PTRC ~ Varietal Trials: Summaries

Summary
A regional turfgrass variety trial was established in May of 2004 to evaluate new grass cultivars under prairie growing conditions. Twenty-eight cultivars of Kentucky bluegrass and seven other grasses were selected from submissions received. Grasses were rated for three turf quality factors: colour, density and area cover. The trial was evaluated on a monthly basis from early May through to mid October.

The Kentucky bluegrass cultivars with the best overall colour ratings were: Odyssey, Total Eclipse, Rugby II, Nuglade, Northstar and Chateau. Washington and Touchdown had the poorest colour. The three cultivars that were the highest ranked for overall turf quality were Odyssey, Chateau and Allure. For the fine leaf fescues, Victory chewing and Badger creeping red were the best two fescues for turf colour. For overall quality the best fescue was Victory chewings fescue.

For a comparison of the species, the Kentucky bluegrass showed the best colour and for overall quality, the Kentucky bluegrasses were very similar to the alkali grass and the Poa supina. The fescues were generally rated lower for turf quality.

Summary

A regional turfgrass variety trial was established in May of 2004 to evaluate new grass cultivars under prairie growing conditions. Twenty-eight cultivars of Kentucky bluegrass and seven other grasses were selected from the many submissions received from local, national and international turf seed suppliers. Grasses were rated for three turf quality factors: colour, density and area cover. The trial was evaluated on a monthly basis from early May through to mid October.

In the first season of the trial Fults alkaligrass showed very good establishment as it rapidly developed a dense turf. Poa supina was also quick to become established, but lost quality points due to its light green colour. The Kentucky bluegrass cultivars were slower to germinate but improved steadily over the course of the 2004 growing season and were generally better in quality than the fine leaf fescues. The top Kentucky bluegrass cultivars for overall quality in year one were Rugby II, Quantum Leap, NuGlade, Tsunami, Total Eclipse, New Destiny, SR2284, Allure, Avalanche, Unique, Moon Shadow, Odyssey, Midnight, Langara, Limousine, and Alpine.

In the second season of the trial, the Kentucky bluegrass cultivars; Chateau, SR2884, Limousine, Rambo and Washington scored the highest for spring greenup. The Kentucky bluegrass cultivars: North Star and Quantum Leap were ranked the highest in overall turf quality. The Fults alkali grass produced results that were similar to that of the Kentucky bluegrasses. Despite its apple green turf colour, Poa supina had the highest overall quality ratings. The fescues consistently scored lower for density and area cover. The creeping red fescue cultivar, Boreal, was highest ranked fescue for overall turf quality.

Evaluation of Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Leaf Fescue At Various Mowing Heights (2004)

D.K. Tompkins, J.B.Ross and M.A. Anderson

This trial was seeded in May 2004 in order to evaluate Kentucky bluegrass and fine leaf fescue at two mowing heights. In the first season of the trial Fults alkaligrass showed very good establishment as it developed a dense turf quite rapidly. Poa supina was also quick to become established, but lost quality points due to its light green colouration. The Kentucky bluegrass cultivars were slower to germinate but improved steadily over the course of the 2004 growing season and were generally better in quality than the fine leaf fescues. The top Kentucky bluegrass cultivars for overall quality were Rugby II, Quantum Leap, NuGlade, Tsunami, Total Eclipse, New Destiny, SR2284, Allure, Avalanche, Unique, Moon Shadow, Odyssey, Midnight, Langara, Limousine, and Alpine. The mowing height regimen is expected to be instituted in 2005.

Evaluation of Turfgrass Species for Use on Putting Greens Final Report (2003)
M.A. Anderson, G. McCullough, J.B. Ross, D.L.Moroz and C.E Miluch

Eleven bentgrasses (Agrostis palustris Huds.) and four annual bluegrasses (Poa annua L.) wereestablished at the Red Deer Golf and Country Club in August of 1999. These grasses were evaluated for their overall quality and suitability for use on putting greens. The study revealed that all of the bentgrass cultivars tested were considered to be acceptable for use on a putting green under the NTEP standards. All ten of the bentgrasses tested demonstrated qualities superior or equal to those expressed by the standard entry, Penncross. The cultivar Penn A-4, with its strong color and superior overall quality ranked as the best overall cultivar in the trial. Cato, Southshore, Imperial, A-1, G-2 and G-6 were also highly rated. As for the bluegrasses, none of the bluegrass cultivars were considered acceptable. The bluegrass biotype, 97-Quilt I-15, was ranked the highest for the bluegrasses for overall quality. Currently, only Peterson’s Creeping Bluegrass is commercially available. Although winter injury was not specifically evaluated, spring quality ratings and winter injury are highly correlated. May quality ratings showed that Lofts L-93, Southshore, Cato, Penn A-4, Penn A-1, Penn-G-2 and Penn G-6 were significantly better than Penncross.

