10/5/2020 - By Matt Gregg

As we “press on” through 2020, most of you have heard about or even observed some of the devastation out west from the many forest fires. It’s been absolutely tragic to see the loss, damage and displacement caused by those fires, and our thoughts go out to all of those affected. Unfortunately, one thing that’s been seriously impacted by the fires is the supply for perennial ryegrass, Poa trivialis and tall fescues. Many seed production facilities are without electricity and university certification labs are closed, which has led to many seed suppliers facing large-scale shipment delays. With these delays, many turf managers are at risk of missing the application window, leading some to elect not to overseed in 2020.

So, if you’re in that group electing not to overseed in 2020, you do have other options. Take a look at this list below for viable options available to help you achieve a desirable turf quality through the cooler months even without overseeding!

• Increase Fe and Mn levels: I know some of you like the “leaner” green look, however, please try to move the Fe and Mn levels to about 0.018 lbs. on Bermudagrass and 0.015 lbs. on Bentgrass/Zoysiagrass. It’s all about photosynthesis right now for carbohydrate reserves, so try to enhance the leaf tissue color by using these minor nutrients. Harrell’s MAX® IronMn Mg is a great option to get that bump of Fe and Mn.
• Incorporate PAR® SG into a weekly or bi-weekly foliar application: During the fall and winter—with the shorter photoperiod—it’s all about plant color and photosynthetic efficiency. In order to maximize the available light during those shorter windows, use PAR® SG to help filter the correct usable light wavelengths. In return, the plant will use less energy to conduct photosynthesis, resulting in increased turf quality and color. Ideally, 10 to 16 oz./A will be adequate.
• Consider adding in Harrell’s Title Phyte®: The benefits here are two-fold. First, the available potash will help the plant increase K levels before the onset of dormancy. Second, the “Phosphite” will stimulate internal plant defense(s) to help protect against biotic and abiotic stresses that the winter months may present.
• Build root mass NOW: The plant health of your putting surfaces will NEVER be any stronger coming out of winter than it was going in. You want to do everything you can NOW to build root mass going into winter. To do that, make sure that Harrell’s Bio-MAX® 4-0-0 and Harrell’s EarthMAX® Organic is in every foliar/soil app.

Additional Dormant Color Options

In regions that face extreme temperatures and experience the full effects of plant dormancy, many superintendents still want to provide that color contrast “wow” factor without overseeding. Fortunately, many formulation advancements have been made in the last several years allowing superintendents to apply a “Liquid Overseed” to their fairways and tees. Harrell’s Dormant Green® Plus provides those turf managers with such an option. When applied at a rate of 2 to 3 gallons/A, it provides a uniform, dark, lush green color to the desired turf area, and it can be a cost-effective coloring solution for those seeking winter-time color on dormant fairways and tees. If you’re looking into a “Liquid Overseed” with Dormant Green® Plus this season, please consider the following guidelines for success:

• Treat this application independently; do not mix minor nutrients or any other products in the tank.
• If the turf is completely straw colored, it’s best to create a green base. Apply Harrell’s PAR® SG at a rate of 16-20 oz/A first to create the proper ‘canvas.’
• Make your initial Dormant Green® Plus application on dewy or frosted turf. This helps create color uniformity on the leaf blade. If there’s no dew or frost, and irrigation is available, pre-wet the turf.
• Do not mix Harrell’s PAR® SG in with Dormant Green® Plus.
• Start off with the 2-3 gal/A rate and follow up as necessary for desired color intensity.

So, if you’re being forced to call an audible on your overseed plans this year, consider some of these other options that are available to you. And feel free to reach out to your local Harrell's rep to learn more about which options might be best for your agronomic needs. They’re always available to help you develop a plan to maximize your success.