STMA releases resource for warm-season sports fields

The Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) released a new educational resource on preparing warm-season sports fields for a successful spring season.

If a fall sports season is moving to spring, properly preparing your field in the fall will give turfgrass the best chance to be ready for play in the spring. Developing and implementing a plan to combat cooler weather conditions will not only help your natural grass fields survive but will also jump-start spring growth and result in overall healthier turfgrass throughout the year. By beginning winter preparation at the end of the summer and continuing it throughout the fall, turf managers will be on their way to managing an even better field next year. The success of your field is largely dependent on how your field overwinters.

Have a Plan

Be prepared. With fall sports limited or not permitted, take time to plan out a maintenance schedule, work on trouble spots and prepare the field for the winter and spring ahead. Additionally, be sure to have all equipment, seed and fertilizers on hand before they are needed.

Make sure all your tarps are in good condition and be ready to explain the consequences of playing on a saturated field to the coaches, administrators, parents and players. Survey fields frequently. Pay attention to potential problem areas and immediately address any situations.

To read the rest of STMA’s tips for Fall Field Preparation tips, visit here.