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Oct 2026

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October 16, 20268 min

Evaluating effect of Fercristal Summum Nitro and 18-3-6 with UMAXX fertilizer on turf quality and nutrient efficiency in perennial ryegrass and bermudagrass

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode features the article “Evaluating effect of Fercristal Summum Nitro and 18-3-6 with UMAXX fertilizer on turf quality and nutrient efficiency in perennial ryegrass and bermudagrass” written by Xunzhong Zhang, Mike Goatley, Berit Smith, Taylor Motsinger, and Sydney Hook. Introduction and Objective Improvement of nutrient use efficiency, especially nitrogen, is an important issue in turfgrass management with respect to plant health, quality, economics and environmental protection. New technology has been used to develop fertilizers which may have high nutrient use efficiency when compared to traditional fertilizer such as ammonium nitrate. The objective was to evaluate effect of Fercristal Summum Nitro (FSN) and 18-3-6 with UMAXX for improving N uptake and turfgrass performance in comparison with ammonium nitrate in perennial ryegrass and bermudagrass turfgrasses. Materials and Methods Perennial ryegrass (cv. ‘Gray Hawk’) and bermudagrass (cv. ‘Latitude 36’) plugs (4″ diameter) were collected from field plots and transplanted into 6-inch pots filled with fine sand plus 10% calcined clay in early June 2025. The grasses were trimmed, irrigated, and fertilized regularly. After about 4- weeks of non-stressed growth with optimum temperature, water, fertilizer, and light, the pots were grown in a controlled environment growth chamber at optimum growing conditions. The three treatments were arranged in a randomized block design with four replications. These treatment solutions were uniformly applied to the canopy: 1). Control standard ammonium nitrate at 0.10 lb N/1000 ft²) 2). Fercristal Summum Nitro at 0.1 lb N/1000 ft²) 3). 18-3-6 with UMAXX at 0.10 lb N/1000 ft²) biweekly. All nitrogen in the 18-3-6 with UMAXX is stabilized with dicyanodiamide and N-(in-butyl)-thiophosphoric triamide and the product contains 0.1% iron. The FSN contains 20.5% nitrogen and 18 amino acids. The soluble sustainable nitrogen (SSN) technology was used to improve nitrogen use efficiency. P and K and micronutrients were applied to all pots as base nutrients to support normal growth. Additional P and K in forms of potassium chloride and triple phosphate for treatments #1 and 2 were used to match P and K input for treatment #3. All treatments received no additional N inputs, and non-N nutrient solution was applied biweekly. Turf quality, fresh clipping weight, photochemical efficiency, leaf chlorophyll content, leaf protein, leaf proline, and leaf nitrogen content were measured biweekly during the period of 56 days. Root growth characteristics including root biomass, length, surface area, diameter, and volume were measured at the end of the trial. The data were analyzed with an analysis of variance and mean separations were performed with a protected Fisher’s least significance difference at 5% probability level. Results and Discussion Turf quality Foliar applications of Fercristal Summum Nitro (FSN) and 18-3-6 with UMAXX (abbreviation: UMAXX) improved turf quality when compared to the control (ammonium nitrate, AN) as measured from day 14 (July 22) through Day 56 (Sept. 2) in bermudagrass and perennial ryegrass. On average, both SSN and UMAXX consistently increased turf quality ratings relative to the control. Leaf chlorophyll content Foliar applications of FSN and UMAXX increased leaf chlorophyll content when compared to the control (ammonium nitrate as measured at day 42 (August 19) and Day 56 (Sept. 2) in bermudagrass and at day 29 (August 5) in perennial ryegrass. On average, both SSN and UMAXX increased chlorophyll content relative to the control in bermudagrass and also SSN in perennial ryegrass. Photochemical efficiency Foliar applications of FSN improved leaf photochemical efficiency when compared to the control (ammonium nitrate) as measured from day 14 (July 22), day 28 (August 5), and day 56 (Sept. 2) in bermudagrass and day 42 and 56 in perennial ryegrass. In addition, UMAXX treatment improved photochemical efficiency relative to the control as measured at day 56. On average, both SSN and UMAXX consistently increased photochemical efficiency relative to the control. Clipping production Foliar applications of FSN and UMAXX increased clipping fresh weight when compared to the control (ammonium nitrate) as measured at day 42 and 56 in bermudagrass (except for UMAXX at day 56) and day 28, 42 and 56 in perennial ryegrass. On average, both FSN and UMAXX consistently increased clipping production relative to the control. Leaf protein, N content, and estimated N use efficiency (NUE) Foliar applications of FSN and UMAXX increased leaf protein and N content when compared to the control (ammonium nitrate) as measured at day 42 and 56 in bermudagrass, and day 28, 42 and 56 in perennial ryegrass. On average, both FSN and UMAXX increased leaf protein and N content in the two turfgrass species. Based on total N input and total leaf N uptake, the NUE was estimated. The FSN and UMAXX increased the N use efficiency by 12.7% and 12.9%, respectively, in bermudagrass, and 19.5% and 8.3% in perennial ryegrass, when compared to ammonium nitrate. Leaf amino acid proline content Foliar applications of FSN and UMAXX increased leaf proline content when compared to the control (ammonium nitrate) as measured from day 14 (July 22) through day 56 (September 2) in bermudagrass (except for UMAXX at day 14) and perennial ryegrass (except for SSN at day 14). On average, both SSN and UMAXX consistently increased leaf proline content in all three turfgrass species. Root growth characteristics and viability Foliar applications of FSN and UMAXX increased root biomass, length, surface area, and volume when compared to the control (ammonium nitrate) in the two turfgrass species. In addition, FSN treatment improved root viability relative to the control in bermudagrass and UMAXX improved root viability relative to the control in perennial ryegrass. Summary. Foliar applications of Fercristal Summum Nitro (FSN) and 18-5-6 with UMAXX improved turf visual quality, physiological fitness, leaf protein and N content, amino acid proline content, and root growth when compared to the control (ammonium nitrate) in bermudagrass and perennial ryegras under normal growth conditions. No consistent differences in the measured parameters were found between Fercristal Summum Nitro and 18-3-6 with UMAXX. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Evaluating effect of Fercristal Summum Nitro and 18-3-6 with UMAXX fertilizer on turf quality and nutrient efficiency in perennial ryegrass and bermudagrass appeared first on The Turf Zone .

