September 2020 Pitch Diaries
Traditionally, September marks the beginning of autumn. A time when conditions can be more favourable for carrying out maintenance tasks such as seeding and turf recovery.
The temperatures can be more generous without the extreme heat and long dry spells (location dependent), which can cause issues through the height of summer, and there is typically more moisture around which really helps drive seed germination, establishment and growth.
The long term forecast for the month ahead currently looks favourable with a mixture of sun and showers. Average daytime temperatures in the late teens and average night-time temperatures in the low teens. Therefore, it should provide those who weren't able to get any renovation work carried out in August the opportunity to take advantage of favourable conditions in September. Ultimately, at this time of year, attention also starts to focus on autumn nutrition and integrated pest management (IPM) plans. With a focus on disease management and keeping surfaces in quality condition as environmental conditions (such as dew formation) become more favourable for disease outbreaks. Therefore, at this time of year, moisture and water management are key factors to build maintenance practices around.
In this month's diaries we discuss good seeding practices, plant growth regulators and maintenance operations as well as the usual nutrition, disease and pests advice.
Don't forget, you can also use our Pitchcare Forum, where members can ask for and offer advice on the whole range of sports turf surfaces issues.