MTC Turf News - Spring 2020

SPRING 2020

TURFGRASS CULTIVATION TOOLS

WHERE, WHEN AND HOW TO USE THEM IN YOUR CULTURAL PROGRAM Plus UPDATES ON PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION

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MARYLAND TURFGRASS COUNCIL 303 S. Talbot St. #389 St. Michaels, MD 21663 ExecDir@MDTurfCouncil.com www.mdturfcouncil.org MTC Turf News is published quarterly for the MTC by: Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge St. Franklin, TN 37064 Phone: 615-790-3718 Fax: 615-794-4524 info@leadingedge communications.com

2020 MTC OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Ben Ellis – Superintendent Fort Belvoir Golf Course 2806 Brewster Rd Waldorf, MD 20601 Cell: 571-340-0122 golfturf54@gmail.com

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VICE PRESIDENT Brandon Sands MNCPPC M&D Randall Farm 4200 Ritchie Marlboro Rd Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 Office: 301-780-2426 Cell: 240-821-7139 Brandon.sands@pgparks.com

SECRETARY

20

22

Cheryl Gaultney 12 Pressie Lane Churchville, MD 21028 Home: 410-734-0650 Cell: 410-322-8275 Sandqueen10@aol.com

TREASURER

Katy Cooper 303. S. Talbot St. #389 St. Michaels, MD 21663 Office: 410-745-9643 Fax: 410-745-8867 Cell: 443-496-0750 treasurer@MDTurfCouncil.com

CONTENTS • SPRING 2020 12 FEATURE STORY Update on Recertification Requirements

14 COVER STORY Turfgrass Cultivation Tools: Where, When and How to Use Them in Your Cultural Program

DEPARTMENTS 6 8 10 20 20 22

President’s Message Executive Director’s Corner Dues Renewal and Sponsorship News from MTA (TPM) Index of Advertisers News from MTC

MTC Turf News is the Maryland Turfgrass Council magazine. Subscriptions are complimentary to MTC members. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, its board of directors, MTC Turf News, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as MTC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in any issue of MTC Turf News. Copyright © 2020 by the Maryland Turfgrass Council. MTC Turf News is published quarterly. Presorted standard postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: MTC allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to MTC. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs.

Contact the managing editor for contribution information. Advertising: For advertising rates and insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524.

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MTC TURF NEWS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Vernon Cooper All States Turf Consultants 303 S. Talbot St. #389 St. Michaels, MD 21663 Office: 410-745-9643 Cell: 443-742-6618 Fax: 410-745-8867 execdir@MDTurfcouncil.com

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Jamie Roell Anne Arundel. Co. Rec. & Parks 1010 Kinder Farm Rd. Millersville, MD 21108 Work: 410-222-6250 Cell: 443-370-2582 Fax: 410-222-6138 Personal Cell: 410-215-1425 Rproel09@aacounty.org jamroell@verizon.net

Three-Year Director Terms Perry Whaley Newsom Seed P.O. Box 510 11788 Scaggsville Rd. Fulton, MD 20759 240-554-0359 Perry@newsomseed.com

Two-Year Director Terms Keith Bowman McHale Landscape Design 6212 Leapley Rd Upper Marlboro, MD 20722 Cell: 240-375-8753 keithb@mchalelandscape.com Matt Coates Nationals Baseball 1500 S. Capitol St. S.E. Washington, DC 20003 Office: 202-640-7545 Cell: 202-731-4774 Matt.Coates@Nationals.com Shaun Meredith Calvert County Rec & Parks 175 Main Street Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Cell: 410-610-9007 Office: 410-535-1600 Shaun.Meredith@ calvertcountymd.gov

One-Year Director Terms Kim Bohn Newsom Seed 209 Spruce Ave. Edgewater, MD 21037 Cell: 443-875-5533 kimberly@newsonseed.com Amanda Stillwagon Anne Arundel Co. Rec & Parks 1 Harry S Truman Parkway Annapolis, MD 21401 Office: 410-553-7663 Cell: 704-877-8810 rpstil00@aacounty.org

Board Appointed 1 Year Directors Logan Freeman – Superintendent Mountain Branch Golf Club 1827 Mountain Rd Joppa, MD 21085 Cell: 208-866-6380 lfreeman@mountainbranch.com Pat Coakley Dura Edge Products 1121 Oakwood Lane Bel Air, MD 21015 410-241-3013 pcoakley@duraedge.com Jon Straughn – Sales Chesapeake Valley Seed 8869 Greenwood Place, Suite C Savage, MD 20763 301-725-7333 Fax: 301-725-7336 Cell: 443-253-3987 JStraughn@Chesapeake ValleySeed.com Scott Orndorff Landscape Supply 5325 Columbia Rd, Apt. D Columbia, MD 21044 301-458-5625 scott@landscapesupplyva.com

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

POSITIVE OUTLOOK O

ver the past several weeks, our world as we know it has dramatically shifted. Nearly every 10 minutes we receive a new update on the spread of the Coronavirus or about closures and shutdowns. With the turfgrass industry being affected just as everyone else, we have to stay positive!

Better Ourselves and Our Staff You remember all the notes that you took at the Maryland Turfgrass Conference or another seminar this winter? Maybe this is a good time to read back over those notes for reference. Since I am a major “Turf Nerd,” I have a notebook where I take all my rough notes from conferences and seminars and neatly rewrite them upon returning to the office. I still have notes from a talk on Turf Pest and Weed Management that was presented by Steve McDonald during the 2013 Maryland Turfgrass Conference.

It is nice to go back sometimes and freshen up on topics or talks that you may have forgotten.

Online webinars and classes have been popping up all over the internet the past few weeks. Take the time to sign up for some of them or watch a recorded presentation.

Although you may not be able to complete all of your Nutrient Management and Pesticide Re-Certifications online yet, companies that support the MTC like Landscape Supply, Genesis, Newsom Seed, Harrells, and Syngenta have some great resources and webinars for you to use until meetings and classes are able to resume.