October 14, 20264 min

Large Patch or Brown Patch? Timing Matters!

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode covers how timing matters in correctly identifying large patch and brown patch. Written by Nar B. Ranabhat, Assistant Professor and Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Tennessee. Large patch and brown patch can look similar, but they require different management strategies especially when it comes to fungicide application timing. Correctly identifying the disease, scouting at the right time, and applying fungicides when needed can help improve the turfgrass health. Disease Large patch and brown patch are fungal diseases caused by different strains of Rhizoctonia solani. Large patch mainly affects warm-season grasses including zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St. Augustinegrass. Activity of this R. solani strain is most active during cool and wet weather in fall and spring, when temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F. Brown patch primarily affects cool season turfgrass, especially tall fescue. This is the most damaging pathogen of tall fescue throughout Tennessee particularly in middle and east Tennessee. Activity of this R. solani strain is most common during warm, humid weather, when temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F. Scouting Time Start scouting for large patch in the fall during when soil temperatures approach near 70°F. Watch for brown patch from late spring through summer, especially during hot and humid weather. Since both diseases often return to the same spots, keep a close eye on areas that have had problems before. Fungicide Application Timing Timing is critical for effective disease management. For large patch, apply preventive fungicides in the fall before turfgrass goes dormant, rather than waiting until large patches are visible. For brown patch, consider fungicide applications before or as warm, humid summer conditions begin, especially in areas with a history of disease. The goal is to protect healthy turf before the disease becomes severe, not simply to treat visible symptoms after they appear. Can Nitrogen Management Affect Large patch and Brown patch development? Fungicides are an important tool for managing severe turf disease outbreaks, but they are only one part of an effective disease management program. What happens day to day on the turf field can have just as much impact, and nitrogen management is an important part of those practices. Applying too much nitrogen during periods when turfgrass is most vulnerable can increase the risk and severity of large and brown patches. For warm season turfgrass, avoid excess nitrogen applications in late fall and early spring, when large patch risk is highest. For cool season turfgrass, avoid excess nitrogen application during hot, humid summer, when brown patch risk is highest. The goal is not to avoid nitrogen, but to apply the right amount at the right time. A well balanced nitrogen program can help reduce the conditions that favor disease development. What Else Should I Do Besides Spraying? Other cultural practices also help reduce disease pressure and keep turf healthy. Improve drainage and air circulation when possible. Reduce the prolonged leaf wetness. Water carefully and avoid unnecessary nighttime irrigation. Manage thatch and avoid practices that place extra stress on the turf. Scout regularly and use past disease problems to guide management decisions. Key Takeaways For Tennessee turfgrass professionals, the main difference in managing Large Patch and Brown Patch is timing for scouting and management actions: Large patch affects warm-season turf and is best managed with fall scouting and preventive treatments. Brown patch affects cool-season turf and requires scouting and preventive treatment during the summer. Accurate diagnosis, timely application, and good cultural practices can improve disease control and help make fungicide use more targeted and effective. For more information about the disease and lists of fungicide products, see the Extension publication: “Large Path vs. Brown Patch in Turfgrass: How to tell the Difference” by Nar B. Ranabhat and Becky Bowling. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Large Patch or Brown Patch? Timing Matters! appeared first on The Turf Zone .

October 12, 202612 min

Strength from the Ground Up: Measuring Sod Strength to Advance Turfgrass Research at Penn State

