With the dog days of summer quickly approaching, conditioning the golf course to handle the added stress is our main focus moving forward. One of the key practices we utilize is a type of aerification we call "venting". Using a tine called a bayonet tine, we are creating openings in the surface that primarily improve gas exchange. Other benefits include better water penetration, compaction relief, and thatch reduction. Beginning in June, we will vent the greens monthly through August. After a rolling, the slits are still visible, although there is no impact on ball roll.
We are using a new machine that we just purchased last week. Our previous aerifier lasted 14 years, so as you can imagine, we were excited to use the new machine. The speed and precision of the new unit is off the charts compared to our old aerifier.
This week we are also verticutting the Zoysia Fairways. One of the downsides to Zoysia is the amount of thatch the plant produces. Verticutting helps to remove the decaying plant material, creating a firmer, healthier playing surface. Once the debris has been removed and the fairway is mowed, very little signs of the process will be visible. If all goes well, we should be finished in a few days.
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