ARIGNA, CO. ROSCOMMON, IRELAND – 10 July 2025 – Arigna Group is pleased to announce a strategic research collaboration with The Ohio State University (OSU) to explore the use of biochar in managed turfgrass systems. The project, Proj 101-25: Biochar Evaluation in Turfgrass, is designed to assess the potential of biochar to enhance sod harvesting timelines and improve the growth and development of putting greens.
The study will combine Arigna Group’s expertise in sustainable biochar solutions with Ohio State’s turfgrass science program, contributing valuable insights to the future of eco-friendly turf management.
Project Objectives:
- Evaluate whether biochar incorporation can accelerate sod maturity and harvesting.
- Determine the effects of biochar on the establishment and performance of high maintenance turfgrass, such as putting greens.
Research Design:
Two distinct research sites in Ohio will host the field trials:
- Sod Production Trials – Medina Turf, SP25 (Tall Fescue):
Approximately 1,000 ft² of sod will be allocated to five treatments, replicated four times. - Putting Green Trials – OSU Wooster (Creeping Bentgrass ‘Pure Distinction’):
A professional-grade putting green, mown daily at 0.125”, will be treated using the same five treatments applied via topdressing after aeration.
Performance indicators will include turf colour, soil moisture levels (via probe), NDVI, and the rate of aeration hole closure.
Timeline:
- Project Start: June 2025
- Final Report: December 2025
Dr. Ed Nangle, project lead at The Ohio State University, noted:
“Our collaboration with Arigna Group allows us to rigorously test sustainable amendments like biochar in real-world turf settings. We’re excited about the potential this holds for the turfgrass industry.”
Brendan Layden, Managing Director of Arigna Group, commented:
“This relationship supports our climate-smart land management mission. By investigating biochar’s practical benefits in turfgrass systems, we aim to offer solutions that balance performance with sustainability.”
This research initiative strengthens Arigna Group’s position at the forefront of sustainable agriculture and turf management innovation.
About Arigna Group:
Arigna Group is an Irish-based environmental solutions provider specialising in carbon-based soil amendments and circular economy innovations. As the proud owner of Europe’s largest biochar plant, Arigna Group develops science-led technologies that support healthier soils and greener landscapes worldwide.
Media Enquiries:
Siobhán Hetherington
Marketing Manager, Arigna Group
Email: siobhan@arignafuels.ie
