Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/410033
Page 70 COURSE CARE Creeping bentgrass plugged into the green after summer turf loss is shown. germination, it protects the seed- ling by positioning the crown and some leaf material slightly below the surface, below the wear and tear or mowing, traffic and top- dressing. Vertical mowing (ver- ticutting) does not ensure seed- soil contact like aerification even if carbide tip blades are used. It does not protect the seedling as well as aerifiaction. • Topdressing helps smooth the surface but can also severely damage new seedlings. If seed- lings are present when topdress- ing, apply at light enough rates where it does not have to be drug in. • Water lightly and often to keep the seedbed moist. Reduce irri- gation frequency as root mass increases. Monitor root depth weekly and adjust irrigation fre- quency as necessary. • Limit traffic on newly seeded areas (golfers, golf carts, athletes) and consider roping off areas if possible. However, mow the areas as soon as a few of the leaf blades reach the projected mow- ing height. • Consider raising the mowing height to further encourage seed- ling survival. A good mowing height for bentgrass seedlings on putting greens is between 0.150 and 0.250 inches. • Preventative pythium and damp- ing off fungicides are important now that we are into the heat and