Welcome to The Turf Zone Podcast. This episode covers measuring sod strength to advance turfgrass research at Penn State. Written by Ava Veith, Zineb Alouani, Chase Straw and David Huff – Department of Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University. Why Sod Strength Matters Long-term turfgrass stability is not controlled by a single factor, but rather by the interaction of turfgrass species, cultivar genetics, rootzone properties, and management practices. Turfgrass failure often becomes visible when the surface can no longer resist shear forces, whether during an athlete’s planting and pivoting movement, excessive divoting from golf play, or sod breaking apart during harvest and handling. In research plots, these weaknesses may appear as inconsistent performance from one area to another. Across athletic fields, golf courses, lawns, and sod farms alike, structural weakness limits turfgrass performance. At the center of these issues is sod strength. Sod strength refers to the resistance of the turfgrass–rootzone system to tearing or shearing forces. It reflects how effectively roots and other plant structures reinforce the turfgrass-root system. In other words, sod strength represents the physical integrity created by the interaction between turfgrass biology and the soil beneath it. Traditionally, turfgrass performance has been evaluated visually through percent cover, color, density, and recovery after wear. While those indicators are important, they do not directly measure structural stability. A surface may appear dense yet still lack strong structural integrity. Likewise, it may recover quickly but remain vulnerable to tearing under load. By directly quantifying structural integrity, objective measurements of sod strength allow turfgrass professionals to better connect turfgrass genetics, growth habits, and management practices with real-world durability. Expanding Turfgrass Research with Penn State’s New Sod Strength Tester With support from the Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council (PTC) Board of Directors, Penn State recently acquired a sod strength tester to expand its turfgrass research capacity. This equipment allows us to apply a controlled pulling force to turfgrass sod and directly measure the resistance of the turfgrass-rootzone system before tearing or shearing occurs. Unlike visual ratings or indirect indicators of performance, the sod strength tester generates objective and repeatable measurements of turfgrass structural integrity. It quantifies how effectively the turfgrass-rootzone system resists separation under load and how the turfgrass canopy holds together under stress. These measurements help translate turfgrass biology into measurable performance data. With this tool, Penn State can now evaluate structural stability across a range of systems, including athletic fields, golf courses, lawns, and sod production. Ultimately, PTC’s investment strengthens our ability to evaluate how turfgrass species, cultivar genetics, and management practices influence measurable durability in real-world turfgrass systems. Using the Sod Strength Tester in Turfgrass Research Several factors influence sod strength. Turfgrass species differ in growth habit and lateral spread, while cultivar genetics affect stolon and rhizome production, tillering capacity, and root mass. Rootzone composition influences the structural integrity of the turfgrass-rootzone system and moisture dynamics, and management practices such as fertility, irrigation, mowing height, traffic intensity, and cultivation further shape how the turfgrass system develops and responds to stress. By measuring sod strength, researchers can evaluate how these interacting factors influence structural performance under real-world conditions. At Penn State, the sod strength tester will be incorporated into multiple research initiatives led by faculty within the Department of Plant Science, including Dr. Chase Straw and Dr. David Huff. Across both cool- and warm-season turfgrass systems, this tool adds an objective measure of structural durability to traditional performance evaluations. By quantifying differences in resistance to tearing, it provides insight into structural integrity that may not be apparent through visual ratings alone. While cultivar evaluation is one important application, it represents only part of the sod strength tester’s broader research potential. Beyond cultivar trials, the equipment can be used to compare management strategies and evaluate long-term turfgrass performance under traffic. For turfgrass managers, these measurements connect directly to outcomes that matter, including reduced divoting, improved surface stability, and better recovery following repeated stress. By integrating sod strength into our research programs, we can provide clearer guidance on how species selection, cultivar choice, and management decisions influence real-world durability. The following sections highlight two graduate research projects that demonstrate how the sod strength tester is being used to address practical challenges facing turfgrass managers. Evaluating Kentucky Bluegrass Cultivar Mixtures for Athletic Field Durability One of the first research applications of the sod strength tester will be within doctoral research conducted by Ava Veith, a Ph.D. student in Penn State’s Department of Plant Science under the advisement of Dr. Chase Straw. Her research focuses on athletic fields and how surface characteristics influence performance. Using the sod strength tester, she will compare Kentucky bluegrass cultivar mixtures to quantify differences in sod strength, recognizing that greater structural integrity and resistance to tearing are highly desirable for high-traffic athletic fields. Kentucky bluegrass remains a foundational species for many cool-season athletic fields due to its rhizomatous growth habit, strong recuperative potential, and ability to form a dense, uniform playing surface. Its capacity to spread laterally through rhizomes allows damaged areas to recover following traffic. However, not all Kentucky bluegrass cultivars express the same level of rhizome production or structural strength. Differences in rooting density, rhizome aggressiveness, and canopy structure can influence how well a surface resists divoting and tearing during athletic play. This study centers on a new Kentucky bluegrass cultivar developed by Dr. David Huff that is believed to exhibit more aggressive rhizome production. The experimental cultivar will be incorporated into mixtures at varying percentages alongside commercially available Kentucky bluegrass cultivars that are already widely used on athletic fields. By adjusting the proportion of the new cultivar within each mixture, the research aims to determine whether increasing the proportion of rhizome-aggressive genetics translates into measurable gains in sod strength. For athletic fields, increasing sod strength is particularly desirable. Fields subjected to repeated cleat traffic must resist shear forces generated during cutting, pivoting, and acceleration. Greater sod strength can reduce divoting, improve surface stability, and help maintain more consistent footing across high-use areas. Even small improvements in structural integrity may influence how a field performs over the course of a season. Ultimately, this research will provide sports field managers with clearer guidance on selecting Kentucky bluegrass cultivar mixtures that maximize durability under high-traffic conditions. Evaluating Cold-Tolerant Bermudagrass Cultivars for Structural Performance In addition to cool-season turfgrass research, the sod strength tester will also support graduate research led by Zineb Alouani, a master’s student in Penn State’s Department of Plant Science under the supervision of Dr. Chase Straw. Her research focuses on evaluating cold-tolerant bermudagrass cultivars for potential use in the transition zone and northern environments. Bermudagrass is widely used on athletic fields and golf courses in warmer climates due to its aggressive growth habit, excellent traffic tolerance, and ability to recover quickly from wear. However, cultivar performance can vary significantly, particularly when bermudagrass is grown outside of its traditional adaptation range. Cold tolerance, winter survival, and structural durability are key traits that influence whether a cultivar can perform reliably in cooler regions. As part of this research, experimental cold-tolerant bermudagrass cultivars developed by Dr. Yanqi Wu at Oklahoma State University will first be established and propagated in greenhouse conditions before being transplanted into field research plots. Once established, the sod strength tester will be used to quantify differences in sod strength and structural integrity among cultivars. By measuring how strongly the turfgrass-rootzone system resists tearing forces, the equipment provides an objective way to evaluate structural performance beyond traditional visual ratings. Integrating sod strength measurements into bermudagrass evaluation will help researchers better understand how differences in growth habit, rooting characteristics, rhizome development, and lateral spread influence turfgrass durability. Ultimately, this work will contribute to identifying cultivars that combine cold tolerance with the structural resilience required for high-traffic turfgrass systems in the transition zone and beyond. Why This Matters for Pennsylvania Turfgrass Managers For Pennsylvania turfgrass managers, this work aims to provide clearer, data-driven guidance. By incorporating sod strength measurements into ongoing research, Penn State can generate information that supports more confident decisions related to turfgrass species and cultivar selection. Rather than relying solely on appearance-based evaluations, managers will have access to objective performance data developed under Pennsylvania growing conditions. Importantly, this research is made possible through the support of the PTC and its members. PTC’s investment in the sod strength tester strengthens the connection between industry needs and university research efforts. As studies progress, findings will be shared through extension programming, publications, and outreach efforts to ensure that results are returned directly to the PTC community. The addition of this tool expands Penn State’s ability to address questions facing turfgrass managers while strengthening collaboration between university researchers and the turfgrass industry. Together, these efforts will help ensure that future research remains practical, regionally relevant, and focused on improving turfgrass performance across Pennsylvania. Looking Ahead: Continued Collaboration in Turfgrass Research The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council Board of Directors and its members play an important role in supporting turfgrass research at Penn State. Investments such as the sod strength tester strengthen the connection between industry needs and university research while creating new opportunities to better understand turfgrass performance. As these research projects develop, the findings will be shared through extension programming, publications, and outreach efforts to ensure that new knowledge is returned directly to the turfgrass professionals who support this work. Continued collaboration between Penn State researchers and the PTC community will help ensure that future research remains practical, relevant, and beneficial for turfgrass managers across Pennsylvania. We sincerely appreciate PTC’s continued investment in turfgrass research at Penn State. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Strength from the Ground Up: Measuring Sod Strength to Advance Turfgrass Research at Penn State appeared first on The Turf Zone .

