Why We Pull Plugs from the Greens: The Secret to a Healthier Course

If you’ve ever shown up for a round and found your favorite green full of holes, you might’ve wondered—what’s going on here?

That’s aeration in action—and even though it may not be the most beautiful sight at first glance, it’s one of the most important things we do to keep our course in peak condition.

“The greens here at Edgewood haven’t been aerated in some 6 years—and it shows,” says our superintendent, Josh Lennie. “While aeration can look unsightly, it’s nothing of concern and will heal up nicely when spring finally decides to show up.”

So, What Is Aeration?

Aeration involves removing small cores (or "plugs") of soil from the turf. Think of it as giving the grass a chance to breathe. You’ll usually see it done with a machine that pulls out these little plugs and leaves a pattern of holes across the surface. It’s not just random—there’s real science behind it.

Why Do We Do It?

Here’s the breakdown:

1. Relieves Compaction

All the foot traffic, mowers, and equipment put a lot of pressure on the greens. Over time, the soil becomes compacted, making it hard for roots to get the oxygen, water, and nutrients they need. Aeration loosens things up.

2. Improves Drainage

By punching those small holes, we create pathways for water to move more freely through the soil. That means less puddling, better playability after rain, and healthier turf in the long run.

3. Promotes Deep Root Growth

Roots need room to grow—and deeper roots mean stronger, more resilient grass. Aeration encourages root systems to expand and dig deeper into the soil.

“Right now, our thatch layer is hovering around 5%—which is way too high,” explains Josh. “That means we’ve developed a very shallow root system. What you’re seeing is called layering, and it’s a sign that it’s time to act.”

4. Reduces Thatch Build-Up

Thatch is that layer of dead grass and organic material that builds up just below the surface. A little is okay, but too much can block air and water from reaching the roots. Aeration helps break up excess thatch and keep it under control.

5. Leads to Smoother, Healthier Greens

Yes, aeration temporarily disrupts the surface—but it’s an investment in the future. With time, recovery, and some topdressing, the greens bounce back better than ever: smoother, firmer, and more consistent.

“I know nobody likes to play on aerated greens,” Josh adds. “It’s an unfortunate necessity in trying to improve conditions all around. I decided to do it at the start of the season to give you as much uninterrupted golf as possible for the rest of the year—and during the growing season, so we can heal up quicker.”

The Big Picture

We know it’s not always the most welcome sight when you're standing over a putt, but aeration is a key part of maintaining the course you love to play. It’s like taking vitamins: not always fun in the moment, but essential for long-term health.

Thanks for your patience and understanding during aeration periods. We promise—it’s worth it.