In this episode, I sit down to talk about a topic that’s been at the heart of American higher education for more than a century — university extension. We’ll explore how extension began, why it was once the lifeblood of land-grant universities, and how the system that connected science to society is now quietly disappearing. Extension was created so universities could serve the public — not just by publishing papers, but by helping real people solve real problems. For decades, that mission worked. Faculty were rewarded for outreach, and industries like turfgrass, horticulture, and agriculture thrived because science and practice were linked. But somewhere along the way, the incentives changed. Grants, graduate students, and publication counts became the metrics of success, and the outreach mission — the reason land-grant universities existed in the first place — started to fade. In this conversation, I reflect on when that shift began, what caused it, and what’s been lost in the process. We’ll talk about why extension matters, how it can be revitalized, and what universities risk when they stop valuing public service. My goal isn’t nostalgia — it’s to remind us that progress and connection don’t have to be opposites. 🎙️ Episode title: The Rise and Fall of University Extension🏛️ Topics: Smith-Lever Act history, land-grant universities, extension faculty, university incentives, outreach, and public service 📌 https://www.gofundme.com/f/TurfgrassEpistemology Thank you for being part of this community and for supporting evidence-based turfgrass science. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

Can something as simple as mowing time really stop a turfgrass disease? In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, we look back at a landmark 1996 study by Williams, Powell, Vincelli, and Dougherty from the University of Kentucky — a paper that changed how superintendents think about dew, nitrogen, and dollar spot control. Dollar spot (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa) thrives on leaf moisture. Williams et al. tested what happens when you simply remove that moisture early in the morning. Their data were stunning — mowing or “poling” to knock dew off reduced dollar spot by as much as 81% on fairways and 53% on greens. That’s before any fungicide was even applied. Add moderate nitrogen fertilization, and disease pressure dropped even further. Clipping removal, on the other hand, didn’t matter much. This episode explores what these results mean for modern turf management. How does dew act as a bridge for fungal infection? Why does nitrogen strengthen bentgrass against disease? And what does this tell us about integrating simple cultural practices with fungicide programs? Join Dr. Travis Shaddox as we revisit this foundational study — proof that sometimes, the mower is mightier than the fungicide. 📘 Source: Williams, D.W., A.J. Powell Jr., P. Vincelli, and C.T. Dougherty. 1996. Dollar Spot on Bentgrass Influenced by Displacement of Leaf Surface Moisture, Nitrogen, and Clipping Removal. Crop Science 36:1304–1309. 🔬 Keywords: Dollar Spot, Bentgrass, Dew Removal, Nitrogen, Turfgrass Disease, Integrated ManagementDon’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on more science-driven insights! Become a member of Turfgrass Epistemology and support turfgrass research:www.youtube.com/@TurfgrassEpistemology/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I explore the history and current state of university turfgrass programs—from their rise during the post-war boom in golf, parks, and sports fields to their decline in recent decades. I explain how turfgrass faculty positions are created and filled, what factors lead to the loss of those positions, and why many programs are now disappearing altogether. I connect the dots between enrollment trends, industry funding, and the shifting priorities of universities that have left turfgrass science struggling to survive. Most importantly, I discuss what the turfgrass community—educators, managers, and industry leaders—can do to reverse the trend and rebuild the academic foundation that once supported innovation in turf management. This episode blends history, data, and reflection to uncover how we got here and what it will take to bring turfgrass education back.

