29\Y\ t40 C O ^ Q A ^ Proceedings Of The 29th Northwest Turfgrass Conference September 16-19, 1975 Chinook Motel & Towers Yakima, Washington PRESIDENTS MESSAGE As my term as President of the Northwest Turfgrass Association draws to a close, I wish to express my thanks to all of those who have extended their support to make this year a success. We have seen our organization realize one of their many goals to hire Tom Cook as a research associate at the Western Washington Research and Extension Center at Puyallup, Washington. This was done entirely with donations and a lot of sweat and hard work from various sources brought about by our membership. We must continue this effort in every way in the future since problems in research and maintenance increase almost daily and to continue the fine program we have at this time will require the help of each member. We are most fortunate to have in this area dedicated people like Dr. Roy Goss, Dr. Chuck Gould, A1 Law and Dr. Ken Morrison and many others who are so willing to provide us with helpful service and information with problems we have the year around. NORTHWEST TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION 1975 Officers Cliff Everhart President John Monson Vice President Dick Haskell Treasurer Roy L. Goss Exec. Secretary Board of Directors Bud Ashworth Hangman Valley Golf Club 1029 S. Garry Liberty Lake, WA 99019 Jerry Bacon Royal Oaks Country Club 8917 N. E. 4th Plain Road Vancouver, WA 98661 Milt Bauman Seattle Golf Club 210 N.W. 145th Seattle, WA 98177 Wayne Dean City Parks & Ree. Dept. 129 North 2nd Street Yakima, WA 98901 Cliff Everhart Manito Golf & Country Club Box 8025 Manito Station Spokane, WA 99203 John Monson Broadmoor Golf Club 2340 Broadmoor Drive E. Seattle, WA 98102 Rich Schwabauer Waverly Country Club Box 1100 S.E. Waverly Dr. Portland, OR 97222 Frank Zook E. V. Baltz & Son 9817 East Burnside St. Portland, OR 97216 Sam Zook Overlake Golf & Country Club Box 97 Medina, WA 98039 TABLE OF CONTENTS Developing Professionalism - Richard W. Malpass Fértilizers-The Present and Future J. C. Engibous The Present and Future Status of Pesticides Stan Frederiksen Leaf and Tiller Growth of Grasses as Affected by Temperature, Mowing and Other Practices Victor B. Youngner Budgeting for Parks and Golf Courses Albert D. Angove Water Management to Meet Current Need V. B. Youngner Developing New Park and Recreation Areas Robert Warren Bignold Care and Operation of Turfgrass Equipment Babe Brinkworth A Look at Turfgrass Equipment Today Ned Brinkman Chemical Compatibility for Turfgrasses Roy L. Goss Turf Seed Quality - Alvin G. Law You--Your Golf Course—and the Turfgrass Consultant W. H. Bengeyfield Snow Mold Control with Fungicides D. K. Taylor Idaho Turfgrass Observational Trials Ron Ensign Turfgrass Snowmold Test - 1975 Ron Ensign Minor Element Nutrition on Turfgrasses Ron D. Ensign Bluegrass, Fescue and Ryegrass Variety Evaluation for Turf - Stanton E. Brauen Diseases of Turfgrass - Charles J. Gould 1975 Voa annua Survey - Thomas W. Cook Control of Voa annua - Thomas W. Cook Agronomic Research Report - Roy L. Goss 7 22 27 37 42 45 51 68 80 84 91 97 105 107 110 114 118 122 .127 130 139 DEVELOPING PROFESSIONALISM 1 Richard W. Malpass2 If I were speaking only to golf course superintendents today, I would make my contribution to the program much more blunt. In fact, I might become quite explicit in some of my comments concerning the activities of some superintendents. However, I know that there are, in this room, some students, some homeowners interested in a little information they might glean regarding care of their grass and shrubs, perhaps some landscapers, and maybe just a few who have come in out of the cold. When we think of the word professional it brings to mind a number of occupations. Doctors, lawyers, certified public accountants, registered pharmacists, registered surveyors, dentists, and many more. In fact, you may not even be aware of some of the occupations actively engaged in a certification program. Insurance agents, or policemen, or realtors to name a few. Our modern and complex civilization, our tremendous increase in knowledge the past few years, the demand for specialization, all have contributed to the necessity for and the desire to upgrade ourselves in our chosen profession. We speak of our own occupation -- golf course superintendency -- as a profession. Let us look at some of the criteria which are used to determine just how professional an occupation is. They are perhaps best set forth in a book "WORK AND SOCIETY" by Edward Gross who proposes six criteria which may be used. —7 To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washinaton, September 17-19, 1975. y Superintendent, Riverside Golf and Country Club and Vice President, GCSAA, Portland, Oregon. (1) THE UNSTANDARDIZED PRODUCT: Certainly, as far as golf course superintendents are concerned we are dealing with an unstandardized product. No two golf courses are alike. There are variations in soils, weather conditions, grasses, layout, locations. And, as Stan Metsker pointed out in his article "How Professional are we..?" which appeared in the February 1969 GOLF SUPERINTENDENT magazine, "the golfers themselves vary in their demands from one course to another. They cannot agree amonq themselves whether they like fast greens or slow greens on which to play, or even what is fast or what is slow. Not only is each golf course different from any other, it varies considerably from day to day or even hour by hour depending on light, moisture, and wind." (2) DEGREE OF PERSONALITY INVOLVEMENT: Listen to a group of superintendents talking about their place of employment. Almost invariably each will speak of his course in a most possessive manner. It is "my course" this, or "my course" that. In many cases, if his club officials are satisfied that they have a capable superintendent, he is left with a free hand to manage the golf course almost as if it were his own. Again, quoting Stan Metsker, "T. H. Marshall has said that 'The attitude of the client to the lawyer is roughly this: "I am asking you", he says, "to act as my brain in this matter. I want you to think and judge for me, please do so exactly as I should if I knew the law'." Superintendents are generally known to be dependable and loyal. There does seem to be limited confidence on the part of the employers at times, but there is no question that the superintendent is personally involved." (3) WIDE KNOWLEDGE OF A SPECIALIZED TECHNIQUE: Jim Converse, Editor of Scott and Sons "PROTURF" magazine stated the following in Issue No. 8: "Today's superintendent is no longer a grass cutter or a farmer, and it's a sad golf course who pictures him as such. He is a man with a vast number of skills. His knowledge of turf can be superior, but working with and managing people is a definite need. He must also be an expert in diplomacy, purchasing, machinery, business relations, and a master at handling the unexpected. He must anticipate all things that will be good for his course and be prepared to make adjustments for everything that is bad. Very few professions require solid knowledge in so many difficult areas of learning, and the list isn't growing smaller. (4) SENSE OF OBLIGATION TO ONE'S ART: The professional man is not supposed to work only for money. There should be a deep satisfaction for the results one has achieved working with Nature, or people, with the tools of his trade. Who hasn't seen the glow of pride as a skilled craftsman observes a fine piece of work he has created? This feeling might be best exemplified by a portion of an article by Bob Forbes appearing in the Indiana Nursery News of May, 1974. "Frequently we see lists created to show results of the most admired professions. Have you ever seen nurserymen listed in the top five?, 10?, 20?. It is my contention we should be. Why? Several positive reasons. Not for vanity. Not for glory as such. But because our contribution to society's well-being puts us there._ In my opinion there is not a nurseryman who doesn't provide viable, visible social benefits equal to 10 lawyers, 20 doctors, 30 preachers and 40 psychiatrists. Our skills and knowledge can produce results that can be seen, heard, smelled and felt for generations after we are gone. Without us the world would be dull, dreary and dead." "Instead, it is alive, vibrant, and green. Our products and skills create solitude in the clamor and din, beauty from the dreary and decay, mind the wounds and heal the sores of a world apparently hell-bent on self destruction, and we do these things and much more for a fraction of their true value. We can shade the parched soul, soften the glitter and glare, spark the dying embers of the imagination and still not make enough money to pay our employees, or ourselves a decent wage. We preserve the secrets of creation with the most scientific expertise known to the gods and yet perpetuate the most antiquated professional profile known to man. From these contrasts several truths are evident. The need for our products and skills has never been greater and our ability to serve less. The horn blows and we do not hear—because it is someone else who plays the tune.—" (5) SENSE OF IDENTITY WITH ONE'S COLLEAGUES: Virtually every profession has its local chapters or associations, regional groups and a national or international organization. Periodical meetings are held by members of the profession for educational or fraternal purposes. Many such groups provide various services for the benefit of their members. So, too, does the golf superintendent profession. There are many local, statewide and regional groups as well as a national organization. In the national associations' Articles of Incorporation the purposes set forth for which the Corporation was formed are: (a) "To advance the art and science of greenkeeping, to cement the greenkeepers of the United States and Canada into a closer relationship with each other; to collect and disseminate practical knowledge of the problems of greenkeeping with a view of more efficient and economical maintenance of golf course; to provide direct financial benefits to greenkeepers who are disabled or their families and to the families of greenkeepers who die." (6) ESSENTIAL TO WELFARE OF SOCIETY: Every profession has developed over the years on the basis of the need for the service which the profession was able to supply. The dictionary defines it as an occupation that properly involves a liberal, scientific, or artistic education or its equivalent, and usually mental rather than manual labor. The first "greenskeepers" were probably selected for their ability to work 12-16 hours a day and the tools of their trade were a broom, shovel and scythe. The broom and shovel were to remove the evidences of the sheep or cattle having browsed down the grass of the so-called golf course, and the scythe to cut the few remaining weeds or tall grass. In an article appearinq in the book "TURFGRASS SCIENCE" by Gene Nutter and James Watson, which was published in 1969 there appears the following account: "Gradually, as golf courses increased in number and as maintenance standards were raised, a more definite manpower structure evolved. Working foremen became full-time supervisory greenskeepers and eventually golf course superintendents with broad management responsibilities. Requirements for trained skills increased as mechanization replaced hand methods and as new chemicals were made available. These technological changes resulted in greater job specialization. A mechanic became essential and many golf clubs employed an assistant or a foreman to give closer supervision of labor. Still the evolution of academic professionalism was slow. Job improvement evolved largely through greenskeeper ingenuity and the need for less laborious methods. There was very little opportunity for educational improvement. In time, tradesmen (again, mostly greenskeepers) began to visit each other and finally to gather informally for discussion of common problems. At first, trade practices were guarded very jealously. Later, the value of exchanging experiences and ideas became evident. Gradually, some groups began to compile and distribute notes from their meetings. This led to the development of technical (educational) conferences, beginning in the mid-1920's, during the "golden era" of golf. From these meetings and conferences, a higher level of managerial skill evolved in the industry. Although the growth of golf facilities was retarded by the depression of the 1930's, the financial austerity facing the surviving golf facilities led to more efficient maintenance and to stronger professional growth among greenskeepers and other turfgrass personnel. The approach of World War II, in the wake of the depression, caused a further reduction in turfgrass operations. Some facilities remained open, but much of the nation's available manpower become involved directly or indirectly in the war effort. Indeed, some turfgrass specialists transferred their activities to such military functions as maintenance of air fields and training bases. As the nation recovered from the severe deprivations of the war years, there was an urgent demand to catch up--first on rationed products, then on civilian activities. Closed golf courses were renovated and new facilities were planned. Beginning with a 20-year low of 4,800 golf courses, the 10year period from 1946-1955 saw an increase of only 10% in the number of golf courses. This period was followed by a fantastic increase over the next 10 years (1956-1965). This expansion rate continued through the 1 60 1 s to a projected figure of 10,500 golf course facilities in 1970. Manpower requirements for the golf course industry increased at a rate comparable to the growth in golf facilities. Specialization and professionalism increased likewise. For example, in 1951 at its Silver Anniversary Meeting, the National Greenskeeping Superintendents Association changed its name to the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, and changed the name of their official publication from the Greenskeepers Reporter to the Golf Course Reporter. In 1966, the publication name was changed again to the GOLF SUPERINTENDENT. These changes reflect the concern of golf course superintendents in advancing their professional image. Parallel to the explosion in golf course development was the development in other turfgrass facilities and functions. As manpower development advanced on the golf course, other turfgrass facilities also began to recognize the need for better trained and more specialized manpower. In addition, the manufacturing and servicing branches of the industry moved • forward to supply products and services for the expanding facilities. Growth at all levels of the industry brought increasing demands to the institutional branch for knowledge and technology. Turfgrass research programs developed at most land grant colleges, and some developed curricula to assist the industry in training manpower. In addition to university training, some vocational-technical schools and colleges developed training courses specializing in turfgrass management. The first of these was the Stockbridae Winter School at the University of Massachusetts. Founded in 1927 under the inspiration of the late Professor Lawrence S. Dickinson, this institution offered an annual 8-week short course beginning in January, which stressed fundamentals of turfgrass production. Many of the nation's leading golf course superintendents are alumni of this pioneering school. Later the Stockbridge school initiated a 2-year course for turf majors. Other vocational-technical schools have established specialized training courses in turfgrass management. Today, many technical conferences and trade expositions are held across the country on a regional, state, or local basis to provide industry personnel with refresher courses and programs of continuing education and to keep the industry abreast of new products and technologies. The International Turf Conference and Show sponsored annually by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America features the first and currently the only national exhibit of turfgrass products as well as a national conference on turf (primarily golf) technology. At Anaheim, California, in 1974, this event reported an attendance of over 5,000 people. Currently the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America is giving its members the opportunity to improve their managerial and technical skills by conducting seminars throughout the country. This past year they have also formed the Advisory Educational Council composed of nine members who are recognized turf authorities from Universities throughout the United States. This Committee will advise and assist the Association in its educational programs. Whatever your profession, it will have progressed through a number of steps to reach the position of respect and public trust it may now enjoy. These steps are essentially the same for all professions. In his book "THE SOCIOLOGY OF WORK" by Theodore Caplow there are four steps described. (1) THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION WITH DEFINITE MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA DESIGNED TO KEEP OUT THE UNQUALIFIED In 1926, at the Sylvania Country Club in Toledo, Ohio, the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GREENKEEPERS OF AMERICA was formed. There were 29 original charter members. There are now 92 associated or affiliated chapters throughout the United States and Canada. Membership requirements are quite diverse among the chapters and the only requirement to be a Class A member of the national organization is to have been a golf course superintendent for three years and to be presently employed in that capacity. Presently there are over 3,700 members. (2) The second step is the change of name which serves the multiple function of reducing identification with previous occupational status, asserting a technological monopoly, and providing a title which can be monopolized, the former one usually being in the public domain. In 1938 a change in name was made to the "Greenskeeping Superintendents Association", and in 1951, to the "Golf Course Superintendents Association of America". The name