Turfgrass Epistemology

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I discuss and critically interpret the peer-reviewed article “Impact of Ferrous Sulfate Concentration on Clarireedia Isolate Growth and Dollar Spot Development” by Shelton et al. (2021), published in Crop Science. This paper is frequently cited in conversations about using iron—specifically ferrous sulfate—as a non-fungicidal tool for dollar spot suppression on golf course turf. The study combines multi-site field trials with controlled in-vitro experiments to examine how ferrous sulfate rate influences dollar spot severity on creeping bentgrass fairways and putting greens, as well as how different Clarireedia isolates respond to increasing iron concentrations in culture. I walk through both components of the research, explaining what the data show about rate response, diminishing returns, and why previously recommended rates may be higher than necessary for meaningful disease suppression. A major focus of the discussion is the nonlinear nature of the response. The results demonstrate that approximately 25–26 kg ha⁻¹ of ferrous sulfate was sufficient to achieve about 50% dollar spot suppression, with much smaller gains at higher rates and increased risk of turf injury under stress conditions. I explain why this matters for real-world management and how these findings challenge the tendency to assume that “more is better” when it comes to iron applications. I also discuss the in-vitro portion of the study, which shows that ferrous sulfate has a direct fungitoxic effect on Clarireedia, but that the concentration required to suppress mycelial growth varies by isolate and by host type. This section is important for understanding why field performance can be inconsistent and why pathogen biology, management history, and turf system context all influence outcomes. Throughout the video, I place this paper within the broader dollar spot literature and explain what it does—and does not—justify in practice. Ferrous sulfate is not a replacement for fungicides, nor is it a magic bullet, but it can function as a partial suppression tool within an integrated disease management program when its limitations are understood. This episode is especially relevant for golf course superintendents, turfgrass researchers, and advanced turf managers who are evaluating iron-based programs for dollar spot control and want to separate evidence-based conclusions from oversimplified recommendations. Subscribe for more long-form turfgrass science discussions, peer-reviewed paper breakdowns, and clear explanations focused on how we know what we know in turfgrass management. 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based turfgrass content, scientific paper discussions, and long-form explanations that go beyond social media soundbites. #Turfgrass #SoilScience #LawnCare #GolfCourseManagement #TurfgrassScience #SoilFertility #CriticalThinking #TurfTok #TurfgrassEpistemology #EvidenceBased #LawnCareTips 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I break down and discuss the peer-reviewed article “Dollar Spot Suppression on Creeping Bentgrass in Response to Repeated Foliar Nitrogen Applications” by Townsend et al. (2021), published in Plant Disease. This paper directly addresses one of the most common and controversial questions in turfgrass management: can nitrogen fertilization meaningfully suppress dollar spot without relying solely on fungicides? The study evaluated repeated foliar nitrogen applications on creeping bentgrass putting greens across multiple years and locations, using a spoon-feeding approach that mirrors how many golf course superintendents manage fertility today. I walk through the experimental design, nitrogen rates, nitrogen sources, and how dollar spot severity responded over time. A major focus of the discussion is why only the highest nitrogen rate consistently reduced dollar spot severity, while lower, more typical spoon-feeding rates provided little to no disease suppression. In this video, I explain what the results actually show—and just as importantly, what they do not show. While nitrogen clearly influenced dollar spot development, the rate required to achieve meaningful suppression raises practical, agronomic, and environmental concerns. I also discuss how nitrogen source had minimal and inconsistent effects, why foliar nitrogen concentration may be more informative than application rate alone, and how these findings fit into integrated pest management strategies rather than stand-alone fertility “solutions.” This episode is especially relevant for golf course superintendents, turfgrass researchers, and advanced turf managers who hear that “more nitrogen reduces dollar spot” without adequate context. The data demonstrate that the relationship between nitrogen and disease is real but non-linear, highly rate-dependent, and constrained by tradeoffs involving growth, thatch accumulation, environmental risk, and secondary disease pressure. As always, the goal of this discussion is evidence-based interpretation, not fertilizer folklore or oversimplified recommendations. If you are making fertility decisions to manage dollar spot on creeping bentgrass putting greens, this video will help you better understand how nitrogen fits into the bigger disease management picture. Subscribe for more long-form turfgrass science discussions, peer-reviewed paper breakdowns, and clear explanations focused on how we know what we know in turfgrass management. 