Turfgrass Epistemology

S3 E35 Which Turfgrass Uses the Least Water? Surprising Results from Oregon Research

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, we dive into a study from Oregon State University that looked at how turfgrass species and mowing height affect water requirements in western Oregon. The results might surprise you—tall fescue and perennial ryegrass significantly outperformed fine fescues when it came to conserving water.
We’ll break down the data on evapotranspiration replacement, irrigation intervals, and how mowing height can influence your watering schedule. Should you mow higher? Should you convert to tall fescue? This video gives you practical, science-backed guidance on how to choose and manage turfgrasses for water conservation.
📄 Paper discussed: Blankenship et al. (2020), Water Requirements Influenced by Turfgrass Species and Mowing Height in Western Oregon
💧 Learn how this research can help you irrigate less without sacrificing turf quality.🌱 Understand why fine fescues aren’t always the drought champions they’re marketed to be.📏 Discover how mowing height makes a measurable difference in water demand.
🔔 Subscribe to Turfgrass Epistemology for more turf science and myth-busting insights.
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

S3 E34 Comments and Emails. June 2025. Part 2.

In this episode, I dive into the comment section and my inbox to respond to the most interesting, insightful, and downright puzzling messages I’ve received from viewers. From soil test questions and fertilizer theories to passionate turf debates and a few questionable product claims—nothing is off limits.
Whether you're here to learn, laugh, or just see if your message made the cut, this video is a behind-the-scenes look at the community that makes Turfgrass Epistemology what it is.
Let’s talk turf, tackle misinformation, and maybe share a few facepalms along the way.
🧪 Science, skepticism, and sarcasm—it’s all here.📩 Have a comment or question of your own? Drop it below or email me.
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf
Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

S3 E33 Comments and Emails. June 2025. Part 1.

In this episode, I dive into the comment section and my inbox to respond to the most interesting, insightful, and downright puzzling messages I’ve received from viewers. From soil test questions and fertilizer theories to passionate turf debates and a few questionable product claims—nothing is off limits.
Whether you're here to learn, laugh, or just see if your message made the cut, this video is a behind-the-scenes look at the community that makes Turfgrass Epistemology what it is.
Let’s talk turf, tackle misinformation, and maybe share a few facepalms along the way.
🧪 Science, skepticism, and sarcasm—it’s all here.📩 Have a comment or question of your own? Drop it below or email me.
👉 Subscribe to learn how we know what we know.
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Article: https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/34/5/article-p893.pdf
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

S3 E32 Tinfoil Turfgrass: Debunking Summer Lawn Care Myths

In this video, I critically examine the advice presented in "How to Fertilize in Hot Weather. Dog urine spot prevention, fungus recovery, general fertilizer." While the original video offers practical tips on lawn care during hot weather, it's essential to scrutinize the recommendations to ensure they align with best practices and scientific understanding.
Key Points Discussed:- Fertilizing in High Temperatures: Assessing the risks and benefits of applying fertilizer during peak heat and its impact on lawn health.- Dog Urine Spot Prevention: Evaluating the suggested methods for preventing and treating urine spots caused by pets.- Fungus Recovery Strategies: Analyzing the effectiveness of the proposed treatments for lawn fungi and their scientific backing.- General Fertilizer Recommendations: Discussing the appropriateness of the fertilizer types and application rates mentioned.
Join me as I dissect these topics, providing evidence-based insights and highlighting any misconceptions or areas lacking scientific support. Whether you're a homeowner aiming for a lush lawn or a lawn care professional, this critique aims to inform and guide effective lawn maintenance practices.
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf
Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

S3 E31 Drought Testing. Which Grass Uses the Least Water?

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, we analyze a pivotal field study that tested the drought resistance and irrigation needs of five common turfgrass species under real-world conditions in northern Texas. Using a unique linear gradient irrigation system, Qian and Engelke evaluated how ‘Tifway’ bermudagrass, ‘Meyer’ zoysiagrass, ‘Rebel II’ tall fescue, ‘Prairie’ buffalograss, and ‘Nortam’ St. Augustinegrass performed under a wide range of watering regimes—from excess irrigation to complete reliance on rainfall.
What did they find? Not all turfgrasses respond the same way to drought—or to overwatering. Some thrived under low water input, while others demanded more than expected. We’ll explore which species held up under stress, which became disease-prone when overwatered, and what this means for water-conscious turf managers today.
If you're a turfgrass professional, a researcher, or just someone trying to maintain a healthy lawn with less water, this episode will give you real insight into how turf performance and water use intersect in the field—not just in the greenhouse.
Turfgrass science, evidence-based management, and no gimmicks. Let’s dig in.
#TurfgrassScience #DroughtResistance #IrrigationResearch #TurfManagement #SoilScience #WaterConservation #LawnCare #TurfgrassEpistemology
👉 Subscribe to learn how we know what we know.
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Article: https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/34/5/article-p893.pdf
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