With many golf courses and sport fields being closed for the time being, many of us are still able to maintain the property on a limited basis. This may be a good opportunity to do projects you haven’t been able to get done, take the extra time to train employees on new pieces of equipment, or look into new ways of getting the job done with a limited staff. Necessity is the start of innovation.

Turfgrass Research Another positive is that the University of Maryland Paint Branch Turfgrass Research Farm is still conducting research. Current work is being done to look at Conventional vs. Organic Maintenance Practices on Sports Turf, Bermudagrass winterkill research looking at winter moisture management with the use of wetting agents and mowing heights going into dormancy, and continued research by Mr. Joe Doherty on Improved Biological Controls for Residential Turf.

I greatly appreciate all the professional organizations who have reached out to their members to share their support and all the businesses who are able to remain open during this time. I’m proud to be a part of an industry that connects with each other on social media, email, or publications while we fight off and try to contain the Coronavirus. This is yet another positive that we can add to our list.

Ben Ellis

Maryland Turfgrass Council, President 6

MTC TURF NEWS

MTC BOARD ADVISORS

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Rick Boldissar Turf & Seed Section 50 Harry S Truman Parkway Annapolis, MD. 21401 Work: 410-841-5968 • Cell: 443-791-2896 Rick.boldissar@maryland.gov Kelly Love Pesticide Regulation 50 Harry S Truman Parkway Annapolis, MD 21401 410-841-5710 • kelly.love@maryland.gov Judy McGowan Urban Nutrient Management 50 Harry S Truman Parkway Annapolis, MD 21401 410-841-5955 • judy.mcgowan@maryland.gov

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND: DEPARTMENT OF PLANT SCIENCE & LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Dr. Mark Carroll Environmental & Pesticides 2132 Plant Science Bld. College Park, MD 20742 Campus: 301-405-1339 • Farm: 301-314-6303 mcarroll@umd.edu Dr. Thomas Turner, Professor Emeritus Turfgrass Nutrients / Extension 395 Green Meade Dr. College Park, MD 20740-3721 Farm: 301-314-6302 • tturner@umd.edu Dr. Peter Dernoeden Professor Emeritus 18086 White Oak Dr. Milton, DE 19968 301-314-6300 • pd@umd.edu David Funk Turf Farm Manager 395 Green Meade Dr. College Park, MD 20740-3721 301-314-6300 • dfunk@umd.edu Joseph Ryan Doherty Grad Student 8230 Harvest Bend Lane, Apt 38 Laurel, MD 20707 910-990-9844 • jdoherty3@umd.edu

INSTITUTE OF APPLIED AGRICULTURE: Geoffrey Rinehart Turfgrass Management 2113 Jull Hall 4196 Stadium Dr. College Park, MD 20742 301-405-4692 • rinehart@umd.edu Dr. Kevin Mathias Professor Emeritus College Park, MD • jkm@umd.edu

©2020 STIHL/MAS MA20TUIMOW-12-143734-2

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S CORNER

STAY HEALTHY AND INFORMED W

hen you get to be an old man like me with 45+ years working in Maryland Turfgrass issues you think you have seen it all, then along comes the Coronavirus Pandemic! I truly hope and pray that every single one of you, as well as your families and friends, are all surviving well and staying healthy.

The first case of the Coronavirus was reported on December 1, 2019 in Wuhan, Hubei, China as something new and very contagious, as much of the world is showing some infection in just three months. This is a brand-new strain of virus and as such authorities are not certain how it will react and how best to try to control. Authorities in this country have tried to take the more conservative route of closing schools, businesses and trying to keep people home or in small groups.

Many businesses are closed or have had to drastically change the way they do business. However, at the time of this writing, the turfgrass industry remains relatively unchanged for now. An Interpretive Guidance document (COVID 19-04), issued March 23, 2020 by the Office of Legal Counsel of Governor Hogan, clearly states that Environmental Services Companies, Arborists, and Landscapers are exempt (Section 2.b.ii). Sod farms are also exempt (Section 2.i.vi).

Past MTC President Mark Schlossberg (President, ProLawn-Plus Inc) contacted Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Bartenfelder as to the specific status of the Lawn Care Industry and the ability to maintain Golf Courses and Sports Fields. Cassie Shirk, Director of Legislation and Governmental Affairs for MDA, responded back that at this time the Lawn Care Industry is considered part of “Landscaping” under section 2.b.ii. Additionally, Golf Course Maintenance and Sports Field Maintenance are still permitted even though the Golf Courses and Sports Fields are closed at this time.

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MTC TURF NEWS

The MAAGCS along with the ESGCS, MASTMA, and the MTC are working together to get legislation or a ruling to exempt Golf Courses for play as this does not involve large groups or gatherings.

As we get additional information, we will post it on the MTC web page and e-blast it to all members we have e-mail addresses for. If you would like to read the full Interpretive Guidance Document, you can find it at:

https://governor.maryland.gov/ wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ OLC-InterpretiveGuidance-COVID19-04.pdf

Please, submit your dues today if you have not yet done so. As members we can keep you better informed. Dues and Educational Sponsor forms can be found on page 10 & 11 within this issue.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Vernon W. Cooper MTC Executive Director

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DUES RENEWAL AND SPONSORSHIP

Dues and Educational Sponsorships are Due!!

O

nce again it is time to renew or become a member of the MTC. Your MTC is the “umbrella” organization representing the entire green industry. Membership is the primary function used to raise the funds your elected Board of Directors utilize to monitor the legislative action across the State, promote turfgrass use and support Turfgrass Research and Education at the University of Maryland.

Please complete and return the combined “2020 Dues and Turfgrass Education Sponsor” form.

