Golf Courses

Hummel & Co. offers a full range of soil physical testing. All tests include an interpretation at no additional cost to you. Below is a guide for selecting the testing services to suit your needs. See our current price list for pricing information, normal turnaround time, and quantities required.

Particle Size Analysis (ASTM F1632, D422, D4972)

Sands or mixes used for greens and tees construction, and greens and fairway topdressing must meet certain particle size specifications to perform properly. This test will determine the percentage of sand, silt, and clay in a mix, as well as the sand size distribution. The pH is included, as are the sand particle shape, the coefficient of uniformity, gradation index, and the D85. The D85 is needed to determine compatibility or bridging with gravel.

This test is also used to determine the texture of finer textured soils. Recommendations for soil improvement are often offered if we know the intended use of the soil.

Organic Matter Content of Greens, Soils, and Mixes (ASTM F1647, method A)

Determination of organic matter by weight of root zone mixes and soils. This test is also used frequently to determine the organic matter content in the surfaces of greens.

Complete Physical Analysis of Root Zone Mixes (ASTM F1815, F1632, F1647, method A)

Regardless of your construction method, you need to know that the root zone mix is going to have physical properties desirable for turfgrass growth. A Complete Physical Analysis tests properties such as infiltration rate, total porosity, aeration and capillary pore space, particle density, and bulk density. The results are usually compared to the USGA Recommendations, California recommendations, or an architect’s specification for these properties. Our complete physical analysis also includes a particle size analysis, pH, and organic matter content.

This test is designed for assessing new sand based mixes. It is not suited for fine textured soils. Also, it is not the best method for assessing problem greens. See Soil Physical Diagnosis of Undisturbed Cores for a more appropriate method.

Mix Design/Complete Physical Analysis (ASTM F1815, F1632, F1647, method A)

Using the sand, organic matter source, and perhaps soil of your choice, we will develop and test different mixes to define the optimum mix ratio. A recipe for reproducing the mix is provided. A complete physical analysis is performed on each mix, to include particle size, organic matter content, pH, infiltration rate, total porosity, aeration and capillary porosity, bulk density, and particle density.

Complete Physical Analysis with Standard Water Release Curve (ASTM F1815, modified for water release)

This test goes a step beyond the standard USGA Physical Analysis. We not only determine the water holding capacity of a root zone mix, but we also determine how much water is available to the plant. This information may be valuable when an organic matter source of unknown quality or an inorganic amendment is used.

Complete Physical Analysis with Low Tension Water Release Curve (ASTM F1815, modified for water release)

In areas subject to high rainfall events or where other conditions warrant it, fairways are sometimes plated with sand. Complete physical analyses, including a particle size analysis are needed to determine the suitability of sands for this purpose. A water release curve is performed to determine the minimum depth for that specific sand. We also will determine the capacity of the fairway sand to remove water for specific drain spacing. The cost does not include the particle size analysis.

Quality Control Testing (Hummel & Co SOP, ASTM F1647, method A, F1815)

This is a quick test to determine if a root zone mix meets or conforms to an original approved mix. The test includes a particle size distribution and organic matter content of the mix. Results are often provided the same day if the sample is received before noon. Infiltration rates are offered as an option with the entire test being turned around within 24 hours in most cases.

Gravel Particle Size Analysis (ASTM C136)

A particle size distribution of the under drainage gravel is needed to make sure that the gravel will drain, and to make sure that it is sized properly to prevent root zone mix migration into the gravel. The D15 and coefficient of uniformity are reported.

The LA Abrasion (ASTM C-131) test is recommended where the stability of the gravel is in question.

The Sulfate Soundness (ASTM C-88) test is sometimes required in specifications and evaluates the potential for gravel and sand degradation from freeze - thaw cycles.

Organic Matter Quality (ASTM D4531, D2976, D2980, D2974, Hummel & Co SOP)

The organic matter in your sand based root zone mix plays an important role in the performance of the mix. It is recommended that any organic matter source of unknown origin or quality have this test performed. Included are percent organic matter, percent ash, pH, water holding capacity, density, and organic matter yield.

The maturity of a compost should be known before using it as a soil amendment. The Solvita Maturity Index is an indicator of compost maturity based on a test that determines carbon dioxide evolution and the presence of ammonia. We offer this quick and inexpensive test.

Sand Size Analysis (Hummel & Co. SOP, ASTM C136)

Routinely run as a part of our quality control testing, this is a quick, inexpensive test to determine if a sand or mix is suitable for considering for a sand based root zone mix.

Topsoil Quality Test (ASTM F1632, F1647 method A)

The topsoil quality test includes particle size, organic matter content, and nutrient analysis. Interpretations will include comments on the quality of the soil and recommendations for improvement.

Bunker Sand Analysis (ASTM F1632, F1815, Hummel & Co. SOP)

The performance of bunker sands depends on several factors, including sand particle size and shape. The bunker sand analysis is a thorough series of tests to investigate these. The tests include particle size analysis, sand particle shape, crusting, color, infiltration rate, and a penetrometer test to determine the sands potential to produce buried balls.

Soil Physical Diagnosis Undisturbed Cores (ASTM F1815 modified for undisturbed cores, ASTM F1632, F1647, method A)

Most golf course superintendents know the chemical status of their soils. But do you know the physical properties? No doubt the physical properties of a soil or sand based mix will influence the performance of the turf. We offer full physical testing on undisturbed soil cores that you submit. This testing offers an accurate picture of the soil physical properties, as they actually exist in the green or sports field. Some common uses of this testing include:

Where greens, tees, or fairways are not performing to expectations, we can determine if the problem is physical. In the case of new greens, we can tell if they were built to specification, or if the problem is due to maintenance during grow-in. Where a superintendent or greens committee knows that the physical condition of the green is poor and needs to be replaced, we may be able to provide documentation that this is indeed the case. We rely on our extensive soils and turfgrass experience to offer you with all your options. Are you considering regrassing your greens, or do you need to replace the entire green? A physical test on undisturbed cores can provide you with the information to make the right decision.

Diagnostic testing by Hummel & Co. Inc. is a very thorough test. Reports include an interpretation of the data and recommendations.

It is very important that we receive good samples. Please read the diagnostic testing sampling instructions carefully. Failure to provide us with the good samples may require your resubmission of the samples and delay getting results back to you.

Consulting

We are available for consulting in many different capacities, including construction specification writing and review (with designers), forensics work, soil fertility programming, and others. Site visits are available. Contact us for a fee proposal and availability.

Hummel & Co. offers several individual tests. See our price list for the complete list of services.