North Carolina Turfgrass - July / August 2023

WHEN

It’s Time to Renew Your TCNC Membership

It's

that time of year, everyone! Unless you have just joined us in the last few months, now is the time to renew your TCNC membership.

I want to take this opportunity to remind you of your membership benefits but also tell you about a few new things happening with TCNC.

The Turfgrass Council of North Carolina provides numerous valuable benefits to its members. These benefits primarily come in many forms to help support the turfgrass industry in North Carolina. This, in turn, helps secure livelihoods working in the industry.

A key benefit the Council offers is Legislative Support.

Your membership provides the opportunity for TCNC to act as your voice on important issues like water allocation/use, pesticide & fertilizer use, taxation of services, H-1B Regulations, noise ordinance laws and so many others. This benefit is primarily enacted through the North Carolina Green Industry Council (NCGIC). By being a member of TCNC, you are a member of NCGIC. This Council is critical as it unites all green industry associations and constituents to:

• Represent and protect members’ legislative interests

• Promote the value of green industry products and services

• Advocate for the green industry as a leader of environmental stewardship

Be on the lookout for email communications about the upcoming Water Symposium being hosted by NCGIC in late July or visit www.ncgreenindustrycouncil.org

The next benefit I hope you are utilizing is Education.

TCNC provides opportunities for CEUs throughout the year such as the TCNC Educational Conference, where the latest research is provided, and through our partnership with NC State University you can receive a discount on the NC State Turfgrass Field Day. Check out page 10 for more information on this and be sure to take advantage of TCNC’s special $10 pricing

Just this year, TCNC started hosting member meet-ups - where members could network and learn from other members. Hopefully you participated in these. If not, be on the lookout for more information about the next gathering.

Lastly, TCNC is the only association that facilitates the North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Professional certification (NCCTP). Being an NCCTP gives you professional credibility allowing you to stand out from your competitors. You can only be an NCCTP if you are a TCNC member.

On top of all that, your membership allows TCNC to provide research funding through NC Turfgrass Foundation, trade magazine, scholarship funding for qualified turfgrass students through the Eagle Foundation and discounted Workers Compensation Insurance through First Benefits.

Hopefully you agree that the cost of membership is greatly offset by the value of these benefits.

TCNC has been here for you since 1974 and great appreciates your continued support.

Kevin Herrmann

TCNC President

North Carolina Turfgrass is the official publication of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina

P.O. Box 641

Wake Forest, NC 27588 984.301.6450

www.turfgrasscouncilnc.org

CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER

Marcy Cottle info@turfgrasscouncilnc.org 984.301.5460

Published by:

Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, TN 37064 615.790.3718

Fax 615.794.4524

info@leadingedgecommunications.com

TCNC OFFICERS

PRESIDENT

Kevin Herrmann Fairway Green Inc. Raleigh, NC

VICE PRESIDENT

Wilson Sutton

Emerald Golf Club New Bern, NC

PAST PRESIDENT

Gene Queen Nature's Select Winston-Salem, NC

TREASURER

Jonathan Richardson, NCCTP NCCTP Chairman Green Resource Dunn, NC

DIRECTORS

Brian Beane Southern Turf Winston-Salem, NC

Greg Harris Leap Frog Land Care, Inc. Cary, NC

Shaun Kerr Gates Four Golf and Country Club Fayetteville, NC

Years ago, LSU decided to move to Celebration® Bermudagrass across its sports facilities. Over the years, the athletic grounds staff has installed Celebration on the soccer, softball, baseball, practice fields and the crown jewel, football’s Tiger Stadium. Across the maintenance spectrum for Celebration, the LSU grounds staff have been innovators. They continue to produce a championship product year in and year out.

“For us at LSU, all the athletic fields that we compete on are all Celebration. So the (football) stadium, softball, soccer, our practice facilities, Alex Box, our baseball stadium, they’re all Celebration as well. Celebration for us just works and it’s a good fit.”

– Trevor Austin – LSU Sports Turf Manager

Companies wishing to support TCNC with multiple members can join as Deluxe Members. Deluxe Memberships can be purchased in one of three tiers: 1–5 employees; 6–10 employees; or 11+ employees.

If you'd like to learn more about the Deluxe Membership, please contact the TCNC office at 984.301.6450 or info@turfgrasscouncilnc.org.

Thank You to Our DELUXE MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS

Barefoot Lawn Care Inc.

Canopy Lawn Care

Carol Woods Retirement Community

Carolina Farm Credit

Carolina Green Corp

City of Asheville

Parks and Rec

City of Raleigh

Parks & Recreation

Country Boy Landscaping Inc

Divots, Inc.

Emerald Green Inc.

Fairway Green

Fayetteville Technical

Community College

Green Resource

Horizon Distributors

Keith Hills Country Club

Leap Frog Landcare, Inc.

McConnell Golf LLC

CROP AND SOIL SCIENCES

Matt Martin Extension Associate 910.409.5899 matthew_martin@ncsu.edu

Dr. Travis Gannon Assistant Professor 919.515.2647 travis_gannon@ncsu.edu

Emily Erickson Crop Science Lecturer 919.513.2034 emily_erickson@ncsu.edu

Murrays Landscape Services

Nature's Select Premium Turf Services

Quality Turf Sod Solutions, Inc.

