Relate the differences between water holding capacity and rate of water infiltration of clay based soils and sandy soils to turf irrigation practices. Wilting, leaf rolling, discoloration, loss of turgor pressure and the persistence of footprints, soil color and core sampling, and instruments such as tensionmeters, soil moisture, resistance and electrical conductivity probes. Water is gained through natural precipitation and supplemental irrigation. To apply water in a uniform way at the proper rate and timing. Wind, sprinkler head distribution, nozzle pressure, rotation and type of nozzle, age of system, water quality, and height of nozzles.
Requirements vary with species, soil type, environment, and cultural practices.
Typically, turfgrass requires 1-1.5 inches of water per week. The early morning hours are the recommended time to water. Night watering can increase disease problems and day watering can increase costs due to excessive evaporation. The infiltration rate is the rate at which the water percolates and drains through the soil. The precipitation rate should not exceed the infiltration rate.