Product Manual

Page 5 - Mascaro Profile Sampler Instructions
Copyright 2005 - www.turf-tec.com
Grubs, Mole Crickets -Look for grubs and
cutworm activity. Mole crickets also can be
found in the thatch layer in southern turf. If
present, sample other areas to determine if
control measures should be taken.
Algae, Black Layer, Slim Mold -
Algae, black layer, and slime molds often can be
observed growing in the mat layer, on the soil
surface, and in the soil profile. Their growth
usually is encouraged by soil acidity and excess
soil moisture. These problems can be controlled
by raising the pH with lime, and by aerifying and
reducing water use.
Undissolved Nutrients - Undissolved nutrients
sometimes can be found trapped in the thatch
and mat layers, which act as a filter that can slow
down or stop the downward movement of slow-
release materials such as lime, potash, and other
nutrients. Aerification and removal of excess
thatch are important objectives of every turf
management program.
Soil Texture-Next; study the texture of the soil
in the profile. This can be accomplished
mechanically, with sieves, or visually. Make a
rough estimate of the percentage of sand, silt and
lay, and record this information. A small
microscope placed right on the sample will
magnify the different particles. Many times we
find that the texture is ideal, but the blending and
mixing of the components produces pockets of
only one of the ingredients. Any concentration of
one of the soil components can create problems
with respect to water movement and root
development in the profile.
Soil Structure - Soil structure indicates how the
particles of sand, silt, and clay are held together
in clusters in a soil profile. A soil in good tilth
will have 50 percent solids, 25 percent space for
water, and 25 percent space for air Soil structure
is created by manipulating the soil, using
methods such as hollow tining, spoon
Aerification, and through freezing and thawing.
Soil structure often is destroyed through a
combination of rainfall or irrigation and heavy
traffic, including maintenance equipment and
foot traffic. Excess water provides the lubricant
for soil particles to slide together, quickly
forming a solid, compact mass. Due to their
minimal soil content, today’s high-sand content
greens have little soil structure.
Soil Compaction, Bulk Density - Soil
compaction or zones of high bulk density can be
detected in an undisturbed soil profile. The zone
or zones of compaction often can be found in a
layer near the top of the profile, due to heavy
traffic. They also may be found two or three
inches down in the profile, due to the
Soil drainage can be altered
by manipulating the soil
through hollow-tine
Aerification, and backfilling
with a desirable topdressing
mixture.