Turfgrass Epistemology

This podcast explores how we know what we know about turfgrass science. If you are a lawn care operator, sport field manager, sod producer, golf superintendent, or a home owner, this podcast provides evidence-based information to help you better manage your turfgrass.
This podcast explores how we know what we know about turfgrass science. If you are a lawn care operator, sport field manager, sod producer, golf superintendent, or a home owner, this podcast provides evidence-based information to help you better manage your turfgrass.
Episodes
Episodes
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
S3 E7 Fate and Activity of Applied Soil Microorganisms & Tinfoil Turfgrass #1
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Discover what happens to microorganisms when they are introduced into the soil! This video explores their survival, adaptation, and role in nutrient cycling, plant growth promotion, and soil health. Learn how factors like environmental conditions, competition, and soil properties influence microbial activity and effectiveness. 🌍✨
🔹 Microbial interactions in soil🔹 Environmental influences on survival🔹 Benefits for agriculture and sustainability
Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights into soil microbiology! 👍🔔 #SoilMicrobiology #Microbes #SustainableFarming
van Veen JA, van Overbeek LS, van Elsas JD. Fate and activity of microorganisms introduced into soil. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev. 1997 Jun;61(2):121-35. doi: 10.1128/mmbr.61.2.121-135.1997. PMID: 9184007; PMCID: PMC232604.
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
Thursday Jan 30, 2025
S3 E6 Nanobubbles for Dollar Spot Suppression?
Thursday Jan 30, 2025
Thursday Jan 30, 2025
Discover the latest research on innovative turfgrass management! 🌱 This video explores the scientific article, "Evaluation of oxygenated and ozonated nanobubble water treatments for dollar spot suppression in seashore paspalum." Learn how advanced nanobubble water technology is being tested to combat dollar spot disease in seashore paspalum turfgrass. Can oxygenated and ozonated water treatments offer sustainable solutions? Watch to find out more about these groundbreaking approaches to turf health and disease management! 💧📘
📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on sustainable practices! 🌿
Spratling, W. T., Jespersen, D., Waltz, C., Martinez-Espinoza, A. D., & Bahri, B. A. (2025). Evaluation of oxygenated and ozonated nanobubble water treatments for dollar spot suppression in seashore paspalum. Agronomy Journal, 117, e21744. https://doi.org/10.1002/agj2.21744
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
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
S3 E5 Organic Management Practices on Athletic Fields
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Explore the impact of organic management on athletic fields! 🌱 In this video, we dive into the study, "Organic Management Practices on Athletic Fields and the Effects on Turfgrass Color, Quality, Cover, and Weed Populations." Discover how organic practices influence turfgrass health, aesthetics, and weed control, and see how they compare to conventional methods. Whether you're a turf manager, sports field professional, or just curious about sustainable practices, this research has valuable insights for everyone. 🏟️📘
Miller, N.A. and Henderson, J.J. (2012), Organic Management Practices on Athletic Fields: Part 1. The Effects on Color, Quality, Cover, and Weed Populations. Crop Science, 52: 890-903. https://doi.org/10.2135/cropsci2011.07.0359
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
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
S3 E4 How Do We Measure Soil Health?
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
What exactly is soil health, and why does it matter? In this video, learn how soil functions as a living, dynamic system, supporting plant growth, storing carbon, cycling nutrients, and filtering water. Discover key indicators of soil health, including organic matter, microbial activity, nutrient levels, structure, and water-holding capacity.
Join us as we explore the science and practical tools to evaluate and improve soil health for a sustainable future! 🌍
📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on sustainable practices! 🌿
#SoilHealth #Sustainability #HealthySoil
Stewart, R.D., Jian, J., Gyawali, A.J., Thomason, W.E., Badgley, B.D., Reiter, M.S. and Strickland, M.S. (2018), What We Talk about When We Talk about Soil Health. Agricultural & Environmental Letters, 3: 180033. https://doi.org/10.2134/ael2018.06.0033
Dorsey, N. (2019), Understanding soil health testing. Crops & Soils, 52: 22-24. https://doi.org/10.2134/cs2019.52.0607
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
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
S3 E3 Double the Videos! Double the Bullsh?t!
