Building and MaintainingSoccer Fields in Indiana

Zac Reicher, Glenn Hardebeck and Clark ThrossellPurdue University Turfgrass Specialists

Table of ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................................................... 2

ConstructionScheduling ............................................................................................................................. 2

Area Needed .......................................................................................................................... 2

Types of Fields ...................................................................................................................... 2

Grading and Drainage ............................................................................................................ 2

EstablishmentSelecting a Grass Species ...................................................................................................... 4

Buying Good Seed ................................................................................................................. 4

Time of Seeding..................................................................................................................... 5

Fall Seeding ........................................................................................................................... 5

Seeding in Spring or Winter .................................................................................................. 5

Seeding .................................................................................................................................. 5

Mulching ................................................................................................................................ 5

Irrigating ................................................................................................................................ 5

Mowing .................................................................................................................................. 6

Fertilizing ............................................................................................................................... 6

Controlling Weeds .................................................................................................................6Annual MaintenanceControlling Traffic ................................................................................................................. 6

Mowing .................................................................................................................................. 7

Aerifying ................................................................................................................................ 7

Irrigating ................................................................................................................................ 8

Fertilizing ............................................................................................................................... 8

Fertilizers ............................................................................................................................... 9

Overseeding ......................................................................................................................... 10

Controlling Pests .................................................................................................................. 11

Controlling Thatch ............................................................................................................... 12

Topdressing ......................................................................................................................... 12

Other Sources of Information .............................................................................................. 12

Maintenance CalendarsKentucky Bluegrass Soccer Field ........................................................................................ 13

Bermudagrass Soccer Field ................................................................................................. 15

AY-31

PURDUE UNIVERSITY

COOPERATIVE

EXTENSION SERVICE

WEST LAFAYETTE

INDIANA 47907

2

IntroductionSoccer fields are the toughest of all turfareas to manage. Season-long traffic in alltypes of weather can literally destroy afield, plus the playing schedule rarelyallows for aggressive turf managementpractices that are absolutely essential tokeep grass alive. Soccer fields must beconstructed and managed properly toprovide adequate turf, while minimizingthe chance of injury to players. Thisbooklet highlights several principles ofconstruction and maintenance to helpproduce a soccer field with good playabil-ity and emphasis on player safety.

ConstructionSchedulingWhen planning construction of any turfarea, the optimum target completion date isAugust 1. This is because mid-August isthe best time to seed cool-seasonturfgrasses like Kentucky bluegrass, whichis the preferred grass to use for soccerfields throughout IN. Therefore, whenplanning construction, work backwardsfrom mid-August, allowing ample time forgrading, settling, installation of irrigationand drainage, etc. to determine the startdate. If seeding occurs in mid-August whengrowing conditions are exceptional, andirrigation is supplied, the fields will nor-mally be usable within 12 months afterseeding. On the other hand, if seedingoccurs at any other time of the year, itcould take 18 months or longer before thefield is ready for play.

Area NeededRegulation size soccer fields are 147 to 295ft wide (45 to 90 meters) and 295 to 393 ftlong (90 to 120 meters). Fields for youthplay can be smaller. When building soccerfields, it is important to plan extra fields torotate play allowing turf to recover fromdamage. Another alternative is to makefields and surrounds large enough withborders to rotate the direction of playtemporarily. For example, if a field runsnorth-south, allow enough space to rotatethe field 90 degrees, creating two parallel

fields that run east-west. This strategyspreads out turf wear on the heavy useareas like goal mouths and sidelines.Dedicated practice areas and parkingshould also be taken into considerationwhen planning soccer field complexes

Types of FieldsThe three basic construction types arenative soil fields made of existing soil ortopsoil brought on to the site, modified soilswhere the existing soil is modified withamendments such as sand or peat, andsoilless fields which are essentially 100%sand. The most common type of field is thenative soil field. Rarely are modified soilfields built in Indiana because it willusually take at least 80% by volume ofamendment to improve the native soil.Soilless fields are normally restricted toprofessional or university settings. Modi-fied and soilless fields are difficult andexpensive to build. Therefore, if you areconsidering a modified or soilless field,contact the information sources listed at theend of this booklet. The rest of this bookletdescribes construction and maintenance ofnative soil fields.

Grading and DrainageIt is critical to establish adequate surfacedrainage on a soccer field, or any otherathletic field. Without proper surfacedrainage, depressions will graduallydevelop that will hold water, make itdifficult to maintain turf, and possibly riskinjury to players. Though most coaches andplayers prefer to have a perfectly flat field,this is only possible with a very expensivesoilless field. A 2% slope is preferred onmost turf areas, but a 1% slope is accept-able on native soil fields given play consid-erations. For native soil fields, it is impera-tive to achieve a 1% slope from the centerof the field to both sidelines. This willmake a crown from 9 to 18 inches at thecenter of the field depending on the width.A less desirable alternative is to slope thefield from one sideline to the other at a 1 to2% grade. This will provide a �flat� fieldand allow surface drainage off the field, butis not as efficient as moving water from a

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field crowned in the center. Many willconsider substituting subsurface drain tilelines for surface drainage. This is notrecommended because water can be re-moved from a field more rapidly by surfacedrainage and will allow play within hoursafter a rain. Subsurface drainage is muchslower and water will move off a field onlywithin days or weeks after a rain. However,subsurface tile lines with open surface gratesare important to install at the edge of a fieldto collect the surface drainage from the field(Figure 1).

The initial step in grading a soccer field is toremove the topsoil and stockpile it out of theway. The second step is to establish thesubgrade using subsoil which will conformto the final grade. Therefore, the subgradeshould be created with a crown running thelength of the center of the field and slopingoff at 1% to both sidelines. When movinglarge amounts of soil, account for about15% settling on fine textured soils and lessfor coarse soils. In other words, if a foot offine textured soil is moved to create thesubgrade, that soil will settle about 1.5 to 2inches.

