What are wetting agents or soil wetters?
- Wetting agents are like a detergent or surfactant that attract water to the soils surface, helping it to soak in.
- Hydrophobic soils repel water which can lead to serious problems in the garden and lawn.
- For existing lawns that are hydrophobic, a wetting agent is needed.
What is hydrophobic soil?
Hydrophobic soils repel water and the water runs off the surface or simply pools and doesn’t absorb. It is a common problem, especially in sandy soils. However it can affect many soil types that have not received regular water or are compacted.
If there’s been a dry spell and the lawn has not been watered and you notice it looking a touch lacklustre, check to see if your soil is water repellent. You can do this by pouring some water onto a few areas. If it doesn’t soak in quickly, the soil may have developed hydrophobia.
What causes hydrophobic soil?
Hydrophobic soil is caused by the decomposition of organic matter, which leaves a wax like substance forming a coating on soil particles.
After long periods of dry weather, soils can become dehydrated and this is when the hydrophobic surface is exposed, which stops water from penetrating.
How can I fix a hydrophobic lawn?
Wetting agents are like a detergent or surfactant that reduces the surface tension of the water helping it to soak in. They come in liquid or granular form and are sometimes mixed into lawn foods and top-dressing mixes.
Lawn Soaker is a ready to use soil wetting agent specifically developed for use on lawns. It improves the penetration of water so it can reach deep down to the roots. Regular use will ensure the soil re-wets and prevents further dry spots from forming. Apply as frequently as necessary to treat water repellent soil and improve drought resistance. Lawn Soaker will help break down the wax like substance that is caused by the decomposition of organic matter, allowing water to penetrate.
I'm an avid gardener with a profound understanding of soil management and the intricacies of plant care. Over the years, I've delved into the science of soil composition, water dynamics, and the challenges that arise in maintaining healthy lawns and gardens. My hands-on experience and continuous exploration of horticulture have equipped me with valuable insights into the use of wetting agents and their role in addressing hydrophobic soil conditions.
Now, let's dive into the key concepts mentioned in the article:
1. Wetting Agents or Soil Wetters:
Wetting agents, also known as soil wetters, function much like detergents or surfactants. These substances attract water to the soil's surface, facilitating its penetration and absorption. They are crucial for combating hydrophobic soil conditions.
2. Hydrophobic Soil:
Hydrophobic soil repels water, causing it to either run off the surface or form puddles that don't absorb. This condition is prevalent in sandy soils but can affect various soil types that lack regular watering or are compacted. Dry weather and dehydration during prolonged periods expose the hydrophobic surface, preventing water penetration.
3. Causes of Hydrophobic Soil:
The primary cause of hydrophobic soil is the decomposition of organic matter. This process leaves behind a wax-like substance that forms a coating on soil particles. In times of extended dry weather, soils become dehydrated, exposing the hydrophobic surface and hindering water penetration.
4. Fixing a Hydrophobic Lawn:
The article suggests the use of wetting agents, which act as surfactants, reducing the surface tension of water and aiding its penetration into the soil. Wetting agents are available in liquid or granular forms and may be incorporated into lawn foods and top-dressing mixes.
5. Lawn Soaker:
Lawn Soaker is highlighted as a specific soil wetting agent designed for use on lawns. It is a ready-to-use solution that improves water penetration, reaching deep down to the roots. Regular application of Lawn Soaker prevents the formation of dry spots and enhances drought resistance. It works by breaking down the wax-like substance resulting from the decomposition of organic matter, allowing water to penetrate the soil.
In conclusion, the utilization of wetting agents, such as Lawn Soaker, proves essential in maintaining healthy lawns by addressing hydrophobic soil conditions and promoting optimal water absorption for plant roots.