Evaluation of Turfgrass Species for Use on Putting Greens (2002)
M.A. Anderson, G. McCullough, and J.B. Ross

Eight of the ten bentgrasses tested demonstrated qualities superior or equal to those expressed by the standard entry, Penncross, with Penn A-4 being the best overall cultivar for 2002. The annual bluegrass biotypes tested started slowly in the spring, but significantly improved in quality over the rest of the season. Peterson’s Creeping Bluegrass scored the highest for the bluegrass biotypes.

Evaluation of Turfgrass Species for Use on Putting Greens (2001)
D.L. Moroz, C.E. Miluch, M.A. Anderson and J.B. Ross

The difference between grass species was very apparent in the 2001 trial year. The bentgrass species clearly out performed the annual bluegrass species throughout the season. Nine of the ten bentgrasses tested demonstrated qualities superior or equal to those expressed by the standard entry, Penncross. Only one annual bluegrass biotype tested, Peterson’s Creeping Bluegrass, occasionally demonstrated quality equal to Penncross. The bentgrass cultivar Penn A-4 was the best overall cultivar for 2001.

Evaluation of Turfgrass Species for Use on Putting Greens (2000)
D.L. Moroz and C.E. Miluch

Eleven bentgrasses (Agrostis palustris Huds.) and four annual bluegrasses (Poa annua L.) were established at the Red Deer Golf and Country Club in August, 1999. These grasses were evaluated for their overall quality ratings while being maintained at putting green mowing heights. There are cultivars in the trial that consistently outperform the industry standard, Penncross, including Penn A-4, Penn A-1, Lofts L-93, and Penn G-6. The annual bluegrasses overall have a tendency towards lower quality ratings, the exception being spring green-up values.

The Effect of Prograss on Control of Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua) in Turf (1994)
Prograss 9403
C.J. Bubar and C.E. Miluch

An experiment examining the efficacy of two formulations of Prograss (180EC and 500SC) for control of annual bluegrass with varying application dates was conducted over two years. Results showed the 180EC formulation to have greater and more sustained weed control than the 500SC. The data also indicated that three applications of Prograss 180EC are necessary to cause highly significant declines in percent annual bluegrass. However, it did not appear to matter whether all three applications were made in the fall or if two fall applications were followed by an application the next spring. This finding should allow a turf manager some flexibility in using this product.

Taxonomy of Poa annua L. (1994)
C.J. Bubar and C.E. Miluch

As with other grass species, Poa annua L. demonstrates differences within the species to accommodate differing local conditions. A list of criteria was developed to classify the variants and in preliminary studies 12 different biotypes of annual bluegrass have been identified. Further biotype monitoring will continue to determine if additional variants exist.

Evaluation of Various Herbicides for Control of Annual Bluegrass (1993)
Herbicides on Annual Bluegrass ????
C.J. Bubar, J.B. Ross

Three applications of two Prograss formulations (18OEC and 5OOSC) caused reductions in annual bluegrass and associated increases in Kentucky bluegrass populations. Most notable was the consistent highly significant effect of the Prograss 18OEC formulation. The sequence of application, two fall and one spring vs. three fall applications, did not appear to affect the initial performance of either Prograss product. However, more sustained control was observed in the both products when applications were made three times in the fall.

Two applications of either Prograss product were sufficient to cause initial reductions in annual bluegrass, but only Prograss 18OEC applied twice showed long term annual bluegrass control and marked increases in Kentucky bluegrass plants. Single applications of the products (Prograss 18OEC, Prograss OOSC, Afolan F and Dimension) were ineffective in either reducing annual bluegrass or increasing Kentucky bluegrass populations.

It is important to note that in this trial only single applications of the Afolan F and Dimension product were examined. Studies in other parts of North America have shown hat multiple applications of these products in fall and spring have been effective in controlling annual bluegrass.

Annual Bluegrass Control in Turf (1992)
Poa Control 9214
C. J. Bubar, J. B. Ross

Two separate trials commenced in the fall of 1991 when a herbicide Prograss, (active ingredient Ethofumesate) was applied to Prominent creeping bentgrass and to Kentucky bluegrass turf for the control of annual bluegrass. Evaluations were conducted in the fall of 1991 and in the spring of 1992. Recommended rates and timing for the applications had no significant effect on annual bluegrass populations in either trial. An early snowfall hampered the final fall application of this material on Kentucky bluegrass and may have affected the effectiveness of the product.

The trial was continued in the fall of 1992, with two formulations of Prograss applied, as well as, one application of Afolan (Linuron) and one application of Dimension (Dithiopyr). Final evaluations will be conducted in April and May of 1993 regarding the effectiveness of these products. There was some crop damage evident in the fall applied Afolan when evaluations were conducted. This may indicate an application rate that was too high.

Salinity

Salinity Tolerance of Grasses Used for Boulevard Plantings (2008)
J.B. Ross and M.A. Anderson

Grasses that are typically used for turfgrass plantings in the cold climate of Alberta and the Canadian Prairie Provinces are not tolerant of saline conditions that occur near roadways in our major cities. As a result, areas that are void of grasses often exist near the edge of roadways. Alternative grasses need to be determined that might be better able to survive these conditions.

