Summer is coming, which means water sports, barbeques, shorter days – and potential problems for sports fields while school is out. The increasing heat will cause problems for athletic fields, and regular maintenance is required to keep turf or grass healthy in the off season.
Irrigation and Watering
Why do so many fields become rock hard or powdery? What is the best way to maintain moisture during these warm summer months?
First and foremost, check the field’s irrigation system to ensure it’s working properly. If you are unsure, a San Antonio sports field maintenance professional can confirm everything is ready.
Deep irrigation should be utilized 1-2 times per week. This process forces the root to find water deep within the soil, building a stronger root system. In addition to deep irrigation, fields should be watered daily. Do this in the morning before the heat of the day causes moisture to evaporate; this also provides time for the field to dry before a sporting event. Watering the field after an event also promotes growth and recovery.
Prevent Mud and Puddles
For a healthy field in the San Antonio sun, aim to prevent mud and puddles. Simply avoid watering when rain is coming, and remove puddles via aeration and topdressing. Use sand or a similar product to prevent and remove puddles.
Aerate and Topdress
Aeration loosens the soil beneath the athletic field so water and air can move freely. Additionally, topdressing prevents soil compaction and promotes a loose root system. These processes ensure that roots of the turf are getting the nutrients they need to thrive and grow. Topdressing should be implemented at least twice each year, ideally before the summer.
Mowing Schedule
A good mowing schedule plays a large role in athletic field maintenance. Mow the field once or twice each week, and follow the 1/3 grass length rule: no more than 1/3 of the grass should be cut during each mowing. Strive to keep grass around 2 inches, and mow in different directions each time to promote turf strength.
Practice the above suggestions for proper athletic maintenance, and your athletic field will remain healthy throughout the summer months.
If you have any questions about maintaining an athletic field, contact a San Antonio sports field maintenance professional at Bob Jenkins Pest Control and Lawn Services.
