Core aeration can modify the physical characteristics of soil, in order to prolong it's beneficial effects an amendment or topdressing must be backfilled into the core holes. Pure sand is often used in golf course situations. Yet, although sand can provide prolonged physical benefits to certain soils, it does little to improve the soil nutritionally or biologically. Many golf courses and high-tech sports fields may use a blend of sand and an organic amendment such as peat or compost. However, in most landscape and sports turf applications, the use of sand based topdressing is impractical because of expensive. For that reason and because of the unique characteristics of compost, the use of compost has started to become extensively used as an alternative to traditional sand-based topdressings. Of course compost may also be blended with sand or soil to produce specific types of highly organic blends.
In sandy soils, the compost will improve moisture-holding capacity, cation exchange capacity, and improve the microbiology of the soil. In heavier soils, the compost topdressing will reduce the bulk density of the soil and improve moisture percolation. Also, the ability of many composts to suppress soil-borne diseases is also a tremendous benefit to golf course superintendents, various other turf managers, and homeowner.
Compost products are typically rich in primary plant nutrients, thereby improving turf color and vigor and reducing the need for chemical fertilization. The slow release nature of these nutrients also makes it ideal for applications in the fall, potentially eliminating the need for fall fertilization. These additional attributes are economically significant and are excellent reasons why individuals attempting to reduce chemical applications or reduce the number of turf maintenance practices should top dress with compost.
Topdressing/Overseeding with the Express Blower
Preface
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