In this video, I examine the 2021 study by Beckley and Roberts published in the International Turfgrass Society Research Journal titled “Utilizing Organic Amendments for General Suppression of Dollar Spot on Creeping Bentgrass.” The discussion centers on one key question: Does biochar actually reduce dollar spot? I break down the experimental design—how researchers compared biochar, compost, vermicompost, and traditional fertilizers under equal nitrogen rates—and explains what the data really show. Were the reductions in dollar spot due to microbial changes, or simply better nitrogen nutrition? You’ll see how biochar performed across two years, why the results were inconsistent, and what this means for turfgrass managers trying to reduce fungicide use. The episode also explores the broader implications for integrated disease management and the growing interest in “natural” amendments. If you’ve ever wondered whether biochar is a biological breakthrough or just another overhyped input, this deep dive into the data will help separate evidence from assumption. https://doi.org/10.1002/its2.55 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on more science-driven insights! Become a member of Turfgrass Epistemology and support turfgrass research:www.youtube.com/@TurfgrassEpistemology/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I explore the recent review article “Review of the Biology and Management of Large Patch of Warm-Season Turfgrasses” (Kreinberg et al., Crop Science, 2025). I walk you through what the authors tell us about Rhizoctonia solani AG 2-2 LP — the fungal pathogen behind large patch disease in warm-season turfgrasses — how environmental conditions favor its development, and how it can persist in thatch through seasonal dormancy. Along the way, I highlight the state of current cultural, chemical, and biological control strategies, and I point out the gaps and future directions the turfgrass pathology community still needs to address. If you’re into turf disease management, plant pathology, or sustainable approaches to keeping turf healthy, this discussion is for you. https://doi.org/10.1002/csc2.70055 📌 https://www.gofundme.com/f/TurfgrassEpistemology Thank you for being part of this community and for supporting evidence-based turfgrass science. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

In this video, I take you through the state of the science on dollar spot disease in turfgrass, framed by the recent review “New Approaches to an Old Problem: Dollar Spot of Turfgrass.” We explore how this ubiquitous fungal disease (caused by Clarireedia spp.) continues to challenge turf managers, why traditional fungicide programs are increasingly under pressure, and what new genomic tools and breeding strategies may offer as solutions. I’ll break down the authors’ discussion of pathogen genomics, host–pathogen interactions, and quantitative trait loci (QTL) for resistance, while also reflecting on where future research might be headed. Whether you’re a turfgrass scientist, practitioner, or just curious about plant pathology, this video gives an accessible, evidence-based look at tackling a persistent problem in turf management. https://doi.org/10.1094/PHYTO-11-20-0505-RVW Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on more science-driven insights! Become a member of Turfgrass Epistemology and support turfgrass research:www.youtube.com/@TurfgrassEpistemology/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I dive into the article “Survey of Water Use and Management Practices on US Golf Courses from 2005 to 2024” published in HortTechnology (Shaddox et al., 2025). The study tracks nearly twenty years of changes in how golf courses across the United States use and manage water. I discuss how irrigation volumes and irrigated areas have shifted over time, highlight important regional differences, and explain why some water sources—like recycled water—are declining while others remain steady. I also cover the adoption of new management strategies such as moisture sensors, irrigation audits, and objective scheduling, along with the continuing challenges of infrastructure upgrades, regulatory pressure, and competition for water resources. If you’re interested in sustainability, turfgrass science, or the future of golf course management, this discussion will give you a clear look at the evidence and what it means moving forward. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on more science-driven insights! Become a member of Turfgrass Epistemology and support turfgrass research:www.youtube.com/@TurfgrassEpistemology/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I discuss the YouTube episode “Struggling Turf? Calcium Could Be the Missing …” and examine it through the lens of the strawman fallacy. We’ll look at how someone can present information that is technically true, yet still mislead by reframing the issue or knocking down an argument no one actually made. This breakdown shows how a conman can be both truthful and deceptive at the same time—a powerful reminder of why critical thinking matters in turfgrass science, lawn care, and beyond. If you’ve ever learned something useful from this channel, please consider contributing. Every donation—large or small—helps strengthen the future of turfgrass research. 📌 https://www.gofundme.com/f/TurfgrassEpistemology Thank you for being part of this community and for supporting evidence-based turfgrass science. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

In this video, I review the scientific article “Irrigation Frequency Affects Zoysiagrass Rooting and Plant Water Status.” We’ll look at how different irrigation schedules influenced root development and water relations in zoysiagrass, and what these findings mean for turfgrass management. If you’ve ever wondered how often you should water to encourage deeper roots and better turf performance, this study offers valuable evidence-based insights. Article: https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/hortsci/31/2/article-p234.xml Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on more science-driven insights! Become a member of Turfgrass Epistemology and support turfgrass research:www.youtube.com/@TurfgrassEpistemology/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this episode, I break down the claims made in “Check out These Roots, John Perry! | [LIVE PODCAST] Ep.8 of the Average Joe Lawn Care Show,” where the hosts argue that liquid aeration is an effective solution for lawn health. I dive into the science and present evidence that challenges their assertions. With years of turfgrass science experience, I explain why liquid aeration doesn’t deliver the promised results and why relying on this product could lead to misguided lawn care practices. Don’t fall for the hype – join me as I debunk the myths and set the record straight with evidence-backed facts! If you’ve ever learned something useful from this channel, please consider contributing. Every donation—large or small—helps strengthen the future of turfgrass research. 📌 https://www.gofundme.com/f/TurfgrassEpistemology Thank you for being part of this community and for supporting evidence-based turfgrass science. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