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
This video challenges common misconceptions about soil testing for your lawn. It highlights misinformation about soil pH and boron levels, explaining how these factors are often misunderstood or misrepresented. Learn the science behind soil tests and how to interpret results accurately to improve your lawn care routine. Think you need a long list of expensive products for a healthy lawn? Think again! This video debunks claims about so-called "essential" lawn care products, helping you separate marketing hype from practical, effective lawn care strategies. Don’t fall for unnecessary expenses—watch now for expert advice!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights into critical thinking and self-protection!
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 consultinghttps://Calendly.com/TravisShaddox
Twitterhttps://Twitter.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
Thursday Jan 16, 2025
S3 E2 Base Saturation and Soil Health
Thursday Jan 16, 2025
Thursday Jan 16, 2025
Does base cation saturation really improve soil health? In this video, we explore the science behind base cation saturation ratios and why they may not deliver the soil health benefits often claimed. Learn how real-world data and research challenge this common misconception, and discover what truly matters for improving soil fertility and productivity. Watch now to separate myth from fact!
Chaganti VN, Culman SW, Herms C, Sprunger CD, et al., (2021). Base cation saturation ratios, soil health, and yield in organic field crops. Agronomy Journal. 2021; 113: 4190–4200. https://doi.org/10.1002/agj2.20785
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
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
How do synthetic and organic fertilizers impact athletic turfgrass performance and soil health? In this video, we dive into research on the effects of these fertilizers on turfgrass traffic tolerance, durability, and overall soil quality. Whether you're managing sports fields or curious about sustainable practices, this breakdown will give you insights to optimize turf performance and maintain soil health. Watch now for expert analysis and tips!
Dest, W. M., & Ebdon, J. S. (2025). Sustainability of athletic field turf comparing organic and synthetic practices under two heights of cut. Crop Science, 65, e21317. https://doi.org/10.1002/csc2.21317
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
Thursday Dec 19, 2024
S2 E120 December Comments and Emails
Thursday Dec 19, 2024
Thursday Dec 19, 2024
Join me as I dive into your comments and emails about lawns, golf courses, sod farms, and sports turfgrass! 🌱 From turf maintenance tips to the environmental impact of these green spaces, I’ll address your questions, concerns, and curiosities. Let’s talk about the science, sustainability, and care behind these grassy spaces we see every day. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more 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
Diagnostic Criteria for Turfgrass Bullshit Disorder:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y_GeVPQ237pzm0ImTP4eVij6I9D0PHPn/view
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
S2 E119 Cold Reading the Barnum Effect - Part 3
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Ever wondered how psychics, fortune-tellers, and even some salespeople seem to know so much about you? In this video, we dive into the fascinating psychology behind cold reading and the Barnum Effect—techniques used to make general statements feel deeply personal.
Understanding these methods is crucial to protect yourself from being misled or manipulated by con artists, scammers, and those who exploit trust. Learn how these tricks work, why they’re so convincing, and how to spot them before you’re taken advantage of. Knowledge is power—stay informed and stay in control!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights into critical thinking and self-protection!
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
Tuesday Dec 17, 2024
S2 E118 Effect of Ozonated Water on Bentgrass.
Tuesday Dec 17, 2024
Tuesday Dec 17, 2024
Does ozonated water really boost turfgrass health? In this video, we explore the science behind ozonated water and its impact on turfgrass performance. Despite its popularity in some circles, research shows limited benefits for turf health, growth, or resilience. Learn why traditional turf management practices often outperform ozonation and how you can focus on proven methods for healthier turf!
Sloan, J. J., & Engelke, M.C. (2005). Effect of Ozonated Water on Creeping Bentgrass Growth in a Sand Medium. HortTechnology horttech, 15(1), 148-152. Retrieved Dec 15, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH.15.1.0148
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

Turfgrass Epistemology
Turfgrass epistemology explorers the question 'How do we know what we know about turfgrass science?'. My name is Travis Shaddox and I am a past assistant professor at the Universities of Florida and Kentucky and I have worked in the golf, lawn care, sport turf, and fertilizer sales industries. I am mostly retired now and use my time to conduct a few experiments related to soil testing in turfgrass systems.
The objective of this channel is to provide turfgrass managers and DIYers with evidence-based information to help make their turfgrass experience more fulfilling. Scientific publications can be challenging to understand and it is my goal to interpret these publications in a way that is easy to understand and immediately impactful.