October 9, 20262 min

Trinity Turf Begins New Chapter at Valley Fertilizer Location in Mt. Jackson

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. Trinity Turf, Inc. is proud to announce the opening of its newest wholesale distribution location in Mt. Jackson, Virginia, at the longtime home of Valley Fertilizer. For nearly 100 years, Valley Fertilizer served farmers, landscapers, businesses, and retailers throughout the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding region with quality products, knowledgeable service, and lasting customer relationships. While Valley Fertilizer has closed its doors, Trinity Turf is honored to continue serving the community from this historic location. Founded in 2004, Trinity Turf has grown into a trusted wholesale supplier of fertilizer, grass seed, agricultural seed, erosion control products, ice melter, and plant protection products throughout Virginia and the surrounding region. The company views this transition as an opportunity to build upon the legacy established by Valley Fertilizer while remaining committed to exceptional service and dependable products. “No one can replace what Valley Fertilizer meant to this community,” said Kurt Fellenstein, President of Trinity Turf, Inc. “Our goal isn’t to fill those shoes, but to honor that legacy by earning the trust of customers through the same values of integrity, service, and strong relationships.” As part of that commitment, Trinity Turf is pleased to announce that longtime Valley Fertilizer employees Tracy Meadows and Jason Burkett have joined the company as Customer Service Specialists. “Tracy and Jason have been a trusted resource for customers for many years,” Fellenstein said. “Their experience, product knowledge, and dedication make them an invaluable part of our team, and we’re excited they will continue serving the customers who have relied on them for so long.” From its Mt. Jackson location, Trinity Turf will offer a full line of wholesale fertilizer, turf and agricultural seed, erosion control products, ice melting products, and plant protection solutions while maintaining the responsive, personalized service customers have come to expect. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve this community,” Fellenstein added. “We look forward to building on the strong foundation that Valley Fertilizer created and earning our place as a trusted partner for years to come.” Trinity Turf, Inc. is a wholesale distributor serving agricultural, turf, landscape, and erosion control professionals throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast region. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Trinity Turf Begins New Chapter at Valley Fertilizer Location in Mt. Jackson appeared first on The Turf Zone .

October 7, 20264 min

NE-SFMA Member Spotlight on James Lappetito

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode spotlights New England Sports Field Management Association member James Lappetito – Head Sports Turf Manager at Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut. Read from New England Blade magazine. How did you get your start in the sports field industry? I went to Michigan State University for a BS in crop and soil science specializing in Turfgrass management. While in school I did an Internship with the Colorado Rapids MLS team. This was a 25-field mostly soccer facility. Including two synthetic fields, one sand-based practice field and the main stadium field. Where did you go from there? Denver Broncos Training facility (CO) – two natural grass field and one 70 yard plastic field: Game Day Inc (VA) – Mostly field construction and sprigging but managed our George Mason University account caring for all athletic fields; Dominion Valley CC (VA) – Two 18 hole courses; Maryland Soccerplex (MD) – 24 field soccer complex with cool season warm season and plastic fields; PPL Park (PA) – One high end stadium field; Pratt and Whitney Stadium(CT) – One High end stadium field and 110 acres of property. Who were your mentors when you were first starting out in the industry, and why? Bret Baird (Dicks Sporting Goods Park) – He was my first boss/trainer in the industry. Great teacher. He was my main driver early on to continue down the sport turf path and assisted in my employment with the Broncos. Jerad Minnick (Maryland Soccer Plex) – One of the most innovative turf minds I’ve ever met. He’s always pushed me to be the best turf manager I can be. Amazing teacher and friend. Has been one of my closest turf peers over the years. What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received? Sometimes the best but hardest thing you can do for turf is nothing. You need to let the plant just do what it does and grow. Once you have your plan in place you need to give time for the turf to react before you know if it’s working. Consistency is key. What is the next “game-changer” you see on the horizon for the sports turf industry? Testing improvements. The better we get at quality and useful data collection, the better we can do our jobs. I love data! Takes away the guessing when needing to make decisions. Robotics will also become more involved in our lives, but they aren’t quite ready for the high-end fields yet. What’s your favorite/most useful: Equipment? Anything related to surface hygiene, Sweepers, Turf rakes, Verticutters, Aerifiers, Spring Tine harrows Product? Any product that helps manage Organic Matter and water movement Technology? SGL Pods or any tool that helps monitor soil conditions What advice would you share with people starting out in sports field management today? When starting out, prioritize experience over status. Some of the best jobs experience I got early on were at places with small crews and budgets. Can you share a bit about your family life and/or what you enjoy doing in your free time? Kristin and I have been married since 2017. We have one daughter and two cats (currently dogless but that never lasts with us). We are both avid gardeners and scuba divers. I use my plant and soil science skills to push our extensive garden to new levels. I absolutely love cave diving, but any time spent underwater blowing bubbles brings me peace. Turf is my profession, Surf is my passion! Is there anything else you’d like to share with your fellow NE-SFMA members? Sports turf management is fun and rewarding, don’t forget that when you’re in the grind. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X, Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post NE-SFMA Member Spotlight on James Lappetito appeared first on The Turf Zone .

