Books on a budget

I often get asked about relevant books for study. There is a lot of turf information on the net, especially if you subscribe to the likes of the STRI sub club, and pitchcare.com etc. However, I’m of the opinion that the concise (and not so concise) information you need for study can not be beaten by the good ‘ol books that are available. This is by no mean a definitive list and I’m not precious about it – there are loads of books with great turf information I’ve probably never seen. This is a list I’ve had the best success with (and good value for money), hopefully by putting them into levels it can be helpful in directing your funds….

LEVEL 2
Hessayon, D.G The Lawn Expert Book. Not sports turf, although the information on grasses and weeds is well worth it for less than £10. Similarly, the Tree and Shrub Expert is a worthy companion

Arthur, J. Practical Greenkeeping (revised). What can I say….bible. I’ve found it works well in balance with scientific literature, like the Adams and Gibbs Natural Turf for ….

Lawson, D. Fertilisers For Turf. Excellent value for money, with some ‘food’ for thought on the subject and includes how to calculate your nutrient inputs.

BIGGA. On Course Field Guides. Specially aimed at level 2. I think if you’re a member it’s free. Some companies do a similar thing, like RT and DLF Trifolium.

Hubbard, C.E. Grasses. A true spotters guide. Pictures in B&W, but excellent detail and the descriptions are the best I’ve ever read.

R,Mann. Turfgrass Diseases and Associated Disorders. I find these STRI publications great value for money. Its independent, it focus on British diseases and disorders and it’s very thorough for level 2, oh, and it has colour pictures.

LEVEL 3
As above and the following:

Turgeon, A.J. Turfgrass Management. I’m not saying don’t get this if your doing level 2, however the detail is aimed at higher levels. Almost like a concise version of the ‘Turfgrass: Science and Nature’ by Beard. My edition has a quiz at the end of each chapter- if you’re really bored at snap time.

Adams W.A & Gibbs R.J Natural Turf For Sport & Amenity. A bit of an investment, but links excellently with level 3 qualifications and even into the Foundation Degree. Estimating resources, construction methods and maintenance for various sports turf surfaces are analysed at depth.

Watkins, J.A. Turf Irrigation Manual: The Complete Guide to Turf and Landscape Irrigation Systems. Very comprehensive, includes principles, theories, practices and calculations.


A very rough estimate, the ball park figure to obtain the above library is around £130-150. I see them as a long term investment that can continue to develop professionalism and help towards achieving the qualifications- possibly beyond level 3?!



Note – Learning resources and workbooks should ALWAYS be included in your education as standard practice by the training/college provider.

JK