Wednesday, November 15, 2006
262-5

Turf Response to Supplemental Phosphorus on P-Deficient Soil.

Anthony Koski, Sarah Wilhelm, and Yaling Qian. Colorado State University, Dept. of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, 1173 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1173

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of supplemental phosphorus (P) additions on establishment and subsequent growth and quality of fine fescue, Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. Identical experiments (same site and soil, and identical fertility treatments) examining these three turf species were planted in fall 2003 and 2004. The effects of P sources and application rates on establishment rate, early turf quality, and weed occurrence were documented. Following the establishment period, P effects on root production, turf quality and resistance to drought were examined. Establishment rate, turf quality and weed occurence were not affected by either P source or P application rates.