TURF TIPS

Establishment

Spring Planting: 15-40 bu/1,000 sq. ft. or 600-1200 bu/Acre

Fertilizer: N levels should be kept low to stimulate root development during the first month after planting. When stolons start growing, N can be added. P and K are essential for root development. Fertilizer formulations of 1:2:3 or 1:3:4 N:P:K are adequate at .50 – 1.0 lbs./1,000 sq. ft. weekly for the first month.

Irrigation: Keep dry periods to a minimum for two weeks after sprigging. After root initiation, irrigation schedules can gradually be changed to include longer intervals between watering and longer watering times (infrequent, longer duration events) to force roots deeper into the soil.

Irrigation

Even though Sea Isle Supreme is very tolerant of poor water quality, during the initial establishment period, it is best to irrigate with fresh water. After that, because of its tolerance to periods of drought, irrigation is recommended on an as-needed basis.

If signs of water deficit are present (rolling of leaf blades, wilting, foot imprints that remain on the turf after walking on it) apply 1/2 to 3/4 inches of water. Do not apply smaller volumes of water more frequently because it will not encourage root growth.

Mowing

Proper mowing practices are essential to the maintenance of healthy turf. Adjust mowing heights relative to turf usage, i.e. tee, rough, fairway, green. (Realize that higher mowing heights will generally reduce turf grass density and increase weed problems.)

Of course, keep mower blades sharp to avoid tearing. Never cut more than 1/3 of the leaf blade at any one time. Do not mow when the grass is wet or the soil is soggy. If stress is present from drought, shade, nutrient deficiencies, insects or diseases, maintain a higher cutting height until the stress pressure is relieved.

Optimum Mowing Heights for:
         Establishment – 0.50 - 0.75 inch.
         Grow-in – 0.50 - 0.75 inch.
         Tees – 0.25 - 0.5 inch.
         Fairways – 0.50 - 0.75 inch.
         Rough – 1.25 – 2.0 inch.
         Greens – 0.10 - 0.15 inch.

Pesticides

Sea Isle Supreme has few problems with insects. Thus, chemical requirements for their control are minor. Occasionally, mole crickets, sod webworms, spittlebugs, white grubs, billbugs, cutworms and fall army- worms may appear. Instances of chinch bug problems are rare.

Fertilization

Proper fertilization is an important component of the best management practices for any turf. Fertilization and other cultural practices influence overall health and can reduce or increase vulnerability to numerous stresses, including weeds, insects, and disease.

In general, fertilizer rates can be kept quite low with Sea Isle Supreme. However, like with any turf, a proper fertility regimen will greatly influence growth rate as well as the amount of maintenance required to keep it in optimal condition.

Tees / Fairways

Optimum annual N rates of 2 - 4 lbs./1000 sq. ft. in sub-tropical regions. Optimum annual N rates of 3 - 6 lbs./1000 sq. ft. in humid tropical regions with year round growing seasons

To prevent Sea Isle Supreme from going off color due to minimal N applications and low maintenance, apply high soluble N sources (i.e., calcium nitrate) at 0.33 - 0.66 lb. N/1000 sq. ft. plus iron as needed to maintain the dark green color. A light Primo application at labeled rates could prove beneficial in maintaining the cosmetic appearance with minimal shoot growth during high heat periods.

Greens

Sea Isle Supreme has particular benefits that make it an ideal grass for use on greens. It’s excellent color and smooth texture are just as easy to maintain here as it is on tees and fairways. The grass is quick to establish itself and requires low nitrogen use to keep it healthy and playable. Greens speeds of up to 12.5 on the stimp meter can be easily achieved. (U.S. Open speeds are generally around 12 to 14.)