HBFOXJr
09-24-2001, 09:08 PM
I have a lot here about core aerating and seeding vs. slit seeding so I decided to run a small limited test.
Also decided to check out fertilizer differences of high N as we would normally apply at this time of year vs. high K low N as we are traditionally K poor and must add a significant amount.
Plots are 8'x25', sandy soil and full sun most of the day. Irrigation installed at seeding. Fertility level, moderate P & K. Low pH of 5.9, lab tested.
The slit seed came up faster and more even than the core aerated area. However it was thinned by dollar spot and growth seems stunted in areas even though all other factors are equal.
Disease did not seem to hurt the core aerated plot. Possibly the microbes brought up or other factors helped suppress disease.
At first the two types of fertilizer did not seem significant but now after 5 weeks past seeding the BIG N is pulling away. 1/4 lb of N at seeding from the 5-10-31 was just not enough to push development.
Surrounding turf remains untouched and untreated so we can appreciate knowing what we do is really working.
Next fertilization we will reverse the applications and see what happens for the rest of the fall and into spring. pH will be adjusted. No touch up seeding will be done to the plots.
I may start larger un-irrigated plots shortly with high N on slit and aerated seed.
Also decided to check out fertilizer differences of high N as we would normally apply at this time of year vs. high K low N as we are traditionally K poor and must add a significant amount.
Plots are 8'x25', sandy soil and full sun most of the day. Irrigation installed at seeding. Fertility level, moderate P & K. Low pH of 5.9, lab tested.
The slit seed came up faster and more even than the core aerated area. However it was thinned by dollar spot and growth seems stunted in areas even though all other factors are equal.
Disease did not seem to hurt the core aerated plot. Possibly the microbes brought up or other factors helped suppress disease.
At first the two types of fertilizer did not seem significant but now after 5 weeks past seeding the BIG N is pulling away. 1/4 lb of N at seeding from the 5-10-31 was just not enough to push development.
Surrounding turf remains untouched and untreated so we can appreciate knowing what we do is really working.
Next fertilization we will reverse the applications and see what happens for the rest of the fall and into spring. pH will be adjusted. No touch up seeding will be done to the plots.
I may start larger un-irrigated plots shortly with high N on slit and aerated seed.