change from greenskeeper to Superintendent does seem to better describe the increased responsibilities of the job. Unquestionably new technological developments have given status to the occupation. (3) The Development and promulgation of a code of ethics which asserts the social utility of the occupation, sets up public welfare rationale, and develops rules which serve as further criteria to eliminate the unqualified and unscrupulous. The Code of Ethics of GCSAA sets forth the obligations of a superintendent to his employer, to his fellow superintendents, his association. There is not much doubt that it could be improved. (4) Prolonged political agitation, the object of which is to obtain the support of the public power for the maintenance of the new occupational barriers. In practice, this usually proceeds by stages from the limitation of a specialized title to those who have passed an examination (registered engineer, certified public accountant, landscape engineer) to the final stage at which the mere doing of the acts reserved to the profession is a crime. While golf course superintendents have not progressed this far, some professions have. In many States there are a number of professions which may not be practiced except by licensing or by passing strict examinations. Caplow's fourth step was prolonged political agitation, under which he mentions occupational barriers, and registration or certification. He went on to say: "Concurrently with this activity, which may extend over a very long period of time, goes the development of training facilities directly or indirectly controlled by the professional society, particularly with respect to admission and to final qualification; the establishment through legal action of certain privileges of confidence and inviolability, the elaboration of the rules of decorum found in the code, and the establishment— after conflict— of working relations with related professional groups." As has been mentioned before, the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America has embarked on an active educational program. In 1970 the position of Educational Director was created Since then an Educational Seminar program has been started and a certification program developed. Presently 180 superintendents are entitled to be known as Certified Golf Course Superintendents, or CGCS. To achieve this distinction they must have been actively engaged as a golf course superintendent and must have been a Class A member for at least three years. As presently administered this means that a college graduate in turf management will have served as a golf superintendent three years as a Class B member, then reclassified to an A member and have served three years in that classification before being eligible to become certified. A six hour examination consisting of six different categories must be successfully passed in order to qualify for the CGCS rating. Herbert Blumer in the preface to Vollomer and Mills PROFESSIONALIZATION" said, "Professionalization seeks to clothe a given area with standards of excellence, to establish rules of conduct, to develop a sense of responsibility, to set criteria for recruitment and training, to ensure a measure of protection for members, to establish collective control over the area, and to elevate it to a position of dignity and social standing in the society." n In the few minutes of my time which are left I would like to discuss with you the meaning of professionalism as it applies to the individual. It has been said that there are three kinds of people: 1. Those who make things- happen 2. Those who observe what is happening 3. Those who wonder what happened. Generally, a member of a profession belongs to that select society who make things happen. As a well-trained, capable, conscientious, golf course superintendent you are a professional in every sense of the word. Recently Bob Williams, superintendent of Bob O'Link Golf Club in Chicago, presented a talk entitled "What Is Happening In the Area Relative To The Golf Course Superintendents' Future?" He began with saying, "If I were to answer this question in a nutshell, I'd refer to that old cliche that we have some good news and some bad news, First, the good news: Today's superintendents are better qualified, more talented, more articulate, more efficient and producing better results than ever before in the history of golf. Now for the bad news: The clubs can't afford them." Further on in his talk he made note of the fact that today's superintendents are younger than his counterparts of 20, 30, and even 40 years ago. We now have few superintendents in their 40's or 50's. The predominance is in the 25 to 35 year age bracket. They are better educated both technically and in general education. Many are graduates of turf management programs at leading Universities. Our Community Colleges are turning out students who have participated in turf management or horticultural programs. In addition to his better education, today's superintendent is demonstrating better business management practices and executive ability. He keeps more and better records. He pays attention to costs, budgeting and prudent purchasing. He does a better job of communicating with his fellow superintendents, club officials and the golfing public. They display more aggressiveness and more independence than their predecessors. Mr. Williams gave a profile of today's superintendent as follows: And he is-Young Well educated Technically trained Efficient Self-confident Executive Oriented Well dressed Capable of the social graces Articulate Agressive Uses a good balance of family and job interests Respected and appreciated by both his employers and employees And he has a great love of the game of golf. I would like to quote from an article I recently wrote for the Northwest Turfgrass Topics. It is as follows: Dr. Joseph Troll, from the University of Massachusetts, speaking to the Canadian Golf Course Superintendents Association said, "We are all cognizant of the fact that we never stop learning and that all education is not acquired from schools. Turf conferences such as this one, the GCSAA Conference, University conferences, field days, and the reading of professional magazines are all valuable educational programs, and are certainly to be encouraged as facets of continuing education. It appears to be the policy for today and the future, "For the job you want, get the education you need", and the education is the prime requisite for future superintendents." Dr. Troll went on to say: "In addition, the increased interest in golf has created an even greater demand for responsible superintendents. They must be far more exacting—which requires knowledge and skill in a large number of disciplines for proper management of greens, grounds and men. I can best clarify what is meant by knowledge in a number of disciplines by quoting from a letter I received from a president of a golf club. He was soliciting my assistance in a search for a candidate for the superintendent's position at his course. He listed the following as the essential or desirable qualifications required for the job:" "Since we are living in a rapidly changing world, the most important characteristic is that a man must have a natural desire for learning and must have an open mind for new techniques, whether they be in labor management, choice of machinery, traffic control, chemistry, or other significant areas." "He should have a thorough academic grounding in agronomy, with a real understanding of plant metabolism and nutrition, soil structure, plant pathology, and the knowledge of modern techniques in herbicides, pesticides and fungicides. Some actual experience in laboratory techniques would be highly desirable." "Since the cost of labor will become an increasingly important factor, he should have a real faculty for dealing with human beings and should be able to teach and motivate those who work under him. This factor is hard to describe, but perhaps can best be stated as the ability to have people like you even though you are firm and a strict taskmaster. Perhaps a sense of humor and the ability to smile are important parts of this vague personality factor." "He should be able to communicate well, particularly to the people working under him, but also to the people for whom he is working. This characteristic, incidentally, is closely linked with the previous qualification." "He should have had some practical experience as an assistant or with a nine hole course of his own." "He should have the ability, when required, to do hard manual labor and use tools effectively. Otherwise, in the beginning, he will never command the respect of those working for him." "He should have practical common sense from a mechanical and engineering point of view." "I believe he left out a need for a background in business management. However, the gentleman did admit that a man who had all of these qualifications would be difficult to find and certainly would be desired by many golf club associations. In brief, a superintendent is and must be truly a professional man." A. J. Powell, Jr., Turf Specialist, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Maryland, writing in the "Agronomist" says: "when a superintendent completes his responsibilities by 8:30 a.m. each morning and spends the rest of the day in the clubhouse, his home, or just generally goofing off, then he is not displaying a professional image. His mentor superiors do not like it, and he is damaging the entire profession. Why be so careless?" "One should never hesitate to train his men as much as possible. Certain jobs should not be reserved for yourself just to show everyone you are necessary. With this type of supervision, respect will be lost. Subordinates should be allowed every educational opportunity possible. If you can create a real turf interest in the minds of laborers, they become professionals and not just "yes" men." Dr. Roy E. Blazer, speaking to the Tenth Virginia Turfgrass Conference, in 1970, said this: "We need to make a careful job analysis to make tasks easier and more efficient. Each one of us must maintain a positive attitude of usefulness and an honest day of services every day should be cur goal. The best man in a labor pool will support a leader superintendent that "knows his stuff". If we are not committed to an honest day's work, don't expect our labor associates to do so. The associates that you employ will soon become aware of your organizational ability, your intelligence, and flexibility in an aggressive turf service program. Good men want to be associated with a dedicated professional leader— your acts will speak louder than your words." "Let's maintain the image of a professional. Seek every opportunity to make course improvements, cut costs, and train our subordinates and ourselves. Courses are continuously being taught and educational meetings or conferences are continuously being held to help you maintain a professional image. Why not take advantage of these with your subordinates also?" "Anyone who stops learning is old, whether this happens at twenty, or eighty. Anyone who keeps on learning not only remains young but becomes constantly more valuable, regardless of physical capacity." ***Henry Ford*** Several years ago, our local association conducted a survey. We asked superintendents to tell us whether theirs was a nine or eighteen hole golf course, how many acres were maintained, their total budget, their own salary. Nothing on the report indicated the name of the course involved nor was the name of the superintendent requested. Would you believe that there were superintendents receiving little over $1.50 per hour. Even the lowest paid laborers on most golf courses received more than the superintendents of some courses. Have you ever considered asking local superintendents the going rate for salaries in the area where you are applying for a position that is vacant? Are you so anxious to get a job you would undersell the whole profession just to get work? Then work your tail off for the next ten years trying to get your wage up to where it should have been in the first place? And incur the displeasure of every superintendent in the area because you have hurt him, as well as yourself, by selling your services so cheaply? Do you know or care anything about ethics? or read this one from the GCSAA Code of Ethics? Have you heard WHEN SEEKING EMPLOYMENT a. I will seek counsel of local GCSAA Chapters when applying for a position in any district. b. I will make certain the position is open before making application to any prospective employer. c. I will ascertain and uphold the salary level of the district in which I negotiate for a position. d. I will, when possible, speak to the man who is leaving or has left the position for which I am considered. Do you attend the meetings of your local associationregional --national ? Do you pay to attend and pay your dues out of your own pocket? Are you so afraid of your job security that you won't ask your employer for funds to attend an educational meeting which can not only make you a better superintendent but also make you of immeasureably more value to your employer? You are the man who has been hired to maintain the turf, the trees and shrubs, the equipment, the irrigation system, to oversee the activities of your crew. Who else is going to know about new techniques, new chemicals, new fertilizers, new grasses if you don't keep up-to-date. It is your responsibility. Do you know or care that the officers of your local, regional, and national associations are attempting, with all the resources at their command to provide educational opportunities for you; to upgrade salaries commensurate with the responsibilities of your job; to promote research to make your job easier, to provide new and better grasses, methods of disease control, new techniques? Do you know or care that they are doing battle for you against the forces that would take away your right to use pesticides, fungicides, or fertilizers? Do you faithfully attend meetings of your association, serve on committees when asked to, discharge the duties of your office when elected by the membership? Or do you sit back and complain, refuse to help, skip meetings, play the loner? Not long aqo the new National Educational Advisory Committee, mentioned earlier, met in our GCSAA Headquarters Office. One of the gentlemen present, a very well known turf authority at a Midwest University, commented: "You will never have a successful association if you have only drinkers, golfers, or card players." What is your object in attending association or other educational meetings? Are you like some of the people who inquire at my office for jobs. They are not interested in what there is to do. Their first questions are—"When do I get a paycheck?" "What are the fringe benefits?" or "When do I get a vacation?" "Can I swim in the pool?" or "When can I play golf?" Do you greet the golfers with a smile, work with the golf professional, the club officials? Do you set a good example for your employees? Do you submit well written, concise, factual reports to your green committee, or club manager, or whoever your employer might be? Nearly fifty years ago I learned a few words of wisdom left us, the Scriptures say, by the wisest King who ever lived, Solomon, King of Israel. They are taken from the Book of Proverbs, Chapter 3. "Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies; and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days is in her right hand; and in her lefthand riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her; and happy is every one that retaineth her." In these past few moments I have told you what it takes to become a professional, how to identify a professional. We have heard the thoughts, the corrcern of educators, golf superintendents, businessmen, club officials, about our profession. I hope that I have left you with a desire to learn, to improve, to act like, to be a true professional. Now for a final quotation: "WITHOUT YOUR CONSENT IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO BE A FAILURE!!" FERTILIZERS—THE PRESENT AND FUTURE 1 J. C. Engibous 2 Perhaps the only non-controversial aspect of the fertilizer industry is its size. No one can deny that it is big, with total fertilizer use in the United States in fiscal 1973-74 totaling 47 million tons. On second thought, there is one other aspect of the fertilizer situation that is not argued, and that is the wide and often unexpected fluctuations in supply, demand and price. FARM VS NON-FARM USES Less than a year ago while the American Society of Agronomy scientific meetings were being held in Chicago, the most popular question posed by the media was: "With the tremendous fertilizer shortage, how could we justify using 15% of our production for aesthetic reasons on golf courses, playgrounds and parks?" Various congressional and other concerned spokesmen went so far as to convert this 15% figure to an equivalent of 3 million tons of nutrients, which could produce 30 million tons of rice in some developing country or countries. 