Southern Ag

Southern Garden, Inc.

Southern Seeds Inc.

Southern Turf

Tee Goal

The Biltmore Company

Town of Cary Public Works

Town of Garner

Triangle Turf and Ornamentals

Turf Mountain Sod Inc

UNC-Chapel Hill

Vandemark Farms, LLC

Wake Forest University

Weed Man

2022 – 23 Renewal as of 3/31/2023

Don't see your company's name?

Renew today at www.turfgrasscouncilnc.org

Dr. Susana Milla-Lewis Professor & University Faculty Scholar 919.280.3443 susana_milla-lewis@ncsu.edu

Dr. Grady Miller Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5656 grady_miller@ncsu.edu

Dr. Charles Peacock Professor and Director of Crop Science 919.906.1324 charles_peacock@ncsu.edu

Dr. Rob Richardson Associate Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5653 rob_richardson@ncsu.edu

Dr. Wei Shi Professor 919.513.4641 wei_shi@ncsu.edu

Dr. Fred Yelverton Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5639 fred_yelverton@ncsu.edu

Dr. Terri Billeisen Extension Associate 919.515.7464 tlhoctor@ncsu.edu

Dr. Rick Brandenburg Extension Leader 919.515.8876 rick_brandenburg@ncsu.edu

ENTOMOLOGY AND PLANT PATHOLOGY HORTICULTURE SCIENCE

Lee Butler NC State Turf Diagnostics Lab 919.513.3878 ebutler@ncsu.edu

Dr. James Kerns Professor and Extension Specialist 919.513.4820 jpkerns@ncsu.edu

Dr. Danesha Seth Carley Director, Southern IPM Center & Associate Professor 919.513.8189

danesha_carley@ncsu.edu

www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/people/

SC Growers of the Highest Quality Turf

Palisades Zoysia, Royal Zoysia, Chisholm Zoysia, Bermuda Tifway 419 Diamond Zoysia, Carolina Blue II Fescue, Cen�pede, Palme�o St. Augus�ne and TamStar St. Augus�ne

• Turf Maintenance Support and Supplies

• Mulches and Other Bulk Materials

• Natural Stone

• Pavers and Wall Systems

Aiken Charleston Duncan Summerville Anderson Columbia Rock Hill

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Mark Tamn, NCCTP Lynn Tamn

MEMBERS SINCE 2011

Why did you join TCNC?

Being a member of TCNC has helped to enhance my awareness of local issues, up to date regulatory developments that effect my business, and local turfgrass workshops that have been beneficial for myself and for my past employees.

What do you love most about TCNC?

The TCNC is a solid partner with the faculty of NC State University Turfgrass departments. Being a member of TCNC has helped me to keep up with the latest agronomic research in turfgrass management as well as plant and soil science.

How has your career benefited from being a member?

One of the first things I did upon joining TCNC was to take the North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Professional exam. (NCCTP) I believe this is a valuable accolade for all turfgrass managers as it illustrates a high degree of turfgrass knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to the turfgrass industry.

What is your favorite TCNC Event and why?

The regional turfgrass conferences and seminars provide valuable information for all turfgrass professionals and offer an opportunity to acquire continuing education units toward their licensing.

What’s one thing — either industry / work-related or not — you learned in the past month?

Although I am still doing a little consulting, I retired this past January after working in the Turfgrass industry/green care industry for over the 47 years. Soon after finishing school for plant and soil science and turfgrass management in the

mid-seventies, I began my career as a turfgrass technician with a national company. I was eventually promoted to branch manager and then director of franchise training. Those were really infant years for professional lawncare, but working in the Columbus Ohio market which even back then was a mature lawn care market, I learned a great deal. In the early eighties I opened a successful lawncare business which grew tremendously over the following 10 years. After selling that business, I worked for a national company as a regional agronomist for a few years. I also had the opportunity and good fortune to have a gardening book published, teach horticulture at a local community college, and have a lawn and gardening radio show for three years while developing and growing my Freedom Lawns USA and Freedom Franchises business. What I have learned in recent months since retiring is that the lawncare industry is a wonderful industry and has been very good to me and to my family over the years and that in this industry- you never stop learning! My hope is that more young people will pursue a career in the turfgrass industry.

How do you define success in

the Turf business?

Most folks measure success in terms of revenue. Of course, all business owners naturally work toward growing a business that is profitable. Thats why we make the commitment and sacrifices to be entrepreneurs. However, I found that my greatest feeling of success was in teaching and encouraging others such as my former employees and franchise owners to work hard, always do your very best, and above all, perform your work with the highest level of honesty and integrity. If you practice these steps, the money will certainly follow.

What’s one skill you’d like to develop or sharpen this year?

Transitioning from the many years of operating a business day to day, to enjoying a fulfilling retirement.

Founders of Freedom Franchises and Freedom Lawns (retired)

SOD

PRODUCERS’

2023 REPORT

By Grady Miller Professor, Turfgrass Management Crop and Soil Sciences, North Carolina State University

InApril 2023, North Carolina State University conducted the eighth annual survey to examine the inventory and pricing of North Carolina sod.