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information: https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I critically examine and respond to two popular soil fertility videos that promote base saturation theory and a simplified soil pH–nutrient availability diagram, and I explain why both should be treated with extreme skepticism—or ignored entirely—when making turfgrass management decisions. Much of the base saturation messaging presented in these videos relies on the idea that soils must be managed toward specific “ideal” cation percentage ratios to achieve productivity. In this video, I explain why base saturation is not a causal driver of turfgrass performance, why the concept persists despite decades of contradictory evidence, and how it functions more as a marketing narrative than a scientifically defensible soil fertility framework in turf systems. I also discuss how focusing on cation ratios distracts from the variables that actually matter, such as nutrient sufficiency, cation exchange capacity, soil texture, and plant demand. I also critique the soil pH diagram used in these videos, which is frequently circulated across agriculture and lawn care media. I explain why this diagram is oversimplified, misleading, and biologically inaccurate, and why it should not be used to diagnose nutrient deficiencies or guide fertilizer decisions. Rather than nutrients abruptly “locking up” outside narrow pH bands, I explain how nutrient availability is continuous, soil-specific, and governed by chemistry, mineralogy, and management history—not cartoon gradients. Throughout the video, I walk through why these ideas are especially problematic in turfgrass systems, where soils are often sand-based, heavily modified, intensively managed, and fundamentally different from agronomic field soils. I explain how misuse of base saturation theory and pH diagrams leads to unnecessary amendments, wasted money, and false confidence—while offering no predictive power for turf response. This episode is intended for golf course superintendents, turfgrass scientists, lawn care professionals, and homeowners who want evidence-based soil fertility interpretation rather than tradition, authority, or marketing-driven dogma. The goal is not to argue opinions, but to explain why certain ideas fail scientifically, why they continue to spread, and how to replace them with better reasoning. If you’ve ever been told your soil is “out of balance,” that your calcium-to-magnesium ratio is wrong, or that nutrients are “locked up” based on a single pH chart, this video will help you understand why those claims persist—and why they don’t hold up under scrutiny. Subscribe for long-form turfgrass science discussions, critical analysis of common soil fertility claims, and clear explanations focused on how we know what we know in turfgrass management. Subscribe for more long-form turfgrass science discussions, peer-reviewed paper breakdowns, and practical explanations focused on how we know what we know in turfgrass management. 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based turfgrass content, scientific paper discussions, and long-form explanations that go beyond social media soundbites. #Turfgrass #SoilScience #LawnCare #GolfCourseManagement #TurfgrassScience #SoilFertility #CriticalThinking #TurfTok #TurfgrassEpistemology #EvidenceBased #LawnCareTips 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email...

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I walk through a recent peer-reviewed study that examines how potassium fertilization influences dollar spot severity on annual bluegrass (Poa annua) and creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) putting greens. The article, Potassium fertilization effects on dollar spot of annual bluegrass and creeping bentgrass, presents multi-year field data showing that increasing potassium rates consistently increased dollar spot severity under the conditions tested. This directly challenges the common assumption that potassium fertilization automatically improves stress tolerance or reduces disease pressure in turfgrass systems. In the video, I explain the experimental design, including potassium and nitrogen rate treatments, mat layer and leaf tissue measurements, and how disease severity was quantified over time. I also discuss why potassium behaved differently than many turf managers expect, and how disease response depended on antecedent potassium levels in both the mat layer and plant tissue. This discussion emphasizes the importance of context in fertility management. Potassium is an essential nutrient, but its relationship with turfgrass disease is not linear or universally beneficial. The results highlight why relying on generalized nutrient “rules” without soil and tissue data can lead to unintended consequences in disease management programs. If you manage golf course putting greens, work in turfgrass research, or make fertility decisions based on soil tests and tissue analysis, this episode provides critical insight into how potassium, nitrogen, and dollar spot interact in real turf systems. The goal is not to discourage potassium use, but to encourage evidence-based decision-making grounded in measured nutrient status rather than assumptions. Subscribe for more long-form turfgrass science discussions, peer-reviewed paper breakdowns, and practical explanations focused on how we know what we know in turfgrass management. 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based turfgrass content, scientific paper discussions, and long-form explanations that go beyond social media soundbites. #Turfgrass #SoilScience #LawnCare #GolfCourseManagement #TurfgrassScience #SoilFertility #CriticalThinking #TurfTok #TurfgrassEpistemology #EvidenceBased #LawnCareTips 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I review and respond to comments, emails, and TikTok messages I’ve received throughout 2025 related to turfgrass science, soil fertility, nutrient management, and common turf industry claims. From thoughtful questions to recurring misconceptions, this video highlights what turf managers, lawn care professionals, golfers, and homeowners are asking—and where confusion often arises when science meets social media. I address trends I’ve seen across platforms, clarify misunderstandings, and explain why certain claims persist despite decades of research. Topics discussed include: Common turfgrass myths repeated in social media comments Misinterpretations of soil tests, nutrients, and fertilizers Questions about phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen, and soil biology The influence of marketing and anecdote vs. peer-reviewed science Why short-form content (TikTok, reels, shorts) often oversimplifies turf science How to develop critical thinking skills when evaluating turfgrass advice online This episode is not about calling people out—it’s about slowing down, adding context, and explaining how we know what we know in turfgrass science. Whether you’re a golf course superintendent, lawn care operator, researcher, or homeowner trying to make better management decisions, this discussion is designed to help you separate evidence from noise. If you’ve emailed me, commented on YouTube, or left a TikTok comment in 2025, there’s a good chance your question—or one just like it—is addressed here. 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based turfgrass content, scientific paper discussions, and long-form explanations that go beyond social media soundbites. #Turfgrass #SoilScience #LawnCare #GolfCourseManagement #TurfgrassScience #SoilFertility #CriticalThinking #TurfTok #TurfgrassEpistemology #EvidenceBased #LawnCareTips 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I sit down with Dr. John Inguagiato to discuss his peer-reviewed research on phosphite use for suppressing cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) on putting greens. Together, we break down the science behind phosphite chemistry, application rates, turf safety, and what the data actually say—beyond marketing claims. Dr. Inguagiato’s 2017 Crop Science paper, “Effect of Phosphite Rate and Source on Cyanobacteria Colonization of Putting Green Turf,” is one of the most frequently cited studies on this topic. In this conversation, we explore how phosphite differs from phosphate, why cyanobacteria respond differently to these compounds, and how phosphite applications can reduce algal crusting without relying solely on traditional fungicides This discussion covers: How phosphite suppresses cyanobacteria colonization on creeping bentgrass putting greens Differences between phosphite vs. phosphate in turf systems Optimal phosphite application rates that balance efficacy and phytotoxicity risk Why product source and formulation matter less than active ingredient rate Practical implications for algae management programs on golf greens How this research fits into modern integrated turfgrass management If you manage putting greens, work in turfgrass research, or want an evidence-based explanation of phosphite products that cuts through anecdote and advertising, this episode provides critical context straight from the study’s lead author. 📄 Research discussed: Inguagiato, J.C., Kaminski, J.E., & Lulis, T.T. (2017). Effect of Phosphite Rate and Source on Cyanobacteria Colonization of Putting Green Turf. Crop Science 57: S-274–S-284. 🔔 Subscribe for more science-driven turfgrass discussions, paper reviews with authors, and critical analysis of common turf management claims. #TurfgrassScience #GolfCourseManagement #Phosphite #Cyanobacteria #PuttingGreens #TurfgrassResearch #SoilScience #EvidenceBasedTurf #TurfgrassEpistemology 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 close, critical look at "Data-Drive Lawn Care" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjRXNcIi3Hk) and share my honest thoughts on what works — and what doesn’t. I break down the arguments, highlight where I think the logic falls short, and offer my own perspective on the topic. 🔎 What I cover: Key claims made by the original creator Moments where I agree — and moments where I respectfully disagree Glaring omissions and what I believe should have been addressed My own take: what’s convincing, what needs more nuance 💡 Why this matters: Discussions like this are important — not just to critique others, but to encourage deeper thinking and accountability. If you’ve seen the original video: I invite you to watch this, think along with me, and decide for yourself what holds up. 👇 Join the conversation: Do you agree or disagree with my take? Did I miss anything? What would you add? Let me know your thoughts in the comments — I read them all 🙂 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications if you want more content like this. 🎓 Turfgrass Epistemology — How do we know what we know? 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 and break down one of the most referenced articles in cool-season turfgrass pathology: “Severity of Gray Leaf Spot in Perennial Ryegrass as Influenced by Mowing Height and Nitrogen Level” by Williams, Burrus, and Vincelli (2001). This study investigated how two major management practices—mowing height and nitrogen rate—affect the intensity of gray leaf spot (Pyricularia grisea) epidemics in perennial ryegrass managed under golf-course conditions. I walk through the methods, results, and implications of the research, and I discuss how the findings align—or don’t align—with common industry assumptions twenty years later. 🔬 Topics I cover in the review: The study design and why the researchers chose fairway- and rough-height mowing How N rates (0, 36.6, and 73.2 kg N ha⁻¹ per month) influenced GLS severity Why mowing height had less effect on disease than expected Environmental conditions that shaped the epidemic What turf managers can actually take away from this paper How these results compare to modern GLS observations in perennial ryegrass 💡 Why this article matters today: Gray leaf spot remains one of the most destructive diseases of perennial ryegrass on golf courses. Understanding how cultural practices influence disease severity is still essential for developing integrated, evidence-based management programs. This paper is a cornerstone in that conversation—and it still sparks debate. 👇 Join the discussion: Do you agree with how the authors interpreted their data? Have you observed different mowing-height effects in your region? Should N programs be modified during GLS-prone months? Share your thoughts in the comments. Critical evaluation of research—new and old—is how we advance turfgrass science and avoid assumptions that fail in the field. If you enjoy evidence-based turfgrass breakdowns, hit LIKE and SUBSCRIBE. Become a member of Turfgrass Epistemology and support turfgrass research: www.youtube.com/@TurfgrassEpistemology/join Voicemail: 859-444-4234 Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information: https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this video, I provide an in-depth, evidence-based critique of the nitrogen-efficiency product RDX-N and the claims made in the promotional video circulating online. If you’ve ever wondered whether biostimulants, nitrogen enhancers, or “metabolic activators” actually work in real-world turfgrass or crop management, this breakdown is for you. I review the product’s marketing claims, examine the data presented in the official RDX-N brochure, and explain what the science really says about nitrogen uptake, nitrogen metabolism, and plant physiology. But this video is more than a review of one product—it's a lesson in how to evaluate agronomic claims using critical thinking and epistemology. When you understand how knowledge is justified, you’re better equipped to: • Identify misleading or unproven claims • Recognize when data is incomplete, selective, or irrelevant • Avoid being persuaded by marketing language • Make informed decisions based on reliable evidence In turfgrass, agriculture, and lawn care, new products appear constantly—each claiming to increase yields, improve nitrogen efficiency, reduce inputs, or boost plant health. Without strong critical thinking skills, it’s easy to be misled. Epistemology—the study of how we know what we know—helps protect you when you’re confronted with products, technologies, or scientific claims you’ve never heard of. By the end of this video, you’ll understand: • What RDX-N claims to do • Whether those claims are supported by high-quality evidence • How to assess scientific credibility in turfgrass and crop management • How to apply critical thinking when evaluating any agronomic product If you’re a turfgrass manager, agronomist, sports field manager, lawn care professional, or scientifically curious homeowner, this channel will help you make smarter, evidence-driven decisions. Subscribe to Turfgrass Epistemology for more videos on turfgrass science, nitrogen management, soil fertility, agronomy, and the critical thinking skills needed to navigate misinformation in the industry. 🎓 Turfgrass Epistemology — How do we know what we know? 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I sit down with Dr. Lee Miller of Purdue University, one of the leading experts in turfgrass pathology, to break down everything you need to know about turfgrass disease resistance, fungicide rotations, and accurate turf disease identification. Whether you manage golf course greens, sports fields, or home lawns, this conversation gives you the practical, science-based guidance needed to protect your turf from common and emerging diseases. We explore what disease resistance in turfgrass truly means, why resistance develops, and how environmental conditions and management practices influence disease pressure. Dr. Miller explains how to design effective fungicide rotation programs, how to avoid resistance through proper FRAC group management, and how to choose the right mode of action at the right time of year. If you’re looking for evidence-based turfgrass management, best practices for fungicide use, or expert insights into turf disease diagnostics, this video delivers the tools you need. Subscribe for more science-driven conversations on turfgrass health, management, and critical thinking. 🎓 Turfgrass Epistemology — How do we know what we know? 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 analyze the 2025 Zhang et al. study on how fungicide scheduling and bentgrass cultivar resistance interact to influence dollar spot control. This research provides some of the strongest evidence to date that curative, damage-threshold-based fungicide programs can dramatically reduce inputs—up to 78 percent in certain cases—when paired with disease-resistant bentgrass cultivars. I explain how the researchers designed the field trials, what the low damage threshold means in practice, how 24-hour and next-application-day schedules performed differently, and why resistant cultivars such as Declaration produced such large savings without sacrificing control. I also discuss how inoculation affected disease pressure, why susceptible cultivars behaved differently, and what this means for superintendents trying to reduce fungicide use while maintaining high-quality fairways. If you want a clear, evidence-based explanation of how timing, cultivar resistance, and disease pressure shape fungicide performance, this video brings the science into focus. 🎓 Turfgrass Epistemology — How do we know what we know? 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 one of the most influential papers ever written on turfgrass pathology: Walsh, Ikeda, and Boland’s 1999 review on the biology and management of dollar spot. This paper remains a foundational resource for understanding how the pathogen operates, why the disease is so persistent on cool-season turf, and which management strategies are supported by evidence rather than tradition. I walk through the key sections of the paper, including the pathogen’s life cycle, the environmental conditions that drive epidemics, the role of cultural practices, and the strengths and weaknesses of common fungicide approaches. I also explain how the scientific understanding of dollar spot has progressed since 1999 and why many of the insights in this article still guide modern management decisions. If you work in turf management or simply want to understand the science behind one of the most costly diseases in the industry, this video will help you separate evidence from assumption and improve your decision-making. 