October 5, 20269 min

Investigating effects of Antisalt and CalPlus on creeping bentgrass quality and physiological fitness under salt stress

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode is investigating effects of Antisalt and CalPlus on creeping bentgrass quality and physiological fitness under salt stress. Written by Xunzhong Zhang, Mike Goatley, Maude Focke, Taylor Motsinger, Berit Smith, and Graham Sherman. Introduction and Objective Salt stress is one of the major limiting factors in turfgrass management in many areas. Various agronomic and chemical approaches have been used to alleviate salt-induced injury to turfgrass. Antisalt and CalPlus are two products which have been documented to improve plant tolerance to salt stress. The objective of this study was to investigate if foliar application of Antisalt and CalPlus at two different rates affects physiological fitness and quality of creeping bentgrass under salt stress conditions. Research Procedure Mature ‘A4’ creeping bentgrass plugs (4-inch diameter) were collected from field plots and transplanted into 6-inch pots filled with fine sand with 10% calcined clay in mid-September 2024. The bentgrass was maintained at 0.6 inch and fertilized biweekly. After about four weeks of non-stressed growth under optimum temperature, water, fertilizer, and light conditions, the grass was treated with the two products at two rates of the products each on October 8, 2024. There were 6 treatments with 4 replications. The product solution (rates listed below) was applied to the canopy, and the same amount of water was applied to the controls (treatments #1 and 6). The treated grass was grown in a controlled environment growth chamber at 71.6 ºF day (12 h)/64.4 ºF night, light intensity at 400 µmol m-2 s-1, 12 h photoperiod, and 65% relative humidity. After 12 h of the initial treatment, we initiated salt stress treatment. Sodium chloride (NaCl) solution at 2 ds/m concentration was added first, and then 4 ds/m concentration, and 6 ds/m concentration, and finally 8 ds/m concentration at 48 h after initiation of salt stress treatment. The salt concentration in the growth media was maintained at about 8 ds/m level during the trial by monitoring the salt concentration with a portable TDR-300 meter. The grass was irrigated with salt water and fresh water alternatively in order to maintain water content near field capacity and EC level at about 8 ds/m during the trial. The treatments include Fertilized control (0.15 lb N/1000 ft² biweekly) + salt stress; Antisalt at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² biweekly + salt stress; Antisalt at 9 fl oz/1000 ft² biweekly + salt stress; CalPlus at 3 oz/1000 ft² biweekly + salt stress; CalPlus at 9 oz/1000 ft² biweekly + salt stress; and Fertilized control, non-salt stress. Flobond LX50 Antisalt was provided by SNF Inc. (Riceboro, GA) and CalPlus was from Harrell’s (Lakeland, FL). The rate of N fertilization (from 28-8-18) for treatments #2, 3, 4, and 5 was the same as control treatments #1 and 6. Measurements The stress period of the trial lasted for 8 weeks with a total of 4 treatment applications. Bentgrass growth and physiological responses were measured biweekly. Root growth characteristics and viability were measured at the end of the trial. In addition, leaf tissue nutrient levels (N, P, K, Na, Ca, S, Mg) were determined with the ICP method. The data were subjected to an analysis of variance and where appropriate, mean separations were performed with a protected Fisher’s least significance difference test at a 5% probability level. Results and Discussion Leaf color and green leaf percentage (GL) Salt stress reduced leaf color ratings. CalPlus application at the two rates improved leaf color ratings relative to the control as measured from day 14 through day 56. Application of Antisalt also improved leaf color rating at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² at day 14, 28, and 56 when compared to the control. The GL declined in response to salt stress. CalPlus application at the two rates improved GL as measured at day 28, day 42, and day 56. Antisalt at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² also improved GL when compared to the control as measured at day 42 and 56. Clipping production and relative clipping weight Salt stress reduced plant growth and clipping production. Application of Antisalt and CalPlus at the two rates alleviated clipping reduction as measured at day 56. Salt stress reduced relative clipping weight, and Antisalt and CalPlus treatments has greater relative clipping weight than the salt control as measured at day 56. Leaf chlorophyll and carotenoids Salt stress reduced chlorophyll and carotenoids content. Application of CalPlus at the two rates increased chlorophyll content relative to the salt control at day 42 and 56. Antisalt treatment at the two rates also increased chlorophyll content relative to the salt control at day 42. Similarly, application of CalPlus at the two rates increased carotenoids content relative to the salt control at day 42 and 56. Antisalt treatment at the two rates also increased carotenoids content relative to the salt control at day 42. Leaf photochemical efficiency (PE) and antioxidant SOD activity Salt stress reduced PE. CalPlus treatments improved PE relative to salt control as measured from day 14 through day 56. Antisalt treatments also improved PE as measured at day 28, 42, and 56. Application of Antisalt and CalPlus at the two rates improved antioxidant enzyme SOD activity when compared to the salt control measured at day 42 and 56. Leaf nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, S, Mg) Application of Antisalt at 3 fl/1000 ft² and CalPlus at 9 fl oz/1000 ft² improved leaf N and S content relative to the control. Antisalt increased P content and CalPlus at both rates increased leaf Ca, S, and Mg content relative to the control. Root growth characteristics, relative root weight (RRWT) and viability Antisalt and CalPlus at 9 fl oz/1000 ft² increased root biomass, length, surface area, volume, viability, and relative root weight when compared to the salt control. Antisalt and Calplus at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² also improved root viability relative to the salt control. Summary. Applications of CalPlus at 3 and 9 fl oz/1000 ft² and Antisalt at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² improved leaf color, clipping production, photosynthetic pigments, photochemical efficiency, antioxidant SOD activity, and root growth and viability. Antisalt at 9 fl oz/1000 ft² also increased clipping production, photochemical efficiency, leaf chlorophyll, carotenoids, SOD activity, root biomass, and viability relative to the salt control at selected sampling dates. Antisalt at the low rate increased leaf N, P, and S content relative to the control, and CalPlus at both rates increased leaf Ca, S, and Mg content and also leaf N content at the high rate. In general, no consistent differences were observed between the two rates of CalPlus. Antisalt at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² tended to have better effects on leaf color and physiological fitness, and Antisalt at 9 fl zo/1000 ft² tended to have greater effects on root growth. Overall, the results of this study indicated foliar application of Antisalt and CalPlus at the two rates may improve salt stress tolerance by enhancing physiological fitness, leaf color, and root growth in creeping bentgrass. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Investigating effects of Antisalt and CalPlus on creeping bentgrass quality and physiological fitness under salt stress appeared first on The Turf Zone .

