TurfNews

Volume 68 • No. 1
January - February 2006

T H E N E W S L ET T E R O F T H E O H I O T U R F G R A S S F O U N D AT I O N

39th Annual Ohio Turfgrass Conference & Show

Continuing the Tradition of Success!

WHAT’S INSIDE: OTF CONFERENCE & SHOW

See Pages 4 - 5
Sports Turf TIPS
See Pages 12 - 14
Golf Course TIPS
See Page 15
 Turf News
TurfNews distributes useful and timely advice, information and
research from Ohio’s most knowledgeable experts and professionals
to OTF members and those in the turfgrass industry.

Vol. 68 • No. 1 January - February 2006

TurfNews is produced by the Ohio Turfgrass Foundation

1100-H Brandywine Blvd, Zanesville, Ohio 43701-7303
1-888-OTF-3445 and is available to all members
www.OhioTurfgrass.org
T H E N E W S L ET T E R O F T H E O H I O T U R F G R A S S F O U N D AT I O N
Back issues of OTF TurfNews are available on our Web site at www.OhioTurfgrass.org.

This Issue Sponsored By:

Inside 06 Calendar OF Events

Message from the OTF President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Ohio State Golf Turf Spring Tee-Off
March 1 - 3, 2006
Holiday Inn on the Lane, Columbus, OH
Trade Show Wrap-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 - 5 888-683-3445

Green Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 - 8 OSU Sports Turf Short Course

March 21 - 22, 2006
Kottman Hall, OSU, Columbus, OH
Professional Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 614-292-7457

Ohio Turfgrass Week

Residential Lawn Care Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 - 11 May 26 - June 2, 2006
888-683-3445
Sports Turf Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 - 14
Northeast Ohio Lawn Care Seminar (OLCA)
June 15, 2006
Golf Course Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 OARDC, Wooster, OH
800-510-5296

Ohio Sod Producers Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 - 17 OSU/OTF Turfgrass Research Field Day

August 16, 2006
Hort Shorts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 - 19 OTF Turfgrass Research Facility, Columbus, OH
888-683-3445

New Growth & Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 - 22 Ohio Lawn Care Diagnostic Seminar (OLCA)
August 17, 2006
OTF Turfgrass Research Facility, Columbus, OH
Graduate Student Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
800-510-5296

OSU Golf Tee-Off & Registration Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 - 25 Ohio Turfgrass Conference & Show
December 5 - 7, 2006
Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, OH
Corporate Sponsor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 888-683-3445

2
MESSAGE FROM
THE PRESIDENT 2005
President
THE CHALLENGES THAT LAY AHEAD
If you missed the OTF Conference and Show
Recognized
shame on you! An incredible keynote address
by Olympic gold medalist, Rulon Gardner,
was followed by an awesome educational
conference and an exciting trade show. The Outgoing 2005 OTF President Chuck Darrah
conference offered something for everybody was honored for his contributions to Ohio’s
in the turf industry from golf, sports turf and
lawn care to general lawn and landscape turfgrass industry at this year’s Annual Awards
management and even organic landscape Banquet. Darrah was presented a plaque and
care. It was a great opportunity to get a boat-
load of pesticide certification credits. My hats personal gift by Vice President, Glen Pottenger,
off to the Education Committee! who thanked Chuck for his many years of

Oh, and don’t forget the great opportunity to see the newest products dedicated service to OTF.
and meet with suppliers on the tradeshow floor. Our new sports lounges
generated a lot of interest and I never had so much fun at the live auction!
Chuck Darrah has served on the OTF Board
Thanks to all the auction donors and especially to Dr. Street for giving up his
sideline passes for the Penn State and Michigan football games. The Trade of Directors since 1993. He has served on the
Show committee did an awesome job!
Program Development Committee since 1994,
Even as we work harder and harder to keep the OTF Conference and while also volunteering his time on nearly all
Show the premier turfgrass event in the country, there is something other OTF committees. He also serves as Trustee
missing ... YOU. Without you, our turfgrass professionals and our industry
suppliers, OTF cannot accomplish its mission of supporting turfgrass on the Ohio Turfgrass Research Trust Board of
research and scholarship. Our challenge for the future is to continue to Directors.
make the conference and show even better, while at the same time pursue
other opportunities and find new revenue sources to support our mission.
While we have relied in the past on support from within our industry, we Chuck holds a Ph.D. in agronomy from Cornell
will be seeking support from all of those who benefit from the turfgrasses
University. He was an Assistant Professor of
that surround us where we live, work and play. Yes, the golfing public,
homeowners, soccer moms, athletes, commercial property managers, etc. Agronomy and Extension Turf Specialist at
all have a stake in what we stand for ... BETTER TURF. As we go forward
the University of Maryland from 1976-79. He
with these initiatives, the Board will need your help.
was a Senior Research Scientist for Chem-
Sine this is my last President’s message, I want to express my gratitude to lawn Services Corp. and Director of Technical
all the Board members, past and present, who have made OTF such a great
organization. Their efforts support a very worthwhile cause, not to mention Service at Chemlawn from 1982-1990. Chuck
the livelihood of those of us in this great industry! It has been an honor has been a member of many Green Industry
to serve on the Board. We could not accomplish our goals without the
professional management, support and dedication we receive from Kevin trade associations and is Past President of
Thompson and the Offinger Management Company ... Thank you! And Ohio Lawn Care Association. He is currently
finally, I’m confident that incoming President, Glen Pottinger and the Board
the President of CLC LABS, a soil testing and
will keep OTF headed in the right direction. Good luck in your endeavors!
green industry consulting group. OTF thanks
Chuck for his dedication and hard work serving
Chuck Darrah
2005 President, OTF as President in 2005.

3
 2005
OTF CONFERENCE & SHOW
CONTINUING THE TRADITION OF SUCCESS!

4
Trade Show Wrap-Up

OTF SHOW
OTF Conference & Show - Your Professional Growth Stimulator!

That was the theme of the 2005 Ohio Turfgrass Conference & Show.
And nearly 2800 turfgrass professionals took advantage of the
opportunity to stimulate their professional growth by attending the Makes Impression
39th annual conference and show sponsored by OTF and OSU.
They were treated to over 90 hours of educational sessions and a
on State Senator
trade show featuring nearly 500 booths from more than 200 leading
turfgrass suppliers. OTF was pleased to welcome Ohio Senator

Larry Mumper at December’s Ohio Turfgrass

Keynote Speaker Rulon Gardner kicked off the conference with a
fun yet important message about overcoming obstacles in life.
The Olympic Gold Medalist Gardner spoke to an audience of more
than 800 before signing autographs for 2 hours in sponsor
Syngenta’s booth.
Conference & Show. Senator Mumper was joined
by green industry lobbyist Belinda Jones, Capitol
Consulting Group and members of the OTF and

The Ohio Turfgrass Research Trust (OTRT) raised more than $17,000 OLCA boards of directors.
at its annual auction and thanks to all the vendors and members
that donated time, products and generosity. The Live Auction
continues to raise funds to support the scholarships and turf- Upon spending time visiting the trade show
grass research funding for OTRT. Thank you! A special thanks to Joe
Senator Mumper commented on the impressive
Enciso and Glen Pottenger for helping organize and run the auction
and reverse raffle. size and scope of the trade show, and also with

At this year’s Annual Awards Banquet, OTF awarded $25,000 in
student scholarships and $137,000 in research grants to the OSU
Turfgrass Science program. OTF’s highest annual awards were
presented to Ronald Coyle, Superintendent, Northwood Hills Country
Club, who received a Professional Excellence Award. Al Muhle,
retired superintendent received the 2005 OTF Professional of the
Year for his commitment to Ohio’s turfgrass industry (please see
related article on page 9). Congratulations Ron, Al and all the 2005
student scholarship recipients.
Allied organizations such as the Ohio Lawn Care Association,
Ohio Sports Turf Managers Association and Ohio Sod Producers
Association held their annual meetings in conjunction with the
conference and show. The collaborative relationship among these
allied industry groups helps make Ohio’s turfgrass industry what it
is. Many thanks to the trade show committee, including; Joe Enciso,
Doug Gallant, Alan Mark, Glen Pottenger, Scott Robinson, George
Furrer, Tom Haslinger, Ken Renner, Randy Shaver, Todd Voss and
Gregg Schaner for its guidance and organization of this great event!
the professionalism of the turfgrass industry in
Ohio. This was important visibility for Ohio’s
turfgrass industry, especially considering that
Senator Mumper is the current chairman of the
Senate Agriculture Committee.
One of OTF’s many public relations goals is
to generate awareness with prominent state
legislators and to advocate on behalf of Ohio’s
turfgrass industry to the General Assembly.
Having influential legislators spend their time
visiting with OTF members and exhibitors is a
great start. OTF hopes to continue to generate

Plans are already underway for the 2006 Ohio Turfgrass Conference favorable visibility with our legislators and plans
& Show. Mark your calendar now for December 5-7 in Columbus!
to invite members of Ohio’s governing body to the
Please feel free to contact us with ideas or suggestions on how 2006 Conference & Show.
we can continue to make this the biggest and best turfgrass
event in the country. You can reach OTF at 888-683-3445 or
info@OhioTurfgrass.org.

