Module 5:

5.3 Providing insight into activities

5.3.2 Aerating / Forking

What is used?

Aerator / spiker / hand fork.

Typically, tractor powered, so most likely diesel is required. A hand fork for localised areas might also be used, especially as part of post-match repairs or in combination with sanding.

Which one of the following options is the most significant reason for aerating a pitch?

Some reasons for aeration

1. To encourage good root growth, including by root pruning to improve the abundance of roots.
2. To encourage and improve surface water infiltration.
3. To encourage a denser sward, providing good ground coverage.
4. To improve player to surface grip/traction and reduce localised pitch surface hardness.