Topdressing Greens

Topdressing Greens is one of the most important cultural practices golf course superintendents can do to ensure smooth firm putting greens.  The procedure consists of spreading a light layer of sand or sand/peat combination on the putting green followed by brushing, matting or irrigation to incorporate the sand. The picture on the left shows a light layer of sand disappears after it is matted in.
Topdressing should be done every two to three weeks during the growing season. Some of the benefits of incorporating sand into the greens include diluting or preventing thatch from accumulating, smoothing out the surface by filling in bumps and depressions, and firming up the surface. Golfers may perceive this practice as an inconvenience but believe me the benefits are worth it. The best golf courses in the world all have a very regimented topdressing program.
Until next time.
David