Comparison of the USGA and Airfield Sand Systems for Sports Turf Construction

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to compare the Airfield system with a USGA system for soil factors that affect ‘Tifsport’ bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L. × C. transvaalensis Burtt-Davy) growth and to determine if the drainage in these systems was sufficient to maintain consistent gravimetric water content throughout the system regardless of relative elevation along a 2% slope. Canopy temperature and root and soil properties were evaluated monthly from May to October in 2003 and 2004. The two systems did not differ in soil temperature, canopy temperature, soil gravimetric water content, and root density in the 7.7- to 15.2-cm soil layer but the USGA system had higher root density in the 0.0- to 7.6-cm soil layer. Both systems retained more water and drained more poorly as elevation decreased from high to middle to low along a 2% slope. Root density was significantly greater at the lowest elevation compared with the middle elevation and significantly greater in the middle elevation compared with the highest elevation. The composite results suggested that the Airfield system was not substantially different from the USGA system.