For WA sports turf managers and park supervisors, the quest for pristine, active and passive areas is more than just a mission; it’s a regional challenge. Amid the unique soil profiles in this region, where sandy soils and hydrophobic barriers are common.
Before we look into the science, it’s important to recognise the distinct challenge faced by those responsible for sports fields and parks in Western Australia. The prevalent sandy soils and hydrophobic tendencies create a landscape where uneven moisture distribution, dry patches, and nutrient absorption issues are all too familiar. This is where wetting agents come to the rescue.
The science of wetting agents centres around overcoming the hydrophobic, water-repellent nature of the soil. In Western Australia, sandy soils are notorious for their resistance to water infiltration. Wetting agents contain surfactants, compounds adept at reducing water’s surface tension, breaking through this hydrophobic barrier.
Wetting agents, particularly crucial in sandy soil regions, lower the surface tension of water, making it behave as if it were “wetter.” Surfactants have hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repellent) ends, making them perfect for attracting water and disrupting the hydrophobic barriers in the soil.
When wetting agents are applied to active sports areas and passive parks, they play a pivotal role in achieving even water distribution within the soil profile. Ongoing wetting agent application helps with the management of dry spots and ensures uniform moisture dispersion. Enhanced water penetration allows grass roots to access water and nutrients effectively, even in these challenging soils.
Baileys have a range of liquid and granular products that can help you manage the challenging weather and soil conditions that affect Turf in Western Australia.
Wetting agents aren’t just about water distribution; they are instrumental in optimising nutrient uptake. Even moisture distribution ensures that fertilisers and soil amendments can be absorbed efficiently by the grass roots, promoting healthier, greener turf.
Wetting agents come in various formulations to address specific soil and turf needs. The most common types include:
Baileys have a range of liquid and granular products that can help you manage the challenging weather and soil conditions that affect Turf in Western Australia. The Baileys range of Grosorb and Seasorb products are all made locally with the background and technical understanding of our unique environment.
When Perth-based contractor Luke, owner of Silverstone Gardening and host of the Australian Lawn & Garden Podcast, invited Baileys Shannon White onto the show, the goal was simple: share practical fertiliser knowledge that can help turf managers achieve better results and build more profitable businesses.
A fantastic day of learning, collaboration, and practical demonstrations — bringing together industry experts to share real-world experience and innovative approaches to managing sports turf.
Baileys are thrilled to learn about the Urban Greening Grant Program, a collaborative effort between the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) and WALGA.