Rolling plays an important role in how turf performs and looks.
As rolling practices continue to evolve and it becomes more widely recognised as a valuable year-round practice, it stands to reason that customer demands power new product development.
In recent years there’s been the growing emphasis on quieter, more environmentally-friendly machinery across the board and in the rolling category that has led to the creation of Toro’s GreensPro e1700, which combines the manufacturer’s renowned rolling performance with an all-electric design built for modern turf management.
But before we get into the specifics of the new product, let’s consider why golf courses should be incorporating turf rolling into their turfcare maintenance routine.
Why roll?
Rolling, when done correctly and at the right time, improves firmness and playability without placing unnecessary stress on turf. It involves applying controlled, even pressure to the surface working mainly on the upper soil profile, unlike mowing, which removes leaf tissue, gently consolidating the turf canopy and the soil beneath it to create a crisp, striped finish. Its importance cannot be overstated, benefits include:
● Smoother, truer surfaces – reducing small undulations caused by play, weather or routine maintenance
● Improved playability – particularly on the greens where ball roll and consistency are critical
● Increased surface firmness – help with recovery and cope better with heavy traffic
● Premium finish – contributing to a clean, professional finish on fine turf areas
● Prevent scalping – smoothing thatch and blending uneven areas
● Prepare seedbeds – rolling increases seed-to-soil contact, which leads to better growth
How to integrate rolling into your turf programme
To get the most from turf rolling, it should always be part of a wider surface management strategy:
● Combine rolling with regular aeration to relieve compaction and maintain soil structure
● Monitor soil moisture carefully to ensure conditions are suitable
● Adjust rolling frequency seasonally, increasing during heavy play and reducing during stress periods
● Use professional-grade equipment designed specifically for fine turf applications
The Toro touch
Now there’s a new offering available for rolling and those looking for more power, productivity, efficiency and more flexibility will be very interested to hear about the new Toro GreensPro e1700.
The power behind the GreensPro e1700 is Toro’s HyperCell
Lithium-ion battery technology that offers efficient, low-noise operation with zero on-site emissions. The standard two-battery configuration is capable of providing enough runtime to easily roll more than 18 holes.
Another key difference with this roller is its three-roller configuration: three large drive rollers provide optimal surface coverage and consistent ground contact, stable traction and even pressure across a wide 69-inch working width. Each drum is driven by an independent electric motor that allows for automatic speed adjustments during turns, and stops and actively prevents green scuffing and scrubbing that causes visible turf damage.
Meanwhile, an automatic alignment system helps ensure straight, consistent passes with minimal input.
Operator comfort and control are enhanced through new intuitive joystick controls, which allow users of any experience level to easily manage speed and direction with point-and-go steering.
These controls also include an advanced pass alignment function that ensures uniform, repeatable results with the push of a button.
Transporting the GreensPro e1700 is faster and easier with a new SmartHitch drive-up system that replaces traditional separate trailers or pull-over drawbars. Now the operator doesn’t have to exit the machine to connect. This eliminates downtime spent positioning lift bars and manoeuvring separate trailers.
“When it comes to productivity, greenkeepers are going to see a significant increase in what they can achieve with the GreensPro e1700,” said Jon Cole, Divisional Business Manager at Resink Turfcare. “From the wider rolling width to easier transportation, it’s designed for maximum efficiency and helping teams cover more ground faster. The virtually silent operation is also a game-changer for those essential early morning rolling shifts.”
Turf rolling excellence with Toro and Reesink
Turf rolling remains critical for professional turf management, helping elevate the playability and the aesthetics of golf courses – and, with a new survey finding that 90 percent of UK golf club members say that year-round course quality will impact their membership decision (according to Carr Golf), it’s arguably never been more of a priority.
As always, having the right partner is key for the longevity and impact of your programme. Reesink Turfcare, the UK’s exclusive dealer of Toro, supports turf professionals with reliable rolling equipment, expert advice and future-ready solutions.
Visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk or call 01480 226800 to speak with one of our experts.
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