Overview

• The supply of bermudagrass sod is expected to be worse in 2023 compared to 2022, with nearly half of producers expecting shortages.

• The supply of zoysiagrass is expected to be better in 2023 compared to 2022, although one-third of the producers are expecting shortages.

• Two-thirds of the producers expected shortages in St. Augustinegrass in 2023, and half predicted shortages of centipedegrass sod.

• No shortages for tall fescue are expected for 2023.

• One of four Kentucky bluegrass sod producers anticipate shortages for 2023.

• Prices have increased for most turfgrass species, and producers expect additional increases in 2023. Kentucky bluegrass had the biggest price increases (29%) from 2022. The warm-season species, St. Augustinegrass and zoysiagrass, had 15% price increases.

• There was an 8% increase in growers reporting that they grew proprietary grasses and a 4% increase in certified sod growers.

• Production acreage was projected to increase in 2023, although at a lower amount compared to 2022.

• The primary market for North Carolina sod producers continues to be landscape contractors, who account for 71% of sod sales.

• The average number of full-time employees per producer remained the same as 2022, although there was a 67% increase in the number of seasonal employees.

• Average sod sales reported a 30% increase from the previous year.

• Eighty-three percent of producers reported increased sod sales in 2022.

Survey Details

Twenty-four producers who represent the following farm sizes completed the anonymous online survey:

• Under 200 acres (ten participants)

• 201 to 500 acres (seven participants)

• 501 to 800 acres (four participants)

• Greater than 800 acres (three participants)

The North Carolina Sod Producers Association (NCSPA) records suggest that the number of completed surveys represents 57% of the sod farms in North Carolina. The number of farms with the respective farm sizes suggests that the survey represents the majority of the sod production acreage in the state.

Inventories

We obtained inventory estimates for bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass, as well as a tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass mix. These estimates were based on estimated sales and the availability of sod that is excellent (more than 10% of demand), adequate (equal to demand), or poor (more than 10% shortage).

Pricing information included the farm price as well as the price for truckload orders delivered to the closest urban market or within 100 miles of the farms. All costs were reported as price per sq ft of sod.

Bermudagrass is being grown by 19 (79%) of the surveyed producers. This is currently the most popular turfgrass species grown by North Carolina sod producers. Forty-seven percent of these producers rated their inventory as adequate this year, and 5% indicated that their inventory was excellent. The number of producers projecting bermudagrass inventory shortages has steadily increased since 2020 (Figure 1).

Five (21%) of the producers are growing tall fescue. One hundred percent estimated that they would have adequate to excellent inventory for 2023. For last six years, more than 85% of producers reported good inventory levels of tall fescue (Figure 1).

A mixture of tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass is being grown by eight (33%) of the surveyed producers. Seventy-five percent of these producers rated their inventory as adequate this year and 25% anticipated shortages.

Four producers (17%) reported growing Kentucky bluegrass Of the four who responded to this survey, two indicated excellent supply, one anticipated an adequate supply during 2023, while one anticipated a shortage.

Pricing

Table 1 provides sod prices for all grass species in 2023. Prices include purchased on-the-farm and delivered.

Zoysiagrass is being grown by 17 (71%) of the surveyed producers, which made this grass the second most popular turfgrass species grown by North Carolina sod producers. Fifty-three percent of these producers rated their inventory as adequate this year, and 12% indicated that their inventory was excellent. For 2023, 35% of all zoysiagrass producers projected shortages. The inventory prediction for zoysiagrass is the best it has been since 2019 (Figure 1).

Of the producers surveyed, 16 (67%) are growing centipedegrass. Forty-four percent of these growers reported that they had adequate to excellent inventory. Fifty-six percent of all centipedegrass growers anticipate a shortage during 2023.

Six (25%) of the surveyed producers are growing St. Augustinegrass. Thirty-three percent of these growers reported adequate inventory, but 67% anticipated a shortage during 2023.

The average price per square foot was $0.37 for a truckload of bermudagrass sod at the farm and $0.42 delivered to the closest urban market or within 100 miles of the farm. The farm price ranged from $0.25 to $0.45, while delivered prices ranged from $0.33 to $0.50. The average on-farm prices for bermudagrass per square foot was the same as 2022.

Zoysiagrass on-farm prices in 2023 ranged from $0.45 to $0.85 per square foot and averaged $0.60 per square foot. This was the highest value turfgrass sold by North Carolina growers. The average price delivered to an urban market or within 100 miles of the farm was $0.62 and ranged from $0.43 to $0.80. The average on-farm price of zoysiagrass in 2023 increased by 15% from 2022.

Centipedegrass prices in 2023 ranged from $0.24 to $0.48 per square foot and averaged $0.34. The price, when delivered, ranged from $0.2 to $0.51 and averaged $0.38. The average on-farm prices for centipedegrass increased 13% from 2022.

FIGURE 1. Percentage of bermudagrass, tall fescue, and zoysiagrass producers reporting adequate to excellent supply for the past six years.

