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improve heat and drought stress when applied sequentially prior to anticipated stress. Both increased root development and turf quality have been realized (2). Most recently, formulations containing potassium phosphite have been shown to improve turf performance in the pres- ence of the causal agents of pythium, anthracnose and pink snow mold (1). These data offer compelling evidence that value-added foliar fertilizer products can offer significant benefit when managing potentially devastating pests and also provide unsurpassed nutrient uptake efficiency to optimize agronomic perfor- mance and visual quality of the turf. Improved Tools The science of turfgrass foliar nutri- tion has developed considerably in the past 10–15 years through the work of innovative companies and funding provided to independent researchers. These efforts have provided golf course managers tools to perform multiple func- tions. Well rounded foliar fertilizers with proven and tested formulations provide the value-added component that extends beyond traditional plant nutrition and Editor's Note: Matt Nelson is agronomist and international marketing manager for Grigg Brothers Foliar Fertilizers. Visit www.griggbros. com to find out more about the products and research, and why turf managers identify Grigg Brothers products as proven, tested and trusted. Foliar fertilizers are used to provide con- sistent mineral nutrition to turfgrass plants and maintain consistent playing quality in golf and sports turf settings. contain compounds that help plants deal with a myriad of stresses, both biological and environmental. These products also deliver exacting amounts of nutrient in easy to use, compatible forms that are safe for the turf and the environment. While managing golf and sports field turf can be a challenging and closely scrutinized horticultural activity involving many different management inputs and expertise, the use of value-added foliar fertilizers can be one aspect of enhanced sustainability. WT References: (1). Dempsey, J., Ian D. Wilson, Peter T. N. Spencer-Phillips & Dawn L. Arnold. 2012. Suppression of Microdochium nivale by potassium phosphite in cool-season turfgrass- es, Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica, Section B - Soil & Plant Science, 62:sup1, 70-78 (2). Ervin, E. and Zhang. 2004. Crop Science, 44:1737-1745 (3). Kauffman III, G.L., D.P. Knievel, and T.L. Watschke. 2007. Effects of a bio- stimulant o the heat tolerance asso- ciated with photosynthetic capac- ity, membrane thermostability, and polyphenol production of perennial ryegrass. Crop Science, 47:261-267. Winter 2012 17