Evaluation of the effect of domestic‐waste slag sand on the growth characteristics of zoysiagrass

Abstract The sustainable management of turfgrass is critical in landscaping, particularly in golf courses where soil quality and resource efficiency are critical concerns. In this study, we investigated the utilization of waste slag sand as a topdressing material for zoysiagrass and evaluated its potential benefits in promoting plant height, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and coverage. Waste slag sand was applied either alone or in combination with river sand and compost, and plant growth over time was monitored with reference to control plants. Results indicated that while waste slag sand alone had a relatively lower impact on plant height than the control, and in combination with compost, it significantly enhanced growth, resulting in higher relative height values. NDVI measurements showed improved plant health and greenness in the areas where waste slag sand and compost mixtures were applied, surpassing those of control, waste slag sand, and river sand alone. The coverage area index also revealed that this combination supported more extensive ground coverage, thereby increasing its effectiveness in promoting turfgrass density. These findings suggest that waste slag sand, particularly in combination with organic matter like compost, can serve as an effective and sustainable topdressing material for zoysiagrass. Future research is needed to evaluate its long‐term effects, including on other turfgrass species, broader applications, and other traits, such as root morphology and chlorophyll content.