BETTER LAWN

PUBLISHED PERIODICALLY BY THE NEWS BUREAU OF 

BETTER LAWN & TURF INSTITUTE-

Vol. 7, No. 2

Harvests

SUITE 818 - 1016 BALTIMORE BUILDING 

KANSAS CITY 5. MISSOURI
August 1, 1960

INSTITUTE REVIEWS PROGRAM AT TWO ANNUAL MEETINGS

Director Schery and A. V. Mura of Bozell & Jacobs presented a thorough­
going review of Institute activities for the past year at the B.L.T.I, Annual 
Meeting in Kansas City on May 21, and for Associate members and their 
guests during the A.S.T.A, annual meeting June 14. In both instances there 
were showings of the cooperative Encyclopaedia Britannica television 
featurettes.

An unusually large attendance at the Annual Meeting heard how the Institute 
has expanded its activities in manifold ways, and is becoming widely sought 
as a source of turfgrass information nationally.

This fiscal year the customary three illustrated press kits were mailed to 
over 600 editors. Special mailings to select groups rounded out the direct 
mail program. Other services included answering inquiries, presentations 
at conventions and scientific meetings, and distribution of reprints, seed 
samples, photographs, statistical information, etc.

Television and radio activities included the Encyclopaedia Britannica lawn 
series (four releases) plus personal appearances by the Director on a number 
of programs. The Institute movie continued to receive widespread showings, 
totaling 227 television appearances to an estimated audience of nearly 
7,000,000, plus nearly 800 private showings to groups such as garden clubs 
and civic organizations.

Visits to research centers have continued, and Dr. Schery has participated 
in various turfgrass conferences.

The Institute continues providing lawn stories to a wide array of gardening 
publications -- and these receive sizeable consumer exposure. In addition, 
the Director has been called upon to cover the subject in numerous lawn 
books and pamphlets. A list of these publications and other undertakings, 
given in the 5-page mimeograph "Outline of Lawn Institute Undertakings", 
was mailed to members.

The Institute has continued cooperative activities with numerous industrial 
and commercial concerns, and has undertaken research related to the climax 
testing of bluegrass and seed germination. Dr. Schery attended many national 
scientific conventions, as well as highway and park association meetings, in 
behalf of the Institute.

The Kansas City office has kept its finger on the public pulse, accumulating 
clippings relating to Institute activities, and issuing publicity on personal 
appearances of the Director. It is quite encouraging that over 2500 column 
inches of news story have appeared on Kentucky bluegrass and Oregon fescue 
in the nation’s press, well over twice what it was the year previously. Nearly 
12, 000 column inches of information on lawn grasses in general have been 
caught by the clipping service.

Cartoon items went to 2080 newspapers, and found excellent reception. A 
previous Harvests pictured some of the cartoons used, such as "Crabgrass 
Cries for You", which appeared in 201 newspapers.

Climax testing was reviewed briefly at the annual meeting, and was the chief 
item of the Lawn & Turfgrass Division program at the A.S.T.A. June meet­
ing. A unanimous resolution calling for further study and consideration of 
the industry’s position resulted,

Mr. Pommer of St. Louis, reported for the Associate members at the annual 
meeting. Bob indicated that in spite of an expanded Harvests, he had had no 
idea how extensive the Institute program was, until reviewed all in one piece.
It was his suggestion that the same review be given for Associate members 
at the A.S.T.A, convention. His suggestion was acted upon, and a pleasant 
"open house" was held Tuesday afternoon at the Muehlebach Hotel during the 
A.S.T.A, meeting.

Joe Peppard reported for the nominating committee the following slate, which 
was unanimously elected: W. T. Gassner, President; Colonel Ed Spears, 
Vice-President; Roy Edwards, Jr., Secretary; Art Berry, Ed Mangelsdorf, 
Lud Hagen, Clayton Fox, Don Jones, Bob Kellogg, members of the Board.
Mr. Lud Hagen of the Oregon Fescue Commission offered the Commission’s 
viewpoint, and the formal meeting closed with a report of the membership 
committee recommending acceptance of additional firms or associations not 
currently participating in the Institute.

"POPULAR SCIENCE" LAUDS DR. SCHERY’S ARTICLE

A letter from Herschel Shohan of "Popular Science" magazine emphasizes 
the importance of Dr, Schery’s article to the publication’s tremendous circu­
lation. This story, "Lawn Keeping: The Lazy Man’s Version, " appeared in 
the June issue of the publication. Apparently the publication’s editors are 
impressed with the quality of Dr. Schery’s material and the stature of the 
Institute itself -- since this is the second article by Dr. Schery published this 
year by "Popular Science." The other story appeared in the April, 1960 issue.

Mr. Shohan writes:

"I am writing to call your attention to a feature article in the June issue 
of "Popular Science" entitled "Lawn Keeping: The Lazy Man’s Version", 
by Dr. Robert W. Schery, Director of The Lawn Institute. In it our 
more than one-million readers will discover how they can enjoy a rich 
looking and well kept lawn with more ease than they ever thought possible. 
Dr. Schery’s article features a great many widely held popular delusions 
about the rigors of lawn keeping. For instance, Dr, Schery discourages 
unnecessary raking of grass clippings on a newly mowed lawn, unneces­
sary watering of the lawn even during dry periods and unnecessary 
fertilizing and seeding.

"I feel certain that this feature should be read by every home owner 
and by the members of your institute. To further understanding on 
proper lawn care I would like to suggest that you give the story a promi­
nent build-up in your news bulletins."

