Species, clover-inclusion, and nitrogen fertilizer effects on sod tensile strength of fine fescue taxa

Increasing fertilization rates from 0 to 49 kg N ha(-1) during establishment of fine fescue (Festuca spp.) taxa can promote faster grow-in; however, the influence on sod production (tensile strength and handling) is unknown. More information is needed on both fine fescue taxa and the effects N fertilizer or inclusion of clover (Trifolium spp.) during establishment on sod strength. Field experiments were repeated in 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 in Indiana to quantify differences among four fine fescue taxa and N fertilizer or clover-inclusion effects on sod production. Six N fertilizer levels ranged from 0 to 122.5 kg N ha(-1) during the first 8 weeks after planting (WAP), and two treatments consisted of inclusion of either annual or perennial clover + 0 kg N ha(-1) at seeding. Sod harvest variables were measured at harvests from 9 to 12 months after planting (MAP). Results indicate fine fescue growth habit characteristics play a large role in sod strength differences. The highest to lowest sod strength and handling was ranked as follows: strong creeping red fescue (F. rubra L. ssp. rubra Gaudin) > slender creeping red fescue [F. rubra ssp. littoralis (G. Mey.) Auquier] >= Chewings fescue (F. rubra ssp. commutata Gaudin) >= hard fescue (F. brevipila Tracey). A minimal effect on sod strength and handling at multiple sod harvests (9-12 MAP) was observed from increasing N fertilizer levels during first 8 wk of establishment or from clover inclusion.