www.stma.org January 2015 | SportsTurf 9
Step one: Use the fall and winter-
time to prep the area. In late October/
early November spray out the vegeta-
tion with glyphosate and 2-4D (two
applications) and then mow the area
as low as the mower will go. Next is soil
preparation: in areas that are relatively
level use a tow-behind aerator and
aerate in multiple directions. It's not a
plowed field but close; the objective is
to establish good seed to soil contact.
In situations where grade is in need
of adjustment then a full plow grind
and grade may be required. This is also
a good time to get your soil sample
and adjust your pH, phosphorus, and
potassium needs as recommended.
Hold off on any nitrogen fertilization
for now, waiting instead the grow-in
phase next spring.
Step Two (based on frost dates):
Five to 6 weeks before the last aver-
age frost date for your area, plant the
bermudagrass seed. Riviera bermuda-
grass, one of the top seeded varieties,
is planted at a seed rate of 1.0–1.5 lbs.
per thousand square feet (.5-.75 lbs.
pure live seed). It is critical then to
apply quinclorac at a rate of 1lb per
acre right over the top of the seed.
This is a must to control crabgrass and
some broadleaf weeds that will also
be enhanced by the growth blanket. If
possible, follow the quinclorac treat-
ment with ¼ inch of compost, applied
directly over the seed. This will further
hold moisture, heat and stimulate
young seedlings. Finally, install the
blankets.
Step Three: Over the next few
weeks monitor the area. Check after
high winds for blanket security. Take
a peek under the blankets to see what
is happening; this is fun when you see
that first bermuda seed germination.
Also look for weeds and disease, and
the formation of algae mats during
high moisture times. If you see algae
Seeding:
Spreading seed 1.12 lbs. per 1000 sq. ft.
Install blankets:
Covering field with growth blankets