As MTC Members and Turfgrass Education Sponsors you too are eligible for benefits. Members get discounts at all MTC functions, plus free recertification courses for Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicator recertification classes offered by the MTC at MD locations. MD combined Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicator recertification classes sponsored by the MTC and the U of MD scheduled for 2020 can be found in the Calendar of Events in this magazine or on our web page www.MDTurfCouncil.org As a “Turfgrass Education Sponsor” your benefits increase with the level you wish to participate. This is a great opportunity to get your name in front of your peers while helping promote Turfgrass Education and Turfgrass Research.

These funds are used by the MTC to help expand Turfgrass Education, working closely with the University of Maryland Turf Programs in College Park. We are inviting YOU to become a:

2020 Patron Sponsor.

Provide a donation of whatever amount you possibly can.

We will list your company as a “Patron Sponsor” on our letterhead and web page. 2019 Patron Sponsors were J. Craver of Kenwood Golf & Country Club; D. Goodwin with Harford Co. Parks & Rec; MTA (Sod Growers Association); Larry Ott, Retired; Zenon Lis with Burlingham Seed; and Dan McKenzie.

2020 Backer Sponsor with a $250 donation.

Receive Patron benefits plus signs showing your company name at all the MTC Sponsored Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicator Recertification Classes, and other MTC events.

2019 Backer Sponsors were Central Sod Farm; Harrells LLC; & Outdoor Creations Landscape Services.

2020 Supporter Sponsor with a $500 donation.

Get “Backer Sponsor” benefits plus you will be encouraged to display a tabletop display at all the functions FREE of CHARGE (except the Turf Conference at Turf Valley).

2019 Supporter Sponsors were Landmark Turf & Native Seed; and Syngenta.

2020 Benefactor Sponsor with a $1000 donation.

Benefits of “Supporter Sponsors” plus we will list your company name on our web page linking it to your own web page and all e-blasts we do throughout the year. Additionally, you will be entitled to do a single annual advertisement blast for your company through our data base. 2019 Benefactor Sponsors were SiteOne.

2020 Advocate Sponsor with a $2500 donation.

As an “Advocate Sponsor” you will be listed on all the sponsor’s signs, be encouraged to display a tabletop display at all the functions listed on “Backer Sponsor” below FREE of CHARGE and we will list your company name on our letterhead, plus we will list your company name and web page linked to your web page on our web “Sponsors” page and all e-blasts we do throughout the year. Quarterly, we will blast an advertisement to our blast list of your choice.

Additionally, you will be entitled to exhibit FREE of CHARGE using a single booth at the “Annual Winter Turf Conference and Trade Show” at Turf Valley in Dec. 2019 Advocate Sponsors were Chesapeake Valley Seed; Genesis Turfgrass; Landscape Supply of VA; Newsom Seed. (NoteChesapeake Valley Seed and Landscape Supply of VA have once again become Advocate Sponsors for 2020.)

Please complete the combined single page, Membership Dues and Turfgrass Education Sponsor Form and return it as soon as possible. Please be generous and be a “2020 Turfgrass Education Sponsor” and help us continue supporting the University of Maryland Turfgrass Programs for years to come as the University of Maryland Turfgrass Programs continue to support us.

The MTC Dues and Sponsorship Year runs from February 1, 2020 to the following January 31, 2021.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Vernon W. Cooper MTC Executive Director

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MTC TURF NEWS

Maryland Turfgrass Council 2020 MEMBERSHIP DUES AND TURFGRASS EDUCATION SPONSOR FORM MTC Dues and Sponsor year is February 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021. Thanks for your continued support!

Name | Company Name | (Please x your choice) |

Home Address or

Company Address

Address | City | State | Zip | Email Address |

Phone Number |

TYPE OF MTC MEMBERSHIP Individual Member.................................................................................................................................................................. $50 Student/Educator/Retiree Member.......................................................................................................................................... $15 Master Gardener/Non-Profit Volunteer Member...................................................................................................................... $25 Public Agency (First 10 Employees per County or Location)*.................................................................................................. $150 Additional employees above 10.............................................................................................................................................. $15 (each) Business: • (1–5 employees)*................................................................................................................................................................ $175 (Bronze) • (6–10 employees)*.............................................................................................................................................................. $350 (Silver) • (11–15 employees)*............................................................................................................................................................ $500 (Gold) • (16 –20 employees)*........................................................................................................................................................... $1,000 (Platinum) • (21+ employees)*............................................................................................................................................................... $1,500 (Palladium) Additional Company Members: (Please list on back or attach a listing of additional members with addresses, e-mail, and phone numbers if different)*

TYPE OF TURFGRASS EDUCATION SPONSORS Advocate

Help us help the University of Maryland....................................................................................................... $2,500

Benefactor

Spread the importance of Turfgrass Education............................................................................................ $1,000

Supporter

................................................................................................................................................................... $500

Backer

(Sponsor benefits are listed on page 10)..................................................................................................... $250

Patron

(whatever amount you can help with is greatly appreciated)....................................................................... $_____________

PAYMENT TYPE Check made to MTC

(Dues and Sponsorships may be combined in a single payment) Credit Card (MC, Visa, Discover or AmEx)

TOTAL PAYMENT |

Name as it appears on credit card (if different from above) | Address where card is billed (if different from above) | Card Number |

Exp. Date |

3 or 4 digit code |

SEND TO Vernon W. Cooper, Exec. Dir. OR ExecDir@MDTurfCouncil.com Maryland Turfgrass Council Office: 410-745-9643 303 S. Talbot St. # 389 Fax: 410-745-8867 St. Michaels, MD 21663 Cell: 443-742-6618 SPRING 2020

11

FEATURE STORY

How Does Coronavirus Affect YOUR Pesticide & Fertilizer Applicator Recertification??

As

in previous years, your MTC Board planned to provide three (3) combined Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicator Recertification classes for your convenience during the Spring and Summer. They were scheduled to occur at:

• MDA Headquarters, Annapolis on March 27, 2020.

• University of MD Turf Research Farm, College Park on June 26, 2020 – Procrastinators class.

