Effect of mowing interval, aeration, and fertility level on the turf quality and growth of zoysiagrass( Zoysia japonica Steud.)

깎기주기, 통기작업, 시비수준 및 비료종류가 한국 잔디의 품질 및 생육에 미치는 영향

This study was conducted to provide basic understandings for proper management of zoysiagrass fairways. Mowing intervals of 2, 4 and 6-days, with and without aeration were compared at two fertility levels. Turfgrass quality, growth and pest infestation were evaluated. Turf density, number of tillers, leaf width and resiliency were significantly affected by mowing frequency. Turfgrass plots mowed every 2-day had greater density, tillering, and resiliency but had narrower leaf width compared to other mowing treatments. Clipping dry weight with every 2-day mowing increased in the early stage of mowing treatment regardless of fertilizer application rates but gradually decreased in the later stage of mowing treatment compared to every 4 or 6-day mowings. The dry weight of above-ground part was not affected by mowing frequency, but that of underground part was significantly higher for every 6-day mowing frequency(3.3kg/day/m2) compared to every 2 or 4-day mowings. The organic mater content in soil was not different among mowing treatments but it was significantly reduced by the core aerification treatment, indicating significant effect of core aerification on thatch decomposition. Occurrences of weeds such as annual bluegrass and crabgrass according to mowing frequency were greater in every 2-day mowing treatment, while plots mowed every 6 days had less weed occurrence. Occurrence of rusts significantly increased in high fertility plots and frequently mowed turfgrasses.