Turf & Surface Management Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of topdressing a natural grass athletic field?

Answer: To smooth the surface and improve soil profile

Topdressing smooths surface irregularities and gradually improves the root zone soil profile to enhance playability and drainage.

Which grass species is most commonly used on warm-season athletic fields in the southern United States?

Answer: Bermudagrass

Bermudagrass is the dominant warm-season turfgrass for athletic fields in the South due to its heat tolerance, durability, and rapid recovery.

What does the term 'thatch' refer to in turf management?

Answer: The intermingled layer of living and dead organic matter between soil and green vegetation

Thatch is the spongy layer of partially decomposed organic matter—stems, roots, and rhizomes—that accumulates between the soil surface and green shoots.

A field manager notices the soil pH is 5.4. What amendment should be applied to raise it toward the optimal 6.0–7.0 range?

Answer: Agricultural lime

Agricultural lime (calcium carbonate) is applied to raise soil pH and make nutrients more available to turfgrass.

What is the recommended mowing height range for bermudagrass on a game-quality athletic field?

Answer: 1.5–2.5 inches

Bermudagrass athletic fields are typically maintained at 1.5–2.5 inches to balance density, recovery, and playability.

Which nutrient deficiency causes yellowing between leaf veins (interveinal chlorosis) in turfgrass?

Answer: Iron

Iron deficiency causes interveinal chlorosis, where leaf veins remain green while tissue between them turns yellow.

How often should soil compaction testing (penetrometer readings) be conducted on high-use athletic fields?

Answer: Monthly during the playing season

Monthly penetrometer readings during the playing season help track compaction buildup so timely aerification can be scheduled.