Species, clover‐inclusion, and nitrogen fertilizer effects on sod tensile strength of fine fescue taxa

Abstract

AbstractIncreasing fertilization rates from 0 to 49 kg N ha−1 during establishment of fine fescue (Festuca spp.) taxa can promote faster grow‐in; however, the influence on sod production (tensile strength and handling) is unknown. More information is needed on both fine fescue taxa and the effects N fertilizer or inclusion of clover (Trifolium spp.) during establishment on sod strength. Field experiments were repeated in 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 in Indiana to quantify differences among four fine fescue taxa and N fertilizer or clover‐inclusion effects on sod production. Six N fertilizer levels ranged from 0 to 122.5 kg N ha−1 during the first 8 weeks after planting (WAP), and two treatments consisted of inclusion of either annual or perennial clover + 0 kg N ha−1 at seeding. Sod harvest variables were measured at harvests from 9 to 12 months after planting (MAP). Results indicate fine fescue growth habit characteristics play a large role in sod strength differences. The highest to lowest sod strength and handling was ranked as follows: strong creeping red fescue (F. rubra L. ssp. rubra Gaudin) > slender creeping red fescue [F. rubra ssp. littoralis (G. Mey.) Auquier] ≥ Chewings fescue (F. rubra ssp. commutata Gaudin) ≥ hard fescue (F. brevipila Tracey). A minimal effect on sod strength and handling at multiple sod harvests (9–12 MAP) was observed from increasing N fertilizer levels during first 8 wk of establishment or from clover inclusion.