TABLE 1. Average sod price per sq ft in 2023.

* Delivered to either the closest urban market or within 100 miles of the farm

St. Augustinegrass prices in 2023 ranged from $0.50 to $0.62 per square foot and averaged $0.55. The price, when delivered, ranged from $0.52 to $0.65 and averaged $0.59. St. Augustine on-farm prices in 2023 were 15% higher than in 2022.

Tall fescue prices in 2023 ranged from $0.33 to $0.49 per square foot and averaged $0.41. The price, when delivered, ranged from $0.45 to $0.56 and averaged $0.51. The average on-farm price of tall fescue in 2023 remained the same as 2022.

The mix of tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass sod prices in 2023 ranged from $0.44 to $0.65 per square foot and averaged $0.50. The price, when delivered, ranged from $0.50 to $0.72 and averaged $0.56. The on-farm prices increased by 22% compared to 2022.

Kentucky bluegrass sod prices reported in 2023 ranged from $0.50 to 0.65 and averaged $0.58 per square. The price, when delivered, ranged from $0.55 to $0.72 and averaged $0.64. This is a 29% decrease in the on-farm price compared to 2022.

Figure 2 provides a six-year perspective of sod prices that shows fluctuations of particular species since 2018. The data represent the average price. The percentage change reported for each grass compared to the previous year was: bermudagrass, 0%; zoysiagrass, 15%; centipedegrass, 13%; St. Augustinegrass, 15%; tall fescue, 0%; tall fescue + Kentucky bluegrass, 22%; and Kentucky bluegrass, 29%.

Projected Price Increases

Most growers in the survey forecasted increased sod prices in 2023. A few producers predict steady prices for particular grasses. The percentages of producers with expectations for price changes in each grass were:

• Bermudagrass – 45% expect price increases, 55% expect prices to remain steady, none expect prices to decrease

• Zoysiagrass – 37% expect price increases, 63% expect prices to remain steady, none expect prices to decrease

• Centipedegrass – 37% expect price increases, 63% expect prices to remain steady, none expect prices to decrease

• St. Augustinegrass – 37% expect price increases, 63% expect prices to remain steady, none expect prices to decrease

• Tall fescue – 67% expect price increases, 33% expect prices to remain steady, none expect prices to decrease

• Tall fescue + Kentucky bluegrass – 40% expect price increases, 60% expect prices to remain steady, none expect prices to decrease

• Kentucky bluegrass – 60% expect price increases, 40% expect prices to remain steady, none expect prices to decrease

Proprietary Grass

In 2023, 54% of the growers reported that they grew some proprietary grasses on their farm. This is an 8% decrease from 2022. The average percentage of their grasses that were proprietary was 32% with a reported range from 1% to 91%.

Certified Grass

In 2023, 54% of the growers grew some certified sod. This was a 4% increase from 2022. The average amount of certified grass reported by these farmers was 50% of their total sod acreage. Twenty-five percent of these producers charged higher prices for certified grass—$0.02 to $0.04 more per sq ft.

Freight

Delivery charges were based on a flat rate for 54% of respondents and a per mile basis for 46%. Freight rates per mile shipped to the closest urban market ranged from $4.00 to $7.00 per mile and averaged $4.61 per mile, which was a 9.8% increase from the previous year. Six sod farms reported flat freight rates of $175 to $300 per shipment with a mean of $215, although these rates vary depending on other factors such as the distance from the farm. Seventy-five percent of the respondents indicated that freight prices are included in the price quotes to customers, while 25% invoiced the freight charges separately.

Four percent of respondents charge an unloading fee. Seventy-nine percent of respondents make additional drops on loads. The low-end charge for additional drops on a load was $50, the high-end charge was $150, and the average cost for additional drops was $80. Several respondents reported that the charge depended on the distance between drops, and that charges can be divided between buyers.

Fuel Surcharge

Seventeen percent of respondents added a fuel surcharge. Relative fuel prices each year influence this practice.

FIGURE 2. Historical perspective of average sod prices in North Carolina, 2018 to 2023.

Price Changes

When asked how often producers adjust their sale prices, half indicated that they adjust their prices yearly and half make adjustments as needed. No producers adjust their prices quarterly or monthly.

Credit Card Convenience Fee

Twenty-five percent of respondents charged a convenience fee for credit card purchases. This is a 7% decrease compared to 2022.

Sales by Industry Segments

Table 2 shows the industry segments where sod is sold. The producers estimated that landscape contractors were the largest segment with 70.7% of their sales. The next highest groups were golf courses and homeowners at 9.0% and 8.9%, respectively. The next group was sports/athletics with 7.8%. Retail garden centers were 2.2% and brokers 1.4%. The largest changes compared to previous years were the 52% increase in golf course sales and 22% increase in sales to sports/athletics with decreased sales to landscape contractors (-4%), retail garden centers (-12%), and brokers (-39%).

Acreage in Production

A total of 4% indicated that they reduced sod production acreage during 2022. The average decrease was 28%. No producer expected to reduce production in 2023. Seventy-one percent of the growers indicated that they had increased acres during the previous three years. The average percentage of increase in acreage was 17%. The percentage of respondents who expected to increase production acreage in 2023 was 35% lower than in 2022.

