As we wrap up 2014, we will be looking back at the top ten most viewed blog posts. I will count down until the most viewed blog post on January 1, 2015.
At #9 - A Core Sample Can Tell a Story Vol I and II
Pulling regular core samples off a playing surface can help with maintenance and assist in telling a story in regards to a natural grass playing surface. Below are two samples from the same field. Why are there differences?
The answer and an explanation will be posted tomorrow.
Back to the core samples posted on Tuesday. Why is there a difference. First a little background.
The Field:
The Field:
- Sand based bermudagrass
- Topdressed and aerified regularly
- A higher end playing surface
Back to the photos:
In the first photo, from the turf down, you can see a small sod layer from the sod installed this year along with a small organic layer built up every 1/4 inch. Why? That is the amount of sand that is topdressed on an annual basis - much like a ring on a tree. What is the heavier clay/black layer further down? That is the sod layer from the original sodding process 6 year ago.
On the second photo you see a more visual difference. Why? Thick cut sand based sod grown on plastic was installed in high traffic areas. So, the sand that was imported is 1 1/2 inch thick. If you look closely, you can see the sod layer deep into the hole.
Bottom line, take frequent core samples of your field. This field drains extremely well - in excess of 10 inches per hour, but it still has it's layering challenges.
Go to j-dturf.com to learn more about J&D Turf.
Play on!
--Jamie
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