GROUNDS MANAGEMENT
Since groundcovers can ’ t read the same books that we do , they don ’ t always grow to the expected height , thus creating a need to prune , cut or control height in some cases . A degree of flexibility in expectations goes a long way when managing groundcovers . In addition to height issues , there is the need to control insects and diseases . Getting to know each species , and scouting for various pests will prevent damage in most cases . Also , just like all plants , groundcovers die and need to be replaced . Adding the cost of replanting into the budget is prudent with groundcovers , as well as other plants in the landscape .
Weeds often invade groundcover plantings , requiring effective management strategy .
INSTALLING GROUNDCOVERS Planting groundcovers is much the same as most other ornamental plants except for one big difference : groundcovers spread and grow laterally . In fact , the sideways movement should be taken into account both initially and long-term . Though most will fill in the space eventually , a 9- or 12-inch spacing is the sweet spot for most species . Sure , there is money to be saved with an 18-inch center spacing , but the users and owners of the property
“ We don ’ t overseed anymore and one of the reasons is because of the Latitude but the striping effect , the dark light from the mowing pattern is so profound that people think that … that ‘ they ’ ve overseeded ’ and that speaks to its aesthetics . It ’ s got a very fine leaf texture and color .”
– Jon Dewitt – Athletic Grounds Director – University of Alabama
College football ’ s national championship regularly goes through this stadium , Alabama ’ s Bryant-Denny . Making a program great takes an all-around effort from not only the team and coaches but those behind the scenes . Athletic Grounds Director Jon Dewitt expects nothing but the best from his facilities which is why his grass of choice , Latitude 36 ® Bermudagrass helps make life easier . Its cold tolerating abilities mean overseeding with ryegrass isn ’ t needed and from a playability standpoint , it helps make Alabama tick .
More Info At : SodSolutionsPro . com / BAMA sportsfieldmanagementonline . com July 2023 | SportsField Management
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