• Talbot Agriculture & Education Center, Easton on August 19, 2020 – Early Bird Class

However, for every one’s health and protection, Gov. Hogan closed many building and businesses as well as recommended no groups larger than 10 and staying 6 feet apart due to the Coronavirus. This of course makes the classes currently scheduled impossible to provide. At the same time

Gov. Hogan is allowing a 30 days grace period for you to meet any requirements to renew driver’s licenses or any other professional licenses like your Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicator licenses once the virus is controlled and we are back to normal.

This sounds very helpful, but 30 days to locate a meeting space, get a staff of presenters and get your program approved by both In-State and Out-of-State Regulators is not possible.

Therefore, to meet your needs, the MTC Board postponed the March 27 and rescheduled the class on May 15. The class will occur at MDA with registration opening at 8 and hopefully concluding by 2 with coffee, sweets and lunch included. If we are still fighting this virus, with closures still occurring, we will notify all members in early May by emails and posting on our website of another date in late June.

MDA has approved a full 8 CEU credits for MD Pesticide Recertification and 3 CEU credits for MD Fertilizer Applicator Recertification. We are also applying for CEU credits from D.C., VA, DE, PA and DNR (Tree experts license).

We still have limited space in all 3 classes so please complete the form below and fax, e-mail or US mail to the MTC Office found on page 6, today to hold your spot. Anyone who previously registered for Mar. 27 is automatically registered for the May 15 class. •

Name | Company Name | Address | City | State | Zip | Email Address | Phone | Cell | Pest Certificate # | Check made to MTC

Last 4 #Soc. Sec. | Credit Card (MC or Visa)

Fertilizer Applicator # | TOTAL PAYMENT |

Name as it appears on credit card (if different from above) | Address where card is billed (if different from above) | Card Number |

Exp. Date |

I also need to complete recertification in the following States | I also need DNR – Tree Expert License CEU | Class Desired | 12

MTC TURF NEWS

May 17

June 26

August 19

3 or 4 digit code |

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SPRING 2020

13

COVER STORY

TURFGRASS CULTIVATION TOOLS: WHERE, WHEN AND HOW TO USE THEM IN YOUR CULTURAL PROGRAM

By Barry Stewart, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Sports Turf Science, Mississippi State University

U

nlike most other crops, turfgrass soils are rarely exposed to tillage and therefore many turfgrass soils become compacted due to traffic. Our cultivation program is our best defense against soil compaction and the myriad of problems it can cause. In turfgrass, nearly everything we do — mowing, fertilizing, topdressing, rolling, playing games, etc. — happens on the horizontal plane. Turfgrass cultivation is one of the few things that happens on the vertical plane (I borrowed this from Dr. Trey Rogers at Michigan State). As we maintain and use turf soils, downward forces are applied and soil particles are pushed closer together. Soil pores, particularly macropores, are eliminated and the bulk density of the soil increases. If we think of an “ideal soil” we think of one that has 50% pore space and 50% solid space. When we consider that quartz is the dominant mineral in soils, then our ideal soil would have a bulk density of 1.33 g/cm3 given that the density of quartz is 2.65 g/cm3 (83 lbs/ft3). A bulk density range of 1.2 to 1.5 g/cm3 is a good working range for healthy turfgrass. Once bulk densities creep above 1.6 g/cm3 root growth begins to be affected and at bulk densities above 1.9 g/cm3 root growth nearly stops. Roots are not drills, they grow in the pore space, and compacted soils have less and less pore space, particularly macropore space and therefore limited root growth.

The second benefit of cultivation is the control of thatch and organic matter accumulation. In cultivation we break up the organic material accumulating at the turf surface. Sometimes the material is removed when we harvest the cores after aerifying or sweep up the clippings after we vertical mow or fraze mow. By keeping the rootzone in a favorable state of aeration, organic matter accumulation will be kept to a minimum as oxidation will proceed at its maximum rate.

As organic matter accumulates and compaction happens, the rootzone is less well-aerated and organic matter decomposition slows down and organic matter accumulation increases. This leads to more moisture being held in the soil making it more vulnerable to compaction, and we begin on a downward spiral in which turf cover is lost. Topdressing is another tool in this

14

MTC TURF NEWS

battle with organic matter accumulation and will be the subject of a future article.

This article is written with warm season grasses in mind.

The need for cultivation will vary with grass type and soil type. In general, native soils have a greater need for cultivation than sand-based soils. It is ironic that sand-based turf is more likely to receive cultivation than a native soil, but this is probably not surprising given the cost to establish and maintain grass on sand construction. Bermudagrass and zoysiagrass make up the vast majority of sport turf surfaces and require more cultivation. Some St. Augustine and centipede grass that receives traffic may also need occasional cultivation, but this should be done carefully. To ensure rapid recovery from any cultural practice mowing, make sure we have temperatures favorable for turf growth, 70 degree nights or “150 days” (meaning days where the daily high plus the daily low equals 150) with plenty of water available.

FIGURE 1: An old school rolling aerifier. Still working but the technology has improved greatly over the years.

Core Cultivation / Hollow Tine Cultivation Hollow tine cultivation is the cornerstone of any cultivation program. It should be a “showstopper” in that it should be a scheduled event. My mind’s picture of the benefit of core cultivation is that as our turfgrass soil becomes compacted, the elevation of our surface would decline. When we pull cores, we create a new large pore (the hole) and bring material back to the surface. As the cores are broken up and drug back into the holes not all of the material will fit into the holes and some will remain on the surface adding elevation to the surface. If the cores are collected and new material is topdressed onto the site, it is likely that enough material will be added to provide an increase in surface elevation.

Core cultivation equipment has come a long way since John Mascaro introduced the first vertical overhead aerifier in the 1940’s. Prior to this the tool of choice was a rolling aerifier (Figure 1). Modern aerification equipment works smoothly and feature a wide range of tine diameters to choose from. Core diameter can range from 5 mm to 25 mm. Working depths can range from 25 mm to 250 mm (Figure 2).

