Topdressing is a practice used by turf management experts and groundskeepers to keep grounds looking their best on the golf course, sports fields, and public parks. Topdressing prevents thatch buildup, smoothens the surface of the turf, and prevents desiccation in the winter. A commercial top dresser is an important investment for lawn, sports field, and golf course maintenance. Here’s why:
It Saves Money and Time
A commercial top dresser can help get the job done easily and quickly. Manual topdressing is hard work and requires plenty of time-intensive labour to shovel, move, and spread topdressing materials. With different sizes to pick from, there is a top dresser to suit every operation and budget. A top dresser can be pulled behind a tractor or ATV to quickly cover big areas. It is more efficient than manually applying materials or using a smaller machine.
It Ensures Consistent Material Application
Good top dressers are designed to handle different materials, both wet and dry. They can apply materials evenly and consistently to offer a level surface, speed up damaged turf recovery, and remove thatch. The equipment can be hydraulically driven and is easily adjustable in speed. With these features, the layer thickness is determined precisely. Also, top dressers have a smooth belt that eliminates load shifting to prevent material from escaping. And a good hopper capacity guarantees high productivity and the capacity to complete the job with minimal stops. Topdressing a golf course levels the field when there are visible variations or depressions and creates a better growing environment for the turf while helping with thatch management.
It Improves Ground Health
Topdressing, when combined with other turn management practices like aeration, will provide you with a pristine, healthy-looking lawn or field. During aeration, the soil opens up, allowing for better air and water movement and decreased compaction. And topdressing with compost fills in the holes to ensure better drainage and allow for healthier turf. Applying an even layer of sand or dirt regularly will improve the look of the ground and encourages a dense, lush field. This can be efficiently done by using a quality top dresser.
Topdressing is an important turf management practice that must be done at least twice every year. This is especially necessary when the turf is actively growing in the late spring and early fall or the late fall after the playing season. To ensure the job gets done right the first time, you must invest in a high-grade top dresser.