Greens Aerification March 10-12, 2014

It is the time of year across the country when golfers are hearing their favorite word, "Aerification".  I am always asked by golfers, "Why do you aerify perfectly good greens?"  The answer can be quite involved as there are many benefits associated with the agronomic practice of core aerification.  Here are just a few reasons why aerification is so important to putting greens:

1. Oxygen:  A turf grass plant needs oxygen just like we do.  Without it, it simply can not survive.  Aerating allows us to supply oxygen to the root system.  When aerating is complete, we then topdress with sand to fill the open holes.  Filling the holes with course sand allows oxygen to travel through the pore space which is created between sand particles.

2.  Soil Compaction:  Throughout the golfing season the soil structure on putting greens becomes compacted from mowing, rolling, heavy equipment, and foot traffic.  Compaction can cause the pore space between sand particles to be compromised, therefore significantly reducing oxygen transfer.  Imagine having to breathe through a cocktail straw.

3.  Thatch removal:  Thatch is an organic layer that is formed by dead stems, leaves and roots decomposing.  Like everything else in life its good in moderation.  An excessive thatch layer can result in disease, insects, and soft greens.