1/ To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington, September 17 19, 1975. y Chairman and Professor of Soils, Department of Agronomy and Soils, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163. Thanks to the Association of American Plant Food Control Officials (AAPFCO) these figures have been refuted. In fact, of the total U.S. fertilizer use, 3.5% is estimated to have been used for non-farm purposes (parks, playgrounds, highway right of ways, and construction sites for erosion control plantings, lawns, gardens, golf courses, airport runway deicing, etc.). The best estimates of AAPFCO--based on their survey—is that approximately 600 thousand tons or less of nutrients were consumed in 1973-74 for the above purposes. Washington was the only northwest state reporting in the 36 state survey, and our percentage was 6.4. Again, this is far below the 15% figure bandied around earlier. Hopefully, most thinking people now realize that diversion of non-farm or speciality fertilizers expressly formulated for turfgrass, shrub, ornamental or garden fertilization would have little or no effect in helping grow additional food overseas. Furthermore, for a number of reasons, the fertilizer supply situation has eased substantially, and prices to some extent as wel1. FERTILIZER SUPPLY SITUATION In looking at fertilizer availability, it is logical to treat nitrogen first since it is the most expensive and widely required nutrient for plant growth. Tennessee Valley Authority specialists predict that by 1976, nitrogen supply again will exceed demand on a national basis, provided that sufficient natural gas seed stock is available and old plants are not retired. Demand may well exceed supply in the early 1980's, and additional new plants will be required to achieve a favorable supply-demand balance. The five Pacific Northwest states, incidently, presently produce considerably less nitrogen than is consumed in the region for fertilizer purposes. There is not sufficient natural gas in the Pacific Northwest to support much of an ammonia industry, and this situation will apparently worsen. Thus, the region is dependent on ammonia and nitrogen products from sources outside the region, particularly Alaska and Canada. Phosphate rock is the raw material for the production of finished phosphate fertilizers, and the United States holds one-fourth of the world's reserves. Despite this fact, world phosphate prices are generally established by North African producers, and they have adopted the OPEC countries marketing philosophy, which quickly resulted in tremendous price increases. On a world basis demand dropped substantially in 1974-75. Thus phosphate fertilizers are now readily found in the market place, with some price softening. In the case of potash, the tremendous ore reserves in Canada and the large, modern production capability associated with the potash industry would seem to preclude any shortages of this vital nutrient. Unfortunately, the Canadian industry is caught in the middle of a jurisdictional tax war between Dominion and Provincial governments, which has considerably dampened enthusiasm for increased capital investment for potash production in that country. To summarize the current and near term fertilizer picture, the widely publicized shortages of a year ago are no longer with us. Fertilizer prices have receded somewhat from the 1974 peaks, but they will never drop to the late 60 1 s levels, which were almost suicidal for the industry. Fertilizer is still the farmer's best buy, and we can anticipate vigorous sales and merchandising efforts by the industry to once again increase consumption. TURFGRASS FERTILIZER PRACTICES As an old fertilizer man, I have always viewed turfgrass fertilization as a curious blend of science, art, and prejudice. Around the fringes, of course, we usually find wizardry and alleged-magic. But for the most part, successful turfgrass managers have carefully followed and adopted the results of scientific research and fitted them into their own specific managerial situations, whether the products used are urea, ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, urea formaldehyde, sulfur coated urea, IBDU, Milorganite, or blood meal. Phosphates generally are applied in mixed fertilizers since phosphate is the backbone of such products. In recent years, we have seen a shift in form from old normal super phosphates (with its bonus of CaSÜ4) to triple super phosphate, and today increased use of ortho- plus poly-phosphates. On the potash scene, there is little likelihood that great inroads will be made in the lowest cost KC1 and the preferred K 2 S 0 4 , particularly in sulfur deficient areas. One producer does have a potassium poly-phosphate under development. I don't propose today to delve into the degree of polymerization that results in distinguishable types of products generally catagorized as "Urea Formaldehydes". My training as a soil scientist persuades me that however complicated the chemistry of fertilizer production might be, subsequent processes in the soil are far more complicated, and the only way to differentiate such products performance-wise is by comparative tests under localized conditions. Recent research has not disproved the old rule of thumb that a 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 ratio of N-Po0 5 -K 2 0 is a pretty good turfgrass balance. Another old rule of thumb was one pound of available nitrogen per 1000 ft 2 per month of growing season. Golf putting greens require up to 50% higher rates of application than these general turf recommendations. Frequently we hear questions about utilizing our turfgrass areas to consume sewage and solid wastes which are being produced at rates approaching seven pounds per capita per day. Certainly turfgrasses are an excellent way to finish off the land fill type of waste disposal. Research has shown that the two components of treated sewage, sludge and effluent, can be used in turfgrass production. Waste water from treatment facilities has also been used successfully. (For a more complete discussion of this subject, I refer you to WSU's Dr. David Bezdicek's article in the August 1974 issue of Golf Superintendent.) POSSIBLE NEW FERTILIZER MATERIALS Mention was made earlier of Pennzoil's potassium polyphosphate development. Much more activity is under way on nitrogen materials. TVA is actively researching urea-ammonium phosphate (UAP), from which grades such as 28-28-0 and 36-18-0 can be produced by ammoniating wet-process phosphoric acid to form a melt which is combined with concentrated urea solution and granulated. The product is a mixture of urea, ammonium ortho-phosphates and ammonium poly-phosphates. UAP would compete with DAP and MAP, and be blended with urea, DAP, CSP and potash to produce a wide range of high analysis, complete fertilizers. The 36-18-0 product cannot be mixed with super phosphates. Another possibility in the urea family of fertilizers is urea ammonium sulfate (UAS). Grades between 34-0-0-1 OS and 40-0-0-4S have been made by granulating crystalline ammonium sulfate with urea. Such products could represent an outlet for by-product ammonium sulfate should it become available in large amounts, and would be an excellent material in the sulfurdeficient Pacific Northwest. Most of us have heard about or had experience with sulfurcoated urea (SCU). This is a controlled release product developed by TVA and soon to be produced in a demonstration-scale plant. Granulated urea is sprayed with molten sulfur and sealed with wax or other sealant. The main objective in developing this product is to provide a more uniform supply of nitrogen than is obtained via a single application of conventional water-soluble nitrogen sources. The rate of nitrogen release can be controlled by varying the thickness of the sulfur coating. Total coatings by weight normally are varied from 14% through 21%, producing grades ranging from 40-0-0-9S to 36-0-0-16S. Costs for coating normally add about 30% more per unit of nitrogen than uncoated urea. SUMMARY I have tried to highlight the current fertilizer situation and relate it to your interest in turfgrasses. A somewhat timid peek into the crystal ball was attempted, all of which leaves me in an optimistic frame of mind. We need a lot more research on fertilizer efficiency under major soil and climatic conditions in our region. I urge you to continue your support of programs like that of Roy Goss. By support I mean moral and financial. I subscribe to the expression "we've come a long way, baby" but equally important to me is the fact that we have a long way to go. THE PRESENT AND FUTURE PESTICIDES 1 STATUS OF Stan Frederiksen 2 First of all, my sincere thanks for the very genuine privilege of your inviting me to share with you another Northwest Turfgrass Conference. It's been several years since I've enjoyed this pleasure of being with all of you in this great Pacific Northwest, and I can assure you I'm relishing every moment of the experience. Once again I ponder the realization that I'll more than likely be taking home with me a lot more in the way of valuable information than I'll be able to contribute to your vast storehouse of knowledge. However, if I can just bring some thoughts, and perhaps some ideas, that will raise questions in your minds and possibly generate some good answers, I'll feel more than amply rewarded. When we begin to explore the vast subject of "pesticides," particularly during these days of confusion and uncertainty on practically all fronts, we literally open up a real "Pandora's box" -- or a real "bag of worms." For "openers," let's consider the meaning of the word itself. A simple dictionary definition says that a "pesticide" is "an agent used to destroy pests." While the same dictionary says that a "pest" is "an epidemic disease associated with high mortality," however, it causes some concern and eyebrow-raising in most of our minds, because in the field of highly maintained turf, the word "pest" usually (not always) means something ]_/ To be presented to the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington, September 16 - 19, 1975 y Manager, Turf Products, Mallinckrodt, Inc., St. Louis, MO entirely different. Even when we "zero in" more closely by limiting our meaning to "turf pests," we normally think first of insects ~ and of turf pesticides as primarily insecticides. In the broad definition actually envisioned by those having to do with pests and their control, the words "turf pests" actually apply to any agents whose activity in one way or another harms fine turf. Within this context then, pesticides must include not only insecticides, but also herbicides, rodenticides, fungicides, bactericides, or any other agents that are involved in maintaining fine turf in a healthy condition, and in getting rid of the competing forces, be they weeds, weedgrasses, fungi, or others, that seek to thwart or destroy that fine turf. Let's keep this important fact in mind, as we take a look at the overall present and future of turf pesticides. To get to the present, there had to be a "past." And so there was. Probably centuries ago the first pesticides came into being -- culminating in the market being literally flooded with thousands of pesticidal agents designed to control or eliminate one pest or another. It was largely through the advent of chemical pesticides that fine turf became really achievable, and economic crops became so abundant that a single farmer, in recent years, could grow enough crops and produce sufficient meat and other foods to feed thousands of people, whereas just a few short years ago it was difficult for a small farm family to feed and clothe itself adequately. The age of pesticides has truly been the age of plenty. Things in the pesticide world were moving forward with tremendous rapidity in the early sixties, when activity in the field of pesticides came to a crunching halt. Rachel Carson's book, "The Silent Spring," hit the market, and as is so often the case, people not only reacted -- they over-reacted. From the first day the book made its appearance, many people, particularly those who needed some sort of "cause" to espouse, began their crusade to "clean things up." The word "pesticide" suddenly became a naughty word. The words "ecology" and "pollution" and "environment" were thrust upon all of us, with ugly connotations. Normally level-headed people took up the cudgel, and became "instant ecologists" or "instant environmentalists," with absolutely no credentials whatever. "Natural foods" (grown without the help of chemical fertilizers), made their appearance. But, above all, the governments on the local, state and national levels stepped in to "control" the environment through the control of pesticides. Whereas foods had been cheap and plentiful, primarily because of the tremendous impact of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, it became more and more difficult to produce plentiful foods -- and more and more difficult to produce and maintain beautiful and healthy grass -- as one after the other, the old tried and true chemicals began to be "suspect," and soon were the subject of restrictions, limitations and bans. Quite likely Rachel Carson's purpose in writing her book was a truly noble one -- to focus attention upon the fact that chemical contamination was a very significant possibility, under many conditions, and to start some sensible thinking on the part of everyone toward using great care in the production and use of pesticides. Little did she think, in my humble opinion, that the impact of the book would actually be to negate research in the development of more and better foods, ornamentals and turfgrasses -- and to cause the escalation of prices in the marketplace of foods and other growing crops to unbelievable heights. One of the first recognizable effects of "The Silent Spring" was a phenomenal "panicking" by the Federal Government. Almost every fault that could be thought of was suddenly found with just about every pesticide available. Federal agencies, armed with powers delegated to them by an equally panicking Congress, began removing from the marketplace all pesticides they could find that had actual1y caused any harm, either to people or to the "environment" -- BUT -- in addition, they started banning all that they felt "might," under any circumstances they could think of, however remote, create some sort of problem, whether there had ever been such problem reported in connection with the product or not. Further, the "possibility" of causing harm was not limited to that associated with people. The words "balance of nature" -- and "endangered species" -- and others -began to appear. One "society" or another began worrying about whether, in the next 15 or 20 years, the "purple-crested-thinga-ma-bob" would become extinct because of the impact in the "environment" of one chemical pesticide or another. Strangely enough, not very much attention has been paid to the really basic question -- "Should the world be made safe and adaptable for people? -- or for 'endangered species'"? Several significant observations can be made as to what has happened since "The Silent Spring" to bring us to where we now stand, at present, with respect to pesticides and their use. There are many, but let's enumerate just a few: 1. Gone from the marketplace are many of the important pesticides that enabled the growing of plentiful and inexpensive foods -- and sturdy and beautiful fine turf. Few of these ever were found to cause any real problems -- but (found the government agencies) they "just might" cause a problem -- so "let's get rid of them." 2. Gone is the incentive, on the part of the important chemical companies, to any significant research to the development of new pesticides of any kind. Why should they? Whereas formerly there was a chance or two in a hundred that any given pesticide compound might "make it," and become a commercially-available product, this has now dwindled to a chance or two in several thousand. 3. Gone is the source from which came many of your turf pesticides -- that source being the vast arsenal of food crop pesticides. A chemical company seldom, if ever, would start work on any pesticide screening and development process just for turf. Why? Simply because "turf" is such a small segment of the "agriculture" business that the expense of anyone getting a significant market share of this turf segment, coupled with the increasingly low probability of success in the light of present regulations, literally prohibits any work toward new turf pesticides. 4. Following publication of "The Silent Spring," when big economic crop pesticide manufacturers found their warehouses bulging with pesticides they suddenly couldn't sell because some government agencies had banned them from food use, an article appeared in a nationally circulated turf magazine, to the fact that a $14,000,000 fungicide market was available among golf courses. Producers whose pesticides no longer could be used on food crops rightly reasoned that very few people eat grass -- and that therefore their materials would find ready acceptance in the field of turfgrass maintenance. A vast array of new "turf" pesticides began to appear -- the same ones that had been banned from food use, but under different brand names, and sometimes in different formulations than before. Chemical companies never before in the turf industry were suddenly right there -- all wanting a piece of that $14,000,000 pie. The real fact was that the "$14,000,000 pie" didn't exist! The magazine writer who developed the figure was "off-base" by a factor of at least 3 -- the real turf fungicide market was no more than a third or less of the $14,000,000 reported -- so that many of the companies who launched bravely into the turf market with their products have since withdrawn them, and a number have left the marketing of turf chemicals entirely. 5. Monsanto was a tremendous stalwart, right after "The Silent Spring," in publishing a resounding rebuttal to that now infamous book. If you'd like to see what the world would really be like without pesticides, take a look at their MONSANTO MAGAZINE issue of October 1962, in which on page 4 you'll find an article titled "THE DESOLATE YEAR." It depicts the world as it would be without pesticides. To tell the truth, it presents a rather frightening picture in that it shows how tenuous is the slender thread that holds together human civilization, and how, without pesticides, the earth would literally be overrun by insects and diseases, just about eliminating the human race. The fact is, all the pesticides we've ever had could only hold antagonistic pests "in check." In no way could all of them be eliminated. Witness even today, in your continuing battle against turf pests, how many fungi have adapted to so many fungicides and become completely resistant to them. Witness also, how many insect pests have begun to resist control by so many insecticides. If you want further evidence of the resistance of insects to just about everything, be sure to see a really fantastic motion picture, "THE HELSTR0M CHRONICLE." It shows that insects of practically all kinds, can adapt to just about everything and that it may not be too far in the future when insects not humans -- will rule the world. That is, unless mankind can continue its pressure on the world of insects and other pests, and constantly develop more and better controls -largely, of course, in terms of pesticides. 