S3 E30 Tinfoil Turfgrass: University Study Misused? The Truth About Liquid Aeration.

He flashes university research to sell Air 8—but is it the whole story? In this video, I break down the science he didn’t show you. Liquid aeration sounds impressive, but does the data actually support the hype? Let’s dig into what the university study really says—and what he conveniently left out. If you're serious about turfgrass and tired of marketing spin dressed up as science, this one's for you.
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf
Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

S3 E29 Which Grass Survives Water Restrictions?

Which Grass Survives Water Restrictions? Science Has the Answer.On this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, we dive into a long-term study that puts warm-season turfgrasses to the test under real-world municipal water restrictions. Which species held up best when irrigation was limited to once or twice a week? How do turf quality, coverage, and drought resilience stack up over time?
Join me as we examine what the science actually says—not the marketing claims—about how Zoysia, Bermuda, and other species perform under regulated irrigation frequencies. This research has big implications for homeowners, sports fields, golf courses, and city planners facing tighter water policies.
If you care about turf performance under drought pressure, this is the video you don’t want to miss.
📄 Based on: Long-term Performance of Warm-season Turfgrass Species under Municipal Irrigation Frequency Restrictions🎓 Turfgrass science | 💧 Water policy | 🔍 Evidence over opinion
👉 Subscribe to learn how we know what we know.
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Article: https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/56/10/article-p1221.xml
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf

S3 E28 Is Liquid Aeration a Scam?

You've seen the ads: "Liquid aeration breaks up soil compaction—no plugs, no mess!" But does it really work? This video dives into a new peer-reviewed study that compares liquid aeration products (humic acids, seaweed, fertilizer blends) with mechanical hollow-tine cultivation on hybrid bermudagrass fairways.
The results are eye-opening.
✅ Did liquid aeration improve turf health?✅ Can it reduce compaction like traditional aerification?✅ What really increases water infiltration and rooting?
Whether you're a turf manager, lawn care professional, or homeowner chasing the perfect lawn—this evidence-based review will help you separate marketing hype from measurable results.
📊 Spoiler: Not all "aeration" is created equal.
🔬 Backed by science. No fluff.👀 Watch now to see what works—and what doesn't.
Full article: https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/agj2.70062
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf
Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

S3 E27 Tinfoil Turfgrass - How to Apply Iron from Someone Who Knows Nothing About Iron.

Is "fast green" always the right goal? In this episode, I critique the video [How to Get a GREEN LAWN FAST] and unpack the science behind the three quick tips it promotes. Are these practices sustainable—or just shortcuts with hidden consequences? Join me as we separate turfgrass fact from flashy fiction.
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf
Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view

S3 E26 Tall Fescue Response to Irrigation Intervals

Discover how tall and hard fescue respond to water stress in this deep dive into the science of deficit irrigation. In this episode, we explore a peer-reviewed study that reveals how reduced water inputs affect turf performance, rooting, and drought resilience. If you're managing turf in a water-limited environment, this research has critical insights you don't want to miss.
article: https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.2135/cropsci1989.0011183X002900060045x
👍 Like & Subscribe for more turfgrass science!
Join Turfgrass Epistemology to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UZnHkJhAmARDZ4YoHnc_A/join
Voicemail:859-444-4234
Apple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turfgrass-epistemology/id1717271379
Spotify Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/1cTpdrChToeEFAOX9wkXFI
iHeart Radio Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-turfgrass-epistemology-129043524/
Podbeanhttps://turfgrassepistemology.podbean.com/
Online consultingCalendly.com/TravisShaddox
TwitterTwitter.com/TravisShaddox
EmailTravisShaddox@gmail.com
Turfgrass Programs and Extension Service Information:https://www.usna.usda.gov/assets/images/as_pdf_image/LandGrantColleges.pdf