Chapter 2. Perennial and Intermediate Ryegrass Varietal Effect on Overseeded Bermudagrass. Fairway Performance and Post Dormancy Transition

Transcription

1 Chapter 2 Perennial and Intermediate Ryegrass Varietal Effect on Overseeded Bermudagrass Fairway Performance and Post Dormancy Transition Introduction Conventional plant breeding as defined by Vogel and Sleper (1994) is the manipulation of a species genes such that desired genes be packaged together in the same plant and as many deleterious genes as possible are excluded. The legal definition of a turfgrass variety in the United States, determined by provisions of the Plant Variety Protection Act, 1994 (PVPA) requires an applicant variety be new, stable, uniform, and distinct. Although this definition contains distinct, the long history of plant breeding has addressed improved performance (Brilman, 1997). Some of the first perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) varieties to be marketed in the United States were noted for poor to medium or medium to good tolerance to heat and drought, as well as poor to medium tolerance to low temperature stress. This included Norlea, released in 1958; Linn, released in 1961; NK-100, released in 1962; Pelo, released in 1964; and Manhattan, released in 1967 (Hanson, Juska, and Burton, 1969; Beard, 1973). Breeders have attempted over the last thirty plus years to improve upon the weak performance of perennial ryegrass under these high and low temperature conditions. Over time, the success of the breeders has become evident with improved perennial ryegrass varieties (e.g., Palmer III, Secretariat, Brightstar II, Calypso II, Pennant II, and Monterey ) just to name a few, (NTEP Progress Report, 1998). Improved performance enables perennial ryegrass to persist better in areas where it is used as a perennial turf. However, if improved varieties are used for seasonal 127

2 performance in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) winter overseeding programs, they may not transition out in the spring and summer as well as weaker, less hardy varieties. Research efforts from grass breeders has led to a resurgence in attempts to develop grasses that will transition well in winter overseeding programs such as intermediate ryegrasses (L. perenne x L. multiflorum). The goal was to develop a plant with perennial ryegrass characteristics (e.g., darker color, finer texture, and slower growth habit) and the annual ryegrass trait of transitioning out with the onset of warmer temperatures. Originally, the concept worked but not to perfection. Over time, the first intermediate plants had a tendency to revert back to the annual ryegrass traits of lighter color, coarser texture and the desired perennial ryegrass traits were lost. However, breeding efforts from Pickseed USA of Tangent, Oregon has developed a new intermediate ryegrass variety ( Transist ) for use in bermudagrass winter overseeding programs. This variety is currently holding its perennial traits, but also offers a truer spring season transition to bermudagrass when compared to perennial ryegrass (Schmitz, 1999). Objectives The objectives of this study were to: 1.) Determine the winter performance differences between perennial and intermediate ryegrass varieties overseeded into bermudagrass fairways. 2.) Evaluate perennial and intermediate ryegrass varieties overseeded into bermudagrass fairways for post dormancy transition and influence on bermudagrass post dormancy regrowth. 128

3 Materials and Methods In the summer of 1998, over 100 different seed companies were solicited to supply seed for a unique type of test. The test examined differences in bermudagrass post dormancy (PD) transition of overseeded cool-season grass varieties. The request was for seed of perceived weaker, less hardy types of ryegrasses (Lolium sp.). Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), intermediate ryegrass (L. perenne x L. multiflorum), colonial bentgrass (Agrostis capillaris L.), and a perennial ryegrass/rough bluegrass (Poa trivialis) mixture (85/15 percent wt/wt, respectively) were overseeded separately in September 1998 at two locations. The cool-season species were overseeded into a mature Brute bermudagrass fairway on Boonsboro Country Club near Lynchburg, Virginia and into a mature Vamont bermudagrass fairway on Hermitage Country Club immediately west of Richmond, Virginia. Lynchburg (197.5 meters above sea level) and Richmond (45.7 meters above sea level) are considered transition zone climates. The grasses at each site were overseeded by hand at 448 kg ha -1 with the exception of the colonial bentgrass, which was seeded at 112 kg ha -1. The experiment consisted of thirty varieties of perennial ryegrass, three intermediate ryegrasses, one colonial bentgrass, one perennial ryegrass/rough bluegrass mixture (85/15 percent wt/wt, respectively), and one unseeded control plot. Each site was randomized and replicated differently. Lynchburg Location The Lynchburg site was Brute bermudagrass growing on a fine, kaolinitic, thermic Typic Kanhapludult (Cecil fine sandy loam) with seven to fifteen percent slope, located on the former number ten fairway of Boonsboro Country Club. These plots were established adjacent to the overseeding rate and trinexapac-ethyl study conducted in and repeated in , separated by a 1.2 m buffer strip. The experiment 129

4 consisted of thirty-six variables with three replications (Table 2.1). Plot size was 1.2 m x 1.8 m with a total of 108 plots arranged in a randomized complete block design. The soil test report (analyzed by the Virginia Tech soil testing laboratory) from the site prior to the study revealed the following: ph = 5.3, P = 13 ppm, K = 104 ppm, Ca = 612 ppm, Mg = 114 ppm. On September 11, 1998 fertilizer was applied at 12.2, 24.4, 73.2, and 24.4 kg ha -1 of urea and ammoniacal nitrogen, phosphate, potash, and iron respectively. A fenarimol application was made on the same day at 1.5 kg a.i. ha -1 as a preventative application for bermudagrass spring dead spot and the site was irrigated. The plots were seeded by hand September 25, The site received a daily irrigation cycle until approximately all seed had germinated. Subsequent irrigation was applied as needed to prevent severe moisture stress. The Lynchburg site was mowed at 1.6 cm three times weekly with a reel mower (Toro, 6500-D) and clippings returned. On October 30, 1998, plots were fertilized with 12.2, 24.4, 73.2, and 24.4 kg ha -1 of urea and ammoniacal nitrogen, phosphate, potash, and iron respectively and irrigated. The plot area received a preemergent herbicide application that consisted of a fertilizer component on April 8, The herbicide, oxadiazon, was applied at 3.4 kg a.i. ha -1 and the fertilizer carrier supplied 36.6 kg ha -1 of slowly available methylene urea nitrogen. Richmond Location The Richmond site was Vamont bermudagrass growing on a fine, kaolinitic, thermic Typic Kanhapludult (Appling fine sandy loam) with two to seven percent slope, located on the 8th fairway of the Manakin golf course at Hermitage Country Club. The experiment repeated the Lynchburg study with thirty-six variables and four replications (Table 2.1). Plot size was 1.8 m x 1.8 m with a total of 144 plots arranged in a randomized complete block design. 130

5 Table Treatments for Lynchburg and Richmond variety field trials. Trt # Variety Overseeded Species Seed Rate* 1 Derby Supreme Perennial ryegrass Essence Perennial ryegrass Allsport Perennial ryegrass Midway Intermediate ryegrass Nighthawk Perennial ryegrass Goalkeeper Perennial ryegrass Caddieshack Perennial ryegrass Top Gun Perennial ryegrass Shinning Star Perennial ryegrass Sonata Perennial ryegrass Bullet Perennial ryegrass Envy Perennial ryegrass Saturn Perennial ryegrass Phantom (A7) Perennial ryegrass Pearl Perennial ryegrass SR 4330 Perennial ryegrass Premier II Perennial ryegrass Pinnacle Perennial ryegrass Barlennium Perennial ryegrass Cutter Perennial ryegrass Sunshine Perennial ryegrass Transist Intermediate ryegrass Vantage Perennial ryegrass Omni Perennial ryegrass Penguin Perennial ryegrass O389 Perennial ryegrass Alliance II Perennial ryegrass Evening Shade Perennial ryegrass Sunrye Perennial ryegrass Charger Perennial ryegrass G Intermediate ryegrass Palmer II Perennial ryegrass Quickstart Perennial ryegrass Brightstar II/Winterplay P. ryegrass/poa trivialis Tiger Colonial bentgrass Control 0 * Seed rates are kg ha -1 Brightstar II/Winterplay mix is 85/15 percent wt/wt, respectively. 131

