The science behind great playing surfaces

Turfgrass research, field observations, and practical management advice, published continuously and archived for two decades.

Latest updates

Nov 11, 2026 Members only

Too much nitrogen

The Organic Fertilizer Surprise video on our YouTube channel shows typical symptoms of excessive nitrogen (N) application. The video also explains some of the…
Nov 8, 2026 Members only

Photo of the week: midday fairway shade

I took this photo at 12:39 p.m. last week at Columbia Edgewater Country Club, where PACE Turf member Jim Myers, CGCS, is the Director…
Nov 7, 2026

CANVAS 2026

Micah and Maggie were both in Portland for the CANVAS 2026 conference. Many of you participated in the International Turfgrass Research Conference (ITRC) in…
Nov 6, 2026 Members only

The 9-to-3 solar window

Here's a simple way to check if shade is going to have a meaningful impact on turf performance in an area. Observe the area…
Nov 1, 2026 Members only

Correcting topdressing rate for overthrow

I visited a golf course while the greens were being topdressed. I asked the superintendent what the sand application rate was. He thought for…