Investigation of Soil Amendments for Use in Golf Course Putting Green Construction by Travis Shaddox
The dissertation by Travis Shaddox explores the impact of various soil amendments on the water-use efficiency (WUE) and nutrient leaching in golf course putting greens, specifically focusing on Tifdwarf bermudagrass. The research was conducted at the University of Florida and aimed to determine how different amendments, including organic and inorganic materials, affect turf quality, nutrient retention, and overall water management in sand-based root zones.
The study begins with an introduction to the importance of water efficiency in turf management, particularly under regulatory constraints that limit water usage. It highlights the role of soil amendments in enhancing moisture and nutrient availability. The literature review covers various types of soil amendments, including peats, calcined clays, zeolites, and diatomaceous earths, discussing their properties and effects on soil characteristics.
The methodology section details the experimental design, which included glasshouse studies and leaching experiments. The results indicate that iron humate significantly improved turf quality, yield, and WUE compared to other amendments. Calcined clays also showed beneficial effects but were less effective than iron humate. The study found that amendments incorporated into the root zone before turf establishment yielded better results than those applied after aerification.
Nutrient leaching studies revealed that surfactant-modified soil amendments (SMSAs) effectively reduced nitrogen and phosphorus leaching, with notable differences in retention capacities among the amendments. The findings suggest that while some amendments can enhance turf growth and reduce nutrient loss, the method of incorporation plays a crucial role in their effectiveness.
This dissertation is significant for turf management professionals, particularly in the golf industry, as it provides empirical evidence on the effectiveness of various soil amendments in improving turf quality and water-use efficiency. The research contributes to ongoing discussions about sustainable practices in turf management, especially in regions facing water scarcity. By demonstrating the potential of SMSAs to mitigate nutrient leaching, the study offers practical solutions for maintaining environmental quality while ensuring high standards of turf performance.
