aerified

Aerified refers to the process of making holes in a soil surface, typically a lawn or golf green. This is done to improve air circulation, water penetration, and nutrient absorption. The most common method involves using specialized equipment that either punches cores of soil out of the ground or creates small, clean holes. This mechanical process helps to alleviate soil compaction, which can occur due to heavy foot traffic, the weight of machinery, or natural settling over time.

When soil becomes compacted, it restricts the movement of air, water, and nutrients to the root zone of plants. Aerification breaks up this dense soil structure, allowing these essential elements to reach the roots more effectively. This leads to healthier, more resilient turf. For golf courses, aerification is a critical maintenance practice to ensure the quality and playability of greens and fairways.

The timing and frequency of aerification depend on factors such as turfgrass species, soil type, climate, and the intensity of use. Following aerification, the removed soil cores are typically broken up and brushed back into the turf, or the holes are filled with sand to further improve drainage and reduce future compaction. This practice is essential for long-term turf health and performance.