Effect of Different Ammonium Nitrate Levels on the Performance of Cool-Climate Grass Species Grown in Çanakkale Conditions

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate effects of different levels of ammonium nitrate (33% N) dose (0, 50 and 100 g m-2) on morphological and quality traits of 3 different commonly cultivated turfgrass species (Lolium perenne ‘TOPGUN’, Festuca rubra ‘SERGEİ’ and Poa pratensis ‘AVALANCHE’) which are widely preferred in grass mixtures prepared for green areas in Çanakkale (Turkey). Fertilization treatments had positive effects on morphological parameters, except for germination power and germination rate parameters. In terms of landscape related aesthetic quality and growth percentage, 50 g m-2 and fertilization was found to be more suitable for Lolium perenne, while 100 g m-2 fertilization provided better performance for Festuca rubra. The 50 and 100 g m-2 fertilization rates yielded similar results for Poa pratensis in terms of general grass quality. It was observed that 50 g m-2 ammonium nitrate had a positive effect on root area and volume compared to other applications. In this application (50 g m-2 ammonium nitrate), the positive features of the root (high root area and volume) are the features that can prevent the grass plant from breaking off from the soil.