TABLE 2. Ranking of Industry Segments for Sale of Turfgrass in 2023.

Employees

Several questions about the number of employees and sod sales were asked as a requirement for the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services grant that was awarded to NCSPA.

The average number of full-time employees at these sod production operations was 12, which is the same as 2022. Of the 23 operations that responded, the number of full-time employees ranged from 1 to 40. The average number of seasonal employees ranged from zero to 35, with an average of five, which represents a 67% increase from 2022.

Total Sod Sales

The total sod sales for the 15 operations that reported data ranged from $87,000 to $6.2 million. The average sod sales were $2.136 million (a 30% increase from the previous year’s values). Total sod sales reported were $32,034,655. Eighty-three percent of the producers indicated their sales increased in 2022, 13% decreased, and 4% reported that sales remained the same.

Summary

The last year saw the fourth consecutive year of growth in the sod industry after several years of reducing acreage due to poor sod sales. In all species but two, there were increases in on-farm sod prices, with most having moderate increases. The primary lawn grasses (centipedegrass, zoysiagrass and Kentucky bluegrass) had price increases from 13% to 29%. New home construction remained strong in 2022 and into 2023, which drove high demand. The total acreage of sod appears steady with a small amount of growth. Shortages of warm season grasses, especially bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, and St. Augustinegrass, are projected in 2023. Most producers expect sod prices to increase in 2023.

MENTOR COACH OR WHAT WILL IT BE?

recently sat in on an industry association panel on coaching and mentoring. The audience was made up of students and early and mid-career healthcare practitioners. The subject of mentoring and coaching comes up a lot these days, and if my own coaching practice is any indicator, I believe the interest is so great because it’s so difficult to get “developed” on the job anymore. Too many leaders are simply too over-stressed, overworked or under-skilled to make that difference for their team members. In response, workers look for a coach or a mentor to help… yet most use the two terms interchangeably. They are not the same.

Dr. Paul Hersey, one of my mentors and the father of Situational Leadership, used to tell me “Don, if there is lack of clarity as to a word’s meaning – create an operational definition.” I’d like to do that now – first – before we discuss coaching and mentoring any further.

Mentor / Mentoring: Wise and trusted counselor, influential sponsor/supporter, entrusted with our care and education, advisor, master, guide

Coach / Coaching: Large horse-drawn carriage, a person who trains/instructs, a private tutor, teacher, trainer, instructor

I love these distinctions, and I had this healthcare group discuss these differences; a counselor or sponsor versus one’s tutor, trainer and instructor, the longer-term view of mentoring versus a shorter-term coaching assignment, a broader mentoring focus versus the sharper, narrower concentration of coaching. Then I asked them, under these definitions – what were they looking for, a coach or a mentor? Perhaps it was their demographics, yet resoundingly the answer was “coach” – with one voice of dissent. “I get the difference, but why do we even need a coach?” asked one man up front. I waited a moment, and then asked the audience if anyone golfed. Lots of hands went up. I asked if any of them had ever sliced… every hand stayed up. I asked how long they’ve been slicing… some responded, “for a lifetime.” After a pause, my response was, “A good swing coach can cure a slice in under an hour.”

So we want a coach, a short-term teacher. We need a coach, we can’t wait a lifetime to get better. The conundrum remains, how do we get a coach? In answer, let me paraphrase the advice of Uwe Kruger, a man who is both mentor and coach to me, to get us doing something different (we can’t help but get better):

1. Pick your spot – sit next to the ‘smartest kid in class’ – and pay attention.

www.donbrown.org

Don Brown dedicates his career to ‘helping people with people’ in leadership, sales and customer service. Bilingual and experienced at the executive and line-level alike, you see the results of his work across dozens of industries, including brewing, automotive, airline, banking and medical equipment.

2. Ask nicely – find the one thing you think they can teach you, and then ask politely enough so that you can actually learn it.

3. Courage matters – work with someone better than you, and then don’t be afraid of it.

To find yourself a coach, get comfortable showing what you don’t know, get close to the best, ask politely, pay attention and let go of fear and ego.

THE

W ONLY TWENTY

By Wes Bray, Lawns & Gardens Plus

es and Paula Bray, owners of Lawns and Gardens Plus of Virginia Beach, Virginia have had great success in establishing and maintaining a plethora of lawns, gardens and landscapes in their 34 years in business.

Joe Pye weed is a native that thrives with proper irrigation.

Come springtime, the beauty of the perennial garden is back.

The beauty of the dunes in winter takes focus off the perennial gardens.

American beach grass provides a great background for the Vitex.

Dune protection provides micro climate that allows the Hydrangea to flourish.

Tall Fescue can tolerate occasional salt spray from NE winds.

At a recent Virginia Turfgrass Council event, Wes shared his knowledge and experience in establishing and maintaining beautiful oceanfront landscapes. The presentation, titled “The Only Twenty” highlighted the limited palette of plants that can be used in landscapes close to or next to the ocean. The "Only Twenty" concept applies not just to Virginia Beach, but also to coastal North Carolina and likely the entire Eastern Shore of Virginia and Maryland.

