Some sources of recycled water have slightly higher mineral or total dissolved solids (TDS) content than existing irrigation supplies. The higher salt content in the recycled water begs the question, “What’s that recycled water going to do to my grass?” Although slightly higher in salinity, recycled water has higher concentrations of essential macro-nutrients. In agronomic circles it is well established that small, frequent doses of nutrients result in the best plant response (Olson and Kurtz, 1982). Does the nutrient value of the recycled water offer benefits to turf quality over the increased salts? During a field study conducted in Central Oahu irrigation with recycled water was compared to irrigation with groundwater. A randomized plot design was establish to test plots receiving supplemental fertilizer and no fertilizer. Initial turf quality readings show no statistically significant difference in turf health with recycled water during a randomized plot field experiment.
WHAT*S THAT RECYCLED WATER GOING TO DO TO MY GRASS?
Authors: Jordan W. Smith, Joe Myers, Ronald W. Crites
2005 WEFTEC