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An impressive array of pedestrian models shows that compact and light do not mean feeble. By Sally Drury
Aeration and scarification are essential for a healthy sward that looks good, plays well and withstands heavy use. The grass needs the right amounts of oxygen, water and nutrients. Decompacting and removing thatch ensures these elements can get to where they are required.
In this test, we focus on pedestrian-operated aerators and scarifiers. Some are suited to facilities such as tennis courts and golf greens. Others are of interest to small contractors and those looking after bowling greens and private gardens.
The tests were carried out at Sparsholt College, near Winchester in Hampshire. The Toro 648 was used to aerate the cricket square. All other equipment was tested on lawns. The tests were done in August, except the Plugger, which we tried in May. On both occasions, showers on the days before the tests ensured work was done in near-optimal conditions.
Toro ProCore 648 Aerator
If you think of professional aeration equipment as being tractor-mounted, think again. This is the self-powered, walking aerator from Toro. It's productive and gives an enviable performance. What's more, it frees up the compact tractor for duties elsewhere.
The 648 has been designed with golf greens in mind but would be equally at home on tennis courts, bowling greens or other areas of fine turf.
It arrives with four heads and turf guards fitted as standard. The tyres are smooth, tread-less and tubeless. There is a choice of tines and it is a simple process, involving just three nuts and bolts, to swap tines or tine holders. We use solid tines for the test.
Blake masters the controls quickly. On the operator console is a traction lever for forward/backward travel of the machine. The further the lever is moved, the faster the aerator travels. Releasing the lever brings the machine to a halt. In the centre is the switch to raise and lower the coring head, which is automatically engaged when lowered, although there is a lock to override it if necessary. Also on the console are the parking brake and oil pressure warning light.
Spacing is set via a control box on the left side of the machine, near...