After the subgrade is allowed to settle or iscompacted, topsoil should be brought inover the rough grade. Ideally, four to sixinches of topsoil is needed for optimumturf performance. After the topsoil isreplaced, tile drainage with risers and/orcatch basins should be installed on thesidelines of the field. In-ground irrigationshould also be installed at this time.Though in-ground irrigation is relativelyexpensive to install, it is practically re-quired to maintain playable soccer fields inIndiana. After drainage and irrigationinstallation, the topsoil will usually need tobe tilled to break up clods and to create auniform seedbed. Avoid tilling soils thatare too wet because it will smear the soiland decrease drainage. Overly aggressive

Common Mistakes in SoccerField Construction1. Allowing inadequate time for construction in order to seed by mid-August.2. Planning too little time between seeding and use to allow for turf establishment.3. Not planning proper surface drainage.4. Not including in-ground irrigation.5. Not planning for adequate maintenance following construction.

End cross section showing the placement of the catchbasins and tile lines on the sidelines. A 1% slope willproduce approximately a 9 inch crown on a field of mini-mum width and 18 inch crown on a field of maximum width.

Tile lines with catch basin and/orrisers to catch surface drainage

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Maximum length = 393.6 ft (120 meters) Minimum length = 295.2 ft (90 meters)

Maxi

mum

wid

th =

295.2

ft

(90 m

ete

rs)

Min

imum

wid

th =

147.6

ft

(45 m

ete

rs)

Ø

Figure 1. Dimensions and drainage plans for soccer fields.

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tilling should also be avoided because itwill create a fluffy and fine particled soilthat is prone to compaction and poordrainage and aeration. Inclusion of soilamendments during tillage provide mar-ginal effects and thus generally are notrecommended.

Prior to final grading, allow adequate timefor soil to settle to avoid uneven turf later.Irrigation or rainfall will accelerate settling.During this time, a soil test should be takenfrom the site which will determine fertilizerrecommendations for the area. Correct anydeficiencies in nutrients or pH by followingthe recommendations on the soil test report.Final grading follows tilling and serves tosmooth and level the surface. Hand rakes,sand trap rakes, or other tools are used toestablish the seeding surface. A finalshallow rakingshould occur immediatelybefore seeding to prepare a good seed bed.After the seedbed is prepared, apply astarter fertilizer (high in P) at the rate of 1.5lbs. P

2O

5/1000 ft2. Starter fertilizer will

help to promote rooting and establishment.

EstablishmentSelecting a Grass SpeciesKentucky bluegrass is the preferred speciesfor most soccer fields in Indiana. Thoughslow to germinate and establish, Kentuckybluegrass has the best combination of wearresistance and recuperative ability ofgrasses adapted to Indiana. When establish-ing a soccer field, 100% Kentucky blue-grass blend containing three or fourcultivars should be used. At establishment,it is extremely important to achieve thehighest percentage possible of Kentuckybluegrass in the stand, because it is the lastchance to efficiently establish bluegrass ina soccer field. Acceptable cultivars arelisted in Table 1. Perennial ryegrass issometimes included with Kentucky blue-grass in a seed mix at establishment, butperennial ryegrass is very susceptible tomany diseases in Indiana and is not veryheat tolerant. If you must include perennialryegrass in the establishment mix, avoidseed lots with more than 10% perennialryegrass by weight.

Tall fescue is generally not recommendedfor athletic fields even though it is excep-tionally drought and wear tolerant. Tallfescue is not recommended because itrequires 18 to 24 months to establishbefore it can tolerate traffic, and it canbecome uneven and �clumpy� with ex-tended heavy traffic. Tall fescue is onlyrecommended for lightly trafficked soccerfields without irrigation and when there canbe 18 to 24 months between seeding anduse.

In the southern-most tier of counties inIndiana, bermudagrass is gaining popular-ity in athletic fields. Bermudagrass is awarm season grass that grows very activelyfrom May until September in southernIndiana, but is dormant from late Septem-ber through May. This is important becausebermudagrass cannot withstand typicalsoccer traffic when it is dormant. Thusbermudagrass is only recommended onfields that receive only summer play and noplay from September through May. Addi-tionally, bermudagrass is susceptible towinterkill which may occasionally killlarge areas of bermudagrass over thewinter. If a soccer complex in southernIndiana has the luxury of many fields thatcan be rotated in and out of play, one ortwo bermudagrass fields would work wellfor summer play, while the bluegrass fieldscould be used for play during the remain-der of the year.

Bermudagrass is not widely available byseed and thus will probably need establish-ment by sprigging or sodding. The onlytwo recommended varieties ofbermudagrass for southern Indiana are

Table 1. Kentucky bluegrass cultivars forsports applications.

A-34 (Bensun)Able IAdelphiAmericaAspenBaronBarsweetBlacksburgBonnieblue

BristolBrunswickCheriEclipseGladeIndigoLimousineMajesticMidnight

NassauP104ParadePlantiniRam IRugbySydsportTouchdownUniqueVicta

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Quickstand and Midlawn. If abermudagrass field is planned, it should beestablished in early June, thus constructionschedules will be different than a Kentuckybluegrass field. Bermudagrass maintenanceneeds are very different than those neededfor cool season grasses like Kentuckybluegrass or perennial ryegrass.

Buying Good SeedIt is important to purchase high qualitygrass seed for any turf area, but it isespecially important for soccer fields. Highquality seed will probably be some of themost expensive seed available. However,the cost of seed is minuscule compared tothe amount of money spent on maintainingthe soccer field for the next 20 years or thelifetime of the field. The best way topurchase high quality grass seed is tocontact a reputable company who hasexperience providing seed for soccer fields.Additionally, the ability to understand seedlabels is critical when selecting seed todetermine the quality. Table 2 lists thepreferred ranges of items found on thelabel of a quality seed lot. Be sure to savethe label from the seed in case you need topurchase more seed later or a problem withthe seed lot develops after seeding.

