Organic Management of Turfgrass: a Comparison of Composts in Monroe, Nassau, Tompkins, and Tioga Counties

Abstract

The application of composts for improvement of athletic fields is being demonstrated in four areas of the state: Monroe, Nassau, Tioga, and Tompkins County. Several composted materials were applied at varied rates in the spring and fall of 2000. Turfgrass quality, soil nutrients, disease suppressiveness, nematode populations and pest occurrence are being monitored. Significant differences among treatments were not seen in the first season, but are expected within the next two years. Valuable information was gained in 2000 on application techniques.