Depths longer than about 4 inches (100 mm) are considered to be “deep tine” aerification. After the introduction of aerifiers it was found that compacted cultivation pans began to form after several years of aerification at the same depth.

Incorporating deep tine aerification into a program occasionally breaks up this pan and keeps it from becoming problematic. Hole spacing can range from 1 inch x 1 inch (25 mm x 25 mm) to 6 inch by 6 inch (150 mm x 150 mm) and is determine by spacing on the machine and ground speed. In general as tine size decreases so does tine spacing. It would be reasonable to pull 3/8 inch (9 mm) cores on 1 inch centers but

FIGURE 2: An aerifier working on at the MSU Golf Course.

unreasonable to pull then on 6 inch centers, likewise pulling 3/4 inch cores on 1 inch by 1 inch centers is unreasonable.

Solid Tine Cultivation Solid tine cultivation produces a hole but does not remove a core. As the walls of the hole created slough off and fill the hole with time, compaction is relieved and a zone of better aeration is created. Solid tine cultivation can be a very valuable tool in loosening up severely compacted areas to allow hollow tine coring. Solid tine cultivation improves soil aeration but does not remove any material from the profile therefore it has a minimal effect on thatch and organic matter accumulation.

It does break up layering and improves infiltration and drainage. The larger the tine the longer lasting the effect will be.

Solid tining has the advantage of no cores to process and no clean up. The fields or greens are immediately playable.

It is debatable whether or not topdressing should follow solid tining. Topdressing will smooth out the surface and fill the holes which could aid playability, however we are also adding material to our soil profile which means we increased our soils density. Perhaps as a once in a while practice this may be allowable but this should not be an every time practice.

Also some hollow tining must be incorporated into this process to remove some material.

We did an experiment to examine aerification frequency on the MSU Golf Course in 2002 (Table 1). We used six treatments and replicated each on three greens. We used 6 inch (L) x 1/2 inch tines. We found solid tining twice monthly in two directions reduced greens hardness the most. There was not a great amount of separation among these treatments.

TABLE 1: Results of a study on golf greens at the MSU Golf Course in 2002.

TREATMENT

MEAN HARDNESS VALUE *

(Values decrease moving down the table)

Solid tine 1 x year

112 a

Solid tine 2 x year

103 ab

Hollow tine 1 x year

102 ab

Solid tine 1 x monthly

100 ab

Solid tine 2 x monthly

93 bc

Solid tine 2 x monthly 2 directions

86 c

* mean hardness values followed by the same letter are not different at the 0.05 level of significance

SPRING 2020

15

COVER STORY • continued

Vertical Mowing Vertical mowing is a cultivation tool that is more focused on thatch and organic matter accumulation than on improving the physical condition of the soil, although it does have an effect on breaking up layering near the surface. Vertical mowing equipment ranges from greens equipment with thin blades and narrow spacing to larger area models with thicker blades and wider spacings. Think of circular saw blades. These blades spin into the canopy and remove material as well as severing stolons and rhizomes (Figure 3). Working depths can range from a surface tickle to about 1 inch in depth.

Deep depths generate more material that must be removed to make our surface playable again. Vertical mowing is often followed by topdressing to smooth out the surface. During the growing season some golf greens are lightly vertically mown and topdressed weekly to control grain and organic matter accumulation. Fairways and athletic fields would benefit from vertical mowing once or twice during the growing season. To ensure rapid recovery from vertical mowing, make sure we have temperatures favorable for turf growth, 70 degree nights or “150 days” (meaning days where the daily high plus the daily low equals 150) with plenty of water available.

FIGURE 3: A fairway / athletic field vertical mower ready to go to work.

Fraze Mowing Fraze mowing is much like vertical mowing except that fraze mowing completely removes all surface materials to a set depth. Fraze mowing can be used to just remove the verdure and the thatch/mat layer or as deep as 2 inches below the soil surface. The material removed flows onto a conveyor belt and is deposited in a debris wagon for disposal (Figure 4).

In many cases the material removed is a fantastic source of springs that could be used to plant or renovate a nearby field.

Fraze mowing generates large amounts of clippings/spoils that must be disposed and planning for that should be part of the process. Fraze mowing will remove surface layering, thatch and accumulated soil organic matter. The regrowth from fraze mowing can take as little as 21 days to as long as six weeks. In Matt Carpenter’s research (Carpenter, 2019) on fraze mowing at MSU we found that fraze mowing was very effective in removing overseeding in the month of May. Fraze mowing was also found to be an effective way to establish overseeding in the fall, with a mid-October date being most effective. Keep in mind that a field will not be playable for at least 3 weeks following fraze mowing. Fraze mowing may not be an every-year tool but certainly one to consider occasionally as a field renovation. Fraze mowing produces a clean new surface that is free of senescent leaves for a few weeks and during that time the field looks outstanding. Fraze mowing has proven to be very effective in removing a dead surface in the renovation process. Some fraze mowing equipment such as The Turf Plane have the ability to level while they fraze mow. These machines have great utility in removing lips on baseball and softball fields as well as helping to maintain field smoothness (Figure 5).

16

MTC TURF NEWS

FIGURE 4: A fraze mower removing dead bermudagrass for the resurfacing of Davis Wade Stadium at MSU

FIGURE 5: Leveling fraze mower removing a lip from an infield.

Planted By Leading Sod Growers All Over America

Black Beauty Sod pictured top left: Johnson Sod Farms, Deerfield, NJ. Top right: SelecTurf Sod Farm, Jefferson City, MO. Center: Sodco Sod Farm, (Black Beauty sod flags,) Slocum, RI. Bottom left: A & W Southern Sod, Springfield, TN. Bottom right: Saratoga Sod Farm, Stillwater, NY.

Jonathan Green’s Black Beauty Tall Fescue grass seed varieties produce a superior looking turf that is dark-green, deeply rooted, insect resistant and disease tolerant. But don’t take our word for it. Just ask the vast array of sod growers that grow Black Beauty across the country.

