July 15, 2006 6:58 am - Beating summer heat

The heat of summer is definitely upon us now. This is the time that most of us dread. Summer heat is usually met with root decline. One of the ways to get through the heat of the summer is through the generous use of potassium. As the policeman in the plant system potassium has many roles. Two roles among others that potassium plays is getting the nutrients that are being made during photosynthesis to the parts of the plant that need that nutrition. Another vital role potassium plays is in drought tolerance. It's times like right now where we are suffering from high heat and little rainfall that we need to make sure that there is enough potassium in the soil to make sure the turf can take it up. How much is enough? Roughly 4.5% of your cation exchange capacity will get you in the ball park. Factors such as the amount of sodium in your profile and the quality of your irrigation water may affect the concentration of potassium. Soil tests that give base saturation percentages and cation exchange capacities along with soil paste tests are an excellent place to start. Generous application of a granular in the spring is a good place to start. Beginning in the heat of the summer you may want to put down a slow release. The key is to make sure that you have enough potassium in your soils to begin with. On most of our soils tests, there is not enough potassium in the soils. Potassium can be very leachable. A good down pour can release much of your potassium so a good rule of thumb is to apply potassium after you have had a one inch rainfall. Remember, proper nutrition is the key to healthier plants.

Sincerely,

Craig Paskvan