In preparation for this year ’ s aerification season I wanted to include some information pertaining to some of the most common questions asked regarding the process . I have included an article written by the USGA Green Section Staff from their September 2019 issue titled ‘ Answers about Aeration .’
Putting green aeration is never popular . Understandably , golf course superintendents and USGA agronomists field many questions about aeration each year . Here are helpful answers to some of the most common questions about this necessary practice . Why do greens have to be aerated in the first place ?
Aeration provides a host of benefits for our hard-working putting surfaces . It helps to relieve the compaction that comes with intense golfer and maintenance traffic . Aeration also improves air and water movement through the soil , which yields healthier grass and more consistent playing conditions . Breaking up the layer of organic material that accumulates just below the putting surface – commonly referred to as thatch – is another important benefit . The end result is firmer , smoother and healthier greens .
Why do we always aerate when the greens are perfect ? It can be frustrating to see thousands of holes punched into perfectly good greens , but there are good reasons why aeration usually occurs when greens are at their best . Aeration is stressful for putting green turf . The more favorable the growing conditions are , the quicker the greens will recover . While aerating very late or very early in the year might seem less disruptive to the golf schedule , the longer recovery time and risk of added turf damage can actually lead to more disruption . Aeration timing may also depend on seasonal changes in staffing . Performing aeration when the staff is at full strength helps expedite the process and subsequent recovery , which means normal playing conditions return sooner .
How long is it going to take before the greens are back to normal ? The short answer is that it depends . Recovery time varies based on the grass species , size of aeration holes , turf health and the weather . A quick recovery is everyone ’ s preference , so superintendents take various steps to ensure the fastest possible turnaround . They choose a time for aeration when putting greens are typically healthy and growing well so they can recover more easily . Superintendents also typically
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