Source: PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY submitted to
SOIL TESTING AND MANAGEMENT FOR IMPROVED NUTRIENT-USE EFFICIENCY OF TURFGRASS SYSTEMS
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
TERMINATED
Funding Source
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0194812
Grant No.
(N/A)
Project No.
PEN03942
Proposal No.
(N/A)
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Program Code
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Apr 1, 2003
Project End Date
Mar 31, 2009
Grant Year
(N/A)
Project Director
Schlossberg, M. J.
Recipient Organization
PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY
208 MUELLER LABORATORY
UNIVERSITY PARK,PA 16802
Performing Department
CROP & SOIL SCIENCES
Non Technical Summary
Nutrient use efficiency of turfgrass systems is not currently maximized. The project purpose is to identify and develop improved fertilization and soil amendment methods for turfgrass systems.
Animal Health Component
(N/A)
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
100%
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
1022130101070%
1022130200030%
Goals / Objectives
1. Determine the effects of turfgrass cultivation on surface applications of lime for improved soil acidity amelioration. 2. Determine optimum soil pH and nutrient levels for improved vigor of the Penn Pal bentgrasses (A-4, A-1, G-2, Penncross, Pennlinks, etc.) in sand-based root-zone mixes and mineral soils. 3. Evaluate CEC-enhancing soil amendments for improved nutrient-use efficiency in soils and sand-based root-zone mixes. 4. Estimate suitability of the base cation saturation ratio (BSCR) and estimated sufficiency level methods for interpretation of soil nutrient test results and assignment of fertilizer recommendations in creeping bentgrass soil and sand-based systems. 5. Use of geostatistical analysis for development of soil sampling designs (techniques) for golf course fairways on the basis of landscape position, etc., and development of a sampling design for soil testing of golf course putting greens on the basis of root-zone mix and hydrologic gradient/topography.
Project Methods
1. Field experiments will be established in local turfgrass stands with suboptimal soil acidity levels. A strip-plot design of varying cultivation practices by differing calcium carbonate equivalency and particle size liming materials will be employed. Soil reaction by depth will be monitored. Services of the PSU Agricultural Analytical Services Lab (AASL) will be contracted for sample analysis. Photographs of the site will be recorded. Submission of results to scholarly journals is planned for early 2005. Positive results will result in reissue of related extension service publications. 2. Greenhouse and field calibration experiments conducted at University Park (UP) on established containers and plots will determine optimum ranges of mineral nutrient availability at varying levels of soil pH for the Penn brand creeping bentgrasses. Overall turf quality, comprised of clipping yield, root growth, and aesthetic/visual ratings, will be quantified. Field studies will be conducted under putting green conditions with maintenance and equipment provided by Departmental staff at the Valentine Turfgrass Research Center. Sample analysis will be conducted within the Dept. of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS). Data and methods will be recorded by photographic and video media. Compiled results will be submitted to scholarly journals for publication. Positive results will result in modification of AASL soil test result recommendations and reissue of related extension service publications. 3. Laboratory, greenhouse, and field studies will be coordinated in UP to evaluate benefits of organic and inorganic soil amendments in increasing cation exchange capacity of amended sand-based turfgrass root zones. Studies will examine cation adsorption and root uptake/desorption kinetics in the turfgrass-soil system. Sample analysis will be conducted within the Dept. of CSS. Data and methods will be recorded by photographic and video media. Resulting manuscripts will be submitted for publication in scholarly journals. 4. Greenhouse studies will be conducted in UP to determine any enhancement of creeping bentgrass vigor by fertilizer applications made on the base cation saturation ratio concept compared to the estimated sufficiency concept of fertilizer recommendation. These experiments will be conducted in traditional parametric experimental designs, to minimize experimental unit requirements and error. Experimental methods and sites will be carefully recorded by multimedia technology. Experimental results will likely be submitted for publication in scholarly journals. 5. Conduct soil sampling trials of putting greens and fairways at local and regional operating golf courses. This information can be used with non-parametric statistical analysis to determine critical soil sampling design assignment. Soil analysis wil be conducted within the Dept. of CSS and at the AASL. Similarities in best sampling designs will be examined by region, soil type, root mix, application method, etc. Experimental methods and sites will be carefully recorded. The eventual method of publishing experimental results will likely be a turfgrass manager's guide to soil sampling.

