Bentgrass not only requires sunlight and water to live and function, but also oxygen. During the summer stress months Carbon Dioxide levels in the root zone build, as a by product of respiration, and have to be released and exchanged for oxygen in order for bentgrass roots to operate efficiently.
Today we began venting the greens with bayonet knifes, which are basically knife blades attached to the aerifier that will allow better gas exchange of Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen in the root zone. This practice is minimum disruption to golfers and will heal in a couple days after the greens have had a chance to breath. Venting especially helps in the case of last night where we received an inch of rain. The open holes will allow the greens to dry faster and prevent conditions that breed diseases and algae.
Bayonet Tines on Aerifier
Aerification Pattern
Inside Look at Bayonet Hole