Issuu

Spring 2026

Granular Flumioxazin as an Alternative to Oxadiazon Plus, Highlights from the 2026 ATA Road Shows

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Spring 2026

TOP FEATURES 14

Feature —

Member Spotlight on Dave Han, Ph.D.

Feature —

Turf Tips

Cover Story — Granular Flumioxazin as an

14 20

Alternative to Oxadiazon Recent Event —

2026 ATA Road Shows Upcoming Event —

22 Poa Annua classic 20

DEPARTMENTS 6 6 18 23

From the President’s Pen ATA Annual Sponsors News from ATA Index of Advertisers

Find this issue, Podcasts, Events and More: THETURFZONE.COM

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Spring 2026

www.alabamaturf.org 4

ON THE COVER: Robert Trent Jones Trail at Cambrian Ridge in Greenville, AL – host to the 2026 Poa annua Classic on March 31st. Credit: Jonathan Hoomes, RTJ Golf Trail

The Alabama Turfgrass Association serves its members in the industry through education, promotion and representation. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, or its board of directors, Alabama Turf Times, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as Alabama Turfgrass Association members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this quarterly publication. Copyright © 2026 by the Alabama Turfgrass Association. Alabama Turf Times is published quarterly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of the Alabama Turfgrass Association. Third-class postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs. Contact the managing editor for contribution information. Advertising: For display and classified advertising rates and insertion please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Suite 200, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com

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From the President’s Pen >>>

PROVIDING GREATER VALUE S

pring is here, and with it comes one of the busiest and most exciting times for our industry. As the days grow longer and the turf begins to green up, we know many of you are hard at work preparing fields, lawns, and landscapes for the season ahead. Your dedication and expertise are what keep Alabama’s turfgrass thriving, and we’re proud to support you during this critical time. Looking ahead to 2026, we have several key initiatives designed to strengthen our association and provide even greater value to our members. I hope you had the opportunity to attend one of our Road Shows (and earn those ever-important pesticide points!). These events are an excellent opportunity to learn from industry leaders, discover new techniques, and connect with peers. If you haven’t already, make plans to join us at an upcoming event and get even more involved. Another opportunity to get involved is our Poa annua classic. It's our fundraiser for the Alabama Turfgrass Research Foundation. It will be held on March 31st at the RTJ Golf Trail at Cambrian Ridge in Greenville, AL. Come out and support the industry and enjoy this beautiful course. We also want to take a moment to thank our sponsors. Their continued support allows us to deliver high-quality educational programs and resources that benefit every member. Please join us in showing appreciation to these partners who help move the turfgrass industry forward.

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Spring 2026

As the season ramps up, remember that ATA is here to support you with education, networking, and resources. Let’s make this spring—and the entire year—a time of growth, collaboration, and success. Thank you for your commitment to excellence. I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events and working together to make 2026 a year to remember. Warm regards,

Drew Charcandy President, Alabama Turfgrass Association 6

Drew Charcandy

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Member Spotlight >>>

Member Spotlight:

DR. DAVID HAN

Roots in Science and a Path to Turfgrass

or more than two decades, Dr. David Han has been a steady and influential presence in Alabama’s turfgrass industry. As an Associate Professor and Turfgrass Specialist for Extension at Auburn University, Dr. Han has dedicated his career to advancing turfgrass education, supporting industry professionals, and mentoring the next generation of leaders. His work through the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and the Alabama Turfgrass Association (ATA) continues to leave a lasting mark across the state and beyond.

Dr. Han grew up in Urbana, Illinois, and pursued his undergraduate and master’s degrees at Cornell University before earning his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University. With a bachelor’s degree in biology, his early academic path was rooted firmly in the sciences. It was during his time at The Ohio State University that Dr. Mike Boehm, his postdoctoral advisor, helped point him toward the turfgrass industry—a direction that would ultimately shape his career. Along the way, he was influenced by some of the most respected minds in turfgrass, including Dr. A.J. Powell, Dr. Mike Goatley, and several outstanding superintendents such as Todd Voss and Mark Yoder. Their professionalism and approach to the craft demonstrated what it truly takes to excel in turf management. Closer to home, Dr. Han credits numerous Alabama turf professionals as role models, singling out James Horton as “standing out among the standouts.”

