Avoid topdressing damaged turf

We are big fans of frequent, light sand topdressing on greens for improved firmness, more even water movement/infiltration, reduced puffiness and management of organic matter and black layer.

However, there is one situation in which topdressing can hurt more than help the turf. And that is when turf has recently been damaged by pests, traffic, extreme weather or other stresses.

When you suffer some turf loss, there is a strong temptation to apply sand in order to smooth out the…