In this video, I take a look at some of the recent comments and questions from TikTok and YouTube. Your feedback not only shapes the conversations we’re having here but also sparks deeper discussions about turfgrass science and management. I’m also excited to introduce a new fundraiser supporting turfgrass research. Turfgrass plays a vital role in sports, recreation, and landscapes, yet research in this area often goes underfunded. Your support will help advance studies that improve sustainability, water use efficiency, soil management, and turf quality—work that benefits golf courses, sports fields, parks, and home lawns alike. If you’ve ever learned something useful from this channel, please consider contributing. Every donation—large or small—helps strengthen the future of turfgrass research. 📌 https://www.gofundme.com/f/TurfgrassEpistemology Thank you for being part of this community and for supporting evidence-based turfgrass science. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

In this video, I explore the findings of the research article “Tall Fescue Rooting as Affected by Deficit Irrigation” (HortScience, Volume 42, Issue 3). The study, conducted by Jinmin Fu, Jack Fry, and Bingru Huang and published June 1, 2007, investigates how reduced irrigation impacts the rooting behavior of 'Falcon II' tall fescue grasses using minirhizotron imaging. I’ll walk through: The study’s experimental setup using varying levels of evapotranspiration (20%, 60%, and 100%)Key findings such as the surprising increase in root length and surface area under severe water stress (20% ET)Practical implications for turfgrass management and water conservation strategies Whether you're working in turfgrass management, water-efficient landscaping, or just curious about plant responses to water stress, this video unpacks the science and its real-world applications. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on more science-driven insights! Become a member of Turfgrass Epistemology and support turfgrass research:www.youtube.com/@TurfgrassEpistemology/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I examine the research by Cain et al. (2022) that explores how varying irrigation schedules affect the encroachment of annual bluegrass (Poa annua) into perennial ryegrass turf systems in western Oregon. The study reveals that watering once per week significantly reduces annual bluegrass encroachment compared to irrigating four times a week, and that replacing irrigation volumes based on reference evapotranspiration (ETref) had no meaningful impact on that outcome Throughout the video, I walk viewers through the experimental approach, highlight the implications for turfgrass managers aiming to suppress undesirable bluegrass without altering evapotranspiration-based irrigation schedules, and reflect on how this insight might inform more water-efficient lawn or turf maintenance strategies. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/its2.70 📩 Have a comment or question of your own? Drop it below or email me. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

In this video, I discuss the scientific article "Irrigation Rates and Frequency Affect Tall Fescue Color and Weed Encroachment." We’ll examine how adjusting irrigation amounts and timing influences turfgrass aesthetics and weed pressure. From water conservation to maintaining turf quality, this study provides valuable guidance for anyone managing tall fescue under variable moisture conditions. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/its2.184 📩 Have a comment or question of your own? Drop it below or email me. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