October 2, 20268 min

Potassium Acetate improves shade tolerance associated with carbohydrate metabolism in creeping bentgrass

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode covers how potassium acetate improves shade tolerance associated with carbohydrate metabolism in creeping bentgrass. Written by Taylor Flanary, Mike Goatley, and Xunzhong Zhang – School of Plant and Environmental Sciences – Virginia Tech – Blacksburg, VA Introduction and Objectives Potassium is one of the major essential nutrients in turfgrass management. Potassium acetate is a unique form of potassium available to plants because the acetate may provide a direct carbon source for plant metabolism, especially under stressful environments such as low light or shade. This study evaluated effects of potassium acetate on shade tolerance of creeping bentgrass as measured by plant growth, visual quality, biomass production, non-structural carbohydrates (TNC), and root growth. Materials and methods Greenhouse pot trial. We harvested mature ‘A4’ creeping bentgrass plugs (4″ diameter) from field plots and transplanted into 6 inch pots filled with fine sand and 10% calcined clay on February 15, 2023. The bentgrass was maintained at 0.6 inch and fertilized at 0.2 lb/1000 ft² at transplanting and then 0.15 lb N/1000 ft² biweekly thereafter. After about 8 weeks of non-stressed growth with optimum temperature, water, fertilizer, and light in greenhouse conditions. We initiated treatments as listed below, with all other management variables kept identical for the treatments. The product “Stress Relefe” containing 25% potassium derived from potassium acetate obtained from Harrell’s in April 2023 was used for this trial. We tested 4 treatments with 4 replications. The treatment solutions (listed below) were applied to the canopy with the same amount of water applied to the control (treatment #1). Immediately after treatment, the grass was subjected to artificial shade conditions. A frame was installed on the bench of the greenhouse and covered with black knit high-density polyethylene shade cloth, placed on the top of the frame and the cloth was placed about 20 inches above the grass canopy. This allowed 70% photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) to reach the canopy. The grass was kept well irrigated and light intensity, air temperature, and relative humidity were monitored hourly in the greenhouse. Treatments (applied biweekly): Fertilized control biweekly (0.10 lb N/1000 ft² from fertilizer 28-8-18 biweekly) K acetate 3 fl oz/1000 ft²/week + fertilized control biweekly K Acetate 3 fl oz/1000 ft²/biweekly + fertilized control K Acetate 6 fl oz/1000 ft²/biweekly + fertilized control The stress period of the trial lasted for 8 weeks and a total of 4 treatment applications were made to the plugs. Turf quality, physiological responses, clipping production, leaf protein content, and non-structural carbohydrates were measured biweekly. At the end of the trial, root biomass was measured. Results and Discussion Turf quality Foliar application of the potassium acetate product at 3 and 6 fl oz/1000 ft² biweekly improved turf quality relative to the control as measured on Day 14 and day 28, and all three potassium acetate rates improved turf quality relative to the control as measured at Day 42 and 56). The best turf quality was achieved when potassium acetate was applied at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² biweekly as measured at the end of the trial. Photochemical efficiency The potassium acetate at all rates improved PE relative to the control as measured from day 14 through day 56. Leaf chlorophyll content The potassium acetate at all rates improved chlorophyll content relative to the control as measured from day 14 through day 56. Among the treatments, potassium acetate at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² every 14 days tended to have better effects on chlorophyll content. Clipping production. There was no significant difference in clipping production among the treatments. Clipping weight tended to increase as the potassium acetate rate increased. Total soluble protein content. We found the protein measurement is more stable relative to amino acid content, so we measured leaf total soluble protein content in replacement of amino acid content. The potassium acetate significantly increased protein content in the leaf tissues as measured from day 28 through day 56. The total soluble content tended to increase as the potassium acetate rate increased. Leaf non-structural carbohydrate content The potassium acetate at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² weekly improved leaf glucose content when compared to the control as measured at day 56. The potassium acetate at all rates improved leaf fructose content as measured at day 14. The potassium acetate at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² biweekly improved fructose content as measured at day 28 and 42. At the end of the trial, potassium acetate at 6 fl oz/1000 ft² biweekly improved fructose content relative to the control. The potassium acetate at all rates improved leaf sucrose content when compared to the control as measured at day 56, with the treatment at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² weekly having better effects. The potassium acetate at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² weekly also improved sucrose content when compared to the control as measured at day 14 and 42. The potassium acetate at all rates improved leaf total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC, glucose + Fructose + sucrose) content when compared to the control as measured at day 56, with the treatment at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² weekly having better effects. The potassium acetate at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² weekly also improved TNC content when compared to the control as measured at day 14 and 42. Root biomass Foliar application of the potassium acetate product at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² weekly or biweekly and 6 fl oz/1000 ft² biweekly improved root biomass relative to the control. The greatest root biomass was found in the grass treated with potassium acetate at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² biweekly. Summary. Foliar application of potassium acetate improved turf quality, photochemical efficiency, leaf chlorophyll content, leaf protein and nonstructural carbohydrate content when compared to a non-treated control in creeping bentgrass managed under shade stress conditions. The potassium acetate treatments also improved root biomass relative to the control. No consistent differences in turf quality and physiological responses among the three potassium acetate treatments were found in this study. The potassium acetate applied at 3 fl oz/1000 ft² weekly tended to have larger effects on leaf sucrose and TNC. The results of this study suggest that foliar application of potassium acetate may improve creeping bentgrass performance under shade environments. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Potassium Acetate improves shade tolerance associated with carbohydrate metabolism in creeping bentgrass appeared first on The Turf Zone .