6. Is pesticide research "dead"? Maybe not quite, but it's rapidly approaching that intolerable condition. When I talked several years back with Dr. John Shred, the famous entomologist at the University of Connecticut, at a March turf conference in the Northeast, he told me that at that time of year just several years before, he had been in the year's first quarter, screening some hundreds of compounds as candidate insecticides. During the current quarter, he told me he had received from chemical companies only two candidate compounds. See how strongly this reinforces the conviction that chemical firms will simply not invest time, money or effort in any project that has practically no chance for commercial success -- this being especially true these days as regards pesticides. 7. Over-reaction has also made itself felt at the state level. More and more states, primarily because of pressure from small "environmentalist" groups, are introducing their own state bans on pesticides, whether there is real basis for this action or not, and are imposing almost intolerable regulations and restrictions. An example is the state of California, where anyone who even "recommends" the use of a pesticide must have a permit or license -- not only for the state itself, but in every county of the state in which that pesticide is sold and/or recommendations made! Can you imagine the horrendous load of work this type of regulation puts on a user, a seller or a "recommender"? It's just about enough to "turn off" everyone, forget pesticides and let the pests "take over" by default. 8. Another part of the untenable present pesticide situation is the practically impossible registration procedure. As you know, whereas formerly all pesticides had to be registered with the USDA, the key agency is now the EPA. Undoubtedly the EPA has great intentions of making the current laws and regulations work for everyone, with the health and safety of the people in mind. However, whereas it was formerly a good possibility that a new pesticide could achieve registration in just a couple of weeks or so after submission, any company trying now for a registration can figure it will take a year or more, and possibly three or four attempts, with many "dotted i's and crossed t's" checked through by all kinds of people in a number of government agencies, for a given pesticide registration to mature and become a fact. Such items as "a statement of environmental impact" -- and vast "residue studies" -- and "feeding studies" over several years (when edible crops are involved), "establishment numbers" on labels -- and other time- consuming details are now just about standard in the registration of any pesticide -- enough to scare away all but the most tenacious and persevering companies wishing to serve the agricultural and turf industries. When you hear of increased prices, from here one, applied to your pesticides, you might remember that while part of them may be increased labor or raw material costs, the greatest part is the tremendous expense of getting and maintaining registration, with attendant frequent trips, phone calls, correspondence, etc., to and with Washington, as well as the various individual states. 9. The great lessening of pesticide research was mentioned earlier. The true extent of this reduction can only be realized when you begin hearing that a company, here and there, is completely abolishing their pesticide research facilities and terminating their people, and that a number of experiment stations, formerly very strong in agricultural and turf pesticide research, have either cut back or eliminated this from their programs. 10. Again, a persistent reason given for removing from the market many of the major pesticides that have served well over the years is the fact that such materials are either potentially carcinogenic ("might" -- not "will" result in possible malignancies) or will have an adverse effect on the "environment," possibly getting into "the food chain" (another favorite phrase of the environmentalists). Most people will admit, I think, that indiscriminate airplane spraying of toxic substances over wide areas can pose potentially serious problems. But this is entirely different from (for example) a qualified turf manager spraying a few ounces of a mercurial fungicide on a putting green where it has actually been proved that mercurial cannot move in any direction but downward (never laterally) so that there can be no probability of pollution of nearby waters, cannot get into the "food chain" via lateral movement into a pond or stream, and certainly cannot be ingested by people, because no people I know of have ever been found eating grass -- particularly that cut at a 3/16 inch height on a putting green. Now, where does all this find us at present, with respect to those pesticides we need to manage fine turf? Several conclusions are pretty obvious: 1. Look for very few new pesticides over the next several years, at least. 2. Look for the loss of a large number of the pesticides you've been accustomed to use routinely. In October of 1976, al 1 federal registrations of pesticides will expire, as I understand it, and all new registrations will have to be submitted. You can bet your bottom dollar that the EPA intends to eliminate all those that they feel are not needed, or that a few pseudo-ecologists feel are not needed, simply by refusing to renew their registrations after October 1976. What you need, or what you deem necessary for your operation, appears to be of little significance. 3. Be prepared to "get by" with a much smaller choice of pesticides than you've ever had before. You'll be expected to "take what you can get" -- and be satisfied with that. No matter that what you use just might not work. 4. Watch for alternative methods of disease, insect and weed control. The era of "biological controls" may be close at hand -- or perhaps control of pests with sophisticated electronic devices not yet even foreseen. 5. Pests likely will increase their activity to where, perhaps, intolerable conditions for the public may force a change in government thinking to the point where they'll really have to decide whether to control pests, or choose the alternative of letting the pests overwhelm people. (Slides were shown) It has been found that if the average superintendent has to make a choice of eliminating from his arsenal of management "tools" one or the other of the maintenance items he now has to work with, the last thing he would stop using would be his pesticides. He can always make a greens or fairway mower last another year via judicious maintenance and repairs -- he can always let his turf get less thrifty with fewer fertilizer applications -- he can always "live with" less well-mowed turf, particularly in out-ofthe-way parts of his roughs and some fairways. But he simply cannot maintain fine turf, particularly putting greens, without good pesticides -- at least as of now. What's to be done? That part is largely up to you. You can either "hold still" and put up with whatever restrictions or regulations are thrown at you, OR you can DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT! Write your congressman! Write your senator! Work through your association, and its fine membership, to let the "powers that be" know that in order to pursue your very rewarding career you need good "tools" -- especially your pesticides! Just because something "might," at some future date, cause some sort of problem, is no reason to ban it or deny future registration, when the product in question might be one that has been performing as a pesticide for over 50 years, with excellent results — and having caused NO PROBLEMS UP TO NOW! The mercurial fungicides are a prime example of this. On the other hand, a number of routine items of commerce, readily available over the counter to anyone, at any age, appear to be far more dangerous. It has been said, for example, that ordinary aspirin causes more deaths every year than all pesticides combined, for any purpose whatever. Officials often will ban a pesticide, or something else, because it has the potential to "pullute" the atmosphere. Reducing auto exhaust emission with expensive devices is a prime example of this philosophy. When one really does some objective thinking, he begins to realize that what man can do to pollute the atmosphere is infinitesimal, compared with what can be -arid i_s — by natural forces. In an article I read recently, the author, in speaking of atmosphere pollution, asserted that back in the 1880's, when the volcano, Mount Krakatoa, exploded and the entire island sank below the sea, it threw into the atmosphere more particulate pollutants than has all of mankind since the world began! Add to that one incident the volcanoes that continue erupting around the world every day, the frequent dust storms and sand storms, the forest fires that are almost constant over the globe, and you'll readily see that man's impact is literally non-existant. You'll also see why the article in question carried the very provocative title, "THE EARTH IS ITS OWN WORST POLLUTER." Why do I contend that you are the key to the future of good pesticides? Because you are the ones the officials will listen to -- as you are the ones most adversely affected by the potential absence of your important pesticides. A company like ours can make little impact. We can, and do, collect and present what facts we can, and as objectively as possible. Right now we're trying hard to maintain the important mercurials for you by appealing for their continuance in turf use during numerous trips to the EPA. But, by and large, if there are to be continuing good pesticides available to you, and more important, if commercial companies are to start again investing in research toward better pesticides for the future, and other more sophisticated pest controls, it is YOU who must generate action -- because it is you whose careers are at stake -- and therefore you who have most to gain by good pesticides -- and most to lose by their absence! LEAF AND TILLER GROWTH OF GRASSES AS AFFECTED BY TEMPERATURE MOWING AND OTHER PRACTICES 1 Victor B. Youngner 2 If we are to understand how various management practices and environmental factors affect turfgrass growth we must first know something about the vegetative structures of the grass plant. Compared to many higher plants the grasses are simple in structure and organization. Nevertheless, they are adapted to a wide range of conditions and have a broader distribution than any other family of flowering plants. In the vegetative phase the grass shoot apex is located above a short, extremely compact, stem at or just above the soil surface. At this stage the stem consists of a series of nodes from which the leaves arise; the internodes elongate only when the plant enters the reproductive phase. Of course, many grasses also have horizontal or creeping stems with elongated internodes (rhizomes or stolons) which makes them especially valuable for turf. These horizontal stems may turn up at the tip to form a new leafy shoot as do the rhizomes of Kentucky bluegrass, or they may give rise to new vertical shoots at their nodes as do the stolons and rhizomes of bermudagrass. ]_/ To be presented to the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington September 17 - 19, 1975 2/ Professor of Agronomy, University of California, Riverside, California Young leaves on the shoot apex appear as a series of concentric ridges. As these ridges elongate into leaves they separate into two parts -- the blade and sheath. The blade and sheath each have at their bases a meristematic region in which growth occurs by cell division. Buds which form in the axils of the leaves develop into new shoots or tillers. Each tiller can give rise to additional tillers in turn until a dense clump is formed. Many such clumps close together form a sod or turf. These characteristics -- the location of the shoot apex, the method of leaf growth and the spread by tillering -- are the ones that make grasses our most valuable turf plants and permit us to mow them closely time after time. A primary function of turf management is to regulate cultural practices in accordance with other environmental factors to maintain healthy vigorous plants that can withstand frequent and heavy use. In order to do so the turf manager must know how these practices affect growth under various environmental conditions. Tillering Tiller buds are initiated in the axils of leaves at an early age. Initiation of the bud appears to be influenced only slightly, if at all, by environmental conditions in most grasses. Usually one or more buds are formed in the axil of each leaf. However, subsequent development of the bud into a tiller, rhizome or stolon is affected by a number of factors. Under unfavorable conditions many buds will never develop into tillers. Tillering of cool season grasses is favored by short to medium daylengths (10-12 hours) and moderate temperatures (60-75°F). Therefore, in most regions maximum tillering will occur during spring and fall. The precise optimum temperatures will vary according to genotype or strain. For example, Newport Kentucky bluegrass, selected along the cool Oregon Coast, has a considerably lower optimum than such strains as Merion and Fylking. During periods of very high temperatures, well above the optimum, tillering of cool season grasses may nearly cease. Soil temperature, distinct from air temperature, also affects tillering rates. The optimum soil temperatures for tillering of the grasses studied are several degrees lower than the optimum air temperatures. High light intensity favors a high tillering rate. For this reason turf density is usually lower under shade than in areas of full sunlight. Shade-tolerant grasses such as the red fescues have a lower optimum light intensity than do Kentucky bluegrasses or ryegrasses. Nutrient supply strongly affects tillering, nitrogen generally being of much greater importance than phosphorus or potash. Studies on some non-turf grasses have shown that at low nitrogen levels the proportion of buds developing into rhizomes in contrast to tillers was much greater than at high nitrogen levels. Although, to my knowledge, this has not been investigated in the turf grasses, such a relationship if it exists could be of considerable significance. There is no doubt that high turf density from tillers and rhizomes is dependent upon adequate levels of nitrogen. However, there is some evidence that very high nitrogen levels will reduce the production of rhizomes and tillers; perhaps an incipient salinity effect. The management practice most dramatically affecting tillering and growth in general is mowing. The repeated removal of leaf tissue usually has an adverse effect not only on tillering rate but on total dry matter production, root growth and soluble carbohydrate levels as well. Most studies have shown that growth declines directly with increased frequency or increased severity (closeness) of mowing. An exception to this rule is found when elongated stems (stolons or flowering culms) are removed. Tillering or stolon branching is usually stimulated in these cases, apparently resulting from a removal of inhibitors found in the shoot apex which has been clipped off. Kentucky bluegrass cultivars have been shown to differ in their tolerance to mowing even where the same proportions of leaf tissue were removed. This has been attributed to differences in photosynthetic activity especially in the leaf sheath. In evaluating the significance of these environmental effects to a turf management program several points must be considered. Individual tillers behave to a great extent like individual plants even though they are interconnected. Each tiller has its own root system which supplies it with water and nutrients. Translocation of water, nutrients or the carbohydrates synthesized in the leaves from one tiller to another is not free but usually occurs only under rather specific conditions. In rather unscientific terms, we can say that each tiller attempts to satisfy all its own needs before giving anything to other tillers. The primary exception to this is that translocation to young tillers from the parent tiller takes place readily until the young tiller is able to survive alone. Thus, we have within a clump of grass intense intertiller competition for light, water and nutrients. The environmental management factors we have discussed do not act on the plant alone or singly. Instead they play upon the plant simultaneously and interact with each other. Thus, one factor will either mitigate or intensify the effects of another, as the case might be. For example, the growth depressing effects of a given mowing height will be intensified as temperatures increase. On the other hand, as temperatures increase in the summer the harmful effects of the high temperatures can be reduced by raising the height of cut. If the turf is shaded the temperature mowing effects will be further modified. Leaf Growth The rate at which leaves appear on a single grass shoot varies with the genotype of the plant and with environment. However, for any given genotype under constant environmental conditions the rate will be constant. Although for the most part they are as yet poorly defined, every grass species or variety has an optimum set of conditions for maximum rate of leaf emergence. The same factor interaction effect mentioned previously also applies to leaf emergence and leaf growth. Leaf growth following emergence can be measured in terms of leaf width, length, weight or area. A common measure is the total leaf area per shoot (tiller). On many grasses leaf length increases with increasing daylength. On the other hand, leaf length may also increase with decreasing light intensity. Nitrogen fertility profoundly affects leaf growth producing longer and wider leaves and a higher rate of leaf emergence. Thus nitrogen is one of the most important factors in increasing total leaf area per shoot. Studies on Kentucky bluegrass cultivars have shown that mowing intensity has much less effect on leaf emergence rates than it does on tiller emergence rates. Of course, total leaf area per shoot will decrease as the proportion removed from each leaf is increased. The decrease in total leaf area per plant may be made even greater by a decrease in leaf width with increased mowing intensity that we have observed on many species. On an individual grass shoot the first formed leaves began to die after a certain number appear and under constant conditions leaf death occurs at the same rate as leaf emergence. Thus, under constant conditions there will be a specific number of leaves per shoot that will be characteristic for a variety or genotype. Since factors such as light and temperature affect both the rate of leaf emergence and leaf death as well as the rate of tiller development the total leaf area per unit area of ground may change dramatically from spring to summer. Root Growth Brief mention of root growth must be made since the condition of a turf's root system will strongly affect top growth and thus the quality of the turf. Optimum temperatures for root growth generally are considerably below the optimums for top growth. This is true whether we are considering air temperature or soil temperature. Root growth has been observed on some grasses when temperatures were too low for any measurable top growth. Conversely, as temperatures increase, root growth of many cool season grasses may cease long before any pronounced reduction of top growth can be observed. Under very high temperatures root dieback may occur. Mowing has a dramatic affect on root growth -- even more pronounced than its affect on leaf and tiller development. Since root growth is dependent upon the carbohydrates synthesized in the tops, the greater the reduction in leaf area the weaker will be the root system. The interaction between temperature and mowing is pronounced. Intense leaf removal during hot weather can stop all root growth or cause severe dieback. The end result may often be a thinning or complete loss of turf. Nitrogen fertilization while it stimulates leaf and tiller growth may often retard root growth thus increasing the shoot to root ratio. It is clearly evident then that the turf's root system can be protected during hot weather by reducing nitrogen levels and increasing the mowing height. Doing the opposite may be fatal to the turf. BUDGETING FOR PARKS AND GOLF COURSES 1 Albert D. Angove 2 I'm not sure what it means to be on the program at 8:30 a.m. Either one of two things, "He is a dynamic speaker and everyone will be out of bed for his presentation," or "He is an abstainer so we know he will stay sober and not have a hangover." One quick look around and I can see which is true. Because budgets are economics, I believe we should look at some economic facts: 1. Labor prices are up. 2. Inflation, althqugh leveling off somewhat, is still rising. 