Progress 04/01/03 to 03/31/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Objective 1 outputs, resulting from four independent multi-year experiments, include invited presentations at: two national FGD Workshops (St. Louis MO, 2006; and Atlanta GA, 2007), attended by over 200 professional stakeholders, and currently available at www.FGDProducts.org; three regional conferences in 2004 (Chicago, Atlanta, and University Park, PA) and four presentations at international scientific meetings (Amer. Soc. of Agronomy [ASA], 2006 & 2007; WOCA, Lexington, KY 2005). Likewise, 300 golf course superintendents viewed the presentation at the nationally-prominent 2007 Golf Turf Conference in Univ. Park, PA. These findings have been used to update extension and education in PA and the SE US. Objective 2 outputs, resulting from six independent field experiments showcased to hundreds of stakeholder attendees during 2004, 2006, and 2008 Field Days held each August in University Park, PA., include four presentations at the 2007 (2) and 2008 (2) ASA meetings, and invited presentations made to 240 golf course superintendents in Washington DC (2007) and Cody, Wyoming (2009). Likewise, results of this research were used to develop Penn A4 putting green fertilization guidelines in both Europe and the US (http://www.tee-2-green.com/download.phpobj_id=1104&browser=true) (http://www.tee-2-green.com/management_practices.php). Objective 2 research results have also improved PSU undergraduate coursework (TURF 435) over the project duration (40 undergraduate student enrollees each year). Objective 3 outputs, resulting from one independent multi-year experiment, include three presentations at the 2004 (1) and 2007 (2) ASA meetings, one presentation in Prague (2006), and two invited presentations made to over 120 golf course superintendent attendees (2009, Cody, WY and Valley Forge, PA). Outputs associated with Objectives 4 and 5, resulting from two independent field experiments, include continued analysis of base cation saturation ratio and soil sampling interpretations and recommendations. Furthermore, Objectives 4 and 5 research results were used to develop an interactive module (The Sanford Stadium Case Study) used in undergraduate instruction at PSU. Facilitating troubleshooting skills in appropriate analytical procedure selection(s), this case study has been presented as a classroom group exercise to >300 students since graduated in agricultural sciences over the project duration. PARTICIPANTS: Maxim J. Schlossberg, principal investigator of this Hatch Project (PEN03942). Dr. Schlossberg participates in this project by identifying project priorities and either overseeing or personally conducting all research activities; including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and recommendations. David Moody (MS Soil Science, 2007), Joshua Cook (MS Agronomy, 2009), Ingrid Hersh (MS Agronomy, 2007), and Jing Dai, doctoral candidate in the PSU Crop & Soil Sciences Dept., have participated in this research project and contributed to the achievement of project objectives. Moreover, the project contributes to the research training and professional development of the participants. Partner organizations include; Southern Company, International Plant Nutrient Institute, Honeywell Specialty Materials, Lebanon Seaboard Company, United Agri-Products, the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, and the United States Golf Assn. Collaborators include: Drs. William P. Miller, Malcolm Sumner, John P. Schmidt, Peter J. Landschoot, Richard Stehouwer, and Micah Woods. TARGET AUDIENCES: All individuals currently managing or planning to manage turfgrass systems; or contributing or planning to contribute to the management of turfgrass systems on any worldly continent comprise the target audience of this Hatch Project. Specifically, but not limited to; golf course superintendents, sports turf managers (including football, baseball, softball, croquet, lawn bowling, cricket, tag, tennis, soccer, rugby, archery, tetherball, Frisbee, and field hockey), lawn care operators, residential occupants, cemetery caretakers, municipal park overseers, landscape architects, researchers, soil blenders, sales associates/managers, extension agents, government regulators, educators, instructors, and anyone planning to serve in one of the above mentioned capacities. Publications (not previously reported): 2008/10 TO 2009/9 Kruse, J.S., W.P. Miller, M.J. Schlossberg, D. Yanosky, and D.B. Hall. 2009. Predicting tall fescue root growth response to calcium/aluminum solution concentrations. Comm. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 40(7&8):1227-1239. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
The impact of Objective 1 outputs demonstrates to turfgrass managers advantages in cultivating turfgrass systems (either by vertical mowing or core aerification) prior to surface broadcast of liming agents. Considering the deleterious effects on turfgrass quality associated with soil acidity, the recommendation to cultivate turfgrass surfaces prior to lime application facilitates improved lime application efficacy and turfgrass quality and constitutes a management adjustment. Outcomes of Objective 2 outputs prove combinations of nitrogen and iron fertilizers influence Penn A4 creeping bentgrass putting green quality and stress tolerance. Stakeholders have adopted these techniques as improved management skills that contribute to greater recovery of fertilizer applications and improved water quality. The primary impact of Objective 3 outputs is greater understanding of how labile-substrate inclusions influence beneficial or adverse transformations of native organic matter depositions within turfgrass systems. Stakeholders now use these findings to select soil amendments that will improve irrigation use efficiency. Impacts of Objectives 4 and 5 have been a change in knowledge regarding soil testing, interpretation, and recommendations. This greater understanding was paramount in development of the above mentioned case study. In this application, each student group elects the procedures to conduct, and the actual results are immediately provided to each independent group. Then the students identify the causal component and devise a plan to treat and ameliorate the condition. Feedback and student performance have been positive, with students discovering attributes of alternative approaches taken by different groups. The case study is being developed into an interactive web-based instructional module.

