Water and Nutritional Management of Turfgrass Under Summer Thermal Stress

Strategic Water Management for Summer Turfgrass

Summer in the Southern Cone, with its intense heatwaves and drought periods, presents a significant challenge for maintaining healthy and aesthetically pleasing turfgrass. Far from being a mere decorative element, turfgrass fulfills important ecological functions, contributing to soil thermal regulation and carbon dioxide absorption. Understanding the physiological processes of grasses and applying appropriate agronomic practices are fundamental to preserving their vigor during the year’s most demanding season.

Efficient irrigation management is the cornerstone of summer turfgrass care. During warm months, evapotranspiration increases significantly, demanding precise water replenishment. Deep, less frequent watering is recommended over shallow, constant watering. This stimulates the development of a deeper, more robust root system, which confers greater resistance to water stress. The optimal time for water application is early morning, minimizing evaporative loss and reducing the proliferation of fungal diseases that thrive in damp overnight conditions. The use of rain gauges or soil moisture sensors allows for precise quantification of water needs, preventing both under-watering and over-watering, both of which are detrimental to turfgrass health. In Argentina, where water resources can be limited in some regions, optimizing irrigation not only benefits the turfgrass but also contributes to environmental sustainability. For a correct evaluation, detailed information on efficient irrigation systems can be found on specialized platforms such as Infojardín.

Nutritional Optimization and Soil Health in Summer

The soil is the vital substrate for turfgrass, and its health is directly proportional to the vitality of the grasses. During summer, turfgrass can experience nutritional stress due to rapid growth and nutrient leaching. Balanced fertilization is crucial, favoring slow-release formulations that provide a constant supply of nutrients without growth spurts that deplete the plant’s reserves. A prior soil analysis is advisable to determine specific deficiencies and adjust the fertilizer composition, which generally includes nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Potassium, in particular, enhances resistance to water and thermal stress. Incorporating organic matter through practices like top-dressing or mulching (leaving finely shredded grass clippings on the surface) enriches the soil, improves its structure, and enhances its water-holding capacity. Mulching also helps moderate soil temperature and suppress weed growth. Correct fertilizer application is fundamental; an excess can burn the turf, while a deficiency weakens it. For fertilization guides, specialized publications such as those found on La Huertina de Toni can be referenced.

The mowing height of turfgrass is a determining factor in its ability to withstand heat and drought. During summer, it is recommended to raise the mowing height, allowing longer leaves to shade the soil, which reduces evaporation and protects the roots from excessive heat. A mowing height of 5 to 7 centimeters is generally suitable for most grass species used in Argentina. Mowing frequency should be adjusted to the growth rate, avoiding removing more than one-third of the leaf blade height in each pass to avoid stressing the plant. Mower blades should always be sharp; a clean cut minimizes damage to the plant and prevents pathogen entry. Weed control in summer is another critical aspect. Weeds compete for water, nutrients, and sunlight, exacerbating turf stress. Integrated management strategies include manual removal of isolated weeds, application of selective herbicides (if strictly necessary and following manufacturer’s instructions), and, fundamentally, maintaining dense, vigorous turf that naturally suppresses the growth of unwanted species. Mulching with grass clippings also contributes to weed suppression. To identify common weeds and their control methods, resources like Picarona offer practical information.

Impact of Mowing Height and Weed Control

Summer turfgrass care is not a trivial task but an investment in the health and aesthetics of our environment. Adopting an approach based on understanding plant needs and environmental conditions allows us to transform a seasonal challenge into an opportunity to foster a more resilient ecosystem. Irrigation planning, adequate nutrition, and mindful mowing maintenance are pillars that ensure turfgrass vitality, even under the most intense sun. By diligently applying these practices with knowledge, we contribute to the creation of green spaces that not only beautify but also offer a refuge of coolness and biodiversity in urban and rural landscapes.