Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
sandy soils. Magnesium deficiency is frequently associated with low
soil pH.
Sulphur
Sulphur deficiency is infrequent. Sandy soils are most likely to produce
sulphur deficiency, especially if low in organic matter.
Plants are seldom deficient in micronutrients such as copper, boron,
manganese, zinc and molybdenum. Iron is the only micronutrient in
which plants are frequently deficient, especially in alkaline (high-pH)
soils. Soil test procedures in which iron availability is determined are
usually reliable, but occasionally, for unknown reasons, such a test may
indicate serious iron deficiency in soil on which the turf shows no
symptoms. Likewise, the test may sometimes indicate iron to be sufficient
while the plants clearly show deficiency symptoms. The best way to
confirm iron shortage is to apply it to a small area and to observe how
the turf responds.
Micronutrients are seldom applied in turf-grass management. Al-
though they may be required under very unusual circumstances, in
general, their use should be avoided. Most micronutrients can cause
injury to the leaves and generally do not serve any useful purpose.
Applications of micronutrients should always be based on confirmed
observations of deficiency symptoms in the field, soil tests and tissue
test results. Soil pH is an important tool for managing micronutrients.
Exception for molybdenum, levels of plant-available forms of these elem-
ents decrease with the rise of pH.
Fertilization
Anyone who has ever grown a plant understands the importance of
fertilization. Application of some fertilizers makes plants grow faster,
but applying too much can harm or kill them. Different turf-grass species
have different nutrient requirements just as different levels of main-
tenance require different nutrient management. A single fertility pro-
gramme cannot be designed to benefit all
types of
turfs and all
management regimes.
Every fertility programme should start with a soil analysis and, if
possible, a leaf-tissue analysis. The governments of most countries
around the world provide these services for a relatively modest fee.
No one should consider saving money by not doing a soil test. The cost
is insignificant compared to the losses that can result from the lack
of adequate soil
information. A leaf-tissue test is also very helpful.