5
GREEN
INDUSTRY

NEWS
2005 Scholarships OTF Awards, Grants & Scholarships Committee chair Glen Pottenger
presented an additional $10,000 in scholarships to four students

Presented
Awarding scholarships to turfgrass students at Ohio schools
and universities is an important function of the Ohio Turfgrass
Foundation. OTF has awarded more than $425,000 in student
scholarships since 1964.
OTF presented scholarships to the following turfgrass students
from around Ohio, including the annual Don Sweda and George
Biddulph Memorial Scholarships.
• Weston Appelfeller, OSU
• Matthew Canterbury, Clark State Community College
• Brandon Franz, OSU/ATI
• John Gruneisen, OSU
• Russell Horn, OSU
• Craig Lung, Cincinnati State College
• Brian McGuire, Columbus State Community College
• Galen Miller, Clark State Community College
• Charles Spreng, OSU/ATI
OTF Memorial Scholarships were presented to exceptional
students deserving special recognition for their outstanding
accomplishments in school, work and the community. The
2005 recipients were:
• John Koenig, OSU – George Biddulph Memorial Scholarship
• Ryan Beeson, OSU – Don Sweda Memorial Scholarship
who received the 2005 Ronald D. Baker Memorial Scholarships.
The Ronald D Baker Memorial Scholarship of the Dayton Foundation
was established in 1993 in honor of Ronald D. Baker, a past chairman
of Leisure Lawn, Inc., who believed in the necessity of continued
educational opportunities for all individuals. The Fund provides
scholarships to students at The Ohio State University pursuing
a degree in Turfgrass Management. In 2001, OTRT was granted
the privilege of awarding these scholarships on behalf of the
Baker family.
Congratulations to the following four students for receiving
the 2005 R.D. Baker Memorial Scholarships:
• Ian Gallagher, OSU • Keith Meikle, OSU/ATI
• Matt Martin, OSU/ATI • Zachary Wike, OSU/ATI
A new scholarship awarded at this year’s conference and
show was the Founders Club Scholarship. The Founders Club
Scholarship, presented by the Ohio Turfgrass Research Trust,
was presented to Andrew Shaul, OSU, during the Founders Club
reception. Congratulations Andrew for receiving the first-ever
Founders Club Scholarship!
The Ohio Turfgrass Foundation congratulates all 2005 Scholarship
recipients and looks forward to their continued contributions
to Ohio’s turfgrass industry. For information regarding 2006
scholarships contact the OTF office at 888-683-3445, or visit the
OTF Web site at www.OhioTurfgrass.org.

2005 OTF SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

6
Get Ready for Ohio Turfgrass
Week May 26 - June 2
The OTF Publicity Committee is making plans for the inaugural
Ohio Turfgrass Week to be held May 26 - June 2, 2006. Turfgrass
Week will be held every year beginning the Friday of Memorial Day
weekend and continuing through the following Thursday.
This weeklong event will be launched with 2 primary goals in mind:
1. To generate public awareness for the turfgrass industry in Ohio.
2. To create new funding sources for turfgrass research and
education.
OTF Presents Check at
Annual Awards Banquet
Dr. Bobby Moser, Dean, College of Food, Agriculture and Environ-
mental Sciences, The Ohio State University, accepted OTF’s 2005
check in the amount of $162,128 from OTF President Chuck
Darrah. The check represents $137,128 in research grants and
financial support for the operations of the OTF Research &
Education Facility, and $25,000 in student scholarships.
OTF has donated more than $3.9 million to turfgrass research and
over $425,000 in scholarships since 1964.

Cutbacks in state government spending for research at the Ohio

Agricultural Research & Development Center (OARDC) in Wooster,
and Ohio State University Extension (OSU-E), have significantly
affected research and extension services available for Ohio’s
turfgrass industry. These budgetary cutbacks could also have a
negative impact on golf courses, athletic fields, parks, grounds,
cemeteries, home lawns – and other maintained green spaces.

Ohio Turfgrass week plans to educate the general public on the

importance and positive benefits of professionally managed turf-
grass areas. Messages will be targeted to golfers, homeowners,
coaches, parents, legislators and more. OTF is currently seeking
a Legislative Proclamation officially naming “Ohio Turfgrass Week.”

Beginning May 26, Ohio’s golf courses will be asked to support

OTF in generating new turfgrass funding sources. Public golf
courses will be asked to donate a portion of every round of golf
played during the week – collected voluntarily by golfers when
paying greens fees.

Private courses will be asked to collect voluntary contributions from

members when paying membership dues.
Future funding sources may include:
1. Lawn care operators donating a percentage of each lawn
serviced.
2. A percentage of rolls/yards sold by sod growers.
3. Donations at “Big Box” stores from homeowners.
4. Sporting events (youth to professional venues).
5. And more!
FOR THE LATEST RESEARCH AND INFORMATION
FOR OHIO’S TURF AND LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONALS
VISIT THESE IMPORTANT WEB SITES:
Golf Course Turf Management
Superintendent’s Korner • http://hcs.osu.edu/karl
Sports Turf Management
OSU Sports Turf Program • http://hcs.osu.edu/sportsturf

Everyone who uses and enjoys managed turfgrass space in Ohio
can help make a difference. OTF encourages all members to take
part in Ohio Turfgrass Week and support the future of turfgrass
research in Ohio!
Lawn, Grounds & Landscape
Buckeye Yard & Garden Line • www.hcs.ohio-state.edu/bygl
These sites may also be accessed from the
OTF Web site at www.OhioTurfgrass.org.

7
GREEN
INDUSTRY

NEWS
Live Auction Generates More 2005 AUCTION DONORS
Alvis Materials • Anderson Buckeye • Applied Biochemists •

than $17,000
The Live Auction held at the 2005 Ohio Turfgrass Conference & Show
raised more than $17,000 for turfgrass research and scholarships.
The funds generated by the auction support the Ohio Turfgrass
Research Trust (OTRT), the charitable fund-raising arm of OTF.
The auction was held in the convention center following the close
of the trade show on Wednesday, December 7. Several hundred
people gathered to view and bid on the many great items donated
by OTF members and exhibitors.
Central Farm & Garden • Century Equipment • Cincinnati Reds
• CLC LABS • Dakota, Inc. • Diversified Waterscapes, Inc. •
Double Eagle Club • Eagle One Golf Products • Fairmont
Minerals • Flowtronex • Geo. E. Fern • Green Velvet Sod Farms
• Grigg Brothers • Hurdzan/Fry G. C. Design • Jacklin Seed/JR
Simplot • Lavy Enterprises • Turf Grass, Inc. • LawnGrips Footwear
• LESCO, Inc. • Liquid Fence Co. • Moraine Country Club • Oglebay
Norton • Offinger Management Co. • Ohio Turfgrass Foundation
• OSU, Dept. of Hort. & Crop Science • Strategic Turf • Syngenta
Professional Products • The Motz Group • Ty-Crop Manufacturing
Ltd. • Westfield Golf Club • Xenia Power Equipment

In addition to the Live Auction was the Reverse Raffle. OTRT and
OTF volunteers sold raffle tickets at $20 each throughout the first
2 days of the show. Winners were selected (or not selected, since it
was a reverse raffle) to receive cash prizes, along with a Grand Prize
winner of $1000, which went to Ted Pasko Jr. Congratulations Ted!

Several great items were sold at bargain prices at the auction,

including autographed sports memorabilia, rounds of golf at
prominent golf courses around the state, a night with the Cin-
cinnati Reds Grounds Crew, a mini-gator and turf equipment and
supplies. The opportunity to watch OSU play Penn State and
Michigan next year from the sidelines generated more than $1600
for each game!

The goal is to continue to grow the auction so that more than

$20,000 is raised by the 2006 auction committee, which will be
working hard throughout the year soliciting donations from OTF’s
members and suppliers.

The auction is organized and managed by the OTF Auction

Committee and chaired by Joe Enciso, Century Equipment. On
behalf of the Ohio Turfgrass Foundation and the Ohio Turfgrass
Research Trust, we would like to thank everyone who participated,
and especially the following donors to this year’s auction. They
proved that raising funds for turfgrass research can be fun!

