TURFGRASS INDUSTRY NEWS
Sod Checkoff Program Update Te U.S. Sod Checkoff program Referendum Period is open from January 13th to February 11th, 2025. Any U.S. sod producer who grew natural grass in 2024 is eligible to vote on this proposed program. Ballots have been mailed to all known sod producers, and anyone who does not receive a ballot can request one by emailing
Maribel.Reyna@
usda.gov. Ballots must be received before 5 pm on February 11th. See pages 46-48 of this issue, contact the TPI office at 800-405-8873, or go to the following link for more information.
https://turfgrasssod.org/ natural-grass-sod-checkoff-voting-opens-in-january/.
Seed Research of Oregon Transitions to Seed Research by DLF An October 23, 2024, press release announced that the Seed Research of Oregon® brand has officially transitioned to Seed Research by DLF™. Tis strategic change is part of a broader initiative by DLF to unify its brand presence across North America. Te shorter name, Seed Research, is already widely recognized among turf industry professionals, and the endorsement of DLF connects the popular brand to the global leader in turf and forage seed. Key elements of the transition include: Retaining the brand identity: While the name is evolving, the brand will maintain a key visual element—its iconic red color—in the new logo to ensure that existing customers recognize the brand. Enhanced packaging and marketing assets: Updated packaging and marketing materials will help elevate the high-quality products included in the Seed Research by DLF portfolio. Tese enhancements are designed to provide greater value and support to sales efforts, making it easier for the brand’s distributors to connect with their customers. Seamless access to information: As part of the transition, all product information and resources will be made available on DLF’s new website, which is scheduled to be unveiled this fall. DLF is the global market leader in turf and forage seed, supplying seeds to more than 100 countries. Te company is owned by Danish seed farmers and has a complete supply chain within turf and forage seed, sugar and fodder beet seed, seed potatoes, and multiplication of vegetable seed. For more information on DLF’s North American business, visit
www.dlfna.com.
MVP Genetics and Bethel Farms Align to Launch New Turfgrass Cultivars In a November 15, 2024, press release, Bethel Farms, LLLP announced its alignment with MVP Genetics, a pioneer in high-performance vegetative turfgrass cultivars based in Salem, Oregon. Tis collaboration marks the launch of two cutting- edge turfgrass cultivars, Gateway Zoysia and Durban Seashore Paspalum, with plans to introduce additional innovative grasses in the future through Bethel’s extensive networks. Tis alignment merges MVP Genetics’ leading turfgrass research and breeding expertise with Bethel Farms’ 65-year legacy of sod cultivation, distribution, and market development. Bethel Farms will manage the exclusive sub-licensing of MVP’s cultivars within its networks, while MVP Genetics will provide robust support to ensure the success and growth of this collaboration. Future efforts will include partnerships with leading land-grant universities to expand research and advance the development of turfgrasses tailored to the evolving needs of
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sod production and landscaping. Adam Russell, Vice President of MVP Genetics, stated, "Tis partnership with Bethel Farms is a major milestone in our purpose to deliver products that build health and enjoyment in all people through the planting of natural grass. Without exception, we look to partner with great people first, and the team at Bethel has a deep history of farming combined with an outstanding set of farms, production, and research-focused sales teams.” Te initial launch of Gateway Zoysia and Durban Seashore Paspalum underscores the shared commitment of Bethel Farms and MVP Genetics to deliver innovative solutions to the turfgrass market. Tese cultivars are designed to meet the demand for environmentally sustainable, durable, and visually appealing grasses, ideal for a range of applications. “Tis partnership represents the collaboration of two like-minded teams dedicated to advancing the industry with innovative turfgrass solutions. We are excited about the impact this alliance will have for years to come and beyond.” -Will Nugent
Super-Sod® Expands to Texas by Uniting with Tri-Tex Grass In a November 26, 2024, press release Super-Sod® , a leader in
premium sod and turfgrass products, proudly announced they have joined forces with Tri-Tex Grass, a prominent turfgrass grower headquartered in Granbury, Texas. Tis strategic partnership aligns with Super-Sod's commitment to delivering high-quality turf solutions and expanding its footprint across the Southern United States. Founded in 2004, Tri-Tex Grass has established a reputation for excellence in customer service and turfgrass production, serving North and Central Texas. With over 1,500 acres of sod across multiple farms, Tri-Tex offers a range of grass varieties that align with Super-Sod’s offerings, including Zeon®
Zoysia,
Certified Tifway 419 Bermuda, and the drought-tolerant TifTuf®
Bermuda.
Tis partnership expands Super-Sod’s distribution capabilities to serve customers in Texas and neighboring regions. Te new collaboration allows the Tri-Tex team to utilize the synergies between the two companies, which will most benefit their customers. Existing Tri-Tex Grass stores and farms will continue under the Super-Sod brand. Customers can expect a seamless transition with continued access to the high-quality products and services they have come to trust. Te acquisition of Tri-Tex Grass marks a significant step in Super-Sod's growth strategy, opening new opportunities for customers and the combined teams. Super-Sod is a vertically integrated turfgrass and compost company with farms and retail locations throughout Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and now Texas. Tey sell lawn care products and specialize in sod that’s available by the individual roll, full pallet, or bulk truckload.
Te ScottsMiracle-Gro Company Newest TWCA Member In an October 30, 2024, press release the Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance (TWCA) welcomed its newest seed producer member, Te ScottsMiracle-Gro Company. Te newest of five fully independent producer members, ScottsMiracle-Gro brings a unique, retail-oriented perspective to the TWCA board. Acquisitions in 2021 now give
TPI Turf News January/February 2025
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