revised
March 2013
NCDA&CS Agronomic Services
for Turfgrass Management
N.C. Dept, of Agriculture & Consumer Services Agronomic Division
Physical Address: 4300 Reedy Creek Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607-6465
Mailing Address: 1040 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1040
Phone: (919) 733-2655
www.ncaqr.gov/aqronomi/
In light of recent research initiatives to investigate the
environmental impacts of turfgrass maintenance, the
golf course and turf industries in North Carolina are
fortunate to have access to a comprehensive range of
agronomic testing services to help them monitor
nutrient levels, troubleshoot problems and fertilize
appropriately. Resources— such as soil testing,
nematode assay, plant tissue analysis, solution
analysis, waste analysis and on-site consultation
services — help professionals manage nutrients and
promote turf quality.
Soil Testing
• Routine (predictive) samples are analyzed for soil class, weight/volume, pH, acidity,
% humic matter, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, manganese,
zinc, copper and sodium. Recommendations for fertilization, including nitrogen rates,
are based on the kind of turfgrass being grown, management history, soil type and
other factors.
• Problem (diagnostic) samples are analyzed for all the above, plus soluble salts.
Nitrate- and ammonium-nitrogen levels are measured only by special request and
approval. Recommendations are given to alleviate any deficiencies, toxicities, salt or
pH problems that may be indicated. When taking samples to diagnose a problem, it
is a good idea to take samples from areas both where plant growth is good and from
where plant growth is poor/abnormal. Matching nematode assay samples and plant
tissue samples are also helpful in diagnosing a soil nutrient problem.
Nematode Assay
• Routine (predictive) soil samples for nematode assay are examined for 45 species of
plant-parasitic nematodes. Routine samples are generally taken and submitted
before grasses or greens are established. Reports provide recommendations for
pre-treatment.
• Problem (diagnostic) samples are also assayed for 45 species of plant-parasitic
nematodes. They are generally collected from established areas to troubleshoot field
problems. The report includes recommendations for management.