6 A soil test report of the 8th fairway (conducted on September 24, 1998 by A&L Eastern Agricultural Analytical Laboratories, Inc., Richmond, Virginia) revealed the following: ph = 6.0, P = 22 ppm, K = 46 ppm, Ca = 325 ppm, Mg = 62.5 ppm, organic matter = 4.8 percent, and cation exchange capacity = 10.7 meq 100g -1. According to maintenance records supplied by Hermitage Country Club, the site was treated with trinexapac-ethyl at 0.15 kg a.i. ha -1 on September 14, On September 25, 1998, the site was fertilized with 36.6, 4.1, 5.4, 2.7 kg ha -1 urea and ammoniacal nitrogen, phosphate, potash, and iron respectively. The plots were seeded by hand September 30, 1998 and irrigated daily until approximately all seed had germinated. All subsequent irrigation and management practices were under the supervision of Hermitage Country Club. The Richmond site was mowed at 1.3 cm three times weekly with a lightweight fairway reel mower (Ransomes 250). Mowing during the winter was performed as needed. Irrigation was supplied on an as needed basis during the growing season, typically one to two times per week. Plots were fertilized with 47.8, 10.3, 29.1 kg ha -1 urea and ammoniacal nitrogen, phosphate, and potash respectively on October 27, Plots were fertilized with 41.0, 8.8, 24.9 kg ha -1 urea and ammoniacal nitrogen, phosphate, and potash respectively on December 16, The plot area received a preemergent herbicide application on a fertilizer carrier March 29, The herbicide, oxadiazon, was applied at 3.4 kg a.i. ha -1. The fertilizer carrier supplied 63.5 kg ha -1 of slowly available methylene urea nitrogen. The plot area was sprayed with trinexapacethyl on April 12, June 15, and July 19, 1999 at 0.19, 0.10, and 0.14 kg a.i. ha -1 respectively. The plots were fertilized with 36.6 kg ha -1 nitrogen (ammonium sulfate) and irrigated on June 7, The plot site was sliced once using a tow behind aerifier equipped with slicing blades on June 30,

7 Data Recorded Observations recorded throughout the duration of this study consisted of visual ratings of overall turfgrass quality, turf color, density, and bermudagrass PD transition. Quality data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = brown or dead turf, and 9 = dense, green, uniform turf). A rating of 5 would be indicative of acceptable golf course fairway turf. Turf color data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = brown turf, and 9 = dark green turf). A rating of 5 would be indicative of acceptable turf color for a golf course fairway. Density data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = no turf, and 9 = dense, uniform turf). Bermudagrass PD transition was estimated as a percentage of the total plot area that was actively growing, green bermudagrass. The plots at both locations were rated monthly from November 1998 to August 1999 for turf color, density, and overall turf quality and bimonthly from April 1999 to August 1999 for transition from the overseeding to bermudagrass. All data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) procedures using the SAS (SAS, 1985) system. Significantly different treatment means were separated using Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. Results Mean daily temperatures for the months of September, 1998 through August, 1999 compared to the thirty year mean daily normals for both locations demonstrates Richmond s warmer climate (Table 2.2). Both Richmond experienced and Lynchburg experienced temperatures well above normal during the critical winter months of December 1998, January and February Temperatures were below normal for the month of March 1999, but returned to near or above normal for the duration of the study (August 1999). 133

8 Table 2.2 Thirty Year Mean Daily Temperature Normals ( o C) and Mean Daily Temperatures ( o C) for Lynchburg and Richmond, Virginia*. Lynchburg Temperatures Richmond Temperatures 30-Year Year Month Mean Normal Mean Daily Mean Normal Mean Daily Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug * Data supplied courtesy of National Weather Service, Blacksburg, Virginia. 134

9 Lynchburg Location The three intermediate ryegrasses ( Midway, Transist, and 30G ) transitioned to bermudagrass more readily than the perennial ryegrasses (Table 2.3). The bermudagrass PD transition of each overseeded intermediate ryegrass was not different from non-overseeded bermudagrass PD transition for any rating period from May 3 through August 20, The intermediate ryegrasses exhibited superior transitioning to bermudagrass than all other overseeded entries (except Tiger colonial bentgrass), as evident on June 3, However, Tiger colonial bentgrass was poorly established and this may have contributed to its excellent PD transition to bermudagrass. Bermudagrass PD transition in plots overseeded with perennial ryegrasses was vastly different from plots overseeded with intermediate ryegrasses or the control. Although most perennial ryegrasses transitioned to a bermudagrass population not statistically different from non-overseeded bermudagrass by August 20, 1999, plots overseeded with perennial ryegrasses exhibited a delayed or reduced transition when compared to overseeded intermediate ryegrass plots or control plots prior to the final rating. Overseeded perennial ryegrass plots with the greatest post dormant bermudagrass population was Omni (97.7 percent bermudagrass on August 20, 1999). Two other perennial ryegrasses transitioned to at least 97 percent bermudagrass on August 20, 1999; Top Gun and Brightstar II/Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture (85/15 percent wt/wt, respectively). There were several perennial ryegrasses that failed to transition to an acceptable post dormant bermudagrass population. These plots contained 70 percent or less bermudagrass in late August and included Nighthawk (70 percent bermudagrass), Goalkeeper (51.7 percent bermudagrass), Caddieshack (61.7 percent bermudagrass), and Barlennium (56.7 percent bermudagrass). The turfgrass quality of these overseeded grasses demonstrates grasses suitable for bermudagrass PD transition may not always possess the turf quality of the improved 135

