Maintenance and management of sports turf

Sports Turf Maintenance and Management

Mowing Practices

Regular mowing plays a critical role in maintaining sports turf’s health and aesthetics by preventing weed proliferation, maintaining an even surface, and promoting denser grass growth.
The mowing frequency should be determined by the grass species, turf use, and weather conditions, with most sports turfs requiring mowing 1-3 times per week during the growing season.
The mowing height is crucial too. Grass cut too short is prone to stress, disease, and weed invasion, while grass cut too high may lack the required playability for certain sports.
Ensure to use sharp mower blades to avoid tearing grass and causing brown or yellow tips.
The clippings can be left on the turf during active growth periods to act as a natural fertiliser, but should generally be removed to prevent thatch build-up.

Irrigation Practices

Overwatering lawns can result in shallow root systems and disease susceptibility, while underwatering can lead to turf becoming weak and thin.
The best time to water is early morning, which reduces evaporation and also allows the grass to dry before nightfall, lessening disease risks.
Soil moisture sensors can be a useful tool to prevent over or underwatering.

Fertilization Practices

The nutritional needs of the sports turf are largely dependent on the grass species, soil type, and level of use.
Nitrogen is usually the most critical nutrient for promoting growth and maintaining a vibrant green colour. However, the addition of other nutrients such as phosphorous and potassium can be beneficial.
Use a soil test to determine nutrient levels and make informed decisions about fertilisation.

Aeration

Aeration is a process that helps to relieve soil compaction, improve water infiltration, and break down thatch.
Core aeration is the most common method, which involves removing small plugs of soil to create channels for water and oxygen. This should be performed once or twice a year, depending on turf usage.

Pest and Disease Management

Monitor the turf regularly for signs of pests or disease. Early detection allows for more effective treatment.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices should be used, involving a combination of cultural, biological, chemical, and physical methods.
Cultural practices, such as maintaining the correct mowing height and water and nutrient levels, can significantly reduce the risk of pests and disease.

Remember: A successful sports turf manager understands the specifics of their turf and adapts maintenance and management practices accordingly. Utilising the right techniques can greatly enhance turf health, aesthetics, and playability.