Feature

The Turfgrass Trifecta: Winning on Three Fronts

By Greg Hammer, Soil Health Coalition

Let’s be honest, managing turfgrass isn’t always a walk in the park (pun intended!). It is a delicate balancing act, juggling aesthetics, functionality, budgets, time, and of course, the ever-changing weather. But what if I told you there is a secret to achieving a win-win-win turfgrass trifecta?

What is the turfgrass trifecta? It is a win for the homeowner (or turf manager), a win for the soil and environment, and a win for the hardworking crews who make it all happen. We know happy crews mean happy turf, and happy turf means happy clients.

Not everyone’s turfgrass goals are identical. Some folks aspire to a perfectly manicured, emerald-green monoculture (think Augusta National, but on a slightly smaller scale). Others prioritize functionality – a safe and durable surface for athletes or a lush carpet for backyard barbecues. And we can’t forget the budgetconscious, aiming for the most cost-effective maintenance plan.

Regardless of individual goals, we have a responsibility to incorporate sound environmental practices. As the experts, you’re in a prime position to coach your clients, guiding them towards management decisions that benefit the turf, the environment, and can reduce your operation costs. So, what are a couple strategies you can do to achieve this win-win-win?

Clippings: The Unsung Heroes of Turfgrass Management

Picture this: bags upon bags of grass clippings destined for the landfill. These green goldmines are packed with nutrients and organic matter, just waiting to be recycled back into the soil.

Clippings act as a natural mulch, reducing runoff, suppressing weeds, and adding organic matter, improving soil structure and water retention. As a result, there is less need for irrigation, fertilization, and the need to haul clippings away. A win-win-win!

Soil Tests: The Turfgrass Whisperers

Soil tests can be a secret weapon, the Rosetta Stone, of turfgrass management. Without a soil test, you’re just guessing – and guessing is rarely a winning strategy.

A soil test provides a snapshot of your soil’s current condition, revealing vital information like pH, nutrient levels, and organic matter content. This data-driven approach allows for precise fertilizer applications, preventing over-fertilization (and the resulting nutrient runoff that pollutes our waterways). Want to take it a step further? Consider using organic fertilizers like compost and manure to boost soil health and provide a slow release of nutrients. Another win-win-win!

These are just a couple of simple strategies to improve soil health, reduce costs, and protect the environment. But we want to hear from you! What are your go-to turfgrass management tips for achieving the trifecta? Share your wisdom by submitting your ideas to msketch2@vt.edu.