In this video, I review the scientific article "Irrigation Frequency and Amount Effect on Root Extension during Sod Establishment of Warm-season Grasses." We’ll explore how different irrigation strategies influence root growth during establishment, what this means for practical turfgrass management, and how to strike the right balance between watering efficiency and sod performance. If you manage turf or are curious about water-wise establishment practices, this study offers some important insights. https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/hortsci/46/8/article-p1202.xml?rskey=SDm3zj&print Become a member and get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I offer commentary on the scientific article titled "Water use and performance of Kentucky bluegrass influenced by cultivar, irrigation practices, and soil texture," published in the International Turfgrass Society Research Journal (DOI: 10.1002/its2.200). The study evaluated two Kentucky bluegrass cultivars, Mallard and Geronimo, grown in lysimeters filled with either loamy sand or silt loam. Each setup was subjected to two irrigation levels: 40% and 80% replacement of reference evapotranspiration. The authors monitored water use and turf coverage throughout the growing season to assess drought resilience. My commentary covers the key findings from the research, including why Mallard outperformed Geronimo under water-limited conditions, how irrigation volume influenced turf coverage more than irrigation frequency, and why soil texture had relatively minor effects on water use. I also discuss the strengths and limitations of the study design and its relevance to real-world turfgrass management. If you're interested in sustainable lawn care, water conservation, or evidence-based turfgrass science, this discussion is for you. Subscribe for more commentary and analysis grounded in peer-reviewed research. 👍 If you care about sustainable turfgrass care, joining the lawn‑maintenance conversation, or translating research into real‑world insights—this commentary is for you! 🔔 Subscribe for more science-based commentary—from agronomy insights to environmental sustainability. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I dive into the 2002 study from Crop Science that evaluates how different irrigation schedules, tall fescue cultivars, and mowing heights interact to shape turf performance. Article: https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.2135/cropsci2002.2011 ✅ What you'll discover: Study design highlights: 2‑year field trial in Riverside, CA, comparing 2–4 irrigation events per week at ~80 % ET₀, two cultivars (a dwarf vs. a turf-type), and two mowing heights (~3.8 cm vs. 6.4 cm) Key findings: Twice-weekly “deep” watering yielded the highest visual quality. Dwarf cultivars and shorter mowing height boosted turf quality early, but overwatering and mowing short favored shallow roots and weed growth  Practical takeaways for lawn and turf managers: Go for deep, twice-weekly irrigation at ~80 % ET₀ rather than frequent shallow watering.Use dwarf cultivars with lower mowing heights—but monitor for stress and shallow rooting.Always consider local soil type and climate before applying these findings. 👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more science‑backed turf insights!💬 Have you experimented with irrigation patterns or mowing heights? Share your story below. 📩 Have a comment or question of your own? Drop it below or email me. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

In this video, I respond to the Bermuda Grass Central video “The Best Summer Fertilizer for Lawns? Why Yard Mastery 7‑0‑20 is …”. I break down their main arguments, evaluate their fertilizer recommendations, and highlight both strong and weak points. ✅ What you’ll get: Summary of Claims: A quick overview of the video’s main points—why the creator supports Yard Mastery’s 7‑0‑20 blend for summer turf. Critical Analysis: Comparing their claims to current turf fertilization research—does a high-potassium, zero-nitrogen mix really benefit warm-season grasses in mid-summer? I'll cite recent studies and best management practices. Pros and Cons: Where the video gets it right—e.g., advocating for balanced nutrition and turf health—and where it simplifies or overlooks key science, such as soil testing, nutrient ratios, and seasonal timing. Practical Advice: My take on when and how to actually use 7‑0‑20—or not—and what lawn owners should do instead for optimal summer grass care. 🌱 Who it’s for: Lawn care enthusiasts and DIY gardeners Turf professionals looking to apply evidence-based fertilizer practices Anyone curious about the deeper science behind popular lawn-care products Drop a comment below: Do you use high-K fertilizers in summer? Why or why not? 👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell to catch more in-depth critiques and science-backed lawn tips! Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I critique “Found the Best Iron to Apply to Your Lawn For Summer Color” by a former golf course superintendent. While I agree that iron can boost turf color without pushing growth, I question some of the application advice—especially the dosing schedule and lack of soil pH context. I break down what the original video gets right, what it misses, and share my evidence-based tips for using iron effectively this summer. If you want deep green turf without wasting money or product, this video’s for you. 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more turfgrass truth from Turfgrass Epistemology. 📩 Have a comment or question of your own? Drop it below or email me. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

In this video, I break down the findings from the scientific article "Optimizing Irrigation Rates and Frequency for Perennial Ryegrass in Western Oregon." We’ll look at how different irrigation strategies affected turf quality and what this means for managing ryegrass under Pacific Northwest conditions. Whether you’re a turf manager or a lawn care enthusiast, this research has practical takeaways you can use.🔔 Subscribe to Turfgrass Epistemology for more turf science and myth-busting insights. Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join Voicemail:859-444-4234 Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf