The objective of this trial was to investigate the effect of using the Sandcat machine on putting surfaces. Effects on turf quality and health, surface compaction, water retention and ball roll characteristics were measured. Additionally, the rate of turf recovery from the Sandcat operation was assessed, in conjunction with the use of Vision Pro turf pigment. The Sandcat resulted in a consistently drier and firmer playing surface, especially during wetter periods. Water infiltration rates were over double those measured on turf not treated with the Sandcat. The use of the Sandcat also resulted in a less smooth putting surface, but through appropriate maintenance inputs, the temporary effects of surface smoothness were remediated. The long-term benefits of using the Sandcat on soil-based golf greens that have agronomic issues are clear and consistent. The use of Vision Pro did not consistently speed up turf recovery, over and above optimum turf maintenance procedures.
