The foundation of good turf performance is the soil in which the turf grows. The principle soil characteristics that impact on turf health are;
- Soil Texture
- Soil Structure
- Soil Infiltration Rate
- Soil Compaction
- Biological Activity
- Soil Nutrient Status
The ‘IPOS Turf and Soil Assessment Model’ uses sound field assessment and measurements combined with laboratory analysis to determine and monitor turf health and soil condition. IPOS partners with highly skilled agronomists to do soil and water testing and interpretation. Ongoing testing and monitoring provides information from which sound turf maintenance and renovation practices can be developed aimed at improving soil conditions, turf health and density.
Assessment tests and methods include;
| Assessment Test | Assessment Method | No of Test per Sports Ground |
| Turf health & quality | IPOS assessment / TQVS standard | 1 assessment across the sports ground |
| Soil texture & structure | Hand bolus method – ribbon test | 5 |
| Root zone depth and density | Split tube sampler | 5 |
| Soil profile | Split tube sampler to 300mm | 5 |
| Soil infiltration rate / drainage | Ring infiltrometer | 5 |
| Soil moisture content | Theta-probe moisture sensor | 15 |
| Soil strength & compaction | Hydraulic penetrometer | 15 |
| Surface hardness | Clegg impact hammer | 15 |
| Soil chemistry and nutrient analysis | Laboratory analysis | 15 soil samples mixed to make 1 laboratory sample |
Outcome:
The report provides a fertiliser and turf maintenance programs developed from assessment results which are specific to each sports ground aimed at improving nutrient balance, soil conditions, turf health and density.