8
 2005 Professional Excellence Award
RON COYLE
OTF PAST PRESIDENT HANK CHAFIN (LEFT) PRESENTS PLAQUE TO
OLD FRIEND RON COYLE.
OTF acknowledged Ron Coyle’s 43 years of dedication to the green
industry by presenting him with the 2005 Professional Excellence
Award. Coyle began his career at Troy Country Club in 1963 as a
grounds maintenance worker and this is where he met his role model
Danny H. Quast, Superintendent of Troy Country Club.
Coyle credits Quast with giving him a chance and believing in him.
Quast mentored Coyle, taking him to Purdue University turf seminars,
field days, meetings to listen to speakers and GCSAA National
Conference and Educational programs. Before leaving Troy Country
Club, Quast helped Coyle get the Superintendent position, which
he held for 5 years. Again with the help of Quast, Coyle landed
the Superintendent position at Northwood Hills, where he is still
Superintendent today.
Coyle has held his current position at Northwood Hills for 43 years.
Located in Springfield, Ohio Northwood Country Club spans one
hundred-thirty acres and consists of golf course, club house, pro
shop, tennis courts, small greens, large bentgrass tees, rye-
grass fairways with sandtraps and lakes coming in to play. His
management duties range from supervising as many as seventeen
employees to overseeing, maintaining and managing the eighteen-
hole golf course and the golf course grounds.
Coyle thought that receiving the Miami Valley Golf Course Super-
intendent’s Man-of-the-Year Award in 2003 was the highlight of his
career, until he received OTF’s Professional Excellence Award. “I
can’t tell everyone what this means to me.” He was “surprised,
flattered, shocked, speechless and very, very nervous.” He wants to
thank the OTF Board of Directors and all his peers for the award.
To newcomers to the industry, Coyle has three pieces of advice;
“First education, Ohio State has the best programs in the country,
go to their field days and find out what’s best and what’s not.
Second, OTF and GCSAA have educational programs going on all
the time. Third, get all the experience you can in whatever field
you’re in, it will help you down the road later.”
2005 Professional of the Year Award
AL MUHLE
AL MUHLE (LEFT) RECEIVES PLAQUE FROM 2003 PROFESSIONAL
EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENT JIM HIPPELY.
OTF’s 2005 Professional of the Year award was presented to Al
Muhle by his friend Jim Hippely. Muhle came to the ceremony thinking
that Hippely was receiving the award, so when Hippely presented him
with the award, he was “flabberghasted.” Being a part of OTF from
the beginning, Muhle sees them as being “equal to the national
association, because they are more accessible to the area, their
speakers are area specific and it is an excellent education assembly
to go to.” Retired for several years now, Muhle was surprised to
receive the award. However, his colleagues and friends were
honored to recognize his 52 years of hard work in the industry.
Muhle is one of those individuals who knows the “ins and outs” of
the industry. He began his career in the green industry in 1954 at
Mayfield Country Club as a part of the grounds crew and then,
became an Assistant Superintendent. It was at Mayfield CC where he
met his role model, Howard Fannin and his close friend Dan Giesler,
who learned from one another by exchanging ideas. “It is important
to make close friends with your peers and coworkers, because the
exchange of ideas is important in your career and your personal life.”
To this day, Muhle and Giesler keep in contact.
In 1963, he landed his first superintendent’s position at Hawthorne
Valley Country Club and stayed there for 13 years. From Hawthorne,
he became Superintendent at The Country Club and held this position
for 9 years. Switching directions from Superintendent to Salesman,
Muhle went to work for Lesco, Inc. selling golf course supplies. After
selling supplies for 13 years, Muhle went back to being a Super-
intendent at Hemlock Spring Golf Course, where he finished out
his career.
This was not Muhle’s first time being distinguished for his dedication
to the green industry. He was awarded the Professional Excellence
Award in 1981 for his innovation of triplex lightweight mowing.
With all this experience and recognition, Muhle wants to share
his experience with newcomers to the industry with these words
of advice, “Do not work twenty-four hours a day. Enjoy your life
and it’s a good life.” In addition to this advice, Muhle adds the
advice that his mentor once gave him, “Don’t make a habit out
of being in the club house, but stay on the course where your job
needs you.”
9
 RESIDENTIAL
LAWN CARE
TIPS
Lawn Damage in 05 & Recommendations For 06
David Shetlar, Department of Entomology, The Ohio State University
You might wonder why an entomologist would be writing about lawn
damage in Ohio and what to do about it, but the fact is most of the
damage and death experienced in Ohio’s lawns in 2005 was NOT
caused by drought, but by insects AND drought working together!
The grasses we commonly use in our lawns (e.g., Kentucky blue-
grass, perennial ryegrass and tall and fine fescues), are pretty well
equipped to handle moderate periods of drought. When heat and
drought occur, these plants go into a state of dormancy that helps
them maintain precious cell water, especially in major roots and the
crowns. When regular moisture and moderating temperatures are
restored, these plant parts generate new stems, leaves and roots.
Unfortunately, these common species of grasses are not equal in
their ability to withstand prolonged periods of drought and heat.
In general (remember that there is considerable variation among
cultivars of each turf species!), tall fescue and creeping red fescue
are some of the grasses most tolerant of heat and drought conditions.
Surprising to many, Kentucky bluegrass is quite capable of surviving
prolonged drought periods and since it has rhizomatous growth, it
recovers and fills in better than perennial ryegrass. Perennial ryegrass
is only moderately tolerant to drought and we have seen significant
plant death in summers of prolonged drought!
In 2005, many Kentucky bluegrass lawns were killed, not by the
drought, but by the combination of drought and billbug feeding. Hairy
chinch bugs also contributed to the carnage in many neighborhoods.
Billbugs severely damage Kentucky bluegrass by knocking out the
crowns in June. During drought seasons, newly formed rhizomes and
shoots can not establish supporting root systems, so a single billbug
larva can kill a patch of Kentucky bluegrass that is three to five inches
in diameter. Perennial ryegrass and tall fescue with endophytes are
quite resistant to billbugs and this is why many lawns ended the
season with clumps of these grasses scattered across the lawn of
dead Kentucky bluegrass.
10
Long Term Strategies
Many home owners and lawn managers did realized that damaged
lawns were not going to recover until it was too late to undergo a fall
seeding. Some lawns were given late seedings and depending on the
grasses used and our winter conditions, these lawns may or may not
recover next spring. In any case, damaged lawns need to be carefully
inspected in the spring to determine the extent of reseeding or re-
sodding that will be needed.
Entomologically, selecting grass species for restoration or re-
establishment of a lawn is not a simple process. If Kentucky blue-
grass is the desired species, there ARE cultivars that are known to
be quite resistant to billbug attack. Most of these are fine textured
cultivars (e.g., Eagleton, Eclipse, Washington, Wabash, America,
Adelphi, Unique, and Fylking). The coarser selections (e.g., Merion,
Baron, Broadway, Parade, Cheri, Sydsport and Columbia) are highly
susceptible. Unfortunately, we have found that much Kentucky
bluegrass sod being sold in Ohio has a high amount of Merion and
Baron in their blends! For quick cover, perennial ryegrass is a good
choice and newer cultivars have green color dark enough to blend in
well with Kentucky bluegrass. However, not all perennial ryegrass
seed has endophyte! In general, the fresher the seed and storage in
cool conditions will conserve endophytes. Be sure to ask your seed
supplier if they can provide seed with high to moderate endophyte.
Turf-type tall fescues seem more resistant to billbug damage, with
or without endophyte. However, many home owners don’t like the
coarser look of tall fescue though high seeding rates and careful
selection of fine-textured cultivars can greatly reduce this look.
Though not thoroughly investigated, another season strategy would
be to keep irrigating lawns that are susceptible to billbug damage
through June to encourage establishment of the new tillers and
rhizomes. In our research billbug “ranch,” twice a week irrigations
gets our highly susceptible Kentucky bluegrass cultivars though bill-
bug infestations that normally kill lawns during periods of drought!
Other Management Strategies
Because of the severe billbug damage of 2005, many lawn care
operators have asked what insecticide program I would recommend
to ensure elimination of billbugs in 2006. Fortunately, we now have
a good data base on what works and what does not! In short,
imidacloprid (= Merit) and clothianidin (= Arena) are the best
performing neonicotinoids available. Applications of imidacloprid
at 0.4 lb.ai/A any time in May and at the 0.3 lb.ai/A in the first
week of June have provided excellent control of billbugs as well as
chinch bugs and the new crop of white grubs that arrive in July.
Clothianidin has given us the same results at rates between 0.25 and
0.3 lb.ai/A. The difference between clothianidin and imidacloprid
is that clothianidin also seems to knock out any actively feeding
caterpillars (e.g., sod webworms and black cutworms) for two to
three weeks after its application.
Halofenozide (MACH2) has not performed well for billbug control
except when it is applied as an early preventive – first two weeks of
May. When the billbug larvae have started feeding down grass stems
in late May and early June, halofenozide has produced poor control.
Summary
Get out and evaluate lawns early to determine the extent of damage
remaining from 2005 and get busy repairing the damage by re-
establishing the turf, hopefully with grass cultivars or species that are
resistant to billbug attack. If billbugs (or chinch bugs) are suspected,
you can eliminate them for the season by moving your grub control
applications of imidacloprid or clothianidin into May.

