The turf on the football field in the photo on this page has excellent density, out-standing color, great uniformity, and no sign of ally disease or insect problems. So, what's wrong? The answer can be found in the picture, but not easily recognizedwithout another piece of information-the game schedule. This turf has peaked 2 mouths before the first sporting event. Now you may not see this as a problem. After all, we all know that a manager is better off to have the turf ready early than late. Early turf heats late in most situations, but does early beat "on time" or "peak" turf performance? Peak performance refers to tuff growth and quality that maximizes (peaks) immediately before or at the start of play. The management strategy of peaking turfis not new to golf course superintendents, who will adjust cultural practices, nutrition, and water to, peak turf just before a tournament, then readjust for everyday golf. The superintendent's adjustments in management are designed to match turf quality with player expectations over a season. In sports turf, the common management strategy appears to be one of peaking the turf early, then holding quality. Both approaches have been successful and there is no doubt that golf and sport turfs are very different and may not even be comparable. The pressure oil the sports turf manager to maintain quality turf at all times is intense and trying. The early peak, then hold strategy is a compelling choice given the high expectations of players, fans, coaches, and administrators for high quality turf no matter what the circumstance or season.
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