Turfgrass Management Flashcards

Which soil pH range is generally considered optimal for most turfgrasses?

Answer: 6.0–7.0

Most turfgrasses perform best at a soil pH of 6.0–7.0, which optimizes nutrient availability and supports beneficial soil microbial activity.

What is the primary advantage of sodding over seeding when establishing a new lawn?

Answer: Sodding provides instant, erosion-resistant coverage while seeding takes weeks to months to establish

Sodding provides immediate ground cover and erosion control, while seeding requires significantly more time for germination and establishment.

Which turfgrass spreads primarily by stolons (above-ground runners)?

Answer: Bermudagrass

Bermudagrass spreads aggressively by both stolons (above-ground) and rhizomes (below-ground), contributing to its rapid lateral spreading habit.

When is the best time to seed cool-season grasses in the northern United States?

Answer: Late summer to early fall (August–September)

Late summer to early fall provides optimal soil temperatures for cool-season grass germination and allows establishment before the onset of winter.

What is topdressing in turfgrass management?

Answer: Spreading a thin, uniform layer of material such as sand or compost over the turf surface

Topdressing involves spreading a thin, uniform layer of material (sand, compost, or soil mix) to improve surface smoothness, thatch decomposition, and soil physical properties.

Zoysiagrass is best characterized as:

Answer: A warm-season grass known for dense, slow-growing, wear-tolerant turf

Zoysiagrass is a warm-season grass prized for its dense, wear-tolerant turf and relatively slow growth rate compared to bermudagrass.

Pre-emergent herbicides for crabgrass control are most effective when applied:

Answer: When soil temperatures consistently reach 55–60°F at a 4-inch depth in spring

Pre-emergent herbicides must be in place before crabgrass seeds germinate, which occurs when soil temperatures at a 4-inch depth reach 55–60°F in spring.