Many grasses are being developed through breeding programs that are both drought and saline tolerant. However, these grasses have not been tested in our climate. In addition, a number of native grasses have been selected in Alberta that are thought to have good salinity tolerance. However, these have not been tested under conditions where grasses are mowed on a semi-regular basis.

The saline tolerant grass trial established in 1999 at the Olds Central Highlands Golf Club has entered into its second full year of evaluation. All the grasses tested tended to increase in overall quality from the previous year. The Creeping Red Fescues and Hard Fescue were the top performers for 2001, while the Wheatgrasses ranked low overall.

Saline Tolerant Grass Trial (2000)
C.E. Miluch and D.L.Moroz

A saline tolerant grass trial was established late in the summer of 1999 at the Olds Central Highlands Golf Club. The EC (Electroconductivity) readings of the soil were 7 mS/cm. At this level only salt tolerant species would survive. All the grasses tested demonstrated some salt tolerance. The Creeping Red Fescues, Hard Fescue and Reflexed Saltgrass were the top performers throughout the summer of 2000 while Idaho Bentgrass, RS Hydrid Wheatgrass, and Idaho Fescue ranked low overall.

Saline Tolerant Grass Trial (1999)
C.E. Miluch and D.L.Moroz

A saline tolerant grass trial was established late in the summer of 1999 at the Olds Central Highlands Golf Club. The EC (Electroconductivity) readings of the soil were 7 mS/cm. At this level only salt tolerant species would survive. Grass species demonstrating salt tolerance included in this trial are: R9-208 (Nuttal's) Alkali Grass, Fults Alkali Grass, Absolute Kentucky Bluegrass, Golfstar Idaho Bentgrass, Newhy RS Hybrid Wheatgrass, Kirk Crested Wheatgrass, Warwick Hard Fescue, Idaho Fescue and 4 cultivars of Creeping Red Fescue (Boreal, Aruba, Dawson and Seabreeze). Evaluations will commence in the spring of 2000.

Salinity Tolerant Grass Cultivar Trial (1997)
C.E. Miluch

In the fourth year of the Salinity Tolerant Grass Varietal Trial overall seasonal results dropped compared to previous years. Initially the spring evaluations showed promise, but as the season progressed and the turf was exposed to the dry summer months the plots declined dramatically. Overall the best performers included SL-633 Alkali Grass, Fults Alkali Grass, Boreal Creeping Red Fescue, Revenue Slender Wheatgrass, Crewcut Tall Fescue and Swift Russian Wild Ryegrass. The overall quality ratings for the four year trial supported no species or cultivars with a value over the acceptable rating of 5.

Salinity Tolerant Grass Cultivar Trial (1996)
C.E. Miluch

In the third year of the Salinity Tolerant Grass Varietal Trial seasonal results were poorer than they have been in the previous two years. The majority of the plants within replications 1 and 2 were under water during spring evaluations. Many of the plants not submerged had salt residue on the leaf blades. The turfgrass had major stress factors to overcome during the green up period. The summer and fall months were very dry, and the plants were unable to recover from the various stresses of the season. Overall the best performers were Boreal Creeping Red Fescue, the two Alkali Grass species, and Crewcut Tall Fescue. Other species with observable salt tolerance were Slender Wheatgrass and Russian Wild Ryegrass.

Salinity Grass Trial (1995)
C.E. Miluch

The second year of the salinity grass trial presented a more accurate evaluation of the species tolerance to the saline conditions at the Olds Central Highlands Golf Club. The best overall performers of the twelve selected species in the trial were, once again, the fescues, Boreal Creeping Red Fescue and Crewcut Tall Fescue. Other grasses that demonstrated acceptable overall ratings for saline tolerance were the Alkali Grasses, Slender Wheatgrass and Russian Wild Ryegrass.

Salinity Grass Trial (1994)
C.E. Miluch

Twelve varieties of salt tolerant grasses were seeded next to a water hazard at the Olds Central Highlands Golf Club in June. Selections for entry into the trial were based on saline tolerance ratings found in the Manual of Plant Suitability for Reclamation in Alberta - 2nd Edition, and recommendations from seed industry personnel. Since the trial was established this year, only preliminary data and trends are presented.

Boreal Creeping Red Fescue demonstrated the highest overall ratings, followed closely by Crewcut Tall Fescue. Other promising species included, the Alkali Grasses, Revenue Slender Wheatgrass and Swift Russian Wild Ryegrass (these grasses rounded out the top five). Winter hardiness will be a factor considered in next season's evaluation. Traditionally Tall Fescues exhibit poor overwintering capabilities in this area. Therefore the ratings could change dramatically in subsequent years.