SUPERIOR GRASS SEED PRODUCTS

Michael Vanden Bosch: 732-804-1743 / mvande@jonathangreen.com Barry Green II: 908-217-0818 / 800-526-2303 x202 / bgreenii@jonathangreen.com Keith Reilly: 732-804-6787 / kreilly@jonathangreen.com

COVER STORY • continued

Rotary De-compaction

Sand Injection

I think of these machines as being the parabolic plows and deep ripping subsoilers that are used to remove compaction pans from agricultural fields. These machines are beginning to be used more to remove compaction from fairways and athletic fields. A blade that is 10 to 12 inches long is rotated into the soil and the arrangement of the blades along the shaft produces a quaking action as the machine moves forward (Figure 6). The result is a continuous slit in the soil on 8 to 12 inch spacings. They do very little to remove thatch but do loosen up a surface. Research is needed to document the compaction relief achieved and the longevity of this relief.

Some companies have equipped these machines to a sand hopper to inject sand into the slits. This will allow the slits to stay open for a longer period of time and remain effective longer. Using one of these machines perpendicular to the crown on an athletic field may be a way to enhance internal drainage.

These machines (such as the Dri-ject) have the old Toro Hydroject in their lineage. High pressure water is used to create a hole and the hole is then filled with dry sand or other dry soil amendments (Figure 7). These machines are mostly used on golf greens but larger models are available for athletic field and fairway use. Although these devices do offer some compaction relief, the sand injection is also used to tighten up golf greens after hollow tine aerification. The sand injection also offers a small amount of thatch/ soil organic matter control via dilution. Similar to solid tine aeration followed by topdressing, a hole is being made and filled with material and no material is being removed. Frequent use of this tool without pulling a core at some point should lead to an increase in bulk density. In a Dryject study on athletic fields done at Mississippi State, Drijection five times per season and hollow tining two times per season increased bulk densities compared to hollow tining alone (Craft, 2015).

FIGURE 6: The knives of a Redexim Shockwave. This machine makes continuous slits in the soil while quaking the soil in between the knives.

FIGURE 8: An example of a slicer / spiker machine.

FIGURE 7: Driject machine working at the MSU Golf Course.

18

MTC TURF NEWS

continued • COVER STORY

Slicers and Spikers These machines produce small holes or slits in the soil in a linear pattern. They do not have much effect on removing compaction or removing thatch. They do create holes and slits that allow the soil to breathe a bit until they are closed by traffic (Figure 8). These machines can be used frequently and there is often little to no recovery time or disruption in play. They are a good tool in the spring transition to do some “venting” and can also be used in the establishment of overseeding. The MSU Campus landscape department has an Aerovator that is often used ahead of fall overseeding. The first seeds to germinate are usually the ones in the holes created by this implement. They are also a good tool to use to open up the canopy. These machines cover a lot of ground quickly and can be used fairly frequently.

then vertical mowing or fraze mowing should be considered.

If compaction is the main problem solid time aerification or rotary decompaction may be of benefit. Develop a program that works for you and stick to it. The results will be healthier soils and healthier turf. •

References Craft, J.M. 2016. Maintaining soil physical property integrity in turfgrass management systems. MS Thesis, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS

Carpenter, Matt, 2019. Fraze mowing for overseeding establishment and removal of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) MS Thesis, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS

To reiterate, hollow tine coring is the backbone of a cultivation program and at least one if not two coring events should take place most years. Make this event a “showstopper.” In addition to the coring event there are many other cultivation tools that are less disruptive and can be used more frequently. If thatch and organic matter are a problem,

Prosperity begins here.

No one knows keeping things green quite like you. Now with even broader resources and capabilities, your Nutrien Solutions location is even more equipped to help you become a more capable growing professional than ever. nutrienagsolutions.com

For support, please contact your local representative.

Tom Walsh MD/Northern VA 410-375-7226 tom.walsh@nutrien.com

Fred Heinlen Eastern Shore 443-669-4284 fred.heinlen@nutrien.com

Harry Kenney DE, MD/Northern VA 410-375-6148 harry.kenney@nutrien.com

SPRING 2020

19

NEWS FROM MTA (TPM)

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

“NO MORE CONFUSION?”

Beam Clay........................................................23

B

ack in 1962, a group of sod farmers with assistance of the MD State Board of Agriculture and the University of Maryland saw a need for a unified voice and increased education opportunities so they formed the Maryland Turfgrass Association (MTA).

Ten years later, the need was recognized that we were a small group when speaking to legislatures on issues important to everyone in turfgrass. Additionally, we were duplicating a number of educational opportunities as well as taxing our University staff, so with the Mid Atlantic Association of Golf Course Superintendents (MAAGCS) we created an “umbrella organization” for all turfgrass industries and called it the Maryland Turfgrass Council (MTC). The MTC is open to all Turfgrass Professionals in Maryland including Sod Farms, Golf Courses Superintendents and their crews, Lawn Care companies, Landscapers, Sports Turf Manger and crews, Municipalities and any other Turfgrass Professional.

However, it was not long before the confusion began between the MTA and the MTC. Members of both organizations often confused dues payments between the two organizations. Similarly, our members and customers were unable to find information because unknowingly they were searching the wrong website. For example, homeowners were calling or searching the MTC website in an attempt to order sod.

A little over two years ago, the MTA Board of Directors decided to resolve the confusion. After much research and debate, the membership of the MTA has successfully voted to become “The Turfgrass Producers of Maryland” (TPM).

At the same time, we became the first State Chapter of the Turfgrass Producers International. As a chapter member we are part of the world’s largest association for turfgrass producers and industry suppliers.

The purpose of the TPM is to promote and provide quality turfgrass production in the state of Maryland; to exchange scientific and practical knowledge relating to improved methods of sod production, marketing and installation, at the same time encouraging cooperation with other associations whose interests parallel or complement those of the TPM. So, in the months to come, the MTA will be disbanded and the TPM will be fully up and running with a new and updated web page.

