MACRONUTRIENT AND MICRONUTRIENT CONCENTRATIONS OF SEEDED BERMUDAGRASSES1

Abstract

The development and utilization of seeded cultivars of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] for use in turfgrass areas such as athletic fields and golf courses has increased in recent years. There is limited data concerning the fertility requirements and the resulting nutrient concentrations for these cultivars. A study was conducted to assess the nutrient content and turfgrass quality and color of 14 seeded bermudagrasses and one vegetative cultivar, “Tifway” [C. dactylon×C. transvaalensis Burtt-Davy]. Turfgrass plots were established in 1996, maintained at a height of 2.54 cm, and fertilized at the rate of 454 g N 93 m−2 month−1 from July through October of 1996 and April through October of 1997. All other macronutrients and micronutrients were applied in equal amounts to all cultivars. Turfgrass quality and color were taken monthly. Plant tissue samples were collected, dried, ground, and analyzed for both macronutrient and micronutrient content. The study was a randomized block design with three replications. There were cultivar differences for the concentrations of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in 1997, and all the cultivars were within the sufficiency range for these two nutrients both years. There were differences for calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sulfur (S), and potassium (K) concentrations among cultivars in 1996 and 1997. Although there were differences among cultivars for micronutrient concentrations, the concentrations of certain micronutrients varied widely among cultivars. Turfgrass color and quality resulted in differences among cultivars for both years. *This work was supported by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA.