Horticulture Research Station

Effects of Plant Growth Regulators on Sand Based Hybrid Athletic Fields

---

Abstract

Repeated foot traffic results in turfgrass wear from physical pressure and ripping. Prolonged stress over a season reduces green cover and compacts the soil. Increasing use rates require more traffic-tolerant athletic fields. Hybrid turfgrass combines natural turfgrass growing with synthetic fibers. Because of this, hybrid stitching systems have been developed to provide more stability while still using natural grass. Hybrid stitching requires fraise mowing to remove organic matter, as hollow tine aeration is not possible due to the synthetic fibers. Fraise mowing is a turfgrass cultivation practice that removes aboveground material. Plant Growth Regulators (PGR) have been used to limit mowing while increasing plant quality and slow organic matter production. Research is needed to monitor turfgrass performance and athletic field safety parameters in hybridsystems with the use of different PGR’s.

How to Cite:

Messer, Z., Thoms, A. & Law, Q., (2026) “Effects of Plant Growth Regulators on Sand Based Hybrid Athletic Fields”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports 2025(1), 33-34.