Written by Mike Hamilton, CCA & President of Turf Dietitian Our jobs may depend on this puzzle, so how good are you at solving problems? As a superintendent, I found this exercise to be a fun way to start conversations around the complexities of plant health. What I now refer to as the Turf Dietitian… Read More »
cultural practices
Late Summer Lawn Management Tips
Written by Mike Hamilton, CCA & President of Turf Dietitian Most likely, it has been a stressful summer on your lawn due to the unusual weather patterns this year. If your lawn has come through this summer in good condition, you should declare yourself or your lawn care company an expert. Most properties will have… Read More »
MAGNESIUM “I can be your best friend or your worst enemy.”
Written by Mike Hamilton, CCA President of Turf Dietitian, Inc. Magnesium’s impact on plants: Magnesium is a secondary macronutrient essential for plant life, playing a significant role in soil structure and physical condition. Even minor magnesium deficiencies weaken a plant, making it susceptible to many ailments. However, a magnesium deficiency will cause significant stress that… Read More »
Nutrient of the Month – Sodium – “I’m Potassium’s Evil Twin”
Nutrient of the Month – Sodium – Even though sodium is an essential element, we rarely think of it as part of our nutritional programs. Sodium is typically that evil nutrient that quickly becomes destructive to plants and soil structure. Because of osmotic pressure, moderate levels of sodium can suck moisture and nutrients in or out of plants, shrink roots, and diminish many of metabolic functions of a healthy plant.
Organic Matter Management
Written by Mike Hamilton, CCA & President of Turf Dietitian Organic matter is the most essential of all soil components; organic matter is the most critical but, conversely, the most obstructive and misunderstood. Organic matter provides a reservoir for nutrients, microorganisms, carbohydrates, organic compounds, and water. However, if the organic matter becomes too dense, it… Read More »
The Key to Plant Life and Soil Health
Written by Mike Hamilton, CCA & President of Turf Dietitian Increasing Microbial Populations by Incorporating Organic Carbon Sources If you’re looking to increase your soil’s microbial activity, you must develop or maintain a cultural program that produces an optimal environment. Or at least one more favorable in terms of aeration, moisture, pH, and organic production… Read More »