Publications

  • Kruse, J.S., W.P. Miller, M.J. Schlossberg, D. Yanosky, and D.B. Hall. 2009. Predicting tall fescue root growth response to calcium/aluminum solution concentrations. Comm. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 40(7&8):1227-1239.
  • Dai, J., D.R. Huff, and M.J. Schlossberg. 2009. Salinity effects on seed germination and vegetative growth of greens-type Poa annua relative to other cool-season turfgrass species. Crop Sci. 49:696-703.
  • Cook, P.J., P.J. Landschoot, and M.J. Schlossberg. 2009. Inhibition of Pythium spp. and suppression of Pythium blight of turfgrasses with phosphonate fungicides. Plant Disease 93:809-814.
  • Cook, P.J., P.J. Landschoot, and M.J. Schlossberg. 2009. Suppression of anthracnose basal rot symptoms and improved putting green quality with phosphonate fungicides. International Turfgrass Society Research Journal 11:181-194.
  • Dai, J., M.J. Schlossberg, and D.R. Huff. 2008. Salinity tolerance of 33 greens-type Poa annua experimental lines. Crop Sci. 48:1187-1192.


Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Objective 1 output this year includes a peer-reviewed publication (Schlossberg et al.). Objective 2 outputs include two presentations at the 2008 Amer. Soc. of Agronomy meetings. Objective 3 outputs this year include two invited presentations made to over 300 golf course superintendent attendees (Eastern and Western Pennsylvania Turfgrass Conferences). Research results have contributed greater understanding of how labile-substrate inclusions influence beneficial transformations of native organic matter depositions within turfgrass systems. PARTICIPANTS: Maxim J. Schlossberg, principal investigator of this Hatch Project (PEN03942). Dr. Schlossberg participates in this project by identifying project priorities and either overseeing or personally conducting all research activities; including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and recommendations. Ms. Jing Dai, doctoral candidate in the PSU Crop & Soil Sciences Dept., participates in this research project and contributes to the achievement of objective 2. Moreover, the project contributes to the research training and professional development of Ms. Dai. Syngenta Corp. has provided significant financial support of described activities. TARGET AUDIENCES: All individuals currently managing or planning to manage turfgrass systems; or contributing or planning to contribute to the management of turfgrass systems on any worldly continent comprise the target audience of this Hatch Project. Specifically, but not limited to; golf course superintendents, sports turf managers (including football, baseball, softball, croquet, lawn bowling, cricket, tag, tennis, soccer, rugby, archery, tetherball, Frisbee, and field hockey), lawn care operators, residential occupants, cemetery caretakers, municipal park overseers, landscape architects, researchers, soil blenders, sales associates/managers, extension agents, government regulators, educators, instructors, and anyone planning to serve in one of the above mentioned capacities. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
The impact of Objective 1 outputs demonstrates to turfgrass managers advantages in cultivating turfgrass systems (either by vertical mowing or core aerification) prior to surface broadcast of liming agents. Considering the deleterious effects on turfgrass quality associated with soil acidity, the recommendation to cultivate turfgrass surfaces prior to lime application facilitates improved lime application efficacy and turfgrass quality. Outcomes of Objective 2 outputs show combinations of nitrogen and iron fertilizers influence Penn A4 creeping bentgrass putting green quality and stress tolerance. The primary impact of Objective 3 outputs is that golf course and/or turfgrass managers recognize viable alternatives to physical thatch removal.