We have looked at using a pyrethroid as Durban and diazinon were

once used (as adulticides in early May), and products containing
bifenthrin, deltamethrin and lambda-cyhalothrin have produced
satisfactory results. These would have to be applied in the first two
weeks of May or when the soil temperature at one inch reaches
68 ˚ F. BILLBUG

BILLBUG DAMAGE

11
 SPORTS
TURF
TIPS
Microbial Characteristics of Turfgrass Soils
Pamela Sherratt & John Street, The Ohio State University
Grasses have a significant amount of rhizosphere due to their
fibrous and extensive root systems. Within this rhizosphere there
are a multitude of soil organisms. Although understanding of the
organisms, processes and dynamics is increasing, there has been
little discovered that would enable turf managers to manage the
rootzone for improved turf health. Much of our focus to date has
been on the PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL properties of turf soils. In
contrast, there has been virtually no published research on the
ECOLOGY of turf rootzones. Soil ecology describes the study of the
distribution, abundance & interaction of organisms. The organisms
consist of soil fauna (e.g. earthworms, beetles, ants, arthropods) and
soil microbes (e.g. fungi, actinomycetes, bacteria).
Microbes are extremely adaptable and can live in most soils. They
can tolerate water stress, freezing & thawing, anaerobic conditions,
and some extremes in Ph. Table 1 describes the relative components
in a turfgrass soil, their respective sizes, and their volume (biomass).
As you can see, bacteria, while very small, constitute as much as 1-2
tons biomass per hectare of soil. This is tantamount to 10 (1 billion)
9
bacteria per gram of soil – that’s a lot of bacteria!
ADVANTAGES OF SOIL MICROBES
An active microbial population performs many beneficial activities in
a turf soil, including:
1. Organic matter decomposition
Microbes are central to the decomposition of organic matter (OM).
However, in a sand system it is widely accepted within the turf-
grass community that OM accumulation must be controlled by
man. OM decomposition by microbial methods is not sufficient to
balance out OM accumulation. This is probably because there
are no/very few earthworms and other soil fauna that are first
12
in the succession of organisms to break down OM (Figure 1).
So while fungi, actinomycetes and bacteria are active in OM
decomposition, the larger soil fauna that are vital to the initial
processes are largely absent.
2. Soil aggregation
Fungi in particular are beneficial as they grow through and around
soil particles, creating macro-aggregates. Aggregation increases
the pore space, thereby improving drainage and turf root growth.
3. Nutrient availability and recycling
Nitrifying bacteria break down organic nitrogen-containing
compounds to produce inorganic compounds (nitrate) that can be
taken up by turf plants. This is a crucial step in the nitrogen cycle.
4. Pathogen suppression
TWO MYTHS – BUSTED!
Non-target effects of pesticides?
There is some thought that the use of synthetic fertilizers and
pesticides reduces or eliminates the microbial community by
altering the pH or causing direct/indirect toxicity to organisms.
Except for the presence of inert ingredients in some emulsifiable
concentrate formulations that have caused toxicity, preliminary
results from one ongoing study indicates that pesticides do not
adversely affect most non-target microorganisms. Likewise, relative-
ly high pesticide applications have not been shown to unfavorably
affect soil microorganisms.
Inert sand rootzones?
It was traditionally perceived that since sand-based rootzones were
synthetically prepared, they supported a less numerous and diverse
microbial population than comparative native soils. Actually, sand-
based rootzones are not sterile, but in fact reach levels of native soil
in a very short period of time.
BACTERIA & BLACK LAYER
“Black layer” is a turfgrass phenomenon that describes the anaerobic
(lacking on oxygen) layer that forms near the surface of a rootzone
(Figure 2). Black layer forms in a rootzone system for two reasons (1)
burying the OM layer with successive topdressing and (2) formation
of a zone rich in metal sulphide under anaerobic conditions. Anaerobic
conditions can occur in rootzones for several reasons: migration of
colloidal particles, salt deposition, natural occurring layers (OM) and
surface compaction.
Whatever the initial cause of black layer, its evolution is the same.
Once the layer become anaerobic, bacteria that can use alternatives
to oxygen come into their own. The first groups of bacteria use
nitrate (denitrification process), then other oxidized constituents (Mn,
Fe, S). In consequence, the rootzone becomes “chemically reduced”
not just anaerobic. The “redox potential” is a measure of the severity
of reducing conditions. Reducing conditions in turfgrass systems
have important implications. Nitrate availability falls and levels of
soluble manganese and iron rise because the reduced forms are
more soluble than the oxidized forms. Manganese may become toxic.
Hydrogen sulphide is toxic to roots but it usually reacts with ferrous
iron (Fe2+) or iron oxides to produce black ferrous suphide (FeS).
This black precipitate causes the black layer phenomenon in turf-
grass rootzones. Since oxygen is necessary for root respiration, roots
cannot survive in black layer soils and as a general rule live roots
will only be found in soil above the black layer. If prompt action is
not taken to get oxygen into the soil, remove the toxic gases and
stimulate healthy root growth, the overlying turf may be lost in a
short period of time. Control of back layer has typically included an
aggressive cultivation/aeration program.
MICROBIAL ROOTZONE SUPPLEMENTS
“Biostimulants” have been on the turfgrass market for a decade or
more. Biostimulant products that contain live biological organisms
or spores of microorganisms are purported to stimulate plants,
cure anaerobic soil conditions, degrade thatch, and, in some cases,
prevent diseases. Very often the claims are not supported by
research and the products are sometimes mixed with nutrients or
other products that may also stimulate plant growth. However,
there have been several positive research findings with some of
the biostimulant products. For example, Azospirillum spp. is a
plant growth promoting rhizobacterium that research has shown
colonizes the roots of turfgrasses and promotes the root develop-
ment of cool-season grasses. Products that contain the spores of
mycorrhiza have also been shown to aid turfgrass establishment and
most recently have been studied as a biocontrol agent for annual
bluegrass (Poa annua) control in fine turf. In conclusion, soil in-
oculums and additives may alter soil microbiology in the short term
(on newly established turf areas) but their use on established turf-
grass soils is questionable.
The advantages of a diverse and strong microbiological community
within a rootzone have been proven without question. The role of
microbial products added to that community is not yet understood.
Some may be useful, others may not. With very little published data
for turf managers to explore it is hard to make informed decisions.
CONCLUSIONS
There is still a lot to understand about the role of microorganisms in
a turfgrass rootzone. Some have called the traditional method of turf
management the “iceberg” approach, whereby so much emphasis
is placed on the playing surface that what lies underneath is still a
mystery. Huge advancements have been made in soil physics and
chemistry but the ecology of soils is a relatively new study area in
turfgrass science.
Research to date has shown that microbial communities do not
appear to be adversely impacted by the type of soil profile, as long
as there is an established turfgrass rhizosphere for the microbial
community to reside. Pesticides usage also does not appear to have
an unfavorable affect on microbial populations. Problems that are
related to OM decomposition may not be solved by continued
investigation into microbial communities if the larger soil fauna
(earthworms and arthropods) are not included.
The commercial arena has launched microbial biostimulant products
into a turfgrass market that knows very little about what they do or
how economically useful they are. It will be a while before research
catches up. In the meantime, the basics of sound turf management
should not be forgotten: air circulation, sunlight, drainage, fertility,
cultivation, and traffic control. A healthy turf rhizosphere will host a
healthy microbial community.
Continued on page 14
13
 Continued from page 13

TABLE 1: SOIL COMPONENTS IN A TYPICAL TURFGRASS SYSTEM

Organism Size (µm*) Biomass (tons ha-1)**

Soil particles Stones 2000

Coarse sand 200-2000 (Macropores 80-5000 µm)
Silt 2-50 (Mesopores 30-80 µm)
Clay 0.2 (Micropores 5-30 µm)

Plant material Root hairs 7-15 Up to 90, but generally

Fine roots 50-1000 about 20
Roots 1000

Viruses 0.05-0.2 Negligible

THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY ANNOUNCES
THE 10TH ANNUAL SPORTS
Bacteria 0.5-1.0 1-2

Actinomycetes 1.0-1.5 0-2

Fungi 0.3-10.0 2-5

TURF SHORT COURSE
March 21 & 22, 2006
Protozoa 10-80 0-0.5
Kottman Hall Auditorium • The Ohio State University
Nematodes 500-2000 0-0.2

Earthworms 2-5000 0-2.5

Designed for all sports turf managers,
*1µm = 1,000th of 1mm/0.04 inch lawn care personnel, and grounds people
** Hectare (ha-1) equals 2.471 acres who care for turf with multiple functions.

