Texas Tech Research Farm Hosts Turfgrass Field Day

Written by Cory Chandler

New postemergence turfgrass herbicides, evaluation of a salt-resistant fairway turf and spring dead spot control in bermudagrass are some of the topics in the spotlight Aug. 9 during Texas Tech’s Turfgrass Field Day at the university’s Quaker Research Farm.

“We’re committed to providing the highest standard of excellence in education, research and engagement with current and emerging plant and soil science issues,” said Gerald Henry, field day chairman and an assistant professor with the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences.

Registration for the half-day program at 200 N. Quaker Ave. begins at 8 a.m.; the presentations begin about an hour later. The event is sponsored by Texas Tech, Texas Turfgrass Association, C&M Golf and Grounds, ProChem, Anderson’s, Monsanto, QualiPro, Bayer CropScience, Estes Chemical, Syngenta and Nufarm.

Among the morning highlights are presentations featuring:

• Preemergence crabgrass and goosegrass control
• Spring dead spot control in bermudagrass
• Importance of spray application techniques in preemergence herbicide efficacy
• New postemergence turfgrass herbicides
• Ecology and control of khakiweed in bermudagrass
• Turf establishment with various soil amendments
• Evaluation of seashore paspalum as a fairway turf in West Texas
• Bermudagrass control in bentgrass putting greens
• Herbicide options for establishment of newly-seeded bermudagrass
• Response of new centipedegrass genotypes to high soil pH
• Effect of roundup applications on partially greened-up bermudagrass

Henry noted that the pre-registration deadline is July 23. The program’s cost is $35 for turfgrass professionals. Participants can earn Texas Pesticide Certification hours (2.5 general, and 0.5 IPM) or Golf Course Superintendents Association of America credit hours (0.5 education). Onsite registration will be an additional $5. There is no cost to Texas Tech faculty and students and AgriLife Extension personnel.