Fundamentals of Turfgrass Management

The classic turfgrass management handbook, updated with new developments in the field

Fundamentals of Turfgrass Management is the bestselling guide with expert coverage of basic turfgrass science and all aspects of practical care. Now in its fifth edition, this industry favorite offers the latest information on growth, nutrition, herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides, as well as new chapters discussing shade stress and light requirements and the benefits of turf. Though written at an introductory level, this book provides experienced turf managers with the most current thinking and new developments in wide range of topics, such as fertilization, grass selection, pest management, plant growth regulators, sports turf management practices, soil testing, and water quality. For students and experienced professionals alike, this book provides a thorough and well-rounded reference with everyday utility.

Today’s turf managers must have detailed knowledge of agronomy, botany, entomology, horticulture, pathology, and business management. This book brings these diverse fundamentals together into a single volume and will help you to:

• Master the art and science of turfgrass care, cultivation, and management
• Learn best practices for mowing, fertilizing, soil health, irrigation, and more
• Identify, manage, and control insect, disease, and weed pests

• Examine the professional management of sports turf, golf courses, lawns, and sod

Turf management is a $70 billion industry that reaches into sports, tourism, land management, real estate, and more. The care and maintenance of high quality turf requires careful consideration and monitoring of many variables, and both strategic planning and quick action are needed to stay ahead of threats from weather, pests, traffic, and more. Fundamentals of Turfgrass Management provides clear guidance and comprehensive coverage of all aspects of the industry, with the latest information all turf managers need to know.

NICK E. CHRISTIANS, PhD, is professor of Horticulture at Iowa State University. He is the author of numerous books, including The Mathematics of Turfgrass Maintenance, Fourth Edition, and Mathematics for the Green Industry.

AARON J. PATTON, PhD, is associate professor of Horticulture at Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. He also serves as the executive director of the Midwest Regional Turf Foundation.

QUINCY D. LAW, MS, is a doctoral student in the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture and the Ecological Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Graduate Program at Purdue University.

Preface vii

Acknowledgments ix

Chapter 1 Benefits of Turf and Its Management 1

Part I Grasses 7

Chapter 2 Introduction to the Grasses 9

Chapter 3 Cool-Season Grasses 41

Chapter 4 Warm-Season Grasses 75

Chapter 5 Ornamental Grasses 97

Part II Turf Culture 109

Chapter 6 Establishment 111

Chapter 7 Soil Testing and Soil Amendments 147

Chapter 8 Turf Nutrition and Fertilization 171

Chapter 9 Mowing, Rolling, and Plant Growth Regulators 209

Chapter 10 Irrigation 225

Chapter 11 Thatch, Cultivation, and Topdressing 249

Chapter 12 Light Requirements and Shade Management 269

Part III Turf Pest Management 285

Chapter 13 Turf Weed Management 287

Chapter 14 Turf Insect Management 331

Chapter 15 Turf Disease Management 353

Part IV The Turf Industry 379

Chapter 16 Careers in the Turfgrass Industry 381

Chapter 17 Sports Turf Management 389

Chapter 18 Sod Production 407

Chapter 19 Professional Lawn Care 419

Chapter 20 Golf Course Maintenance 431

About the Authors 455

Index 457