What are wetting agents or soil wetters?
A wetting agent is like a detergent or surfactant that attracts water to the soil’s surface, helping it to soak in.
Hydrophobic soils repel water which can lead to serious problems in the garden and in your lawn, this is where wetting agents come in.
Applying a wetting agent will help the water soak into the soil, making the water available to your lawn’s roots. It will help increase the soil’s ability to hold nutrients and help increase the drought tolerance of your lawn so it can stand up to the hot summer days.
What is hydrophobic soil?
Hydrophobic soils repel water and the water runs off the surface or simply pools and doesn’t absorb. It is a common problem, especially in sandy soils. However it can affect many soil types that have not received regular water or are compacted.
This can present as dry patches in your turf and it doesn’t necessarily cover the whole lawn.
What causes hydrophobic soil?
Hydrophobic soil is caused by the decomposition of organic matter, which leaves a wax like substance forming a coating on soil particles.
After long periods of dry weather, soils can become dehydrated and this is when the hydrophobic surface is exposed, which stops water from penetrating.
Using Wetting agents to fix hydrophobic lawn
Soil wetters are specifically designed to help hydrophobic lawns by enhancing the ability for them to absorb water.
Lawn Soaker is a ready to use soil wetting agent specifically developed for use on lawns. It will help break down the wax like substance that is caused by the decomposition of organic matter, allowing water to penetrate.
Regular use will ensure the soil re-wets and prevents further dry spots from forming. Apply as frequently as necessary to treat water repellent soil and improve drought resistance. Soaker is also ideal to use when there are high amounts of rainfall, aiding the water to be better absorbed into the profile.
Lawn Soaker comes in a 2L clip on ready to use bottle, treating up to 150m2.