Publications

  • Schlossberg, M.J., F.C. Waltz, Jr., P.J. Landschoot, and B. Park. 2008. Recent mechanical cultivation of lawns enhances lime application efficacy. Agron. J. 100:855-861.
  • Dai, J. and M.J. Schlossberg. 2008. No more paper bags Turfgrass clipping yield correlates well with normalized differential vegetative index. In 2008 Joint Annual Meeting: GSA, ASA, CSSA, SSSA, GCACS Abstracts. Houston, TX. October 5-9,2008. Dai 564-9. CD ROM
  • Dai, J. and M.J. Schlossberg. 2008. Iron for nitrogen: Maximizing color and minimizing growth of bentgrass putting greens through prescribed nitrogen and iron formulations. In 2008 Joint Annual Meeting: GSA, ASA, CSSA, SSSA, GCACS Abstracts. Houston, TX. October 5-9, 2008. Dai 647-7. CD ROM


Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Objective 1 outputs this year include two pending peer-reviewed publications (Schlossberg et al. and Kruse et al.), three invited presentations given at national workshops, and a presentation at a scientific meeting. Two invited presentations made at national FGD Workshops (St. Louis MO, 2006; and Atlanta GA, 2007), were received by over 200 professional stakeholders in attendance, and are currently available on the website; www.FGDProducts.org. Likewise, 300 golf course superintendents viewed the presentation at the nationally-prominent 2007 Golf Turf Conference at Univ. Park, PA. Fifty university faculty members viewed the presentation at the 2007 Amer. Soc. of Agronomy meetings, and are likely to incorporate these findings into their extension and education activities. Objective 2 outputs include a 2006 professional publication, a 2007 peer-reviewed publication, two presentations at the 2007 Amer. Soc. of Agronomy meetings, and an invited presentation made to 240 golf course superintendents outside Washington DC (April). Likewise, results of this research were used to develop Penn A4 putting green fertilization guidelines this year in both Europe and the US. Objective 3 outputs this year include two 2007 presentations at the 2007 Amer. Soc. of Agronomy meetings, and two invited presentations made to over 120 golf course superintendent attendees, and a 2007 peer-reviewed publication (Schlossberg). Research results have contributed greater understanding of how labile-substrate inclusions influence maturation of organic amendments within turfgrass soil systems, and how maturation of organic soil amendments affects water-repellency, nutrient availability, and turfgrass uptake of trace elements. PARTICIPANTS: Maxim J. Schlossberg, principal investigator, participates in this project by identifying project priorities and personally conducting all research activities; including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and recommendations. Southern Company Services (Birmingham, AL) and Georgia-Pacific Resins (Atlanta, GA) have provided significant financial support of described activities. TARGET AUDIENCES: All individuals currently managing or planning to manage turfgrass systems; or contributing or planning to contribute to the management of turfgrass systems on any worldly continent comprise the target audience. Specifically, but not limited to; golf course superintendents, sports turf managers (including football, baseball, softball, croquet, lawn bowling, cricket, tag, tennis, soccer, rugby, archery, tetherball, Frisbee, and field hockey), lawn care operators, residential occupants, cemetery caretakers, municipal park overseers, landscape architects, researchers, soil blenders, sales associates/managers, extension agents, government regulators, educators, instructors, and anyone planning to serve in one of the above mentioned capacities.

Impacts
The impact of Objective 1 outputs demonstrates to turfgrass managers advantages in cultivating turfgrass systems (either by vertical mowing or core aerification) prior to surface broadcast of liming agents. Considering the deleterious effects on turfgrass quality associated with soil acidity, the recommendation to cultivate turfgrass surfaces prior to lime application will facilitate improved lime application efficacy and turfgrass quality. Likewise, presentation of my findings that surface gypsum applications made to acid soils improve shoot/root growth and drought resistance of tall fescue and bermudagrass, helps mangers of these systems maximize nutrient use efficiency and turfgrass quality. Rapid amelioration of severe subsoil acidity by this innovative technique can potentially benefit thousands of golf courses and managed turfgrass systems (currently possessing acid soil complex) worldwide. Moreover, because traditional subsoil acidity ameliorative techniques (deep subsoil amendment of managed turfgrass systems) consumes tremendous quantities of fuel and labor resources, the benefits of employing innovative practice extend beyond simple turfgrass quality measures. Outcomes of Objective 2 outputs show nitrogen fertilizer form to influence Penn A4 creeping bentgrass/annual bluegrass putting green nutrient availability as significantly as exchangeable soil nutrient levels. Thus, availability of soil phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese to Penn A4 creeping bentgrass can be enhanced without increasing application frequency or rate of nutrient-supplying fertilizers. Reduced emphasis on soil P availability appears to stave off encroachment of creeping bentgrass putting greens by aggressive weed species, improves nutrient use efficiency, and maximizes turfgrass quality. More importantly, use of nitrogen form to improve phosphorous availability provides an environmentally-friendly alternative to phosphorous fertilizer applications. Considering phosphorous comprises the most problematic nutrient load in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, dissemination of the above-described research findings have promoted the reduction of phosphorous fertilizer use on cohabited golf course putting greens managed in the Mid-Atlantic region. The primary impact of Objective 3 outputs is that golf course and/or turfgrass managers can now select organic soil amendments on the basis of their long-term advantages and disadvantages. Considering the deleterious effects of water repellency on turfgrass quality, results of our research help superintendents avoid the inadvertent selection of amendments with a predisposition for repelling water. This is particularly useful to superintendents practicing in regions of the country where the scarcity of irrigation water becomes more problematic each year.

