Introduction
In practice, plastic pipes or tubing is installed within the soil
layer of the natural turf, at specific depths as determined by the turf
experts. Heated fluid is circulated at a controlled temperature to
gently warm the grass roots, providing optimal root zone temperature.
Embedded soil temperature sensors guide the control systems to
modulate heat input, as needed. Large surfaces are often split into
multiple zones to respond to specific weather, wind and sun exposures.
These systems can extend the growing season of natural grass surfaces
for use in late autumn and winter, allowing the fields to recover
faster after use. It has been reported that warm soil is softer than
cold soil or artificial turf, and can even reduce player injuries.
Turf conditioning systems may also melt snow, keeping playing surfaces accessible, visible, and safer.
Similar systems are also used in certain greenhouse applications with bedding plants and other types of plants.