Grass Recovery Plan Activated at El Deleite Stadium in Aranjuez: A Joint Initiative by Real Sitio and Villa de Aranjuez City Council

El Deleite Stadium Undergoes Extensive Turf Recovery Plan

aranjuez, Spain – October 21, 2025 – The El Deleite Stadium football field is currently undergoing a detailed turf recovery process, a planned initiative designed to guarantee peak performance conditions for the long term. The extensive renovation, initiated following the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season, responds to the natural wear and tear experienced from consistent and rigorous use of the facilities.

Following the close of the recent season, the Aranjuez City Council’s Sports Delegation commissioned a thorough agronomic assessment conducted by a certified Agricultural Technical Engineer. The findings highlighted two primary issues: meaningful soil compaction stemming from frequent training sessions, matches, and other athletic events, and the proliferation of unwanted, invasive plant species common during the summer months. These findings necessitated the implementation of the present recovery plan.

Addressing Soil Compaction and Invasive Species

The ongoing work is a direct result of the technical analysis, and the current appearance of the field, including areas of yellowing grass, aligns with the expected natural process of eliminating the invasive plants as part of the renewal strategy. This situation,rather than indicating neglect,was anticipated,evaluated,and directly addressed through the meticulously planned Turf Recovery Plan,which will extend through spring 2026.

The overarching goals of the plan are twofold: firstly, to restore the soil’s porosity-a critical factor for proper aeration and healthy root development. Secondly, to eradicate the pervasive Digitaria grass and facilitate the reseeding of a high-quality sports turf.

Key Actions Underway

Several key steps have already been completed or are currently in progress to achieve these objectives:

Action	Timeline
Deep scarification & Aeration	August 2025
Phytosanitary Control, Fertilization & Digitaria Elimination	Ongoing
Reseeding	November 2025
Topdressing with Double Silica & Deep Scarifying	November 2025
Light Scarifying	April 2026

The initial actions included deep scarification and aeration of the soil, completed in August. Currently, an annual plan for phytosanitary control is underway, alongside fertilization and the focused elimination of Digitaria. Reseeding is scheduled for november 2025, timed with the invasive plant’s vegetative shutdown, minimizing competition with the new grass. this late sowing method typically requires eight weeks for complete establishment, with noticeable improvements expected within three to four weeks, contingent on prevailing whether conditions.

Did You Know? Proper soil aeration is crucial for the health of any athletic field, allowing roots to access oxygen and nutrients more effectively.

Pro Tip: Regular monitoring of soil pH and nutrient levels is essential for maintaining a thriving turf.

The final phases encompass topdressing with double silica and another round of deep scarifying in November 2025,followed by light scarifying in April 2026,completing the land’s final conditioning.

The Importance of Turf Management in Modern Sports

Maintaining high-quality turf is paramount to athlete safety and performance. Modern turf management goes beyond simply cutting the grass-it’s a science involving soil composition, nutrient management, and pest control. investing in proper turf maintenance can substantially reduce the risk of injuries and enhance the playing experiance. According to the Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA), consistent maintenance can extend the lifespan of a field by up to 50% [STMA Website].

Frequently Asked Questions About the Turf Recovery

• What is the primary goal of the El Deleite Stadium turf recovery plan? The main goal is to restore the quality of the field’s natural grass, addressing soil compaction and eradicating invasive plant species to ensure optimal playing conditions.
• Why does the grass currently appear yellowing on the field? The yellowing is part of the planned process of eliminating invasive plants and is a natural consequence of the recovery plan.
• When is the reseeding of the field scheduled to take place? Reseeding is scheduled for November 2025, which is the agronomically ideal time to minimize competition from invasive plants.
• How long will it take to see visible improvements after the reseeding? Visible improvements are expected within 3-4 weeks of reseeding,depending on weather conditions,with full establishment taking around eight weeks.
• What caused the need for the turf recovery plan at El Deleite Stadium? The recovery plan was initiated due to soil compaction caused by intensive use and the presence of invasive plant species.

What are your thoughts on the investment in maintaining high-quality sports facilities? Do you think these upgrades improve the overall sporting experience?

Share your opinions in the comments below!

What potential long-term cost savings are anticipated from investing in a hybrid grass system compared to maintaining a customary grass pitch at El Deleite Stadium?