Ryan Swilling

North AL 423.503.5542 Ryan.Swilling@RegalChem.com

Kevin Brooks

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Doug Webb

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Member Spotlight >>> Continued

A Career Built on Service and Education Dr. Han began his tenure at Auburn University in 2000 and has since worn many hats—educator, researcher, Extension specialist, and industry leader. In addition to his academic responsibilities, he serves as Educational Director for the ATA and the Deep South Turf Expo, helping shape high-quality programming for turf professionals across the region. There is no such thing as a “typical” day in his role. One day may involve teaching university students; the next, visiting a golf course, baseball field, or sod farm; and another, leading a workshop or speaking at an industry event. This variety is part of what makes his work meaningful. What does he enjoy most? Simply put: helping people do their jobs better. Whether that means diagnosing a turf issue, interpreting data, or providing practical guidance, Dr. Han is passionate about being a resource for the industry. The greatest challenge, he admits with a smile, is time—there is always more to do (and ATA is always asking for something!). Among his proudest accomplishments are the many successful graduates who have come through Auburn’s turf program and are now thriving in their careers. Seeing former students excel in the field is, for him, one of the most rewarding aspects of his work.

Industry Evolution and Perspective Since starting at Auburn, Dr. Han has witnessed significant changes in the turfgrass industry. The introduction of automated equipment—drones, robotic mowers, and advanced data systems—has transformed operations. While these tools offer tremendous opportunity for precision and efficiency, he cautions that data is only as valuable as the understanding behind it. “It could be good or bad if you don’t know what the data is telling you,” he notes. Looking ahead, he sees both challenges and opportunities for turf professionals in Alabama. Technology continues to advance, expectations continue to rise, and environmental stewardship remains critical. For those just starting out in the industry, his advice is simple but powerful: stay curious, stay connected, and never stop learning.

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Spring 2026

Commitment to ATA Dr. Han’s involvement with ATA has been extensive, including his leadership role as Educational Director. Through conferences, workshops, and the Deep South Turf Expo, he has helped elevate educational opportunities for members across the state. ATA membership, in his view, fosters connection, professional growth, and a shared commitment to advancing the industry. The relationships built through ATA strengthen not only individual careers but also Alabama’s turfgrass community as a whole.

Life Beyond Turf Outside of work, Dr. Han’s life is centered on faith and family. He and his wife, Tara, have been married for 26 years and are the proud parents of Jacob, 17, who enjoys aviation and gaming, and Laura, 13, who participates in band at East Samford School. Their home is also lively, with four cats (Dr. Han proudly admits he’s a “cat man”). He is actively involved at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, where he sings in the choir and has served as backup choir director since last fall. Much of his free time is spent supporting his children’s activities and enjoying the close-knit feel of Auburn—a university town that, despite its growth, still feels like home. The weather doesn’t hurt either.

Looking Ahead When asked about his goals for the next five to ten years, Dr. Han responds with characteristic humor and heart: “Save the world! Keep people from destroying the world.” At its core, that means continuing to advance Auburn’s turf program, promote responsible management practices, and support the professionals who care for Alabama’s landscapes. Even as retirement eventually approaches, he hopes to remain connected to the industry that has given him so much. His dedication to education, mentorship, and service ensures that his influence will continue to shape Alabama turfgrass for years to come. The Alabama Turfgrass Association is honored to spotlight Dr. David Han—a leader, educator, and advocate whose passion for helping others defines both his career and his character.

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Turf TIPS By Dave Han, Ph.D. Auburn University and Alabama Extension

Table 1. Key 4-inch soil temperatures for turfgrass management decisions

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Spring 2026

Temperatures will still fluctuate Most parts of Alabama aren’t truly safe from all possibility of frost until mid-April. Even then, it’s possible to get stuck into a pattern of warm days (80 F or even warmer) but cool nights (temps falling into the 50s). This temperature pattern holds back the growth of warm-season grasses. They may have been green for weeks, but don’t really start to show fast lateral growth until the soil temperature stays above 70 degrees consistently. This usually takes both warm days and nighttime lows remaining in the 60s. Slow lateral growth in April and May frustrates many turf managers and their clients, especially if the turf experienced some injury from cold, disease or pests during the winter. It’s important to remember that as long as the soil is still relatively cool, early fertilizer applications will have little effect on the rate that grasses fill in damaged areas. It’s the temperature that holds back spreading growth this time of year.

Event

Soil Temp. (F)

Crabgrass seed germination

55° – 65°

Warm season grass spring greenup

55° – 65°

Goosegrass seed germination

65° – 75°

Warm season turfgrass that is “stuck” in greenup mode can also be more sensitive to postemergence herbicides than it will be during hot weather. This is especially true with centipedegrass, but can happen with any species. Many postemergence herbicides have language on the label that urges caution when applying them during spring greenup, or outright recommends waiting until the grass is completely out of dormancy to apply them. This can take until well into May in north Alabama.

