It is that time of year where most golf courses undergo their greens aerification process. It is a shame because as fall approaches and the golf course recovers from the summer, playing conditions become optimal.
Unfortunately this process is a necessary evil as we continue to not only protect our greens investment but improve the playing conditions for the future.
Aerification allows us the ability to alleviate soil compaction, increase air and water pore space, and continue to dilute unwanted organic matter in the top layer of our greens. All of these elements create better play-ability and a healthier green long term.
Our greens aerification process has been dramatically improved, compared to practices done in the past. There are no longer piles of dirt, or cores left on the greens surface. Every core is cleaned as we go and we will be sure to leave the greens ready for golf as we finish.
 |
| First the Green is heavily topdressed with sand. |
 |
| The aerifier then goes across the green, punching holes and pulling the soil cores. |
 |
| The device on the back of the machine pulls the cores allowing for easy cleanup. |
 |
| We are left with clean aerification holes and a green covered in sand. |
 |
| The sand is then brushed and the green is rolled, this is the finished product. |
Additional information about aeration can be found by copying and pasteing this link for the USGA website into your web browser.
http://www.usga.org/course-care/forethegolfer/why-do-golf-courses-aerate-so-much-.html
Thank you,
Golf Course Superintendent
Nick Marfise
