quality. It stimulated root and 
rhizome development. Variations occurred 
among species in turf quality.

EFFECT OF GROWTH RETARDANTS, TRAFFIC, 
GIBBERELLIC ACID AND NITROGEN ON FINE 
The Pennsylvania State University 

FESCUE

(Breuninger,Watschke)

Turf areas treated with growth retardants 
may be predisposed to traffic injury be­
cause of reduced recuperative potential. 
Chemicals or cultural practices which 
counteract growth suppression would be 
beneficial in promoting stress recovery.
The influence of gibberellic acid and 
nitrogen on the stress recovery of fine 
fescue treated with growth retardants was 
investigated. Following treatments with 
growth retardants, a predominantly fine 
fescue golf course rough was subjected to 
concentrated golf cart traffic for two 
weeks. Then treatments to stimulate growth 
were made (June). Gibberellic acid and 
gibberellic acid plus nitrogen provided 
the greatest stimulation of foliar growth. 
Nitrogen and gibberellic acid plus nitro­
gen improved turf appearance. Gibberellic 
acid response was not sustained after 
mowing. Nitrogen response persisted. New 
growth retardants may have an overriding 
effect on the gibberellic acid.

ALLELOPATHY AMONG ANNUAL BLUEGRASS, 
KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS AND PERENNIAL 
RYEGRASS SEEDLINGS AND MATURE FIELD
The Pennsylvania State University 

TURFS

(Brede,Duich)

Researchers have implicated allelopathy in 
the interaction of cool-season turfgrasses, 
annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass and 
perennial ryegrass. The effect of one 
plant on the growth of another as a result 
of the transfer of a chemical agent was 
evaluated by means of a series of labora­
tory germination tests. Plant interactions 
occurred in the field. Thirty seven of 
the eighty four different records taken 
on the parameters of the field turf indi­
cated allelopathic effects on one or more 
of the three receptor species. Approxi­
mately half of the effects were beneficial 
to the receptor, the rest were detrimental. 
For example, Kentucky bluegrass seed germ­
ination was lower in the presence of annual 
bluegrass seedlings. Seedling root and 
shoot growth of all three species was 
affected by the nearby seedlings of the 
other species.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 

Continued

THE EFFECT OF NITROGEN FERTILITY AND 
MOWING ON THE QUALITY OF KENTUCKY 
BLUEGRASS PREVIOUSLY TREATED WITH
The Pennsylvania State University

GROWTH RETARDANTS 

(Watschke)

Growth retardants applied to turf cause 
injury of varied intensity and duration. 
Properly timed applications of nitrogen 
fertilizer and trim mowing help to reduce 
this injury. Several growth retardants 
were applied to a natural Kentucky blue­
grass turf. Nitrogen fertilizer and an 
initial trim mowing were scheduled seven 
weeks after use of the growth retardants. 
All growth retardants reduced growth. App­
lication of nitrogen and trim mowing im­
proved the color of all treated turf, but 
reduced the duration of chemical growth 
suppression.

DISEASE CONTROL

Four research reports considered turfgrass 
entomology and pathology. Although insect 
and disease proneness of turfgrasses have 
been researched for many years, new methods 
of control and improved understanding of 
cultural practices that promote resistance 
are reported each year.

RESPONSE OF KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS CULTIVARS 

TO STEM RUST

University of Nebraska 

(Watkins, Shearman, Riordan)

Stem rust prevalence and rate of rust de­
velopment were recorded for eighty four 
Kentucky bluegrass cultivars and experi­
mental lines in the National Bluegrass 
Test. Twenty two entries were severely 
rusted, having a rating of 7.5 (75 % of 
leaves infected) or greater. Stem rust 
prevalence on only two entries was less 
than 2.5 (25 % of leaves infected). The 
experimental mean for all entries was 
5.9. None of the entries were free of 
stem rust. The rate of rust development 
differed among entires. For most entries 
stem rust prevalence increased from early 
August to early September and then began 
to decline.