Salinity Tolerance of Turf and Forage Grasses (1991)
R.C. McKenzie, H.C. Naida, N.F. Clark & S.A. Woods, Alberta Special Crops and Horticultural Research Center Brooks, Alberta

Salt tolerant grasses are the best adapted crops for over 1.2 million hectares of cultivated saline soils in Alberta. The amount of forage produced in these areas is influenced by the salt tolerance of the species grown and the level of salinity in the soil. Many native species grow in these areas but their growth is restricted by salinity. Improved information on salinity tolerance would provide better options for forage production on these saline areas. Some of the marginal lands are used for golf courses, parks and other recreational areas. A knowledge of salt tolerance of species, combined with a salinity inventory of these areas would mean better species selection for these problem areas. This would reduce the need for drainage and other expensive reclamation measures.

National Turfgrass Evaluation Program

National Turfgrass Evaluation Program - Final Report (2000)
C.E. Miluch

The National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) trial ran from 1996 - 1999. Spring green-up, genetic colour and overall quality of the turf was evaluated. Ba 81-220 and VB 16015 ranked highest in spring green-up ratings. Award and Limousine Kentucky Bluegrasses ranked number one overall in genetic colour and overall quality respectively. The data presented in this report will only be from 1997, 1998 and 1999 as 1996 was establishment data.

National Turfgrass Evaluation Program - Kentucky Bluegrass Cultivar Trial (1999)
C.E. Miluch

This was the final year of evaluations for the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program trial at Olds College. The objective of this trial was to determine turfgrass quality ratings of 120 cultivars of Kentucky Bluegrass. The most dramatic differences were observed in the colour ratings. Coventry and Allure rated the highest for spring green-up with a value of 5.33. Award, Impact (J-1576) and Blacksburg had the highest rating for genetic colour at 8.33. Limousine and Rambo (J-2579) had the highest ratings for leaf texture. Overall, seasonal quality evaluations ranged from 6.36-8.05. Limousine ranked number 1 in quality ratings again this season.

National Turfgrass Evaluation Program - Kentucky Bluegrass Trial (1997)
C.E. Miluch

The National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis) trial is in the second year of evaluation. 120 cultivars of P. pratensis presented some differences, but overall the evaluation values were similar. Individual quality ratings (colour, density and area cover) were used to determine which cultivars performed best during the 1998 growing season. The cultivar with the highest colour and density ratings was Limousine. For area cover PST-B2-42 Kentucky Bluegrass presented the highest rating, Limousine was in the top five for area cover as well.

National Turfgrass Evaluation Program Kentucky Bluegrass Trial (1996)
C.E. Miluch

One hundred twenty Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis) cultivars were selected for the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) and seeded in June of 1996 at Olds College. Since this is the first year of the trial only establishment data will be presented.

Area cover is a standard indicator for turfgrass establishment. Based on this standard, the Kentucky Bluegrass cultivars in PTRC's study were considered well established going into the winter season. The cultivars demonstrating the best overall area cover ratings were Nimbus, Platini, Kenblue, Baronie and Caliber for the 1996 evaluations.

As this is the establishment year, significant differences in quality ratings were not expected (as only one quality rating was conducted in 1996). It is important to note that, once the cultivars go through a Prairie winter more distinct differences will be observable.

Other Evaluation Trials

Summary
Six individual grasses and two grass blends were established in order to test their suitability for use as turfgrass. NaturePro Turf and Nuttall’s Alkali Grass showed the best establishment. In year one, best overall quality ratings were attributed to NaturePro Turf, Nuttall’s and Fult’s alkali grass, and Eagle Lake Acreage Mix. NaturePro Turf showed the best colour at that time, while the Violet Wheatgrass was quite light green. NaturePro Turf, Nuttall’s Alkali Grass, Fult’s Alkali Grass, and Eagle Lake Acreage Mix had the highest area cover and density ratings.

In year two, NaturePro Turf, Eagle Lake Turf Acreage Mix and Nuttall’s weeping alkaligrass were the top rated grasses/mixes for overall quality. Early bluegrass, Eagle Lake Turf Acreage Mix and NaturePro Turf showed the best colour when ratings were combined for the year. NaturePro Turf, Eagle Lake Turf Acreage Mix and Nuttall’s weeping alkaligrass were the top rated grasses/mixes when density was compared.

Summary
Two tests were established in 2007 to evaluate various grasses for use on putting greens. The test undertaken at Salmon Arm established at a slower rate than did the Calgary trial, no doubt as a result of weather conditions. Generally, the creeping bentgrass varieties established more quickly than did the velvet bentgrass. At Salmon Arm, the varieties that established the best were Alpha, Pennlinks II, L-93, and Penneagle II. Those varieties that established most rapidly at the Calgary site were Cobra 2, L-93, Penncross and Declaration, all creeping bentgrass varieties. Velvet bentgrass was slower to establish than was the creeping bentgrass. Penneagle II had the highest score on the rating scale for colour at Salmon Arm and was considered to be equal to Declaration, Penn A-4, and CY2 creeping bentgrass and to Legendary and Vesper velvet bentgrass. At Calgary, colour of the various grasses was very similar. The density of the two velvet bentgrass varieties was superior to the creeping bentgrass varieties in the Salmon Arm study. The best varieties for density in Calgary were Cobra 2, L-93, and Declaration, all creeping bentgrass varieties. For overall quality in Salmon Arm, the best varieties were Penneagle II, Declaration, Penn A-4, T1, Kingpin, Pennlinks II, CY2, Alpha, Memorial, Penn G-1 and Cobra 2. At the Calgary site, Cobra 2, L-93, Penn A-4, Declaration and Penneagle II were the best varieties for overall turf quality. Poa trivialis produced poor quality, possibly due to its inability to withstand close mowing.

