Why Should You Be Checking Your Soil Temperature Regularly?

Regularly checking your soil temperature can make a significant difference in the success of your lawn care efforts particularly when seeding and applying fertilisers. In this blog post we'll explore why you should be monitoring your soil temperature and how it can benefit your grass.

1. Optimal Seed Germination

One of the primary benefits of monitoring soil temperature is ensuring optimal seed germination. Different types of grass seeds have specific temperature requirements for germination. When you know the current soil temperature you can time your seeding activities correctly. Most UK grass types thrive when soil temperatures are between 10°C and 18°C. By monitoring the soil temperature you can avoid seeding too early or too late in the season increasing the chances of successful germination.

 

2. Efficient Fertiliser Application

Soil temperature also plays a critical role in nutrient uptake by your grass. When the soil is too cold microbial activity slows down and the grass's ability to absorb essential nutrients is compromised. Conversely, excessively high soil temperatures can lead to nutrient leaching and reduced fertiliser efficiency. Regularly checking soil temperature allows you to apply fertilisers at the right time. 

 

3. Improved Root Development

Healthy grass starts with a robust root system and soil temperature directly affects root growth. As soil temperatures rise grass roots become more active and can absorb water and nutrients more efficiently. Monitoring soil temperature helps you time your lawn care practices to coincide with the periods of optimal root development. For example when over-seeding in the Autumn soil temperatures are often still warm enough for germination and root growth giving your new grass a head start for the following spring.

 

4. Disease Prevention

Soil temperature monitoring can also aid in disease prevention. Some lawn diseases like snow mold become more prevalent in cold and wet conditions. By being aware of soil temperature trends and moisture levels you can take proactive measures to prevent these issues.

 

Note- if you have never had your soil tested it's a good idea to get it done. It could be a game changer for your lawn! Check pH levels along with soil type and nutrient levels.

 

Get the Allett soil probe here

 

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