Physiological and turf quality responses of tall fescue to varying irrigation levels and nitrogen doses under Mediterranean climate conditions

Our findings suggest that acceptable turf color and quality throughout the year can be achieved with a 50% irrigation level and a nitrogen dose of 5.00 g m^-2. A more economical and environmentally friendly alternative may be the combination of 50% irrigation and 2.50 g m^-2 nitrogen, which is particularly effective in spring and autumn. In contrast, the combination of 25% or 50% irrigation with 1.25 g m^-2 nitrogen did not result in acceptable turf quality in any season. However, acceptable turf color and quality can still be maintained in water-limited regions, especially during spring and autumn, by applying 5 g m^-2 nitrogen under 25% irrigation.