BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES cool-season fields , often aggressive overseeding immediately follows a fraise mowing event . Fraise mowing can also help smooth uneven fields , removing high spots . Fraise mowing should only be undertaken under optimal turfgrass growing conditions .
Sand topdressing . Photo by Ben Polimer .
Topdressing
Topdressing is often combined with core cultivation practices . Topdressing is the application of a uniform thin layer of soil , sand , or compost over the turfgrass surface . Frequent topdressing can level the playing field when minor variations or depressions are apparent , amend physical soil properties , create a better growing environment for the turfgrass , reduce thatch , and dilute organic matter .
Selecting an appropriate topdressing material is a critical aspect of a topdressing program . The topdressing material must be consistent in type and particle size to the existing rootzone , as well as be available for future topdressing . Variations in particle size can lead to layering , which impedes drainage and rooting .
Rolling
Rolling is often performed on sports fields to help smooth surfaces and produce a firm surface to increase ball roll speed ( e . g ., soccer ) or improve ball bounce ( e . g ., baseball , tennis ). Freeze / thaw cycles often lead to frost heave of soils , causing uneven playing surfaces . In these cases , lightweight rolling is often the quickest way to smooth these soils . If done in conjunction with a standard cultivation program to mitigate surface compaction , rolling is a very valuable tool to enhance playability . Some research has shown that rolling can reduce disease incidence on low cut sports fields . This reduction in disease incidence is directly related to
20 SportsField Management | January 2022 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com