Turfgrass Physiology

Catalog description

Lectures, reading assignments, and problems designed to develop student competency in plant physiology as it relates to turfgrass management strategies. TURF 850 Turfgrass Physiology (3)The emphasis of this course will be on the applied aspects of turfgrass physiology; however, in order for these to be useful in an applied manner, the science behind them must be fully understood so they may be properly implemented. This course is designed to provide turfgrass managers the background knowledge of physiological principles and concepts in order for them to make informed decisions as they implement new technologies in their cultural systems. Basic topics include the physiology of the germination process, seedling development,photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, seedhead development, and the physiological implications of the use of bio-stimulants, growth regulators, phytohormones, and antioxidants on turfgrass quality. Other topics that will be discussed include; carbohydrate metabolism and utilization, dormancy, and hardening.