In the context of sports turf, topdressing is the act of applying a thin layer of material over your field to enhance playing conditions. Let’s discuss a few commonly asked questions about topdressing.
What materials are commonly used?
Most of the time, sand is the sole material of choice. There are situations where soil or peat moss can be used, but the goals of using those materials differ from those of sand. The primary goal of using sand is to improve soil structure, drainage, and the playing surface. When using peat moss and soil, the goal is to enhance their nutrient-holding capabilities, among other benefits.
When should topdressing occur?
The turf should be actively growing for the best results. When the turf is actively growing, the plant is standing upright, allowing the sand to filter down through the canopy and settle around the crown. Topdressing is also a common practice after aeration. The sand will filter into the aeration holes and help improve soil structure and drainage. In both situations, it helps to use a metal screen drag over the topdressed area to help knock the sand down through the canopy.
How much sand should be used?
To answer this question, you need to consider why you’re topdressing. If the goal is to gradually change the soil structure over time and improve drainage, then usually around 1/8” works best. Generally speaking, 23 to 25 tons (one truckload) of sand spread evenly over a two-acre field provides a thin layer of sand. Alternatively, sand can be used to smooth out a field. When doing this, 120 to 125 tons (five truckloads) of sand can be spread and then graded over the field. This will effectively smooth out the surface, and the turf will grow through the layer of sand. Once the grow-in period is over (usually a few weeks), the field will be much smoother. Use a grader box attachment on your equipment to deposit sand in low areas and remove sand from high areas.
What type of sand should be used?
The most important characteristic for topdressing is particle size. A sand with a medium particle size will be most effective at improving soil structure for drainage. A fine particle size can lead to layering issues in the soil, while a large particle size can tend to stay on the soil surface. Once you’ve selected a sand, ensure it is properly screened. The last thing a turf manager wants to do is inadvertently add rocks to the field.
Is it necessary to topdress?
In reality, the answer to this question is no. It is not necessary to topdress athletic fields. Does topdressing help with turf growth and field playability? Yes, but it’s not imperative that a field be topdressed every year. Topdressing is one of the most expensive and labor-intensive practices that can be done on a field. With today’s shipping costs, a load of sand can be quite taxing on budgets. Then, once the sand is on site, large machinery is needed to apply the sand quickly and efficiently.
The demand for safe, aesthetically pleasing turf is higher than ever. Additionally, field use in organized sports is extremely high. As turf managers, we must produce fields that can meet these demands. Fields must be able to recover from the high use while also draining at a high rate to minimize rainouts. There is no doubt that turf and soil structure respond positively to the addition of sand. Hopefully, the above factors will assist you in your next application.