Publications

  • Schlossberg, M. J. 2006. Nitrogen the driving force! US Golf Assn. Green Section Record, July/Aug. pp. 30-34.
  • Schlossberg, M.J. 2007. Trace elements in turfgrass clippings collected from coal combustion product-amended putting greens. Appl. Turfgrass Science. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/ats/element/sum.asp?id=6177&pho to=3445
  • Fidanza, M.A., J.L. Cisar, S.J. Kostka, J.E. Gregos, M.J. Schlossberg, and M. Franklin. 2007. Preliminary investigation of soil chemical and physical properties associated with type-I fairy ring symptoms in turfgrass. Hydrol. Process. 21:2285-2290.
  • Hersh, I.E. and M.J. Schlossberg. 2007. The efficacy of iron in alleviating phytotoxic damage caused by foliar nitrogen applications to creeping bentgrass putting greens. Electronic conference proceedings, Intl. ASA CSSA SSSA Annual Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana. Nov. 2007. Abstract 268-33. CD ROM.
  • Hersh, I.EMoody, D.R., M.J. Schlossberg, M.A. Fidanza, and A.S. McNitt. 2007. Comparison of ninety degree surface tension test and repellency index as measures of soil water repellency. Electronic conference proceedings, Intl. ASA CSSA SSSA Annual Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana. Nov. 2007. Abstract 74-756. CD ROM.
  • Hersh, I.E. and M.J. Schlossberg. 2007. Predicting phytotoxicity of creeping bentgrass putting greens from foliar nitrogen applications. Electronic conference proceedings, Intl. ASA CSSA SSSA Annual Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana. Nov. 2007. Abstract 73-3. CD ROM.
  • Dai, J., M.J. Schlossberg, and D.R. Huff. 2007. Salinity tolerance of greens-type Poa annua L. Electronic conference proceedings, Intl. ASA CSSA SSSA Annual Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana. Nov. 2007. Abstract 73-5. CD ROM.
  • Moody, D.R., M.J. Schlossberg, and M.A. Fidanza. 2007. Does the systematic application of a molasses-based biostimulant influence organic matter decomposition? Electronic conference proceedings, Intl. ASA CSSA SSSA Annual Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana. Nov. 2007. Abstract 168-8. CD ROM.
  • Schlossberg, M.J., J. Kruse, and W.P. Miller. 2007. Tall fescue root and shoot response to gypsum treatment of acid soil. Electronic conference proceedings, Intl. ASA CSSA SSSA Annual Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana. Nov. 2007. Abstract 337-2. CD ROM.
  • Schlossberg, M.J. and J.P. Schmidt. 2007. Influence of Nitrogen Rate and Form on Quality of Putting Greens Cohabited by Creeping Bentgrass and Annual Bluegrass. Agronomy Journal. 99(1):99-106


Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

Outputs
This year's progress toward achievement of Objective 1 involved statistical analysis of multi-year data collected from experiments repeated in Univ. Park & Georgia. An additional experiment evaluating surface applications of gypsum as a subsoil acidity ameliorant was conducted in 2006 and results presented at scholarly meetings. Results of all studies are currently being prepared for submission to scholarly journal(s). Results of five independent experiments conducted to satisfy Objective 2 reveal fertilization source and rate affect canopy color, biomass production, organic matter accumulation, nutrient uptake, and fertilizer use efficiency of Penn A4 creeping bentgrass putting greens, in monostands or in cohabitation with annual bluegrass. The resulting summary has been accepted for early-2007 publication in a referred-journal. Completion of a study evaluating organic or inorganic amendment to sand-based root zones has resulted in a better understanding of maturation influence on organic amendments (Objective 3). These results were presented this fall and are being prepared for submission to scholarly journals. A 2-year field study, measuring suitability of current soil testing, interpretation, and fertilizer recommendations for creeping bentgrass putting greens was concluded this year. Results showed soil phosphorus to enhance competitiveness of weeds (particularly Poa annua) in creeping bentgrass putting greens. Soil test-results, particularly phosphorus (P) fertilizer recommendations, require modification and/or adjustment to assist managers achieve the highest quality putting greens. These findings are being prepared for submission to scholarly journals. Progress toward achievement of Objective Five has been steady, with soil sample analysis continuing. No further golf course soil sampling was conducted in 2006.

