FieldScience | By Dr. Laurie E. Trenholm
in Gainesville, and Dr. Bryan Unruh at the
West Florida Research and Education Center in Jay.
The research is broken down into various projects, most of which were conducted at two or three of the sites. Each
project was conducted for a period from 24 years per site. While the research was
specifically conducted on lawngrass species,
results would be applicable to most warmseason grasses. Variations might occur on
athletic turf due to the injury from traffic,
but the anticipated outcomes would be
similar to results seen here based on the
treatments and condition of the turf. Here
is a brief synopsis of results from some of
the main projects in Gainesville.
Newly planted turf,
whether sodded, seeded,
sprigged, or plugged,
should not be fertilized
with N for at least 30 to
60 days after planting, due
to the potential for large
nutrient losses before a
root and/or shoot system
has been established.
Research update:
nitrate leaching
I
N 2005, research began in 3 locations in Florida to quantify nitrate-N
and phosphorus leaching under a variety of circumstances. The research is
in response to increasing concerns regarding potential nutrient pollution of water resources from urban turf fertilization.
Florida has experienced a growing number
of fertilizer ordinances enacted at the local
8 SportsTurf | June 2013
GENERAL METHODOLOGY
Drainage lysimeters were installed in the
center of each experimental plot at a depth
of 4" below ground. The lysimeters were
22" in diameter and 42" tall (Figure 1).
Tubing was fitted to the base of each unit,
running to above ground boxes. A vacuum
FIGURE 1. N Source Study Treatments
government level, often based on perceived
notions rather than science. The research
has been completely funded by the Florida
Department of Environmental Protection.
Sites and researchers include Dr. John Cisar
at the Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Dr. Jerry Sartain (phosphorus)
and Dr. Laurie Trenholm (nitrate-N) at the
Plant Science Research and Education Unit
www.sportsturfonline.com