70° and up

Annual insect pests will be laying eggs soon

Bermudagrass and centipedegrass seed germination

Significant root and rhizome growth for warm season grasses

70° and up

Summer annual broadleaf weed germination

70° and up

Ryegrass seed germination

60° – 70°

Poa annua seed germination

50° – 80°

Sources: Turgeon & Kaminski (2019), McCarty (2011), Turgeon (2004)

hen hot weather arrives, our warm season grasses will soon shift into high gear and simply keeping up with them can be a challenge. Here are some reminders of what to expect and look out for in the transition from spring to summer.

For those in the sandy soils of the coastal plain, now is the time to think about getting ready to apply insecticides to areas that showed mole cricket tunneling damage earlier in the spring. Like any insect pest, mole crickets are easiest to control when they are very young – just hatched is perfect! They usually lay their eggs in from April to May, and eggs take 3-4 weeks to hatch. That means May is the perfect month to get an insecticide with a good residual activity into the soil so that new nymphs are killed right after they hatch, and don’t ever have the opportunity to grow into the larger stages that can damage turf with their tunnelling. Likewise, white grubs will soon be pupating and adults usually emerge to mate and lay eggs in the May-July time frame, depending on the exact species of white grub. As is the case with mole crickets, an application of an insecticide with a soil residual measured in months will head off problems with grub damage in the fall. Scout for grubs in the spring by cutting back the sod and looking for the larvae, or count adults as they fly by catching them in pheromone traps.

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ALABAMA TURF TIMES

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Cover Story >>>

Granular Flumioxazin as an Alternative to Oxadiazon Gracie Cotter, Graduate Student, Turfgrass Science, Auburn University Travis Gannon, Professor, Herbicide Chemistry, NC State University Scott McElroy, Professor, Turfgrass Science, Auburn University

lumioxazin belongs to the protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor class of herbicides, group 14 under the HRAC classification system. PPO inhibitors interfere with chlorophyll production, causing a buildup of photodynamic compounds that damage cell membranes, leading to rapid desiccation of tissue and eventual plant death. These herbicides are known for their rapid activity and their ability to target a broad range of weed species, including grasses, broadleaves, and sedges. PPO inhibitors are already familiar to turfgrass managers because of a widely used compound in this same group: oxadiazon.

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Spring 2026

For several decades, oxadiazon has played a distinctive role in warm-season turfgrass weed management. Popular products containing oxadiazon include Ronstar from Bayer and Andersons Goosegrass/Crabgrass Control. Oxadiazon is one of the oldest PPO inhibitors used in turf and has long been valued for two characteristics. First, it inhibits both chloroplast and mitochondrial PPO enzymes, an unusual feature that contributes to its reliable control of annual grasses such as crabgrass and goosegrass (Dayan et al., 2018). Second, in its granular formulation, oxadiazon does not harm root development of established turfgrasses (Johnson, 1980). Because the granules fall through the canopy and directly to the soil surface, they minimize foliar deposition and reduce the likelihood of turfgrass injury. Golf courses, sports fields, and sod farms throughout Alabama have relied on these traits to maintain consistent preemergence weed control in bermudagrass and zoysiagrass systems. However, the landscape surrounding the use of oxadiazon has begun to change. In 2022, the Environmental Protection Agency issued an interim decision (EPA HQ-OPP-2014-0782) that reclassified oxadiazon as a Restricted Use Pesticide. This change does not diminish its effectiveness, but it does alter how and where the product can be applied. At the same time, research monitoring resistance to oxadiazon has documented mutations affecting the PPO1 (chloroplast) target site (Bi et al., 2019). This means that other PPO inhibitors that primarily act on the PPO2 enzyme have the potential for control of oxadiazon-resistant weeds. These developments highlight the importance of evaluating additional PPO options for control. 14

