Define fertigation and explain two benefits in turf management.

• A. The delivery of fertilizer through irrigation water; benefits include precise nutrient timing to demand and reduced volatilization and leaching losses.
• B. Fertilizer applied after irrigation; benefits include faster growth.
• C. Fertigation is using compost to fertilize; benefits include soil health.
• D. Fertigation is applying fertilizer only in rainy seasons; benefits include lower cost.

Answer: (A)

Fertigation means delivering soluble fertilizers through the irrigation system, so nutrients move with the irrigation water into the turf root zone. In turf management, two main benefits stand out. First, precise nutrient timing to demand. By injecting nutrients during regular irrigation events, you align nutrient availability with when the turf is actively taking up water and nutrients, improving efficiency and reducing the chance of over- or under-fertilizing. Second, reduced volatilization and leaching losses. Because nutrients are dissolved and delivered with irrigation water, losses from surface volatilization are minimized and, with careful scheduling and rates, nutrient movement beyond the root zone is better controlled, keeping more of the fertilizer where the grass can use it.