Time of SeedingFall SeedingAs mentioned previously, the best time ofyear to seed a soccer field is in the latesummer to early fall. Adequate soil mois-ture, warm soil, and limited weed pressureallow for excellent seedling growth. Themore time that the field can establishbefore summer, the better. Between August15 and September 15 is optimum seedingtime in the northern half of Indiana; from

September 1 to September 30 is optimumin the southern half of Indiana. It is criticalto seed as early as possible within thesewindows. Even when seeding within thesewindows, waiting one week later to seedmay mean the stand will take two to fouradditional weeks to mature. Establishmentin the spring is possible but not as effectiveas fall seeding.

Seeding in Spring or WinterSeeding in the spring is possible, but onlyif an automatic irrigation system is in placeto provide adequate water for the seedlingsthrough the first summer. It is important toseed as early in the spring as possible tomaximize the competition of turfgrass overcrabgrass. Dormant (winter) seeding orearly April seeding is preferred. Dormantseeding occurs when seed lies dormantuntil the soil temperatures warm in April orMay. Depending on your location inIndiana, dormant seeding can be done asearly as Thanksgiving and as late as March.The benefit of dormant seeding is that asthe soil heaves and cracks during thewinter, crevices (honeycombs) are createdfor the seeds which create ideal germina-tion conditions. Additionally, dormantseeding is easier to schedule than springseeding, because spring rains make itdifficult to seed after March in Indiana.Though seed-soil contact is importantregardless of seeding date, it is especiallyimportant when dormant or spring seeding.Irrigate often as soon as temperatures favorgermination (soil temperatures above55oF). As root systems develop, graduallyreduce frequency but increase duration ofirrigation. Continue irrigation throughoutthe summer until an adequate root systemis established.

SeedingSeed should be applied using a dropspreader, because rotary spreaders do notdisperse the seed uniformly. However,there are no spreader calibration guides forturfgrass seed. The easiest way to applyseed uniformly is to set the spreaderadjustment very low, sow one half of theseed in one direction, and then sow theother half at right angles to the first direc-

Table 2. Preferred ranges for items on thelabel of a good quality seed lot.

PreferredItem RangePurity >90%Germination >80%Crop <0.5%Weed <0.3%Noxious Weed 0Inert <8%Date Tested last 9 months

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tion of seeding. It might take three or morepasses over the field in a single direction,but it is well worth the time to get a uni-form seeding. Hydroseeding can be usedwhere seed is combined with paper-basedmulch and sprayed onto the field. Thoughthis is more expensive than traditional dropseeding, it delivers excellent results withgood germination and the added benefits ofmulch. Contact a local reputable landscaperfor hydroseeding. Whether drop seeding orhydroseeding, use a seeding rate of 2 lbs/1000 ft2 or 87 lbs/Acre for Kentuckybluegrass and 6-7 lbs/1000 ft2 or 260-305lbs/A for tall fescue. If you must includeperennial ryegrass in the seed lot withKentucky bluegrass, it should contain amaximum of 10% perennial ryegrass byweight and the mix should be seeded at 4lbs/1000 ft2 or 154 lbs/A.

MulchingMulching is generally not recommendedfor an area as large as a soccer field.However, since mulch conserves water, itis important to mulch soccer fields thatcannot be watered two to four times dailyduring establishment. One bale of clean(weed-free) straw per thousand square feetwill give a light covering that will not haveto be removed after germination. Oat orwheat straw is strongly preferred over hayor soybean stubble. Do not apply too muchmulch which will shade seedlings and haveto be raked off later. Apply the mulch verylightly so you can still see approximately50% of the soil through the mulch layer.

WateringSeedlings are very susceptible to dryingout, and the seedbed should not be allowedto dry. A newly-seeded soccer field willneed to be irrigated two to four times dailydepending on the weather. This is whyautomatic irrigation is extremely important.Enough water should be applied duringeach irrigation to moisten the top one-halfto two inches of the soil profile, but avoidover-watering and saturating the area. Oncethe seedlings are two inches high, graduallyreduce the frequency of irrigation andwater more deeply. After the turf has beenmowed two or three times, deep and

infrequent irrigation to the depth of the rootsystem is most effective.

MowingMowing a new field will encourage the turfto fill-in quickly. Mowing should beginwhen the first few seedlings are tall enoughto mow. You may only mow 10% of theplants in the first mowing, 20-30% of theplants in the second mowing, and so on.Most people wait too long to mow a newlyseeded field, so mow early and often. MowKentucky bluegrass, and perennial rye at2.0-2.5 inches and tall fescue at 2.5-3.0inches. As always, never remove more than1/3 of the grass blade at any one mowing.

FertilizingNew seedlings have poorly developed rootsystems, and thus they cannot effectivelyabsorb nutrients from the soil. Therefore, itis important to fertilize frequently afterseeding to encourage establishment. Use afertilizer containing N, P

2O

5 and K

2O in

approximately a 4:1:2 ratio and apply 0.75to 1.0 lb N/1000 ft2 four to six weeks aftergermination and again eight to ten weeksafter germination. Assuming seeding inmid-August, these applications would bemid-to-late September and again mid-to-late October. If dormant or spring seeding,apply 0.75 lbs N/1000 ft2 four to six weeks,eight to ten weeks and again 12-14 weeksafter germination.

Controlling WeedsThere is little weed pressure in the fall soweed control may not be needed for fallseedings. If broadleaf weeds such as cloverand dandelion become a problem later inthe fall, they can be easily controlled with abroadleaf herbicide application in Octoberor November, after the third or fourthmowing. Annual grasses such as crabgrasscan be easily controlled the first year withpreemergence herbicides applied in thespring. In seedings made very late in fall,winter, or spring and the field is not fullyestablished by spring, avoid applying apreemergence herbicide in early springbecause it may damage late-developingseedlings. In this case, consider using apostemergence crabgrass herbicide later in

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summer to control crabgrass.

