Product Manual

Page 4
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Testing on irrigated areas
Another way to insure a proper infiltration reading on irrigated areas is to use this instrument
approximately one hour after irrigation. A visual indication of soil moisture should also be noted by
using a Soil Profile Sampler. When using this method, be sure no rainfall has occurred within 48
hours of the test to remove this variable.
Correlating your readings
If the results from your Turf-Tec Infiltration Rings show that the soil readings are one inch of water
absorbed per hour, this should be recorded. This reading should not be used as a conclusive result
for all areas because each area tested most likely will have different variables, like vegetative cover,
soil organic matter content, soil physical properties, compaction, soil texture and other factors.
These variables all impact infiltration rate.
Each infiltration reading should be duly recorded, so comparisons can be made periodically. You
will probably find wide differences in infiltration rates from area to area, especially when testing newly
constructed areas or areas where the soil has been disturbed, compared to areas where the soil
has remained unchanged. The best way to ensure infiltration results will be consistent is to record
the infiltration rate on each area so that you can compare any changes. Use this standard for each
particular area only.
Monitoring Golf Greens
If readings on the Turf-Tec Infiltration Rings are less than one inch per hour, the area is considered
to be in very critical range. When the infiltration rate drops 10% or more, check your topdressing
and management practices. Topdressing can sometimes drastically change infiltration rates,
especially if even a slight change in the mixture occurs.
When infiltration decreases are detected, the formations of layers in the soil profile are beginning.
However, major problem can be avoided if layers are diagnosed with the Turf-Tec Infiltration Rings
and can be corrected with aerification and proper topdressing.
Putting your readings to use - Turfgrass Areas
The results of your Infiltration rate readings can then be used to regulate the amount of water applied
from each sprinkler zone. Irrigation can then be adjusted to apply only the amount of water that
should be applied per hour.
To check irrigation rates, Turf-Tec precipitation / uniformity gauges can be purchased from Turf-Tec
International and placed in the soil (spaced every 1 1/2 to 3 feet between two sprinkler heads). The
irrigation clock should be set for a 15 minute cycle and the amount of water in each rain gauge
should be recorded. This will give you the actual amount of water applied.
Applying only the amount of water that the soil will absorb saves water lost by surface runoff and
reduces fertilizer loss. This will help prevent waterlogged soils, reducing oxygen levels in the soil.
Excessive surface water will also reduce root systems and can also contribute to increased disease
problems. Wet soils can become compacted more easily and, in severe cases, harmful anaerobic
conditions can be created.