Turfgrasses Their Management and Use in the Southern Zone

"The sight of a turf restores my soul", claimed Southwestern folklorist J. Frank Dobie. Indeed, a manicured lawn or a lush playing field can significantly contribute to the aesthetic and environmental aspects of people's lives.In this well-organized and easy-to-read volume, turfgrass specialist Richard L. Duble combines thirty years of observation, experience, and research to unravel the complexities of turfgrass management for both amateurs and professionals. Turfgrasses is both a reference text and a user's guide to the production of fine turfgrasses on lawns, sports fields, golf courses, parks, and other turf sites. The book presents a thorough discussion of more than one hundred varieties and twelve species of warm-season turfgrasses.Chapters include the basic biology of the growth and development of turfgrass plants from seed to maturity, followed by a review of each type of turfgrass, including its origin, area of adaptation, use, management, and unique characteristics. Duble also explains specifications for turfgrass establishment, from site selection and seedbed preparation to maintenance practices, and presents special turfgrass cultural practices for both shaded and overseeded sites. Other chapter topics include symptoms and control methods for common diseases, including a helpful key to their identification; management practices for turfgrass insects such as white grubs, chinch bugs, sod web-worms, and armyworms; and turfgrass maintenance programs for golf greens and athletic fields.Color photographs, illustrations, and extensive tables focus on a variety of subjects ranging from water budgeting, turfgrass selection criteria, and mowing height and frequency toseeding rates, fertilizer calculations, and chemical controls.Homeowners, golf course superintendents, grounds supervisors, and park managers will appreciate the technical advice and practical suggestions available in this mustDuble, Richard L. is the author of 'Turfgrasses Their Management and Use in the Southern Zone', published 2001 under ISBN 9781585441617 and ISBN 1585441619.