THE COMBINED EFFECTS OF STRIPE SMUT OR 
FLAG SMUT AND OSMOTICALLY-INDUCED WATER 
STRESS ON VARIOUS GROWTH PARAMETERS OF

'MERION' KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS 

Iowa State University (Nus,Hodges)

Vegetatively propagated Merion bluegrass 
plants were used to test the combined ef­
fects of systemic infection by stripe or 
flag smut and osmotically-induced water 
stress on various growth parameters of the 
host. Differences were found between flag 
smutted, stripe smutted and healthy plants 
over the entire range of water stress 
treatments. Growth parameters measured 
were total plant weight, leaf weight, leaf 
length, leaf width, leaf area, number of 
rhizomes, total rhizome weight, root weight, 
number of tillers, total tiller weight, 
percentage of total weight partitioned 
into rhizomes and tillers, respectively 
and root/shoot ratios.

EFFECT OF CARRIER, RATE AND TIMING OF 
NITROGEN FERTILIZATION AND FUNGICIDE 
APPLICATION ON ANTHRACNOSE DEVELOPMENT

OF ANNUAL BLUEGRASS 
Ohio State University 

Michigan State University and
(Danneberger,Vargas,Rieke,Street)

Anthracnose is a serious disease of annual 
bluegrass golf course fairways in the 
northern and Pacific-northwestern United 
States. Nitrogen fertilization and fungi­
cide usage were evaluated for management 
of this disease. Fungicide, Bayleton, 
treatments provided the most effective 
control. With use of this material, infec­
tion was reduced from 29.6 and 30.6 to 
1.9 and 1.7 percent of the total area in 
1980 and 1981 respectively. IBDU, sulfur- 
coated urea and urea had no effect on 
anthracnose development. Moderate nitro­
gen levels 1.46 Kg/are/year (2 pounds per 
1000 square feet ) were associated with 
less disease. Nitrogen applied on a  
schedule of June, July, August, September 
and November resulted in less disease than 
nitrogen scheduled in April, May, June, 
August and September.

OF WHITE GRUBS

INFLUENCE OF TURF ON HABITAT PREFERENCE 
Texas A amd M University (Engelke,Crocker)
Tifgreen and common bermudagrass, Raleigh 
St Augustinegrass and Kentucky 31 tall 
fescue were established in the greenhouse 
for use in evaluating habitat preference 
of white'grubs. In mid April the sod was 
transplanted to field sites. The field 
plots were available for natural oviposi- 
tion by adult beetles throughout the 
entire reproductive season. Assessment 
of habitat preference as influenced by 
irrigation variables is being related to 
insect species, and number of larvae 
present in each treatment, as well as their 
position and degree of destruction evident 
in each plot.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS 
CONTINUED

SOIL MODIFICATION

Three presentations considered the matter 
of soil modification in relation to turf- 
grass establishment and culture. Much of 
the success enjoyed in turfgrass manage­
ment is related to proper preparation and 
construction of the seed bed and root 
environment. These research reports are 
directed towards improving soil conditions 
for turfgrasses.

SENSITIVITY OF SAND, SOIL AND PEAT 
PROPERTIES ON THE RESULTING TEXTURE
University of Minnesota (Taylor,Blake)

OF MODIFIED SOIL MIXTURES 

Mixing of sand, soil and peat by a contrac­
tor so as to provide a specific texture 
depends on calculations based on the anal­
ysis of the individual components. Varia­
tions in mixing volumes of components, 
texture of the soil, amount of sand in the 
peat and bulk densities of components have 
an effect on the sand content in the re­
sulting mixture. The volume ratio of 
materials needed to obtain a specified 
sand content varied considerably depending 
on the texture of soil used in the mixture. 
For example, to achieve a sand content of 
ninety percent by weight in the mixture, 
a clay loam soil required a sand-soil- 
peat volume ratio of 8-1-1. If a sandy 
loam soil was used, the sand-soil- 
peat volume ratio would be 3-1-1. In 
comparison to sand content of the soil 
and variation of the sand-soil-peat ratio, 
variables such as bulk densities of com­
ponents and sand content of the peat had 
only minor effects on the sand content of 
the resulting mixture.

