International Turf Management Handbook

Grasslands take up approximately one-quarter of the world’s vegetative cover. Turfgrasses protect the land from erosion, stabilize the soil, moderate the temperature and provide low cost safe surfacing for many sporting and leisure activities. Amenity grasslands - and turf in particular - do more than form a significant part of the global landscape. They make up the basis of a multimillion dollar industry. This text covers the establishment, maintenance, and management of natural turfgrass surfaces, arranged in four sections. The first details the identification and selection of turfgrasses, how they grow, and their maintenance. The second focuses on the management and administration of the turfgrass business. The third addresses standards and their use to effectively manage different surfaces such as bowling, croquet and golf greens, grass tennis courts, cricket tables, football and athletic fields, racetracks, and golf fairways. The final section discusses important environmental issues in turf management, including water resources, pesticides and fertilizers. Developed in association with more than 20 leading turf management authorities, this handbook details the natural turfgrass surface functions. It explores strategies that blend biodiveristy and sustainability with the business of maintaining turf. It is essential reading for agriculture, horticulture, and natural resource professionals, and land managers.