Scienctific terminology useful for Grounds Management

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A range of interconnected components within a soil which creates a living system Micro-organisms, plant roots, soil minerals, water, temperature, air and nutrients are all essential components of a soil ecosystem.

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Another name for Soil Organisms.

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There are a range of factors that can influence the rate at decomposition of organic matter, and many of these also influence the effect of the included and other factors. 1. Temperature is a key factor as this influences the activity of the micro-organisms which break down organic matter. Warmer temperatures (35°C compared with 25°C), especially when adequate moisture levels are present, can result in very rapid decomposition occurring. 2. Moisture availability is another key factor, with increasing moisture (up to about 90% water-filled pore space), but not at a waterlogging stage (as no o

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A similar group of individuals, for example plants which interbreed with each other and produce offspring. Species can only, generally, interbreed with their own species. In limited cases where closely related species interbreed the resultant offspring are called hybrids. The species is, however, the standard unit of classification for identifying plants, or other organisms. For plants to be included within a species individual plants have to possess many characteristics which are the same. However, it is the discontinuity of similarities which distinguish species from each other. Essential

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The second part of a species name which comes after the genus name. For example, rubra is the specific epithet element of the name Festuca rubra.

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A reproductive cell of numerous organisms, including fungi, bacteria, algae, moss, ferns and conifers.

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The selective and specifically targeted treatment of a pesticide to an individual plant (for example, a selective herbicide being applied to a single broad leaved weed) or to a small area of turf which has a very localised condition which needs treating.

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A dye which is added to a pesticide solution in a spray tank to help show where a pesticide has been sprayed, aiming to reduce misapplication and increase efficiency of the spraying operation.

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The total volume of a mixture used for spraying, which is the amount of the pesticide concentrate and the amount of water for the area being sprayed.

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A plant organ, such as a stolon or rhizome, which is planted in a prepared seed bed to help establish a new sward. The use of sprigs is common for the vegetative establishment of many warm season grasses.