Turfgrass Certification Standards
Certification standards for vegetatively propagated turfgrass.
Program Information
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Certified Crop | Turfgrass |
| Certification | Vegetatively Propagated Turfgrass |
| Certification Classes | Foundation, Registered, Certified |
| Required Inspections | Three official inspections |
| Application Deadline | Refer to Turfgrass Program Requirements |
Seedstock Eligibility
- Only turfgrass planting material approved by ACIA as eligible for certification may be entered into the certification program.
- Source material shall maintain documented varietal identity throughout production.
Land Requirements
- Fields must meet ACIA requirements for previous turfgrass production, volunteer turfgrass control, and field eligibility.
Field Inspection
- Three official inspections are conducted annually: spring, summer, and fall.
- Each inspection evaluates variety identity, off-type grasses, volunteer grasses, noxious and objectionable weeds, and overall field condition.
Isolation Requirements
Plantings of vegetatively propagated turfgrass must be isolated from other varieties and other perennial grasses by an artificial barrier and/or an isolation strip at least 6 feet wide to prevent mixing during the growing season and harvesting operation.
Field Standards
Maximum permitted levels, aligned with AOSCA vegetatively propagated turfgrass standards.
| Field Factor | Foundation | Registered | Certified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off-types (other kinds or varieties) | None per acre | None per acre | 1 per acre |
| Other living plants | None per acre | None per acre | 1 per acre |
| Noxious or objectionable weeds | None permitted | None permitted | None permitted |
Areas exceeding a standard may be rogued or spot-treated and reinspected before certification. Certified sod, sprigs, or plugs must be accompanied by official certification documentation and remain traceable to the approved field.
Harvesting and Handling
- Harvesting, handling, identification, storage, and shipment of vegetative planting material shall maintain varietal identity.