Grass, soil and machines — the greenkeeper's materials and equipment

Greenkeeper work is built on two things that are often overlooked: living materials such as grass and soil, and advanced machines. Knowing both thoroughly is a prerequisite for creating a course of high quality.

There are many types of grass and they have different properties: some tolerate heavy use and short cutting others are good in shade or on moist soil. On a course mixtures are often used that are chosen based on what the area should be able to do. Choosing and maintaining the right grass type is a professional judgment that has great importance for the result.

Under the grass lies the soil and its structure means enormously much. Good soil can hold water and nutrients but also lead away excess water. Greens are often built up with a sand-based growing layer that drains well and tolerates wear. Understanding soil structure moisture and nutrients is the foundation for the grass to thrive.

• 01Grass varieties — chosen according to use, cutting height, shade and soil type.
• 02Fertiliser — supplies the nutrients the soil lacks.
• 03Sand and top dressing — improves structure and drainage.
• 04Water — controlled according to weather, soil and season.

The greenkeeper manages many machines. Cylinder mowers give the finest cut on greens, rotary mowers are used on larger areas, and specialist machines aerate the soil, distribute top dressing, sow grass and collect leaves. Many machines are large and expensive, and it is an important part of the trade to operate and maintain them correctly.

Modern courses often have automatic watering systems that can control water precisely and water at night. Drainage systems divert excess water so the course doesn't turn to mud. Understanding and maintaining these systems is part of the greenkeeper's work.

The machines must be maintained lubricated sharpened and repaired to function and cut well. A dull blade tears grass instead of cutting it cleanly which both looks bad and can damage the grass. Daily care of equipment is therefore part of the professional craft.

“A sharp mower and healthy soil — then the grass does almost the rest itself.”

— Greenkeeper rule