Wes explains that while the Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina shoreline is in the transition zone and technically you can grow anything, you can’t necessarily grow it well. Here Wes shares the incredible landscapes that can be created from “The Only Twenty” plants that thrive in this area.

> CONTINUED >

The primary and secondary dunes offer great protection from NE winds.

Miscanthus grass with Roses and native Phlox.

Red Dragon leaf Begonia sheltered from ocean winds are impressive!

Ornamental grasses thrive and some can become invasive if not managed.

Bermuda turfgrass and Elaeagnus would take over the dunes if allowed.

Bermuda turfgrass is virtually indestructible at oceanfront.

The Only 20 Plant List

JUNIPER

Hollywood, Shore, Blue rug

CRAPE MYRTLE

HOLLY

Yaupon, American, Burford

ORNAMENTAL GRASSES

Pampas, Fountain, Miscanthus, Muhly

HYDRANGEA

Paniculata, Macrophylla

EUONYMUS

RIVER BIRCH

PIERIS

INDIAN HAWTHORNE

LIVE OAK

WINDMILL PALM

CAMELLIA

LIGUSTRUM

FATSIA

PITTOSPORUM

ITALIAN CYPRESS

MAGNOLIA

VITEX

ROSE

TURFGRASS

Fescue, Bermuda

ASSORTED PERENNIALS

Lantana, Hemerocallis, Rudbeckia, Daisy, Coneflower, Nepeta ,Hibiscus, Echinacea, Perovskia, Acanthus

“These plants will thrive at the oceanfront if placed in the right cultural environment-- shade, sun, irrigated, non-irrigated, etc.,” Wes says. “Regular maintenance is very important: pruning, trimming, fertilizing, insect controls, removing blown in sand. We schedule monthly maintenance (or more frequent) to monitor conditions.”

Native Muhly grass enhances the landscape at the oceanfront.

Lantana brings the many pollinators to the oceanfront garden.

OF

THE SIMPLE TRUTH INTEGRITY

By Bryan Tolar, Tolar Capitol Partners

Symbolism is great, but integrity is what matters. It’s a universal truth that confidence in a person or product sustains brand value, whether for automobiles, electronics, whiskey – you name it. With stiff competition in the marketplace and ne'er-do-wells pitching knockoffs, the integrity of a product and faith in the people behind it cannot be faked, undercut or understated.

So it is with turfgrass. A certified cultivar is more than just grass – it’s turfgrass with integrity.

Consider Tiffany & Co. For nearly 200 years, Tiffany’s little blue box has been its statement of quality, even before the fine jewelry inside is visible. The distinctive, trademarked “Tiffany Blue” creates breathtaking anticipation because of the integrity of its brand: sought-after elegance, renowned craftmanship and international prestige.

Tiffany’s marketing slogan? “Who said red is the color of love?”

Such stature is earned.

Tiffany’s fine jewelry is usually reserved for special occasions then carefully stored away until the next wear. Consider the expectations, then, for a product undergoing regular use. One visible for all to appreciate on a daily basis. Should your expectations for turfgrass be anything less?

Choosing a top turfgrass cultivar and utilizing a robust, respected certification program solidifies the integrity of the cultivar and the brand of the farm that produced it. Such trustworthiness is at the core of integrity. It takes years to earn it but can easily be lost.

Validation of your trustworthiness must be constant. Doing so will increase the value of your products and your business – it means everything. It is your “blue box” of consumer anticipation.

“You’re either elite or you’re not,” says University of Georgia Head Football Coach Kirby Smart. A certified winner himself, Coach Smart should know.

What’s the value of certification for turfgrass? According to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a certification mark shows consumers “that particular goods and/or services, or

their providers, have met certain standards.” In short, certification by the state crop improvement association provides a process attesting to a level of achievement.

So it stands that obtaining and protecting the integrity provided by turfgrass certification can make a sod grower elite. The process adds value and elevates the product to a higher level. Not only that, but turfgrass certification validates being invested in industry oversight that solidifies your integrity as a producer.

Not all turfgrass cultivars can be certified by the state crop improvement association because the rigorous comparative evaluation standards and scientific peer review can’t be met, but those that can, should.

The ultimate responsibility for protecting the purity of a turfgrass cultivar lies with the grower, through farming practices. Turfgrass certification is not just for the grower, however. It is also a commitment to grow the best, backed by rigorous thirdparty oversight, to assure the earned integrity customers are seeking. State authorities, as appropriate, and licensees of the cultivars also play a critical role in this process of achieving and maintaining integrity. There is no substitute, and presenting such certification to buyers and end-users demonstrates these

products are the best the market has to offer; that you stand behind your product. Remember, you’re either elite or you’re not.

Each state operates a Crop Improvement Association Certification (CIAC) program. The blue tag of these crop improvement associations is the ultimate quality control marker for warm season, vegetatively produced turfgrass cultivars. Blue tag validation shows landscapers, contractors, and consumers that the sod meets all state CIAC rules and regulations.