10 Table Bermudagrass Post Dormancy Transition as Influenced by Overseeded Cultivars in Lynchburg, Virginia. Variety Post Dormancy Transition 21 Apr. 3 May 20 May 3 June 18 June 6 July 22 July 4 Aug. 20 Aug. Derby Supreme 2.0 b* 6.7 bc 8.3 ab 40.0 bcd 58.3 abcd 63.3 abc 50.0 abc 66.7 abc 90.0 abc Essence 2.0 b 5.0 c 6.7 ab 26.7 d 35.0 bcd 36.7 bc 46.7 abc 61.7 abc 80.0 abc Allsport 2.0 b 6.7 bc 6.7 ab 26.7 d 41.7 abcd 35.0 bc 51.7 abc 56.7 abc 86.7 abc Midway 2.0 b 10.0 abc 18.3 a 55.0 abc 76.7 ab 81.7 a 91.7 a 97.0 a 99.3 a Nighthawk 2.0 b 6.7 bc 5.0 b 23.3 d 28.3 cd 26.7 c 38.3 bc 50.0 abc 70.0 abc Goalkeeper 2.0 b 5.0 c 5.0 b 23.3 d 25.0 d 30.0 bc 36.7 bc 28.3 bc 51.7 c Caddieshack 2.0 b 5.0 c 8.3 ab 25.0 d 31.7 bcd 30.0 bc 41.7 abc 43.3 abc 61.7 bc Top Gun 2.0 b 6.7 bc 5.0 b 30.3 d 41.7 abcd 56.7 abc 61.7 abc 80.0 abc 97.0 ab Shinning Star 2.0 b 5.0 c 10.0 ab 33.3 d 61.7 abcd 71.7 ab 75.0 abc 81.7 abc 94.3 ab Sonata 2.0 b 5.0 c 8.3 ab 25.0 d 26.7 cd 33.3 bc 53.3 abc 58.3 abc 91.0 ab Bullett 2.0 b 5.0 c 10.0 ab 26.7 d 40.0 abcd 40.0 abc 58.3 abc 68.3 abc 87.7 abc Envy 2.0 b 5.0 c 13.3 ab 28.3 d 61.7 abcd 53.3 abc 61.7 abc 63.3 abc 84.3 abc Saturn 2.0 b 5.0 c 5.0 b 25.0 d 50.0 abcd 43.3 abc 56.7 abc 71.7 abc 87.7 abc Phantom (A7) 2.0 b 6.7 bc 10.0 ab 28.3 d 40.0 abcd 43.3 abc 58.3 abc 71.7 abc 91.7 ab Pearl 2.0 b 6.7 bc 8.3 ab 26.7 d 35.0 bcd 45.0 abc 48.3 abc 56.3 abc 76.7 abc SR b 5.0 c 5.0 b 23.3 d 25.0 d 36.7 bc 36.7 bc 50.0 abc 81.7 abc Premier II 2.0 b 5.0 c 5.0 b 23.3 d 25.0 d 31.7 bc 38.3 bc 45.0 abc 76.7 abc Pinnacle 2.0 b 5.0 c 6.7 ab 31.7 d 40.0 abcd 45.0 abc 65.0 abc 68.3 abc 87.7 abc Barlennium 2.0 b 8.3 abc 8.3 ab 26.7 d 21.7 d 28.3 c 26.7 c 25.0 c 56.7 bc Cutter 2.0 b 5.0 c 6.7 ab 31.7 d 28.3 cd 38.3 bc 41.7 abc 58.3 abc 78.3 abc Sunshine 2.0 b 6.7 bc 6.7 ab 33.3 d 46.7 abcd 41.7 abc 63.3 abc 65.0 abc 91.0 ab Transist 2.0 b 8.3 abc 15.0 ab 73.3 a 76.7 ab 71.7 ab 91.0 a 92.0 ab 98.0 ab Vantage 2.0 b 6.7 bc 8.3 ab 35.0 cd 55.0 abcd 54.7 abc 61.7 abc 70.0 abc 85.0 abc Omni 2.0 b 5.0 c 6.7 ab 26.7 d 41.7 abcd 45.0 abc 51.7 abc 55.0 abc 97.7 ab Penguin 2.0 b 5.0 c 8.3 ab 26.7 d 43.3 abcd 45.0 abc 50.0 abc 56.7 abc 84.3 abc O b 5.0 c 8.3 ab 23.3 d 41.7 abcd 46.7 abc 55.0 abc 61.7 abc 89.3 abc Alliance II 2.0 b 5.0 c 8.3 ab 25.0 d 38.3 abcd 45.0 abc 48.3 abc 55.0 abc 78.3 abc Evening Shade 2.0 b 5.0 c 8.3 ab 26.7 d 50.0 abcd 38.3 bc 56.7 abc 63.3 abc 89.3 abc Sunrye 2.0 b 6.7 bc 10.0 ab 30.0 d 58.3 abcd 61.7 abc 65.0 abc 76.7 abc 93.7 ab Charger 2.0 b 5.0 c 10.0 ab 30.0 d 48.3 abcd 58.3 abc 75.0 abc 78.3 abc 93.3 ab 30G 2.0 b 13.3 ab 16.7 ab 60.0 ab 84.7 a 81.3 a 90.0 a 98.7 a 99.3 a Palmer II 2.0 b 6.7 bc 8.3 ab 26.7 d 36.7 bcd 51.7 abc 60.0 abc 66.0 abc 90.0 abc Quickstart 2.0 b 5.0 c 6.7 ab 30.0 d 46.7 abcd 48.3 abc 68.3 abc 70.0 abc 92.7 ab Brightstar II/Winterplay 2.0 b 5.0 c 10.0 ab 33.3 d 45.0 abcd 61.7 abc 68.3 abc 80.0 abc 97.0 ab Tiger 6.7 a 13.3 ab 15.0 ab 55.0 abc 78.3 ab 70.0 ab 86.7 ab 93.7 ab 99.3 a Control 6.7 a 15.0 a 18.3 a 58.3 ab 73.3 abc 73.3 ab 86.0 ab 95.3 a 99.3 a * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Brightstar II/ Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Tiger Colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Post dormancy transition is estimated as a percentage of the total plot area that was actively growing, green bermudagrass. 136

11 perennial ryegrasses (Tables 2.4a and 2.4b). Despite a mean turfgrass quality of six on January 14, 1999, Transist intermediate ryegrass exhibited unacceptable quality during the remainder of the winter and spring months due to inconsistent texture and a pale green color. Midway intermediate ryegrass never exhibited acceptable quality until after the turfgrass had transitioned to bermudagrass (July 22, 1999) while 30G intermediate ryegrass did exhibit the minimum level of acceptable quality (five) on January 14, 1999 but otherwise performed similarly to Midway displaying a coarse texture and light green color. The highest quality during the entire rating period was 7.7 on August 20, 1999 found in the unseeded controls and plots overseeded with intermediate ryegrasses due to a dense bermudagrass turf with no overseeded grasses remaining. Tiger colonial bentgrass had the lowest turf quality of all overseeded plots from November 19, 1998 through May 3, 1999 due to poor establishment and a thin canopy exposing dormant bermudagrass. The highest quality rating recorded for perennial ryegrass overseeded plots was seven. Caddieshack, Top Gun, Bullet, Envy, Premier II, Barlennium, Vantage, Omni, Alliance II, Palmer II, and Brightstar II/Winterplay all received turfgrass quality ratings of seven at least once during the spring months. Premier II averaged turfgrass quality ratings of seven for three consecutive rating periods (May 20, June 3, and June 18, 1999). The majority of the overseeded entries had acceptable turf color and there were few differences observed (Table 2.5). However, all three intermediates Midway, Transist, and 30G exhibited a pale green color during the winter and spring months ( Transist had acceptable turf color on January 14 and April 21, 1999). Turfgrass color data collected on June 3 and June 18, 1999 in the intermediate ryegrass, colonial bentgrass, and unseeded control plots were measuring bermudagrass color since little if any overseeded grass remained. Premiere II and Barlennium perennial ryegrasses 137

