Winter Mulch Covers, Spring Vigor, and Subsequent Growth of Agrostis1

Abstract

AbstractThe potential use of mulches to reduce winter injury of turfgrasses (Agrostis spp.), and the associated adverse effect upon incidence of snow mold (Typhula sp.) raised the question of whether these materials in combination with recommended and elevated fungicide rates would have an effect upon vigor. Accordingly, a study of the effects of several mulches and fungicide levels upon spring vigor and subsequent growth of three bentgrasses was conducted in the field over a 6‐year period.In 5 of 6 years Agrostis tenuis ‘Holfior’ produced highest clipping yields in nonmulched, nonchemically treated plots, Agrostis tenuis ‘Highland’ produced lowest clipping yields. Doubling the recommended rate of fungicide did not significantly increase clipping yield.Straw mulch reduced clipping yield markedly for all cultivars regardless of fungicide level. Black plastic in combinations with recommended fungicide rates, resulted in only slight reduction of clipping yield. Clear and perforated clear plastics were the best mulches of those treated, although highest clipping yields occurred in years of low snow mold incidence. The “greenhouse” effect of these mulches is believed responsible for much of the observed yield differences.In 5 of 6 years, Agrostis palustris ‘Penncross’ produced greatest clipping yields prior to July 10, after that highest yields were produced by Holfior.