The Effect of Mulch Type for Turfgrass Establishment within a Refined Wood Fiber Mat over Plastic

Abstract

Abstract The germination and establishment of perennial ryegrass and supina bluegrass within a refined wood fiber mat (Ecomat®) placed on plastic sheeting was evaluated using seven mulches and a control with no mulch. Percent turfgrass cover (0–100%) was visually estimated as a measure of seedling density at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after seeding. Three field experiments were initiated on July 3, 1995, September 29, 1995, and July 5, 1996. The three seeding dates were chosen to show the effects of mulches under optimal and suboptimal growing conditions for cool season turfgrasses. The seven mulches consisted of hydrated fiber mulch, copolymer of sodium acrylamide, crumb rubber, straw, fine grade compost, pelletized fiber mulch, and a native Capac loam soil. Percent turfgrass cover differed among species for the seven mulch treatments and the control, and the three seeding dates. Overall, perennial ryegrass achieved 25% greater cover than supina bluegrass. The straw, pelletized fiber mulch, and hydrated fiber mulch resulted in the greatest turfgrass cover regardless of seeding date. Crumb rubber performed equal to these mulches only during the 29 September 1995 seeding trial. In summary, the use of a particular mulching material will enhance turfgrass cover during seed germination.