What is the function of soil fumigation in turf management?

Soil fumigation in turf management serves the primary function of controlling existing plants and pathogens through the formation of a gas. When specialized fumigants are applied to the soil, they volatilize, turning into gas that penetrates the soil structure. This gaseous form allows for effective distribution, reaching various depths to eliminate harmful organisms such as nematodes, fungi, and bacteria that can detrimentally affect turf health.

In this context, the use of fumigants is particularly valuable because it targets a variety of soil-borne pests and diseases, thereby promoting a healthier soil environment for grass growth. This process can lead to improved turf establishment and resilience by reducing competition from unwanted plant species and pathogens that may inhibit turf performance.

While nutrients are essential for turf growth, providing them directly through fumigation is not the method's purpose. Similarly, soil fumigation does not influence sunlight availability or soil aeration directly; those aspects are managed through other practices, such as fertilization and physical aeration techniques.