Registration $180 includes all refreshments,

meals, & educational materials.

OSU’s Athletic Director, Gene Smith

OSU Alum & NFL punter, BJ Sander
Cleveland Browns, Chris Powell
CEO of The Motz Group, Joe Motz
Toledo Mudhens, Jake Tyler
OSU Varsity Athletics, Brian Gimbel
CLC LABS, Dr. Chuck Darrah
FIGURE 1: CONCEPTUAL MODEL OF DECOMPOSITION Faculty & staff from The Ohio State University

Topics include: First-hand experiences from

field managers, pesticide updates, field management
techniques, & new technology in sports turf.

ODA, OPRA and STMA CEU’s offered.

To register, call (614) 292-8571 or

online: www.peopleware.net/2753

For course information call

Pamela Sherratt (614) 292-7457.

FIGURE 2: BLACK LAYER – AN ANAEROBIC (LACKING IN OXYGEN) LAYER THAT

CAN CAUSE MAJOR PROBLEMS IN TURF MANAGEMENT.

14
GOLF
COURSE
TIPS
Yellow Patch has been Active this Winter
Joseph Rimelspach, Department of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University

The combination of snowmelt along with cool wet weather has

resulted in the potential for cool weather diseases appearing on
annual bluegrass/creeping bentgrass greens. We received samples
and pictures from around Ohio that show Yellow Patch symptoms.
Symptoms of Yellow Patch (pathogen: Rhizoctonia cerealis) – also
known as cool-weather brown patch, cool temperature brown patch
and winter brown patch – appear as yellow or rusty circular rings or
partial arcs with the center of the ring appearing green.

In a few cases, you may also have pink snow mold or even red thread in
association with this disease. Usually this disease is of minor concern,
however if the rings become more severe and sunken a fungicide NOTE ON GREENS WITH A MIXED STRAND OF BENTGRASS AND ANNUAL BLUE-
GRASS, YELLOW PATCH SYMPTOMS MAY BE VARIABLE.
application maybe needed.

On greens that are a mix of annual bluegrass and creeping bent-

grass you may see symptoms that resemble summer patch, which
has caused some confusion. However, this is not summer patch. In
addition, some may think its anthracnose, again the likelihood is
very low, especially if you do not have a history of this disease. If you
are not sure and for a piece of mind, it is best to submit a sample
and have it diagnosed.

If no snow is present, this might be a good time to get out and look
at your greens. For those that treated for snow mold to see how your
control measures are holding up. If anything is happening, let me
CIRCULAR SYMPTOM PATTERNS OF YELLOW PATCH IN EARLY JANUARY 2006
know (rimelspach.1@osu.edu). FROM EASTERN OHIO.

15
 OSPA
OHIO SOD
PRODUCERS
TPI President Provides 2006 Industry Perspective
East Dundee, IL – December 2005
Warren Bell, President of Turfgrass Producers International (TPI),
believes turfgrass sod producers and the Green Industry as a whole
may have a few challenges as well as a few opportunities as they
look ahead to the coming year. In his annual state of the industry
report, Bell provided his perspective on the industry and outlook
for 2006.
“Any attempt to forecast what a coming year may have in store for
turfgrass producers and the Green Industry is always a challenge and
2006 certainly isn’t an exception. A projected slowdown in housing
starts, the cost and availability of labor, increasing insurance and
health care costs and many other economic indicators can leave you
scratching your head. Add to that the numerous forecasts and pre-
dictions of respected economists and industry professionals and you
could become a bit overwhelmed. The key in projecting what the
future may offer requires that you take into account all the inform-
ation that’s available; keep it in proper perspective, and evaluate the
information so you can plan effectively based on what might or might
not unfold,” emphasizes Bell.
Bell said the White House projected the U.S. economy would expand
3.4 percent in 2006 and would record a growth rate of 3.5 percent
for 2005. He added, “Reuters news service commented that despite
16
the vibrant growth, many Americans have been anxious about rising
oil prices, a reality that certainly impacted the agriculture industry
and business and commerce nationwide in recent months.”
According to Bell, another economic equation that has to be taken
into account is new home construction. David Seiders, Chief
Economist for The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is
quoted as saying, “We see a flattening of housing starts and the
beginning of a cooling process.” Seiders’ forecast predicts housing
construction would drop by 4.8 percent to around 1.92 million starts
in 2006.
Other considerations Bell referred to include a mixed labor market,
unpredictable energy prices and changing interest rates. While all of
these factors certainly have to be taken into consideration to project
what 2006 might have to offer, Bell notes there are some positive
factors worth mulling over that create a more promising picture.
For example, a recent survey conducted by Project EverGreen at the
November ’05 Green Industry Expo provided some pleasing results.
The survey, conducted by Market Intellect revealed, “The nation as
a whole thinks strongly of the Green Industry, despite what media
reports imply,” according to Gene Brown, CEO of Market Intellect.
Survey recipients were asked if they agreed or disagreed with
several statements; for the most part their responses were extremely
positive. Over eighty percent agreed that most lawn care companies
care about the environment and agreed that maintenance of public
parks and sports fields is good for the environment. Ninety-nine
percent of those surveyed agreed that landscaping adds value to a
home’s worth and a well-maintained landscaped yard increases
curb appeal and property value.
On the issue of safety, ninety-seven percent agreed that a well-
maintained lawn provides a safe, cushioned play surface for children.
“Thanks to the efforts of organizations like Responsible Industry
for a Sound Environment (RISE); The Professional Landcare Network
(PLANET); Project EverGreen; Turfgrass Producers International
(TPI) and numerous trade and consumer publications, there is a
collective effort to address sensitive issues intelligently and with
valid research,” advised Bell. “The benefits of turfgrass and the
positive environmental impact of green space is a message that
needs to be communicated to consumers, industry professionals,
educators and legislatures.”
“In looking ahead to 2006, one has to consider recent events that
may influence decision makers in the coming year as well,” added
Bell. For example, Tom Delaney, PLANET’s director of government
affairs, summarized the importance of their “Legislative Day on
the Hill” which provided Green Industry service providers, suppliers,
educators and state association executives from across the United
Sates and Canada the opportunity to spend a day with congressional
representatives and their staff members to discuss key issues
affecting the green industry.
“This was an opportunity for our members to see how Congress
works and to lobby their elected officials on issues facing our
industry,” Delaney added. “This is also how legislators become
aware of the issues facing small businesses as well as larger
corporations in the Green Industry.”
In late September 2005, representatives of the turfgrass industry had
a face-to-face meeting with Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns
to discuss the turfgrass industry and the National Turfgrass Research
Initiative (NTRI). During the course of that meeting the Secretary was
provided with current information conveying the breadth and scope
of the turfgrass industry and its importance to the U.S. economy;
restrictions and/or regulations that challenge the turfgrass industry;
and the need for government support in the area of basic turfgrass
research to address issues facing the industry.
Bell points out that the coming year will see TPI continuing to build on
its developing relationship with extension specialists, county agents,
university researchers, scientists, educators and the general public.
“There’s no denying that the global natural disasters of 2005
impacted the lives of families worldwide and recent natural disasters
in the U.S. impacted our nation’s economy and the lives of thousands
of families in ways that are far too numerous to mention. What
2006 has in store for us in terms of weather is anybody’s guess.
As for those opportunities to be realized in the coming year, a great
deal depends on how well we plan; our ability to anticipate the
possibilities; how well we adapt to change and our readiness to
expect the unexpected.”
“The turfgrass industry contributes over $40 billion dollars to the
U.S. economy. It is estimated the overall Green Industry and related
businesses contribute $147 billion. When you consider the economic
value, the environmental significance and the overall scope of the
industry, it is apparent that to grow our business we, as an industry,
need to continue to send a positive message on the benefits of turf-
grass and green spaces.”
“If we commit ourselves to address these challenges through
effective communication, we can soften the blow of any less than
promising economic forecast and most certainly reap the rewards
that come with positive economic growth,” said Bell.
Bell is the co-owner of Biograss Sod Farm located in Sandy, UT. He is
TPI’s 35th president. Turfgrass Producers International is a 38-year-
old, independent, not-for-profit association representing more than
1,100 members from over 40 countries comprised of turfgrass sod
and seed producers, equipment manufacturers, suppliers, educators
and professionals involved in the Green Industry.
17
 HORT
SHORTS
COLUMN
Lets Talk About Dogwoods
Jim Chatfield, The Ohio State University Extension
It’s wintertime, but days are getting longer, so lets take a look at a
group of wonderful flowering trees that will greet us next spring and
that I talked about at the Ohio Turfgrass Foundation program this past
December. Lets talk dogwoods.
A wonderful new book I picked up late last year is simply titled
Dogwoods, by Paul Capiello and Don Shadow (Timber Press). Both
Paul and Don are knowledgeable and wonderful plantsmen, Paul
recently from Bernheim Arboretum near Louisville, Kentucky and
now of Yew Dell Gardens in Crestwood Kentucky and Don of Shadow
Nursery in Winchester, Tennessee. Both have long love affairs with
dogwoods, which are trees, shrubs and even herbaceous plants in
the genus Cornus.
In the book’s introduction, Paul describes the history of the genus
Cornus, with us for many many milennia, tens of millions of years
all the way back to the time of the dinosaurs. He relates that in
human historical times, dogwoods, in the form of the cornelian-
cherry dogwood Cornus mas were said, presumably by Homer, to
have “provided the wood used by Odysseus and his men to build the
Trojan horse and finally wrestle victory from the hands of defeat.”
Herbal remedies, occasional foodstuffs such as Cornus kousa and
Cornus mas juices and more modernly early 20th century golf clubs
made from Cornus florida were other dogwood uses, but certainly
their use as ornamentals is where dogwoods truly shine.
Lets take a look at a few profiles of dogwoods that I wrote about
in the “Landscape Plants for Ohio” publication of the Ohio Nursery
and Landscape (this 40 page booklet of descriptions and color
pictures is available from ONLA for $5 through their Web site
BuckeyeGardening.com, or at discounted prices for ONLA members).
18
Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida)
Highly popular small (15-20 foot) tree for its many ornamental
features. Multi-season appeal with spectacular white bracts that
emerge before leaves are out, attractive dark green leaves, purple-
red fall color, shiny red fruits and graceful horizontal growth habit.
Numerous excellent cultivars including Cherokee Chief with pink
flowers and Cherokee Brave with good powdery mildew resistance.
Plant in partial shade and mulch to protect from hot soil conditions.
Chinese dogwood (Cornus kousa)
Small (15-20 foot) tree with showy white flower bracts, appealing
multicolored bark of grays, browns and tans, stratified horizontal
branching pattern, attractive dark green leaves (red-purple fall color),
and colorful roundish oversized raspberry-like fruits. Vase shaped
plant grows rounded with age. Prefers sunny moist soils, but better
adapted to drought than C. florida. Flowers three weeks later and
has blossoms elevated above foliage by short flower stalks.
There are many cultivars with white and pink flower forms, foliage
variegation and other features. Satomi is one popular cultivar with
pink floral effects. Milky Way is a cultivar of C. kousa var. chinensis,
and has greater numbers of flowers and fruits than the species.
Rutgers hybrids are crosses of C. kousa and C. florida with
intermediate characteristics and improved disease resistance over
some C. florida cultivars. One example is Rutcan (trademark Constellation)
with exceptional flowering.
Corneliancherry dogwood (Cornus mas)
Excellent early-flowering, multistemmed, rounded to oval habit,
shrub or small tree (15-20 foot). Masses of tiny bright yellow flowers
jump-start spring in the landscape. Excellent in a mass. Features
include dark green leaves, flaky brown bark, small cherry red fruits,
and good adaptability to different sites.

