Today is turf 101! Back to school! Some of you are going to want to skip this, some are going to wish this is longer, all of you will find it helpful, and that’s nutritional basics for our beloved grasses, what they do and why they are important.

Every nutrient we give the grass has a role to play. Whether it be big or small, they're all required in different amounts and in different times of the year. For each element we will give a short explanation as to why they are important.

This is where we get the phrase/term “N-P-K” from. These are the 3 most important nutrients in turf health.  These are known as the Macronutrients.

 

NITROGEN – (N)
Is a component that makes up nucleic, amino acids, proteins, chlorophyll and co-enzymes.  It is responsible for cell division, shoot and root growth, density, leaf colour, disease resistance, tolerance to stresses and recovery.

 

PHOSPHOROUS – (P)
Also, a component of nucleic acids, cellular membranes, adenosine triphosphate, and several coenzymes, which are responsible for seedling development, plant maturation and root growth.

 

POTASSIUM – (K)
Activates enzymes used in protein, sugars and starch synthesis.  Its crucial in maintaining and producing distention or rigidity of plant cells by increasing the pressure of the cells contents against the cell walls.  This improves the drought tolerance, extreme temperature hardiness and disease resistance.

 

The Next few elements we will look at are known as the Micro nutrients. These are the ones that are still required, just in less quantities than the N, P and K. 

 

CALCIUM – (Ca)
Calcium is needed in the outer layer of the plant cell wall; it needs to be thought of as the “cement” that holds the cells together. It is extremely important in membrane function and cell division.  Signs deficiencies include poor root and shoot development.

 

MAGNESIUM – (Mg)
Activates many enzymes, very important components of chlorophyll, common Magnesium deficiency symptoms include foliar chlorosis or yellowing.

 

SULPHUR – (S)
Deficiencies also include chlorosis or yellowing, Sulphur is required in certain amino acids, proteins, membranes and coenzymes.

 

IRON – (Fe)
Important in the formation of chlorophyll.  It’s also important in photosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism.  Symptoms of Iron deficiencies exist with chlorosis or yellowing of young or developing leaves.

There is some debate as to whether or not Iron belongs in this category, for me, its a yes, but it mainly comes down to personal choice. As it plays a large role in the colour of the turf. 

The last group of elements are called the Trace elements. This is due to the fact they are needed in such low quantities that it is barely negligible. For example; the understanding is grass uses about 400 times the amount of nitrogen as it does the most used micronutrient. The micronutrients are; 

 

MANGANESE – (Mn)
Its required in the chloroplast membranes for the chlorophyll, it functions as an enzyme activator.  Plus, it can assist in the resistance of some diseases.

 

ZINC – (Zn)
Involved in chlorophyll and amino acid synthesis, plus its important in the synthesis of the growth hormone indoleacetic acid influencing internode elongation.

 

BORON – (B)
Boron is important with the synthesis of DNA and cell expansion and the translocation of sugars.

 

COPPER – (Cu)
Essential for photosynthesis, plant respiration, metabolism of carbohydrates and a component of certain enzymes for synthesis.

 

MOLYBDENUM – (Mo)
It’s part of two enzymes that produce nitrite from nitrate in plants before becoming ammonia, so it can be synthesised.

 

CHLORINE – (Cl)
In very minute levels plays a part in photosynthesis.

The size of a “greens grade” fertiliser such as 2spec Refine or Maintain.

 

The answer is: absolutely everything! 

Because we are so excited about it, and its the right time of year, we are continuing our deal on the Firefighter Reno Bundle. (click on the picture below)

For the Addicts keeping up with our warm season free lawn plans, were approaching Kelpro, Fusion and Phosfighter application.

 

For the Addicts keeping up with our Cool season free lawn plans, were approaching Refine and for those who use it Primo Maxx applications. Be sure to check the GDD calculator to ensure you are applying Primo Maxx at the appropriate time.