Addressing the Pitch Concerns: A Collaborative Approach to Stadium Renovation

The El Deleite Stadium in Aranjuez, home to Real Sitio, is undergoing a significant grass recovery plan, initiated through a collaborative effort between the club and the Villa de Aranjuez City Council. This proactive measure addresses growing concerns regarding the playing surface’s condition, aiming to ensure optimal conditions for players and enhance the overall spectator experience.The project, announced on October 20th, 2025, signifies a commitment to sports field maintenance and stadium improvements within the community.

The Scope of the El Deleite Stadium Grass Recovery

The recovery plan isn’t simply patching up worn areas; it’s a comprehensive overhaul. Key components include:

* Complete Turf Removal: The existing grass will be entirely removed to address underlying issues affecting growth and stability. This is a crucial step in ensuring a fresh start for the pitch.

* Subsoil Preparation: Detailed analysis of the subsoil will be conducted to identify and rectify drainage problems and compaction. This involves aeration, topdressing with appropriate materials, and leveling to create an ideal root zone.

* Hybrid Grass System Installation: Real Sitio and the City Council have opted for a state-of-the-art hybrid grass system. This combines the natural benefits of real turf with the reinforcement of synthetic fibers, increasing durability and resilience. This technology is increasingly popular in professional football pitches globally.

* Advanced Irrigation System Upgrade: A new, technologically advanced irrigation system will be installed to provide precise and efficient watering, crucial for consistent grass growth and minimizing water waste.

* Reinforcement with Fiber Technology: The integration of synthetic fibers within the natural turf provides enhanced stability, reducing divots and improving the pitch’s ability to withstand heavy use.

Why a Hybrid Grass System? Benefits & Considerations

Choosing a hybrid turf system represents a significant investment in the long-term health of the El Deleite pitch. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages:

* Increased durability: The synthetic fibers act as a reinforcing network, making the grass more resistant to wear and tear, particularly during high-intensity matches and training sessions.

* Improved Stability: Reduced risk of divots and uneven surfaces, enhancing player safety and ball control.

* Enhanced Drainage: Hybrid systems often incorporate improved drainage capabilities, preventing waterlogging and maintaining a firm playing surface.

* Faster Recovery: The reinforced root zone allows the grass to recover more quickly from damage.

* Reduced Maintenance Costs (Long-Term): While the initial investment is higher,the increased durability and reduced need for repairs can lead to lower maintenance costs over time.

Though, it’s vital to note that hybrid systems require specialized maintenance and expertise to ensure optimal performance. Regular monitoring and care are essential.

Timeline and disruption to Real Sitio’s Schedule

The stadium pitch renovation is scheduled to be completed by November 30th, 2025. This necessitates temporary relocation of Real Sitio’s home matches.

* Phase 1 (Oct 21st – Oct 31st): Turf removal and subsoil preparation.

* Phase 2 (Nov 1st – Nov 15th): Irrigation system installation and fiber reinforcement.

* Phase 3 (Nov 16th – Nov 30th): New turf installation and final adjustments.

Real Sitio has confirmed that home fixtures scheduled during this period will be played at the Estadio Municipal de Getafe, minimizing disruption for fans. The club is working closely with the City council to ensure a smooth transition and timely completion of the project. Match relocation details will be communicated through official club channels.

The Role of the Villa de Aranjuez City Council: Investment in Local Sport

The Villa de Aranjuez City Council’s contribution to this project underscores its commitment to supporting local sports infrastructure. The council is providing significant financial backing and logistical support, recognizing the importance of a high-quality playing surface for Real Sitio and the broader sporting community. This investment aligns with the council’s broader strategy to promote community sports facilities and attract sporting events to Aranjuez. The council views the improved stadium as a potential venue for regional and national-level competitions, boosting tourism and economic activity.

Long-Term Pitch Management: Best Practices for Sustainability

Beyond the initial recovery plan, a sustainable pitch management strategy is crucial for maintaining the El Deleite Stadium’s playing surface in optimal condition. This includes:

1. Regular Aeration: To improve soil structure and drainage.
2. Nutrient Management: Applying appropriate fertilizers to promote healthy grass growth.
3. Pest and Disease Control: Implementing preventative measures to protect the turf from damage.
4. Wear and Tear Monitoring: Regularly assessing the pitch’s condition and addressing any areas of concern promptly.
5. Strategic Rotation: Implementing a rotation schedule for training and matches to minimize stress on the grass.
6. **Professional Grounds