RATE OF LATERAL WATER MOVEMENT THROUGH 

A DRAINAGE BLANKET

Independent Iowa Research (Calhoun)

Drainage blankets are often used beneath 
the growth medium. The conventional two 
layer blanket is quite difficult and rela­
tively expensive to construct. A single 
layer system of very coarse sand was de­
veloped as a satisfactory drainage blan­
ket. Using concrete sand, water could 
be removed at approximately one inch (2.5 
cm) per hour over a distance of nine feet 
ten inches (300 cm). Although this would 
not be adequate for heavy rainfalls, it 
would provide satisfactory drainage under 
most conditions.

CLINOPTILOLITIC ZEOLITE: A NEW MEDIUM 

FOR TURFGRASS GROWTH 
University of Arizona

(Pepper,Ferguson,Kneebone)

Clinoptilolitic zeolite is a natural min­
eral available as sand sized particles, 
yet possessing cation exchange capacities 
in excess of 120 meg/100g. Growth of Tif- 
green bermudagrass was excellent on washed 
mortar sand amended with ten percent zeo­
lite. Zeolite reduced leaching losses of 
both ammonia and nitrate nitrogen. The 
water holding capacity of sand increased 
with increasing zeolite amendment. Germ­
ination and establishment of Penncross 
creeping bentgrass was superior on zeolite 
amended sand as compared with sand alone. 
Biomass production and nitrogen use effi­
ciency increased with zeolite. A delay 
in nitrification in the presence of zeo­
lite brings about slow release character­
istics. Turfgrass quality was at a maxi­
mum on five or ten percent zeolite amended 
sands, depending on the season and the 
nitrogen times zeolite interaction. Zeo­
lite has physical and chemical character­
istics which may improve turfgrass growth 
under minimum energy inputs. Its high 
sodium content must be taken into consider- 
ation in use specifications.

URBAN WATER CONSERVATION

HOME LAWN SPRINKLER EVALUATION FOR 
Texas A and M University (Gerst,Wendt)
Water loss from lawn sprinklers during a 
twenty four hour period was determined. 
Rotating, traveling, buried head, impact, 
ring and oscillating sprinklers were com­
pared. The evaporation losses for sprink­
lers were greater than the evaporative 
demand of the atmosphere. This suggested 
that much of the water applied by sprink­
lers is rapidly lost from the area of 
application. All sprinklers lost less 
water to evaporation at night than during 
the day. Sprinklers with the lowest rates 
of application had the highest percent loss 
It is important to obtain a sprinkler that 
will apply water at the higest rate possi­
ble without having run off losses, because 
evaporation losses are related to the time 
that is required to apply a given amount 
of water.

LUXURY WATER USE BY BERMUDAGRASS 

University of Arizona (Kneebone,Pepper)
Three high irrigation levels of treated 
sewage effluent were applied to a 2.5 cm 
mowed (1 inch) bermudagrass turf. The 
bermudagrass was overseeded with annual 
ryegrass in the winter. Water use by the 
turf increased with water applied and with 
the fineness of soil texture. Annual use 
varied from 1279 liters/m2 (31,397 gallons 
per 1000 square feet) to 2937 liters/m2 
(75,832 gallons per 1000 square feet).
These were equal to 60 and 134 percent of 
Class A pan evaporation losses for the year

RELATING IRRIGATION, SOILS AND 

FERTILIZER TO TURFGRASS GROWING PROBLEMS

MacDill AFB (Lewis)