Annual MaintenanceControlling TrafficConstant play on soccer fields will causethe turf to deteriorate and becomeunplayable and possibly dangerous to theathletes. Strict traffic management is themost effective tool in maintaining playabil-ity of soccer fields. Rotate play to schedulemaintenance such as aerification andoverseeding to limit turf damage and aid inrecovery. Consider preventing play forthree or more growing months each fielddepending on the time of year, amount ofplay, and extent of damage. Keep strictpractice areas to limit damage on gamefields. Consider movable goals, benches,bleachers, and fences to help further limitdamage.

MowingMowing is important to maintain thehealth, playability, and aesthetics of asoccer field. Mowing height of a Kentuckybluegrass soccer field should be approxi-mately 2.0-2.5 inches, 0.75 inches forbermudagrass, and 2.5-3.0 inches for tallfescue. Mowing lower than these heightson most fields will put added stress on theplants and will decrease vigor of the plantsand playability over the long term. Mowingbelow the optimum height restricts rootgrowth, favors weeds, and increasessusceptibility to damage from insects,disease, drought, and traffic.

Mowing frequency depends on how fastthe grass is growing. Some fields may needmowing two or three times per week duringspring and fall and only once every twoweeks during summer. Mow frequentlyenough so as not to remove more than 1/3of the leaf blade in a single mowing. Forinstance, if you are mowing at two inches,mow before the grass reaches three inchestall. If the grass has grown too tall, raise themowing height and gradually lower it backto the original height over a few mowings.Avoid mowing during midday whentemperatures are above 90o and the soil isdry because you may damage the turf. Ifyou must mow during a hot and dry period,

wait until temperatures moderate in theearly morning or late evening.

Rotary mowers can be used on soccerfields mowed at two inches or higher. Mostrotary mowers do not cut well at mowingheights less than two inches. Reel typemowers, on the other hand, mow best attwo inches and lower. Regardless of themower type, mower blades must be sharpand may need sharpening four to six timesa year. A sharp blade results in a cleanerand healthier cut, leaving a more attractiveand healthy field.

Clipping removal is generally not recom-mended on most turfgrass areas includingsoccer fields. Clippings do not causethatch, and returning clippings will recyclevaluable nutrients to the soil therebyreducing fertilizer requirements.

AerifyingAerification is the mechanical removal ofsoil cores and may be the most importantturf management practice on soccer fields.Aerification relieves soil compaction,improves water and air movement into thesoil, increases rooting, and greatly im-proves turfgrass health. Aerification ismost beneficial in compacted areas withintense traffic such as goal mouths, thecenters of fields, and sideline areas.Whenever aerification is done on a soccerfield, it should be combined with seeding tohelp maintain dense turf. This will bediscussed more in the overseeding section.

Aerification is most beneficial when thelargest tines or spoons available are used,penetration is 2 to 4 inches deep, and when20 to 40 holes are punched per square foot.Aerifiers with reciprocating arms are themost effective. Aerifiers that roll behindtractors are less effective because they donot penetrate deep enough nor punchenough holes per square foot. Mostaerifying machines available at rentalagencies may not punch enough holes persquare foot on a single pass, thus multiplepasses will be needed to achieve the 20 to40 holes/ft2. Cores can be broken up anddispersed following aerification with adragmat.

8

Practices such as slicing or spiking removeno soil and are not considered aerification.The purchase of a large reciprocating armaerifier should be included in the budgetbecause aerification will be needed often.There are professional aerification servicesthat can be hired to aerify athletic fieldsproviding a viable alternative to purchasingyour own aerifier.

Aerification should be performed as oftenas possible on a soccer field and should bedone preferably when the turf is activelygrowing. However, if playing schedules donot allow for aerification during the season,aerifying at any time of the year on soccerfields better than not aerifying at all.Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue should beaerified at least once in the fall (September)and once in the spring (April). Goal mouthsand other high traffic areas can also beaerified during the season when there is abreak in play. Bermudagrass should beaerified at least once in June or July whenit is actively growing.

IrrigatingTo maintain a healthy, actively growingturf capable of recovery from damage, it isessential to water a soccer field during dryperiods. This is especially important on asoccer field that receives regularoverseeding or sprigging because seedlingsare present in the field almost all year long.Seedlings cannot withstand moisture stressbecause they do not have a well-developedroot system capable of extracting waterfrom a large area in the soil. Bermudagrassfields generally have much lower waterrequirements than Kentucky bluegrassfields. However, ample water is needed toencourage recovery and establishment ofnew Bermudagrass sprigs. The sameprinciples for irrigating cool season grasseshold true when irrigating warm seasongrasses.

The frequency of watering will vary fromsite to site and should be determined by theappearance of the turf. This can be deter-mined because the first signs of waterstress in a turfgrass stand are a bluish-greencolor, and footprints remain in the turf after

walking across it. Ideally, the turf shouldbe watered at this point. As the degree ofwater stress increases, the turf will wilt anddevelop a grayish-green color. Turf thathas wilted should be watered withoutdelay. Wilted turf will recover very rapidlyfollowing watering. Severe drought stresswill cause the turf plants to cease growing,and the leaves will turn brown and possiblydie. If soccer fields are allowed to wilt orturn brown, do not allow play on the fieldsuntil they can be irrigated and the turfrecovers. Though this might take up to twoweeks, it will prevent severe damage thatwill result from traffic on wilted or dor-mant turf.

Most fields in Indiana will need from 1 to1-1/2 inches of water per week dependingon weather, soil type, etc. It is best to applythis amount of water in a single, thoroughsoaking, or two equal applications of waterthree to four days apart rather than in lightirrigations every day. The soil should bewetted to the depth of the deepest root.

