Photoassimilate Distribution Plants and Crops Source-Sink Relationships

Closely mowed turf constitutes a relatively simple ecosystem. The plant component consists of a mixture of grasses, often comprising two or three species but not uncommonly a blend of cultivars from a single species. A few weedy plants usually complete the plant community. The soil environment normally supports an abundant microflora due to the frequent introduction of organic matter in the form of grass roots, rhizomes and shoot detritus. Root feeding arthropods and other invertebrate animals are also present in reasonable numbers. On the soil surface, a layer of organic detritus referred to as thatch accumulates in mature turf. Thatch can accumulate to a depth of several centimeters and is composed of dead culm bases, rhizomes and roots with minor contributions from leaf clippings.