CEMETERY PUBLICATION TO CARRY DR. SCHERY’S STORY

Plans have been completed for "Concept" magazine to carry a specially 
prepared story by Dr. Schery. This article, tentatively titled, "The Prestige 
of Quality Turf, " is to appear in the August issue of the publication. "Concept" 
magazine is published monthly by the Interment Association of America, and 
is sent to nearly 4,000 cemeteries and local interment associations.

STORY BY SCHERY IN NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN JOURNAL

The May-June, 1960, issue of the "New York Botanical Garden Journal" 
features an illustrated three-page story by-lined by Dr. Schery. This article, 
entitled, "Weeding Lawns, " and obviously dealing with weed control, incorpo­
rates prominent mention of bluegrass and red fescues.

"For the northern two-thirds of the nation, the best lawn guardians, " 
writes Dr. Schery, "are the bluegrasses and red fescue varieties, 
since they flourish in many situations."

"FLOWER GROWER" MAGAZINE QUOTES INSTITUTE DIRECTOR

The August, 1960 issue of "Flower Grower", a publication with over 365, 000 
circulation, in a feature story, quotes the following from Dr. Schery’s appear­
ance before the Men’s Garden Clubs of America June Convention:

"At the one extreme it (lawn watering) is absolutely essential for survival 
or for greenness during dry periods; at the other extreme it causes more 
harm than it does good. The watering schedule should conform to the

climate and soil and to the taste of the homeowner — reflecting willing­
ness to bear the expense or unwillingness to put up with the brown grass. 
Grasses once managed intensively may die if watering suddenly ceases, 
but well-established stands of the sturdier lawn species take drought well."

INSTITUTE STORY FEATURED IN "BETTER BUILDING MAINTENANCE''

The over 51,000 readers of the influential "Better Building Maintenance" will 
see another story credited to Dr. Schery, Director, The Lawn Institute, in 
the July, 1960, issue. This publication reaches maintenance people in com­
mercial, industrial and factory buildings, institutions, hotels, restaurants, 
schools and military installations.

In this story, Dr. Schery states, "Upright grasses include the most noteworthy 
of all lawn species -- Kentucky bluegrass and its companion fine fescues. To­
gether they make first rate lawns needing a minimum of care." The article 
is entitled, "Modern Power Mowers."

U. S. OFFICE OF EDUCATION RECOMMENDS INSTITUTE

A letter from John Cameron, Chief of the School Housing Section, Department 
of Health, Education and Welfare, Washington, D. C., puts a number of 
questions to Dr. Schery. Mr. Cameron comments that the U.S. Office of 
Education has suggested that the Lawn Institute is the place to come to find 
information on a number of subjects related especially to "compilations of 
expert opinion and reports of approved practices."

This would seem to be just another example of the growing acceptance and 
prestige of the Institute as an authoritative turfgrass organization, and em­
phasizes the need for the Institute to carry on at least some minimal research. 

"AMERICAN HOME" GIVES PROMINENCE TO SCHERY-INSTITUTE STORY

The August issue of "American Home" magazine carries a two-page story, 
entitled, "Start Your New Lawn This Month, " written especially for the publi­
cation by Dr. Schery. Ample black and white photos and a lower half page 
four-color spread illustrate the story appearing in this popular consumer 
magazine. Upwards of 3, 664, 921 readers will see this Lawn Institute pub­
licity material.

LAWN INSTITUTE FEATURED IN "FLOWER & GARDEN" MAGAZINE

Another Lawn Institute-originated story is receiving tremendous consumer 
exposure in the August issue of "Flower & Garden" magazine. The three- 
page article, reaching nearly 450, 000 readers of the publication, was prepared 
by Dr. Schery and is entitled, "Lawn Time Coming Up!"

"TREES" MAGAZINE REQUESTS STORY BY DR. SCHERY

June Faulds of "Trees" magazine has written requesting a story by Dr. Schery 
for appearance in its August issue. She says,

"We would be very proud to publish a story by a lawn expert such as 
you ... can promise front cover billing and a good space presentation 
... two or three full pages ..."

Reprints will be available shortly.

REPORTS ON KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS IN "AGRONOMY JOURNAL"

The following quotes are from the May, 1960, "Agronomy Journal, " in an 
article entitled, "Utilization of Fertilizer by Six Pasture Grasses, " by 
Robert W. Duell. The work was done at New Jersey and reflects conditions 
on the Eastern Seaboard.

"Brown and Munsell reported that when Kentucky bluegrass was lawn- 
mowed frequently, or when mowed for hay 2 to 4 times a year, it was 
practically equal to orchardgrass, Rhode Island bentgrass, and timothy 
in quality and quantity." Four year average yields were not much less 
than tall fescue or orchardgrass, and were better than bromegrass 
and timothy.

"it is interesting to note that only Kentucky bluegrass and orchardgrass 
produced a greater response (of fertilizer) to the second increment than 
to the first.

"Contrary to the customary concept of the performance of forage grass 
species, Kentucky bluegrass was more productive than orchardgrass 
at all fertilizer rates of this experiment in 2 years out of 3.

"Interactions between grasses and fertilizer rates indicated that grasses 
such as orchardgrass and Kentucky bluegrass were much more responsive 
than were reed canarygrass and bromegrass. Other observations in favor 
of Kentucky bluegrass as a pasture species are that its yield was gener­
ally lower than most commonly recommended grasses in the first cutting 
taken when pasturage is usually in surplus, and its yield was superior in 
later cuttings when pasturage is generally deficient."

TRADE PUBLICATION CALLS ON SCHERY

Frank Abrahamson of the "Garden Supply Merchandiser" has asked Dr. Schery 
to prepare a tabulation of lawn seed for the forthcoming Green Book.

