Response of TifEagle Bermudagrass to Verticutting and Nitrogen Levels. (4837)
Authors:
W. Hanna* - University of Georgia
Abstract:
Vertical mowing, top-dressing, brushing and grooming are traditional methods used to control thatch in golf greens. Thatch development and control are major concerns for the growers of TifEagle and the ultradwarf bermudagrasses. The introduction of the Graden Verti-Cutter which uses saw blades in 1/8, 1/10, and 1/16 inch
thicknesses seems to offer a more friendly approach to removing thatch in the ultradwarfs. However, there is little information on using this piece of equipment on the ultradwarfs. Our objective was to evaluate the Graden mower for controlling thatch in TifEagle plots receiving 1/4 or 1/2 pound of nitrogen (N) every two weeks in 2001 and 2002. Blade width appeared to have little effect on turf quality in either year. Less organic matter was removed from plots where the 1/8 inch blades were used compared to the other blade widths in year 2. However, more material was lifted out of the turf with the 1/8 inch blade in the first year. Turf quality was
reduced for about two weeks after verticutting in the spring or early summer. Primo speeded up recovery after verticutting in year 1, but not in year 2. N level had little effect on turf quality in year 2, but 1/2 pound N produced better turf in year 1.
Increasing N level before verticutting should also speed up turf recovery. Deep verticutting was necessary at least once per year to control thatch.
Speaker Information: Wayne Hanna, University of Georgia, Coastal Plain Experiment Station P.O. Box 748, Tifton, GA 31793; Phone: 229-386-3184; E-mail:
Session Information: Tuesday, November 2, 2004, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Presentation Start: 1:00 PM (Poster Board Number: 1405)
Keywords: bermudagrass; turf; ultradwarf; nitrogen fertility
