October 23, 2024
Professional confessional: turf management
What do you wish the general public understood about turf management?
A grassy yard might look simple to some, but keeping this complex ecosystem healthy, vibrant and manicured requires deep knowledge and dedication. Landscape Trades asked turf management professionals to describe their biggest challenges to help dispel the myths surrounding their specialty as they strive to maintain lawns, sports fields, golf courses, parks, boulevards and other turf-covered properties in our communities.
“I wish the general public knew that cultural practices like proper watering and mowing can make the biggest difference in the way a lawn looks. Yes, fertilizing and weed control is important, but a homeowner or turf manager plays a major role in the appearance and health of the lawn. Watering at the right time at the right amount and mowing high with a sharp mower blade are extremely important to the health and appearance of the lawn.” - CHRIS L.
“Fertilizing in the spring and winter is the best way to combat weeds.” - HOUSTON R.
“A healthy lawn is based on many factors, nothing complicated, that need to be addressed, e.g., soil health, seed selection appropriate to the situation, nutrients, mowing (or not) and any other environmental, cultural or bylaw factors that will affect your management decisions. Equally important is that this takes time; there is no quick fix.” - DAN C.
I wish the general public knew that…
“That weed management isn't just a spray. It's the entirety of inputs and efforts combined over time to build a thicker, healthier lawn, from the soil right up to the maintenance practices. I think many people including those in the industry undermine the importance of those efforts (from a sharp blade, to the frequency of mowing and the height of the cut, and the volume and frequency of watering cycles). Everything has an effect on the health of the lawn. When industry counterparts work together, everything grows healthier and works better!
Healthy lawns aren't just for aesthetics; they’re essential living systems that contribute to our urban ecosystem. Turfgrass captures carbon, provides a substantial cooling effect, reduces soil erosion, filters rainwater and traps dust and pollutants. It's a vital green space that enhances our environment, supports biodiversity and offers a resilient surface for recreation. Neglecting or removing lawns harms these benefits, making urban areas hotter, more polluted and less sustainable.”
Turf management can be a rewarding career because...
“It allows us to see the tangible results of our efforts in real time. There's immense satisfaction in knowing that the work we do contributes to cleaner air, cooler urban environments and healthier communities. We’re creating and maintaining spaces where people can connect with nature, play and relax, all while contributing to the greater environmental good. It's a career where passion meets purpose, and the rewards are as green as the grass we nurture.” - KYLE T.