Relying on a single active ingredient indefinitely is rarely sustainable, and having multiple PPO tools available strengthens long-term weed management flexibility. This context has renewed interest in flumioxazin. While structurally different from oxadiazon, flumioxazin shares the PPO inhibition mode of action and has been used for years in other agricultural settings. What sets it apart is its broader activity on weeds that oxadiazon does not typically control well, particularly sedges and certain difficult broadleaf species. In addition, flumioxazin provides both preemergence and early postemergence activity, making its window of activity wider than many common preemergence herbicides. Historically, flumioxazin has been applied in liquid form. Liquid formulations can be effective, but they also require careful application to avoid unintended leaf injury. In many turf systems, managers may prefer a formulation that allows for uniform placement and less risk of injury to turfgrass. For these reasons, granular flumioxazin formulations have been developed, such as Broadstar from Nufarm and StayGuard from Harrell’s. These products deliver the same active ingredient but in a form that rests on the soil surface rather than coating turfgrass foliage. Interest in how granular flumioxazin performs in turfgrass has grown in part because certain weed species are becoming more prevalent. One example is cockscomb kyllinga (Kyllinga squamulata), an annual sedge with potential perennial tendencies capable of rapid infestation via immense seed production and an ability to thrive in moist, low-mow environments (McElroy et al., 2004). Another is smooth crabgrass (Digitaria ischaemum), a common summer annual grass that remains one of the most competitive weed species in warm season turf and one of the first species to develop herbicidal resistance in turfgrass systems (Heap, 2025). Doveweed (Murdannia nudiflora), with its creeping growth habit and late germination window (Atkinson et al., 2019), has also become increasingly common in Alabama’s warm and humid summers. These weeds differ in biology and emergence patterns, but they share the ability to spread aggressively once established. Each presents challenges for preemergence and early postemergence herbicides, making broad-spectrum materials an asset in management programs. Research Methods. To better understand how granular flumioxazin fits into turfgrass management, a field study was conducted at the Auburn University Sports Surface Field Lab. The trial compared Stayguard, the chosen granular flumioxazin, alone and in sequential applications, several widely used preemergence herbicides such as Barricade, Pendulum Aquacap, and Specticle Flo also alone and in sequential applications, and combinations where a preemergence treatment was followed by a Stayguard application later in the season. The plots were established on bermudagrass mowed at 0.75 inches and weed control ratings were collected throughout the growing season. The study was designed to reflect a realistic management scenario where a turf manager might combine a proven preemergence product with a second application of a granular material to reinforce control or broaden the spectrum. Treatments and their timings are listed in Table 1.

Table 1

Results. StayGuard controlled cockscomb kyllinga and smooth crabgrass effectively in some application scenarios. When as a second application following common preemergence herbicides such as Barricade, Pendulum Aquacap, or Specticle Flo, the StayGuard treatments controlled both smooth crabgrass and cockscomb kyllinga >90% on August 10th, 145 days after the initial application (Figure 1). By comparison, sequential applications of Barricade and Pendulum applied alone controlled cockscomb kyllinga <60% indicating that StayGuard as a second application can improve control of these weeds. For turfgrass practitioners, this means that granular flumioxazin can complement existing programs by strengthening earlyseason control while also broadening the spectrum to include more problematic sedge species. In addition, bermudagrass tolerance was also encouraging. The granular formulation minimized foliar exposure, which in turn reduced the injury. This reinforces one of the primary advantages of granular herbicides: the ability to deliver the active ingredient directly to the soil surface without coating turf foliage. Finally, the study offered an interesting observation about sedge control. Some cockscomb kyllinga populations had already begun emerging before the sequential granular flumioxazin application was made, yet control was still observed. While granular PPO herbicides are primarily intended as preemergence tools, this raised the possibility of limited activity on newly emerged weeds. Additional research is underway to better understand the soil-based uptake pathways that contribute to this early postemergence effect.