12 Table 2.4a Turfgrass Quality of Overseeded Cultivars in Lynchburg, Virginia. Variety Turfgrass Quality 19 Nov. 14 Jan. 5 Mar. 26 Mar. 21 Apr. 3 May 20 May 3 Jun. 18 Jun. 6 Jul. 22 Jul. 4 Aug. 20 Aug. Derby Supreme 4.0 a* 5.0 ab 5.0 ab 4.7 abc 5.7 abc 5.0 abcde 5.0 abcdef 5.7 abc 6.3 ab 4.7 NS 4.3 NS 5.0 ab 5.7 abc Essence 3.7 a 5.3 ab 5.7 ab 6.3 a 6.3 ab 5.7 abc 5.3 abcde 5.7 abc 6.3 ab ab 5.7 abc Allsport 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.3 ab 5.3 ab 5.7 abc 6.0 ab 6.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.7 a ab 5.0 bc Midway 4.0 a 4.0 bc 4.0 b 4.0 abc 4.0 cd 3.0 e 3.0 f 3.0 c 4.3 b a 7.7 a Nighthawk 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.7 ab 6.0 a 6.3 ab 6.0 ab 5.7 abcd 6.7 a 6.3 ab ab 4.7 bc Goalkeeper 4.0 a 5.3 ab 6.3 a 6.0 a 6.3 ab 6.7 a 6.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.7 a ab 3.7 c Caddieshack 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.7 ab 6.3 a 7.0 a 7.0 a 6.0 abc 6.7 a 6.7 a ab 4.7 bc Top Gun 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.7 ab 5.7 a 6.7 a 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 6.7 a 7.0 a ab 6.7 a Shinning Star 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.7 ab 6.0 a 6.3 ab 5.7 abc 4.3 bcdef 6.0 ab 6.7 a ab 6.7 a Sonata 4.0 a 6.0 a 6.0 a 6.0 a 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.3 ab ab 6.3 ab Bullett 4.0 a 5.0 ab 6.0 a 6.3 a 6.7 a 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a ab 6.3 ab Envy 3.7 a 5.3 ab 5.3 ab 5.0 abc 5.7 abc 5.7 abc 5.7 abcd 6.3 ab 7.0 a ab 5.3 abc Saturn 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.0 ab 4.7 abc 6.3 ab 5.3 abcd 5.3 abcde 5.7 abc 6.0 ab ab 5.7 abc Phantom (A7) 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.0 ab 4.3 abc 5.7 abc 5.7 abc 5.3 abcde 5.3 abc 6.3 ab ab 6.3 ab Pearl 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.0 ab 4.7 abc 5.7 abc 5.3 abcd 5.0 abcdef 6.0 ab 6.3 ab ab 5.3 abc SR a 5.3 ab 5.7 ab 5.7 a 6.7 a 6.0 ab 5.7 abcd 6.3 ab 6.0 ab ab 5.3 abc Premier II 4.0 a 5.7 a 6.0 a 6.0 a 6.7 a 6.7 a 7.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 a ab 4.7 bc Pinnacle 4.0 a 5.3 ab 6.0 a 6.3 a 6.7 a 5.7 abc 5.7 abcd 6.3 ab 6.7 a ab 5.7 abc * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. NS, not significant at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1, perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1, and colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Quality data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = brown or dead turf, 5 = acceptable golf course fairway turf, and 9 = dense, green, uniform turf). 138

13 Table 2.4b Turfgrass Quality of Overseeded Cultivars in Lynchburg, Virginia Continued from Table 2.4a. Variety Turfgrass Quality 19 Nov. 14 Jan. 5 Mar. 26 Mar. 21 Apr. 3 May 20 May 3 Jun. 18 Jun. 6 Jul. 22 Jul. 4 Aug. 20 Aug. Barlennium 4.0 a* 5.0 ab 6.0 a 6.3 a 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 7.0 a 6.7 a 6.7 a 4.0 NS 3.3 NS 3.0 b 3.7 c Cutter 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.7 ab 6.3 a 6.7 a 6.3 ab 5.7 abcd 6.7 a 6.7 a ab 5.7 abc Sunshine 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.0 ab 6.3 a 6.7 a 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.3 ab ab 6.0 ab Transist 4.0 a 6.0 a 4.0 b 4.0 abc 5.0 abc 4.3 bcde 4.0 cdef 4.7 abc 6.0 ab a 7.7 a Vantage 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.7 ab 6.0 a 6.0 abc 5.7 abc 5.3 abcde 6.3 ab 7.0 a ab 6.3 ab Omni 3.7 a 4.7 ab 5.7 ab 5.7 a 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 7.0 a 7.0 a ab 5.0 bc Penguin 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.3 ab 5.0 abc 5.7 abc 5.7 abc 5.7 abcd 6.3 ab 6.3 ab ab 5.3 abc O a 5.3 ab 5.7 ab 6.3 a 6.7 a 6.0 ab 5.7 abcd 6.7 a 6.7 a ab 5.7 abc Alliance II 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.3 ab 6.0 a 6.7 a 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 7.0 a 7.0 a ab 5.0 bc Evening Shade 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.3 ab 5.7 a 6.0 abc 6.0 ab 5.3 abcde 5.7 abc 6.3 ab ab 5.0 bc Sunrye 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.0 ab 5.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.0 ab 5.3 abcde 6.0 ab 6.7 a ab 6.7 a Charger 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.7 ab 5.7 a 6.0 abc 6.0 ab 5.0 abcdef 6.0 ab 6.3 ab ab 6.7 a 30G 4.0 a 5.0 ab 4.0 b 4.3 abc 4.3 bcd 3.7 cde 3.3 ef 3.7 bc 5.7 ab a 7.7 a Palmer II 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.7 ab 5.3 ab 7.0 a 6.3 ab 5.7 abcd 5.7 abc 6.3 ab ab 6.7 a Quickstart 4.0 a 5.7 a 5.7 ab 5.7 a 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 5.7 abcd 6.7 a 6.7 a ab 6.0 ab Brightstar II/Winterplay 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.3 ab 4.3 abc 6.3 ab 6.7 a 6.7 a 6.7 a 7.0 a ab 6.3 ab Tiger 2.0 b 2.7 cd 1.7 c 2.3 bc 2.3 d 3.7 cde 3.7 def 4.3 abc 5.3 ab ab 7.3 a Control 2.0 b 2.3 d 1.0 c 2.0 c 2.7 d 3.3 de 4.0 cdef 4.3 abc 6.0 ab a 7.7 a * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. NS, not significant at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1, perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1, and colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Quality data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = brown or dead turf, 5 = acceptable golf course fairway turf, and 9 = dense, green, uniform turf). 139

14 Table Turfgrass Color of Overseeded Cultivars in Lynchburg, Virginia. Variety Turfgrass Color 19 Nov. 14 Jan. 5 Mar. 21 Apr. 3 May 3 June 18 June Derby Supreme 6.0 ab* 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 abc 5.3 cdef 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Essence 6.7 ab 6.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 6.7 bcde 7.0 b Allsport 6.7 ab 7.0 a 6.7 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.3 ab Midway 5.0 b 4.3 d 4.0 cd 4.0 e 3.7 h 6.0 de 6.0 c Nighthawk 6.7 ab 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 6.7 bcde 7.0 b Goalkeeper 7.0 a 6.0 abc 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Caddieshack 7.0 a 6.7 ab 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.3 ab Top Gun 6.7 ab 6.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.3 ab Shinning Star 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 5.0 defg 6.7 bcde 7.0 b Sonata 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Bullett 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.7 ab 5.7 abcd 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Envy 6.0 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.3 ab Saturn 6.0 ab 6.3 ab 5.7 abcd 6.0 abc 5.7 cde 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Phantom (A7) 6.7 ab 6.7 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 ab 7.7 ab 7.3 ab Pearl 6.7 ab 6.7 ab 7..0 a 6.3 ab 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b SR ab 6.7 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 abc 5.3 cdef 6.7 bcde 7.0 b Premier II 7.0 a 6.7 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 ab 8.0 a 8.0 a Pinnacle 6.0 ab 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 5.3 cdef 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Barlennium 7.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 a 7.7 a 8.0 a 8.0 a Cutter 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Sunshine 6.7 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a 6.7 ab 6.0 bcd 7.3 abc 7.0 b Transist 6.0 ab 5.7 abcd 4.7 bcd 5.3 bcde 4.7 efgh 5.7 e 6.0 c Vantage 6.7 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 abc 6.0 abc 5.0 defg 6.7 bcde 7.0 b Omni 6.7 ab 6.7 ab 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 bcd 7.3 abc 7.3 ab Penguin 7.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 a 6.0 abc 6.3 bc 7.7 ab 7.3 ab O ab 6.0 abc 5.7 abcd 5.7 abcd 5.7 cde 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Alliance II 6.7 ab 6.0 abc 5.7 abcd 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Evening Shade 6.7 ab 6.7 ab 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Sunrye 7.0 a 6.0 abc 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Charger 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abcd 6.0 abc 5.7 cde 7.0 abcd 7.0 b 30G 6.0 ab 4.7 cd 4.0 cd 4.3 de 4.0 gh 6.0 de 6.0 c Palmer II 6.7 ab 6.3 ab 6.0 abc 6.7 ab 6.3 bc 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Quickstart 6.0 ab 6.0 abc 6.7 ab 6.0 abc 6.0 bcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 b Brightstar II/Winterplay 7.0 a 6.3 ab 6.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 ab 8.0 a 7.3 ab Tiger 2.0 c 5.3 bcd 3.7 d 4.7 cde 4.3 fgh 6.0 de 7.0 b Control 1.7 c 1.0 e 1.0 e 4.0 e 4.7 efgh 6.3 cde 6.7 bc * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Brightstar II/ Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Tiger Colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Turf color data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1= brown turf, 5 = acceptable turf color for a golf course fairway, and 9 = dark green turf). 140

