Solid Tine Greens Aeration

This Spring the Greens will not be core aerated as they have in the past. The organic layer and compaction have been controlled with the lack of play that the course has received this last season. I made the decision to use Solid Cross Tines which will allow for air and water movement within the rootzone. This method will allow for a quick healing time. Following the aeration, a light rate if Calcium Ammoniun Nitrate will be applied to stimulate early season growth.

#2 Green directly after using 1/2" Solid Cross Tines.

#2 Solid Cross Tine followed by 2 passes of a greens mower mounted with an out-front Brush attachment.

#2 Green with Mowing and Brushing complete. The  sand topdressing that was applied last fall has been worked in to the aeration holes.

Off Color Appearance of Tees

Above is an image of #1 Forward Tee which has a mottled appearance.  This has been common throughout the Tees this Spring. The dryer and warmer than usual winter was very difficult for the bentgrass, and although we watered throughout the winter, the early spring appearance is a bit off color. Below is a close-up image which does show green growth within the straw-colored dormant turf. Soil temperatures on this day were 46 Degrees with air temperatures near 60 at 2:00PM. Not quite warm enough to expect active growth. These Tees will be aerated by the end of the week, just in time for more snow!