"POPULAR SCIENCE" STORY ENLIGHTENS

J. N, Gadel, Consulting Physicist of East Orange, New Jersey, writes the 
following about Dr, Schery’s article in the June issue of "Popular Science":

"Needless to say, I have lawn problems. After going to unusual lengths 
to obtain information and advice, I have come to the tentative conclusion 
that lawn culture is a black art whose secrets cannot be transmitted by 
scientific and verbal means. Your article generated a glimmer of hope 
that this is not a universal fact."

EDITOR PLUGS QUALITY SEED

Perhaps as a result of the consistent supply of promotion material that has 
been provided him by the Lawn Institute, Edwin Steffek, Horticultural Editor 
of "Popular Gardening" magazine, has developed a lawn story declaiming 
against cheap seed. This article appears in the August issue of the publication, 
which has a circulation of 281, 694. Mr. Steffek states:

"First, make sure you buy good quality seed - even for small patches.
Cheap seed is cheap in quality, too, and in the final analysis, proves 
more expensive than good seed. For instance, perennial ryegrass, 
which is one ingredient of a cheap mixture, has only 300, 000 seeds to 
the pound, whereas good grasses like Astoria bent, Kentucky bluegrasses, 
and Chewings fescue normally run 5, 500, 000; 2,250,000; and 615,000 
seeds to the pound, respectively. Furthermore, ryegrasses make big 
clumps and are short-lived, leaving big empty patches in the lawn where 
crabgrass can take over. Some grasses, like timothy, are hay and 
pasture grasses and have no place in a lawn mixture at all."

3M SEEKS LAWN INSTITUTE COUNSEL

Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing (3M) has requested the Lawn Institute’s 
evaluation and judgment on a new soil-holding material they have developed.
This is a loose mesh of fibers, which is said to disintegrate upon wetting, 
the fibers binding individual soil particles. The application is supposedly 
useful to hold soils on slopes, with any type of soil. The first wetting assures 
its adherence to whatever the surface might be. Following a seeding with 
good seed, the soil surface should be protected against any wash-out. Perhaps 
there may also be a slight mulching affect, encouraging slightly faster sprouting.

Approximately 20,000 square feet of the material has been sent to Institute 
headquarters at Marysville for research purposes.

LETTER FROM GREECE RELATES POA HISTORY...

An inquiry from Dr. Schery about the history of Poa pratensis in Greece to 
Basil G. Christidis, Director of the Cotton Research Institute, of Sindos, 
Greece, brought this informative reply:

"With reference to your letter of April 21, regarding Poa pratensis in 
Greece, I am glad to give you the following information:

"Quite a number of ancient Greek authors refer to Poa (Greek 
But as clearly defined by Theophrastus, the father of Botany (300 B.C.), 
’Poa is a plant coming up from the root with its leaves; it has no main 
stem, and the seed is borne on the stem, such as wheat and pot-herbs’ 
(Enquiry into Plants, I, III, 1). Accordingly, by Poa the ancients meant 
not only all grasses, but also various pot-herbs as well. Zenophon 
(380 B.C.) states that: ’Poa turned up in the spring is long enough to 
serve as manure, but, not having shed seed, it will not grow’
(Oeconomicus, XVI, 12). Similar meaning is given to Poa by Pausanias 
(170 A.D.), who in his Description of Greece states: ’Upon the banks of 
the lake grow paos and rushes’ (II, xxxvii 6). In another part he writes: 
’The dwellers around Helicon say that all the poas foo and roots growing 
on the mountain are not at all poisonous to men’ (IX, xxviii, 1). I don’t 
know if Eubulus or Eurypides mention (I shall try to find out), but any 
reference by them, as poets, must be incidental.

"I am sorry that there does not seem to be any specific information about 
Poa pratensis in pre-Christian times. At present there are 21 species 
of Poa found in Greece. Poa pratensis is common in various parts of 
the country and there is no reason why this grass should not be widespread 
in ancient Greece.

"Hoping that the above information might be useful to you."

INTERNATIONAL PAPER REPORTS WOOD PULP MULCH

Bob Hampton, of International Paper, called Dr. Schery from New York, say­
ing that they are definitely progressing with the marketing of a wood pulp 
mulch material, sold under the name of Turfiber. This is especially for 
highways, industrial sites, and large scale grounds which merit use of the 
specialized dispensing equipment needed to lay the mulch. The equipment 
is an adapted Finn Hydro-seeder. Several demonstration mulching projects 
were contemplated through the season, one in New York on June 1, another 
in Michigan on June 6, and several along the East Coast. There was such an 
application made at Cartersville, Georgia, just North of Athens. Still another 
will be available for examination on the tour of the Ohio Short Course (for 
highway landscape architects) this October.

At the same time the Institute has received some literature on and a sample 
of Volcanol, being marketed by Also Oil & Chemical Corporation. Apparently 
this is some resinous material said to be of benefit as a mulch. Dr. Schery 
will try out the product on autumn seedings.

MERION’S TENDENCY TOWARD STRIPE SMUT...

In a paper entitled, "Susceptibility of Merion Bluegrass to Stripe Smut, " given 
at the Stockbridge 1960 Turfgrass Conference by Donald W. Bevilacqua, he 
states:

"Infected bluegrass plants are most readily observed during cool weather 
in spring and fall. They are difficult to find during hot, dry weather be­
cause diseased leaves wither prematurely and infected plants die; they 
are also difficult to find after mowing because of their growth. Since 
stripe smut infection is systemic, few plants recover from the disease,

"For all practical purposes, varieties and selections other than Merion, 
Common and Troy Kentucky bluegrasses can be considered moderately 
to highly resistent to the Stripe Smut races.

