Over the last 20 Months we have worked hard to reduce Organic matter levels within our soil profile in order to give the perfect environment for fine links grasses to thrive. Having applied over 220 tonnes of sand to the greens already in 2025 we felt at this point our focus turns to a sustained overseeding programme aimed at increasing the content of fine leaved grasses within the grass sward.
During the 3 day course closure from 20th -23rd October we aim to deep aerate our greens and approaches using our Wiedenmann GXi8 fitted with 12mm solid tines, working to a depth of 195mm. This will be followed up by running our TORO Procore 648 across the greens to create as many 12mm holes as possible at a depth of 15mm. A process called “Pot Seeding”. A drop spreader will be used to apply Barenbrug Fescue seed before we work any excess seed into the holes using dew switches. We also intend to disc seed the surfaces using our VREDO Super Compact Disc Seeder. The Vredo places seed in a V-shaped slit at a depth of 10mm and spacings of 35mm, directly in contact with the soil for maximum germination rates.
Following the mechanical aeration and overseeding processes, It is our intention to apply a further 40 Tonnes of our indigenous dune sand to surfaces before we use a Sweep and fill brush to cover the seed within the holes, provide the seeds with the correct growing medium and some protection from the elements. Providing the soil temperatures remain above 6 degrees the seed should germinate within the next 3 weeks, this is due to the slightly cooler conditions forecast at this time of year.
The surfaces will be rolled using our RB70 Tru Turf rollers to restore smoothness and trueness across the site.
Fescue and bent are the most appropriate species to links sites across the UK and with adequate management will provide characteristics that are typical of links golf here at Royal Aberdeen. The practice of overseeding is a vital aspect of what we are trying to achieve and will now remain part of our annual maintenance at least twice a year.
Although a little disruptive for a short period please be patient as we attempt to change the botanical composition of the sward to a more desired species and in turn finer links like surfaces all year round.
Royal Aberdeen Golf Club - Golf Course Blog 