The efficiency of nitrogen absorption by turfgrass impacts both the subsequent metabolism and use by the plant, and the environmental consequences of fertilization. We have identified two factors, deficiency-enhanced absorption and root architecture (density and depth) as primary determinants of the highly efficient N absorption system in turfgrasses. Both work in consort, resulting in short soil residence time for applied inorganic fertilizer, and thus, reduced potential for nitrate leaching. For example, a typical N application is largely immobilized within 3-4 days. This episodic supply of N to the plant causes dynamic changes in N assimilation, with first roots, and then shoots, functioning in nitrate reduction. Under controlled conditions, recovery of applied inorganic N by young turfgrasses typically ranges from ~65% in the short term, to 90% or greater over longer periods. However, N recovery under field conditions is rarely as efficient, suggesting one or more “missing links” in our understanding of turfgrass N ecology.