Shrub dogwoods (Cornus species)

There are a number of native shrub dogwoods gaining in popularity,
including Cornus amomum, the silky dogwood, Cornus racemosa,
the gray dogwood and Cornus sericea, the redosier dogwood.
These are often used for informal naturalized plantings and provide
excellent fall and winter characteristics such as the porcelain-
blue fruits of silky dogwood, the white fruits and red fruit stalks of
gray dogwood, the attractive intensely colored stems of the redosier
dogwood, including the bright red stems of ‘Cardinal’ and the yellow
stems of ‘Flaviramea’ and the variegated foliage of cultivars such
as Cornus sericea ‘Silver and Gold.’

Read all about these dogwoods and many more flowering trees
and shrubs in “Landscape Plants for Ohio,” but for far more dogwood
details, check out or buy Paul Capiello and Don Shadow’s Dogwoods
from Timber Press (suggested retail $39.95). Try to imagine the
pictures of Cornus kousa ‘Sunsplash’ with its bright yellow wedges
on leaves of a deep green background. Imagine the deep pink floral
CHINESE DOGWOOD
bracts of Cornus kousa ‘Heart Throb’ or the pinks of Cornus florida
‘Red Cloud.’

There is a wonderful picture in the book of Cornus florida ‘Poinsett’

discovered in Lake County, Ohio with it yellow rather than the usual
red Cornus florida fruits paired with purple fall foliar color. There are
truly exotic plants such as Cornus florida var. pringlei with bracts
fused into what looks like a paper lantern, and pictures of the blood-
twig dogwood, Cornus sanguinea ‘Winter Beauty’ with its stems
of bright red intermingled with some orange and yellow stems,
accented in the winter against the waters of a pond in a wonderful
winterscape setting. It’s enough to make us remember Shelley’s
words: If winter comes, can spring be far behind?

CORNELIANCHERRY DOGWOOD

19
 NEW
GROWTH &
TECHNOLOGY
Effect of Nitrogen Source, Rate, Timing and
Application Method on Creeping Bentgrass
Quality and Dollar Spot
John Street & Deborah Holdren, Department of Horticulture & Crop Science, The Ohio State University
Abstract
Dollar spot (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa) is a major problem on high
maintenance turfgrasses like bentgrass (Agrostis palustris Huds),
annual bluegrass (Poa annua), Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.)
and perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). Foliar and granular
fertilization programs were compared on bentgrass performance and
dollar spot incidence at various nitrogen rates and application
frequencies. The granular fertilizer source consistently resulted in
lower color ratings than the foliar sources. Good to excellent color
responses did not always result in acceptable dollar spot supp-
ression. Foliar fertilization consistently resulted in less dollar spot
than comparable granular treatments. Foliar sources provided dollar
spot suppression for at least 70-80 days and 154 days without
fungicide at 12.2kg ha-1 N weekly (every 7 days) in 2004 and 2005,
respectively. This research suggests that foliar feeding with sufficient
nitrogen can reduce dollar spot severity and potentially result in less
fungicide use.
Introduction
Dollar spot (DS) continues to be problematic on high maintenance
turfgrasses like bentgrass, annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass,
and perennial ryegrass.
Golf course superintendents reportedly spend more money on
fungicides to control dollar spot than for any other turfgrass disease
(Vargas, 1994).
Superintendents managing bentgrass fairways are reporting more
intense dollar spot pressure and increased difficulty in dollar spot
control.
Many reasons have been hypothesized for these problems including
resistance in field populations of S. homoeocarpa to chemicals, lower
nitrogen fertility programs, fungicide interactions and PGR use.
20
Chlorothalonil has been used as a standard contact fungicide for
dollar spot management over the years. Recently, chlorothalonil use
by golf courses has been restricted to a certain seasonal limit. This
restriction has significantly influenced superintendent’s fungicide
usage programs and their chemical family alteration strategies for
dollar spot management.
Objective
The purpose of this research project was to (1) reiterate previous
Ohio State research on the effects of nitrogen fertilization rate, (light
rates versus traditional heavier rates), frequency (7 day vs 14 day
application schedule), and application method (foliar feed versus
granular feed), on bentgrass quality and dollar spot severity and (2)
determine the latter interactions on dollar spot incidence, fungicide
efficacy, reduced fungicide rates and extended fungicide application
intervals.
Materials and Methods
This study is being conducted at the OTF Research and Education
Facility at The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. The study was
a randomized complete block design with 3 replications.
Four fertilizers (three liquids and one granular), four nitrogen rates,
and two timing frequencies were used (Table 1).
The granular fertilizer Tee Time 20-4-12 (The Andersons) was applied
using a drop spreader. The liquids and water-soluble fertilizers were
applied using a CO2 pressurized sprayer using two flat fan nozzles
calibrated to deliver 814.4 L ha-1 (2 gal/1000 ft2).
Tee Time is a granular fertilizer containing 1% polymer – coated
ammoniacal nitrogen and 19% urea nitrogen with 12% of the urea
Continued on page 22
TABLE 1: FERTILIZER SOURCES, RATES, FREQUENCIES AND N/MONTH TABLE 3: LEAF TISSUE N

N Treatment N Rate Timing Total/N/Month Fertilizer Source 7 Day Frequency 14 Day Frequency
(kg ha-1) (kg ha-1)

ACLF 8.6 12.2 7 day 34.4 48.8 8.6 kg ha-1 12.2 kg ha-1 17.1 kg ha-1 24.4 kg ha-1

HPF-N 8.6 12.2 34.4 48.8

%N %N
Tee-Time 8.6 12.2 34.4 48.8
ACLF (20-2-1) 5.0efg 5.5abc 5.1def 5.6ab
Bulldog 8.6 12.2 34.4 48.8
HPF-N (19-1-1) 4.8fgh 5.3bcd 4.9efgh 5.8a
ACLF 17.1 24.4 14 day 34.4 48.8
Tee-Time (20-4-12) 4.7gh 4.7gh 4.6h 5.0defg
HPF-N 17.1 24.4 34.4 48.8
Bulldog (28-8-18) 5.0efg 5.6ab 5.2cde 5.7ab
Tee-Time 17.1 24.4 34.4 48.8
Unfertilized Check 3.7i 3.7i 3.7i 3.7i
Bulldog 17.1 24.4 34.4 48.8

Untreated Check ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- LSD (0.05) 0.35

Fertilizer treatments received no-fungicide, half rate and full rate “pre-diesease” applications at 30 day
intervals beginning in May 2004 and 2005.