"The evident susceptibility of Merion bluegrass to Stripe Smut suggests 
that this variety may be seriously damaged in areas and under conditions 
where the fungus occurs. Since they are infected systemically they re­
main diseased until they die."

REPORT ON CONSUMER PROTECTION IN ENGLAND

The following is a quote from "Parks & Sports Grounds" of February, 1960 — 
a contrast in protection of the public, comparing the system of lawn seed sales 
in this country with that in England.

"A report well worth study comes from the Consumer Advisory Council.
It discusses the subject of lawn seed quality. The C.A.C. wrote to 70 
firms asking for ’a good fine mixture of lawn seed’. The orders enclosed 
a 2s. 6d. postal order with an indication that further money would be sent.

"Packets of seed sent in reply to the request were tested by the National 
Institute of Agricultural Botany. Of the 70 samples, seed from five firms 
was described as ’excellent’; 23 were described as ’fine’; 20 were de­
scribed ’moderate’ and 23 were described as ’rough with a high percentage 
of rye grass’.

"Whilst readers of this journal are hardly likely to order ’a good fine 
mixture of lawn seed’ and are unlikely to be influenced by the report, they, 
ourselves and all the reputable firms in the seed trade will welcome this 
Report for the simple reason that it discloses a somewhat unsatisfactory 
state of affairs.

"Whilst some firms clearly indicated the contents of their packet, other 
firms gave no indication. One sample contained 14.7% of useless matter, 
weeds and chaff, whilst in one instance there was a partial germination 
of only 5%. These figures are quite inexcusable and clearly indicate that 
the National Association of Corn and Agricultural Merchants must give 
the subject some consideration if only to protect those who are unable to 
protect themselves.

"The C.A.C. advises the public to request an analysis of lawn seed from 
the merchant, together with germination and date on which it was tested.
A committee presently discussing seed transactions would be well advised 
to heed this report."

N.P.F.I. IMPRESSED WITH INSTITUTE ACTIVITIES

The following is quoted from a letter from Dr. W. H. Garman of the National 
Plant Food Institute, to Dr. Schery:

"Personally I feel that you and your organization could be a great deal 
of help in our intensified program directed toward the non-farm market, 
and I am hopeful that we can work out an informal arrangement so that we 
can cooperate on matters of mutual interest.

"Thanks for sending the list of activities of your Institute. What you are 
doing certainly is impressive. Actually I do not see how you do so much 
and cover so much ground.

"Sometime this fall if you are in Washington, I hope you can arrange your 
schedule so that you can spend a couple of hours or a half day with us."

BULLETIN ENCOURAGES CONSUMER "EXPERIMENTATION"

An article appearing in the June issue of the Missouri Botanical Garden Bulle­
tin, by George Van Schaack, entitled "The Grasses, " states:

"Some authorities have considered tillering, which among cultivated plants 
is restricted to grasses, to be more important to the dominance of grass 
than all other characters peculiar to this group combined. Other grasses 
branch at the base to form underground stems, or rhizomes, thus spread­
ing out to form turf. Bluegrass is a typical example, and it is this turf 
forming tendency which makes it so desirable as a lawn grass, and, more 
importantly, as a field and forage grass.

"Finally, grasses grow from down below instead of up on top. Cut off the 
top of a young cabbage plant and you lose your cabbage. Cut off the top 
of a young wheat plant and you lose essentially nothing. The plant is grow­
ing at the bases of the leaves and the treasure of the wheathead is still 
forming way down inside, protected by many layers of leaves.

It is this ’way of life’ which makes grass so great a forage plant --as 
it is chewed off from the top it grows up from below, in fact, up to a 
point some grasses seem to be stimulated to extra vigorous growth 
by being cropped.

"So this year don’t cut all your lawn down to one and a half or two inches. 
Do a little experimenting in cutting-heights on the back lawn and take note 
of how the plants behave. Especially, save at least a small plot where 
you don’t cut at all, but just watch what happens. If you look sensitively 
and reflectively you won’t be disappointed."

BOOKLET BACKS UP INSTITUTE THINKING

"Your Lawn, " (Bulletin 271), an attractive booklet, has recently been published 
by the Agricultural Extension Service, Ohio State University. Photographs 
offered by the Lawn Institute are featured on page 15 of the booklet, and 
appropriate mention of the Institute is shown. The general content of the 
material conforms to Institute ideas — and may have been influenced by re­
cent stories published by the Institute,

TECHNICAL SERVICE BY UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE

Some time ago, the Lawn Institute sent a number of seed lots for comparative 
planting, to Dr. J. K. Underwood, Agronomy, University of Tennessee. Those 
plots designed to demonstrate the compatibility of lawn grass species, and the 
eventual domination of certain grasses, were last year decimated by sod web- 
worm attach; apparently a dieldrin insecticidal spray had killed the predators 
of sod webworm, allowing the latter to "explode", ruining the test area, which 
has now been plowed under.

Through the early seedling stages, Dr. Underwood observes that the findings 
parallel those of the past, in which ryegrass proved exceedingly antagonistic 
towards other seeded species. As a matter of fact the ryegrass planting along 
with bermuda (in the autumn) repressed spring bermuda almost completely, 
even when the ryegrass was mowed back and nearly eliminated. The question 
still remains whether there is some toxic secretion by the ryegrass, or 
whether this is mere mechanical competition. To a lesser degree, Dr. Under­
wood found red fescue repressing bermuda, bluegrass and bentgrass.