Schedule irrigation as to not interfere withplay and to allow ample infiltration anddrying prior to use. The ideal time toirrigate a soccer field is from 4:00 to 8:00a.m. At this time, water pressure is usuallyhigh, there is little distortion of the water-ing pattern by wind, the amount of waterlost to evaporation is negligible, and thefield will dry by the time it is used later inthe day. The second best time to water isfrom 8:00 to 12:00 p.m. Usually, distortionfrom the wind is not a problem at this timeand loss from evaporation is slight. Amajor problem may be lack of waterpressure for those using municipal watersystems. A potential problem caused bywatering in the early evening hours may begreater incidence of disease. This problemcan be reduced by watering only when theturf needs water and by watering infre-quently but deeply. Watering an estab-lished turf during midday is not veryeffective. A large amount of water is lostthrough evaporation, making it difficult tothoroughly wet the soil. Although notrecommended, midday watering does notcause the turf to burn as once thought.

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FertilizingSoccer fields need to be fertilized tomaintain color, density, and vigor. Soccerfields need to be fertilized slightly morethan other turf areas to encourage growthand overcome the constant wear and tear.Fertilizer needs may vary due to:

� Weather: A rainy summer will stimu-late growth and will usually necessitatemore annual fertilizer than a drysummer. The same holds true for anirrigated field versus an unirrigatedfield.

� Soil type: Turf grown on a very sandyor a very heavy clay soil will needmore fertilizer than turf grown on a siltloam soil. Soil type and pH will have alarge effect on the amount of phospho-rus and potassium that needs to beapplied.

� Age and quality of existing field: Anew field will need more fertilizer forthe first few years to enhance density.Improving a neglected or thin field thatneeds significant overseeding orsprigging may also require moreannual fertilizer for the first few years.

� Species: Perennial ryegrass needsslightly more fertilizer than Kentuckybluegrass. This additional 0.5 to 0.75lbs N/1000 ft2 should be applied in thelate spring or early summer to helpcombat disease problems.

FertilizersAll fertilizers will have a series of threenumbers displayed prominently on thelabel. These numbers represent the percent-age by weight of nitrogen, phosphorus (asP

2O

5), and potassium (as K

2O). For in-

stance, a 24-4-8 fertilizer will have 24% N,4% P

2O

5, and 8% K

2O. Though all three

elements are important in maintaining a

healthy turf stand, N will cause the greatestresponse. Because of this, most fertilizerrecommendations for fields are listed as lb.N/1000 ft2. Nitrogen fertilizers come in twobasic forms: quick release (soluble) nitro-gen and slow release (insoluble) nitrogen.Quick release nitrogen normally causes aresponse in a week or less, whereas slowrelease nitrogen will cause a response inthree to 10 weeks or more. Quick releasenitrogen is inexpensive and may burn leafblades if applied improperly. Slow releaseforms tend to be more expensive, but willrarely burn leaf blades even when appliedat temperatures above 85o. Both N formscan and should be used on fields. Examplesof slow and quick release N forms arelisted in Table 3. Both forms of N are oftenblended in one fertilizer bag. This isadvantageous because the quick release Ngives a response shortly after applicationand the slow release N results in a moregradual and longer response.

Fertilizing with phosphorus and potassiumis also important in maintaining a healthyfield. The best way to determine how muchphosphorus and potassium to apply annu-ally is to follow the recommendations of asoil test. In lieu of a soil test, a generalrecommendation is to apply 1/4 as muchphosphorus and 1/3 as much potassium asnitrogen. For instance, if you apply 4pounds N/1000 ft2 per year, you shouldapply 1 lb P2O5/1000 ft2 phosphorus and 3lb K2O/1000 ft2 per 1000 ft2 per year.

On Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescuefields, it is best to fertilize lightly in springand early summer, little to none in summer,and heavy in fall. A heavy fall fertilizationprogram will produce the healthiest turfthroughout the year. Applying high rates ofN in spring and summer stimulates excessleaf growth at the expense of root growth.

Table 3. Nitrogen forms found in turf fertilizers.

Quick Release N Slow Release NUrea Sulfur Coated Urea (SCU)Ammoniacal N (NH

4) Polymer Coated Urea

Ammonium Nitrate (NH3NO

3) Methylene Ureas

Natural Organics

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Not only does this force frequent mowing,it reduces turf quality during the summer.High rates of spring and summer N canalso stimulate disease, weed, and insectactivity. On bermudagrass soccer fields, itis better to fertilize in May and June withno fertilizer applied in the fall, near or afterthe onset of dormancy. However, potas-sium should be applied just prior tobermudagrass dormancy at 2.0 lbs K

2O/

1000 ft2 with muriate of potash (0-0-60) tohelp improve winter hardiness.

Tables 4 and 5 list the Purdue recommen-dations for soccer fertilization programs.The maximum program is to overcomedamage in heavily-used soccer fields withadequate budgets for irrigation, mowing,and fertilization. The standard program isfor most soccer fields in Indiana and theminimum program would be for soccerfields that are seldomly-used fields with noirrigation.

Apply fertilizer uniformly over the field. Itis best to adjust the spreader setting for thehalf rate of fertilizer and apply in twodirections perpendicular to each other. Forrotary spreaders, apply the fertilizer so thewheel is at the edge of the pattern from theprevious pass. Improper spreading offertilizer will result in �streaking�, thealternate dark- and light-green stripes in thefield. Irrigation or rain following fertiliza-tion is important to move nitrogen off the

leaf blades and into the soil. Some fertil-izer/herbicide combination products cannotbe watered-in, so be sure to read the labelinstructions. Avoid applying fertilizer todrought-stressed or dormant turf, or whentemperatures are over 80oF.