TABLE 2: DOLLAR SPOT SEVERITY AS AFFECTED BY N SOURCE, RATE AND APPLICATION FREQUENCY

% Dollar Spot

Fertilizer Source N Rate (kg ha-1) Timing 2 - Aug - 2004 22 - Sept - 2005

No Fung Half Full No Fung Half Full

Tee-Time 8.6 7 day 56.7 33.3 20.0 25.0 21.7 11.7

ACLF 8.6 20.0 16.7 10.0 21.7 20.0 8.3
Bulldog 8.6 8.3 10.0 5.0 16.7 11.7 8.3
HPF-N 8.6 18.3 15.0 11.7 16.7 11.7 6.7

Tee-Time 12.2 7 day 46.7 31.7 18.3 28.3 28.3 18.3

ACLF 12.2 1.7 1.7 0.0 11.7 8.3 3.3
Bulldog 12.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.7 1.7 0.0
HPF-N 12.2 1.7 0.0 0.0 6.7 1.7 1.7

Tee-Time 17.1 14 day 46.7 21.7 23.3 33.3 25.0 18.3

ACLF 17.1 21.7 20.0 13.3 28.3 25.0 16.7
Bulldog 17.1 26.7 13.3 8.3 21.7 13.3 10.0
HPF-N 17.1 28.3 16.7 18.3 20.0 18.3 11.7

Tee-Time 24.4 14 day 30.0 20.0 16.7 26.7 25.0 16.7

ACLF 24.4 20.0 10.0 6.7 25.0 18.3 10.0
Bulldog 24.4 18.3 8.3 3.3 1.7 0.0 0.0
HPF-N 24.4 21.7 6.7 6.7 10.0 8.3 3.3
Unfertilized ---- ---- 16.7 35.0 26.7 30.0 25.0 18.3