3e Materials, especially those of underground extraction, are becoming scarce. 4. And, as gas becomes more expensive, the need for local services will increase. y To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington, September 17 19, 1975 2/ Director of Parks and Recreation, Spokane, Washington What does this mean? It means when you and I are making out a budget request for 1976, we will have to look at some of these economic facts. Your 1975 dollar has less purchasing power and things do not look much brighter for 1976. I am sure all of you realize this already. And, what can we do about it? We are going to have to take a hard, honest look at the budget and list each item in the order of importance to the operation. Beginning with personnel, take a good realistic look at the number of people you employ, justify each man by his duties and performance and the real value that person contributes to your operation. It's very easy to fall into the "I need another man" trap, when what you really need is to reorganize your way of doina things, or get rid of the non-producers. If you are going to control finances, you need to start with the largest expenditure - labor - the number of manhours it takes to perform the task needed. I am stressing manpower because this is generally 60 to 80% of your budget. Equipment falls under the same category; we all like a shop full of up-to-date equipment, but how much of it really pays for itself in the reduction of manhours? At this point you are saying, "All this is well and good, but how do we really do the budget justification he is talking about," or "We've been doing this same thing for years." I am sure this talk is like another on top dressing, you know all the techniques but just may have forgotten one or two things. How do we do a justification of a budget? Using an old cliche, we take pen and paper in hand and write out what each employee does, includinq your job, and how many hours it takes to perform each task, i.e., greens mowing, number of men x time x hour wage = total cost per job. For equipment, take the cost of the machine, such as a greensmower or a triplex: greensmower - 6 needed 0 $600 each = $3600, with a life span of 5 years; triplex - 1 needed 0 $5000 each with a life span of 5 years. Discounting the quality of the cut, since people disagree on this, and maintenance factors for now, let's look at the cost benefit of the above equipment. For example, it takes 3 people 4 hours to mow 18 greens and the wage is $2.00 per hour; the total cost of greens mowing is determined by 3x4x$2 = $24 = $1.33 per hole each day. If you use a triplex, it's 1 man x 2,5 hours x $5 per 18 holes or approximately 27 aawivia Red Top Agsio*£a> alba 5,740,000 6,200,000 5,800,000 5,800,000 8,200,000 4,800,000 Bluegrasses Canada blue Voa aompn,&>Aa 2,500,000 Merion blue Voa psiatznAiA 2,200,000 Kentucky blue Voa pnatznAiA 2,177,000 Annual blue Voa annua 1,200,000 Rough blue (shadyland blue)Poa &vLvlaLa> 2,500,000 Fescues Creeping red-chewings VeAtuca nubm Hard fescue F&6tuca ovlna Tall, Meadow Alta VeAtuca cVLundinacza 545,000 550,000 227,000 Ryegrasses Annual, Perennial Lotium peAmne. Orchardgrass VactyLa* glomeAaXa Smooth brome B/ionuA ¿neAmu Timothy Vklzum ptuatdnAz White Clover TsUfiolium sizpznA 227,000 465,000 113,000 1 ,200,000 680,000 Weeds Hairgrass VeAtuca oapMJLaJja Black medic Mzdicago luputina Velvetgrass HOICUA lanatuA 1 ,450,000 265,000 1,520,000 ]_/ Adapted from WSU Seed Testing Laboratory and from 0. M. Scott Proturf Professional Seminar 1974 How does this all go together? Look at a recommended mixture for western Washington lawn turf. Recommended seeding rate lb/1000 sq ft Variety % of mix by 2.5 Kentucky blue 62 1.0 Red fescue 25 Bentgrass 12 .5 Actual Seed count % No. Seed per lb Rec. Seeding % 62 x 2,177,000 1,349,740 52 K.B. 25 x 545,000 136,250 05 R.F. 12 x 9,000,000 1 ,080,000 43 Bent 2,565,990 Thus, instead of 12% bent, you are actually planting 43% bentgrass based on number of seeds per pound. Let us turn our attention from the mechanical purity of seed, i.e., the percent purity % weeds, and % germination — to a somewhat different concept, that of genetic purity. Actually, genetic purity refers to the varietal purity. If you want Merlon or Fylktng bluegrass, you should be able to be sure that is what you are buying and not an inferior variety turfwise. There is no easy way you can look at the seed and tell if the variety is Merion. You cannot tell the difference between the seed of Colonial and Seaside bentgrass. Seeds of Koket creeping red are indistinguishable from those of Checker or Olds, creeping red fescue. The certification program was developed in the U.S. to provide a pedigree system of record keeping, plus a field and processing plant supervision program that will insure a high level of variety purity. Thus, if it is important to you to have the performance of a known and recommended variety, you should add the requirement of variety certification for genetic purity to that of the mechanical purity required by state and federal seed laws. Most of the superior varieties are now available as certified seed. In Washington there is a truly elite seed quality now available called "sod quality" seed. This is seed produced . under standards of purity, germination and certification designed to satisfy the sod grower. Amongst important standards for sodquality bluegrass, red fescue and chewing fescue is that the „ seed must be free of ryegrass, orchard, timothy, bentgrass, Canada blue, rough bluegrass, smooth brome, tall fescue, reed canary grass and clover. Weed seeds prohibited include annual blue, chickweed, plantain, dock, crabgrass and all noxious weeds. There are several leading seed companies who handle sod quality seed. One additional program you should know about is the annual bluegrass quarantine area whereby all grass seed stocks brought into eastern Washington must be sampled and tested by the Washington State Department of Agriculture Seed Division officials and found to be free of ?oa annua prior to planting for seed production. This procedure is important in keeping annual bluegrass out of the seed-producing fields in this area, and it is an essential link in the effort to keep the seed industry producing high quality seed. This, coupled with the expanded ?oa annua control program of Dr. Goss and Mr. Cook, which can be applied not only to turf on golf courses but also to seed fields of turf grasses, will insure top quality seed from the Washington Seed Industry. YOU — YOUR GOLF COURSE — 1 AND THE TURFGRASS CONSULTANT W. H. Bengeyfield 2 There is an old English proverb which goes: "If I give you a penny and you give me a penny -- neither of us will be any richer. But if you give me an idea and I give you an idea -- then we are both richer!" And so consulting had this meager beginning. There are times when the golf course superintendent today receives more advice than he can possibly handle. All 500 members know more about growing grass on the course than he does. The club manager, the golf professional, the salesman, his wife, the conferences, thé university, the Green Section,-everyone is in the game! But a wise man once said, "advice is only as good as its source," and that immediately eliminates a lot of people. Recently this illustration of the value of a good consultant came to my attention. It seems a consulting engineer was called in, for $100, by a manufacturer to solve the problem of a balky but essential piece of machinery on the assembly line. Finally, after looking at the idle machine for a few minutes, To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, September 17-19, 1975, Yakima, WA. y Western Director, United States Golf Association, Green Section, Tustin, CA. the engineer picked up a hammer and gave it 2 or 3 terrific blows. It immediately worked! The plant manager, thinking $100 was an awful lot of money for such a simple task, asked the consultant to itemize his bill. Within a few days it arri ved: For hitting machine with hammer For knowing WHERE to hit machine with hammer $10 $90 We assume the plant manager paid off. IN THE BEGINNING Turfgrass consultants are the product of today's technology and golfer demands. At the turn of the century, grazing sheep were still used for mowing and nuturinq the grass on golf courses. The lawnmower may have been invented in England in the 1830's, but it was slow in being accepted and adopted to horse drawn equipment. Besides, it was too expensive. Golf as a pastoral game. Then, two explosions occurred in the early 1900's that would change golf forever. An obscure caddy in Massachusetts by the name of Francis Ouimet beat the world's greatest golfers of the day, Englishmen Vardon and Ray, in the U. S. Open Championship in 1913! The popularity of golf in the United States soared. About the same time, agricultural science had budded and was about to bloom. The USGA, a non-profit organization started in 1894, sponsored publication of a new book in 1917, "Turf for Golf Courses" by Drs. Piper and Oakley of the United States Department of Agriculture. These men were not only scientists, but golfers as well. Throughout the country, golfers recognized the need for better, more dependable playing surfaces. Agricultural science would now serve golf. The first consulting service, indeed the fist advisory and scientific agency in turfgrass management was formed in November, 1920. It was called the Green Section of the United States Golf Association. Today, the USGA Green Section remains the only agency in the country devoted solely to golf course turf, its playing conditions and its management. It was and still is a leader in its field. From the beginning, the Green Section has been involved in turfgrass advancements and direct assistance to the golf superintendent. Since World War II, over one million dollars has been devoted to turfgrass research by this agency! Herb Graffis, former Owner and Editor of Golfdom magazine has said, "The USGA's Green Section is the biggest bargain any sports organization—amateur or professional—gives its players and public." Some of the major accomplishments to date include: — Effective and safe control of devastating turfgrass diseases. Although developed in the late 1920 1 s and 1930's, these methods are still in use today. -- Selection and development of improved turfgrasses including Merion bluegrass, the "C" strains of bentgrass, Meyers zoysia and many bermudas. — Researched 2,4-D as a material for broadleaf weed control on golf courses. -- Pioneered a method of putting green construction and physical soil analysis now in worldwide use. -- Supported research in the techniques and machinery to minimize soil compaction. -- Since the early 1930's, has supported continual research in turfgrass nutritional requirements. -- Published the first book in the field of "Turf Management. " -- Turfgrass wear and traffic studies have been initiated including those caused by the golf shoe spike. -- Supported basic studies on Poa annua. — Continual support of turfgrass breeding projects particularly in bluegrasses, bentgrasses and bermudas. -- Renovation techniques for greens, tees and fairways. Through the 1940 1 s and 1950 1 s, the Green Section urged state universities and experiment stations to offer courses and conferences and undertake research in turfgrass management. The University Extension Service was encouraged to become involved with the dissemination of turfgrass facts and late research information. With growing technical knowledqe, there was a need to share and exchange information among all of those interested in professional turfgrass advancement. The truism, "no one has all the answers" is just as applicable today as it was when the cave man first emerged. FOR THE PRESENT Because so much technical information was available and not being widely used in the field, Green Section emphasis switched in 1950 from direct research and emergency visits to a regular consultation service available to USGA Member Clubs. Consultation is not new; professionals have always consulted with one another including doctors, lawyers, businessmen, farmers and even golf professionals. Today, the Green Section staff consists of 8 nationwide agronomists visiting over 900 golf courses annually. If "advice is only as good as its source", then this staff offers a limitless reservoir of information gleaned from background, experience and performance. Happily, it has nothing to sell; no axes to grind. It is an independent agency completely free of commercial bias. For less than 1/3 of 1% of most maintenance budgets today, ($360 for an 18- to 27-hole course) the Green Section Service is available to all interested clubs. In many instances, one bit of Green Section advice has saved a club many times the cost of the Service. It has helped advance the cause of quality turf for golf over the years and by utilizing its services, any club can improve its golf course and its playing conditions. But what of the private consultant? He is slowly but surely coming on the scene. At the moment, Florida is his most active ground. The private consultant is usually a retired golf course superintendent, a golf professional or, increasingly, a commercial representati ve given a title such as "Field Service Specialist", "Counsellor", "Agronomist", -- anything but "salesman". Nevertheless, he is basically representing a commercial enterprise. Some private consultants come from university life. Active as well as retired university people have found the practice of consulting an interesting and rewarding career. The fees charged by the private consultant are extremely variable. They range from $300 to $5000 or even $10,000 depending on the services performed. The Extension Service offered by state universities is another source of consultation assistance. County Agricultural Agents are available in most counties and can offer sound, solid information in many scientific turfgrass management areas and there is no charge for their services. SOME TOUGH QUESTIONS AND TOUGH ANSWERS ON THE SUBJECT OF CONSULTANTS Q: With so many specialists available from all sources, why should a club spend money for a consultant? A: We think we may have already answered part of this question, i.e., "Good advice is only as good as its source". Many specialists are available today not only from state universities but from commercial firms, turf products salesmen, trade journals and scientific magazines. This is all to the good. Indeed, the more factual information one has, the better he will perform. Q: What can a consultant do? What are his limitations? A: A consultant can only be as effective as you permit him to be. Without your interest and good intentions, he can only fail. Both the club and the superintendent must have a desire to "move ahead" and achieve certain goals. When oriented to improvement and success, a good consultant can contribute immeasurably to their program. When teamed with the superintendent, he can strengthen the hand of the entire turf management operation. He can be "used" to gain goals unobtainable by any other means. Perhaps the best summation comes from a quotation of J. W. Jenks: "The inlet of a man's mind is what he learns; the outlet is what he accomplishes. If his mind is not fed by a continued supply of ideas which he puts to work with purpose, and if there is no outlet in action, his mind becomes stagnant. Such a mind is a danger to the individual who owns it and is useless to the community." Q: Who should request the services of a consultant? A: Hopefully, the superintendent! Calling on the services