Wetting agents are chemical compounds that are added to water to reduce its surface tension and improve its ability to penetrate soil. In the turf industry, wetting agents are commonly used to improve water distribution in soils, increase water retention, and enhance the effectiveness of irrigation systems. In this article, we will discuss the different types of wetting agents used in turf.
Types of Wetting Agents
Non-Ionic Surfactants: Non-ionic surfactants are a type of wetting agent that is commonly used in turf. They are effective in reducing the surface tension of water and improving its ability to penetrate soil. Non-ionic surfactants are also effective in improving water retention and reducing water runoff. They are commonly used in golf course maintenance and sports turf management. OMEX non-ionic surfactants available from Growforge; Siliphos SW7, Yucca and SurfAct.
Ionic Surfactants: Ionic surfactants are chemical compounds that contain both hydrophobic (water-repelling) and hydrophilic (water-attracting) regions, and have an overall charge due to the presence of an ionic group. The ionic group can be either positively charged (cationic surfactants) or negatively charged (anionic surfactants), depending on the specific structure of the molecule. The charge of the ionic group affects the behavior of the surfactant molecule in water, as well as its interactions with other charged particles such as soil particles or plant surfaces. Ionic surfactants are commonly used in a variety of turf wetting agents. Their ability to lower the surface tension of water and enhance its ability to penetrate soils and other materials makes them particularly useful in agricultural applications such as turf management and crop production. OMEX ionic surfactants available from Growforge; TPA and Sophtner95.
Humectant: A humectant is a substance that has the ability to attract and retain moisture. In other words, humectants are compounds that can absorb water from the environment and hold onto it. Humectants are commonly used in the agricultural industry, humectants are also used to improve water retention in soils and reduce water stress in plants. OMEX humectants available from Growforge; TPA, Organohume and SurfAct.
In conclusion, wetting agents are an essential component of turf management, as they help to improve the distribution and retention of water in soil, making it more accessible to plant roots. The different types of wetting agents, including non-ionic surfactants, ionic surfactants, and humectants, each have their unique properties and benefits. By understanding the different types of wetting agents and their applications, turf professionals can make informed decisions about which products to use and how to optimize their effectiveness. As the turf industry continues to evolve, the use of wetting agents is likely to become even more critical in achieving optimal turf health and performance. Contact Growforge for assistance when choosing which wetting agent is the right choice for your property.