LSD (0.05) 10.52 LSD (0.05) 12.56

21
 Continued from page 20
as micro prilled sulfur coated urea. Bulldog 28-8-18 is a dry
water-soluble fertilizer with 2.1% ammoniacal nitrogen, 5.4% nitrate
nitrogen and 20.5% urea nitrogen for liquid/foliar feeding.
ACLF 20-2-1 and HPF 19-1-1 (Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers) are
liquid solutions also designed for liquid/foliar feeding composed
of urea, nitrate and ammoniacal nitrogen with micronutrients.
The nitrogen rates were 0.175 lbN/1000 ft2 (8.6 kg/ha-1), 0.25 lbN/
1000ft2 (12.2 kg ha-1), 0.35 lb N/1000ft2 (17.1 kg/ha-1) and 0.5lb N/
1000ft2 (24.4 kg ha-1).
Chlorothalonil was split across the fertilizer source/rate/timing treat-
ments as no-fungicide, half rate 5.1 L ha-1 (1.625 oz/1000ft2), and
full rate “pre-disease” 10.3 L ha-1 (3.25 oz/1000ft2), resulting in 54
total treatments. Applications were made on about a 30 day treat-
ment schedule beginning 11 May and ending 14 Sep 2004 and again
on 26 May and ending 30 Sep 2005.
Mowing was performed three times a week (Monday, Wednesday,
and Friday) using a Toro 3100 triplex mower with a bench setting
of 1.3 cm and clippings were removed. The site was irrigated on a
regular basis to prevent wilt. Insecticide applications were made for
cutworms, white grubs and black turfgrass ataenius. Preemergence
herbicide was applied in April.
Dollar spot ratings were taken during active dollar spot periods.
Dollar spot was very active in May/June and again in late July
through September, 2004 and August/September, 2005. Dollar spot
was rated subjectively as an estimate of percent plot infected with
0 = no visible disease and 100 = total dollar spot cover.
Clippings were harvested on 13 Sep 2004 by making a single pass
down the center of each nitrogen treatment with a commercial walk
behind greensmower. Clippings were bagged, dried at 65°C for
72 hours and analyzed for total nitrogen content of clippings (% by
weight) using the Kjeldahl method.
Results
Dollar spot (DS) severity is reported for peak DS periods in August,
2004 and September, 2005 (Table 2).
All granular treatments resulted in consistently more DS when
compared to equivalent foliar treatments. Among the granular no-
fungicide treatments, 24.4 kg ha-1 N every 14 days resulted in the
least amount of DS and was the only granular no-fungicide treat-
ment to exhibit a DS reduction less than the unfertilized no-fungicide
check.
All granular treatments in both 2004 and 2005 failed to provide
levels of DS control that would be acceptable among most
superintendents.
Among the no-fungicide foliar treatments, all sources at 12.2 kg
ha-1 N every 7 days consistently exhibited the least amount of DS
22
and provided remarkable DS suppression for 80 days and 154 days
in 2004 and 2005, respectively.
All the foliar treatments at 12.2 kg ha-1 N every 7 days in comb-
ination with half rate fungicide resulted in less than 3% DS in 2004,
less than 10% DS in 2005, and minimized peaks in DS severity as
compared with fertilizer treatments alone, and DS control was
equivalent to the full fungicide rate.
At the foliar N rates of 8.6 and 17.7 kg ha-1 N every 7 and 14 days,
respectively, Bulldog was the only foliar source that consistently
exhibited a trend towards acceptable DS control at the half and full
fungicide rates in both 2004 and 2005.
All the foliar sources at 12.2 kg ha-1 N every 7 days consistently
provided better DS control than the foliar sources at 24.4 kg ha-1 N
every 14 days.
Finally, granular treatments had lower N levels than the foliar treat-
ments within the same rate/frequency programs. DS was lowest at
N contents of ≥ 5% (Table 3).
Conclusions
There exists a very positive relationship between DS control/
suppression, N rate and application frequency with foliar N sources.
Total rate and application frequency are both important.
This research to date suggests that DS control/suppression is
impacted by higher N rates (i.e. 48.8 kg ha-1 N per month) than are
typically being used by superintendents today. Foliar fertilization
provides consistently superior DS suppression than equivalent
granular fertilization. Foliar fertilization every 7 days results in
better DS control than foliar fertilization every 14 days.
It is also apparent that N source responses that produce acceptable
color responses may not be sufficient monthly or seasonal totals to
significantly impact DS suppression.
The N content of leaf tissue among the various treatments suggests
that DS suppression via N requires foliar N levels at the upper end of
the sufficiency range of 3 to 6% with a target of 5% or greater.
More research needs to be conducted on foliar feeding, foliar
feeding efficiency, N rate and fungicide programming, and PGRs/
foliar feeding responses.
References
Williams, D.W., A.J. Powell, Jr., P. Vincelli, and C.T. Dougherty. 1996. Dollar spot on bentgrass
influenced by displacement of leaf surface moisture, nitrogen and clipping removal. Crop
Sci. 36: 1304-1309.
Burpee, L.L. and L.G. Goultry. 1987. Influence of liquid formulation of N on epidemics of dol-
lar spot disease in a mixed stand of creeping bentgrass and annual bluegrass. P. 73-75. In
Guelph Turfgrass Inst. Annu Rep. Guelph Turfgrass Inst., Guelph, ON.
Acknowledgements
Thanks to the Greater Pittsburgh Golf Course Superintendents Association and The Ohio
Turfgrass Foundation for supporting this research.
GRADUATE STUDENT CORNER – Ed Nagle
(ADVISOR: DR. DAVID GARDNER)
Thesis Title: The effectiveness of Primo (Trinexapac ethyl) and
foliar nitrogen on improving shade tolerance in bentgrass greens.
Ed Nagle has traveled originally
from Ireland, a country with a
famous reputation for fine golf
courses and many other like-
able attributes. These have been
created by the fact that it is
the first place where the tough
weather from the north Atlantic ocean first contacts land creating
some beautiful landscapes. Ed studied for his BSc in Turfgrass
Science at Myerscough College in the United Kingdom where
he carried out three years full time education and completed his
degree with a year’s internship experience on Daufuskie Island,
South Carolina under the tutelage of Superintendent Dan
Hemmerle. Ed was involved in the setting up of the first student
chapter of the GCSAA outside of the USA in Myerscough College.
He carried out research into the effects of saline water in
irrigation supplies on major cool season grasses when completing
his degree at the University of Central Lancashire under the
guidance of Dr. Martyn Jones, Dr. Colin Stanfield and Dr. Peter
Lumsden.
Ed then returned to Ireland to his home course in Enniscorthy and
took up a position as second assistant golf course superintendent.
A visit to the GCSAA show in Atlanta in 2003 renewed his interest
in travel and he set off to work in Australia at Royal Melbourne
GC and helped to prepare the course for the ‘Heineken Classic’,
a combined European and Asian PGA tour event which was won
by Ernie Els for the third consecutive time. He also worked in
Brookwater GC with Troon Golf management and at Pacific Harbor
and Queensland on their new golf course construction project.
Ed then returned to Ohio to work for Mike O’Keeffe and organized
his MSc from there.
His research involves the use of the growth regulator Primo and
investigating its success on improving density and turf quality on
golf greens grown in three different light environments. The
effect of tree shade is a common problem and most of the recent
research has concentrated on using shade cloth so it is interest-
ing to use the research plots located under the deciduous trees
at the research facility to see how this effects the turfgrass
quality. There will also be an interest in suitable rates of nitrogen
to apply in conjunction with the applications of Primo to hopefully
improve turf quality in shaded areas. He loves life at the University
and being a big sports fan has a big interest in the football and
basketball teams. He hopes to return to Ireland and venture into
the industry there and help carry the good name of Ohio around
the world.
23
 3RD ANNUAL OHIO STATE
GOLF TURF
SPRING TEE-OFF
March 1 - 3, 2006
Holiday Inn on the Lane
Columbus, Ohio
The Ohio Turfgrass Foundation, in conjunction with OSU -
Extension and OSU/OARDC, is pleased to present the 3rd
Annual Ohio State Golf Turf Spring Tee-Off Conference,
Wednesday, March 1 through Friday, March 3 at the Holiday
Inn on the Lane, Columbus. This two and a half day conference
will allow golf turf professionals and turf students to interact
and gain new product and research updates along with
changes occurring in Ohio’s golf industry. Most of the speakers
on the program are OSU professors, OSU alumni, or work in
the Ohio region - giving you information pertinent to Ohio’s
turfgrass industry. 1.35 GCSAA Education points and 5 hours
of Category 8 ODA Pesticide License Re-Certification credit
are available.
The Spring Tee-Off includes a Welcome Reception for all
Wednesday participants and the OSU Turf Club Luncheon
to be held Thursday. Ohio Department of Agriculture testing
for various licenses will be available Friday following the
conference.
To register, complete and return the form on the opposite
page. Please visit our Web site, www.OhioTurfgrass.org or
call (888) 683-3445 with questions. We look forward to teeing
off the spring season with you in Columbus.
For hotel reservations, contact the Holiday Inn on the Lane at
614-294-4848 or www.holidayinnosu.com and register as a
guest of the Ohio Turfgrass Foundation.
Following is the listing of sessions to be presented at this
year’s Spring Tee-off:
GCSAA Education Points
Wednesday, March 1 = .40 Education Points
Thursday, March 2 = .60 Education Points
Friday, March 3 = .35 Education Points
ODA Pesticide License Testing for Various Categories
24
Wednesday, March 1
• USGA Year in Preview – Bob Brame, USGA
• Velocity Herbicide and Other Poa Controls –
Dr. John Street, OSU (Cat. 8, .5 hr.)
• Industry Update: Roundup Ready Update –
Wayne Horman, The Scotts Co.
• Superintendents Roundtable –
Moderators: Bob Brame, USGA & Todd Voss, OTF
• Welcome Reception – FREE to all conference registrants
Thursday, March 2
• Fertilizer – Can We Afford It? – Dr. John Street, OSU
• Hot Topics/Industry Trends –
Larry Aylward, Golfdom Magazine
• Industry Update: Emerald Ash Borer –
Dr. David Shetlar, OSU
• Insecticide Programs for 2006 –
Dr. David Shetlar, OSU (Cat. 8, .5 hr)
• OSU/GCSAA Student Turf Club Luncheon
• USGA Rules Affecting Superintendents –
Bill McCarthy, USGA
• Disease Update – When Your Program Falls Apart –
Joe Rimelspach, OSU (Cat. 8, 1 hr.)
• Industry Update: OSU Professional Golf Management
Program – Dr. Ray Miller, OSU
• Golf Greens Hydrology – Dr. Ed McCoy, OSU
• Dollar Spot – When Should We Make Our First
Application? – Dr. Mike Boehm, OSU (Cat. 8, 1 hr.)
Friday, March 3
• Broadleaf Weed Control –
Dr. David Gardner, OSU (Cat. 8, 1 hr.)
• PGR’s and other Chemical Approaches to Stress
Tolerance – Dr. Karl Danneberger, OSU (Cat. 8, 1 hr.)
• Ohio Turfgrass Research Trust Founders Club Update –
Paul Jacquemin, OTRT
• Weathering the Storm with Effective Communications
Within the Club – Chad Mark, Kirtland Country Club
• Golf Design with Maintenance in Mind –
Jason Straka, Hurdzan/Fry Golf Course Design
Program subject to change.
 Ohio State Golf Turf Spring Tee-Off Registration Form
*Completing this form serves management notice that you agree to be contacted by mail, phone, fax and e-mail.
Advance Registration Form & Payment Due
All attendees require a name badge so be sure to complete all the information for each person being registered.
By Wednesday, February 22, 2006 This form may be photocopied as necessary.
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Refunds will be available by written request only. Any changes to Mail or fax completed form to:
Method of payment: registration or cancellations prior to the Conference are subject to a $25
processing fee. 50% refunds will be available if received in writing by
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 THE 2006 OTF BOARD OF DIRECTORS, STANDING, LEFT TO RIGHT: DAN WALTER, CITY OF BLUE ASH GC; MARK JORDAN, WESTFIELD COMPANIES CC; DR. CHUCK DARRAH,
CLC LABS; MARK GRUNKEMEYER, BUCKEYE ECOCARE; DON LAWRENCE, RED HAWK RUN GC; KEVIN THOMPSON, OTF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR; TODD VOSS, DOUBLE EAGLE CLUB;
JOE ENCISO, CENTURY EQUIPMENT; GLEN POTTENGER, LARCH TREE GC. SEATED, LEFT TO RIGHT: DR. JOHN STREET, THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY; RANDY SHAVER, STRATEGIC
GOLF ALLIANCE; AND DOUG GALLANT, THE CINCINNATI REDS. NOT PICTURED: KIM KELLOGG, GRASSHOPPER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE.

MANY OF OTF’S DISTINGUISHED PAST PRESIDENTS GATHERED FOR THE ANNUAL PAST PRESIDENTS LUNCHEON. BACK ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY TISCHER,
MARK HEINLEIN, JOHN MOWAT AND GEORGE FURRER. SECOND ROW: ED ODORIZZI, DOUG HALTERMAN, RICK KUCHARSKI, JIM SHARP, JOE MOTZ, ED EATON,
HANK CHAFIN, JOE DUNCAN AND DAVID WEBNER. FRONT ROW: GARY STEWART, BILL BURDICK, MARK YODER, PAUL MORGAN, GENE PROBASCO, CHARLIE TADGE AND
HARRY MURRAY.

26
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OTF Board of Trustees 2006 OTF Officers 2006 OSU Turfgrass

Science Team
Trustees President
Term Expires 2007 Horticulture & Crop Science
Glen Pottenger, CGCS
Joe Enciso Larch Tree Golf Course
Dr. John Street
Century Equipment
Vice President Dr. Karl Danneberger
Randy Shaver Dr. David Gardner
Strategic Golf Alliance, Inc. Mark Jordan Ms. Pamela Sherratt
Westfield Companies Country Club Ms. Jill Taylor
Trustees Ms. Deborah Holdren
Treasurer
Term Expires 2008
Entomology
Todd Voss
Doug Gallant
Double Eagle Club Dr. Dave Shetlar
Cincinnati Reds
Dr. Parwinder Grewal
Immediate Past President Mr. Kevin Power
Trustees
Term Expires 2009 Dr. Chuck Darrah Mr. Dan Digman
CLC LABS
Mark Grunkemeyer Plant Pathology
Buckeye Ecocare
Director of Education Dr. Michael Boehm
Kim Kellogg Dr. John R. Street Mr. Joseph Rimelspach
Grasshopper Property Maint. The Ohio State University Mr. Todd Hicks

Don Lawrence Executive Director School of Natural Resources

Red Hawk Run G.C.
Kevin Thompson Dr. Ed McCoy
Dan Walter OTF/Offinger Management Co. Mr. Stephen Schneider
City of Blue Ash
Agricultural Technical
Institute (ATI)
Mr. David Willoughby
Dr. Daniel Voltz
1600/0206/061