15 exhibited the highest turfgrass color ratings during the spring months prior to bermudagrass PD transition. Both varieties received a color rating of eight in all three replications on both June 3 and June 18, The Brightstar II/Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mix (85/15 percent wt/wt, respectively) also received a color rating of eight in all three replications on June 3, There were no differences in turfgrass density of overseeded perennial ryegrasses in November, 1998 and March, April, and May, 1999 (Table 2.6). Tiger colonial bentgrass exhibited significantly lower density than the overseeded perennial ryegrasses for each of the five data collection periods. The intermediate ryegrasses ( Midway, Transist, and 30G ) had lower density than many perennial ryegrasses on May 3, 1999 due to turf decline with the onset of warmer temperatures. Richmond Location There were no post dormant bermudagrass transition differences among all entries on August 19, 1999 (Table 2.7). The three intermediate ryegrasses ( Midway, Transist, and 30G ) completely transitioned to bermudagrass, with 100 percent bermudagrass in all plots on August 19, The intermediate ryegrasses performed similarly as in Lynchburg, displaying superior transition to bermudagrass when compared to all other overseeded entries (with the exception of Tiger colonial bentgrass). This was evident on June 2, However, Tiger established poorly, as in Lynchburg and this may have contributed to its increased PD transition to bermudagrass. Many plots overseeded with perennial ryegrasses exhibited a delayed or reduced transition when compared to overseeded intermediate ryegrass plots or control plots prior to the final rating. Overseeded perennial ryegrass plots with the largest post dormant bermudagrass population were Shinning Star, Top Gun, and Essence with 100, 99.5 and 99 percent bermudagrass, respectively on August 19, Sonata was the only 141

16 Table Turfgrass Density of Overseeded Cultivars in Lynchburg, Virginia. Variety Turfgrass Density 19 Nov. 14 Jan. 5 Mar. 21 Apr. 3 May Derby Supreme 3.7 a* 4.7 ab 5.3 a 7.0 a 5.3 abcd Essence 3.7 a 4.7 ab 6.3 a 6.7 a 6.7 ab Allsport 3.3 a 4.3 b 5.3 a 6.7 a 5.3 abcd Midway 3.7 a 6.0 a 6.7 a 7.0 a 4.3 cd Nighthawk 3.7 a 5.0 ab 6.0 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc Goalkeeper 3.7 a 5.3 ab 6.0 a 7.0 a 6.0 abcd Caddieshack 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.3 a 7.0 a 7.0 a Top Gun 4.0 a 5.0 ab 6.7 a 7.0 a 6.7 ab Shinning Star 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.7 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc Sonata 4.0 a 5.0 ab 6.0 a 7.0 a 6.0 abcd Bullett 3.7 a 4.7 ab 6.0 a 7.0 a 6.7 ab Envy 3.7 a 5.0 ab 5.3 a 6.7 a 5.7 abcd Saturn 3.7 a 4.7 ab 5.7 a 7.0 a 5.3 abcd Phantom (A7) 3.7 a 5.0 ab 5.3 a 6.7 a 6.0 abcd Pearl 3.0 a 5.0 ab 5.0 a 6.7 a 5.7 abcd SR a 5.3 ab 6.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 a Premier II 4.0 a 5.3 ab 6.3 a 7.0 a 7.0 a Pinnacle 3.7 a 5.3 ab 6.7 a 7.0 a 6.7 ab Barlennium 4.0 a 5.0 ab 6.0 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc Cutter 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.7 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc Sunshine 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.7 a 7.0 a 6.0 abcd Transist 4.0 a 6.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 a 5.0 abcd Vantage 4.0 a 5.3 ab 6.0 a 7.0 a 6.7ab Omni 3.7 a 4.7 ab 5.3 a 6.7 a 6.3 abc Penguin 3.7 a 4.7 ab 5.3 a 6.3 a 6.0 abcd O a 5.0 ab 6.0 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc Alliance II 3.7 a 5.0 ab 6.3 a 7.0 a 6.7 ab Evening Shade 3.7 a 5.0 ab 5.7 a 6.7 a 6.0 abcd Sunrye 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.3 a 7.0 a 6.0 abcd Charger 4.0 a 5.0 ab 6.3 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc 30G 4.0 a 6.0 a 6.7 a 7.0 a 4.7 bcd Palmer II 4.0 a 5.0 ab 5.7 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc Quickstart 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.7 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc Brightstar II/Winterplay 4.0 a 5.3 ab 5.3 a 7.0 a 6.3 abc Tiger 1.0 b 2.3 c 1.7 b 2.7 b 4.0 d Control 1.0 b 1.0 c 1.0 b 2.7 b 4.0 d * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Brightstar II/ Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Tiger Colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Density data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1= no turf, and 9 = dense, uniform turf). 142