September 28, 20267 min

$1.1 million Virginia Turfgrass Foundation endowment expands graduate education and research

Welcome to The Turf Zone Podcast. A $1.1 million endowment established by the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation is creating lasting opportunities for graduate students in Virginia Tech’s School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, strengthening cutting-edge turfgrass research while advancing sustainable solutions for the turfgrass industry. Decades in the making, the endowment represents a milestone in the longstanding partnership between Virginia Tech and the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation. Established in 1988, the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation promotes the benefits of natural grass and works exclusively with the Virginia Tech Turfgrass Team in funding research that provides homeowners and industry professionals with strategies and tools to achieve the highest possible quality turfgrass with the fewest required management inputs. While the foundation has supported turfgrass research at the university for nearly 30 years, leaders from both organizations came together in 2017 with a renewed vision: to build a permanent, impactful funding model that could meaningfully support graduate education. “While we always appreciate the support on smaller, short-term projects that meet immediate industry needs, our goal was to move the needle — to truly support graduate students, their research, and the future of the turfgrass industry,” said David McCall, associate professor and Extension turfgrass pathologist. From vision to endowment That vision led the foundation’s leaders and Virginia Tech faculty members to explore how to maximize donor dollars for long-term impact. With guidance from alumni and industry partners, the foundation focused on building a true endowment — a permanent fund designed to generate annual support rather than provide short-term funding. A significant portion of this funding came from the Virginia Tech Turfgrass Research Classic Golf Tournament, which has raised more than $500,000 for the foundation. Additional contributions from industry partners and supporters also helped grow the fund, which is held in an endowment and brokerage account and drawn from annually. “This wasn’t about a one-time gift,” said Brandyn Baty, executive director of the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation. “We wanted something sustainable that would support students year after year, long after any one event or campaign.” Key foundation leaders involved in re-envisioning how the endowment supported Virginia Tech research included alumni Eric Frazier ‘00 and Dean Whitehead ‘99, along with Jim Wilson and Jeff Everhart, two honorary Hokies whose longstanding support has helped strengthen the partnership. Full support for graduate students Unlike many funding sources that support a portion of a student’s education through sponsoring specific projects, the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation endowment is designed to fully fund a graduate research assistantship. The foundation has committed to supporting at least one new graduate student annually, with the potential to support multiple students as the endowment continues to grow. “Giving students the opportunity to pursue graduate education without financial uncertainty changes everything,” McCall said. “It allows them to focus on innovation, discovery, and impact.” The first student supported by the foundation was Elisabeth Kitchin M.S. ‘25, whose master’s degree research set the standard for what the endowment could accomplish. Now a doctoral student, Kitchin also manages the university’s turfgrass research facility at Independence Golf Club in Midlothian. “Beyond just the financial support, the foundation and the broader Virginia turfgrass industry have provided me with an abundance of mentorship, encouragement, and guidance throughout my time as a graduate student,” Kitchin said. “As a young professional entering the turfgrass industry, I have felt genuinely supported by the researchers, educators, superintendents, and industry professionals around me.” Precision, technology, and sustainability Kitchin’s research focuses on precision turfgrass management, including the use of machine learning models to identify turfgrass diseases such as dollar spot, a common fungal disease that plagues the turfgrass industry. By improving the accuracy of disease identification and treatment, her work helps reduce unnecessary pesticide applications, saving costs and minimizing environmental impacts. She and endowment-supported student Sam Kreinberg, the first official graduate research assistant funded under the new long-term endowment structure, both focus on precision irrigation management — studying when, where, and how much water is needed across golf courses, sod farms, and home lawns. Kreinberg joined the turfgrass program in fall 2025 after completing his master’s degree at the University of Arkansas. His research integrates advanced technology and data-driven tools to help turfgrass managers make more informed decisions, improving water efficiency while maintaining high-quality playing surfaces. “These students are using technology to solve real-world problems,” said Mike Goatley, professor and Extension turfgrass specialist. “Their work directly benefits the turfgrass industry while supporting sustainability and environmental stewardship.” The endowment also enhances Virginia Tech’s close collaboration with the Independence Golf Club, where both Kitchin and Kreinberg conduct extensive research. This on-course research opens the doors for additional collaborations with the United States Golf Association, Syngenta Professional Solutions, and numerous other industry partners. Lasting Impact For the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation, the endowment reflects not just financial support, but a long-term commitment to students and the land-grant mission of Virginia Tech. “This is about investing in people,” McCall said. “When you invest in graduate students, you invest in research, sustainability, and the future of an entire industry.” As the endowment continues to grow, foundation leaders hope to expand the number of students supported — ensuring that the partnership between Virginia Tech and the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation continues to thrive for generations of students to come. “The endowment allows us to attract great young women and men equipped with the knowledge, work ethic, and personality to succeed,” Goatley said. “The students serve as our program’s bridge to the future of turfgrass science.” This article was written by Tyler Baugrass and was featured in Virginia Turfgrass Journal. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post $1.1 million Virginia Turfgrass Foundation endowment expands graduate education and research appeared first on The Turf Zone .

