Behind the Greens

Jeremy Turton

Golf Course Superintendent

Golf course greens aerification is a crucial maintenance practice in golf course management. It involves perforating the turf with small holes to alleviate soil compaction and promote healthy root growth. The process allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil more effectively, improving overall turf health.

There are various methods of aerification, including hollow tining, solid tining, and slicing. Each method has its benefits and is chosen based on factors such as soil type, grass species, and the desired level of disruption to play.

Aerification typically occurs during periods of active growth to minimize stress on the turf. However, it can temporarily affect the playing surface, causing disruption to ball roll and surface smoothness. Golf course superintendents carefully plan aerification schedules to minimize disruption to golfers while ensuring the long-term health and quality of the greens.

After aerification, golf course maintenance crews often topdress the greens with sand to fill the aerification holes and smooth the surface. This helps promote faster recovery and maintains consistent playing conditions.

Overall, aerification is a vital aspect of golf course maintenance that contributes to healthy, resilient turf and optimal playing conditions for golfers.