T sports fields leads to progressive soil
TOP DRESSING
HEALTHY SOIL: THE ESSENTIAL“ MATRIX” FOR THE QUALITY OF SPORTS TURF
he continual use of
T sports fields leads to progressive soil
compaction that requires regular mechanical interventions. Without such maintenance, turf becomes weakened and increasingly vulnerable to climatic stress, disease, and tearing. To maintain both soil and turf in optimal condition, Matrix offers a solution.
found that incorporating 10 % of Matrix into topdressing substrate improved soil moisture retention while limiting hydromorphic
The trampling of players and the repeated use of maintenance equipment cause compaction, typically localised in the top five to ten centimetres of soil depth, and sometimes deeper. However, it is within these layers that 80 % of the roots are concentrated. This compaction impairs the effective circulation of air and water, restricts root development, and reduces soil microbial activity.
To minimise the need for frequent and costly aeration operations, Olmix offers the Matrix solution, an organomineral soil improver featuring SEADRY ® technology
Marine algae extract to support soil microflora Through its influence on organic matter, soil microbial activity releases compounds that help bind soil aggregates, maintaining porosity essential for air and water movement. To enhance this natural process, Matrix incorporates SEADRY ® technology, which leverages the richness of marine algae in specific sugars with prebiotic properties that stimulate soil microflora activity. This effect is reinforced by additional organic extracts of plant origin, rich in proteins and cellulose. Matrix’ s organic component is supported by a mineral complex, consisting of clinoptilolite( zeolite powder), diatomaceous earth, and calcium— elements known for their capacity to retain water, minerals, clays, and humus. As sports turf soils are largely sand-based and thus highly filtrating, Matrix is critical to keeping water and nutrients available to the root zone.
Matrix enhances turf growth conditions During trials at the Golfclub Zwolle in the Netherlands, it was conditions( excess water). Over a two-year period, measurements revealed an average increase of 4.5 % in soil moisture for the Matrix-treated plots. This corresponds to a difference of 13 litres of water per square meter-enough to extend water availability to turf and promote sustained growth, particularly during summer months. Higher soil moisture levels also help maintain ions in solution, enhancing nutrient bioavailability for turfgrass. Conductivity measurements from a rugby field managed by a local authority in the Auvergne-Rhône- Alpes region of France showed a 33 % increase in conductivity following Matrix applications. By stimulating soil microbial activity, maintaining porosity, reducing waterlogging, and improving retention of water and minerals, Matrix creates optimal conditions for the development of healthy, vigorous turf with deep root systems, which is more resilient to pests and weed invasion.
For more information on Matrix and other Olmix products, contact Collier Turf Care on 01328 700600 or email sales @ collier-turf-care. co. uk
6 GroundskeepingJournal. co. uk | May / June 2025