Monitoring of soil fertility using in situ soil electrical conductivity sensor in sports turf field

Abstract Nutrient deficiencies may be common due to over irrigation, especially with sand‐based sports fields and golf greens. Recent innovations in sensor technology enable precise, simultaneous measurements of soluble salts via electrical conductivity (EC), which may be related to short‐term availability of soluble nutrients. The objectives of this study are to correlate pore water EC with soil and grass nutrient concentrations, comparing distinct types of fertilizer application rates. Preliminary results suggest a correlation between in situ and laboratory EC. Ongoing work with the nutrients will be reported.