Today we took soil samples from 5 greens on the golf course. The purpose of the samples isn't for nutrient analysis but rather organic matter testing. In a USGA spec green, accumulation of excess organic matter can cause a putting green to fail. Organic matter is comprised of dead roots, pollen, even old grass clippings that clog pore space in the sand. This is the reason for aerating a sand based soil; to remove the organic matter and backfill the hole with a channel of sand, so water can continue to move through the soil. Without aeration or sand dilution through topdressing (even DryJect), the greens would become soft and spongy, holding on to too much water. Of course, this also leads to fungal diseases and root rot.
A private laboratory in Ohio, Brookside Labs, will measure the amount of organic matter at 0-2 cm, 2-4 cm and 4-6 cm depths. This analysis is known as OM246. Looking at this data, we can tell if our current management plan is adequate. So rather than aerating greens just because we always have, we quantify data, which justifies the need for such programs.
The soil samples are allowed to air dry for a couple days before being sent off.
On #10/#11, we are continuing to prepare for the cart path widening project. We are removing the section of concrete path on #10 so we can make the entire path asphalt.