Results from this trial were very inconsistent between the two sites. In addition, the ratings need to be consistently higher if they are to be considered a reliable evaluation of the grasses in this trial.

Introduction
This trial was established in 2007 for display at the Turf Producers International Conference and Show which was held in Calgary in July of 2008. The best grasses for overall quality were Glenmont, Shamrock, Hallmark, Harmonie, AKB 287, ELT Blend, Jacklin 94-1466, Princeton 105, Delight, Cheetah, Julia, SR2284, and A00-247. Only two grasses, Shamrock and Princeton 105, were in the bluegrass trial that was completed in 2000. This would indicate that new varieties are outperforming grasses from the previous trial.

Summary
This trial was initiated to examine the effects of traffic on various grasses for sports fields in a cold climate. Two locations were seeded in 2003 one in Calgary and one in Edmonton. The Calgary site was seeded in late June, and under irrigated conditions, established normally. The Edmonton site was seeded in early September on an unirrigated site. Due to drought stress in 2004 and physical damage from construction equipment working in the area, this site was abandoned in the spring of 2005.

At the Calgary site, athletic events were initiated in the fall of 2004. The plots endured moderate to heavy traffic from mid August through to and the end of October. Cleat injury was visible throughout the site. Damage ranged from moderate shearing of the above ground plant portion (verdure) to the more severe physical up rooting of the plants.

The best overall Kentucky bluegrass for colour was Showcase, while for overall turfgrass quality, the best three were: Showcase, Award, and Moon Shadow. Award and Showcase appeared to be the most resistant of encroachment from Poa supina. For the perennial ryegrass, the best two for turfgrass colour seasonal average were: Fiesta 3 and Pick RC2. The best perennial ryegrass for quality was Pick RC2, while Pick RC2, PR A-97 and the Fiesta 3 were the best cultivars for resisting the encroachment of Poa supina. The best tall fescue cultivars were SR8600 and Grande for turfgrass colour, however, there were no differences in turfgrass quality. An analysis of the turf area cover data revealed that Grande and SR8600 had best area cover. Not surprisingly, they also had the least encroachment of Poa supina. During the summer and fall, the Calgary Parks Mix and the perennial ryegrasses had better colour than the other grasses, when comparing the species and the mixtures. In the fall and for the overall turfgrass quality the perennial ryegrass, the Calgary Parks Mix and the 10% Poa supina mix were the highest rated. The perennial ryegrass resisted encroachment of the Poa supina the best.

The area cover rating provides an indication of wear tolerance of the grasses. The Poa supina by itself and the Poa supina mix had the highest wear tolerance ratings. The Poa supina is a very aggressive grass and went from 10% in the original mix to 98% by the end of 2006. It also encroached on the other grass species and would be expected to eventually dominate in those plots as well. Its area cover was superior to the other grasses, but may have a problem overwintering.

Summary

This trial was initiated to examine the effects of traffic on various grasses for sports fields in a cold climate. Two locations were seeded in 2003 one in Calgary and one in Edmonton. The Calgary site was seeded in late June, and under irrigated conditions, established normally. The Edmonton site was seeded in early September on an unirrigated site. Due to drought stress in 2004 and physical damage from construction equipment working in the area, this site was abandoned in the spring of 2005.

The tall fescue plots exhibited more physical uprooting than the other grasses and the bare patches created in the fall of 2004 required most of the season to fill-in. The perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass and the sports field mix plots successfully recovered from traffic damage and were rated as acceptable in overall turf quality. The Poa supina mix showed the greatest improvement over the course of the season and scored the highest in overall turf quality.

Wear Tolerant Grasses for Use on Sports Fields in a Cold Climate (2004)

M.A. Anderson and J.B. Ross

This trial was initiated to examine the effects of traffic on various grasses for sports fields in a cold climate. The Calgary site was seeded June 30, 2003, and the Edmonton site was seeded September 3, 2003.

All grasses at Calgary site came through the winter of 2003-04 in good condition as weather conditions were generally mild. The grasses recovered quickly in the spring and continued to improve in quality over the summer. The perennial ryegrass cultivars were established well and received the highest scores for area cover, density and turf colour. The field was opened to athletic competitions in September 2004.

The plots at Edmonton over wintered as a dormant seed bed. In the spring, seed began to germinate but emergence was well below expectations leaving the stands of turf thin and patchy. The Perennial Ryegrass cultivars were best at establishing a stand of turf, while the Kentucky Bluegrass cultivars and the Poa supina plots were much poorer. A decision as to whether to continue the trial with the current stand of turf will be made after the spring evaluation in 2005.

