After testing the pH of our soils within our greens profile in early 2024 we found that the pH of the 6 indicator greens tested across the site were low – some as low as 4.8. It was our intention to raise the pH gradually and set ourselves an initial target of 5.5.

We did make some progress in the last 12 months increasing the pH levels but there is a still a long way to go to get to optimum levels.

In an attempt to raise the pH of the soils even further we applied a soil conditioner product called CalCi Complex which is designed to gently increase rootzone pH in low buffered acidic soils. The product was applied after the pencil tine aeration work at 35g/m2 to allow the product the penetrate the soil profile and a follow up application will be applied in the Autumn.

The pH level of the soil is of great importance as it affects the availability of the nutrients to the grass plant. A pH of around 6.0 is thought to give the turf good access to nutrients whilst helping to control any worm problems. Monitoring and adjusting soil pH is a routine practice in golf course maintenance to optimise turf performance.

The Key benefits of using this product are:

1. Organic base to stimulate natural soil microflora.
2. Contains dolomitic limestone for increased pH and Mg input.
3. Contains Gypsum for added calcium and soil deflocculation.
4. High humic acid content to aid root development.