of a qualified consultant should never be inferred as a sign of incompetence. No one has a monopoly on knowledge or ideas. If the consultant is good, any club can benefit from his experience and ideas. Rather than a sign of incompetence, the services of a consultant prove a progressive and professional attitude on the part of the superintendent making the request. Q: What are the types of relationships which should be developed between the superintendent, club officials and the consultant? A: The ideal relationship is one and a mutual desire to achieve certain desire on the part of all concerned to golf course with the funds available. faction with mediocrity. of teamwork, cooperation goals. There must be a produce the best possible There must be a dissatis- Q: What can a superintendent do to help the consultant help him? A: The consultant carries with him a vast reservoir of ideas and experiences. However, he should not be the only source of ideas nor the only motivating factor. Basically, the superintendent should know what problems are the most important ones on his course and should have his own ideas for corrective action. Then, he should expect the consultant to comment, offer his experiences and suggestions and what he has seen others accomplish in this regard. There is nothing more defeating for a consultant to visit a course and have the superintendent say, "well, what do you want to see today?" The | superintendent should be the leader. He should have his own ideas of what needs to be accomplished. Then he can effectively "use" the consultant to gain these objectives in the most efficient and effective manner possible. Q: What should you expect from a consultant; at least from a USGA Green Section consultant? A: You should expect to be a better superintendent and have a better golf course within 2 or 3 years. You should expect to be kept up to date on research and program review. After all, two heads are better than one. You should expect honesty, new ideas, openness, unbiased recommendations, support, understanding and fairness, encouragement and professionalism. You should not expect to be second-guessed, embarrassed or to receive phony praise. Honest praise, yes! Manufactured praise -- NO! Q: What can a superintendent do when a consultant is called in without his okay? A: The first thing I would do would be to ask myself, "how did this situation develop in the first place?" The answer often lies in the fact that something has gone wrong with turf management operations. At times a superior feels the need for additional information or possibly different results on the golf course. He is looking for a new approach, another evaluation perhaps and the wise superintendent will use the situation to his own ultimate benefit. Remember, the consultant is not after the superintendent's job. He is not interested in holding your salary down. His progress and effectiveness comes only from helping you do the best possible job under your conditions. Q: How about a "do-it-yourself" program; i.e., a Consulting Committee from the local Superintendent Association Chapter? A: Many Superintendent Associations have tried this approach only to find it ineffective and a thankless task for those members on the Committee. Unfortunately, club officials see such a committee as a biased one primarily interested in "saving" the superintendent's image rather than "saving" the golf course. Personalities and politics are also involved. Q: Do you really need a consultant? A: It depends on what you mean by "need". If we are talking about basic needs, i.e., survival, all anyone really "needs" is food, fibre and shelter. You surely don't "need" a turfgrass consultant. In fact, we don't "need" golf courses in this situation. But in the normal run of things, a good consultant can be one of the most valuable professional tools in anyone's arsenal. He can be a positive force. He can be used effectively in innumerable ways in order to achieve your objectives and your goals. He can help make you more valuable to your club by contributing to your program. PUTTING IT ON THE LINE Like golf cars, whether you like them or not, consultants are a fact of life! Indeed, they grow in numbers with each passing year. Some are good. Some are bad. Some have ulterior motives. Some do not. Some are effective while others fail. But consultants--!ike them or not--seem here to stay. It is the wise man who will use them to his advantage. SNOW MOLD CONTROL WITH FUNGICIDES 1 D. K. Taylor 2 After four years of trials on at least three golf courses in the B.C. Interior, single late October applications of three fungicides have been particularly promising for Typkula spp. control. With one exception, Caloclor at 5 oz/M has given excellent control at a rather heavy rate, which does result in slight temporary injury to the turf in early spring. Of the non-mercurials, Tersan SP (chloroneb) at 9 oz/M has been the most effective fungicide at five out of six locations where the trials have been located. The 9 oz rate gave more complete control than the 6 oz rate in the 1974-75 trial at Trail, but the 6 oz rate was equally effective at the Vernon and Revelstoke locations. Chloroneb applied in the granular form at a rate equal to the 9 oz/M Tersan SP was equally effective to the spray application. The other promising fungicide has been Terraclor (PCNB) which approaches Tersan SP in effectiveness at most locations but the control is seldom as complete. In the 1974-75 trials, the best results with this fungicide were obtained at the 10 oz/M rate. In 1971-72 at 108 Mile the most northerly test location, it was the only effective fungicide tested, including Caloclor. Fertilizers containing PCNB have given similar results to spray applications at the same rate of fungicide application. In addition, Terraclor can be recommended as an economical spray for the reduction of snow mold in areas surrounding the green. ]_/ To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington, September 17 19, 1975 2/ Head, Crop Science Section, Canada Department of Agriculture, Agassiz, B.C., Canada Mixtures of Tersan SP and Terraclor at half rates have given good results particularly at 108 Mile but on the average not better than Tersan SP at the 9 oz/M rate at other locations. Tersan 1991 applied at the end of October was effective for Typhoid control only at one location in one year. Control of VuAa/ilum wtvalz by this fungicide was marginal at all locations in 1974-75 and less effective than most of the other trial fungicides. Varietal differences in snow mold severity were evident in 1974-75 trial at Trail where the test involved two varieties. Penncross had a higher and more severe incidence of Typhula snow mold that was more difficult to control than Old Shaughnessy. However, the opposite response prevailed for fuAcvUum which was more difficult to control on the Old Shaughnessy variety. Percentage snowmold at Trail, B.C. 1974-75 Penncross Old Shaughnessy Typhula Gheck 60.0 45.0 Mean all treatments 16.4 2.2 20.5 20.0 0.0 3.7 TuAaAlum Check Mean all treatments IDAHO TURFGRASS OBSERVATIONAL TRIALS 1 Ron Ensign2 Plantings of 46 bluegrasses, 12 fine leaf fescues, 4 perennial ryegrasses, 2 turf timothy, and 6 bentgrasses were made in 1972 and 1973 in 5' x 15' plots. The grasses, with the exception of the bents, have been clipped at 2-inch and 3-inch heights to conform with good lawn mowing practices. The bentgrasses were all mowed at 3/4" level. Recommended turfgrass nutrition levels were applied. Frequent notes have been taken on spring regrowth, color, overall quality and diseases for the past three seasons. The following is a summary of some outstanding features of these observation plots: Spring Regrowth for Bluegrasses Early Green Up Adelphi Arboretum Delta Garfield Park Sydsport P. 142 (Touchdown) P. 164 Late Green Up Nugget Cougar Fylking Pennstar Prato y To be presented to the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington September 17 - 19, 1975 2/ Professor of Agronomy (Forages & Turf), University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho The fine leaf fescues green up similar to the early bluegrass varieties and the perennial ryegrass vary but are slightly later than the early bluegrasses. The Nugget variety is exceptionally late in greening up and thus retains a light brown color into mid-April at this location. Color May-Sept. Darker Green Lighter Green Adelphi Glade (P-29) Nugget P-142 Ram #1 Aquilla Continental Galaxy Sodco Bonnieblue Arboretum Delta Warren's A-34 Kenblue Park K-1-139 K-l-155 P-59 Parade Six Troy K2-100 Ryegrass and bentgrasses are relatively lighter green color especially in the early part of the season. Canada bluegrasses, Voci &iivlaLa>, and the timothy varieties all produce poor color appearance when managed at these mowing heights. The fine leaf fescues have medium color appearances with C-26 hard fescue giving the best dark green color. Overall Quality (Color & Texture) 2" Mowing 3" Mowing Glade Newport Nugget Pennstar Ram #1 Continental Galaxy Majestic Aquilla Baron Cougar Fy Iking Glade Nugget Ram #1 Continental Galaxy Sodco Majestic Diseases H dimlwtko^ ponltm VCLQCLVIA - Leaf spot - Fall 1974 No or Low Infection Moderately-High Infection Adelphi Baron Bonnieblue Fy Iking Galaxy Glade Majestic Merion Nugget Pennstar P-142 Sydsport Victa Arboretum Common Cougar Delta Kenblue Newport Park Prato Six Troy Rust Leaf rust has been noted generally on the grasses but due to a rather dry fall in 1974 there was not adequate differentia tion among varieties to note resistance or susceptibility. TURFGRASS SNOWMOLD TEST — 19751 Ron Ensign2 During the past three years "Snowmold" research has been conducted on bentgrass greens in northern Idaho and eastern Washington. This research has been a cooperative program among the Idaho and Washington Experiment Stations, golf course superintendents and fungicide companies. Numerous fungicides and combinations have been applied at various times in the fall and early spring to evaluate their effectiveness for FuAcwim and Typkula control. Five locations were utilized in 1972-73 and in 1973-74. Results of these tests have been reported by Dr. Chuck Gould and others. During 1974-75 additional tests were established at Moscow, Idaho involving some of the most superior fungicides and rates of previous experiments. In addition a number of experimental formulations were supplied by the Mallinckrodt Chemical Works who assisted financially in the program for the past two years. \J To be presented to the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington September 17 - 19, 1975 y Professor of Agronomy (Forages & Turf), University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho These plots were established on the University of Idaho Golf Course, Green #12. This green had not been previously treated with fungicides in 1974. The turf was Seaside bentgrass. The early and also late fall was quite dry and no disease was evident until the fungicides were applied on November 8, 1974. Thus, only one late fall application was given. Treatments were applied with a small fungicide sprayer at 40 psi supplied from C0 2 cylinders. The plots were 5' x 20' and four replications of each treatment were applied. The treatments and rates were as follows: Rate/1000 ft 2 Treatments No. Product 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 MF-582* MF-582 MF-582 MF-594 MF-594 MF-594 CalClor 1991 + SP 9 DSB + Fert 10 Fore + SP 11 Daconil 12 Terraclor 13 Check 14 Fungo 50 *MF signifies Mallinckrodt 6 9 12 5 7.5 10 4 2 8 9 8 8 12 9 0 8 oz oz oz lb lb lb oz oz oz lb oz oz oz oz oz Results The first significant fall moisture was received on November 6-7. The temperatures were cool and generally above freezing until late December. FuAa/iium nivate. [FuAasiiim Patch) infection was very light; not sufficient enough to make comparisons. Snow was received on December 26 and remained on the turf surface until March 2, a period of 68 days. As soon as the snow melted and it appeared fungi damage was about as complete as it was going to develop, the readings were taken on March 4 , 1975 and then again on March 22, 1975. These recordings are reported in Table 1. -Ill- Table 1. Percent total plot infected with Fuacluxwi YIIVAZE. and TypkuZa Incojinata; Seaside bentgrass, Moscow, Idaho 1975 Percentage of Area Infected- Treatment FuAaxium TypkuZa All Disease—7 1 MF-582 6 oz 4.,7 8..5 6.,2 2 MF-582 9 oz 3. 7 3.,7 4.,2 3 MF-582 12 oz 4.,2 7..0 2.,2 4 MF-594 5 lb 4.,0 5..5 12..2 5 MF-594 7.51b 2.,0 6.,7 14..7 6 MF-594 10 lb 5..0 17..5 12..5 7 CalClor 4 oz 11.,2 1..2 6..7 8 1991 + SP 2 oz 8 oz 7..5 8..0 5..0 9 DSB + Fert 9 lb 6..2 12..5 10..0 10 Fore + SP 8 oz 8 oz 1..2 3..7 2..2 11 Daconil 12 oz 14..2 8..8 11..2 12 Terraclor 9 oz 5..0 3..8 4,.7 13 Check 0 75,.0 80,.0 77..5 14 Fungo 50 8 oz 5,.0 8 .0 10 .0 Comments Slightly bleached Slightly bleached Darker green Early green-up Dark green Darker green Slightly bleached Severe infection ]_/ Average of two readings on March 4 and March 22, 1975 2/ Independent readings on March 22, 1975 In previous years two fall applications of Tersan 1991 at two ounces appeared to give excellent Fu^axZum control. Thus, the single two-ounce rate may not have been sufficient to prevent early infection, although infection was light. Distinguishing between the infection caused by the two "snowmold" organisms was more difficult immediately after the snow melted. However, after a few days the characteristic pink tinge with FuAasiium infection and the light bleached areas plus pink sclerotia developed with TypkuZa infection. Infection of both TypkuZa and fuscuUum appeared somewhat less severe on most of the fungicide plots in comparison to infection on the check plots. Grass recovery was much faster on treated plots but by May 1, 1975 the untreated check plots still showed serious damage from both of the organisms. The remainder of the golf greens were treated three times, before snow, with PMAS at the regular rate. But infection on these greens was generally more serious (60 - 85%) than on any treated plots of the experiment. Fungicides are available for satisfactory control of FuAa/Lium and TypkuZa in this area when used properly. Acknowledgements Special thanks to Dr. William Small of Mallinckrodts for some financial assistance in support of the research; to Dr. Chuck Gould for counsel on fungicide treatments and note taking; Mr. Fred Hall, superintendent of the University of Idaho Golf Course, for assistance, and graduate students in the Department of Plant Science for assistance in applying fungicides. MINOR ELEMENT NUTRITION ON TURFGRASSES 1 Ron D. Ensign and Richard D. Johnson 2 Chlorosis or yellowing is a major problem in grass culture on most calcareous soils of southern Idaho and other western arid regions under irrigated conditions. Chlorosis not only affects the general appearance of the grass but undoubtedly affects the health, tolerance to stress and durability of the turf. Research was initiated in 1974 and continued in 1975 to evaluate the effects of several minor and major elements on the prevention of chlorosis in turf. In addition the study was set up to develop a model for predicting the chlorosis by analyzing tissue levels for plant nutrients. The research was conducted in cooperation with personnel from the Highland Golf Course in Pocatello, Idaho and from the Ortho Division of the Chevron Chemical Company. The following minor elements and combination of minor elements were applied in mid-June 1974 to 5' x 5' replicated plots on a bluegrass fairway located on the Highland Golf Course. The area had undergone extensive leveling that resulted in removal of topsoil exposing a calcareous sub-soil with pH range of 7.5-8.0. The treatments were: ]_/ To be presented to the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Conference, Yakima, Washington, September 16 - 19, 1975 y Professor of Agronomy (Forage-Turf) and Assistant Professor and Extension Soil Specialist, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, respectively Zinc Sulfate - 1 lb* Zinc Sulfate - 1 lb + Ferrous Ammonium Sulfate - 0.63 lb Ferric Sulfate - 0.63 lb and 0.40 lb Ferrous Ammonium Sulfate - 0.63 lb and 0.40 lb Manganese Sulfate - 0.63 lb and 0.43 lb Manganese Sulfate - 1 lb + Zinc Sulfate - 1 lb Manganese Sulfate - 1 lb + Ferrous Ammonium Sulfate - 0.63 lb Manganese Sulfate - 1 lb + Ferrous Ammonium Sulfate - 0.63 lb + Zinc Sulfate - 1 lb Sesquestrene (0.6 lb Fe) *rate per 1000 sq ft In addition to these combinations, all plots received equal applications of nitrogen and sulfur as ammonium sulfate at rate of 1 lb/1000 sq ft/month. A complete soil analysis was made from random samples taken from the test site. Plant tissue samples were taken prior to treatment and again in August and September. Analysis for total Zinc, Managanese and Iron, -2% acetic acid soluble nitrate -N and phosphorus, and protein were conducted on tissue samples. Several visual readings were made during July and August, the period of greatest chlorosis expression, using a relative scale of 1 to 10 based on shade of color and deepness of color. To establish the proper time for reading turf color, several readings were made during the day on the July reading date. The August readings were read using the best reading time as determined. In addition, an August reading was made using a Munsel Color Chart reading both green and dried tissues. Results 1. The time of day or the incidence of light rays upon the grass has considerable influence upon the green or yellow reflection color characteristics of the turfgrass. Early morning or late afternoon seem to be the most desirable for taking the chlorosis readings at this location. 2. The most favorable greening responses were observed in plots treated with the higher rates (0.63 lb per/100 ft ) of ferrous ammonium sulfate. 3. Ferric forms of iron produced somewhat more chlorotic turf than that observed with the ferrous forms. 4. Zinc sulfate or manganese sulfate alone did not correct the chlorosis. 5. The tissue test for iron, manganese and zinc correlated well with the treatment. In addition, correlations of the means for visual colors vs. tissue tests shows that color is correlated with phosphorous levels in the tissue but not to micronutrient levels in the tissue. 