As we get into the late summer months of August, September and even October, it becomes important to concentrate on the root zone development of your bent grass greens. With the extreme drought conditions that still exist, root zone development has taken a major hit in the past several months. Because of these drought conditions, most superintendents have concentrated on other key issues in helping maintain their bent grass greens through this difficult time period.

One of the key attributes in developing root mass and density for these late summer months is the use of high quality potassium (SOP). Another key ingredient in developing root mass and density is to make your watering practices more efficient. The more water that the superintendent can get deeper into the soil profile, the better his watering efficiency will be. In a study conducted by Dr. Keith Karnok of the University of Georgia, in terms of total root length, turf grass treated with Cascade resulted in greater rooting length during the summer, when compared to the control. Under the conditions of this study, the data indicated that the decrease in soil hydrophobicity caused by the Cascade and subsequent increase in the volumetric soil moisture content, allowed the turf grass to produce more roots in the hydrophobic soil.

Precision Labs has just introduced a product that combines Cascade technology with a high quality potassium (SOP). The two components that comprise Cascade Plus Fertilizer perform well together, because the Cascade’s longevity will match or exceed that of the fertilizer. The

superintendent will get the most effective use of the potassium when applied with Cascade, because the potassium

will be made available quicker and deeper in the root zone for better development and density.

For those superintendents that just want to work with a wetting agent alone, now is a good time to take a look at Cascade Plus a liquid or granule. Because of the severe conditions that exist in Colorado and New Mexico, most golf courses are just trying to survive this summer and pray for some type of moisture from Mother Nature. With water restrictions in place, using Cascade Plus can help you not only survive the rest of the summer, but provide a soil profile of moisture that will help you get through the winter as well.

Cascade Plus will help the superintendent make more

effective use of the water that is available. Cascade helps get more water down to the root system for improved uptake. Most superintendents will see a dramatic reduction in their localized dry spots and a much improved appearance in the quality of their greens. By following the recommended rates of 2—8 oz. applications, most superintendents will not only survive the summer months, but prosper through the winter as well.

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