17 Table Bermudagrass Post Dormancy Transition as Influenced by Overseeded Cultivars in Richmond, Virginia. Variety Post Dormancy Transition 21 Apr. 7 May 19 May 2 June 18 June 6 July 22 July 4 Aug. 19 Aug. Derby Supreme 0.0 c* 2.8 b 4.3 b 37.5 e 67.5 c 77.5 ab 63.8 abcdefg 86.3 ab 98.5 NS Essence 0.0 c 4.3 b 5.5 b 28.8 e 76.3 abc 81.3 ab 72.5 abcdefg 92.5 ab 99.0 Allsport 1.0 c 4.3 b 5.5 b 45.0 cde 73.8 abc 85.0 ab 72.5 abcdefg 92.5 ab 98.5 Midway 1.8 c 2.0 b 11.8 b 70.0 abc 91.3 a 94.0 a 95.3 a 97.3 a Nighthawk 0.5 c 6.8 b 7.5 b 36.3 e 71.3 abc 83.8 ab 62.5 abcdefg 83.8 ab 97.0 Goalkeeper 0.5 c 5.5 b 8.8 b 31.3 e 66.3 c 75.0 ab 63.8 abcdefg 83.3 ab 95.0 Caddieshack 1.0 c 5.5 b 5.5 b 33.8 e 67.5 c 83.8 ab 65.0 abcdefg 85.0 ab 98.3 Top Gun 1.5 c 5.5 b 7.5 b 33.8 e 75.0 abc 86.3 ab 61.3 bcdefg 87.5 ab 99.5 Shinning Star 0.5 c 5.5 b 4.3 b 37.5 e 76.3 abc 86.3 ab 76.3 abcde 93.3 ab Sonata 0.5 c 6.3 b 6.3 b 33.8 e 63.8 c 81.3 ab 58.8 cdefg 75.0 ab 88.8 Bullett 0.5 c 3.5 b 4.3 b 36.3 e 63.8 c 73.8 ab 53.8 efg 78.3 ab 92.5 Envy 1.8 c 6.8 b 6.3 b 33.8 e 67.5 c 76.3 ab 57.5 cdefg 83.8 ab 95.3 Saturn 0.5 c 4.3 b 5.0 b 33.8 e 73.8 abc 77.5 ab 70.0 abcdefg 87.5 ab 98.5 Phantom (A7) 0.0 c 8.8 b 6.3 b 43.8 de 77.5 abc 83.8 ab 78.8 abcde 91.3 ab 98.0 Pearl 1.0 c 8.0 b 6.3 b 42.5 de 72.5 abc 83.8 ab 72.5 abcdefg 90.8 ab 98.8 SR c 4.3 b 5.0 b 35.0 e 68.8 bc 76.3 ab 55.0 defg 77.5 ab 92.8 Premier II 0.5 c 6.3 b 8.8 b 30.0 e 66.3 c 68.8 b 42.5 fg 72.5 ab 93.3 Pinnacle 0.0 c 6.3 b 4.3 b 37.5 e 70.0 abc 80.0 ab 75.0 abcdef 83.8 ab 93.3 Barlennium 0.5 c 8.8 b 8.8 b 32.5 e 65.0 c 75.0 ab 65.0 abcdefg 83.8 ab 95.0 Cutter 0.5 c 4.3 b 4.3 b 40.0 e 71.3 abc 85.8 ab 78.8 abcde 91.3 ab 98.3 Sunshine 0.0 c 4.8 b 6.3 b 37.5 e 76.5 c 85.0 ab 71.3 abcdefg 88.8 ab 97.0 Transist 1.3 c 2.8 b 6.3 b 71.8 ab 90.0 ab 90.0 ab 88.8 abc 98.0 a Vantage 0.0 c 4.8 b 5.5 b 42.5 de 76.3 abc 82.5 ab 78.8 abcde 90.0 ab 97.0 Omni 0.5 c 6.3 b 6.3 b 30.0 e 70.0 abc 76.3 ab 61.3 bcdefg 78.8 ab 91.3 Penguin 0.5 c 5.0 b 5.0 b 38.8 e 71.3 abc 78.8 ab 80.0 abcde 90.0 ab 98.8 O c 5.5 b 7.5 b 38.8 e 78.8 abc 82.5 ab 77.5 abcde 86.3 ab 95.3 Alliance II 0.5 c 4.3 b 6.8 b 42.5 de 70.0 abc 88.8 ab 72.5 abcdefg 89.5 ab 98.8 Evening Shade 0.5 c 6.3 b 4.3 b 43.8 de 73.8 abc 86.3 ab 76.3 abcde 90.8 ab 97.8 Sunrye 0.0 c 3.5 b 4.3 b 43.3 bcde 72.5 abc 81.3 ab 68.8 abcdefg 82.5 ab 92.0 Charger 0.0 c 6.3 b 6.3 b 40.0 e 72.5 abc 85.0 ab 62.5 abcdefg 81.3 ab G 1.0 c 2.8 b 2.0 b 67.5 abcd 91.3 a 90.0 ab 87.5 abcd 98.0 a Palmer II 0.5 c 7.5 b 6.3 b 35.0 e 68.8 c 85.0 ab 68.8 abcdefg 81.3 ab 92.5 Quickstart 0.0 c 6.3 b 6.3 b 38.8 e 66.3 c 83.8 ab 76.3 abcde 87.5 ab 98.5 Brightstar II/Winterplay 0.5 c 8.0 b 4.8 b 31.3 e 58.8 c 67.5 b 41.3 g 67.5 b 88.3 Tiger 13.0 b 13.5 b 13.8 b 50.0 abcde77.5 abc 76.3 ab 80.0 abcde 91.3 ab 97.5 Control 47.5 a 60.0 a 63.8 a 72.5 a 91.3 a 93.3 a 92.5 ab 97.3 a 99.0 * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. NS, not significant at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Brightstar II/ Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Tiger Colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Post dormancy transition is estimated as a percentage of the total plot area that was actively growing, green bermudagrass. 143

18 perennial ryegrass which failed to transition to at least a 90 percent bermudagrass population on August 19, 1999 (88.8 percent). Brightstar II/Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture (85/15 percent wt/wt, respectively) had the poorest transition to bermudagrass with only an 88.3 percent post dormant bermudagrass population on August 19, There were several perennial ryegrasses, which transitioned to over 90 percent bermudagrass on August 19 but had less than 80 percent bermudagrass present on August 4, These included: Bullett (78.3 percent bermudagrass August 4), SR4330 (77.5 percent bermudagrass August 4), Premier II (72.5 percent bermudagrass August 4), and Omni (78.8 percent bermudagrass August 4). No perennial ryegrass variety had greater than an 80 percent post dormant bermudagrass population by July 22, This demonstrates perennial ryegrasses that are perceived to be weaker persisting do indeed persist well into summer, even in a year favorable for bermudagrass development. The turfgrass quality comparisons demonstrate that grasses suitable for bermudagrass PD transition may not always possess the turf quality of the improved perennial ryegrasses (Tables 2.8a and 2.8b). Both Midway and 30G intermediate ryegrasses had somewhat less than acceptable turf quality levels from November 20, 1998 through June 2, 1999 due to their coarse texture and pale green color. When the quality of both varieties reached acceptable levels by June 18, 1999, this was after transition to bermudagrass was near complete. Transist intermediate ryegrass quality was judged low from November 20, 1998 through March 27, 1999 due to inconsistent texture. Tiger colonial bentgrass performed similarly as in Lynchburg having the lowest quality levels of any overseeded plots due to poor establishment which allowed significant amounts of annual bluegrass to invade the bermudagrass canopy. The highest quality observed in the unseeded controls and the overseeded intermediate plots on August 19, 1999 was eight. This was due to the high percentage of bermudagrass 144

