I summer period , it is necessary to adapt the
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With Marathon ALGAE fertiliser , turf prepares its “ summer body ”!
n preparation for the
I summer period , it is necessary to adapt the
fertilisation of sports pitches and golf courses . Advice on the correct analysis is available from Collier Turf Care to help find the right ‘ fitness programme ’ for your sports turf .
Late spring and summer regularly bring variable periods of heat , drought , or precipitation . So many changes in conditions that affect turf , at a time when pitch use is increasing , and there are less opportunities for fertilisation .
To ensure that playing surfaces are as well prepared as possible for this period , we interviewed Emmanuel Bausson , Product Manager Turf and Amenities for Olmix Plant care .
First of all , can you describe the main problems for turf during the summer period ? E . B . They are mainly of two kinds . On the one hand , irregular growth due to variations in temperature and humidity , and on the other , an increased risk of disease . After frequent mowing in spring , there is always some uncollected residue , which gradually builds up to form a thatch . This layer of undecomposed organic matter maintains a damp , asphyxiating environment , conducive to the development of disease . The absorption of nutrients by turf can also be more complicated in summer . Heat and drought are naturally more frequent during this period , which affects sap flow in the plant and therefore the absorption and circulation of nutrients .
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In mid to late summer , it is recommended to use formulas that are richer in nitrogen , such as 16-4- 8 , to support the natural growth of turf at this time .
In the run-up to the summer , should we adjust the fertilisation of turf ? E . B . Yes , you should use fertiliser formulas that are enriched with potassium . Potassium helps to maintain osmotic pressure in plant cells , encouraging the flow of sap and the transport of nutrients for good turf nutrition . As for nitrogen , it is preferable to choose less reactive forms , such as urea or ammonium , to smooth out growth peaks . In the Marathon ALGAE range of fertilisers , we recommend using formulas with potassium sulphate such as 9-3-9 , 10-0-15 or 7-6-14 .
Can you remind us of the main characteristics of Marathon ALGAE fertilisers ? E . B . This is a range of fertilisers with an organo-mineral profile . In other words , it combines mineral forms of fertiliser to concentrate the formulas into a sufficient quantity of nutrients to meet the needs of turf , and an organic fraction to stimulate soil microbial activity . The organic component is carefully made up of dehydrated ( not composted ) matter , which makes it highly reactive on soil microflora , and dry seaweed
6 GroundskeepingJournal . co . uk | May / June 2024