Evaluation of Corn Gluten Meal as a Biological Control Product for Broadleaf and Grass Weeds in Turfgrass (2002)
Darrell K. Tompkins, Carol Bubar, James B. Ross, Mark A. Anderson

This three year study is intended to evaluate corn gluten meal as a biological control product for broadleaf and grass weeds in turfgrass for the Prairie Provinces. Two applications of the herbicide, Killex, almost completely eliminated the dandelion populations at both sites prior to the initiation of the treatments. Treatments included three rates of corn gluten applied in the spring, the same rates of corn gluten in the fall and the same three rates in spring and fall. As well, applications of Killex were applied as a spring only treatment and as a fall only treatment. Due to the initial eradication of the weeds, there were very small weed count differences between treatments in the fall. However, there was an improvement in colour and quality for the treatments that had corn meal applied to the plots. As the rate increased colour and density increased as well. A interesting finding from this year’s study was that there was very little germination of dandelions in late summer in spite of ideal conditions. This might be an indication that dandelions only germinate in the spring in the Calgary climate.

Evaluation of Various Biological Control Products for Broadleaf and Grass Weeds in Turfgrass (2002)
Darrell K. Tompkins, Carol Bubar, James B. Ross, Mark A. Anderson

Three different biological control products were applied to plots on two sites within the Regina Parks system that had a high natural infestation of weeds. Corn gluten meal, soybean meal and sugar beet extract were applied at three different rates on August 13 and September 9, 2002 and were evaluated for their ability to control weeds. They were compared with two herbicide treatments, one applied in the spring and one applied in the fall. Due to the late starting date of the trial, the spring herbicide application was not applied. However, results of the late summer herbicide application showed that there was a significant reduction in weeds. There were no treatment effects of the biological control products. There was a significant colour improvement in the turfgrass associated with both the corn gluten and the soybean meal. The untreated and the herbicide treated plots, as well as the two lower rates of sugar beet extract did not improve the turfgrass colour ratings. The only observation regarding the weeds was that the dandelions increased in size, particularly in the fertilized plots.

Evaluation of Various Turfgrass Species for Use on Putting Greens (1999)
D.L. Moroz, C.E. Miluch and W.A. Brown

The Evaluation of Various Grasses Grown Under Low Maintenance Conditions Edmonton/Fort Saskatchewan Trial (1997)
D. McKernan, J.B. Ross

This trial was developed to determine the quality of various grasses grown under low maintenance conditions. Low maintenance, for this trial, meant no irrigation, no fertilizer, minimal mowing, and minimal pesticide applications. The grasses were evaluated for their establishment and general turf qualities, as well as weed encroachment and height measurements. Ten individual grass species and ten mixtures, which were comprised of these species, were seeded at two different sites in June of 1995. These sites were located in Edmonton and Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. Research plots were replicated and larger individual plots were established for demonstration purposes. This report outlines results of the third year of this trial.

During the establishment year Elbee Northern Wheatgrass, Nakiska Sheep fescue, Aurora Hard fescue, Dawson Creeping Red fescue and the mixture that included these three fescues plus Canon Canada bluegrass (Mixture #12) showed the highest area cover ratings. Green Needle Grass and Canon Canada bluegrass showed the lowest area covers. Obviously, the three fescues had the greatest affect on the establishment of Mixture #12. Overall area cover ratings for the three years showed that Aurora Hard fescue, Nakiska Sheep fescue and Dawson Creeping Red fescue and Mixtures #11 and #12 had the highest area cover ratings. Weed count data showed that three individual grasses; Nakiska Sheeps fescue, Dawson Creeping Red fescue, and Red Top showed the least weed encroachment. Of the mixtures; Mixture #11, #12, #13, #16, #18 and #19 had the lowest weed numbers. Heights measurements showed that Highlander Slender Wheatgrass, Green Needle Grass and Red Top grew the tallest. Height measurements were measured to the top of the seedhead. The shortest growers based on the means of 14 height measurements were Alpine Bluegrass, June Grass, Aurora Hard fescue and Nakiska Sheep fescue.

Evaluation of Various Low Growing Turfgrasses for Use on Putting Greens (1996)
W.A. Brown and J.B. Ross

Twelve creeping bentgrasses were compared for quality ratings while being maintained at putting green mowing heights. In the establishment year of this trial, most of the bentgrasses established quickly, with the exception of 18th Green and Northland which were somewhat slower. For colour ratings, 18th Green was consistently the best, although it was a little slower to green up in the spring. Density ratings showed that Providence and 18th Green were the best two varieties followed closely by Northland. For area cover Penncross, 18th Green and Providence showed consistently good ratings, although Penncross was poorer in year three. Overall, 18th Green and Providence consistently performed best.

The Evaluation of Various Grasses Grown Under Low Maintenance Conditions Edmonton/Fort Saskatchewan Trial (1996)
D. McKernan and J.B. Ross

Ten individual grass species and ten mixtures, which were comprised of these species, were seeded at two different sites in June of 1995. These sites were located in Edmonton and Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. Research plots were replicated and larger individual plots were established for demonstration purposes.