OverseedingWith the constant traffic on soccer fields, itis important to overseed regularly duringthe year to maintain density. The optimumtime to overseed cool-season turfgrasses isin August and September in Indiana.However, for the highest quality soccerfield, overseeding can and should be doneat any time of the year as long as there isadequate irrigation to provide for germina-tion and establishment. The species usedfor overseeding depends largely if therewill be continuous play on the field withinsix weeks of seeding. If there will be trafficon the field, a mix of 20 to 50% perennialryegrass and 50 to 80 % Kentucky blue-grass should be used. If little or no traffic isexpected, then 100% Kentucky bluegrassshould be used. Perennial ryegrass worksbetter in the short term because it germi-nates quickly, is fairly traffic tolerant as aseedling, and provides quick recovery ofthe area. Kentucky bluegrass germinatesmore slowly, but is better for the long termbecause it but produces a more diseasetolerant turf with better wear recovery.When overseeding, apply 4 to 6 lbs/1000

Table 5. Fertilization programs for Bermudagrass soccer fields.

ProgramDate Rate/1000 ft2 Maximum Standard Minimum FertilizerMay 1 -15 1.5 lbs N X X X Urea (46-0-0)June 1-15 1.5 lbs N X X Urea (46-0-0)September 2.0 lbs K

2O X Muriate of potash

(0-0-60)

Table 4. Fertilization programs for soccer fields containing Kentucky bluegrass, perennialryegrass and/or tall fescue.

NitrogenProgram Release

Date lb. N/1000 ft2 Maximum Standard Minimum FormSep. (fall) 1.0 X X X Slow/QuickOct. 1.0 X X Slow/QuickNov. 1-15 (late fall) 1.0 X X X QuickMay 15-June 1 1.0 X X X SlowJuly 15-30 0.75 X Slow

11

ft2 if the mix contains perennial ryegrassand 2 to 3 lbs/1000 ft2 if the seed is 100%Kentucky bluegrass. Overseeding a tallfescue field should be done with seedcontaining 100% tall fescue at 5 to 6 lbs/1000 ft2.

The first step in overseeding is to apply astarter fertilizer (high in phosphorus) overthe entire field at 1.5 lbs P

2O

5/1000 ft2.

Then aerify the field, punching at least 20to 40 holes/ft2 with the largest hollow tinesavailable. This will increase the seed-soilcontact, improving germination and rate ofestablishment. You can rarely over aerifyat this time, so make many passes over thefield concentrating especially on the goalmouths and the center of the field. A powerraking at this time will also help to increasethe seed-soil contact and break up theaerification cores. Apply the seed to thefield with either a dropseeder or a poweroverseeder, which is a machine that willdrop the seeds into small grooves that itcuts into the soil. Try to make two to fourpasses over the field in different directionswith either the dropseeder or the poweroverseeder to insure a uniform seeding.After seeding, water the newly-seeded areathree to four times daily with light irriga-tion. Continue to mow frequently to limitshade and competition from the establishedturf. Six weeks after germination, apply0.75 to 1.0 lb N/1000 ft2 with a fertilizercontaining N, P

2O

5 and K

2O. Avoid apply-

ing any herbicides to the area prior toseeding or for at least 6 weeks after seed-ing, but check the label for the specificinstructions for each product.

Overseeding bermudagrass is currently notpossible because bermudagrass seed isunavailable. Bermudgrass sprigs should beused to repair damage on a bermudagrassfield. After the bermudgrass has greened-up, aggressively hand- or power rake thearea to be repaired to stir the soil and allowfor good sprig-soil contact. Use a powerrake on a healthy portion of the field tosever bermudagrass sprigs. Rake up thesprigs and spread them in the damagedarea. Tamp or roll the area to push thesprigs into contact with the soil. Keep the

sprigs well-watered until they germinate,and then follow the previous instructionsfor fertilization.

Controlling PestsVery few pests are problematic in soccerfields in Indiana. Most pests can be mini-mized, if not eliminated, by proper fertiliz-ing, watering, aerifying, and mowing.However, pesticides may be needed incertain cases. The labels on pesticides willnormally state when traffic can be allowedback into an area following an application.As a rule of thumb, once a pesticide isallowed to dry on the leaves, it is veryimprobable that it can be removed bycontact from soccer players. To be extracautious, it would be wise to limit traffic ona field within 24 hours after any pesticideapplication. Always follow the labelinstructions when using any pesticide.

The labels on most herbicides indicate thatthey cannot be used before seeding andsprigging or on seedling turf. Thus herbi-cide use is often restricted because seed-lings are usually present on soccer fields.Because of this, the strongest weaponagainst weeds is a dense, healthy turf.Since seeding may occur regularlythroughout a season, preemergence annualgrass herbicides should rarely be used tocontrol crabgrass. Preemergence herbicideswill dramatically decrease establishment ofseedlings. Instead, use postemergenceannual grass herbicides such as MSMA(Daconate 6), dithiopyr (Dimension), orfenoxaprop (Acclaim) to control crabgrass.Broadleaf weeds such as clover anddandelion can be controlled with broadleafherbicide applications in the spring or fall,but seeding cannot occur after this applica-tion until a heavy rain or thorough irriga-tion occurs. Broadleaf weed herbicidesshould not be applied over the top ofseedlings until the seedlings are largeenough to mow two or three times, whichmight be a month or more depending onseeding date. Poa annua is becoming aproblem on some athletic fields, but sincecontrol is extremely difficult, it should beattempted only on high-budget fields.

Always follow label instructions whenusing any herbicide for specific uses, rates,and flexibility of use around seeding.

Turfgrass diseases are generally not aproblem on soccer fields. Rust, red thread,and dollar spot may cause problems onfields low in nitrogen. Generally, increas-ing the annual rate of N should limit thesediseases in the future. Brown patch andpythium are two diseases that may causeextensive damage in July and August infields with a high percentage of perennialryegrass and are heavily fertilized. Preven-tative fungicide schedules should be usedonly on fields with a history of diseaseproblems.

Insects may become a problem on someathletic fields containing cool seasongrasses. The type and cause of the problemvaries widely among locations, but whitegrubs probably cause most damage of theinsect pests. White grub damage is gener-ally seen in late August and Septemberwhen patches of turf wither and dry. Whitegrubs can be controlled through a preventa-tive insecticide application made in lateJune or July, depending on the productused. However, preventative white grubapplications probably are not needed unlessthe field has a history of white grub dam-age.

