In the northern regions of the country, we are always getting ready for some season.  Whether it is putting patio furniture away or getting our cars checked out for winter, we have to prepare for the upcoming season.  Well, your athletic field is no different.  We need to prepare the field to handle the harsh conditions of the upcoming months.

Your turf areas should be aerated and over seeded.

Topdressing may be necessary to level out uneven areas.

machine on field

It is also recommended that you do some type of deep soil relief once a year.  That could be from deep tine aeration to an Earthquake type implement, as long as you penetrate 8 to 10 inches to break up the hard pan that can occur at the depth from normal core and solid tine aeration.

gentleman on machine riding it on field

For baseball and softball diamonds, “putting your fields to bed ready for play”, can make a big difference on when you play your first game in the spring.  This is a great time to remove lips, rebuild mounds, bull pens, batters boxes, and edge all grass areas.  Take this time to find and correct low spots on your infield clay areas.  Be sure to cover your pitchers mounds and home plate areas to reduce erosion from the wind, rain and snow.  Doing this work in the fall can make spring preparation easier for you when the weather can be unpredictable.

If you have a question, call your ATS representative, they will be happy to give you some guidance.