Effects of Phosphorus Fertilization and Turfgrass Clipping Management on Phosphorus Runoff

Phosphorus (P) enrichment of surface water and the role of home lawns as a source of P is a concern in many urban watersheds. A study was conducted on a silt loam soil with a 5% slope and high soil test P (27 mg kg-1 Bray P-1) to evaluate P fertilization and clipping management effects on P runoff from turfgrass (Poa pratensis L.). Phosphorus runoff was evaluated separately under frozen and non-frozen soil conditions. The study was conducted for five years following initiation of experimental treatments in Sept. 2004.