Aeration

Aim:

An operation to improve the physical state of the soil by increasing air content, root growth and helps incorporate fertiliser and top dressing.

Method:

• Can be done by hand with a fork or by pedestrian or tractor mounted aerator.
• Only take an aerator onto the pitch if conditions are fit and the equipment will not mark the surface. 

Timing:

Try and combine aeration with the soil drying out to encourage cracking of the soil and prior to an application of fertiliser.

Effects of Incorrect Procedure:

Aerating during the season can encourage the surface to break up and as the surface dries the aeration holes increase in size affecting ball direction/surface interaction.

Equipment Selection:

• Use the soil profile to select equipment and tines.
• Take advice before using large equipment or hollow tines on the pitch.
• Larger equipment can be used on the pitch. 

Practical Tips:

If you have a layered profile on the pitch aerate prior to topdressing to help bind the layers together.