Perhaps more interesting to Institute members was the "winter grass" experi­
mentation initiated with bluegrass and red fescue varieties sent Dr. Underwood 
last autumn. Sections of all named variety plots of bermudagrass and Zoysia 
were overseeded in autumn with bluegrass, red fescues and bentgrasses.
Dr. Underwood found that the bentgrass did not come up at all, and was use­
less as winter cover; the bluegrass made a beautiful cover later in the season, 
but was slow to start; the fescue came up very quickly, and made excellent 
cover through the winter. Come-back of bermuda and Zoysia in the spring is

in just the reverse order, being quickest where there was no winter cover, 
intermediate in the bluegrass seedings, and slowest in the fescue. Dr. 
Underwood is awaiting the lasting qualities of the various plantings before 
making up his mind on winter grass overseeding recommendations, but 
currently favors bluegrass or a slightly lighter seeding rate of fescue than 
he used in these trials.

It was interesting that both bluegrass and the fescue varieties gave good 
emergence on even the very tight named strains of Zoysia and bermudagrass. 
This indicates that with a little attention to frequent sprinkling at the time of 
overseeding, northern quality grasses can adequately substitute for ryegrass, 
and prove superior, for winter grass overseedings in the South. The fescue 
overseedings were more attractive with the darker green strains of bermuda 
(such as Sunturf) than with some of the lighter colored yellow-green strains. 
Bluegrass color is more like the bermuda and Zoysia, so the contrast at this 
time of year was not apparent.

Dr. Underwood feels that it is possible to have a compatible two-grass system 
in most sections of Tennessee, if a little care is practiced. In general he 
would suggest planting bermuda to a seedbed sterilized for weeds, during 
spring or summer, then overseeding this with bluegrass and fescue in autumn. 
Thereafter the predominance of either the bermuda or the bluegrass-fescue 
should be controlled by mowing and fertilization, Mostly this involves gener­
ous application of fertilizers in autumn to encourage the bluegrass and fescue, 
combined with reasonably high mowing. If the northern grasses start to squeeze 
the bermuda out, lower mowing and greater warm-weather fertilization can tip 
the balance in favor of the bermuda (or Zoysia).

Among the Oregon fescue varieties, Dr. Underwood concedes there is little 
to choose, but if he had to make a pick would select Pennlawn first. His 
Zoysia preferences are for Emerald and Matrella, although Meyer is a little 
more aggressive and fills in more quickly (one and a half instead of two years), 
Tifgreen or Sunturf would be first choice among bermudas. He has also had 
fair results with bents, including Penncross and Seaside, As a matter of fact 
he likes bentgrasses for their ability to "give body" to the turf. Contrary to 
conditions farther North, Dr. Underwood maintains that bentgrasses do not 
become a pest in Tennessee lawns, dominating bluegrasses and fescues.

A number of selections have been made of all of these species, as well as a 
hardy type of centipede, bahiagrass and St. Augustine which have survived the 
winters in Knoxville. Dichondra is said able to survive winters there, even 
become a pest. Merion bluegrass has performed poorly for Dr. Underwood, 
and he would not recommend it. He likes Park bluegrass, because of rapid 
germination, and on theory for the same reason he likes natural Kentucky blue­
grass (its heterogeneity, derived from a "mixture of varieties").

In summary, it would seem desirable to further investigate possibilities of 
using the bluegrasses and fescues at this southern limit to their natural area 
of adaptation. Evidently, under the stress that prevails this far South, their 
competitive behavior is somewhat different from in the North. If these can 
adequately substitute for ryegrass in winter grass seedings, an appreciable 
market might develop southward, in time.

INDICATION OF EUROPEAN BLUEGRASS FAILURE...

Although by no means conclusive, it is interesting to note that plantings of an 
imported (European) bluegrass by Dr. Robert Buckner, Agronomy, University 
of Kentucky, failed rather completely. So notes Dr. Schery during his recent 
visit with Dr. Buckner. The Institute has sent Buckner added samples of im­
ported seed, to determine if these also prove unadapted.

Dr. Buckner is alarmed lest imported seed may prove to cheat the consumer, 
and especially be of a type to contain weeds which might degrade the reputation 
of Kentucky bluegrass. Julian Walden, bluegrass cleaner of Midway, Kentucky, 
indicates that there is some alarm in Kentucky lest the name "Kentucky" be 
taken in vain in importation of "Kentucky bluegrass". There is apparently 
some agitation, both for increased import duties and for restriction of the use 
of the prefix "Kentucky" for imported seed.

Dr. Buckner has planted the various regional bluegrass selections the Institute 
sent him through the past several years, as well as having made a number of 
his own. At the time of Dr. Schery’s visit plantings from commercial seed did 
show some off-color tendencies, that Dr. Buckner’s own selections did not. 
Evidently he has pulled out from the complex of "natural varieties" a number 
of strains which are more disease resistant, and better withstand the heat and 
other tribulations of summer.

It may just be coincidence, but northern sources of bluegrass seemed more 
afflicted with disease difficulties than did southern sources. Of course this 
makes logical sense, in that southern bluegrass should be better adapted to 
the Kentucky conditions than northern. But Dr. Buckner states that even his 
best selections are still bluegrass, and must be managed as bluegrass. In 
other words there will be no "miarcles", just slight improvements in the per­
formance of an already good grass.

Chiefly for his hybridization and breeding work with grasses, Dr. Buckner 
recently received the U.S.D.A. citation for the year for meritorious service.

NEW TV FEATURETTE IN PRODUCTION

Initial production on a new television featurette on fertilizers and lawns is 
underway. This is the fourth in the series involving mention and emphasis 
on quality turf and seed. The series is financed, produced and distributed by

the Encyclopaedia Brittanica. These featurettes are circulated among tele­
vision stations throughout the country — at no cost to the Lawn Institute.
Thus far, the preceding three featurettes have been distributed to upwards of 
100 local TV stations.