19 Table 2.8a Turfgrass Quality of Overseeded Cultivars in Richmond, Virginia. Variety Turfgrass Quality 20 Nov. 19 Jan. 27 Mar. 21 Apr. 7 May 19 May 2 Jun. 18 Jun. 6 Jul. 22 Jul. 4 Aug. 19 Aug. Derby Supreme 4.5 abc* 5.5 abc 5.8 abc 6.5 ab 6.5 ab 6.5 bc 6.5 ab 6.8 a 6.0 NS 4.8 NS 6.3 abc 7.5 a Essence 5.3 ab 6.0 ab 5.8 abc 6.8 a 6.5 ab 7.3 ab 6.5 ab 7.0 a abc 7.5 a Allsport 5.0 ab 6.0 ab 5.0 abcd 7.3 a 6.8 ab 7.3 ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a ab 7.3 ab Midway 3.0 de 4.0 cd 3.5 cde 4.3 c 4.0 cd 4.0 e 4.0 de 5.8 b a 8.0 a Nighthawk 5.3 ab 6.5 a 6.0 abc 7.0 a 6.8 ab 7.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 7.0 ab Goalkeeper 4.8 abc 5.5 abc 4.8 abcd 6.8 a 7.0 ab 7.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 7.0 ab Caddieshack 5.0 ab 6.0 ab 5.5 abc 7.3 a 7.0 ab 7.5 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 7.5 a Top Gun 5.0 ab 6.3 ab 5.5 abc 7.3 a 6.8 ab 7.5 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 7.8 a Shinning Star 5.3 ab 5.8 abc 5.8 abc 6.5 ab 6.8 ab 7.8 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a ab 8.0 a Sonata 4.5 abc 6.0 ab 5.5 abc 6.5 ab 6.5 ab 7.5 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 5.8 ab Bullett 4.5 abc 5.8 abc 5.3 abc 7.3 a 7.0 ab 7.8 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 6.8 ab Envy 4.8 abc 6.0 ab 5.5 abc 6.8 a 6.5 ab 7.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 6.5 ab Saturn 4.8 abc 5.8 abc 5.8 abc 6.8 a 6.5 ab 7.0 abc 6.5 ab 7.0 a abc 7.8 a Phantom (A7) 5.0 ab 6.0 ab 4.8 abcd 7.0 a 7.3 ab 7.5 ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a abc 7.3 ab Pearl 4.5 abc 5.8 abc 4.8 abcd 7.0 a 6.5 ab 7.0 abc 6.8 ab 7.0 a ab 7.8 a SR abc 6.3 ab 5.8 abc 7.0 a 7.0 ab 7.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 6.3 ab Premier II 4.8 abc 6.3 ab 5.0 abcd 7.3 a 7.8 a 7.8 ab 6.8 ab 6.8 a bc 6.5 ab Pinnacle 5.0 ab 6.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 ab 7.5 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 6.8 ab * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. NS, not significant at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1, perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1, and colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Quality data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = brown or dead turf, 5 = acceptable golf course fairway turf, and 9 = dense, green, uniform turf). 145

20 Table 2.8b Turfgrass Quality of Overseeded Cultivars in Richmond, Virginia Continued from Table 2.8a. Variety Turfgrass Quality 20 Nov. 19 Jan. 27 Mar. 21 Apr. 7 May 19 May 2 Jun. 18 Jun. 6 Jul. 22 Jul. 4 Aug. 19 Aug. Barlennium 5.0 ab* 6.3 ab 6.8 ab 7.5 a 7.8 a 8.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 a 6.0 NS 6.5 NS 6.5 abc 7.5 a Cutter 4.8 abc 6.0 ab 5.5 abc 7.3 a 7.0 ab 7.8 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 7.5 a Sunshine 5.0 ab 6.5 a 6.5 abc 7.0 a 6.8 ab 8.0 a 7.0 a 7.0 a ab 7.5 a Transist 4.0 bcd 4.5 bcd 3.8 bcde 5.0 bc 5.5 bc 5.8 cd 5.8 bc 5.8 b ab 7.8 a Vantage 4.5 abc 5.8 abc 6.0 abc 7.3 a 7.0 ab 7.8 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 7.0 ab Omni 5.0 ab 5.8 abc 6.0 abc 6.8 a 6.5 ab 7.5 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 6.3 ab Penguin 5.5 a 6.3 ab 6.5 abc 6.5 ab 6.3 ab 7.0 abc 6.8 ab 7.0 a abc 7.8 a O abcd 5.5 abc 6.3 abc 6.5 ab 6.8 ab 7.0 abc 6.5 ab 7.0 a abc 7.3 ab Alliance II 4.8 abc 5.5 abc 5.8 abc 6.5 ab 6.5 ab 7.3 ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a ab 7.8 a Evening Shade 4.8 abc 6.0 ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.0 ab 7.3 ab 6.8 ab 6.8 a ab 7.3 ab Sunrye 5.0 ab 6.3 ab 6.3 abc 7.5 a 7.0 ab 7.8 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 6.8 ab Charger 4.5 abc 6.0 ab 6.5 abc 7.0 a 6.8 ab 7.5 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 6.8 ab 30G 3.5 cd 4.0 cd 4.0 abcde 4.3 c 4.0 cd 4.3 e 4.0 de 5.8 b a 8.0 a Palmer II 5.0 ab 6.3 ab 5.8 abc 6.8 a 6.5 ab 7.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a abc 7.0 ab Quickstart 4.8 abc 6.3 ab 5.8 abc 7.0 a 6.8 ab 7.8 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a ab 7.3 ab Brightstar II/Winterplay 5.3 ab 6.3 ab 4.8 abcd 6.5 ab 7.0 ab 7.8 ab 7.0 a 7.0 a e 5.0 b Tiger 2.0 ef 3.0 d 2.0 de 4.0 c 3.8 cd 4.8 de 5.0 cd 6.5 ab ab 7.5 a Control 1.0 f 1.0 e 1.0 e 2.0 d 3.0 d 4.0 e 3.3 e 6.8 a ab 8.0 a * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. NS, not significant at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1, perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1, and colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Quality data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = brown or dead turf, 5 = acceptable golf course fairway turf, and 9 = dense, green, uniform turf). 146

21 regrowth as a result of the early complete transition of the overseeded grass. The highest quality of any perennial ryegrass overseeded plots during the winter and spring months prior to the onset of transition was eight. Barlennium and Sunshine perennial ryegrass both had turfgrass quality ratings of eight on May 19, Several perennial ryegrass varieties had turfgrass quality ratings of 7.8 the same day. All overseed entries except Midway and 30G intermediate ryegrass had acceptable turf color (Table 2.9). Midway and 30G displayed a light green color throughout the study. Transist intermediate ryegrass did have acceptable turf color for all turf color data collected from November 20, 1998 through June 18, Turfgrass color data collected after June 2, 1999 in the intermediate, colonial bentgrass, and unseeded controls were measuring bermudagrass since little if any overseeded grass remained. Phantom (A7), Premiere II and Barlennium perennial ryegrasses scored highest for turfgrass color. Each variety received a turf color rating of eight on several rating dates. Barlennium maintained a turf color of eight from April 21 through June 18, Premiere II had a turf color of eight from May 7 through June 2, Phantom (A7) exhibited a turf color of eight on April 21 and May 19, All perennial ryegrasses received a turf color rating no less than seven on June 18, Perennial ryegrass varieties were similar in density for all five observations (Table 2.10). Tiger colonial bentgrass did exhibit lower density than the perennial ryegrasses for the final four rating periods (bermudagrass was not fully dormant on November 20, 1998) due to its poor establishment. Midway and 30G intermediate ryegrasses were only less dense than the overseeded perennial ryegrass varieties on January 19, and May 19, Transist intermediate ryegrass was less dense than the overseeded perennial ryegrass varieties on May 19,

