TURF 435Turfgrass Nutrition

4 credits · Turfgrass · Penn State

Turfgrass Nutrition is a study in the nutrition and growth of turfgrass plants. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to distinguish the function and requirements of nutrients in the turfgrasses; describe how soil physical and soil chemical properties/conditions affect nutrient availability; select soil amendments to remedy soil chemical limitations; identify the best fertilizers and application methods to satisfy site-specific nutritional requirements; prepare nutrient management plans by appraising edaphic and environmental conditions and current cultural management and use; and will have discovered how best to sample soil, tissue, and water; submit samples, choose appropriate specialty tests, and interpret reports. TURF 435 compliments Turfgrass Edaphology, by examining soil chemical (rather than physical) properties as turfgrass growth parameters and addressing ameliorative measures in concept and operation. Students are introduced to the many classes of specialty fertilizers used in turfgrass management and their specific attributes are revealed through laboratory and field exercises. Students are evaluated through written testing of plant growth and nutrition concepts, interpretation of soil analysis, recommendations of fertilizer type and rate, and nutrient fate and management. TURF 435 has a substantial laboratory component.