Question 1

Do I need to use a moisture sensor to select my Soil Moisture setting?

Accepted Answer

Sensor data is not necessary. Using your field observations will work well.  However, sensor data can be used if desired.

Question 2

Why don't I see much change in recommended N when I change my Observed Soil Moisture?

Accepted Answer

This means that your organic matter levels are fairly low and/or forecasted temperatures are fairly cool so soil moisture has a less effect.

Question 3

I see a big change in the recommended N when I change Observed Soil Moisture, why is that?

Accepted Answer

This occurs when organic matter levels are high and/or forecasted temperatures are warm.

Using the Soil Moisture buttons will help bring growth under control faster than the original PN7 model was able to accomplish in these scenarios.

Question 4

I keep my greens as dry as possible without seeing wilt.  When would the "Very Low"  Soil Moisture button be necessary on Greens?

Accepted Answer

The Very Low Soil Moisture button may only seldom be used where soil moisture is tightly managed through an excellent irrigation system and handwatering team.

However, the Low or Very Low Soil Moisture button may commonly be used during dry weather where irrigation control is very precise.

On some intensively managed facilities this may true for Tees and Fairways as well.

Question 5

Should I consider forecasted weather in addition to current conditions when setting the Soil Moisture buttons?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can certainly impart your sense of the conditions that your course will experience during the coming spray window.

For example, if your fairways are not wet today but you see a low pressure system expected to result in wet soil during a good portion of your spray window, you can use the High or Very High Soil Moisture button.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to use a moisture sensor to select my Soil Moisture setting?

Why don't I see much change in recommended N when I change my Observed Soil Moisture?

I see a big change in the recommended N when I change Observed Soil Moisture, why is that?

I keep my greens as dry as possible without seeing wilt. When would the "Very Low" Soil Moisture button be necessary on Greens?

Should I consider forecasted weather in addition to current conditions when setting the Soil Moisture buttons?