M
any golf courses throughout the Mid-Atlantic and
Northeast region consider mid-August an indicator
that aeration is upon us. Depending on location,
desired turf species and golf calendar, core and solid-tine
aeration may already be taking place.
One question we often receive is: “Why does our
superintendent aerate when course conditions and weather
are perfect?”
This question is very perceptive, and explains why
aeration is performed when the weather and course are best.
Weather plays a large role in turf recovery. Thus, performing
aeration when the weather favors turf growth leads to
quicker recovery. Additionally, aeration is stressful on plants.
Performing aeration on healthy, “perfect” turf is critical. If
aeration is conducted on already stressed turf, the result
could be disastrous.
The range of ideal weather varies depending on
the desired turf species. In other words, if your course is
promoting bentgrass, mid-August to early September is
a good time to aerate. The warm days and cool nights of
early fall favor bentgrass growth, placing the competitive
advantage on bentgrass over Poa annua. Conversely, if the
desired turf is Poa annua, core aeration can be performed
later in the fall. There is less chance for stress on Poa annua
in late summer and early fall. Unfortunately, the golf schedule
often dictates aeration timing more than the weather which
could compromise proper aeration timing.
Another question we often receive is: “Why is so much
sand applied?” Superintendents realize aeration is never
popular. However, the benefits of aeration far outweigh the
potential problems if nothing is done. Superintendents also
understand that playability is a concern. Following aeration,
especially on greens, filling each of the aeration holes with
sand will promote quicker recovery and improve ball roll. There
is no denying that surface disruption occurs during aeration
and that greens will play differently following aeration.
However, effects on playability as a result of aeration can
be minimized if aeration channels are completely filled with
sand. Ultimately, applying enough topdressing sand to fill
aeration holes will result in a smoother post-aeration surface
that recovers quicker than a surface with open aeration holes.
Aeration is performe ]