Technical
which is determined by the level of iron oxide in the sand - brown sand has approximately 1.5-2.5% iron whilst white has less than 0.3%. That said, colour is really only important from the aesthetic point of view. Most golf courses, for example, look to blend sand into the landscape, so often choose the light-brown option because of its natural appearance. Although inland courses find white or brown agreeable, with the former giving them a pleasant contrast, white sand has developed something of a reputation, which some find disconcerting. This disrepute is founded on the idea that white sand reflects sunlight and can, therefore, burn the grass. Its angular shape is also charged with nipping at the grass. The truth is, white sand has a number of admirable qualities, particularly in bunkers, where the larger particles and clusters of particles keep the sand in the bunker rather than blowing across the course. Despite these virtues, there are some who would find it difficult to tolerate white sand, particularly on links courses. The tradition of maintaining a natural look often precludes the use of white sand, despite its characteristics being well suited for the extreme weather conditions found on these courses. It would appear that brown is the only option.
Happily, this isn’t the case. Combining
brown and white sand in a special blend offers the best of both worlds - the drainage capabilities and natural look of brown sand, joined by the ‘stayability’ of white. This apparent match made in heaven satisfies a number of requirements and would seem to be the perfect solution, if it wasn’t for a small caveat.
Whilst the two sands possess different qualities separately, and an alluring mix when combined, the method of uniting the sands will dictate the potency of the blend. For instance, combining two
stockpiles of sand using a loading shovel will only create a segregated mixture that is inconsistent and unpredictable. Once applied to a green, for instance, these irregularities will promote variances in drainage. Areas with too much white sand will retain water, whilst areas dominated by brown will drain more quickly. Instead of a uniform playing surface, you will have a patchwork quilt of growth and decline. Reassuringly, sand blends produced at industrial sites are created using production processes that begin with white rock being crushed and brown sand being added via a separate feed hopper. The two sands are washed together and slowly become one as they pass through a series of processes designed to produce a consistent end result.
“Going large is perhaps not the best option.
Unfortunately, going small can be equally devastating”
Whether you opt for a brown sand, a white sand, or a combination of the two, it is important to recognise the significance of this decision. After all, sand is the lifeblood of sports turfs. It can encourage fine grasses, improve the quality of the sward and dilute organic content. The apparently simple act of applying it can do so much. But, selecting the right sand is an involved process. It rests upon properly identifying the composition of your own sand, and then matching it to an appropriate sand product. Size, shape and colour all have their part to play, as does the condition of the turf and your ambitions for it.
Sand can play a central role in
producing high-quality turf, so choose wisely.
Based in Ayrshire, Hugh King & Co has been supplying sand for over 150 years. The family owned company is run by Graeme King and supplies over 100 golf courses with high-quality sand for topdressing, bunkers and soil amelioration. It also supplies sand to a variety of winter sports pitches. For more information, please visit
www.golf.hughking.co.uk
114 PC FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012
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