Active Membership in the TPM is open to all Maryland sod growers and Associate Membership is available to outof-state producers and all industry suppliers. If you would like to join us or have any questions or need other assistance, please feel free to contact me. •

Turfgrass Producers of Maryland, Inc. “SAVE THE BAY – SOD TODAY”

Vernon W. Cooper Exec. Dir. 303 S. Talbot St. #389 • St. Michaels, MD 21663 Office: 410-745-9643 • Cell: 443-742-6618 Fax: 410-745-8867 • E-Mail: Vernon@AllStatesTurf.com 20

MTC TURF NEWS

www.BEAMCLAY.com • www.PARTAC.com

Bloom Soil..........................................................9 www.bloomsoil.com

Buy Sod, Inc............................. Inside Back Cover www.buysod.com

Collins Wharf Sod Farm....................................23 www.collinswharfsod.com

East Coast Sod & Seed.....................................23 www.eastcoastsod.com

Fisher & Son Company, Inc.................................3 www.fisherandson.com

Jonathan Green................................................17 www.jonathangreen.com

Kesmac............................................................21 www.brouwerkesmac.com

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

Luck Ecosystems................................................5 www.luckecosystems.com

Mid-Atlantic STIHL..............................................7 www.stihldealers.com

Nutrien Solutions..............................................19 www.nutrienagsolutions.com

Progressive Turf Equipment Inc........................13 www.progressiveturfequip.com

Shady Oaks Turf Farm......................................23 www.shadyoaksturffarm.com

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

Summit Hall Turf Farm, Inc................. Back Cover www.summithall.com

The Turfgrass Group.................Inside Front Cover www.theturfgrassgroup.com

To discuss advertising opportunities, contact Leading Edge Communications:

615-790-3718 888-707-7141 ( TOLL FREE )

sales@leadingedgecommunications.com www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com

NEWS FROM MTC

CUSTOM MADE QUILT for Turfgrass Research at U.M.D.

The

“GRASSES” quilts raffles have been a real boost to the Universities Research Programs so our MTC Treasurer, Katy, has designed and created yet another for this year. It is 50" X 63". Tickets will be sold at all the MTC Recertification Events and of course at the Annual Winter Conference, December 9th at Turf Valley.

Additionally, you can send the form below to the MTC Office and your ticket will be mailed to you anytime before the conference. You need not be present to win. Purchase may be by credit card, check (made out to MTC or cash (in person – please do not mail cash). •

THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK!

1 TICKET ($10.00)

3 TICKETS ($20.00)

Name | Address | City | State | Zip | Phone | Check made to MTC

Credit Card (MC, Visa, Discover, or AmEx)

TOTAL PAYMENT |

Name as it appears on credit card (if different from above) | Address where card is billed (if different from above) | Card Number |

Exp. Date |

3 or 4 digit code |

SEND TO Maryland Turfgrass Council 303 S. Talbot St. # 389 St. Michaels, MD 21663 22

MTC TURF NEWS

Office: 410-745-9643 Fax: 410-745-8867 E-Mail: ExecDir@MDTurfCouncil.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

May 15 Postponed from March 27 Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicators License Recertification

800-247-BEAM www.BEAMCLAY.com

Maryland Department of Agriculture Headquarters Building – Annapolis, MD

June 26 Procrastinators Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicators License Recertification University of Maryland Turf Research Farm College Park, MD

STATE APPROVED CO-OP PRICING

email: sales@beamclay.com

THE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE FOR INFIELD MIXES, MOUND CLAYS & RED WARNING TRACKS OVER 5,000 INFIELD & SPORTS PRODUCTS

August 19 Eastern Shore Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicators License Recertification Talbot Agriculture & Education Center Easton, MD

December 8 Maryland Turfgrass Conference and Trade Show Turf Valley Resort – Ellicott City, MD Please visit us at mdturfcouncil.org for all the latest event information.

MTC SPONSORS

Maryland Turfgrass Council would like to thank our 2020 Turfgrass Educational Sponsors for their support!

D I G I T A L M A R K E T P L A CE DOWNLOAD YOUR FAVORITE QR READER TO YOUR PHONE AND SCAN THE CODE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE COMPANIES.

ADVOCATE SPONSORS Chesapeake Valley Seeds Genesis Turfgrass Landscape Supply, Virginia Newsom Seed BENEFACTOR SPONSOR SiteOne Landscape Supply SUPPORTER SPONSOR Neudorff USA / Fiesta Herbicide BACKER SPONSOR Central Sod Farms Outdoor Creative Landscape Service PATRON SPONSOR Harford Co. Parks & Recreation Larry Ott – Retired TPM (Sod Growers) For details on how to become a Turfgrass Educational Sponsor, turn to page 10.

SPRING 2020

23

NEWS FROM MTC • continued

GUY F. MCDONALD June 16, 1954 – April 3, 2020 (age 65)

G

uy F. McDonald, 65, of Dolgeville, New York, passed away unexpectedly in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. He was born on June 16, 1954 in Rochester, New York and was the son of the late, John and Juanita (Strum) McDonald. Guy attended Edison Technical and Industrial High School in Rochester, New York and graduated with the Class of 1972.

On June 5, 1976, Guy was united in marriage to the former, Rose Ann DiMarco at St. Theodore’s Catholic Church in Rochester, New York. The couple shared a blessed union of 44 years and raised their two sons in a loving home.

At the age of 21, Guy enlisted in the United States Air Force on May 22, 1975.

He started his career as an air craft mechanic and was promoted to Presidential Maintenance with Air Force One as a member of the Presidential crew. After 20 years of service to his country, Guy retired honorably on May 31, 1995 from the United States Air Force.

After his military service, Guy attended the University of Maryland at College Park, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Institute of Applied Agriculture. He earned an Associates Degree in Turf Grass Maintenance and graduated with honors.

