Use of Foramsulfuron (TADS) as a Transition Agent for Removing Perennial Ryegrass Overseed from Tifway 419 Bermudagrass

Two rates of Foramsulfuron (TADS) were applied at both low (0.50 lbs/M) and high (1.0 lbs/M) rates of water soluble nitrogen in May 2003 to enhance the transition from ryegrass to bermudagrass. Overall, the 0.2-ounce product/M rate of TADS herbicide, regardless of applied -N- rate produced excellent turfgrass color, density and overall turf quality. The same 0.2-ounce rate produced a good spring transition. Overall, the 0.4-ounce rate of TADS produced slightly more bermuda than the 0.2-ounce rate at the "end" of the transition (June 6). The higher fertility rates yielded better quality, color and turf density during transition then the low -N- rate when TADS was applied at the 0.4-ounce/product/M rate. Note that Tifway bermudagrass has in general, a more decumbent growing bermuda than common bermudagrass, which is less competitive during spring transition than Tifway 419. In summary, all rates of TADS enhanced spring transition. When the high rate of TADS is used on Tifway 419 (0.4 ounce/product/M), then better turf performance was achieved with the higher -N- rate applied in early May.