Our first aerification is here for 2021. We will be deep tining greens with a .25″ solid tine at a depth of 10″. We will follow with a core diameter of .40″ hollow tine at a depth of 5″ which equates to roughly 72 holes per a square foot. Here is a list of 5 things to know that might help understand the importance of this process.
- We aerate to improve the putting greens surface
Putting greens receive more traffic than any other playing surface. The aeration process helps relieve compaction caused by rounds of golf, mowing equipment, sprayers etc. it also helps create a firm and smooth playing surface.
2. Thatch
Thatch is defined as a layer of dead and living stems, leaves, and roots that accumulates between the soil surface and green vegetation that you putt on. If thatch is not removed by aerification, vertical mowing or diluted by topdressing it can create a sponge like surface that creates soft playing conditions and higher risk of disease. We also combat Thatch with weekly topdressing during the growing season.
3. Sand, sand and more sand
Heavy application of topdressing following aerification helps fill in the holes from the removal of cores. Sand creates channels for water and air movement, dilutes organic matter and helps smooth the playing surface.
4. It’s not as bad as you think
We will roughly removing and creating close to 6,500,000 HOLES!! 72 holes per a square foot, but in the grand scheme of things we will only be affecting 8% of surface area. Volume removed will be right at 20.94 cu-ft per 1000 sq/ft.
5. Timing is everything
It is very common for us to aerate during peak season, and when the bentgrass is at its best. Our goal is to aerify when the plant is healthy and actively growing, this will help us recover quicker and minimize damage. Aerating at other times may be more convenient for golf schedule, but it extends recovery times.
We will be closed this Monday and Tuesday, March 8th & 9th due to our first aerification process. Our goal is to recover in 14 days, weather permitting. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. If you have any questions feel free to reach out to me.
Thanks,
Tyler Ingram & the GCM staff