No blue tag means “no certification.” While its absence is not necessarily a sign of a bad actor, the CIAC blue tag serves as a warranty by preventing the sale of turfgrass varieties in the certification program when contamination is documented and not properly rectified.

“Certification is the highest quality classification in our industry,” asserts Charles Harris, the CEO and co-founder of Buy Sod, Inc.

Buy Sod operates sod farms in five states and is enrolled in the CIAC program in each because Harris sees the added value of a high confidence level in quality turfgrass for his company and customers: “It validates the best products of the highest quality. That’s where we want to be.”

“I believe CIAC is the standard for what it means to achieve the best quality plant material,” says Harris, whose company is based in Pinehurst, NC. “These inspections have teeth. They matter. Professionals in turf management as well as consumers have high expectations that can only be met by a rigorous certification process. We are proud to support and participate in these initiatives. It’s a differentiator and makes us better.”

Multiple paths lead to increased integrity. Certification and inspection programs by agribusinesses license turfgrass cultivars as they move to commercial production. Genetic purity is essential at each step, from breeder, to foundation, to nursery, to production.

The Turfgrass Group is among the licensers of turfgrass cultivars. The Cartersville, Ga., organization’s commitment to excellence ensures its licensed growers – “Certified Growers” – are in a position to be elite. Bill Carraway, Vice President of Sales and Marketing with The Turfgrass Group, Inc. proclaims, “Certification is a fundamental imperative by which we operate. Maintaining the genetic integrity and provenance of our cultivars is what sets us apart.”

That commitment starts with complying with respective state certification standards and licensing a limited number of certified producers. Farm visits, inspection, and quality control

reviews throughout the production process are all mandatory, critical steps in the process.

Dr. Brian Schwartz is a professor of turfgrass breeding and genetics at the University of Georgia. As one of the nation’s top turfgrass breeders, Dr. Schwartz is on the patent for at least three turfgrass cultivars. His resume includes a Ph.D. in plant breeding from the University of Florida and a B.S. and M.S. from Texas A&M University.

It's no surprise this scientist looks even beyond the assurance of the CIAC blue tag and hones in on certification as preservation of the research process.

“When properly implemented and enforced, it stops problems,” Dr. Schwartz says. “Investing in a breeding program to develop emerging cultivars only makes sense if steps are being taken to protect them from contamination. I believe in the certification system. I know it delivers the highest quality product with the most value. It is the only way to protect the integrity of plant performance over time.”

Integrity represents a reputation for hard work and excellence. For turfgrass, certification is the outward demonstration of an internal commitment to integrity. It is Tiffany’s “blue box” and eliminates “seeds of doubt.”

The Turfgrass Council of North Carolina (TCNC) 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, North Carolina Turfgrass, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or TCNC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this bimonthly publication. Copyright © 2022 by the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina. North Carolina Turfgrass is published bi-monthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of TCNC. Presorted standard postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: North Carolina Turfgrass allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to TCNC. 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 insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Suite 200, Franklin, TN 37064, 615.790.3718, Fax 615.794.4524.

Become a NC Certified Turfgrass Professional!

North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Professional (NCCTP) program is a comprehensive program developed to enhance the technical competency of turfgrass professionals, while elevating their professional image, that of your business and of the turfgrass management industry. Administered by the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina, the NCCTP designation confirms your expertise in turfgrass management to prospective customers and your peers.

Reasons to Begin Earning Your NCCTP Designation Today

The NCCTP program increases and enhances your turfgrass industry knowledge, career, and business development through a course of study of in-depth coverage of the science of turfgrass management.

The NCCTP designation offers immediate confidence and credibility of turfgrass management practices to customers and prospective employers.

Promote and market yourself as a North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Professional.

• Use the NCCTP logo on your business materials.

• Use NCCTP pins, uniform patches, and vehicle decals.

• Your TCNC Member Directory listing is distinguished with the NCCTP logo.

We Are Partnered With The NC State Turfgrass Professional Short Course

The NC State Turfgrass Professional Short Course, a comprehensive turfgrass education program, is offered at select NC State Extension offices and at NC State University. This Short Course offers a full curriculum of the science of turfgrass management as well as Continuing Education Credits for NCDACS Pesticide and NCLCLB Landscape Contractors’ license holders, and it will help you prepare for the NCCTP exam.

This Short Course is recommended but not required to take the NCCTP exam.

Enrollment Requirements:

Hold a current TCNC membership. If not currently a member, go to www.turfgrasscouncilnc.org and click ‘JOIN NOW’ to join online or download an application. Have a minimum of one full year of work experience in the turfgrass industry.

Agree to the Certified Turfgrass Professional Code of Ethics as detailed on the application form.

Submit:

• A current and valid NC Pesticide Applicators license

• A completed NCCTP application (current TCNC members may apply online).

• NCCTP Program Application: $150

• Self-Study Materials: $50

• Exam Fee: $50

Curriculum and Exam:

Curriculum covers nine core areas: Turfgrass Characteristics; Establishing Turfgrass; Soils & Nutrient Management; Cultural Practices; Pests & Integrated Pest Management; Pesticides & Plant Growth Regulators; Landscape Safety & Pesticide Use; Calculations & Calibration; Turfgrass Business & Economics.

