Question and Challenge

Within groundskeeping there are many variables which can impact on deciding what might provide the best outcome for a particular surface at a particular moment in time. Soil moisture, temperature, light quality and quantity, desired performance standards, soil type, geographic location, sward content, root system, soil ecology, the influence of materials on soil pH, prior activities undertaken, available resources, available budgets, new technology and materials, time of year, what is fit for purpose for the immediate requirement, event prioritisation, the impact potential activities might have on other considerations (e.g. stakeholders, sustainability, the local environment, etc.), knowledge and skills of operatives, managers, sales and supplier personnel, recent research to suggest a variance in practices, and many more variables to consider.

For a groundskeeper to get the most of what they have there is a need to continually question and challenge working practices, materials applications, probable outcomes from inputs, benefits, limitations and disadvantages of what is being carried out or planned to confirm to themselves if the proposed activity or course of action is the best for their need.

Often materials may be applied or maintenance carried out that sees minimal incremental, and objective, benefit, but the work was typically carried out ‘because it was always done that way', or ‘the xyz club saw good results from it (even though this xyz club had a different soil type, had a much larger budget and resources, had a depth of skills and knowledge to get the most from the work, had a surface with vastly different performance standards, etc.), or ‘the sales person / literature said it worked well', etc.

Significant improvements in materials technology and machinery / equipment continues to take place, however, the general principles of soil and grass science hasn't changed over the years, but rather a change in nuance of attempting to tweak inputs and practices to get the most out of a surface.

Where distinct and measurable outcomes can be achieved from activities then clearly these would most likely be adopted, however, where the outcome is typically just visually short-term (such as a nice coloured football pitch) yet with no measurable benefit on of the impact on root development, sward wearability, etc. or for example of the efficiency of maintenance activities, then the variables which are being considered should be questioned and challenged. Investigate and evaluate if the variable being considered is worth the return from the time, effort and costs involved. If it is clearly beneficial, being cost-effective and efficient by being carried out then go ahead, otherwise question why you would be considering it.