Golf Greens Rolling

Rolling, using a ride-on tandem type roller, as a ‘polish’ or light firming might be considered on occasions during the summer period to improve green speeds without causing undue compaction. If light rolling is carried out, then additional surface aeration will also be needed.

One example of these types of roller is the Tru-Turf R50-11 greens roller, which has a weight of 330kg, providing a ground pressure of 3.8psi. An adult human might have atypical ground pressure of 2.5 – 3.5psi.

Optional spiker or slitter units can also be connected underneath the chassis to work at the same time as rolling, so as to help maintain surface aeration at the same time as surface firming.

Light rolling can also be used as a means to improve green speed, especially as part of greens preparation for major competition or tournament play.

The frequency of light rolling, subject to suitable ground conditions, will typically vary from alternate days to once a fortnight, or less, or not at all if a machine is not available to a greenkeeper.