Fairway Aerification

Attached are a couple of short videos showing our deep tine aerification on fairways.  The second video indicates the depth we are reaching with the solid tine.

Deep tine aerification is another cultural practice we utilize that goes almost unnoticed.  With this practice we are using 1/2" solid tines, aerifying to a depth of around 9-10".  As the tine reaches the maximum depth, there is a kicking action which creates multiple fractures in the soil profile.  Fortunately, from the surface, all that is visually apparent are 1/2" wide holes.

This practice assists with relieving compaction, increasing air exchange within the profile, speeding up breakdown of thatch, and improving percolation rates into the soil.  As with all of our cultural practices the goal is to improve plant health as well as playability.

We recently received results from soil testing on the fairways.  The results of the test indicate higher organic matter amounts in the upper portion of the profile.  In response to the tests, we will be aerifying fairways more frequently throughout the season to reduce our percentage of organic matter.