This page contains information pertaining to the turfgrass rootzone. Access resources for soil testing, rootzone selection, soil compaction and drainage.
Soil Testing
The basis for sound nutrient management and water quality protection programs in turfgrass management revolves around soil testing. A basic soil test will typically provide information on soil pH and the current levels of the macronutrients phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca). The test results give recommendations for nutrient applications that ensure health of the plants and eliminate excessive or unnecessary applications of nutrients. Soil tests should be conducted on a routine basis – every one (for sand-based fields) to three (for native soil fields) years is recommended.
For soil testing services, contact your local Cooperative Extension office/university soil testing lab or consult with your fertilizer suppliers/product vendors regarding licensed private labs that they can recommend.
For more information regarding soil testing and soil fertility, please visit the Fertility page in the Knowledge Center.
Turfgrass Rootzones
There are three basic types of athletic field rootzones:
- Natural soil – soil that exists at the site or topsoil that is transported to the site
- Modified soil – existing soil at the site that is mixed uniformly with a coarse physical amendment (such as sand)
- Soilless medium – a rootzone that is composed entirely of sand
Rootzone composition affects overall field performance, including turfgrass growth, nutrient retention, and water infiltration and percolation. Knowing the makeup of your rootzone can assist in reducing compaction, planning a fertility program and determining proper irrigation practices.
Determine Your Soil’s Texture Using the Feel Method
Soil Compaction
Soil compaction is the compression of topsoil, primarily due to foot or vehicular traffic. Excessive compaction can prevent the passage of air, water and nutrients into the soil. Turfgrasses growing on compacted soils generally have shallow root systems and poor density, exhibit stress symptoms more readily and have reduced recuperative potential.
Compaction management includes various cultivation practices, which are outlined under Cultivation/Topdressing of the Knowledge Center.
Drainage
Drainage is one of the most important issues when managing a sports field. Your field will not perform well if you do not have surface or internal drainage in place. Surface and subsurface drainage problems, such as standing water and high water tables, can pose a safety hazard to athletes and other users. These problems can also cause cancellation or postponement of events due to field closure. It is important to understand what types of drainage will work best for your field to enhance user safety and reduce field closures.