An experiment was conducted to evaluate 
turfgrass quality differences with varia­
tions in soil, water and fertilization. 
Tifgreen bermudagrass, Pensacola bahiagrass 
and St Augustinegrass were grown on loamy 
sand, sandy loam, loam, silty clay loam 
and peat. Soil pH varied from 5.2 to 6.9 
and the natural rainfall amounted to 24 
inches during the 180 day test. A 1-1-1 
fertilizer was applied weekly with an appli- 
cation rate of from one half pound to four 
pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square feet 
per week. The bahiagrass grew well with 
only natural rainfall. St Augustine and 
bermuda grasses required supplemental 
irrigation. Fertilization produced turf 
with more stable visual ratings.

THRESHING THE JOURNALS

WATER USE AND CONSERVATION

Five research reports presented the latest 
information on turfgrass water use and con­
servation. With as much as fifty percent 
of urban water usage going for irrigation, 
it is important to know lawngrass require­
ments. Radiant energy, vapor pressure, 
temperature, wind and soil moisture supply 
are all important in loss of moisture from 
both soil and turf. Water use per day 
varies considerably from a half inch per 
day (12 mm) to one seventh of an inch per 
day (4 mm).

ESTIMATING TURFGRASS EVAPOTRANSPIRATION 
WITH TENSIOMETER CONTROLLED IRRIGATION
University of Florida (Augustin,Snyder)
Evapotranspiration may be determined uti­
lizing a tensiometer controlled irrigation 
system. Plots irrigated with four, quar­
ter cycle spray heads were tied in with 
tensiometers attached to electric solenoid 
valves that controlled irrigation based on 
soil moisture tension. The amount and 
frequency of irrigation was read from a 
separate elapsed time indicator for each 
valve. Turgrass evapotranspiration was 
then estimated from the irrigation rate. 
This procedure is only effective during 
periods without rain, and a minimum of two 
tensiometer controlled irrigations are 
necessary to estimate evapotranspiration.

CANOPY TEMPERATURE BY THERMAL INFRARED 
MEASUREMENT FOR EVALUATING TURFGRASS

WATER AND ENERGY BUDGETS 

USDA-ARS (Feldhake)

The relation between turfgrass canopy temp­
erature and evapotranspiration was evalu­
ated under Colorado conditions. Canopy 
temperature had a linear response for eva­
potranspiration reductions up to fifty per­
cent under both water limiting and energy 
limiting conditions. Canopy temperature 
proved to be a reliable indicator of re­
lative water use under a variety of typical 
urban lawn conditions. The influence of 
percent live canopy biomass, border effects, 
mowing height and albedo on canopy temp­
erature were measured. In general, the 
higher grass was clipped, the more water 
used. A drop in temperature occurred when 
a change from high cut to low or from low 
cut to high was initiated. There was a 
lack of thermal conductivity into the 
ground. Warm season grasses used twenty 
three percent less water than cool season 
grasses. This may be related to stomatal 
characteristics.

THE LAWN INSTITUTE

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Pleasant Hill TN 
Permit No. 3

Lawn Institute Harvests is published four 
times a year by The Better Lawn and Turf 
Institute. The headquarters office address 
is P.O.Box 108, Pleasant Hill, Tennessee 
38578-0108. Phone: 615/277-3722. Inquiries 
concerning all aspects of this publication 
may be addressed to the headquarters office.
The Better Lawn and Turf Institute is 
incorporated as a nonprofit business league 
formed exclusively for educational and 
research purposes concerned with agronomic, 
horticultural and landscape concepts.

Lawn Institute Harvests serves as a 
quarterly newsletter for members. It also 
provides a means of communication between 
Turfgrass Seed and Allied Industries and 
other organizations and individuals with 
research and educational interests.

Editor:  Eliot C Roberts, PhD
Associate Editor: Beverly C Roberts, MA 
Printer:  Cookeville Dispatch (Tennessee)