ASSOCIATION UPDATES
From Turf Australia Quick Cuts January 2025 edition— Hort Innovation Project TU08034: Quantifying Surfactant Interaction Effects on Soil Moisture and Turf Quality Water conservation is a complex issue, such that savings in urban water use on turfed areas can be achieved through a range of different strategies. At the plant level, options include growing grasses that use (transpire) less water, or ones that are deeper rooted and therefore able to tap greater supplies of soil water than other grasses.
At the soil level, better use can be made of available water by maximizing infiltration, minimizing runoff, and helping to retain water within the soil profile, thereby making it more available to the plants growing there. Te physical properties of the soil needed for efficient water capture, storage, and use are compromised by the condition of soil water repellency at low moisture contents.
Tis condition occurs in many horticultural and agricultural soils and is caused by the production of complex organic acids during organic matter decomposition. Tese wax-like substances form a coating over the soil particles, such that the ability of water to adhere to these particles (and hence move through the soil) is then impeded.
If infiltration is impeded, water and other applied chemicals (pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers) will either sit on the soil surface or run off to a non-target area. Tis can lead to lower-than-expected turf quality and may potentially harm the surrounding environment including waterways.
To review the project report, as issued by Rachel Poulter Department of Employment, Economic Development & Innovation, go to the link that follows.
https://mcusercontent.com/2de5aa2ad0b9f3625eeb3d68e/ files/77a73e22-a290-42e5-fb14-f6f467aee9fc/TU08034.pdf
TGA Announces Landmark Decision to Ban the Use of Plastic Netting in Turfgrass Production In a January 6, 2025, press release, the Turfgrass Growers Association (TGA), the leading body representing the UK turfgrass industry, announced that, following extensive member engagement and feedback, it has taken a bold and
progressive step towards environmental sustainability by banning the use of plastic netting in turf production by its members. Tis decision, supported overwhelmingly by members in a recent vote, with 17 voting in favor of the ban and just 1 against, will take effect from October 31, 2026.
Te decision to ban plastic netting reflects the TGA’s commitment to sustainable practices. From October 31, 2026, grower members must cease using plastic netting to grow turf, in order to retain their membership of the association during the 2026/27 subscription year and beyond.
Richard Owens, Chair of the TGA, commented: "Tis is a defining moment, and the decision reflects the growing consensus among our members and the wider industry about the urgent need to prioritize sustainability. By committing to eliminate plastic netting, the TGA is leading the way towards a more environmentally responsible future for turf production in the UK."
Te press release further stated that the TGA is committed to supporting its members during the transition period by providing guidance, resources, and collaborative opportunities to explore and implement alternative practices. Tis initiative represents a significant milestone for the turfgrass industry, aligning with broader environmental goals across the agricultural and horticultural sectors. Te TGA’s decision sets an important precedent for adopting sustainable practices in industries that impact the environment.
TPI Turf News March/April 2025
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