Phosphorus (P) is a component of phospholipids, nucleic acids and molecules that store energy. It increases yield and water and nutrients use efficiency. Phosphorus turfgrass content is essential for root development, and, indirectly, nutrient uptake. The aim of this research was to determine soil and turfgrass blade phosphorus dynamics on two recreational (parks Bundek and Jarun) and two sports (Hippodrome and SP Mladost) turfgrasses in the city of Zagreb and determine adequate fertilization. Soil and plant material sampling was performed three times during the growing season 2012 in each of the four investigated locations. The results showed that, generally, soil phosphorus content was low or even turfgrass blade phosphorus content was on the lower end of optimal supply range. Soil phosphorus values ranged from 1.78 to 6.78 mg P2O5 100 g-1, while turfgrass blade phosphorus content ranged from 0.15 to 0.45 % P. Sampling time does not affect turfgrass blade phosphorus content. Due to the particularly low soil and turfgrass blade phosphorus status, special attention when designing the fertilization program should be given to phosphorus application with at least 10 g of P2O5 m-2 in the early spring, and, if necessary, with 1 g of P2O5 m-2 during the growing season.

fertilization, lawn, nutrient, macroelement, soil

Published by University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagreb, CROATIA
Sponsored by Ministry Science and Education of the Republic of Croatia