Weeds are usually the only pests inbermudagrass fields. Controlling weeds inbermudgrass fields is best done with anapplication of glyphosate (Roundup) inDecember or January when thebermudagrass is dormant. Diseases andwhite grubs are not problems inbermudagrass fields.

Thatch ControlThatch is a tightly intermingled, organiclayer of dead and living shoots, stems, androots that accumulate just above the soilsurface. Thatch accumulation is due toeither over-fertilization, over-watering,

and/or soil compaction. Soccer fields rarelydevelop a thatch layer because of theconstant wear and tear on the grass. Thus,thatch control is normally not necessary onsoccer fields, and the regular aerificationpractices should suffice as a thatch controlmethod.

TopdressingTopdressing is the practice of spreading athin layer of sand and/or soil over the fieldwhich is then dragged or brushed into theturf. Topdressing is helpful in smoothing afield and can help improve establishmentwhen used after seeding. Topdressing withsand following aerification may help tochange the soil profile over many, manyyears. Time and money should only bespent on topdressing after other basic turfmanagement practices are done andperfected. Therefore, topdressing is re-served only for the high-budget soccerfields.

Other Sources of InformationSportsTurf Managers Association (STMA)P.O. Box 3480, Omaha, NE 68130 800-323-3875

Purdue University Turfgrass ScienceProgram WWW Pagehttp://www.agry.purdue.edu/turf

Athletic Fields - Specification Outline,Construction, and Maintenance.Agricultural Sciences Distribution Center,Agricultural Admin. Bldg., UniversityPark, PA 16802.

United States Soccer Federation1801-1811 S. Prairie Ave, Chicago, IL60616, 312-808-1300, http://www.us-soccer.com

United States Youth Soccer899 Presidential Dr # 117, Richardson, TX75081-2964, 800-476-2237

12

Thanks to Chuck Stephenson, Monroe County Parks, and Tom Voigt, University of Illinois,for reviewing this publication.

Tab

le 6

. Man

agem

ent

cale

ndar

for

Ind

iana

soc

cer

fiel

ds c

onta

inin

g K

entu

cky

blue

gras

s, p

eren

nial

rye

gras

s, o

r ta

ll fe

scue

.

Mai

nten

ance

Lev

el

Mon

thL

owM

ediu

mH

igh

Not

es

Mar

chO

vers

eed

if u

nabl

e to

fal

l or

Ove

rsee

d if

una

ble

to f

all o

rO

vers

eed

if u

nabl

e to

fal

l or

Ken

tuck

y bl

uegr

ass

is p

refe

rred

dorm

ant s

eed

dorm

ant s

eed

dorm

ant s

eed

unle

ss ta

ll fe

scue

is th

e do

min

ant

spec

ies

on th

e fi

eld

Apr

ilB

egin

aer

ific

atio

nB

egin

aer

ific

atio

nU

se a

mix

con

tain

ing

pere

nnia

lan

d ov

erse

edin

gan

d ov

erse

edin

gry

egra

ss if

the

fiel

d is

in u

se

May

App

ly 1

.0 lb

N/1

000

ft2 af

ter

App

ly 1

.0 lb

N/1

000

ft2 af

ter

App

ly 1

.0 lb

N/1

000

ft2 af

ter

Use

fer

tiliz

er w

ith 5

0% o

r m

ore

spri

ng g

row

th f

lush

spri

ng g

row

th f

lush

spri

ng g

row

th f

lush

slow

rel

ease

NC

ontr

ol b

road

leaf

wee

ds if

nee

ded

Con

trol

bro

adle

af w

eeds

if n

eede

dC

ontr

ol b

road

leaf

wee

ds if

nee

ded

Che

ck la

bel f

or s

eedi

ng li

mit

atio

nsC

ontin

ue a

erif

icat

ion

and

Use

a m

ix c

onta

inin

g pe

renn

ial

over

seed

ing

whe

n po

ssib

lery

egra

ss if

the

fiel

d is

in u

se

June

Mon

itor

annu

al g

rass

y w

eeds

Mon

itor

annu

al g

rass

y w

eeds

Mon

itor

annu

al g

rass

y w

eeds

Che

ck la

bel f

or s

eedi

ng li

mita

tions

and

cont

rol i

f ne

cess

ary

and

cont

rol i

f ne

cess

ary

and

cont

rol i

f ne

cess

ary

Irri

gate

as

need

edIr

riga

te a

s ne

eded

July

Con

trol

whi

te g

rubs

ifC

ontr

ol w

hite

gru

bs if

Con

trol

whi

te g

rubs

ifhi

stor

y di

ctat

eshi

stor

y di

ctat

eshi

stor

y di

ctat

es

App

ly 0

.75

lb N

/100

0 ft

2U

se f

ertil

izer

with

50%

or

mor

e s

low

rel

ease

N

Irri

gate

as

need

edIr

riga

te a

s ne

eded

Mon

itor

dise

ase

pres

sure

and

cont

rol i

f ne

cess

ary

13

Tab

le 6

. Man

agem

ent

cale

ndar

for

Ind

iana

soc

cer

fiel

ds c

onta

inin

g K

entu

cky

blue

gras

s, p

eren

nial

rye

gras

s, o

r ta

ll fe

scue

.

