The fields performed well last year for camp. After the conclusion of camp, the fields were available for play by Anderson athletic teams. During the late fall, the fields were lightly overseeded through the middle with annual ryegrass. The field also had the “normal” contamination of annual bluegrass over the fall/winter. So, Katana herbicide was applied to the fields 12 days ago.
The first photo was the field in mid April (Before the Katana application). Notice the bermuda grass was still dormant, although there were plants greening up close to the soil. Notice the green cool season turf.
Now look at the field! The annual ryegrass is in decline and the bermuda is greening up quickly.
Notice on the bottom right of photo above, cosmetic damage was done to the bermuda due to golf/utility cart traffic while the bermuda was dormant.
Here is a up close photo of the field. As you can see, the majority of the bermuda has made it through the winter and is greening up while the ryegrass is yellow and declining quickly.
The next shot is from the same spot as the close up, but looking down the field. As you can see, the angle you are viewing the turf can aid in determining how much bermuda is in the field after the winter. Also notice that the last area to green up in along the NFL hash marks. Do you think traffic makes a difference in transition?
The plans for the field is a solid fertilizer program this summer with frequent aerification and topdressing. The field will be able to achieve 100% cover in a couple of weeks.
The SmartTurf blog will follow this field throughout 2011, as I believe that bermuda grass is going to be a great option for central indiana fall use athletic fields in the near future.
To learn more about Katana herbicide, click HERE.
To learn more about Anderson athletics, click HERE.
To see an earlier post on bermuda spring green up, click HERE.
Go to j-dturf.com to learn more about J&D Turf.
Play on!
--Jamie
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