Effects of turfgrass, cutting height and soil conditions on traction

Studies have been conducted to determine the effect of various turfgrass and soil conditions on the traction of athletic field surfaces. With the development of a new traction testing device (Pennfoot), it is desirable to re-examine the plant and soil characteristics affecting traction. The objectives of this study are to: 1) determine whether tall fescue verdure and cutting height affects translational traction over differing soil water contents; and 2) determine the effect of varying soil water content on the translational traction of four turfgrass species each maintained at three cutting heights. The presence or absence of verdure had little effect on traction of tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) turf. Lower cutting heights of tall fescue resulted in higher traction, presumably due to increased tiller density. As soil water content increased traction on tall fescue turf increased. Pennfoot detected traction differences due to species. Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) and tall fescue had higher peak traction measurements than perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) and chewing and red fescue (Festuca rubra L. ssp. commutata and Festuca rubra L. ssp. rubra). Traction measurements of tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and red fescue were all negatively correlated with soil water content; however, Kentucky bluegrass traction measurements were not correlated with soil water content. Both turfgrass and soil characteristics impart an influence on traction; however, traction on natural turf is controlled by their combined effects. Ideally, traction results obtained with instrumentation will correlate to player's assessments of traction. Such comparisons need to be made in the future.