Spring Treatment

THE SOLUTION EXPLAINED IN 5 EASY STEPS:

What is the thatch zone? The undecomposed, or partly decomposed layer of organic matter situated above the soil surface and the turf grass shoots, is called the thatch layer.  In other words, the dead organic matter between the grass and soil.

Why is thatch build up bad? Roots and rhizomes originate from the thatch layer and not the soil, which inhibits turf grass system’s inherent tolerance against biotic- and abiotic stresses, which is not neutralized by microbial decomposition.

A shallow root system and carbon monoxide buildup in the soil prevents the uptake of oxygen, nutrients and causes nutrient imbalances. More irrigation cycles are required due to plant stress, uneven playing surfaces and an increased amount of athlete injuries. The grass is also more susceptible to diseases.

How do we fix it? Excessive thatch should be removed by means of scarifying, fraise mowing or verti-cutting and vacuuming. Not only to remove the dead organic matter, but also cutting out all the uneven surfaces to ensure a firm and even playing surface.

We utilize specialized equipment to de-thatch and vacuum the built-up thatch layer to ensure healthy, stress free, firm and even playing surfaces.

What is aeration? Aeration is the frequent introduction of atmospheric air into the soil. In turn, it allows the carbon monoxide to escape from the soil and provides oxygen to the root system that will   enhance new root development.

Why is it necessary? Soil water retention increases dramatically. The capillary plant-available water creates a new and stronger root system that is more tolerant against drought, heat stress, disease infestation to enable higher traffic-tolerance to the surface.

Our machinery allows tining and core compaction relieving up to a depth of 300mm if soil conditions allow. Unlike the practices known in the industry, our machinery allows aeration without the disruption of sports activities, or the requirement to cancel, or postpone events. Fields can be used hours after aeration.

How often should I aerate? Depending on usage of your facility, it is normally only required once every year. For high use sports fields, we recommend aeration twice a year, in combination with our amelioration program.

Why topdress? To supplement the root system with organic matter.

It is also the only way to fill depressions and ensure a level playing surface.

Topdressing is spread with a tractor and levelling blade that ensures filling of depressions and an even thickness.

Topdressing can also be applied with a soil spreader, also referred to as dusting.

How thick must topdressing be applied? Not more than 15mm. More than 15mm  thickness will influence plant growth and starve the root system of   required oxygen. On average, only a 10mm thickness is adequate.

What sets us apart from the rest, is that we are all about natural soil conditioning, longevity and sustainability. There are quite a few common fertigation recipes that can be followed, but we would rather take the longer, healthier and more sustainable approach that will not bruise your wallet and save you a fortune over the whole season.

We put the beneficial bacteria and plant-available carbon back into the soil, which works       symbiotically with plants to enhance nutrient uptake, a key to plant health, which provides plants with additional energy for growth, defense, and reproduction.

We promote textural quality and the constant improvement of soil structural aggregate         rhizospheres in natural processes to enhance photosynthesis, production of carbon and the translocation of carbon to the root zone.

Let’s explain the process in laymen’s terms:

We apply beneficial bacteria to activate natural soil life for the plant to generate its own N:P:K and only balance the chemical requirement for the natural processes to take place. We put carbon back into the soil and increase bacterial life, which in turn promotes soil structure, natural aeration and decomposition of organic matter. The benefit to the field is a stronger root system that will tolerate more traffic, fewer weeds and diseases and reduced irrigation cycles. Therefore we reduce expenses.

Before you start the entire process,    ensure that your irrigation system is  functional and the entire surface can be watered. We would gladly assist to    ensure your system is functional and able to fulfill the water requirement.

To achieve maximum aeration results, irrigate / moisten the area before        aeration.

Thereafter wash the topdressing into the root zone and to dissolve the fertilizers and activate the natural processes to promote plant growth.