Product

Active Ingredient

Product Rate

AI Rate

Formulation Formulation Type Concentration

Application

Nontreated

StayGuard

flumioxazin

300 lb/A

0.375 lb ai/gal

Granular

0.125% w/w

A: March 18, 2025

StayGuard StayGuard

flumioxazin flumioxazin

300 lb/A 300 lb/A

0.375 lb ai/gal 0.375 lb ai/gal

Granular Granular

0.125% w/w 0.125% w/w

A: March 18, 2025 B: May 15, 2025

Barricade 4FL

prodiamine

32 fl oz/A

1 lb ai/gal

Liquid FL

4 lb ai/gal

A: March 18, 2025

Pendulum Aquacap

pendimethalin

3.1 pt/A

1.47 lb ai/gal

Liquid CS

3.8 lb ai/gal

A: March 18, 2025

Specticle Flo

indaziflam

9 fl oz/A

0.044 lb ai/gal

Liquid FL

0.6 lb ai/gal

A: March 18, 2025

Barricade 4FL Barricade 4FL

prodiamine prodiamine

21 fl oz/A 21 fl oz/A

1 lb ai/gal 1 lb ai/gal

Liquid FL Liquid FL

4 lb ai/gal 4 lb ai/gal

A: March 18, 2025 B: May 15, 2025

Pendulum Aquacap Pendulum Aquacap

pendimethalin pendimethalin

3.1 pt/A 3.1 pt/A

1.47 lb ai/gal 1.47 lb ai/gal

Liquid CS Liquid CS

3.8 lb ai/gal 3.8 lb ai/gal

A: March 18, 2025 B: May 15, 2025

Specticle Flo Specticle Flo

indaziflam indaziflam

4.5 fl oz/A 4.5 fl oz/A

0.044 lb ai/gal 0.044 lb ai/gal

Liquid FL Liquid FL

0.6 lb ai/gal 0.6 lb ai/gal

A: March 18, 2025 B: May 15, 2025

Barricade 4FL StayGuard

prodiamine flumioxazin

21 fl oz/A 300 lb/A

1 lb ai/gal 0.375 lb ai/gal

Liquid FL Granular

4 lb ai/gal 0.125% w/w

A: March 18, 2025 B: May 15, 2025

Pendulum Aquacap StayGuard

pendimethalin flumioxazin

3.1 pt/A 300 lb/A

1.47 lb ai/gal 0.375 lb ai/gal

Liquid CS Granular

3.8 lb ai/gal 0.125% w/w

A: March 18, 2025 B: May 15, 2025

Specticle Flo StayGuard

indaziflam flumioxazin

4.5 fl oz/A 300 lb/A

0.044 lb ai/gal 0.375 lb ai/gal

Liquid FL Granular

0.6 lb ai/gal 0.125% w/w

A: March 18, 2025 B: May 15, 2025

Figure 1 A – Control of Cockscomb Kyllinga

Figure 1 B – Control of Smooth Crabgrass

A l ab am a Tur f Tim es >>> S pring 2026

As herbicide options continue to evolve, having multiple PPO inhibitors available provides turfgrass managers with greater flexibility and resilience in their programs. Granular flumioxazin products, such as StayGuard, expand the range of tools available for managing difficult annual grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds in warm-season turf.

Cover Story >>> Continued

Because of its formulation, granular flumioxazin offers a practical option for sites where ease of application and turf safety are priorities. It can fit naturally into programs that already rely on spring preemergence applications, providing an additional layer of residual control. For Alabama turfgrass systems, where weed pressure is high and growing seasons are long, having an additional PPO inhibitor with a broader weed spectrum is valuable. As research continues and field observations accumulate, turf managers will be able to finetune where granular flumioxazin products make the most sense in their program. Final Thoughts. Our work with granular flumioxazin has shown strong potential for managing several challenging warm-season weeds found in Alabama. Programs incorporating Stayguard have been especially encouraging against various sedge species, smooth crabgrass, goosegrass, and doveweed. Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) control, however, has been less impressive. Because annual bluegrass remains a significant winter weed in Alabama, additional research is underway to better understand the cool-season applications of granular flumioxazin.

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Spring 2026

Acknowledgments. This research was partially funded by the Alabama Turfgrass Research Foundation.

REFERENCES Atkinson, J. L., McCarty, L. B., Yelverton, F., McElroy, S., & Bridges, W. C. (2019). Doveweed (Murdannia nudiflora) response to environmental resource availability and cultural practices. Weed Science, 67(2), 214–220. https://doi.org/10.1017/ wsc.2018.89 Bi, B., Wang, Q., Coleman, J. J., Porri, A., Peppers, J. M., Patel, J. D., Betz, M., Lerchl, J., & McElroy, J. S. (2020). A novel mutation A212T in chloroplast protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO1) confers resistance to PPO inhibitor oxadiazon in Eleusine indica. Pest Management Science, 76(5), 1694–1700. https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.5703 Dayan, F. E., Barker, A., & Tranel, P. J. (2018). Origins and structure of chloroplastic and mitochondrial plant protoporphyrinogen oxidases: Implications for the evolution of herbicide resistance. Pest Management Science, 74(10), 2226–2234. https://doi. org/10.1002/ps.4744 Heap, I. (n.d.). The International Herbicide-Resistant Weed Database. Online. Available at www.weedscience.org Johnson, B. J. (1980). Root growth of southern turf cultivars as affected by herbicides. Weed Science, 28(5), 526–528. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0043174500022311 McElroy, J.S., Yelverton, F.H., Burke, I.C., & Wilcut, J.W. (2004). Absorption, Translocation, and Metabolism of Halosulfuron and Trifloxysulfuron in Green Kyllinga (K. brevifolia) and False-Green Kyllinga (K. gracillima). Weed Science, 52(5), 704-710. https://doi.org/10.1614/WS-03-133R U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2022). Oxadiazon: Interim Registration Review Decision (Docket No. EPA-HQ-OPP-2014-0782-0151). Retrieved from https://www. regulations.gov/document/EPA-HQ-OPP-2014-0782-0151