Mai

nten

ance

Lev

el

Mon

thL

owM

ediu

mH

igh

Not

es

Aug

ust

Irri

gate

as

need

edIr

riga

te a

s ne

eded

Mon

itor

dise

ase

pres

sure

and

cont

rol i

f ne

cess

ary

Sept

embe

rA

pply

1.0

lb N

/100

0 ft

2A

pply

1.0

lb N

/100

0 ft

2A

pply

1.0

lb N

/100

0 ft

2U

se f

ertil

izer

with

30-

50%

slow

rel

ease

N

Aer

ific

atio

n an

d ov

erse

edin

gA

erif

icat

ion

and

over

seed

ing

ifA

erif

icat

ion

and

over

seed

ing

Use

a m

ix c

onta

inin

g pe

renn

ial r

yegr

ass

if s

ched

ule

perm

itsif

sch

edul

e pe

rmits

if s

ched

ule

perm

itsif

the

fiel

d is

in u

se, 1

00%

Ken

tuck

ybl

uegr

ass

if n

o tr

affi

c is

exp

ecte

d,or

100

% ta

ll fe

scue

if ta

ll fe

scue

is th

e do

min

ant s

peci

es in

the

fiel

d

Oct

ober

Opt

imum

tim

e to

con

trol

Opt

imum

tim

e to

con

trol

Opt

imum

tim

e to

con

trol

Che

ck la

bel f

or s

eedi

ng li

mita

tions

broa

dlea

f w

eeds

broa

dlea

f w

eeds

broa

dlea

f w

eeds

App

ly 1

.0 lb

N/1

000

ft2

App

ly 1

.0 lb

N/1

000

ft2

Use

fer

tiliz

er w

ith 3

0-50

%sl

ow r

elea

se N

Con

side

r ae

rifi

catio

n an

dU

se 1

00%

Ken

tuck

y bl

uegr

ass

if n

oov

erse

edin

g if

sch

edul

e pe

rmits

traf

fic

is e

xpec

ted

or 1

00%

tall

fesc

ueif

tall

fesc

ue is

the

dom

inan

t spe

cies

in th

e fi

eld

Nov

embe

rA

pply

1.5

lb N

/100

0 ft

2A

pply

1.0

lb N

/100

0 ft

2A

pply

1.0

lb N

/100

0 ft

2U

se f

ertil

izer

with

100

% f

ast

rele

ase

N (

urea

)

Aer

ify

and

dorm

ant-

seed

Aer

ify

and

dorm

ant-

seed

Aer

ify

and

dorm

ant-

seed

Use

Ken

tuck

y bl

uegr

ass

for

over

seed

ing

follo

win

g la

st g

ame

follo

win

g la

st g

ame

follo

win

g la

st g

ame

14

Tab

le 7

. Man

agem

ent

cale

ndar

for

Ind

iana

soc

cer

fiel

ds c

onta

inin

g B

erm

udag

rass

.

Mai

nten

ance

Lev

el

Mon

thL

owM

ediu

mH

igh

Not

es

Apr

ilK

eep

all t

raff

ic o

ff f

ield

unt

ilK

eep

all t

raff

ic o

ff f

ield

unt

ilK

eep

all t

raff

ic o

ff f

ield

unt

ilbe

rmud

agra

ss g

reen

s-up

and

berm

udag

rass

gre

ens-

up a

ndbe

rmud

agra

ss g

reen

s-up

and

begi

ns g

row

ing

activ

ely

begi

ns g

row

ing

activ

ely

begi

ns g

row

ing

activ

ely

May

App

ly 1

.5 lb

s N

/100

0 ft

2 af

ter

App

ly 1

.5 lb

s N

/100

0 ft

2 af

ter

App

ly 1

.5 lb

s N

/100

0 ft

2 af

ter

Use

ure

a (4

6-0-

0)be

rmud

agra

ss h

as g

reen

ed-u

pbe

rmud

agra

ss h

as g

reen

ed-u

pbe

rmud

agra

ss h

as g

reen

ed-u

p

June

Mon

itor

annu

al g

rass

y w

eeds

Mon

itor

annu

al g

rass

y w

eeds

Mon

itor

annu

al g

rass

y w

eeds

Che

ck la

bel f

or s

eedi

ng li

mita

tions

and

cont

rol i

f ne

cess

ary

and

cont

rol i

f ne

cess

ary

and

cont

rol i

f ne

cess

ary

Res

prig

dam

aged

are

asR

espr

ig d

amag

ed a

reas

Res

prig

dam

aged

are

asA

erif

y if

sch

edul

e pe

rmits

Aer

ify

if s

ched

ule

perm

itsA

erif

y if

sch

edul

e pe

rmits

Irri

gate

as

need

edIr

riga

te a

s ne

eded

App

ly 1

.5 lb

s N

/100

0 ft

2A

pply

1.5

lbs

N/1

000

ft2

Use

ure

a (4

6-0-

0)

July

Irri

gate

as

need

edIr

riga

te a

s ne

eded

Aer

ify

if s

ched

ule

perm

its

Aug

ust

Irri

gate

as

need

edIr

riga

te a

s ne

eded

Sept

embe

rA

pply

2.0

lb K

2O/1

000

ft2

Use

mur

iate

of

pota

sh (

0-0-

60)

Oct

ober

Kee

p al

l tra

ffic

off

fie

ldK

eep

all t

raff

ic o

ff f

ield

Kee

p al

l tra

ffic

off

fie

ld-

Apr

ilaf

ter

Ber

mud

agra

ss g

oes

afte

r B

erm

udag

rass

goe

saf

ter

Ber

mud

agra

ss g

oes

into

dor

man

cyin

to d

orm

ancy

into

dor

man

cy

Dec

embe

rC

onsi

der

an a

pplic

atio

n of

Con

side

r an

app

licat

ion

ofC

onsi

der

an a

pplic

atio

nB

erm

udag

rass

mus

t be

- Fe

brua

rygl

ypho

sate

to c

ontr

ol w

eeds

glyp

hosa

te to

con

trol

wee

dsgl

ypho

sate

to c

ontr

ol w

eeds

abs

olut

ely

dorm

ant

15

16

NOTES

Cooperative Extension work in Agriculture and Home Economics, state of Indiana, Purdue Univer-sity, and U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating; H. A. Wadsworth, Director, West Lafayette, IN.Issued in furtherance of the acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914. The Purdue University CooperativeExtension Service is an equal opportunity/equal access institution.

4/99