Compacted golf greens respond to deep aeration, controlled irrigation: Los Angeles County tests

Costly reconstruction of old compacted golf and bowling greens can be avoided by drilling holes at regular intervals and backfilling with a suitable growth medium, according to the southern California tests reported in the two accompanying articles. Extension Service assistance at Arrowhead Country Club, San Bernardino County, in 1961 and 1962 resulted in tests showing that deep aeration plus irrigation control increased root activity and, at the same time, reduced the amount of water needed to maintain acceptable turf during the fall and early winter by 50 to 60%. Tests last year at Arcadia, Los Angeles County, substantiated the earlier results with data showing that the 3-inch holes drilled by the usual machine—“aerators” are less effective for healthy regrowth than holes drilled to a depth of 8 inches.