Candidates have six months from the date of their enrollment acceptance to complete the NCCTP exam. Candidates have six hours to complete the exam and must score 80% or more on each section to receive the NCCTP designation.

Exams can be taken at the TCNC office in Raleigh during normal business hours, or arrangements can be made at your local NC State Extension location.

Exams will not be graded if any application information is missing or if TCNC membership status cannot be confirmed. Please allow two to three weeks for exam grading and reports.

Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive communication with their results and either next step options or their graduation packet.

Maintenance Requirements:

Maintain a current TCNC membership as a means of demonstrating ongoing support for the industry. Submit an annual $50 renewal fee, which supports the NCCTP program and related promotional activities. Designation year is the same as the TCNC membership year, from July 1st to June 30th.

Hold a current NC Pesticide Applicator’s License. Subscribe to, actively support and uphold the TCNC Certification Code of Ethics.

The NC Certified Turfgrass Professional designation (NCCTP), the NCCTP logo and related programs materials are the trademarked property of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina and cannot be used without TCNC’s written permission.

For additional information, contact TCNC at 984.301.5460.

NCCTP Certification Program ENROLLMENT APPLICATION

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS

Please read the items below and check each one that is true for you.

MEMBERSHIP: I am now, or I am applying here to be, a member in good standing of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina.

PESTICIDE LICENSE: I hold a current North Carolina Pesticide Ground Applicator License with subclass L, turf, and ornamental (or equivalent from another state).

EXPERIENCE: I have completed a minimum of one full year of turfgrass industry professional work experience.

EXAM: Upon acceptance into the program, I plan to complete my study and take the required exam within six months.

DUTY: I have initialed the following page of this application to show that I strongly support and willingly subscribe to the Certified Turfgrass Professional Code of Ethics, and I pledge to uphold the credibility and integrity of the program.

CONTINUING EDUCATION: I agree to successfully complete additional future curriculum materials or sections that may be required as a result of new technology or regulation.

Describe your turfgrass industry professional work experience; one full year is required to apply.

NCCTP Application Fee: $150, Study Materials: $50, Exam Fee: $50, TCNC Dues (call for amount, based on date)

Check Number__________________ (payable to TCNC)

TOTAL $

Credit Card: AMEX Visa MC Discover Billing Zip Code

Credit Card # Exp. Date Sec Code

Name on Card Signature

By signing this application, I verify that all the information is true and correct, I acknowledge and assume full responsibility for the charges on this application, and I agree to honor and abide by the terms of this non-refundable payment.

CODE OF ETHICS

Please read and initial each section below that you support and commit to uphold.

DUTY TO THE PUBLIC

Conduct service first and foremost with regards to the safety, health, and welfare of the general public. Provide service, recommendations, and information based upon honest experience, and scientifically accurate and factual knowledge.

DUTY TO THE ENVIRONMENT

Operate in such a manner to protect and preserve our environment. Use and monitor all equipment, products, and materials in a manner consistent with the label and safe for the environment.

DUTY TO THE LAWS OF OUR LAND

Abide by all laws and regulations affecting the turf industry and support the enforcement of these laws.

DUTY TO OUR FELLOW PROFESSIONALS

Refrain from the use of false, misleading, or deceptive marketing and advertising practices. Practice and insist upon sound business management practices. Maintain the highest standard of personal conduct to reflect credit and add stature to the turf industry. Recognize the importance of strong relationships within the industry. Abstain from untruthful debasement, or encroachment upon, the professional reputation or practice of another turfgrass professional.

DUTY TO THE ASSOCIATION

I AGREE

Participate in association activities and events to help further the profession. Abstain from any unfair exploitation of my association, industry, or profession.

By signing this Code of Ethics, I agree to follow the duties and intentions outlined above, and I commit to supporting and upholding these ethics with consistency and integrity.

Printed Name

Signature Date

Please Return Entire NCCTP Application To TCNC Via: email: info@turfgrasscouncilnc.org or mail: TCNC PO Box 641 Wake Forest, NC 27588

2023

Your New Go-To Grass

Developed by the turfgrass experts at Oklahoma State University, Tahoma 31 Bermudagrass pushes the geographic boundaries of bermudagrass into the northernmost reaches of the Transition Zone. Highly cold tolerant, the name “Tahoma” comes from the Native American word that means “frozen water.”

Use Tahoma 31 to design golf courses that are beautiful, sustainable, easier to maintain and play great.

All claims based on research results from National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) trials & Oklahoma State University. Visit our website for full reports.

See Tahoma 31 in the Transition Zone for yourself at: Brook Hollow Golf Club, Dallas, TX (fairways, tees, roughs) Chillicothe Country Club, Ohio (fairways)

Liberty National Golf Club, New Jersey (driving range tee) Naval Academy Golf Club, Maryland (fairways, tees)

Congressional Country Club, Maryland (8-acre driving range) Southern Hills Country Club, Oklahoma (collars)

SHADE

up to 63% shade.

CAROLINA TURF FARMS PO Box 850, Raeford, NC 28376 910-875-6141 ncsodman@carolinaturffarms.com carolinaturffarms.com