[DeliveryMan]

I have a guy in my neighborhood who is completely convinced that you absolutely have to verticut (using an overseeder with the seed hopper empty) after aerating and before leveling (in an aerate -->verticut --> top dressing order) in order to help cut more rhizomes and breakup the plugs to help the turf recover from the damage of the aeration..

His contention is that the verticutting is what they do at his golf course and so it must be right -- I just need more verification of that before I go rent an aerator and an overseeder.. It doesn't seem as if most of the people on this forum find it to be totally necessary..

What you guys think?

 

[Movingshrub]

I think the only reason it would be necessary would be if you have a thatch issue.

If you're concerned, snag his verticutter next time he rents it.

 

[Llano Estacado]

I am by no means an expert and think Shrub is correct. That said I do also think your neighbor is right about it helping recovery.

So just based on what I've learned so far is it necessary, No. Helpful and probably worthwhile, I say yes because what I've been led to believe is cutting the stolons and rhizomes is a good thing to do periodically.

 

[gpbrown60]

Nice to do after aerating but not necessary gets my vote. It is also nice to thrown down humates, fertilizer, molasses, kelp and anything else you want to spark the lawn after aeration.

 

[Mightyquinn]

Which golf course is he talking about? I say it isn't necessary at all but is an option if you want to kill two birds with one stone. If I was doing it I would remove all the plugs and then verticut and then remove all the debris the verticutter kicks up and then add any amendments you are wanting/needing and then top dress.