Is all this aerating working?

The answer visually comparing the greens from this season to last season would be yes but relying on the aesthetics of the greens alone could get us into trouble so we sample the greens to scientifically determine if we are making progress. The samples were taken from the 6th green in the rear section of the green where we experience thinning of the turf in the summer.

Green #6 is one of three USGA greens on a nine hole course that dates to 1896. The greens mix for the other two greens – which are not part of this report - was blended off site. Green #6’s sand and peat were mixed in the cavity with a rototiller. The comparison test data strongly suggests that the blending did not achieve an homogeneous mix.

This year’s test results found that the infiltration rate had increased from a sealed off 0.81 in./hr. to 6.69 in./hr. Air porosity similarly improved from 13.53% to 20.21%. Water porosity declined – a positive move – even though the amount of organic material in the top 2 inches increased substantially. 

Typically, an increase in organic matter equates to an increase in water retention.
The current hollow core program must be continued to reduce organic matter to more manageable levels. It is also needed to create consistency within the rhizosphere. Based on the comparison tests, we must expect that different areas will react differently based on having different properties. 

In simple terms we are making progress which will result in more consistent and healthy greens that can be maintained at a lower height of cut allowing for increased ball roll while maintaining a healthy plant.