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CARL WALL | 470-590-6856 16

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News from ATA >>>

Welcome

New Members Wesley Allen Allens Turf Care

David Hill Hills Lawn Service LLC

Lee Anderson Rock Creek Golf Club

Christopher Humphrey Major League Turfgrass LLC

Grey Blaylock Magnolia Grove Golf Course

Matthew Jayne ALM Commercial Landscaping

Zachary Bowen City of Homewood

Aaron Lang City of Decatur

Jimmy Brewer Willow Leaf Lawn Care

Alex Langford Lawnman Lawncare

Alan Gerald Broussard University of North Alabama

Jacob Lemons HomeField Turf Solutions LLC

Thomas Carroll The University Of Alabama Huntsville

David Lesnansky D&M Landscaping and Turf Management, llc

Bernard Carter Lawnkeepers

Austin Phillips EnviroSpray

Alex Casteel City of Decatur

Dennis Pritchett Prolands

Luke Cheatham Exceptional Turf Services LLC

Robby Roberts Sunbelt Golf Corp. Hampton Cove

Thomas (Van) Clack Yard Action William Clements Homewood Parks and Recreation Jordan Collum Green Tech Lawn Pro Leslie Covey Alabama Lawn Care Pros

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Spring 2026

Tyler DeKruyff Ivy Creek Land management

Scholarship WINNERS!

The

Alabama Turfgrass Association Legacy Scholarship is awarded to two students who are related to a member of the Alabama Turfgrass Association. This year the board selected the following to receive these scholarships. The deadline for the 2026 Legacy Scholarship will be August 1, 2026. You can fill out the application on our website AlabamaTurf.org under the “About Us” tab.

Chris Seal City of Decatur George Sherrill University of North Alabama Philip Skinner Homewood Parks and Recreation Harrison Smith Wicker Point Golf Club

Ty DeLoach

Tucker Smith Richter Landscape

Keith E Carleton RTJ

Joe Square Wayne's Pest Control

Todd Fortner Canetuck Turf

Jakob Stephens Homewood Parks & Rec

Ciara Griffin Waynes Pest Control

William Thompson Thompson Lawn & Landscapes LLC

David Guevara Hannah's Lawn & Landscape Service

Congratulations to our

Terhan Tinker Tinker Total Turf

Emily White Auburn University

Copeland Sherill East Mississippi Community College

Schedule of

GRASS SO GREEN THAT WE NEEDED AN EXTRA “E”

EV EN T S MARCH 31

A greener lawn is about to be easier than ever with Hydr8™ and Captiv8 PRO™. Conserve water, eliminate hot spots, and cruise through the season.

Poa annua Tournament RTJ Trail at Cambrian Ridge Greenville, AL

SEPTEMBER 15

Auburn Field Day

Soil Surfactants / Wetting Agents Available in liquid and granular forms

Healthy Turf starts with Greene County Fert. Ship Direct. Pro support always included.

GreeneCountyFert.com

Auburn University Auburn, AL

OCTOBER 6

ATA & GFSMA Sports Turf Field Day Regions Field Birmingham, AL

Riebeling Farms, Inc. CitraBlue St Augustine • Palmetto St Augustine Empire Zoysia • Centipede Sod • Delivery Available

251-943-6012

20732 Hadley Rd. • Foley, AL. 36535 OCTOBER 26 - 29

Deep South Turf Expo The Beau Rivage

BLEND

For more information and registration visit

ALABAMATURF.ORG

A l ab am a Tur f Tim es >>> S pring 2026

Biloxi, MS

Recent Event >>>

ATA Turfgrass Road Show 2026 Delivers Education Across Alabama

The

2026 ATA Turfgrass Road Show proved once again why it remains one of the most anticipated winter educational events for turfgrass professionals across our state. Hosted by the Alabama Turfgrass Association, this year’s seminar series traveled to five locations—Loxley, Dothan, Prattville, Gardendale, and Huntsville—bringing timely, research-based education directly to our members and industry partners. Designed to provide accessible, high-quality continuing education during the off-season, the Road Show offered a full day of programming focused on practical turf management solutions. From early morning registration and networking to afternoon CEU sign-outs, each stop provided valuable learning opportunities, meaningful industry interaction, and a chance to reconnect with peers from across Alabama.

