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Q & A WITH PAMELA SHERRATT
Soil Testing and Monitoring
I am looking after a new sports field . Should I have the soil tested ?
Yes . Turfgrass quality depends on the soil in which it grows . Whether your field is on native soil or sand-based , understanding its composition is critical for field health and longevity . This understanding can be achieved through two main types of soil tests : chemical and physical .
Chemical testing analyzes soil nutrients , cation exchange capacity ( CEC ) and pH levels . These tests typically measure phosphorus ( P ), potassium ( K ), magnesium ( Mg ), calcium ( Ca ), sulfur ( S ), micronutrients and pH . However , nitrogen is usually not tested because it exists in various forms in the soil , and its levels fluctuate . Although soil nitrate can be tested , the results provide only a snapshot and do not offer season-long insights into nitrogen availability .
For new or unfamiliar fields , conducting soil tests is strongly recommended . On native soil fields , testing every three to five years is generally sufficient , especially if there are prior test records , no existing problems , and the field follows a strong nutrient program . These fields have a relatively high CEC , which buffers against rapid nutrient changes . Conversely , sand-based fields require annual chemical testing due to their lower CEC , which makes them more susceptible to nutrient shifts . Supplementing these tests with leaf tissue analysis provides more accurate insights into nitrogen usage .
Consistency is key when soil sampling . Samples should always be taken at the same time of year from the same depth ( typically 4 to 6 inches ). To collect a sample , follow a zigzag pattern across the field , remove plant material and thatch from the top , and mix the soil to create a composite sample . Always adhere to the lab ’ s specific instructions for submitting samples . For regional testing recommendations , contact your local state Extension office . It ’ s crucial to use a turfgrassspecific lab rather than a general agricultural lab since nutrient sufficiency ranges differ for turfgrass . Plan soil tests a couple of months after the last fertilizer application and well before the new season to allow time for necessary amendments — such as lime — to take effect .
Physical testing evaluates properties such as bulk density , percolation , porosity and particle size distribution . This information is particularly relevant for sports fields , such as baseball and softball infields , where particle size distribution affects performance .
In addition to formal testing , field managers can monitor soil conditions through vegetation analysis and other tools . Weeds , for example , often indicate specific soil issues . Prostrate knotweed suggests soil compaction , nutsedge thrives in wet conditions , and clover signals low nitrogen availability . These visual indicators can guide corrective measures .
Soil thermometers are another valuable tool for sports field managers . Monitoring soil temperature helps predict weed germination and emergence , enabling better-timed herbicide applications . For example , crabgrass typically emerges when soil temperatures at a 0-2 inch depth remain above 55 degrees Fahrenheit for five to seven days . Online tools such as Michigan State University ’ s growing degree day tracker ( https :// gddtracker . msu . edu /) can supplement field monitoring .
Regular soil chemical testing helps you build a sound fertilizer program and maintain soil health , while physical testing supports soil amendment planning and tracks improvements over time . Observing weeds and monitoring soil temperatures provide additional insights , enabling sports field managers to make informed decisions about pesticide applications and other management techniques . A combination of reliable lab testing , consistent sampling practices and field monitoring ensures optimal turfgrass health and performance . SFM
Pamela Sherratt Sports turf extension specialist The Ohio State University
Questions ? Send them to Pamela Sherratt at 202D Kottman Hall , 2001 Coffey Road , Columbus , OH 43210 or sherratt . 1 @ osu . edu
Or send your question to Dr . Grady Miller , North Carolina State University , Box 7620 , Raleigh , NC 27695-7620 , or grady _ miller @ ncsu . edu
50 SportsField Management | February 2025 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com