Intensive core aeration and topdressing is often completed in conjunction with seeding. Seeding is typically completed using a drop, spinnder, or slice/disc type spreader. However, a new and highly effective seeding method has been developed by the creators of the Express Blower. The Express Blower Seed Injection System (patent pending), which is an option available on the Express Blower, allows for the application of seed simultaneously with the application of the topdressing. The system actually meters seed at prescribed rates uniformly throughout the topdressing layer. By metering the seed throughout the topdressing layer, the majority of the seed is placed below the soil/topdressing surface, improving seed germination rates. This also allows the seed to be projected directly into the aeration holes. The seed will be furnished with nutrition from the compost layer, which will help it to deeply root and develop a strong shoot.
Where seed injection of slice seeding is not available, the surface applied seed must be aggressively incorporated into the soil or topdressing layer. Often, core aeration is followed by drtop or spinner type seeding; then topdressing and drag matting will follow. It should be noted that in this well proven maintenance and renovation practice, the various process steps can be somewhat interchanged. For instance, since intensive core aeration is a time consuming process on athletic fields and large turf areas, it is often performed at the same time as topdressing. This is because conventional topdressing, using brush type units, is also a time consuming process.
Topdressing a one-acre football field with a ½ inch of compost can take six to eight hours depending upon staffing and equipment. To improve efficiency, Express Blower owners can topdress a site before core aeration is even completed. The best case scenario would be blowing the compost into the turf canopy and core holes once the soil surface has been intensely core aerated. However, this may not be feasible based on timing. Express blower owners have been able to topdress the same one acre athletic field with approximately 40 to 50 cubic yards of compost in a one to two hour timeframe.
On sites where the soil quality and turf stand is extremely poor, another topdressing option exists using the Express Blower. Instead of applying a layer of compost for incorporation into the soil, a three to four inch layer of a compost/soil blend may be applied. Basically, the compost/soil blend acts as a new root zone for the turf, instead of modifying the existing root zone through soil incorporation or aeration and topdressing. This renovation process would typically entail killing off the existing vegetation, applying the compost/soil blend, and seeding. Common construction practices which remove existing topsoil and leave subsoil for turf establishment, the time consuming nature of current topdressing practices, the reduction in facility staffing, and reluctance to invest in infrequently used equipment justifies consideration of hiring a topdressing service using the Express Blower.
Preface
Topdressing with Compost
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