UPDATED: Depth of Infield Conditioners

Infield conditioners are a critical tool for effective infield maintenance. How deep should the conditioner be on a given field? The answer depends on the level of play as well as the base soil.

Photo 1 shows an infield that has a mix with a high silt to clay ratio (SCR - 2.5). The field also hosts high school and recreational play. In this example, a greater amount of conditioner should be used. Approximately 1/4 inch of conditioner is the recommended depth for the surface.

Photo 2 shows an infield with an engineered soil with a balanced silt to clay ratio (SCR -1.0) The field hosts professional play. In this example, a lesser amount of conditioner should be used. Approximately 1/8 inch of conditioner is the recommended depth for the surface.

Bottom line, in the instances below a greater depth of conditioner should be considered:

• Infield mixes with a high SCR

• Difficulty in keeping moisture in an infield (recreational play)

• Infield mixes with a great amount of fine and very fine sand

• Infield mixes that tend to become too firm in dry weather

The goal is to create a top 1/4 inch that is managed to allow for cleat-in and cleat-out play. 

Play on!
--Jamie
@JamieMehringer

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