The Natural System

The challenge for designers and managers of natural turf playing surfaces is to optimise the compromise between achieving the playability characteristics demanded by the sport whilst creating an environment which promotes grass growth all year round.  This is achievable but necessarily involves the management of a complex interaction between factors such as:

• Soil type and associated physical and chemical characteristics
• Water movement through the soil
• Irrigation water requirements
• The decline in aeration status during the first three years following construction (roots need oxygen as well as water)
• Soil and air temperature
• Light levels within the stadium
• Ventilation in the vicinity of the turf

This already complex situation is further complicated by variables such as the degree of wear imposed on the turf and variations in weather conditions.

Figure 1 The complex interaction of factors affecting playability and grass growth.