Topdressing turf is probably first associated with golf greens, where a sand or sand/peat mixture was used to help with drainage and aid in smoothing the putting surface. Early golf courses used whatever native soil was available, and pushed it up into a mound to form a green. These types of greens were subsequently referred to as "push-up greens." The primary problem with these greens was that if there was a lot of clay content, the greens would drain poorly and get really hard in the summer months.

Golf course superintendents used core aeration and topdressing to help change soil structure and reduce compaction. The practical cultivation through core aeration and topdressing also helped to reduce thatch. Because of the benefits defined by the use of aeration and topdressing on golf courses, other turf managers began using topdressing and aeration.

Today, topdressing is used on golf courses, lawns, sports turf fields (incuding baseball, football, and soccer fields). Athletic turf managers use topdressing and aeration to help with field drainage and compaction problems. Many turf managers are finding that spreading compost on their athletic fields improves their playability.

Lawn care companies are finding a new market in topdressing home lawns, especially with compost and compost mixes. New home construction in many areas is on land with poor soils; contractors remove large quantities of the topsoil, leaving homeowners with little topsoil and subsoil, which is not a great growing medium for turf. They need organic matter to improve microbial activity in the soil and help aid the retention of moisture in order to help the lawns be more drought-resistant. Topdressing with compost is gaining popularity to help improve home lawns, especially those with heavy clay or sand content.

When choosing a topdresser, one should always first determine the appearance of the sites they will be topdressing. For example, are the sites large and wide open, or are there a lot of restrictions? Taking these factors into consideration will help you determine what size topdresser that will best fit your application. If you need assistance as to what size topdresser will be best for your needs, please contact us at our toll-free number: 1-888-693-2638.

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