Recently we have began our winter aerification process,
which entails punching 3/4” solid tines set to a depth of 8” on fairways and 1/2”
solid tines with a 6” depth on tees and approaches. Fairways will be punched
twice in opposite directions, while our more challenging fairways such as #13
will be punched three times.
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| 3/4" solid, 8" depth |
The deep solid tine aeration process allows us to open up
deep channels in the soil and breaks up compaction. This process releases gases
trapped in the ground and permits new available oxygen to the plants root zone.
By leaving open holes and improving available oxygen to the plants root zone, microbial
activity in the soil is increased. These microbes in the soil break down
nutrients such as Nitrogen and make them available to the turf plant.
These new deep channels will also persist into the spring,
creating a better environment for the grass plant to root in the upcoming
growing season. Deeper roots allows us to push the turf grass harder in the
summer by using less water; as a result increasing both firmness and ball roll.
In addition to creating gas exchange, these new fractures in
the soil improve water movement allowing the turf to drain quicker, both reducing
the opportunity for disease causing pathogens and improving playability by
allowing the turf to dry.
Once aerated, our
process finishes once we roll fairways in one direction, and mow them back in
another direction. The end result are deep channels with very little
disturbance to playability.
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| Rolled and mowed fairway |
