As temperatures rise and irrigation demands increase, many turf managers start to see isolated areas that remain dry, stressed, or wilted; even when overall irrigation schedules look adequate.
These problem areas are often linked to Localized Dry Spot (LDS), a condition caused by hydrophobic soils that repel water rather than absorb it. The instinct is often increasing irrigation runtimes.
While that may seem like a simple fix, it doesn’t always address the root cause and can create additional challenges, including wasted water, nutrient movement, and increased disease pressure in surrounding areas that are already receiving sufficient moisture.
The goal isn’t simply to apply more water; it’s to improve how water moves through the soil and is retained within the root zone.
This is where moisture management solutions can make a difference.
Hydretain uses hygroscopic and humectant technology to capture soil moisture vapor and convert it into plant-available water. By improving moisture retention in the root zone, Hydretain can be incorporated into irrigation and drought-stress management programs to help maintain turf quality during periods of heat stress.
For areas showing water repellency or uneven moisture distribution, Exacto’s Lateral G is designed to improve water infiltration and lateral movement through the soil profile. By helping water spread more evenly, Lateral G can assist in the prevention and remediation of localized dry spots while improving overall moisture uniformity.
Exacto also offers a range of wetting agents and soil surfactants developed to address specific moisture management challenges, including infiltration, repellency, distribution, and overall soil-water interaction. Selecting the right product depends on soil conditions, irrigation practices, turf type, and environmental factors.
An effective moisture management program focuses on getting water where it’s needed most and maintaining consistent moisture throughout the root zone. More uniform soil moisture supports healthier root development, improves turf quality, and helps maximize the efficiency of every irrigation cycle.
Whether you're managing a golf course, sports field, commercial property, or high-end residential landscape, proactive moisture management can be an important tool for maintaining healthy, resilient turf through the summer months.
At Ewing Outdoor Supply, our team works with turf managers and landscape professionals to identify solutions tailored to their specific site conditions. From Hydretain to Exacto’s Lateral G and other wetting agent technologies, we can help you build a program designed to improve irrigation performance and address localized dry spot.
Don’t let hydrophobic soils dictate your irrigation strategy. Contact your local Ewing Outdoor Supply branch or reach out to Technical Services at turfhelpline@ewingos.com to learn more about moisture management solutions that can help your turf perform at its best.