No one considers turf when they’re watching a football game, or a baseball game, or even a game on a golf course. However, the length of the grass, the aeration of the soil, and even the level of fertilization have more to do with the game than people realize. Here is how Sports Field Turf Maintenance affects the ground upon which sports are played.
Length Of The Grass
The length of grass is determined by the type of grass, field use, and how management wants the field to look, among other points. If the turf is cut too low, the roots can’t properly process food, it gets weeds, and is weak, inviting pests.
Most playing fields are planted in Kentucky bluegrass or ryegrass. For football, soccer, and baseball fields, recommended grass height is two and a half inches. Multi-use fields are recommended to have three inch grass.
Soil Aeration
If homeowners notice how carpet is compacted in certain areas from foot traffic, then the compaction of a sports field would be obvious. Foot traffic and machinery compact the soil. This means that water and nutrients can’t get to the root system.
Aerating the soil allows water and nutrients to penetrate the soil. The root system will flourish, and the grass will look like a green carpet. Typical Sports Field Turf Maintenance recommends not to aerate the soil directly after a rain. Nor should the soil be aerated when it’s too dry. Forty-eight hours following a rain is the advised time to aerate the soil.
Fertilization
Sport field safety and playing environment depend on turf compactness. Before embarking on a fertilization regime, it is wise to test the soil. If the ground is good, meaning having enough phosphorus, nitrogen, and other nutrients, then fertilize away. Other factors in a fertilization routine include grass type, months in playing time, and amount of field use.
1st Products offers all you’ll need to keep your playing fields healthy and beautiful. Feel free to contact us to learn how we can help you.
