Why we aerify greens

Thus, performing aeration when the weather favors turf growth leads to quicker recovery. Additionally, aeration is stressful on plants.

If aeration is conducted on already stressed turf, the result could be disastrous. The range of ideal weather varies depending on the desired turf species. In other words, if your course is promoting bentgrass, mid-August to early September is a good time to aerate. The warm days and cool nights of early fall favor bentgrass growth, placing the competitive advantage on bentgrass over Poa annua.

Conversely, if the desired turf is Poa annua, core aeration can be performed later in the fall. There is less chance for stress on Poa annua in late summer and early fall. Unfortunately, the golf schedule often dictates aeration timing more than the weather which could compromise proper aeration timing.

If aerated greens are the root canal of course management, the ProCore is Novocain. Tines act like teeth, grinding through the ground to create holes in the turf. Those pesky holes are critical to the overall aeration process because they help with soil compaction. When soil compacts, it restricts grass from receiving water and oxygen. Tine heads are what connect the tines to the motor.

After the machine has been started up, the tine heads rotate similarly to the pistons in a propulsion engine, cycling through as the tines strike the ground. After all, the last person who wants to disrupt the smoothness of the putting greens they work so hard to maintain is the superintendent. Golfers often ask, "Why is aeration needed so often?

Aeration primarily is performed to control organic matter - i. If organic matter becomes too thick, it acts like a sponge and holds water at the surface after rain or irrigation. Excessive organic matter also inhibits root growth, reduces oxygen levels in the soil, encourages disease and eventually can lead to turf failure. Furthermore, excessive organic matter creates soft surfaces prone to ball marks, foot printing and inconsistent playing conditions. Aeration and topdressing are the most effective ways to control organic matter and maintain smooth, firm putting surfaces.