During the establishment year the fine leaf fescues; Nakiska sheep fescue, Aurora hard fescue, Dawson creeping red fescue or mixtures that included a high percentage of these three showed the highest area cover ratings. Three of the native grasses; Junegrass, Alpine Bluegrass and green needle grass showed the lowest area covers.

In year two, Aurora hard fescue and Nakiska sheep fescue had high area cover ratings and were relatively low growers. In general, those mixes of grasses that contained higher amounts of these two fescues performed well.

Evaluation of Various Low Growing Turfgrasses for Use on Putting Greens (1995)
W.A. Brown and J.B. Ross

Twelve creeping bentgrasses, one rough stalk bluegrass (Poa trivialis) and one chewings fescue were compared for quality ratings while being maintained at putting green mowing heights. In year one of this trial, Poa supina was also rated but was eliminated in year two due to its inability to withstand the low mowing height. The rough stalk bluegrass and chewings fescue were rated for the year but had significantly lower ratings than did the bentgrasses. Of the bentgrasses, 18th Green had the best overall ratings followed by Providence, ProCup, Penneagie, Putter and Penncross.

The Evaluation of Various Grasses Grown Under Low Maintenance Conditions Medicine Hat and Lethbridge Trial (1995)
D. McKernan, J.B. Ross - Prairie Turfgrass Research Centre
J. Penrice - City of Lethbridge
G. Patzer - City of Medicine Hat

City Parks Departments in Medicine Hat and Lethbridge undertook a research initiative in southern Alberta to examine the performance of twenty-five grasses in a low maintenance situation. Plots were seeded in both cities in May of 1993 and were evaluated through the summers of 1993, 1994 and 1995. This is the final report on this experiment.

Over the three seasons of study, there was a consistent relationship between area cover and weed density. The best performers in area cover were Crested Wheatgrass, Northern Wheatgrass and Blue Grama. Generally, these grasses also had the lowest weed density. The worst performers in area cover included Rough Fescue, Junegrass, Slender Wheatgrass, Alkaligrass and Kentucky bluegrass. The lowest growing grasses included Rough fescue, Chewings and Hard rescues, Kentucky bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Junegrass and Blue Grama. They grew to an average height of 5.45cm. There was very little difference between the grasses as far as their clumping habit was concerned. In fact, a statistical difference was barely noted over the three years. Drought measurements were affected by rainfall and temperature extremes over the three years of study, but was not always present during regular evaluations. Drought stress was very evident in 1994 and 1995 in southern Alberta. The grasses which showed the greatest drought tolerance during these periods were the Wheatgrasses (Intermediate, Western and Northern) and the Canada bluegrass. One of the Kentucky bluegrasses, Washington, also showed good drought stress tolerance. This was unexpected, as Kentucky bluegrass is not considered drought tolerant.

The Evaluation of Various Grasses Grown Under Low Maintenance Conditions Edmonton/Fort Saskatchewan Trial (1995)
D. McKernan, J.B. Ross

Two evaluations were performed in July and September of 1995. Results for area cover, which is a good indication of establishment, showed that the fine leaf fescues had the highest ratings. In particular, Aurora Hard fescue, Nakiska Sheep fescue and Dawson Creeping Red fescue showed the best cover. Those mixtures that had high percentages of these grasses included had the highest ratings for the mixtures.

Evaluation of Various Low Growing Turfgrasses for Use on Putting Greens (1994)
W.A. Brown, J.B. Ross and S. Patterson

In this trial twelve bentgrass varieties, one rough stalk bluegrass, one chewings fescue and one Poa supina were compared for quality ratings while being maintained at putting green mowing heights. Data from the first year of this trial showed that the bentgrasses were significantly better in quality and establishment ratings than the other three.

Those bentgrasses that rated highest in year one were 18th Green, Penneagle, Penncross, Providence, Putter and Cobra. Those that rated highest in density at the end of the season (which may give a better indication of quality ratings for mature turf) were 18th Green, Northland, Penneagle, Putter and Providence.

Low Maintenance Grass Trial (1994)
D. McKernan, J.B. Ross

City Parks Departments in Medicine Hat and Lethbridge have undertaken this research initiative in southern Alberta to examine the performance of twenty five grasses in a low maintenance situation. Plots were seeded in May of 1993 and have been evaluated through the summers of 1993 and 1994. The data presented here shows trends are starting to develop after only two growing seasons.

With adequate precipitation in June in southern Alberta, the perennial ryegrasses displayed good quality and were competitive against weed invasion. However, largely due to drought stress they declined considerably over the summer and it was questionable whether the plants were alive going into winter. The hard and tall fescues were very strong performers, displaying aggressive growth and very good drought resistance. Not surprisingly, the wheatgrasses (crested, northern and intermediate) performed very well in area cover and showed a minimal amount of clumping. Another excellent performer this past year was the native grass, Blue gramma grass (Bouteloua gracilis) which showed good area cover, low growing height and minimal clumping habit.