Impacts
Results show advantages in cultivating turfgrass systems prior to surface broadcast of liming agents. However, surface applications of gypsum to an acid soil improved shoot/root growth and drought resistance of tall fescue and bermudagrass. This information will help mangers rapidly improve nutrient use efficiency and maximize turfgrass quality. Rapid amelioration of acidity by innovative technique may benefit over 10,000 golf courses (currently possessing acid soil complex) worldwide. Penn A4 creeping bentgrass results show nitrogen fertilizer form to influence nutrient availability as significantly as exchangeable soil nutrient levels. Thus, availability of soil phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese to Penn A4 creeping bentgrass can be enhanced without increasing application frequency or rate of nutrient-supplying fertilizers. Reduced emphasis on soil P availability appears to stave off encroachment of creeping bentgrass putting greens by aggressive weed species, improve nutrient use efficiency, and maximize turfgrass quality. Results of soil sampling numerous golf courses will enable development and use of site-specific sampling protocols.

Publications

  • Schlossberg, M.J., Waltz, F.C. and Miller, W.P. 2006. Amelioration of soil acidity with a class-C fly ash: A field study. In Coal Combustion Byproducts and Environmental Issues, Springer Science, New York, NY, pp. 241.
  • Schlossberg, M.J., Miller, W.P. and Kruse, J. 2006. Turfgrass growth and water use in gypsum-treated ultisols. In SSSA Annual Meetings Abstracts, November 12-16, 2006, Indianapolis, IN. CD ROM.
  • Kruse, J., Miller, W.P. and Schlossberg, M.J. 2006. Tall fescue root growth and clipping yield response to gypsum in highly weathered acid soils. In CSSA Annual Meetings Abstracts, November 12-16, 2006, Indianapolis, IN. CD ROM.
  • Moody, D., Schlossberg, M.J., McNitt, A.S. and Fidanza, M.A. 2006. Influence of amendment and irrigation frequency on soil water repellency development in sand-based root mixes. In CSSA Annual Meetings Abstracts, November 12-16, 2006, Indianapolis, IN. CD ROM.
  • Dai, J., Schlossberg, M.J., Archibald, D.D. and Huff, D.R. 2006. Salinity tolerance of 33 greens-type annual bluegrass experimental lines. In CSSA Annual Meetings Abstracts, November 12-16, 2006, Indianapolis, IN. CD ROM.


Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05

Outputs
This year's progress toward achievement of Objective One includes laboratory analytical processes and statistical analysis of multi-year samples collected from two unique experimental locations (Univ. Park & Georgia). Results are currently being summarized and a manuscript in preparation for submission to scholarly journal(s). Continued progress toward achievement of Objective Two occurred this summer on a new putting green location (Univ. Park). Results of the five independent experiments conducted on established Penn A4 creeping bentgrass plots in 2004 demonstrate effects of fertilization source and rate on canopy color, biomass production, organic matter accumulation, nutrient uptake, and fertilizer use efficiency. These results are being prepared and summarized for submission to scholarly journal(s). Data collected from a Kentucky bluegrass amendment study (Objective 3) were used to conclude spent mushroom substrate compost topdressing and provides both physical (increased water retention, decreased surface hardness) and chemical (increased cation exchange capacity) benefits to high-use, athletic fields receiving prescribed application rates. A 2-year field study, measuring suitability of current soil testing, interpretation, and fertilizer recommendations for creeping bentgrass putting greens was concluded this year. Results showed soil phosphorus to enhance competitiveness of weeds (particularly Poa annua) in creeping bentgrass putting greens. Soil test-results, particularly those involving phosphorus (P) fertilizer recommendations and creeping bentgrass/Poa annua putting greens, may require modification/adjustment to assist managers achieve the highest quality putting greens. Progress toward achievement of Objective Five has been steady, with soil sample collection continuing in 2004-2005, and samples from 2003-2005 continually being analyzed in the laboratory. As a sizable and robust data set is essential for development of soil sampling protocol, further sampling is scheduled for golf courses in the Mid-Atlantic and Midwestern regions of the US.