REPORT ON BLUEGRASS AND FESCUES AS "WINTER GRASS"

The following is an excerpt from a report by Jim Latham, Agronomist for the 
Milwaukee Sewerage Commission, on the testing of bluegrass and fescues as 
"winter grass" in the South:

"Poa annua was quite visible in most plots, but the light color of Poa 
trivialis provided a color ’shield’ and it was not noticeable until flowering 
was initiated. In Atlanta, Pennlawn was excellent all season. At Sea 
Island, however, it started well but deteriorated in January and ended 
the season very poorly.

"We realize that cost of Pennlawn would prohibit its use. Other creeping 
red varieties should provide similar response, though, and future testing 
is certainly indicated. Since this was definitely not an ’average’ season, 
the tests will be repeated next fall, possibly including some other fescues 
and mixtures."

GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION PROTESTS CLIMAX BLOWING

The following letter, received at the Institute office in Marysville, clearly 
defines the attitude of the Jefferson Seed Growers’ Association in Oregon:

"During the past several months the Jefferson Seed Growers’ Association 
has been considering the effect of the Climax Blowing method of testing 
bluegrass seed on the seed industry. We have endeavored to study all 
phases and all information available on this method.

"The Jefferson Seed Growers’ Association is an organization of farmers, 
representing approximately 300 growers, who grow in the neighborhood 
of 8000 acres of bluegrass for seed. Only a very slight amount of this 
is common Kentucky bluegrass with the majority grown being the special­
ized strains, Merion, Newport, and Code 95. A major share of the en­
tire farm income is involved.

"We are concerned particularly with the variety Merion. This seed varies 
in size, shape and weight from the common Kentucky. It is our feeling, 
from the limited test work that has been done so far, that the proposed 
Climax Blowing point could be extremely disastrous to some growers each 
year and to the whole Merion bluegrass crop on years when conditions 
cause light seed production.

"We, as an Association, strongly protest the use of the Climax Blowing 
method on Merion bluegrass seed until sufficient research can be con­
ducted to determine its effect on the seed industry. We also urge further 
study of the Climax Blowing method on other Kentucky strains, as each 
strain is slightly different in characteristics, we feel each would be 
affected differently by the Blowing method,

"We respectfully request that the method not be adopted as the official 
method of testing as planned in 1961, but, at least, remain an alternate 
method through 1965,"

MANGELSDORF FURTHERS INSTITUTE'S CLIMAX VIEWS

Mr. Ed Mangelsdorf, Institute Board Member from St, Louis, generously 
took of his time and personal expense to represent the Institute at the A.O.S.A, 
meeting in Springfield, Illinois in late June. This meeting was devoted almost 
entirely to discussions of the climax testing of bluegrass, and the industry’s 
viewpoint was expressed by Gager Vaughan, President of A.S.T.A., as well 
as by Mr. Mangelsdorf.

Ed Mangelsdorf was perhaps most successful in working "behind the scenes".
In consultation with A.O.S.A, "bigwigs", he induced Al Carter to put before 
the A.O.S.A, a modification of the resolution passed unanimously by the Lawn 
and Turfgrass Division at the A.S.T.A, annual meeting in Kansas City. This 
called for a committee embracing interests outside of A.O.S.A., to conduct 
a broader study, and made recommendations as to when and if climax should 
be initiated as an official test method.

This resolution, which was approved, calls for a quadripartite committee em­
bracing A.S.T.A.-Institute representation, that of the commercial seed tech­
nologists, that of the A.O.S.A., and that of the Seed Control Officials. 
Essentially this lines two "pro" parts of the committee against two "con" 
organizations. Much was achieved to even have this concession, and to have 
admission by A.O.S.A, leaders that the climax blowing point chosen was not 
necessarily the best, nor need be the point retained.

Mr, Mangelsdorf effectively answered questions from the floor and from the 
committees, showing how the climax method would produce hardship on the 
domestic bluegrass industry. He pointed out especially how the complexities 
and misunderstandings would multiply, if there were imposition of any great 
change in the generally accepted marketing customs.

The Institute is indeed grateful to Mr. Ed Mangelsdorf for upholding its in­
terests at this gathering. There is hope that some suitable accomodation of 
A.O.S.A, and Seed Trade views may result, from the start made at Spring- 
field.

COLOR SLIDES AND SCRIPTS AUGMENT INSTITUTE PROGRAM

Dr. Schery has recently prepared a series of write-ups and Kodachrome 
slides on lawn grasses and lawn making. The series consists of nineteen 
lawn making shots and bluegrass production photographs, which are issued 
approximately at cost to correspondents who inquire for lawn information 
with which to illustrate lectures. The first set of this material was sent 
to Gro-Green Products, Inc., Buffalo, New York, for the use of Mr. Arnold 
Walker in talking to garden clubs and similar groups.

U.S.D.A, BULLETIN VERIFIES INSTITUTE STAND

A position that the Lawn Institute has advocated for some time, namely that 
some of the fancy named varieties be used in mixture (preferably with natural 
Kentucky bluegrass), has been proposed in the current U.S.D.A. Home & 
Garden Bulletin No. 61, entitled "Lawn Diseases". Authored by Kreitlow and 
Juska of the Crops Research Division, Agricultural Research Service, it 
reports:

"Plant mixtures of recommended grasses. Species vary in their sus­
ceptibility to different disease organisms, and in a mixture one or more 
of the grasses usually will survive a severe disease attack."

