TECHNICALLY SPEAKING
Using Soil Moisture Meters
M
any superintendents are taking advantage of the technology of precision instruments that are available on the market today to take the guess work out of determining moisture levels on their turf playing surfaces. They are a little bit pricey but well worth the money. One of the meters has two probes that, when inserted in the ground, measures the percent water volume content in the soil. Some models allow you to stand upright and take 15-20 readings quickly around each green at any given time. With a real percent moisture number reading to use to regulate water, you don’t need to count on how they look and feel. With readings taken at frequent and consistent intervals, it will become apparent which areas are the driest and wettest. The instrument will help determine when to water greens at night and how much. Most superintendents claim they water less and their greens are firmer and faster. Some models will hook up to a GPS unit and allow you to capture moisture data, download your measurements to
your computer and generate maps. This map can be given to everyone with a hose to identify areas requiring different levels of hand watering. This helps “even out” the greens to help deliver consistent firmness throughout the day. It’s important that turf managers know their water requirements, application rates and problem spots in their irrigation systems. It’s a time where there are economic and environmental reasons to use less water. There also seems to be far fewer summertime problems if you can keep your greens dry and firm. Let’s hope this summer is not too wet to allow for it. ■ Jim Flett, B.Sc. (Agronomy), AGS ® Golf Course Superintendent Muskoka Lakes Golf & Country Club Phone: (705) 765-3165 Email: jflett@mlgcc.com
It’s more than “just” a penetrant.
• Reduce runoff on sloped turf areas by 20% or more • Enhance penetration and distribution of water and nutrients • Reduce water use on cool-season grasses by 25% or more • Maintain turf quality at reduced ET replacements rates
Aquatrols
Aquatrols
®
26 Green is Beautiful • Spring 2011
800-257-7797 • www.aquatrols.com