Impacts
Results from the soil acidity experiment (Obj. 1) indicate advantages in cultivating turfgrass systems prior to broadcast liming. This information will help mangers rapidly improve nutrient use efficiency and maximize turfgrass quality. Rapid amelioration of acidity by innovative technique may benefit over 10,000 golf courses (currently possessing acid soil complex) worldwide. Recent study of nutrient uptake and vigor of Penn A4 creeping bentgrass (Obj. 2) show unique nutrient management guidelines to maximize Penn A4 quality, while minimizing inputs and environmental risk. Likewise, topdressing of spent mushroom substrate soil amendment to Kentucky bluegrass turf increased cation exchange capacity and other favorable soil properties. This information enables turfgrass managers to rapidly and inexpensively improve nutrient use efficiency in fields having suboptimal traits (Obj. 3). Results from a 2-year study indicate current soil testing and fertilizer recommendations for creeping bentgrass may overestimate plant requirements for phosphorus. Reduced emphasis on soil P availability may stave off encroachment of creeping bentgrass putting greens by aggressive weed species, improve nutrient use efficiency, and maximize turfgrass quality (Obj. 4). Soil sampling, testing, & reporting of nutrient and soil chemistry are critical aspects of maintaining resilient turfgrass systems (Obj. 5). Results collected from multi-site experiments support site-specific sampling protocols; a simple and efficacious user's guide to achievement of enhanced turfgrass nutrient efficiency.

Publications

  • Brosnan, J., McNitt, A.S., Petrunak, D.M., and Schlossberg, M.J. 2004. Evaluation of compost as a topdressing to multi-use athletic fields. In CSSA Annual Meetings Abstracts, October 31-November 4, 2004, Seattle, WA. Brosnan 6540. CD ROM.
  • Raley, R., Hamilton, G., Landschoot, P., and Schlossberg, M. 2005. Nitrogen and Phosphorus Impact Annual Bluegrass Encroachment into Creeping Bentgrass Greens. In CSSA Annual Meetings Abstracts, November 6-10, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT. Raley 8359. CD ROM.


Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04

Outputs
Progress toward achievement of Objective One includes installation of two experiments; one at the Valentine Turfgrass Research Facility, and another at the Georgia Agricultural Research Station. Initiated in early 2003, these experiments tested the effects of cultivation practices and different liming materials on acid neutralizing efficacy in cool season (University Park) and warm season (Georgia) turfgrass stands. Data collection has ended, laboratory analysis has begun, and results will be published in scholarly journal(s). Progress toward achievement of Objective Two occurred this summer in several locations throughout Pennsylvania. Five independent experiments were conducted on established Penn A4 creeping bentgrass plots from April to November, 2004, to evaluate the effect of fertilization rates on canopy color, biomass production, organic matter accumulation, nutrient uptake, and fertilizer use efficiency. Two of the five were conducted on golf courses in the Philadelphia area. Data has been collected, analyzed, and will be compiled with future data in efforts to publish meaningful results in scholarly journal(s). No progress toward achievement of Objective Three occurred in 2004. Progress toward achievement of Objective Four has been slower than originally hoped. Though vigorous research of recent results has proved enlightening and useful, physical progress has yet to occur. Greenhouse experiments are being developed for Summer, 2005. Progress toward achievement of Objective Five has been steady, with soil samples collected in Spring 2003 being currently analyzed. A sizable and robust data set is essential for development of soil sampling protocol for turfgrass managers across the US. Further sampling has been scheduled for golf courses in the Mid Atlantic region and the Midwestern US.

Impacts
Considering the project is only 1.5 years old, there are few unequivocal conclusions that can be made at this time. Positive results from the soil acidity experiment (Objective 1) will inform turfgrass mangers how to ameliorate soil acidity most rapidly, improving nutrient use efficiency and maximizing turfgrass quality. Rapid amelioration of this complex by innovative technique will benefit over 10,000 US golf courses currently possessing acid soil complex. Results from current experimentation on soil pH and nutrient uptake by Penn A4 creeping bentgrass (Objective 3) are of great interest to golf course superintendents managing these turfgrasses. Once completed, nutrient management guidelines will enable managers to maximize turfgrass growth and vigor. Interest in nutrient management guidelines for Penn A4 continues to grow, as hundreds of golf courses nationwide convert old putting greens to A4. Soil sampling, analysis, interpretation, and recommendations for nutrient and soil chemistry management are critical aspects of maintaining resilient turfgrass systems. Yet, most mangers are unaware of soil sampling techniques. Results from Objective 5 of this project will produce a site-specific sampling protocol, easily utilized by turfgrass managers, and benefiting turfgrass nutrient efficiency greatly.

