Building a Foundation with Soil Testing

When I first got into the green industry, my former superintendent always said something that has stuck with me over the years. He stated, “Without a solid foundation, you’ll have trouble creating anything of value.” This quote resonates in all facets of life including our industry. One of the easiest things we can do to understand what’s going on in our yard is a soil sample. The soil sample tells us the soil pH, CEC (cation exchange capacity), organic matter, and other components in the soil. Once we have this information, we can use it as a management tool to make sound decisions about our soil fertility program and to develop a comprehensive agronomic plan specific to each property. A sound agronomic plan helps us promote a healthier turfgrass, which aids in controlling weeds and fungus.

Another benefit of a soil sample is the environmental factor. The soil test will yield results and guidelines to help ensure proper rates are applied. The better the turfgrass can use the nutrients applied, the less runoff and leaching will occur.

To create value and to maximize the return on investment of fertilizer, it is important to apply the correct rates and the correct combination of fertilizer. Advanced Turf Solutions can serve all of your soil testing needs. For a comprehensive soil test, we offer Foliar-Pak’s Soil Solver analysis and unique application plan. Contact your local Advanced Turf representative to aid you in bringing value to your customer.

Nate Rumble
Sales Representative