As rain returns to many parts of Europe following the summer drought, many turf managers are starting the process of overseeding. For those who choose to overseed, careful planning is needed to maximise seedling germination and establishment as well as grass retention long term.
A proven soil surfactant will overcome water repellency, enhance water infiltration and ensure that irrigation water or rain wets the soil and seed evenly for faster, more uniform germination.
In an age of increasing costs, budget cuts and water restrictions the demand to get the most out of introduced seed has never been greater. This autumn use Aquatrols soil surfactants as a part of this process to maximise the benefits from introduced seed.
For best results, soil surfactants should be applied two weeks before seeding to prepare the soil. A second application is beneficial three to four weeks after seedling establishment to ensure continued soil moisture uniformity. On greens and tees consider Revolution or Primer Select whilst for fairways and roughs, consider applying Dispatch Sprayable.
Soil surfactants will help:
- Reduce seedling mortality by optimising hydration and water distribution
- Provide an optimum environment for increased seed germination
- Reduce erosion or movement of seed by surface water run-off
- Give better distribution of nutrients for uniform establishment and growth
- Give continued establishment and growth due to proper air to water ratios in the soil
Consider Autumn Wetting Agent Applications Following Summer Drought Stress
As we head into autumn many golf course managers are facing the task of supporting turf recovery through drought damaged tee and fairway areas. The return of rain typically results in some areas greening up but other areas remaining weak, yellow and discoloured. As a result, playing quality can start to decline as the playing surface lacks uniformity. The key to successful turf surface recovery is to establish water penetration through all areas and allow autumn rain to infiltrate uniformly into the soil profile. For hydrophobic areas this may require an application of Aqueduct, otherwise for fairways and roughs we recommend spraying Dispatch Sprayable.
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