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Prediction of turf growth as a function of light and temperature under Nordic conditions

Summary

It is a challenge for superintendents to find the optimum maintenance of the turf to meet the conditions due to the daily weather and wear, and at the same time strengthen it for coming weather conditions. Superintendents normally have a good idea of how their ordinary maintenance programme (fertilization, irrigation, other maintenance) affect turf growth. But we are exposed to a change in climate with increasing temperatures, and to be able to evaluate and fine-tune the maintenance, the potential growth given by light and temperature at different times of the year must be known.  The aim of this study is to determine the potential growth and the winter hardening processes of three turf grass species as a function of temperature and light at different Nordic latitudes, with special emphasis on the autumn period. Based on the growth curves, recommendations for fertilization and other maintenance practices will be fine-tuned according to light and temperature conditions.

Contact
Karin Blombäck

Swedish University of Agricultural Science
Department of soil sciences

Co-applicants:
Mats Höglind, Biforsk Vest, Sœrheim, Norway

FACTS
Category: Turfgrass
Status: Finished
Project period: January 2007 to April 2009

Fundings (kSEK)

 

 

 2007    Total  
STERF    290 000   290 000

Outcome by 1 January 2009

The aim of the project is to find a method to predict the potential growth and winter hardening processes of three turfgrass species as a function of different light and temperature conditions from early spring to late autumn. Good knowledge of potential growth is the basis for planning a maintenance programme that is sound and sustainable as regards turfgrass quality and economic and environmental concerns.

A simulation model for grass growth is being used to estimate growth curves for three different turfgrass species (common names used elsewhere Agrostis stolonifera, Festuca rubra and Poa annua) for different climatic conditions. The model will be further developed to include winter hardening functions to enable modelling of the winter stress. Potential growth for five locations in the Nordic countries (Umeå, Västerås and Lund in Sweden, Særheim in Norway and Joensuu in Finland) is being modelled. The three different locations in Sweden represent different light and temperature conditions due to different latitudes. Særheim in Norway was selected to represent a more maritime climate, while Joensuu in Finland represents a more continental climate. The effect of different climate change scenarios will also be tested. Field data were obtained from Fullerö GK, Västerås, during 2007 and 2008 to be used for calibration of the model.

The outcome from the project will be a simulation tool to predict growth of the turfgrass. Based on the simulated growth curves, recommendations for fertilization and other maintenance practices can be fine-tuned according to light and temperature conditions.