EFFECT OF VITERRA 2 HYDROGEL ON GERMINATION, SEEDLING GROWTH AND SOD ESTABLISHMENT OF KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS

Abstract

The effect of Viterra 2 Hydrogel (VH) on turfgrass establishment was investigated. The germination rate of Baron Kentucky bluegrass seeds was reduced at all VH concentrations with the greatest reduction occurring at the highest application rate. Growth of Baron Kentucky bluegrass seedlings was unaffected at rates of VH up to 50 kg/100 m 2 . In the greenhouse, sod establishment and survival under drought conditions was improved by VH. In the field the application of VH to the sod surface after it was laid resulted in more live grass per sod than did the addition of VH to the surface of the soil or incorporation into the soil before the sod was laid. When VH is applied to the sod after laying, uniform distribution of VH is necessary if turf injury is to be avoided.