22 Table Turfgrass Color of Overseeded Cultivars in Richmond, Virginia. Variety Turfgrass Color 20 Nov. 19 Jan. 21 Apr. 7 May 19 May 2 June 18 June Derby Supreme 6.0 bc* 5.8 bcd 6.0 def 6.5 def 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Essence 6.0 bc 6.0 abcd 6.8 bcd 7.0 bcde 6.8 cd 7.0 c 7.0 bc Allsport 6.8 ab 6.8 ab 7.0 abcd 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Midway 4.0 e 4.3 f 4.0 g 4.0 g 4.0 c 4.0 f 6.0 d Nighthawk 6.3 ab 6.8 ab 6.8 bcd 6.8 cdef 7.3 abc 7.0 c 7.3 ab Goalkeeper 6.3 ab 6.0 abcd 6.5 bcde 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Caddieshack 6.3 ab 6.3 abc 6.8 bcd 7.3 abcd 7.3 abc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Top Gun 6.3 ab 6.0 abcd 7.0 abcd 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.3 ab Shinning Star 6.0 bc 5.8 bcd 6.3 cde 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Sonata 6.3 ab 6.3 abc 6.5 bcde 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Bullett 6.0 bc 6.3 abc 6.8 bcd 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Envy 6.0 bc 5.8 bcd 6.3 cde 7.0 bcde 6.8 cd 7.0 c 7.0 bc Saturn 6.0 bc 6.3 abc 6.3 cde 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Phantom (A7) 7.0 a 6.5 abc 8.0 a 7.8 ab 8.0 a 7.3 bc 7.5 ab Pearl 6.0 bc 6.5 abc 7.0 abcd 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc SR bc 6.0 abcd 6.5 bcde 6.8 cdef 6.8 cd 6.8 c 7.0 bc Premier II 7.0 a 6.5 abc 7.5 ab 8.0 a 8.0 a 8.0 a 7.8 ab Pinnacle 6.3 ab 6.5 abc 6.3 cde 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Barlennium 7.0 a 7.0 a 8.0 a 8.0 a 8.0 a 8.0 a 8.0 a Cutter 6.3 ab 6.0 abcd 6.8 bcd 7.0 bcde 7.3 abc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Sunshine 6.8 ab 6.8 ab 7.0 abcd 7.3 abcd 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.3 ab Transist 5.3 cd 5.5 def 5.5 ef 6.0 f 6.0 d 5.3 e 6.3 cd Vantage 6.0 bc 6.3 abc 6.3 cde 6.8 cdef 6.8 cd 6.8 e 7.0 bc Omni 6.0 bc 6.3 abc 6.8 cd 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.3 ab Penguin 6.3 ab 6.8 ab 7.3 abc 7.3 abcd 7.3 abc 7.0 c 7.3 ab O bc 6.3 abc 6.0 def 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Alliance II 6.0 bc 6.0 abcd 6.8 bcd 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Evening Shade 6.3 ab 6.5 abc 6.8 bcd 7.0 bcde 7.3 abc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Sunrye 6.5 ab 6.3 abc 6.8 bcd 6.8 cdef 7.3 abc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Charger 6.0 bc 6.3 abc 6.5 bcde 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.0 bc 30G 5.0 d 4.5 ef 4.3 g 4.8 g 4.5 e 4.5 f 6.0 d Palmer II 6.5 ab 6.5 abc 7.0 abcd 7.5 abc 7.8 ab 7.8 ab 7.3 ab Quickstart 6.0 bc 6.0 abcd 7.3 abc 7.0 bcde 7.3 abc 7.0 c 7.0 bc Brightstar II/Winterplay 6.0 bc 6.0 abcd 5.5 ef 7.0 bcde 7.0 bc 7.0 c 7.3 ab Tiger 4.0 e 5.0 def 5.0 fg 6.3 ef 6.0 d 6.0 d 6.3 cd Control 1.0 f 1.0 g 4.0 g 6.0 f 6.0 d 6.0 d 7.0 bc * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Brightstar II/ Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Tiger Colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Turf color data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1= brown turf, 5 = acceptable turf color for a golf course fairway, and 9 = dark green turf). 148

23 Table Turfgrass Density of Overseeded Cultivars in Richmond, Virginia. Variety Turfgrass Density 20 Nov. 19 Jan. 21 Apr. 7 May 19 May Derby Supreme 4.0 NS* 5.5 ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Essence ab 6.0 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Allsport ab 7.0 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Midway bc 7.8 a 6.8 a 5.8 de Nighthawk ab 7.3 a 7.0 a 7.3 abc Goalkeeper ab 6.3 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Caddieshack ab 7.5 a 7.0 a 7.0 abcd Top Gun ab 7.0 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Shinning Star ab 6.5 ab 7.0 a 7.8 ab Sonata ab 6.5 ab 7.0 a 7.0 abcd Bullett ab 7.3 a 7.0 a 7.5 ab Envy ab 7.0 ab 7.0 a 7.5 ab Saturn ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Phantom (A7) ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.5 ab Pearl ab 7.0 ab 7.0 a 7.0 abcd SR ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Premier II ab 7.3 a 7.0 a 7.5 ab Pinnacle ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.5 ab Barlennium ab 7.5 a 7.0 a 8.0 a Cutter ab 7.3 a 7.0 a 7.5 ab Sunshine ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.5 ab Transist ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 6.5 bcd Vantage ab 7.0 ab 7.0 a 7.5 ab Omni ab 6.3 ab 7.0 a 7.5 ab Penguin ab 5.5 abc 7.0 a 7.0 abcd O ab 7.0 ab 7.0 a 7.0 abcd Alliance II ab 6.3 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Evening Shade ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Sunrye ab 7.8 a 7.0 a 8.0 a Charger ab 6.8 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc 30G bc 7.5 a 7.0 a 6.0 cde Palmer II ab 6.3 ab 7.0 a 7.0 abcd Quickstart ab 7.0 ab 7.0 a 7.3 abc Brightstar II/Winterplay a 8.0 a 7.0 a 7.3 abc Tiger c 4.5 bc 4.3 b 5.8 de Control d 3.0 c 2.3 c 5.0 e * Means in the same column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Tukey s studentized range test at the 0.05 level of probability. NS, not significant at the 0.05 level of probability. All perennial and intermediate ryegrasses were overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Brightstar II/ Winterplay perennial ryegrass/poa trivialis mixture was overseeded at 448 kg ha -1. Tiger Colonial bentgrass was overseeded at 112 kg ha -1. Density data was recorded on a 1 to 9 scale (1= no turf, and 9 = dense, uniform turf). 149

24 Conclusions Trying to identify grasses suitable for overseeding over areas with different climates can be extremely challenging. Overseeded grasses that weaken early in the growing season transition readily to bermudagrass but may not provide consistent turf quality before bermudagrass can provide adequate quality. Grasses that provide the best turfgrass quality conditions throughout the winter and spring months, may not fully transition to bermudagrass till mid-summer. Intermediate ryegrass, with its annual ryegrass traits (annual life cycle, poor heat tolerance, etc.) transitioned in these studies as well as, if not better than non-overseeded bermudagrass due to the overseeded canopy preventing annual bluegrass from invading the dormant bermudagrass turf. Despite the earlier transition of intermediate ryegrass to bermudagrass, the poor overall turfgrass quality and color of today s intermediate ryegrasses in comparison to the improved perennial ryegrasses, reduces their acceptance in winter overseeding programs. However, in both Lynchburg and Richmond, overseeding with perennial ryegrass varieties delays transition to bermudagrass. The intermediate ryegrasses in this test ( Midway, Transist, and 30G ) appeared to possess annual ryegrass-like traits of lighter color, coarser texture and the desired perennial ryegrass-like traits seemed lacking. According to Schmitz (1999), Transist from Pickseed USA of Tangent, Oregon is a new intermediate ryegrass variety that is currently holding its perennial traits, but also transitioning to bermudagrass when it should. Transist did perform better than Midway and 30G and had acceptable color and quality in both locations. Predictable, early transition is a priority in the transition zone. Therefore intermediate ryegrasses should be considered for bermudagrass overseeding programs. If an intermediate ryegrass can be developed that possesses the transitioning characteristics of the three test entries and yet possesses phenotypic traits more closely similar to perennial ryegrass (i.e., finer texture, darker color, more dense canopy) it would certainly gain more acceptance in overseeding programs. This of course would require the industry to recognize that perennial ryegrass overseeding 150