Multiple contributors including Marco Volterrani, Alessandro De Luca, Giuseppe Bucelli, Simone Magni, and collaborators from the Italian Golf Federation and academic institutions (2019)
This handbook presents a comprehensive overview of ecological turfgrass transitions in Italy, highlighting practical, research-backed strategies to reduce chemical use, water consumption, and maintenance inputs on golf courses. It draws on the BioGolf programme and trials at Golf della Montecchia, where traditional high-input grasses were replaced by warm-season species such as bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon × transvaalensis) and zoysiagrass.
The document details agronomic challenges during conversion, including weed suppression, disease control (notably spring dead spot), and optimal timing for replanting. Results showed significant reductions in water, nitrogen, and pesticide inputs without compromising playability. Additional chapters cover innovative irrigation practices (e.g. deficit strategies, TDR sensors), mechanical maintenance tools (e.g. grooming, brushing, verticutting), and low-impact weed control.
Environmental benefits extended to biodiversity restoration, including habitat integration and waterway protection. The handbook provides case studies, species selection guides, and transition timelines, promoting turfgrass conversion as a viable response to EU environmental legislation and changing climate conditions. It supports golf clubs aiming to meet stricter sustainability expectations through adaptive turf management.
