The Grass Is Greener On The Other Side, When It's Turf - RDA 416
As summer tees off in Oklahoma, Episode 416 of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast dives into the turf beneath our feet with Dr. Charles Fontanier, Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science at Oklahoma State University. This episode is a must-listen for golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, and homeowners alike as we explore OSU's impactful turfgrass breeding program. Dr. Fontanier breaks down the unique challenges of growing Bermuda grass in Oklahoma’s transition zone, tackling issues from winterkill to drought stress and the science behind high-performance sports fields. From the development of elite turf varieties like Latitude 36, NorthBridge, and Tahoma 31, to innovative strategies for traffic tolerance, shade management, and even NFL-grade sod transport, this episode showcases OSU’s role in revolutionizing the turfgrass industry. You will learn about how these grasses are selected, tested, and distributed—and why turfgrass management is about much more than keeping it green.
Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast · Charles Fontanier Ph.D., Josh Lofton Ph.D., Dave Deken, Raedan Sharry Ph.D., Brian Arnall Ph.D.
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Show Notes
This episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast brings turf science to the forefront with Dr. Charles Fontanier from Oklahoma State University.
As the summer season sets in and Oklahoma’s golf courses and athletic fields buzz with activity, the discussion centers around the strategic development and management of Bermuda grass varieties bred to thrive in Oklahoma’s unpredictable climate.
Dr. Fontanier shares how OSU’s turfgrass research addresses winterkill, drought resilience, and the demand for tough, low-maintenance grasses that can still look good and perform under pressure.
From NFL stadiums to backyard lawns, OSU's impact is growing.
You will hear about standout varieties like Tahoma 31 and Latitude 36 and learn how science and collaboration have positioned OSU at the forefront of turf innovation.
Whether you're a turf manager, landscaper, or just passionate about keeping your lawn green through the extremes, this episode delivers insight with practical relevance.
Key Takeaways:
- OSU's turfgrass program focuses on Bermuda grass improvement for diverse uses.
- Oklahoma’s climate presents unique challenges for year-round turf maintenance.
- Latitude 36, NorthBridge, and Tahoma 31 have reshaped the industry.
- Tahoma 31 offers improved cold and drought tolerance.
- OSU emphasizes broad adaptability for national impact.
- Turf management varies significantly between homeowners and sports professionals.
- Sod distribution networks are essential for local turf availability.
- NFL and major stadiums use hybrid Bermuda for its resilience.
- Turfgrass breeding today focuses on low-input, sustainable systems.
- The economic and ecological stakes of turfgrass are deeply tied to local communities.
Timestamps:
00:02 – Introductions and episode preview
02:30 – OSU’s turfgrass breeding and management research
03:47 – Transition zone challenges and winterkill in Bermuda
06:06 – Turf management tips for homeowners and superintendents
08:13 – The rise of hybrid Bermuda for putting greens
10:36 – Development and applications of Latitude 36, NorthBridge, and Tahoma 31
13:05 – Trialing new varieties and OSU’s nationwide testing approach
17:35 – Seed vs. sod and local turfgrass availability
22:04 – Turf in sports stadiums and artificial vs. natural debate
27:04 – Maintenance economics and year-round field management
34:00 – Water-saving turf strategies and future of turf research
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