Turfgrass Physiology And Ecology

In order to face new challenges and unique situations in turfgrass management, students need to understand why specific management practices work and how to adjust them based on plants' requirements. Explaining the physiological needs of turfgrass plants, this advanced textbook outlines the management techniques that help supply those needs. Chapters discuss a range of practices and methods to cope with stress under both normal and less than optimum conditions, providing the decision making tools for improvement based on changing environmental conditions. This book presents a unique perspective of both science and practical management principles that will be applicable to all turfgrass sectors.

A multibillion dollar industry that has tripled in the last ten years, turfgrass management plays an important role in landscaping, golf courses, and other sports surfaces. Proper management and cultural practices are crucial for the performance of these versatile grasses, creating a demand among scientists, researchers, and industry professionals

Sustainability is a key framework for analyzing biological systems—and turfgrass is no exception. It is part of a complex that encompasses turfgrass interactions with different environments and the suitability of different turfgrasses for specific environments. In addition to its biological role, turfgrass—in the form of lawns, green spaces, and playing surfaces—brings beneficial sociological effects to an increasingly urbanized society. This book presents a comprehensive overview of current knowledge and issues in the field of turfgrass research and management, including the genetics and breeding, the diseases and pests, and the ecology of turfgrasses, and will appeal to a broad spectrum of readers.

The Biology and Utilization of Grasses reviews current knowledge about grass biology, and it highlights the important role of grasses in human existence. It discusses many fundamental aspects of grass biology, including evolution and genetics, morphology, physiology, and ecology, with emphasis on the relationship of these basic concepts to the use of grasses for forage, turf, and rangelands. Comprised of 28 chapters, this volume begins with an overview of the evolution and genetics of the grass family, followed by a discussion on practical grass-breeding problems. The reader is also introduced to vegetative growth and development of seedlings and mature plants; the ecological aspects of grasses; soils and mineral nutrition in relation to grass growth; the effects of defoliation (moving or grazing); carbohydrate reserves; physiology of flowering; and grass seed production and culture treatments. Other chapters consider the role of polyploidy in the evolution and distribution of grasses; selection and breeding of grasses for forage and other uses; seedling vigor and seedling establishment; environmental modification for seedling establishment; the microclimate of grass communities; effects on turf grass of cultural practices in relation to microclimate; and competition within the grass community. This book will be of benefit to plant breeders, ecologists, botanists, and biologists.

Turfgrass Physiology and Stress Adaptation is a comprehensive reference work on the science and management of turfgrass plants. Examining how turfgrass plants grow, how they adapt to various environmental conditions, and how they are managed in areas with limited resources, this book approaches the subject from both a physiological and environmental standpoint. Encompassing both the basic science and applied practices for maintaining turf, Turfgrass Physiology and Stress Adaptation is a valuable resource for both scientific knowledge and practical technique. Divided into four sections, the book begins with an introduction to warm-season and cool-season turfgrass species. Other key topics include a comprehensive discussion on physiological and metabolic processes controlling turfgrass growth and development, an examination of the ways turfgrass plants cope with environmental stresses, and the potential role biotechnology will play in enhancing turf in the future. Aimed primarily at turfgrass educators, scientists, practitioners, and students, Turfgrass Physiology and Stress Adaptation is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in turfgrass science and management.

This Second Edition of Management of Turfgrass Diseases has been completely revised and updated to provide the latest information on maintaining a healthy turf and identifying turf diseases. Written by a leading international lecturer on turf grasses, the book covers cultural, genetic, biological, and chemical approaches to turf management and provides practical solutions to everyday problems. Fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases; black layer disease; and diseases caused by nematodes are addressed for all major grasses. You'll learn about cool and warm season grasses, growing conditions, new diseases, symptoms, and identification and management techniques. Valuable tips on irrigation, fertilization, and grass culture as well as 72 full-color photographs and more than 100 figures ensure this book will be dog-eared from use. It's almost like having your own private turfgrass consultant sitting right on your bookshelf. What's New in the Second Edition? This second edition features new grasses, new diseases, and the latest research findings and practices. You'll have the most up-to-date information available on these major grasses:

Based on the successful seminar offered through the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, Applied Turfgrass Science and Physiology cuts right to the authoritative information and know-how that will keep any turf area in optimal condition. Readers get an overview of turfgrasses, the characteristics of different varieties of turfgrasses; a look at plant responses to drought, temperature extremes, and shade stresses; and a comprehensive review of the latest information on how irrigation, mowing, fertilization, cultivation, and plant growth regulators and bio-stimulants affect turfgrass response to stresses and pests. Case studies and more than 165 illustrations reinforce text.

"...the most useful, practical book I have seen on the management of turfgrass insect pests...mandatory reading for turfgrass managers in golf, lawns, and sports..." --Dr. James B. Beard, International Sports Turf Institute, Inc. Written in clear, everyday language, Destructive Turfgrass Insects covers the biology, diagnosis, and control of virtually all the insects and mites that attack warm- and cool-season turfgrasses. No other source gives you as many practical and comprehensive management guidelines for use on golf courses, lawns, and sports fields.

The cultivation of various turfgrasses has evolved into a dynamic, multi-billion dollar industry. Yet, there is still a real lack of information available for those seeking to understand the complex science behind its growth. This book, edited by two knowledgeable and highly respected experts, presents for the first time a comprehensive study of the various types of turfgrasses, their genetic and biological makeup, and the specifics of when, how, where and why each species was adapted for use. The only book that deals specifically with the science behind the major types of turfgrasses, Turfgrass Biology will prove to be an invaluable, time-saving reference and research tool for professionals interested or engaged in the genesis of turfgrasses.