Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
irrigation is usually sufficient. The straw can be raked away several
weeks later or left to decompose naturally.
Post-germination Care
After germination, proper irrigation is the key factor in quick establish-
ment. If straw mulching was used, removal of at least a portion of it is
beneficial. Because of wind or water flow, straw tends to accumulate in
certain areas, blocking light that is essential for the quick growth of
seedlings. Seedlings should be also protected from the effects of traffic.
Placing ropes around newly seeded turf is usually effective.
Mowing
The first mowing should occur when seedlings reach a height one-third
greater than the anticipated mowing height. For example, if centipede-
grass turf is to be maintained at a 3-cm cutting height, seedlings should
be mowed when they reach a height of 4 cm. From this point mowing
should continue at standard frequency and should be guided by the same
'one-third rule' (see Chapter 6, this volume). Mowing less frequently
removes too much leaf area at one time and can set the plant back
severely.
Fertility
Shortly after the first mowing, a light application of nitrogen may sub-
stantially speed up turf establishment. Not more than 0.25 kg N/100 m
2
(25 kg/ha) should be applied and watered into the soil.
Irrigation
As previously mentioned, irrigation should be sufficient to prevent mois-
ture stress in young seedlings. The soil surface should be moist as long as
the root system remains poorly developed. Common cynodon develops a
fair root system in 3-4 weeks, centipede grass in 4-5 weeks and zoysia
grass in 6-8 weeks.
Weed control
In tropical climates, weeds may invade newly established turf massively.
To someone inexperienced, a great number of weeds and few visible
