The core routine that keeps your green rolling true

A quality synthetic putting surface stays consistent with light but regular attention. The goal is simple: keep fibers standing, infill level, and the surface clean.

Weekly or as needed

  • Blow or pick up leaves, pine needles, and loose debris.
  • Quick rinse to remove dust or pollen if it builds up.
  • Spot clean spills before they dry.

Monthly

  • Brush the putting surface to lift fibers and even out traffic patterns.
  • Inspect seams, cups, and edges for movement.
  • Check for low infill spots and lightly top up if required.

Quarterly or seasonally

  • De-compact with a power broom if ball roll slows or the surface feels tight.
  • Deep rinse to clear fine dust and organics.
  • Confirm drainage performance after a heavy rain.

Step by step: how to brush and groom correctly

  1. Use a stiff nylon turf brush or power broom. Avoid metal bristles.
  2. Brush in multiple directions to stand fibers upright. Finish with your preferred roll direction.
  3. For tight areas around cups and edges, use short, light strokes.
  4. Test roll with a few putts. If the surface feels too slow, a more thorough groom usually restores speed.

Note: Some advanced users use a light turf roller to increase speed. Consult your installer and start conservatively to protect fibers and seams.

Infill care and speed control

Infill supports fibers and influences speed and trueness. Most putting greens use installer-specified silica sand or coated sand.

  • Check infill visually. Low spots show as flattened fibers or inconsistent color.
  • Top up lightly with the same infill type your installer used. Brush in to distribute evenly.
  • Refresh intervals vary by play volume and climate. Many owners only need minor touch-ups every 12 to 36 months.
  • If roll becomes uneven, de-compact with a power broom to loosen infill before adding more.

Debris, stains, and sanitation

  • Debris: Use a leaf blower or plastic rake. Keep organics off the surface to prevent algae and odor.
  • Dust and pollen: Hose rinse with a spray nozzle. Work from high to low edges.
  • Spills and spots: Use a mild dish soap solution and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly.
  • Mildew in humid areas: Treat with a 50-50 white vinegar and water solution, then rinse.

Trusted tools that make it easy

  • Leaf blower or plastic leaf rake
  • Stiff nylon turf brush or power broom
  • Garden hose with spray nozzle
  • Installer-specified infill for touch-ups
  • Enzyme cleaner for pet areas if needed

What to avoid

  • Metal rakes or wire brushes
  • Solvents, harsh degreasers, or undiluted bleach
  • High-pressure power washing close to seams

Seasonal and weather guidance

  • Rain: Natural rinse that helps. Inspect for settled debris afterward.
  • Snow: Let it melt when possible. If removal is needed, use a plastic shovel with care or a blower. Avoid metal edges.
  • Ice melt: Use pet-safe or calcium chloride products sparingly, then rinse. Avoid rock salt on turf and borders.
  • Heat: Keep grills, fire pits, and hot equipment off the turf. Reflected heat from low-e windows can damage fibers.

Pets on a putting green

  • Remove solids promptly. Rinse urine areas.
  • Use an enzyme-based turf cleaner for odor control.
  • Brush traffic lanes to keep fibers upright and roll consistent.

Edges, seams, cups, and drainage

  • Check cup sleeves and trim rings to keep them flush with the surface.
  • Inspect edges for lift or gaps that might invite weeds.
  • After major storms, confirm water moves off and no silt remains on the surface.

When to call a pro

  • Seam separation, wrinkling, or base settling
  • Chronic slow roll after thorough brushing and de-compaction
  • Major infill redistribution or contamination
  • Damage from heat, sharp tools, or heavy furniture

Time and cost expectations

  • Time: Many owners spend 10 to 20 minutes per month for routine care.
  • Infill touch-ups: Often pennies per square foot when needed. Budget roughly 0.10 to 0.25 dollars per square foot for a light top-off.
  • Optional power broom service: Periodic professional grooming can quickly restore speed and uniformity on high-use greens.

Do not do list

  • No metal tools, wire brushes, or spiked shoes on the surface.
  • No open flame, hot charcoal, or heat sources on or near turf.
  • No harsh chemicals, paint thinners, or petroleum-based cleaners.
  • No parked vehicles or heavy furniture that can crush fibers or stress seams.
  • No weed burners. Spot-treat weeds at edges with turf-safe methods only.

Quick maintenance checklist

  • Blow off debris
  • Rinse and spot clean
  • Brush in multiple directions
  • Top up infill only where needed
  • Inspect seams, cups, and edges
  • Log seasonal deep groom if roll slows