Effects of Nitrogen, Growth Regulators, and Mowing Height on Ball Lie in TifSport Bermudagrass

Abstract

Two separate field studies were conducted to determine the effects of mowing height, nitrogen rates, and plant growth regulator use on golf ball lie in ‘TifSport’ hybrid bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon × C. transvalensis). The first experiment was conducted at the University of Georgia, Coastal Plain Experiment Stations, Tifton, GA. Factors at the Tifton location were nitrogen application rate (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 lbs per 1,000 ft²per month) applied with and without trinexapac-ethyl (TE) or TE plus flurprimidol, and mowing height (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 inches). The second project was conducted at the University of Arkansas Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Fayetteville, AR. Factors at the Fayetteville location included nitrogen application rate and mowing height (utilizing the rates and heights described above), as well as TE application frequency (monthly, every other week, and a control). Results from these two studies suggest that a 0.5-inch mowing height will improve ball lie in TifSport bermudagrass. The Georgia research determined that 1.0 lb of N per 1,000 ft²per month in combination with TE will improve ball lie, while maintaining acceptable TifSport quality. On one data collection date, the Arkansas research observed improved ball lie values when TE was applied every other week or monthly to TifSport bermudagrass maintained at a 1.5-inch mowing height.