Drought Management
Problem |
Drought |
Host Grass Types |
All turf types |
Symptons |
Wilting and drought damage |
Background information
- During the summer, the water use rates of cool season turfgrasses will commonly exceed the rate which natural rainfall replenishes water back into the soil
- Once the soil moisture reserves become depleted, the turfgrass will begin to wilt
- A period of continual water stress that limits or prevents the growth of plants is termed drought. Once drought conditions develop, grasses will stop all growth and development and proceed into dormancy
Management strategy to reduce the risk of drought damage
- Keep the surface receptive to quick water infiltration and maintain a good soil structure and composition
- Monitor water quality
- Use wetting agents to avoid hydrophobic conditions prior to onset of drought
- Raise height of cut where possible
- Help turf regulate water uptake & losses
- Encourage the development of a good root system
- Maintain low salt levels in soils
- Use low-salt or coated fertilizers if possible to reduce the risk of further damage
- Aeration programme to encourage deep rooting
- Top dress with appropriate material to avoid layering and avoid irregular water movement
- Avoid topdressing during stress periods
- Use pedestrian operated instead of ride-on machinery
- Select drought resistant grass varieties
Suitable wetting agents for the reduction of drought problems are:
- H2Pro Maximise
- H2Pro Conserve Liquid
- Qualibra
Preventative Strategy (Guidance Only)
Curative Programme (Guidance Only)