The turn of the calendar  from April to May brought over 12 inches of rain in 36 hours, pushing many rivers well above flood stage throughout Tennessee. As we enter the heat of the summer, it is important to discuss the implications of flooding on turf.

Prolonged periods of under water submersion can certainly weaken turf. Dr. Jim Beard has reported that the level of injury following submersion is dependent on several things including:

1. The depth to which the turf was submerged (deeper is worse)

2. Whether or not the water is stagnant or flowing (stagnant is worse)

3. Water temperature (warmer water is more injurious)

Deposition of debris (salt, soil, brush, etc.) can be a major problem after a flood as well. In the event that silt and other debris has been moved on-site, it should be removed as soon as possible.

The stress of this past flood will certainly weaken turf stands going into the summer, making them far more susceptible to weed invasion. In particular, turf weeds such as Virginia buttonweed, yellow nutsedge, purple nutsedge, white clover, and goosegrass may become more problematic throughout the state as they are common in wet soils. It is also likely that turf managers will be forced to control weeds not regularly seen in turf situations that were carried on-site with floodwaters. Be sure to visit the publications page for information on herbicide selection and contact your local Extension professional with questions.

Germantown C.C., Germantown, TN. Photo by Doug Estes