Addressing Today’s Turf Challenges The day began with a deep dive into one of the most common homeowner and landscape concerns: insect pressure. Dr. David Han of Auburn University led a comprehensive session on common insect problems in home lawns. Attendees reviewed key identification characteristics of damaging pests such as grubs, chinch bugs, sod webworms, and armyworms, while also learning to distinguish beneficial species. Emphasis was placed on life cycles, monitoring, and environmentally responsible management strategies, reinforcing the importance of informed and selective insecticide use. Following insects, disease management took center stage. Dr. Amanda Scherer-Strayer, also of Auburn University, guided participants through identification and management of prevalent turfgrass diseases including dollar spot, brown patch, leaf spot, Pythium blight, fairy ring, and snow mold. The session underscored how cultural practices—mowing height, irrigation scheduling, fertility management, and cultivar selection—play a critical role in reducing disease pressure. Integrated strategies and responsible fungicide stewardship were key themes that resonated strongly with attendees. Later in the morning, Dr. Aaron Tucker presented an in-depth program on nematodes and their control. Nematodes continue to be an increasing concern across many turf settings, and this session equipped participants with tools to properly sample, interpret lab results, and implement integrated management strategies. Discussions included soil amendments, cultural practices, biological options, and the science-based use of nematicides. The practical nature of this presentation provided clarity on a topic that can often feel complex and challenging.

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >>

Industry Engagement and Collaboration Breaks and lunch periods offered more than just refreshments; they created meaningful opportunities for vendor engagement and peer connection. Sponsors played an important role in this year’s Road Show, participating in both tabletop exhibits and the popular Sponsor Spotlight session. During this fast-paced segment, industry partners delivered concise, five-minute updates highlighting new products, services, innovations, and

trends shaping the turfgrass profession. Attendees appreciated the efficient format, which provided insight into emerging tools while respecting the educational focus of the day. The afternoon concluded with a session on weed control for southern turf, presented by David Lawrence with research done by Scott McElroy, PhD. This presentation addressed identification and management of grassy, broadleaf, and sedge weeds common throughout the region. Participants gained valuable guidance on pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide selection, application timing, and resistance management—topics that are increasingly critical as herbicide resistance continues to evolve. The session reinforced the importance of proactive planning and diversified management programs tailored specifically to southern turf systems.

GROWERS OF QUALITY TURF SINCE 1987

COOSA VALLEY TURF FARMS LLC MEMBER OF

Education, CEUs, and Value In addition to the depth of educational content, the Road Show once again provided valuable continuing education opportunities. Attendees earned pesticide recertification points along with additional CEUs, ensuring that the time invested translated directly into professional advancement and compliance. The strong participation at each location reflected both the value of the programming and the commitment of our membership to ongoing professional development.

TIFWAY 419 FESCUE www.CoosaValleyTurfFarms.com (256) 927-4228 • (256) 927-4758 FAX • cvtf@tds.net 900 County Road 492 • Centre, AL 35960

Strengthening Our Industry Across the State The conversations shared during breaks, the exchange of ideas between sessions, and the collaboration between academia and industry partners all contributed to strengthening our professional network.

cilities, and every member who participated. Your engagement and dedication continue to elevate our industry and ensure that Alabama remains at the forefront of turfgrass management excellence.

The Alabama Turfgrass Association extends sincere appreciation to our speakers, sponsors, host fa-

We look forward to building on this year’s success and seeing you on the road again next winter.

A l ab am a Tur f Tim es >>> S pring 2026

Perhaps the most impactful outcome of the 2026 Road Show was the sense of connection it fostered across Alabama’s turfgrass community. By bringing education directly to multiple regions, the Association ensured that members from every corner of the state had access to current research and industry insight without extensive travel.

Start the Day with Education The event will kick off with a valuable educational session featuring Dr. Aaron Tucker, Assistant Professor at Auburn University. Dr. Tucker’s expertise and practical insight will provide attendees with relevant, research-based knowledge they can apply directly to their operations.

Upcoming Event >>>

Poa annua Classic

The

This session offers a unique opportunity to gain continuing education, ask questions, and engage with one of the industry’s leading academic voices.