6. Models for the prediction of chlorosis using Backward Elimination Procedures and Stepwise Regression Procedures are based on tissue concentration one month preceding color reading show that the "best" 1, 2, 3 and 4 variables for prediction of chlorosis by maximum R-square improvements are phosphorous, phosphorous + reciprocal of nitrate-N, reciprocal of zinc + reciprocal of manganese + log zinc, and iron + reciprocal zinc + reciprocal manganese + log zinc, respectively. The model holds true for all color combinations as shown in the following table. Table 1. Maximum R-Square Improvement for Dependent Variables Color (C), Reciprocal of Color (RC), Log of Color (LC), Square Root of Color (SC) R-Square Value RC LC Best Predictive Tissue Test Variable C Phosphorous Phosphorous + reciprocal of Nitrate-N Reciprocal of Zinc + reciprocal of Manganese + Log of Zinc Iron + reciprocal zinc + reciprocal of Manganese + Log of Zinc 0.16 0.24 0.15 0.25 0.15 0.24 0.16 0.24 0.48 0.50 0.49 0.49 0.60 0.60 0.61 0.60 7. SC There were good correlations from the study, especially in the color readings. The ability to read colors is very difficult. It is relatively easy to distinguish between degrees of darkness (value), or green and yellow (chroma), but becomes increasingly difficult to read combinations of value and chroma. The study indicates that the time of day is very important in reading colors. It is possible that when reading color in the A.M. or P.M., with the sun behind you at right angles, reflected colors are read; whereas, when reading color looking into the sun, transmitted colors are read. The value and chroma will differ as a result of translucence of the grass blade change due to blade density and chloroplast density. 8. The use of tissue test as a variable for prediction of chlorosis is feasible. However, further refinement will be necessary. 9. The preliminary trials indicate that a combination of ferrous ammonium sulfate and an adequate fertility level of major elements are necessary to correct the nutrition of bluegrass turf under these soil conditions. Thus, a second set of plots have been established for the 1975 season to assure the affect of several minor elements when superimposed upon rates of N, P and S. Data are being collected now and will be subject for analysis in early fall 1975. 10. Fertility recommendations to prevent or reduce chlorosis on turf are needed to enhance the appearance and utility of grass on golf courses, parks and home lawns. BLUEGRASS, RESCUE AND RYEGRASS VARIETY EVALUATION FOR TURF 1 Stanton E. Breauen2 Selections and varieties of these three groups of grasses were continued in evaluation trials at Puyallup. These trials serve widely to provide initial adaptability, disease and quality information to grass breeders, seed suppliers, turf specialists and turf users. Of course, only several years of observation, evaluation and concomitant use plus seed yield record will ultimately determine the most economic, adapted and persistent varieties for any region. Thus, initial evaluations are tentative. They serve as guidelines upon which wider and more detailed evaluation or use may be made. It is very common for turf selections which have the most promising quality and adaptability characteristics to be below average seed producers. It will not come as a surprise to you when I say there are probably no varieties or selections among these 270 or more types that meet all of the turf quality standards we would like them to meet. Yet, there are some that apparently meet many of these standards. ]_/ To be presented to the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington September 17 - 19, 1975 2/ Associate Agronomist and Extension Agronomist, Western Washington Research and Extension Center, Washington State University, Puyallup, Washington BLUEGRASS For west of the Cascades, breakdown to disease and loss of color and density in winter are most serious problems. Many types retain good to excellent summer quality while many sustain bad to severe winter diseases and reduced quality. Good resistance to rust is not apparent although some apparently have fair resistance to Helmintko^po^um leaf spot. The necrotic development of leaf and stem tissue during winter is not well correlated with Helmintko^po/Uurn leaf spot ratings obtained during other parts of the year. In short, no bluegrass varieties or selections rate excellent in year-round performance. Some rate good, but they have some quality shortcomings during a portion of the year. Winter turf quality of bluegrasses is generally poorer with short cut grasses than with higher cut grasses. In contrast, early summer quality is often higher under shorter cutting with many types. The following list identifies some varieties or selections that have performed best when all seasons and quality characteristics are considered: Kimono Sydsport Birka Enoble EVB 1128 EVB 1912 Baron Adelphi HV-44 EVB 1994 Kl-131 Kl-133 Kl-143 Ag 412 Vieta Nugget* NJE-P59 Bonnieblue Majestic Glade Galaxy A-34 Parade *Winter dormant type The following list identifies those varieties or selections that have generally lower ratings when all seasons and quality characteristics are considered: Vantage Olymprisp Cougar Captan Bel turf Six Silo Nudwarf Troy Wepal Prato Emprima Delft Arena Sobra Baronie Barones Holt Kenblue RAM 1-A Windsor Delta Newport Arista Palouse Campus Spaths Hohenhiem Arboretum Canon Civa Park Transi!vania FESCUE Several fine fescues have been performing well in these evaluations. All varieties lack good winter color and quality. There appears to be wide differences in susceptibility to red thread disease with fair resistance appearing in Waldorf, Wintergreen, Sonate and others. Roadside evaluation of fescues for persistence and low maintenance is continuing but these evaluations are too new for specific comment. The following types have rated well the first two years in turf evaluations: 351 Daehnfeldt Atlanta Wintergreen Oasis SVR-007 Sonate Hal i fax Checker High!ight SVR-006 HF-11 Lifalla Menuet Polar Jade Dawson Barfall a Lower over-all ratings have been recorded for the following fescues: Durar Renova Roland 21 Tjelvar Bargena Rubin Duraturi Charming Agio Rapid Echo Felia Ru-65 Cascade Roda Sabanna Barok Boreal 11lahee Olds Clatsop Argenta PURF-1 RYEGRASS Few differences were apparent among perennial ryegrass during the first year. Throughout the second year major differences have developed among varieties, particularly for density and cutting quality and leaf texture. The following types have rated well: EER-7 Yorktown ERG-3 Pelo N7-157 ERG-4 Manhattan Pennfine EER-88 Types receiving lower ratings were: Kent Aberystwyth 523 S-321 Ba 8674 Linn Gazon NFG I.B.S.D. Odstein Castria Endura Combi Sportiva Patora Paj 2/72 Odengrun Project cooperators are Dr. R. L. Goss, Dr. C. J. Gould and Mr. Tom Cook. Financial assistance from the Northwest Turfgrass Association in 1974 was greatly appreciated. DISEASES OF TURFGRASS 1 PROGRESS REPORT Charles J. Gould 2 FU6CUIIUM Patch - Thanks to a very severe outbreak of F. nl\joJLd during the winter of 1974/75, we obtained some of the best data we have had in recent years on fungicidal control of this disease. Two new types of fungicides gave outstanding results. These are Rhodia's RP 26019 and Chemagro's Bay Meb 6447. Disease control was excellent with these during the very severe outbreak of FUACVUUM from November to March. In addition, both of these compounds produced dense turf with good color. Additional tests with both are planned for 1975/76. Unfortunately, neither product is likely to be on the market for at least another year. One of the best fungicidal mixtures tested was Mallinckrodt's MF-573. It, too, gave good disease control and produced green dense turf. In general, most of the benzimidazoles used alone or in alternating programs were not as effective as in previous years. Perhaps benzimidazole-resistant strains are developing. These results are being prepared for pub!ication. CosLtcaium Red Thread - Tersan 75 (@ 8 oz), Dyrene (@ 8 oz) and Daconil (@ 8 oz) all gave good control of Red Thread in a test last year. Tersan 75 at 4 oz was less effective than at y To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, September 17 - 19, 1975, Yakima, WA. y Plant Pathologist, Western Washington Research and Extension Center, Washington State University, Puyallup, WA. 8 oz. Dyrene and Tersan 75 produced turf with the best density and color. Red Thread also appeared in two other areas where fungicides were being applied. Good control and good quality grass were obtained with mixtures containing one or more of the fungicides listed above. In addition, both RP 26019 and Bay Meb 6447 gave good control of Red Thread. Snowmold - The data from the 1973/74 tests have all been summarized and an article on these is nearly ready for publication. Best control was obtained when a fungicide (such as Fore or a benzimidazole) was applied in early fall to control FuscvUum, followed by another application just before snowfall of a mixture of either chloroneb or Daconil (to control Typkula) plus a fungicide to control Fuaclm,lm (Fore or a benzimidazole). NUTRITIONAL TESTS Snowmold Typkula ¿nccumata and F. yiivald - These tests, which were started in the fall of 1974 at the Spokane Golf Club, involve various sources of nitrogen and different levels of N, P and K applied at different times, with and without sulfur and minor elements. The best overall results (disease control plus grass color and density) so far have been obtained with Milorganite, but the experiment must continue for at least another year before we can obtain conclusive results. FULbaSibiM Patch - F. yiivald developed abundantly in a test plot where various nutritional programs were being tested for their effect on another disease. The least F u a c v U u w patch appeared where Milorganite was being used. The Milorganite plots also had the darkest color. The next best color was produced by ammonium sulfate and urea plus sulfur. However, more bentgrass was present in the ammonium sulfate plots than in any other plot. DISEASE RESISTANCE Bentgrasses (159 varieties) FuAcuiium Patch - This is a continuing test with new varieties being added each year and poorer varieties reduced in numbers of replications. We recently planted the 159th variety, which will be the last one for at least two years. Some of the varieties which previously appeared to be very resistant, have fallen by the wayside, while a few, which earlier did not look so good, have apparently developed some resistance, perhaps by natural selection of clones. Some of the more promising (disease resistance + color + density) varieties or clones this past year were: Agrettina, Avanta, Barbella, Congressional, Dudecks ARC-1, Evansville, Huffine's MCC-3, Keen's #22, Kingstown, Ligrette and Toronto. Several others also look good and later may prove to be as useful as the above varieties. A mimeographed report on the tests for 1974/75 will be sent upon request. The above tests are run on 5' x 5' plots maintained under uniform management conditions. The more promising varieties are next planted at our Farm 5 in larger plots maintained under two levels of nitrogen with and without fungicides. See Dr. Goss's report for additional details. Snowmold (primarily Typkula ¿nccuinata) - A severe attack of snowmold occurred in our plots at Hangman Golf Club during the winter of 1974/75. The disease was almost entirely caused by Typkuta. In general, the stolonized varieties were much more susceptible than the seeded types. Among these, the following were among the most promising when disease resistance, plus good color and quality were considered: Enate, Tracenta, Ligrette, Hummel, Saboval and MOM AT4. Three of the most disease susceptible were: Arrowwood, Evansville and Seaside. These tests are continuing. BLUEGRASSES Rust (Pucct/Ua MuhZgo-vzm) - Of the 120 varieties in this test, several appeared to have some resistance. Two of the best were Bonnieblue and Majestic. Others included: Banff, EVB 1939 and 2104, Fylking, Galaxy, Geronimo, Glade, Kl-131, NJE P59, Parade and SVP-006. Ones that were particularly susceptible were Emprima, EVB 532, Vantage and Arista. Conticlim {¡ULcifatrnd - Captan, Cougar, Monopoly and RAM 1 were the most resistant, while Kimono was quite susceptible. FuAcuvium nivoJLz - Most varieties appeared to be fairly resistant to this pathogen, but both Golf and Sydsport were quite susceptible. HzhnintkoApoAium vaganA leaf spot - This disease has been quite severe during the past two winters. Only a few varieties appear to have reasonable resistance. These include Belturf, Nugget, several of the EVB series (1405, 1224, 1912 and 1942) and Hg 7217. Among the very susceptible lines are Arboretum, Cougar, Delta, Kenblue, Parade, Park and Transilvania. FESCUES COKLLCMJLM KUDLOAMZ - This is the most serious disease of fescues in the Pacific Northwest. None of the 93 varieties were immune, but some were much more resistant than others. Among thenost resistant varieties were: Daehnfeldt 351, Marga, Trol, Waldorf, Scaldis, Barok and C-26. Some of the more susceptible varieties were: Echo, Ruby, Rapid, Roda, Olds, Cottage and Durlawn. FuAanim nivale. invaded the plots during the winter. Most varieties were either resistant or escaped attack. The following however, were rather severely infected: Argenta, Barok, Erika and S70-2. Ones of moderate susceptibility included Marga, Waldorf, Polar, Encota and Wintergreen. RYEGRASSES Cofctidum Red Thread - None of the 59 ryegrasses showed much resistance, but some of the better ones were Ensporta, Lynn, Odstein, Diana, Pennfine and a few numbered selections. Some of the most susceptible were: Angela, Springfield, Combi, and Norlea. C00PERAT0RS All of this research has been carried on in cooperation with Dr. R. L. Goss and, in part, with Dr. S. E. Brauen (Variety testing), and Prof. A1 Law (Snowmold research) to whom I express my appreciation. We are very grateful to Bud Ashworth (Supt., Hangman Valley Golf Club) and Norris Beardsley (Supt., Spokane Golf Club) for their assistance with the snowmold research. We also appreciate financial assistance by: U.S.G.A. Green Section Research and Education Fund, Inc. (Bentgrass Disease Resistance Project); the Northwest Turfgrass Association (Snowmold Research); and the Chemagro Corp., Diamond Shamrock Corp., Elanco, Mallinckrodt Chemical Works, Merck Chemical Div., 0. M. Scott & Sons, Rhodia Inc., Tuco Div. of Upjohn and the Velsicol Chemical Corp. (Fungicidal Testing). PUBLICATIONS DURING THE PAST YEAR (COPIES AVAILABLE) Disease Control in Putting Turf. and Goss. WSU EM 2050 (Rev 1975) Gould Disease Control in Lawn Turf. WSU EM 2049 (Rev 1975) Gould and Goss. Results of Fungicidal Tests on Bentgrass Turf During 1974/75. July 17, 1975. Gould and Goss (WWREC) Mimeo. Progress Report on Testing of Agrostis Cultivars for Disease Resistance. May 29, 1975. Gould, Goss and Brauen. (WWREC) Mimeo-. Comparison of light-frequent, heavy-infrequent and alternating applications of fungicides to control Fuaosujlim Patch. Proc. 2nd Int'l. Turf Res. Conf. 1974 pp. 339-343. Gould and Goss. Turfgrass Pathologists' Newsletter, Vol. I, No. 1. Editor. July, 1975 (Mimeo.) Gould, 1975 POA ANNUA SURVEY 1 Thomas W. Cook 2 During the spring of 1975 Poa annua samples were collected from putting greens at 31 golf courses in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Samples were allowed to grow to maturity in a greenhouse and examined for variations in morphology, growth and seeding habit. Most selections can be placed in the following categories: 1, Erect growing, few to several secondary tillers, leaves generally coarse textured, generally heavy seed producers, 2, Decumbent growing, many secondary tillers, some short stolons, leaves generally fine textured, seed production variable from light to heavy. 3, Decumbent growing, many secondary tillers, spreads vigorously from stolons, leaf texture variable from coarse to fine, seed production variable from none to heavy. Not all samples can be easily placed in the above categories and in some cases intermediate forms were noted. Samples collected in eastern Washington contained mostly erect growing types and very few of the stoloniferous types, while all types were common in western Washington. Old, mostly Poa annua greens yielded more decumbent types than greens at new golf courses. In fact, new ]_/ To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington, September 17 19, 1975 2/ Turfgrass Research Associate, Western Washington Research & Extension Center, Washington State University, Puyallup, WA greens at new courses often contained only erect growing types. New greens at old courses often contained types from all three categories. Attempts have been made to classify Poa annua to annual or perennial subspecies using predetermined morphological markers (Gibeault, 1972). Annual types are reported to have culms with six or less nodes, one or less secondary tiller, one or less adventitious root, and post harvest seed germination of 10% or less. Perennial types have culms with many nodes, many secondary tillers, many adventitious roots, and a high percentage of post harvest seed germination. Based on morphology alone, all samples collected this past spring would fit into the perennial subspecies classification. However, detailed germination studies have not been completed at this time. To determine if morphological variation actually influences longevity under mowed and unmowed conditions, samples representing a broad range of morphological types are being prepared for placement in nursery rows and in putting turf. Samples will be rated on survival, rate of spread and seeding habits. In addition to Poa annua samples, soil samples were taken from new and old greens at most courses. New greens were considered to be those constructed from sand or sand-soil mixtures while old greens were those constructed from native soils. Samples were subjected to sieve analysis and results compared to our current specifications which require that no more than 15 - 20% of the particles be larger than 1 mm and no more than 10 - 15% be finer than 0.20 mm. As might be expected, all old greens contained excessive fine particles. Some were surprisingly close to being acceptable posstbly due to longstanding sand topdressing programs. Results of sieve analysis of composite samples from new greens on 15 golf courses were disappointing. Of the 15 samples, only 7 fell within acceptable limits while 5 contained too many fine particles and 3 contained excess coarse particles. Several new greens actually contained a greater percentage of fine particles than many old greens. Perhaps this can help explain the poor drainage properties exhibited by some supposedly sand greens. One additional observation in this survey seems noteworthy. On golf courses sampled, well over 50% of the greens were built from native soils. With this in mind, it appears that work done at the WWREC on native sandy loam soil can often be directly applied to many putting green management programs. REFERENCES 1. GIBEAULT, V.A. and N.R. Goetze. 