DR. SCHERY CONFERS AT UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI

Here are a few highlights from Dr. Schery's recent visit to the University 
of Missouri, Columbia, after conferences with Drs. Hemphill and Taven, 
our Advisors at the University:

The bluegrass and fescue turfs were better at this season, than at any time 
when I have previously visited the University. The cool spring, with ample 
rainfall made a luxuriant bluegrass turf anywhere that it was mowed high. 
Because of its vigor, coupled with high mowing, very few weeds existed in 
established sod, even though the rainfall had also been favorable for bringing 
on spring weeds elsewhere. This simply proves once again that the best weed 
control is a thriving bluegrass turf. Because of the lack of weeds in most of 
the test area where the bluegrass was flourishing, little crabgrass could be 
found and test results were not too meaningful because there was so little 
crabgrass in the check plots.

Dr. Hemphill’s preference is for Dacthal among the pre-emergence crabgrass 
killers. He finds both this and Zytron safe, but Dacthal slightly more effective 
Arsenates (such as PAX) are equally effective, but he fears that there may be 
some build-up of arsenical toxicity in the soil that will cause future cumulative 
damage.

Both liquid and dry applications of Dacthal were equally useful. Neither this 
nor Zytron gave any nimblewill control as a pre-emergent.

A number of test materials have proven very harmful to the bluegrass, killing 
out extensive patches (these are experimental, not marketed). Paradoxically, 
where a crabgrass killer had been used (and it was so rough on the bluegrass), 
the crabgrass was appearing in the bare areas, freed from the competition of 
bluegrass. This simply proves again that the best method of restraining crab­
grass is to have a good cover, even if it is only a mulch of grass leaves.

No very effective chemical means for controlling knotweed has been found. 
Silvex proved no more effective than 2,4-D, both of them were only useful 
when the knotweed was very young. Endothal, at a doubled rate, applied with 
a wetting agent, showed some promise of getting rid of knotweed, although it 
wasn’t certain how severe it would be on some of the established grasses.

One very interesting observation was that 2,4-D applied last autumn, for con­
trol of the familiar broadleaf weeds, also seemed to eliminate chickweed 
(not yet visible at time of application). At least the areas treated with 2,4-D 
were free of chickweed this spring, while untreated areas had extensive stands 
of common chickweed.

All attempts at killing out volunteer bermudagrass have failed, including the 
current treatment with dalapon plus TCA. The bermudagrass browns, but 
comes back from the underground parts. Dr. Hemphill feels that the only 
way to eliminate bermudagrass with certainty is a complete soil fumigation 
with methyl bromide.

DR. SCHERY APPEARS AT M.G.C.A. NATIONAL CONVENTION

The 1960 National Convention of the Men’s Garden Clubs of America was held 
June 21-24 at Asheville, North Carolina. Included in the program were 
presentations by Dr. Fred J. Nisbet, Superintendent, Biltmore Estate;
Dr. Richard Thompson, rose authority and President of the Garden Writers 
Association; and Paul Frese, Director of Education at the Sterling Forest 
Gardens, west of New York City.

Dr. Schery conducted a workshop on the subject of Lawns. In his remarks, 
entitled, "Your Lawn -- To Do or Not To Do, " he told the assembled con­
vention:

"For a good lawn, suitable building blocks for the climate where this 
lawn is to be are needed. One can never make a first rate lawn out of 
coarse haygrasses or impermanent bunch grasses. The Lawn Institute 
feels that any grass (or combination of turfgrasses) of quality should be 
fine textured, perennial for the climate in which used, and preferably 
able to spread by rhizome or stolon. Within the framework of these

major attributes varietal choice is less important than maintenance 
practices; all good grasses can make an excellent turf if they are properly 
tended, but none can do it when maintenance is really poor. The Lawn 
Institute likes Kentucky bluegrass mixed with red fescue varieties such 
as come from Oregon, for lawns north from Tennessee; bermudas, 
Zoysias and centipede for the South, or St, Augustine in shade,"

DR, SCHERY TO APPEAR AT LONGWOOD GARDENS

"During February and March of each year, " writes Dr. Hodge, Head of 
Education and Research for Longwood Gardens, a duPont sponsored endeavor, 
"Longwood Gardens presents a series of six evening lecturers in the general 
field of horticulture. The aim is to bring well qualified, stimulating speakers 
who can present information in their field that will be of practical value to 
the serious home gardener,"

He continues in his letter to Dr. Schery, "...in your present position... 
the authority in this field...would you consider giving a practical, down- 
to-earth illustrated talk on lawns here at Longwood."

Dr. Schery has agreed to handle the evening program on March 1, 1961.
This session will be devoted to lawns and turfgrass.

DR. SCHERY ADDRESSES MISSOURI TURFGRASS CONFERENCE

Dr. Schery played a prominent part in the First Annual Missouri Turfgrass 
Conference, held July 14-15 at the University of Missouri in Columbia, As 
the lead-off speaker at the first morning session and appearing again at the 
evening banquet, and then participating in a workshop session, Dr. Schery 
had many opportunities to further the cause of the Lawn Institute, Among 
those appearing with Dr. Schery on the program were William C. Haskett,
Plant Pathologist, the Upjohn Company; S. A, Frederiksen, Industrial Sales 
Division, Mallinckrodt Chemical Works and Marvin H. Ferguson, Mid-Con­
tinent Director, National Research Coordinator, USGA, Green Section.

Dr. Schery reviewed the many selections of grasses that are possible, then 
gradually eliminated those unsuited for climate, for mowing and so on -- and 
concluded with a recommendation that for good turf only bluegrasses and 
fescues be sown.