🔬 Keywords: Dollar Spot, Bentgrass, Dew Removal, Nitrogen, Turfgrass Disease, Integrated Management 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information: https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I review a popular lawn-care website article and an accompanying YouTube video that teach homeowners how to interpret a soil test that is, in reality, scientifically invalid for making nutrient decisions. These resources look polished and authoritative, but the advice they provide is fundamentally flawed — and following it can lead to unnecessary product applications, wasted money, and incorrect assumptions about soil health. I’ll walk through both the website and the video step-by-step and explain: Why the soil test they promote is not valid for nutrient recommendations How certain companies use oversimplified or misleading soil interpretations to sell products The scientific standards for a real soil test and what makes it trustworthy How proper soil testing differs from marketing-driven “DIY” interpretations What homeowners should actually look for when deciding if their lawn needs fertilizer, lime, or amendments How to evaluate online lawn-care information and avoid advice that is not evidence-based The goal of this video isn’t to criticize people — it’s to highlight why bad testing leads to bad decisions, and how to empower homeowners with the ability to recognize valid, science-based soil information. If you’ve ever wondered whether the soil advice you see online is trustworthy, or how to distinguish real science from clever marketing, this episode will give you a clear, reliable framework for making informed choices. 🔬 Keywords: Dollar Spot, Bentgrass, Dew Removal, Nitrogen, Turfgrass Disease, Integrated Management 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information: https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

Not all scientific journals are created equal. Some exist to advance knowledge — others exist to collect publishing fees. In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, we explore how to tell the difference. I’ll walk through the refereed process and explain how it differs from standard peer review, why that distinction matters, and how the structure of editorial oversight determines the credibility of the science that reaches the public. We’ll also take a close look at predatory journals — publications that mimic legitimate science while bypassing or corrupting the review process in exchange for author fees. But the story isn’t as simple as “good” versus “bad.” Even in a predatory journal, a paper may contain sound science — the key is learning how to weigh the evidence and evaluate quality for yourself. We’ll discuss: What defines a refereed journal versus a peer-reviewed one. How to spot red flags in a publication or website. Why impact factors and indexing are useful but not foolproof. The difference between open access done right and pay-to-publish exploitation. Practical ways any reader — scientist or not — can assess a journal’s credibility. By the end, you’ll have a framework for evaluating whether a journal’s claims deserve your trust — and how to apply critical thinking before citing, sharing, or believing “published” results. If you care about how we know what we know, and why evidence must be judged as well as gathered, this episode is for you. 🎓 Turfgrass Epistemology — How do we know what we know? 📌 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, we take a close look at one of the most frequently cited studies in turfgrass pathology — Golembiewski and Danneberger’s 1998 Agronomy Journal paper exploring how trinexapac-ethyl (TE) and nitrogen fertility influence the severity of dollar spot (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa) in creeping bentgrass. The researchers found that TE, a popular plant growth regulator, didn’t increase disease as many feared — in fact, it reduced dollar spot when combined with adequate nitrogen. This discovery challenged the prevailing assumptions of the time and suggested that growth regulation and fertility could work together to reduce fungicide reliance on golf course fairways. In this discussion, we unpack: The experimental design and methodology behind the study. Why mowing height and growth regulation changed disease outcomes. How nitrogen rate influenced both dollar spot suppression and thatch accumulation. What this means for modern integrated pest management (IPM) strategies in turfgrass systems. By the end, we’ll consider whether the mechanisms observed in 1998 still hold true today — and what this research can teach us about evidence-based turf management in the age of marketing claims and quick fixes. If you enjoy videos that bridge science, history, and turf management, consider subscribing and joining the conversation. Paper discussed: Golembiewski, R. C., & Danneberger, T. K. (1998). Dollar spot severity as influenced by trinexapac-ethyl, creeping bentgrass cultivar, and nitrogen fertility. Agronomy Journal, 90(4), 466–470. https://doi.org/10.2134/agronj1998.00021962009000040004x 🔬 Keywords: Dollar Spot, Bentgrass, Dew Removal, Nitrogen, Turfgrass Disease, Integrated Management 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@gmail.com Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information: https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 Management 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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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 Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379 Spotify Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI iHeart Radio Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/ Podbean https://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/ Online consulting Calendly.com/TravisShaddox Twitter Twitter.com/TravisShaddox Email TravisShaddox@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