Tensiometers can be used successfully to determine frequency and duration of turfgrass irrigations, according to the trials reported here on three established golf greens. Whether irrigation systems are manually controlled and merely guided by tensiometer readings, or completely automatic with tensiometers connected to a time-control system, this device—properly used—saves both time and water. Data are also included on tensiometers buried at two depths rather than one, and special emphasis is placed on the importance of even distribution of water from the sprinklers, a thatch control program, and regular soil cultivation with a mechanical aerifier to reduce the effects of soil compaction.

Information included in this report is from a paper first presented before the American Society of Agronomy, Kansas City, Missouri, November, 1964.