Publications

  • No publications reported this period


Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03

Outputs
Progress toward achievement of Objective One includes installation of two experiments; one at the Valentine Turfgrass Research Facility, and another at the Georgia Agricultural Research Station. Initiated in early 2003, these experiments are testing the effects of cultivation practices and different liming materials on acid neutralizing efficacy in cool season (University Park) and warm season (Georgia) turfgrass stands. Data collection has commenced and not deviated from the approach described in the original project. Progress toward achievement of Objective Two occurred this summer in University Park at the Valentine Research Facility. Four independent experiments were conducted on established Penn A4 creeping bentgrass plots from April to November, 2003, to evaluate the effect of fertilization rates on canopy color, biomass production, organic matter accumulation, nutrient uptake, and fertilizer use efficiency. Data has been collected, analyzed, and will be compiled with future data in efforts to publish meaningful results in scholarly journal(s). Further progress towards Objective 2 includes the arrangement for on-golf-course experimentation in the 2004 and 2005 seasons. These will be conducted on golf courses in Lititz and Harrisburg, PA. Progress toward achievement of Objective Three includes completion of an experiment this summer in the greenhouse facility at University Park, PA. The greenhouse study measured growth parameters of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L. A-4) following establishment on polyacrylamide-amended putting green root mixes. The upper 10 or 15 cm of root mixes were homogeneously-amended with 0, 1, or 2-kg polyacrylamide (per 93 sq. m) before sodding. Nutrient solution was judiciously applied each week and clippings and column leachate collected regularly. Leachate EC and K concentration significantly decreased by days after sodding (DAS), but did not interact with amendment rate or incorporation depth. Leachate NO3 concentration decreased with time but interacted with amendment rate. From 20 to 63 DAS, unamended column leachate NO3 decreased 76%. Leachate NO3 from columns amended with 2-kg polyacrylamide decreased only 55% over the same period. The NO3 levels in the polyacrylamide-amended column leachate were significantly greater than the unamended column leachate NO3 levels at 54 and 63 DAS. Clipping yield was unaffected by treatments. Polyacrylamide influence on CEC and bentgrass nutrient uptake were minimal. Progress toward achievement of Objective Four has been slower than originally hoped. Though vigorous research of recent results has proved enlightening and useful, physical progress has yet to occur. Greenhouse experiments are being developed for Summer, 2004. Progress toward achievement of Objective Five has been measurable but not as rapid as originally hoped. A State College golf course was thoroughly sampled this Spring, and those soil samples currently being analyzed. A sizable and robust data set is essential for development of soil sampling protocol for turfgrass managers across the US. Further sampling has been scheduled for golf courses in the Mid Atlantic region and the Midwestern US.

Impacts
Considering the project is less than 1 year old, there are very few unequivocal conclusions that can be made at this time. Positive results from the soil acidity experiment (Objective 1) will inform turfgrass mangers how to ameliorate soil acidity most rapidly, improving nutrient use efficiency and maximizing turfgrass quality. There are over 10,000 US golf courses possessing acid soil complex. Rapid amelioration of this complex by innovative technique will benefit many. Results from the putting green root mix amendment study (Objective 2) show polyacrylamide to have little effect on soil chemistry and nutrient retention properties. Fate of nutrients applied to the amended putting greens was actually less favorable than that from unamended columns. These are valuable conclusions, in that they help practitioners make effective decisions regarding amendments for soil. Results from current experimentation on soil pH and nutrient uptake by Penn A4 creeping bentgrass (Objective 3) are of great interest to golf course superintendents managing these turfgrasses. Once completed, nutrient management guidelines will enable managers to maximize turfgrass growth and vigor. Soil sampling, analysis, interpretation, and recommendations for nutrient and soil chemistry management are critical aspects of maintaining resilient turfgrass systems. Yet, most mangers are unaware of soil sampling techniques. Results from Objective 5 of this project will produce a site-specific sampling protocol, easily utilized by turfgrass managers, and benefiting turfgrass nutrient efficiency greatly.

Publications

  • Kaufmann, G., Schlossberg, M.J., Shankaran, K., Cook, P.J., and Watschke, T. 2003. Creeping bentgrass nutrient uptake on sand root zones amended with acrylamide/acrylate co-polymer. Agron. Abstracts. CD-ROM.