September 25, 20264 min

Turfgrass Research

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode features an update on research projects funded by the New England Regional Turfgrass Foundation, written by Executive Director Gary Sykes. When the Foundation was created, it was the goal to fund substantial turfgrass research at our local universities. We had expected research proposals from UMass, URI and UNH since they had some ongoing activity already within their programs along with highly skilled personnel. The idea was that local research would be the most valuable to our local industry and that would be our focus. We were unaware that things were changing. In New Hampshire the program diminished due to some retirements, but in Connecticut their administrators were convinced that by dedicating funds and support to their Turfgrass Program would be beneficial to the school and the industry. It was a good hunch! New hires to grow the program immediately made a positive impact including the expansion of the turfgrass research facility. Since 1998, the Foundation has had its hand in distributing $3.4 M in research proposal funding to the universities, mostly UConn, UMass and URI. What is the Foundation up to today? Currently, the foundation has agreed to fund $180,195.77 for 2026 divided between 8 separate research projects. Here are the projects being funded in 2026: A Chemical Scent Lure to Attract Bumble Bee Queens to Nest in Irrigation Valve Boxes (Dr. Steve Alm, URI, 3 Years) Autonomous and Conventional Mowing Strategies Impact on Mowing Quality, Turfgrass Quality and Disease Incidence in Cool-Season Grasses (Dr. Jason Henderson, UConn, 2 Years) Evaluating Factors Impacting the Winter Survival and Spring Recovery in Cool-Season Turfgrasses (Dr. Michelle DaCosta, UMass, 2 Years) Management of Yellow Ring Symptoms Associated with an Emerging Turfgrass Pathogen (Dr. John Inguagiato, UConn, 2 Years) Pre- and Post-Emergence Application Timings for Goosegrass Management in New England. (Dr. Maureen Kahiu, UConn, 2 Years) Autonomous Mowing Impacts on Canada Geese Foraging Behavior and Cool-season Turfgrass Quality During Dormancy and Active Growth, (Dr. Jason Henderson, UConn, 2 Years) Evaluating Autonomous Mowing Schedule for Turf Quality and Dollar Spot Management (Dr. Geunhwa Jung, UMass, 1 Year) Optimizing the Growth Rate of Sports Turf by Integrating Plant Growth Regulators and Cultural Practices (Dr. Evan Mascitti, UMass, 3 Years) Just a word of appreciation to always remember that without the New England Regional Turfgrass Conference and Show (March 2 – 4, 2027), we would not have the funds for this capacity of research, and without the commitment of attendees, exhibitors, sponsors, and speakers, we would not have a show or a pot to you-know-what in! Our united focus has made this all work and continue to perform beyond expectations. What does the future hold? Let’s hope for fair seas and following winds, but let’s always prepare for future challenges! New England Regional Turfgrass Foundation President Ben Polimer and Director Mike Buras are the New England Sports Field Management Association’s representatives on the New England Regional Turfgrass Foundation Board of Directors. For additional details on grant awards, and the March Turfgrass Conference, visit NERTF.org . You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Turfgrass Research appeared first on The Turf Zone .

September 23, 20261 min

Sports Turf Field Day – Join ATA & GSFMA at Regions Field

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. The Alabama Turfgrass Association is excited to join the Georgia Sports Field Management Association for a special Sports Turf Field Day on Tuesday, October 6, at Birmingham Barons Stadium at Regions Field in Birmingham. This event will serve as ATA’s biannual Sports Turf Field Day, bringing sports turf professionals together for a day of education, networking and sharing ideas with fellow field managers. If you manage a sports field—whether at a minor league facility, municipal complex, public or private school, university or other athletic facility—this is an event you won’t want to miss. The day will feature breakout sessions, opportunities to visit with industry partners, and a general session addressing a topic that could have a significant impact on turf management this winter: “Preparing for a Super El Niño This Winter,” presented by Dr. Dave Han of Auburn University. This is a great opportunity to get out of the office, connect with your fellow sports turf professionals and gain practical knowledge you can take back to your fields. ATA sports turf managers—make plans to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to learn, network and connect with your peers across Alabama and Georgia. For additional details and registration, visit www.GeorgiaSTMA.org You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X , Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Sports Turf Field Day – Join ATA & GSFMA at Regions Field appeared first on The Turf Zone .