Golf course superintendents want their putting green leaf blades to be “needle-like” and to stand up for better playability, constantly working to avoid weak, thin turf or succulent, wide leaf blades that fall over. This can best be achieved when the plant is maximizing its metabolic efficiency.
A key factor to maintaining the desired results, is controlling the correct amount of total absorbed nitrogen in the plant. Putting green turf is managed for controlled and consistent growth; therefore, they should not be treated like agricultural crops that are “yield” driven.
Maximizing Metabolic Efficiency
in finely-mowed turf
The “IDEAL” amount of total absorbed nitrogen in the plant is influenced by the current weather conditions. Therefore, the required total amount changes through the growing season and adjusting supplemental inputs will help maximize metabolic efficiency.
To determine if the plant requires more nitrogen inputs, you can look at the formula:
Nitrogen is a “luxury consumption” nutrient, meaning the plant will take in as much as is available. Foliar feeding can offer more protection and precision to the 7–14-day supplemental requirement when compared to granular fed nitrogen, so the plant always has the right amount for optimal playability.