Summarizing his remarks at the evening banquet. Dr. Schery told the group:

"Good lawns can co-exist with leisurely living. Choose non-tempermental 
grasses proven able to take it -- bluegrass and lawn fescues for the north. 
Begin the lawn season in autumn, with bolster seeding and generous 
feeding ..."

DR. SCHERY CONFERS WITH PURDUE AGRONOMIST

The following is a summary of Dr. Schery’s observations during his July 
visit with Dr. W. H. Daniel, Extension Agronomist in Turf at Purdue 
University:

Almost all classes of pre-emergence crabgrass killers have proven effective 
when used at recommended rates. Dr, Daniel now feels he can conscientiously 
recommend bluegrass as a golf fairway grass, in view of the ability to check 
crabgrass and other annual weeds, as well as the broadleaves (2,4-D). In 
the test plots the arsenicals are quite enduring, chlordane less so, Dacthal 
and Zytron doubtfully beyond a few months. Of course there are some dis­
advantages in having quick dissipation, especially when it comes to reseeding. 
Interestingly, a mistaken application of chlordane, at the rate of 400 pounds 
active material per acre (nearly 40 times recommended strength) has resulted 
in no injury to bluegrass.

It does seem evident that arsenic accumulations in the soil can result in less 
tolerance to drought, at least as far as grass color is concerned.

Winters have been severe enough at Lafayette that almost all of the fine leaf 
Zoysias have been lost. Broad leaf strains, especially Meyer, have survived 
rather well. Dr. Daniel is searching for a broadleaf Zoysia with elongate 
internodes, into which bluegrass may be inter-planted successfully.

Fertilizer trials on various strains of bluegrass are in the third year. It is 
evident that Merion needs high fertility to look well (Dr. Daniel says at least 
4 pounds actual nitrogen per M per year). Interestingly, grass that has re­
ceived a generous fertilization in the first two years, then has been left with­
out feeding this year, looked no better than turf that had not received feeding 
previously. It looks as though there is no carry-over of fertility from year 
to year, except through the colder months.

Scores of bluegrass strains have been selected and are under test. Some may 
eventually be released to the trade, including supposed dwarf and shade forms 
that would have special advantages. Newport bluegrass did not look very well 
at the time of visit. Dr. Daniel reports that this is slow to start early in the 
year, but is a strong finisher. He would suggest a very heavy "pushing" with 
fertilizer at the beginning of the season.

Elaborate testing with delicate instrumentation on the practice putting green 
suggests that soil conditions are less important than previously had been 
thought. Some of the bentgrasses, if accorded reasonable attention, appear 
best on some of the soils or mixtures which theoretically are poorest.

Dr. Daniel is coming around to the view that less frequent (as well as higher) 
mowing is important to vigor and survival in most turfgrasses.

AGRICULTURAL METEROLOGY GROUP HEARS SCHERY

Dr. Schery combined his trip to Kansas City for the Lawn Institute Annual 
Meeting with an appearance before the Third Conference on Agricultural 
Meterology on May 18 and 19.

In Dr. Schery’s remarks, entitled "Bluegrass and the Weather," he explained 
how rainfall data of a previous year might indicate what the bluegrass crop 
will be at a specific location the following June.

"In general, rainy summers lead to poor inflorescence production; drought 
leads to good production, if followed by moisture in autumn, Adequate autumn 
moisture correlates with good production, especially following a dry summer. 
If the total annual rainfall is much in excess of average, it can have an in­
hibiting tendency even where summer-autumn conditions might prove favor­
able."

Among those appearing with Dr. Schery on the program were: F. A. Went, 
Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis; Dr. F. A. Brooks, Department of 
Agricultural Engineering, University of California; and Dr. M. B. Russell, 
Department of Agronomy, University of Illinois.

''WHAT THEY ARE SAYING..."

"Your program (at the Convention of the Men’s Garden Club of America) was 
wonderfully received and was a big help in having this convention considered 
’the best of the first 25 years'"

Dr. Fred J. Nisbet 
Biltmore Estate

"Your chapter on grass seed packs a lot of good information. It’s succinct, 
well written, and well organized. The style is fresh -- delightful.

"I wish you would insert some material of practical use to the home owning 
little guy -- where to buy seed, something about varieties, what to look for, 
even though that is not your assignment and not particularly the purpose of 
the book. Lots of people are bound to feel you have not told the whole story.— 

"Many thanks for a good job!"

Alfred Stefferud, Editor 
Agricultural Yearbook 
U.S.D.A.
Washington, D. C.

Viewers Praise Institute Film

"Subject was well presented -- informative -- found out what went wrong with 
our lawns."

Herbert Jahn 
A.A.U.W. of San Bruno 
San Bruno, California

"A very excellent film. Both instructive and entertaining."

G. Wiley, Jr., President 
Garden Dealers of Delaware Valley 
Oreland, Pennsylvania

"Thanks from two thousand and seventy-five patients, young and old alike.
God bless you,"

A. Workum
Kings Park State Hospital 
Kings Park, New York

"This picture was very interesting in showing the product and how to care 
for it."

Bert Montgomery
Medical Center for Federal Prisoners 
Springfield, Missouri

"This film was especially interesting and informative for the patients pre­
scribed for farming courses. We wish to thank you for its use."

"Excellent subject matter."

A. L. Pigman, Chief 
Educational Therapy Section 
Veterans Administration Hospital 
Lexington, Kentucky

Lawrence Spyker, Program Chairman 
Allen County Men’s Garden Club 
Lima, Ohio

"A very excellent picture, well received by vitally interested dealer audience,"

Dwight M. Brown, Vice President 
Chas. McCullough Seed Co,
Cincinnati, Ohio