Sunday, September 22, 2013

Cultural Practices


Why We Aerate:
We aerate to alleviate compaction, facilitate oxygen and nutrient exchange, improve drainage and to control organic matter levels. Aeration is varied in method. Hole size, hole depth and spacing are determined depending on the effect desired. Aeration is a very important tool in turf management even though it is frowned upon by golfers and staff alike. It can be disruptive and is labour intensive if a core is removed. However, the long term positive benefits to the health of our turfgrass

Why We Topdress:
Light frequent topdressing of greens has several important functions. Putting surfaces are kept smoother, drainage can be modified and organic matter levels are controlled by the abrasive nature of the sand. In conjunction with microorganisms in the soil profile organic matter levels can then be maintained within a certain percentage to ensure a healthier, firmer putting surface. Very low mowing heights are determined in part by controlling organic matter.

Why We Verticut:
Instead of a scissor like action these specific cutting heads cut down into the profile and help remove excess turf and organic matter. The depth is adjustable and results can be varied. The turf is then mowed as usual to remove the material.