Managing moisture effectively can help you maintain elite playing conditions throughout the summer, especially during periods of stress. Advanced Turf Solutions has a comprehensive lineup of soil surfactants (also called wetting agents) to fit a range of turf and soil needs.

Getting the most out of these tools comes down to timing, consistency, and smart tank-mixing. Make sure your soil surfactants are established in the soil profile before Mother Nature shuts off the rain. Waiting until turf starts showing stress means you’re already behind. Apply early and stay consistent to prevent products from ‘running out of steam.’ Remember that recovery takes more time and resources than prevention.

Liquid Soil Surfactant Options

There are quite a few options available, including:

  • BioWet, which enhances penetration and is excellent for alleviating bicarbonates that tie up nutrients and place stress on soil biology.
  • Dispatch, which moves water efficiently into the soil, improving distribution and reaching deeper root zones. It has low use rates with flexible usage tactics.  
  • Matador and Command, which both offer exceptional hydration and infiltration. They can be used together or separately, depending on your goals and the weather forecast. Matador has been proven through research to rid your soil particles of residue, returning them to a form that allows them to retain moisture on their own.
  • Zipline, which improves water infiltration and uniform distribution in the soil, enhancing turf resilience while increasing nutrient availability and uptake for healthier, more vigorous growth.

Different products will have different use cases. If you need to increase water movement off the surface and through the soil profile, Aqueous, Command, and/or Dispatch are the best tools for the job. If you need to move water through the profile while retaining moisture, BioWet, Infiltrip, Percolate, and Zipline are standout options. If you’re interested in retaining water within the soil profile, Matador is your best bet. Longevity is also an important consideration. If you want a soil surfactant that stays active for an extended time, use Kastella or Sixteen90.

Granular Soil Surfactant Solutions

Granular soil surfactants are also an option. They’re great for use on high-traffic areas, bunker banks, localized dry spots, divot mix, and floral plantings. I predominantly recommend two products: Aqueduct Flex Granular and Vivax 10G. They both deliver month-long controlled moisture support and are very versatile. The more you get comfortable with them, the more uses you will find for them.

Soil Sprays for Peak Efficiency

To maximize your soil’s potential and help your microflora flourish, use the following tank-mix partners with your soil surfactant, immediately followed by an irrigation cycle:  

  • Foliar-Pak Colonise Bio at three fluid ounces per thousand square feet
  • Armament P or Armament K at three fluid ounces per thousand square feet
  • Your favorite ATS-supplied Strobi or DMI to the tank

This complete soil health mix supports peak microbial activity, moisture retention, nutrient availability to the plant, and paves the way for your root system to thrive. This makes the rest of your month easier while helping your turf stand up to heat and stress.

No matter which product you use, consistency is critical. Stay on schedule and treat preventatively. Consider working soil surfactants into your monthly fertility plan to keep moisture management seamless and stress-free.

A proactive soil surfactant program gives your turf the upper hand during tough weather. It also helps you better manage the multiple microclimates you have on your property. Reach out to your Advanced Turf Solutions rep to build a custom plan that meets your course’s specific needs.