In 2013, Guy and his wife, Rose Ann, moved to Dolgeville, New York from Maryland, as Guy took a position at Lowe’s as a Plumbing Professional where he worked seasonally. During the summer, Guy was the Superintendent of Grounds Maintenance for Mohawk Valley Country Club. He was a member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association.

Guy’s passion was the golf course, playing golf, spending time with his family, playing with his grandchildren, he was a great backyard smoker, and people said nobody beat Guy’s meat. His smile was contagious along with his laugh, and could make anyone smile.

Guy is survived by his beloved wife, Rose Ann McDonald at home; two sons, Anthony J. McDonald and his wife, Lucy of Rochester, NY and Jason M. McDonald of Dolgeville, NY; three grandchildren, Jason M. McDonald, II, Jack F. McDonald both of OK, and Jasmyn McDonald of MD; two step-grandchildren, David Ellis of Rochester, NY and Cassidy Senefelder, of Pittsburgh, PA; two sisters, Sharon Edwards and her husband, James of Tega Cay, SC and Shelley Joseph of Rochester, NY; his best friend, Rob Hall of Dolgeville, NY; several brothers and sisters in law; nieces and nephews; his dog, Baxter and two cats, Cuddles and Dyson.

He was predeceased by his parents, his mother and father-in-law, Anthony and Irene DiMarco, two brothers, Tom McDonald and David McDonald; and his beloved border collie of 15 years, Phoebe.

The family has decided that they will have a Celebration of Life at a later time in the year to honor Guy at a time and day to be announced, where he will receive his Military Honors, due to the circumstances with the current situation. The family of Guy F. McDonald is being cared for by Miller-Plonka Funeral Home, 30 Wolf Street, Dolgeville, New York 13329. •

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MTC TURF NEWS

TO ALL MARYLAND TURFGRASS PROFESSIONALS:

It

is with deep sadness that I inform you of the passing of Eugene “Gene” Bowie Roberts, Jr. (October 16, 1939 – April 18, 2020).

Gene was honored to have been involved in the Maryland Turfgrass Association representing Fairwood Turf Farm, serving the entire turfgrass industry as a member of the Maryland Turfgrass Council Board as a Directors, and was one of the early Turfgrass Representatives on the Maryland Agriculture Commission.

As a member of what ever organization he was involved in, Gene always provide an insightful and beneficial decisions, thoughts and actions.

Gene was a good friend to the Turfgrass industry and was friends with his fellow Turfgrass Professionals, even his competition.

A small private family service is planned for Tuesday, April 28.

A “Celebration of Life” will occur once it is safe together.

Condolences by e-mail may be sent to Gene’s lovely wife Lynn Roberts at Antiquelynn@hotmail.com Or his daughter Anne C.B. Roberts at anne.cb.roberts@gmail.com Cards and U.S. Mail can be sent to 4700 Old Crain Highway, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 •

NEWS FROM MTC

THE

JIM CLAXTON SCHOLARSHIP FUND ADMINISTERED BY THE TURFGRASS PRODUCERS OF MARYLAND

CALL FOR APPLICANTS

The

Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund was initiated during the Spring of 2011 in order to honor Jim and his contributions to the Mid-Atlantic area turfgrass industry and financially support students pursuing a college degree.

Jim worked as a salesman for Newsom Seed from the early 1990’s until soon before his passing on March 20, 2013. He made great contributions to turfgrass related businesses during this period, especially businesses involved in turf production.

The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund allows for a single, annual $500.00 reward to be issued to a winning applicant prior to the fall college semester.

Last year’s winner was

SARA LECHLIDER! Written requests for applications for The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund, as well as completed applications, with all essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts, etc. should be postmarked and mailed no later than May 31, 2020.

APPLICATIONS CAN BE MAILED TO:

Turfgrass Producers of Maryland 303 S. Talbot St #389 St. Michaels, MD 21663 Attention: The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund And/or: email address of TPM Executive Director at:

Vernon@AllStatesTurf.Com and email address of TPM Scholarship Chairman at: Harry.Kenney@cpsagu.com

In addition to a possible interview with one or more Turfgrass Producers of Maryland Board Members, the following criteria will be considered by the TPM board while deciding who will be awarded this scholarship: •T he applicant should be a current high school senior or be enrolled in a full time two-year Associate Degree or four-year Bachelor Degree college or university program. Proof of college or university enrollment in an Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree program may be requested by the TPM board.

•T he applicant should reside in the Mid-Atlantic area or be enrolled in a college or university located in the Mid-Atlantic area.

•T he applicant should have earned a high school or current college level GPA of at least 2.5. A transcript should be submitted along with the application.

•P reference may be given to students enrolled in a turfgrass related field.

•P reference may be given to students with experience in turf production and/or turf maintenance.

•W e ask that you provide an essay of one page or less, using 12 point Times New Roman or equivalent with a one-inch margin. The essay can include how you intend to utilize your Associate or Bachelor degree.

•A current high school and/or college level transcript and up to three letters of recommendation can be submitted with the completed application.

SPRING 2020

25

THE JIM CLAXTON SCHOLARSHIP FUND ADMINISTERED BY TURFGRASS PRODUCERS OF MARYLAND

APPLICANT INFORMATION Last Name |

First Name |

Date of Birth |

Gender

Middle Initial |

Female

Male

US Citizen

Y

If not a United States Citizen, list your type of legal United States residency | Current Address | City | State | Zip | Cell Phone |

Home Phone |

Current or Intended Field of College Level of Study | College or University you will be attending this fall | Address | City | State | Zip | Will you be taking 12 or more credit hours this coming semester?

Y

N

List any academic awards, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, etc. that you would like to be considered for this scholarship.

Signature of Applicant | Date |

26

MTC TURF NEWS

N

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAY WITH www.BUYSOD.com

Neil Jones, Territory Manager – Virginia & Eastern NC njones@buysod.com • 910-975-0002