ple extracted by Mehlich-3 to show both the 'ideal' base cation saturation (5% K) and a CEC of 2 cmol/kg contains approximately 78 lbs exchangeable K/acre. While BCSR is considered a "relatively suitable" calibration technique in fields comprised of high-CEC soil, our greatest challenges currently relate to effective and efficient nu- trition of sand-based (low-CEC) turfgrass systems. In summary, the SLAN (sufficiency level of available nutrients)
approach is your boy for effective interpretation of turfgrass sand/soil fertility and responsible fertilizer recommendation. There is no debate regarding claims of soil physical property enhancement via BCSR recommendations. Of all the techniques available for maintaining porosity in highly-trafficked mineral soils, none invokes more laughter among turfgrass scientists than the "fertilizing to ob- tain a balanced base saturation" approach. Why not both SLAN and BCSR together? Because there are al-
ready too many unimaginative fence-sitters proclaiming hybrid har- mony. Furthermore, the hybrid model deviates from the concepts originally proposed! The above-mentioned scientists, who spent significant portions of (if not all) their careers developing these mutually exclusive methods, just wouldn't approve. Besides, do you know how labs using BCSR for Ca, Mg, and K make P recommen- dations? SLAN . . . because it works. ■
Max Schlossberg, PhD, is associate professor, turfgrass nutrition & soil fertility, for Penn State's Center for Turfgrass Science.
second time because they are responsible and understand their needs to produce a quality product every single day. As we have been focusing on in our "Soil Profile" series in SportsTurf, like the Wellesley article featuring the successes of turf manager John Ponti, base saturation a good tool to start with to help create the environment for a stronger chemical, physical and ultimately biological profile to help better mobilize nutrients that do become available to the plant. So with this level of success and a thorough program that does focus on both BCSR and SLAN, where is the controversy? ■
Joel Simmons is president of EarthWorks Natural Organic
Products and Soil First Consulting. He has a master's degree from Penn State, is a former PSU extension agent, and former soils instructor for Rutgers University.
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