1972. Annual meadowgrass. J. of Sports Turf Research Institute, pp, 9-19. CONTROL OF POA ANNUA 1 Thomas W. Cook Research conducted at the WWREC in Puyallup since 1970 indicates strongly that Poa annua control with pre-emergence chemicals can be successful. Nevertheless, the transition from research to popular acceptance in the field has been negligible. In fact, of the golf courses sampled this spring, only three reported any serious attempts at Poa annua control. Two gave up after one to two years while the other reported encouraging results. Success with a pre-emergence program requires a thorough understanding of the chemicals being used and knowledge of the growth habit of Poa annua. For instance, Dr. Goss has found that bensulide used annually in the fall at 15 lb active ingredient per acre was ineffective in controlling Poa annua while bensulide applied annually in the fall at 12 lb active ingredient per acre plus 3 lb active ingredient per acre every three months was very effective. This might be explained by the observation this summer that Poa annua germination occurs all summer long in our Puyallup test plots. Since repeat applications maintained toxic levels through the year, control was better than the single fall application which lost residual activity by the following summer. ]_/ To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, Yakima, Washington, September 17 19, 1975 2/ Turfgrass Research Associate, Western Washington Research & Extension Center, Washington State University, Puyallup, WA Even under good conditions, pre-emergence control of Poa annua is not without problems. For example, overseeding with improved bentgrasses while on a pre-emergent program is difficult since most chemicals effective against Poa annua are also effective against bentgrasses. Also, conversion to bentgrass is slow and it may take several years before there is a noticeable decrease in Poa annua. At the WWREC we are attempting to develop an integrated program for Poa annua control in both bentgrass and bluegrassfescue turf. The program will incorporate the best of what we know about pre-emergence control and effects of plant nutrition, with modified maintenance practices and selective post-emergence herbicidal treatments. Of immediate interest is development of a selective postemergence herbicide. Among chemicals being tested, Endothal c^nd Amttrol-T both look promising on Colonial bentgrass putting turf. Tests have been conducted to determine the following: 1. Tolerance to a wide range of rates. 2. Effects of repeat applications on Poa annua control and survival of bentgrass. 3. Influence of timing on control of Poa annua and survival of bentgrass. Mild weather and lack of any extended stress periods have undoubtedly influenced results thus far. In general on putting turf results have been very encouraging. Timing and frequency of application in the case of Endothal appears to be very important. With Amitrol rates are very important and much more work is scheduled. Evaluation of control with these chemicals was hindered in early trials due to the flush of Poa annua germination following initial kill of established plants. This observation will aid in planning future experiments and stresses the importance of integrated control using both pre- and postemergence chemicals. Future testing will utilize other promising chemicals and refinements based on work in progress. By next season our new putting green should be ready for experimental use and will help answer several questions that have been raised concerning rate effects on sand greens. Tests using Endothal for Voa annua eradication in mixed stands of bluegrass and red fescue have been inconclusive. Spring applications caused severe injury to the red fescue and some thinning to the bluegrass with variable Voa annua control. Recent summer applications have shown greater selectivity but with variable Voa annua control. Much more testing is scheduled for bluegrass-red fescue stands. All work concerning post-emergence control of Voa annua is in progress and at this time NO recommendations can be made concerning any test chemicals. We are looking forward to the day when a safe and effective program can be offered for your use. PRE-EMERGENCE SCREENING TRIALS A modified version of the 1974 pre-emergence test has been put out on putting turf and will be evaluated through next spring. This test includes several promising experimental materials and Bensulide. Materials are being evaluated at several rates and application schedules on mowed turf and bare soil seeded with both Colonial bentgrass 'Highland' and Voa annua. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The expanded Voa annua control work could not have been attempted without the financial assistance of the Northwest Turfgrass Association. We are very qrateful for this support which we feel will allow us to expand our program to answer this and other difficult problems. AGRONOMIC RESEARCH REPORT 1 Roy L. Goss2 I. NUTRITION STUDIES A. Responses to N, P, K and S in 1975 were similar to those reported in 1974. Plots receiving sulfur still exhibit significant responses with regard to color and texture. Nutritional responses can be summarized as follows: 1. Poa annua. All plots receiving 3-1/2 lb of sulfur per 1000 ft 2 per year are still maintaining purity of bentgrass stand with little or no intrusion of Poa annua. In plots receiving four different rates of sulfur (0, 1.15, 2.3 and 4.6 lb of S) show variable response to Poa annua invasion. No Poa annua plants are to be found in any plots regardless of nitrogen levels at 4.9 lb S per 1000 ft 2 per year. Plots receiving 2.3 lb S per 1000 ft 2 per year are virtually Poa-free with only a few plants being found in plots receiving 20 lb of N or plots receiving the high level of N and those receiving phosphorus. Plots receiving 1.15 lb S contain high populations of Poa annua, however, the turfgrass is stimulated in color response from S applications. The check strip receiving no sulfur has very high populations of Poa annua and the plots are off-color - yellow. 1/ To be presented at the 29th Annual Northwest Turfgrass Association Conference, September 17-19, 1975, Yakima, WA. y Agronomist/Extension Agronomist, Western Washington Research and Extension Center, Washington State University, Puyallup, WA. 2. FuacvUllw patch disease. Ratings were made of the plots in the fall of 1974 and spring and summer of 1975, and all plots and strips receiving sulfur have significantly, less FuscuUum patch disease than plots not receiving sulfur. 3. Growth responses. Growth rate is accellerated in plots receiving 12 and 20 lb of nitrogen, respectively, without regard to P and K where S is applied. Little growth differences were observed in S treated 2 plots where nitrogen levels were 6 lb per 1000 ft per year. Some scalping of plots receiving sulfur at the high nitrogen treatment was experienced again in 1975. This is due to excessive growth and has resulted in some scalping. 4. From indications over the past few years, it would appear that 6 lb of nitrogen, 5 lb of K2O potassium, and 3.5 lb of sulfur per 1000 ft 2 per year may be a viable program under many circumstances. Winter color will be poor although spring and summer color is quite satisfactory. The turf, of course, will have to receive some phosphorus and it is predicted at this point that perhaps one lb. or slightly less of P2O5 phosphorus per 1000 ft 2 will be adequate to maintain the turf. Under field conditions, light applications of ferrous ammonium sulfate may enhance winter color sufficiently to get by with this low rate of nitrogen for the Pacific Northwest. 5. OpkioboluA patch disease. No OpkioboluA rings are to be found in any of the S treated plots. 6. pH. Some reduction in pH has been recorded at the highest rate of sulfur, but they are not significantly lower than other plots. The pH has been depressed at the highest at about .7 on the pH scale. No lime has been applied to these plots for the past 16 years. Plots were established in April, 1975 to study the effects of Gold-N (32% nitrogen), IBDU (32% nitrogen), urea formaldehyde (38% nitrogen), and ammonium sulfate. Ammonium sulfate and urea formaldehyde were included to serve as checks against IBDU and Gold-N for this area. We have sufficient data on urea formaldehyde and ammonium sulfate to make reliable comparisons with the effects of Gold-N and IBDU. Gold-N is a sulfur-coated urea, and we need to know more about this particular product under the conditions of the Pacific Northwest. We feel that sulfur coating will be one means of maintaining adequate sulfur levels, and of course, the sulfur coating does create a slow release factor without any burn. This work is being supported in part by ICI (International Chemical Industry of England) and ICI-US. At the present time, Gold-N has produced turf with quality equal to the best of other fertility treatments. It is too early to tell yet what the carryover effect will be in the spring of 1976 or the effect of the sulfur contribution. More information will be reported as it is developed. II. TOPDRESSING PROGRAM Light, frequent topdressings have been carried out on an experimental green at the research station at Puyallup for 15 months to date. Eighteen topdressings have been applied to date at the rate of 3 cu. ft. per 1000 ft 2 . The plots have been overseeded with the topdressing program with the exception of very late fall and very early spring. The results of this test can be summarized as follows: A. Improved surface. Surface conditions as related to putting greens has significantly improved. The surface is extremely smooth and would enhance putting significantly. B. Uniform profile. Approximately 3/4 inch of new profile has been created to date, and the uniformity of the profile is near perfect. There is absolutely no evidence of layering and roots, stems, crowns are uniformly mingled with the stand. C. Bentgrass populations. It is questionable as to the increase in bentgrass populations during this past year. There appears to be some increase in bent, but we are too young in the program to assess this factor yet. D. Poa annua. I would say at this time that there has been no reduction in Poa annua by carrying out this program for a little over one year. We, of course, will not assess any Poa annua factors until this project has been carried to completion at the end of three years. In the summer of 1975 we began applications of sulfur on one-half of this topdressed area to determine the compatibility of high levels of sulfur with the fertility program and the topdressing program being practiced. This area is constructed on sand and should give us some significant indications of the effect of sulfur with this regard. III. BENTGRASS ADVANCED MANAGEMENT PLOTS These plots are being maintained in the same manner as most golf course putting greens. They are mowed at 1/4 inch, fertilized regularly and topdressed. They receive two levels of nitrogen, 12 lb and 5 lb per 1000 f t 2 , respectively, from complete fertilizer formulas used on golf courses. The results to date can be summarized as follows: A. The effects of N. The highest level of nitrogen, in general, has produced plots with the best texture and color. This was especially apparent during the spring and early summer, but these differences have largely disappeared since the low nitrogen plots have received regular applications of nitrogen throughout the late spring and summer. I would expect these differences to reappear this fall when the low nitrogen plots once again will have no applications of N. B. Scalping. Some of the plots tended to scalp worse than others, and the greatest amount of scalping occurred under high nitrogen treatments. These points are summarized in the table accompanying this article. C. Poa annua. In most of the plots, Poa annua has increased more under high nitrogen than under low nitrogen; however, some of the plots show little difference in Poa annua invasion due to nitrogen treatments and results are shown in the table. D. Varietal response to P u A c u U u m . This information is being presented by C. J. Gould as part of his disease research report. IV. MOSS CONTROL Moss control studies were conducted during late winter and early spring of 1975 to test various compounds for their effectiveness in reducing lawn moss. This project was in cooperation with Chevron Chemical Company, Ortho Division, and was partially supported through a grant-in-aid from that company. In general, the medium to high applications of experimental iron compounds produced best results as compared to all other treatments. Other treatments included moss control materials formulated by local companies and by 0. M. Scott Company. It is not known currently when Ortho will market these ferrous compounds. They are a granular material, easy to apply, and will be adaptable to many other turfgrass areas other than for the control of lawn moss. V. NUTRITION TESTS AT SPOKANE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB A nutrition test was established at the Spokane Golf and Country Club on a practice putting green to study the effects of various sources of nitrogen as well as rates and timing to determine their effect on snowmold development and FusaAcum patch disease. Sulfur and micronutrients were also included in these tests to obtain more information from the Inland Empire area. In general, Milorganite and ammonium sulfate produced the better appearing plots from spring evaluations and the same two materials produced turf with the least amount of disease. Additional information regarding the disease factor will be presented by C. J. Gould. We intend to continue applications for a period of at least 3 years, and we feel that information gained in the winter of 1975-76 will be more than what we have learned during the first year. VI. BENTGRASS VARIETY PLOTS AT HANGMAN VALLEY GOLF COURSE These variety plots have undergone their second winter since establishment and none of the varieties show complete resistance to snowmold attack although four varieties, HV-TC-4, HV-T-3, URI.AC-5 and Kingstown, had less than 25% of the area infected by snowmold. Some of the varieties were attacked up to 90% or better by this disease. Color, texture, density and general appearance ratings have been maintained for a period of two years and the following varieties exhibit best color when rated on a 1 to 10 basis. Ten is best color, one is brown. No variety that rated less than 7.5 in color is included in this report. Seeded varieties included: Bora!, Bardot, Tracenta, MOM AT4, Ohl. 0E332, Atella, Norfel, Penncross, Scotts A-75, Barbinet, Tendenz, Strandhem, Enate and Ligrette. Most of the stolonized varieties had 7.5 color rating and over, but three URI selections had ratings of 9 and one Florida (Dud. ARC-1), Ferg. 63-10 and Twin Orchards rated 8.5. With regard to texture, the following varieties rated best (1 to 10, 10 being very fine, even textured, and one being very coarse, lacking density, etc.): Waukanda, Keen's 22 and 28, Washington, Ferg. 67-9, URI APN-3, Dud (ARC-1), MOM AT4 and Kingstown rated 9.0 or better. A large number rated 8.0 and better, a few of which are Boral Novobent, Penncross, Bardot, Toronto, Ferg. 63-10, Twin Orchards, Hayden Lake, Morrissey and Scotts A-75 and A-74. It is interesting to note that a number of the same varieties do exhibit both characteristies of color and texture, and this, of course, is one factor we are looking for. Unfortunately, only two of all of these varieties have ratings of 40% or less snowmold attack. The varieties registering less than 25% snowmold did not rate significantly high in color and texture to be included in the color-texture list. We will reevaluate our data and if they were excluded from the list only because of color but have acceptable texture, these more highly resistant snowmold varieties could possibly become good varieties for the snowmold region if they continue to exhibit this characteristic. We are grateful for the assistance provided by Bud Ashworth and his crew at Hangman Valley in maintaining these plots. This work is being carried out in cooperation with C. J. Gould, A. G. Law and S. E. Brauen. Reports concerning bentgrass varietal responses at Puyallup as well as the Bluegrass, Fescue and Ryegrass trials will be reported more in detail by Drs. C. J. Gould and S. E. Brauen. VII. Poa annua CONTROL A five year test of pre-emergence Poa annua control was terminated in July, 1975. In summary, Bensulide applied at 15 lb per acre annually with 3 lb per acre added every three months subsequently resulted in plots with over 95% bentgrass purity. Less than 2% of the plot was infected with Poa annua. Plots receiving Bensulide at 15 lb per acre once annually showed no reduction in Poa annua as compared to the check. Plots receiving applications of tricalcium arsenate over this period of time were 100% free of Poa annua. Since tricalcium arsenate is no longer available on the market, this information is after the fact. However, our results with Bensulide are significant enough to indicate that Poa annua can be controlled if the turfgrass manager maintains a diligent program in management and use of this chemical. Other cooperative research with regard to the control of Poa annua, both pre- and post-emergently and nutritionally is ongoing with Tom Cook, and his report will carry more detailed information with this regard.