Weed ratings varied from Medicine Hat to Lethbridge due to different histories of the plot sites, the weather and different treatments at the two different sites. The site at Lethbridge had been cultivated and farmed as a grain field and had higher numbers of annual weeds than the site at Medicine Hat. As the site at Medicine Hat had been reclaimed as a low maintenance area and had a significant alfalfa weed population; it was spot sprayed with a selective herbicide this past summer to minimize competition from the larger plants. The hot dry summer this year reduced the weed populations, particularly in Medicine Hat where weed counts were collected on actively growing weeds only.

Turfgrass Varietal Trials (1994)
D.K. McKernan

After four years of testing, the Turfgrass Varietal Trial has been completed. The best performing bluegrasses over this four year period were, ranked in order, Nugget, Alpine, Midnight, and Touchdown. This is a shift from earlier research results carried out by Dr. Jack Lebeau in Lethbridge in the 1970's, whose recommendations focused on Baron, Fylking, Nugget and Banff.

Creeping red fescue results showed improved performance in the newer cultivars (Jasper and Fortress) over conventional recommendations (Boreal). No significant differences between the Chewings fescue cultivars were noted over the four years but only two cultivars were tested.

With Hard fescue cultivars, Spartan and Aurora outperformed Triana, but the Hard fescue cultivars had lower overall ratings than either Creeping red or Chewings fescues.

Of the four cultivars tested, the best Tall fescue cultivar was Bonzai. The Tall fecues showed best in the heat of summer but performed below bluegrass/fescue standards in the spring and fall seasons.

Manhattan ryegrass is still the best performer of the ryegrasses but was still well below the bluegrass and fescue ratings, again due to a winter hardiness problem.

Low Maintenance Grass Trial (1993)
D. McKernan, J. Ross

City Parks Departments in Medicine Hat and Lethbridge have undertaken a new research initiative in southern Alberta examining the performance of twenty-five grasses in a low maintenance situation. Plots were seeded in both cities in May and evaluated in July and September of 1993. Germination rates varied despite record breaking rainfall and only preliminary data is presented here. Not surprisingly, the perennial ryegrass and tall fescue cultivars were off to a quick start, and showed very good area cover by July. The best area cover ratings were demonstrated in the September evaluation by the fescue "clan". The lowest ratings in area cover or plant density were the native grasses which included rough Fescue, Junegrass and Blue gramma grass. Weed ratings, measured by actual counts, varied considerably from Medicine Hat to Lethbridge due to different histories of the plot sites. Lethbridge's site had been cultivated and farmed as a grain field and had higher numbers of annual weeds. Medicine Hat's site had been reclaimed as a low maintenance area and had lower weed counts.

Turfgrass Varietal Trials (1993)
D. McKernan, C. Miluch

After three consecutive years of testing, some turfgrass cultivars are clearly showing signs of superior performance. The best performing bluegrasses over this three year period were, ranked in order, Nugget, Alpine, Midnight, and Touchdown. This is a shift from earlier research results carried out by Dr. Jack Lebeau in Lethbridge in the 1970's, whose recommendations focused on Baron, Fylking, Nugget and Banff.

Creeping Red Fescue results showed an improved performance in the newer cultivars of Jasper and Fortress over conventional recommendations (Common and Boreal). No significant differences were noted between the Chewings Fescue cultivars. However, what is significant is that Chewings fescues performed better than Creeping Red Fescues in the trials. With Hard Fescue cultivars, the poorest performer was Triana and all Hard Fescue cultivars have lower overall ratings than either Creeping Red or Chewings Fescues.

The best Tall Fescue cultivar was Bonzai which performed better as the growing season progresses. All Tall Fescues performed below bluegrass/fescue standards, mainly due to marginal winter hardiness. Manhattan ryegrass is still the best performer of the ryegrasses but still performed well below the bluegrasses and Fescues, again due to a winter hardiness problem.

Turfgrass Varietal Trials (1992)
D. McKernan, D. Halverson

After two consecutive years of testing, some turfgrass cultivars are clearly showing signs of superior performance. Out of nineteen cultivars tested the best overall bluegrasses over two years were, ranked in order, Nugget, Touchdown, Alpine, Midnight and America, followed closely by Eclipse, Ikone and Glade. Creeping red fescue results clearly showed a significantly improved performance in the newer cultivar, Jasper, over conventional cultivars. No significant differences were noted between the Chewings-and Hard fescue cultivars. However, Biljart and Spartan performed very well in the Hard fescue category. The best Tall fescue cultivar was Bonzai, which performed much better than the four other cultivars. All Tall fescues performed below bluegrass/fescue standards, due to marginal winter hardiness. Manhattan ryegrass was the best performer of the ryegrasses but still performed well below the bluegrasses and fescues, again due to a winter hardiness problem.

Varietal Trials: Summaries

Poa annua Summaries

Salinity

National Turfgrass Evaluation Program

Other Evaluation Trials