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2 results on '"surface firmness"'

1. Evaluating Hybrid Bermudagrass Using Spectral Reflectance under Different Mowing Heights and Trinexapac-ethyl Applications.

Author

Sullivan, Dana, Jing Zhang, Kowalewski, Alexander R., Peake, Jason B., Anderson, William F., Waltz Jr., F. Clint, and Schwartz, Brian M.

Subjects
BERMUDA grass, SPECTRAL reflectance, TRINEXAPAC-ethyl, TURFGRASSES, LEAF fibers
Abstract

Quantitative spectral reflectance data have the potential to improve the evaluation of turfgrasses in variety trials when management practices are factors in the testing of turf aesthetics and functionality. However, the practical application of this methodology has not been well developed. The objectives of this research were 1) to establish a relationship between spectral reflectance and turfgrass quality (TQ) and percent green cover (PGC) using selected reference plots; 2) to compare aesthetic performance (TQ, PGC, and vegetation indices) and functional performance (surface firmness); and 3) to evaluate lignin content as an alternate means to predict surface firmness in turfgrass variety trials of hybrid bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon × C. transvaalensis]. A field study was conducted on mature stands of three varieties ('TifTuf', 'TifSport', and 'Tifway') and two experimental lines (04-47 and 04-76) at two mowing heights (0.5 and 1.5 inch) and trinexapac-ethyl application (0.15 kg·ha−1 and nontreated control) treatments. Aesthetic performance was estimated by vegetation indices, spectral reflectance, visual TQ, and PGC. The functional performance of each variety/line was measured through surface firmness and fiber analysis. Regression analyses were similar when using only reference plots or all the plots to determine the relationship between individual aesthetic characteristics. Experimental line 04-47 had lower density in Apr. 2010, whereas varieties 'TifTuf', 'TifSport', and 'Tifway' were in the top statistical group for aesthetic performance when differences were found. 'TifSport' and 'Tifway' produced the firmest surfaces, followed by 'TifTuf', and finally 04-76 and 04-47, which provided the least firm surface. Results of leaf fiber analysis were not correlated with turf surface firmness. This study indicates that incorporating quantitative measures of spectral reflectance could reduce time and improve precision of data collection as long as reference plots with adequate range of green cover are present in the trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2017
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2. The Effect of Cultural Practices on the Surface Firmness of Putting Greens

Author

Drake, Arly Marie

Subjects
Horticulture, surface firmness, soil moisture, bulk density, organic matter, water infiltration
Abstract

Putting green firmness is a key playability factor in the game of golf. Greens that are too soft reward poorly struck approach shots, while a green that is too hard may result in unanticipated ball movement. The intent of this research was to develop recommendations for golf course superintendents in regards to managing surface firmness. Previous research found that greater soil moisture content results in a softer surface on most putting green root zone types. The level of compaction and organic matter content may also influence surface firmness. The study was a 3 x 2 x 3 factorial, setup as a split block design over multiple locations/putting greens with different levels of irrigation applied at different locations. Each block had three levels of compaction and half of each block was dethatched. All three putting green root zones were brought to relatively high water content, allowed to dry down to a relatively low water content, and then the different irrigation application rates were initiated. Soil moisture content, surface firmness, turfgrass quality, and green speed were measured throughout the trial. High soil water content resulted in softer surfaces as expected. Plots that were rolled daily typically had firmer surfaces than other compaction level plots. Dethatching did not significantly lower organic matter content or increase water infiltration rates. There were no significant interactions between factors for any measured variables.

Published
2014

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