Investigation of cool‐season species, seeding rate, and nitrogen fertilization in sod production: II. Management and shelf‐life.

Research is required on sod to explore the differences in management and postharvest practices to help inform sod producers and reduce information inefficiencies that affect the supply and demand of cool‐season turfgrass sod. Replicated field experiments were conducted in Indiana and Minnesota to quantify the effect of turfgrass species (strong creeping red fescue [Festuca rubra L. ssp. rubra Gaudin], Chewings fescue [F. rubra ssp. commutata Gaudin], tall fescue [F. arundinacea Schreb.], and Kentucky bluegrass [Poa pratensis L.]), seeding rate (1, 2, and 3 pure live seed (PLS) cm−2), and N fertilization (98, 196, and 294 kg N ha−1 yr−1) on growth rate and shelf‐life storage. Turf height measurements occurred at multiple timings to calculate growth rates of treatments. Sod was harvested in the spring and autumn and stored on pallets for either 24 or 72 h and then reinstalled in its previous location and treatment effects were assessed. Seeding rate had no effect on growth rate or transplant success of sod. Differences in growth rates demonstrate potential savings for sod growers through less mowing requirement when producing fine fescue sod. Treatments did not influence internal heating of sod rolls, which were higher than, but similar to, diurnal fluctuations of air temperatures. There were minimal differences among turfgrass species and N rates, which indicates strong creeping red fescue, Chewings fescue, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass sod stored for 24–72 h after a spring or autumn harvest in Indiana or Minnesota will not hinder transplant success. Core Ideas: Seeding rate had no effect on growth rate or transplant success of sod.Reduced growth rates occurred in fine fescues, especially Chewings fescue.Treatments did not affect sod storage temperatures, which were higher than air temperatures.After 24 or 72‐h storage, all treatments provided successful sod transplant.Green cover declined after storage, but increased to 80–95% by 14 d after installation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]