Page 11 - GreenMaster Winter 2023

the root problem
The results from using Verti-Quake.
prune roots to, and you have visual confirmation that the roots have been pruned. The drawbacks to this method are that it can be a very slow and disruptive process, it creates greater potential for root infections, and it may not be suitable in certain soil types, especially those with a lot of rock in the soil.
Sometimes, this process is completed as a side benefit to installing irrigation, be it by open trenching, or pulling pipe in underground with a vibratory plow. There are several mounted attachments that can also accomplish root pruning, with a much less disruptive method.
The Redexim Verti-Quake attach- ment has several rows of blades spread across 1.6m and can go down to 250mm in ideal soil. The multiple rows of blades
(Above) Typical blade in both Verti-Quake and Imants machines
(Right) Suckering roots removed from a putting green.
do a great job at severing roots in multiple locations, and this method also contributes to the aerification and decompaction of the soil. It weighs approximately 690 kgs and requires a tractor with 30-45 horsepower, so it is not a small machine. It has a maximum working speed of 0.5 km/hour.
Another attachment option is the Imants RootPruner. This unit typically has two rows of 6 blades approximately 275mm apart and can work to a depth of 250mm. It weighs approximately 450 kgs and needs a tractor or similar with 40-65 horsepower. It’s working speed is specified as 0.3-0.75 km/hr.
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PHOTO CREDIT: SPECIALTY TURF SERVICES
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PHOTO CREDIT: RODERICK SCOTT
PHOTO CREDIT: SPECIALTY TURF SERVICES