Tractor w/ Verti Drain aerifier

1" by 1" spacing

 Piercing the Surface

 

 

 

 

 

 

This morning we had the opportunity to "pencil tine" our putting surfaces.  This aerification process provides soil relief in the form of increased oxygen to our root system, reduction in compaction, water infiltration and enhance fertility uptake.  Although this machine creates a bit more surface disruption than our "needle tine" machine, there is little to no effect on playability. 

 

We started early this morning with three tractor-mounted Verti-Drain aerifiers equipped with 12 inch tines.  They leave a hole about the size of a pencil(3/16").  The surface holes will disappear in 3 to 4 days with routine maintenance however the underlying benefits will last 6 to 8 weeks.  We will continue to mow and roll to provide optimum playing conditions. 

 

This is just one more cultural practice that we employ to provide consistency throughout all of our putting surfaces. 

 

I would like to thank Erik and his staff for adjusting their schedule to allow us to complete this work in a timely fashion.  In all of my travels I have never worked with a more cooperative Head Professional.  Erik wants the best for Stonebridge and supports all my efforts on the golf course.

 

A special thanks to Mr. Kerr and his group.  They were first on the tee and did a wonderful job of playing at a comfortable pace and not pushing our maintenance operation.  

Rollers to provide smooth surface