Lunch, Networking & A New Course Experience

Alabama Turfgrass Association invites turfgrass professionals and industry partners from across the state to join us for one of the year’s most anticipated events — the Poa annua Classic Fundraiser on Tuesday, March 31st at the beautiful RTJ Trail at Cambrian Ridge in Greenville. Located just off I-65 in the heart of Alabama, Cambrian Ridge is a true state treasure and a fitting venue for a day dedicated to education, networking, and supporting the future of turfgrass research.

Following the educational session, attendees will enjoy lunch and time to connect with peers, vendors, and industry leaders. The Poa annua Classic is known not only for great golf, but also for fostering meaningful professional relationships that strengthen Alabama’s turfgrass community. This year’s tournament is especially exciting as ATA will host an event at Cambrian Ridge for the first time. Participants will experience the stunning layout featuring Ultradwarf Bermudagrass greens set among the scenic beauty surrounding Sherling Lake. The course design provides golfers of all skill levels multiple strategies on every hole — whether you’re playing competitively or simply enjoying the afternoon.

Follow for TURFGRASS NEWS, RESEARCH & EVENTS

Al ab ama Tu rf Tim es > >> Spring 2026

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Supporting a Vital Cause Most importantly, the Poa annua Classic is a fundraiser benefiting the Alabama Turfgrass Research Foundation (ATRF), a 501(c)(3) organization founded specifically to support research that addresses the real-world challenges facing turfgrass professionals.

ATRF-funded projects help: • Advance practical solutions for turfgrass management • Promote sustainable practices • Encourage responsible environmental stewardship • Strengthen the long-term success of Alabama’s green industry By participating, sponsoring, or supporting this event, you are directly investing in research that benefits golf courses, sports fields, sod producers, lawn care professionals, and the broader landscape industry throughout our state.

Join Us March 31st Whether you come for the education, the networking, the golf, or the cause — the Poa annua Classic delivers it all in one memorable day. Come out and support this important mission. Gain valuable insight from industry experts. Connect with fellow professionals. And enjoy a beautiful afternoon playing one of Alabama’s premier golf destinations. We look forward to seeing you at Cambrian Ridge on Tuesday, March 31st. Register online at www.AlabamaTurf.org or call us at 334-821-3000.

Index of Advertisers >>>

Coosa Valley Turf Farms.....................21 www.coosavalleyturffarms.com

Greene County Fertilizer Co...........19 www.greenecountyfert.com

Jerry Pate Turf & Irrigation.......... Inside Front Cover www.jerrypate.com

Leading Edge Communications.......13 www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com

Alabama Turf Times is the official publication of the: Alabama Turfgrass Association P.O. Box 70 Auburn, Alabama 36831 Tel: (334) 821-3000 Fax: (334) 821-3800 Email: ALturfgrass@gmail.com www.AlabamaTurf.org Published by: Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, Tennessee 37064 Tel: (615) 790-3718 Fax: (615) 794-4524 Email: info@leadingedge communications.com Executive Director Kayla Cook EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President Drew Charcandy

Legacy Turf Farms.................................. 11 www.legacyturffarms.com

North Georgia Turf Company, Inc.................................. 5 www.ngturf.com

Vice President Lee Fillingim Secretary / Treasurer Robert Mitchell Past President Patrick Pierce BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Regal Chemical Company...................9 www.regalchem.com

Riebeling Farms, Inc............................19 riebelingfarmsinc@gmail.com

Smith Seed Services..............................19 www.smithseed.com

Sod Solutions.............................................. 3 www.SodSolutionsPro.com

Southern Specialty Equipment........ 11 www.ssequip.net

Super-Sod...................................................... 7 www.supersod.com

Sur-Line Turf, Inc.................................... 11 www.surlineturf.com

At-Large Chad Warren Warren Lawn Care John David Andrus Spring-Green Lawn Care Jarron Ligon City of Daphne Lawn Care Costa Marinakis D&C Landscapes Golf Pearson Lowery Dothan Country Club Industry Bryan Scroggins Harrell’s Sod Nate Lewis Beck’s Turf Farm Institution Ben Anderson State of Alabama EX OFFICIO / EDUCATION ADVISORS

The Turf Zone...............22, Back Cover www.theturfzone.com

David Han, Ph.D. Auburn University (334) 844-3980 handavi@auburn.edu

Trimax Mowing Systems...................16 www.trimaxmowers.com

David Lawrence Alabama Cooperative Extension System (205) 646-3610 lawred@aces.edu 23

A l ab am a Tur f Tim es >>> S pring 2026

The Aquatrols Company.....................17 www.aquatrols.com

Parks & Recreation Daniel Todd City of Hoover

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