Light and frequent irrigation: a necessity, but also a black layer magnet

Light, frequent irrigation sets are necessary when turf roots are short. Unfortunately, light and frequent irrigation sets also encourage black layer because most of the water stays at the top of the root zone — in the surface thatch/mat area. When this happens, a "seal" develops that prevents oxygen from reaching the roots, and that encourages anaerobic conditions and black layer.

To prevent the formation of this seal and the turf damage that follows it, schedule a heavy irrigation cycle…