The Future of Smart Turf Care

The quiet revolution in turf management is here, we are moving from aggressive, chemical-dependent turf maintenance programs to integrated management programs that incorporate sustainability, precision and technology. A greener approach, lower costs and improved performance is the future of the turf industry. To future proof a career, in an era of transformation, professional turf managers must merge cutting-edge science with digital technology. This applies to the management of all turf facilities i.e.  domestic or commercial applications, in public parks and for sports turf.

The use of sustainable techniques to enhance turf health and resilience, is about using a smarter approach. Here are some examples.  

Organic inputs mean using organic fertilisers (seaweed extracts, compost teas etc.) to enhance soil microbial activity which creates a healthier environment that is less reliant on synthetic pesticides and herbicides.

Introducing drought resistant species is another good move towards sustainability. The selection of turfgrass species, or native species (which also need less mowing and less water) is critical in drought prone areas.

Today fertilisers are known as 4th generation and they are known as stimuli responsive, targeted fertilisers, releasing nutrients only under certain condition e.g. moisture or pH.  Previously fertilisers 1st-3rd generation has been conventional, slow release and coated fertilisers with customised patterned release respectively. 

Nano-carriers (e.g. polymers, liposomes, or carbon nanotubes) enable the transportation of nutrients to where is it most needed. This is often directly to foliage rather than to the soil.

This transportation method means less fertiliser is needed (using thousands of times less when compared to urea) thereby significantly reducing damage to local eco-systems through agricultural run-off.  Traditional fertilisers are easily released to the environment i.e. leached to groundwater and lost as gas to the atmosphere. Nano-fertilisers reduces this loss by 90-95%.

Data-driven turf care

Calendar-based turf care is replaced by data-driven, site specific, ‘real-time’ analytics allowing the treatment of each square metre of turf as a unique ecosystem. Using real-time data optimises inputs and does away with the use of indiscriminate use of ‘just in case’ treatments.

IoT Sensors

The use of soil sensors to monitor wear and tear, temperature and moisture levels that instruct automated irrigation systems to water as needed rather than indiscriminately, significantly reducing water wastage.

Robotics

The use of autonomous robotic mowers that provide lightweight, frequent cuts – this not only improves turf density it also reduces fuel consumption.

Drones and Artificial Intelligence

Drones and AI smart imaging software find turf problems such as pests and nutrient gaps, up to two weeks earlier than are visible to the human eye, allowing for faster, targeted responses and treatments. It also means only areas that need it are treated.

The Future of Turf Education

This fast-moving industry is driving a surge in demand for turf management professionals who have high tech-skills such as AI diagnostics, a sound knowledge of sustainable turf science and soil biology.

This is not a ‘set and forget’ industry. In order to stay ahead and future proof your abilities and career in turf management as a greenkeeper, landscape contractor, or superintendent you need continuous, proactive learning.

This fast-moving industry is driving a surge in demand for turf management professionals who have high tech-skills such as AI diagnostics, a sound knowledge of sustainable turf science and soil biology.

This is not a ‘set and forget’ industry. In order to stay ahead and future proof your abilities and career in turf management as a greenkeeper, landscape contractor, or superintendent you need continuous, proactive learning.