You can tell a lot about a superintendent by how their greens roll. Some chase speed, others chase perfection. The good ones chase consistency.  There’s something poetic about it, watching that roller hum over the turf, leaving behind a surface that looks calm, like glass before sunrise. But rolling greens isn’t just about aesthetics or bragging rights on the stimpmeter. It’s about science, rhythm, and maybe even a little bit of soul. Back in the day, Dr. Thom Nikolai, known throughout the turf world as Dr. Green Speed ,  changed the conversation on putting surfaces. His research at Michigan State University proved that lightweight rolling could make greens faster and healthier at the same time. For years, many believed rolling compacted the soil, choking out roots and suffocating the turf. Nikolai showed something different. His studies revealed that rolling could reduce disease, smooth imperfections, improve moisture distribution, and even help superintendents mow less frequently without losing green speed. Rolling might seem counterintuitive. You’re pressing the turf down, yet somehow it thrives. It’s one of those quiet, consistent practices that add up over time. Superintendents who roll regularly often describe the difference as night and day, not just in playability but in overall plant health. During his early trials , Nikolai alternated mowing and rolling every other day, then every two days, and eventually rolled daily. Instead of negative effects, he found stronger turf, fewer disease outbreaks, and improved firmness. Even pest activity was reduced. Economically, the benefits made sense too. Rollers don’t require sharpening or backlapping, they use less fuel than a mower, and they keep surfaces consistent even when mowing frequency is reduced. Nikolai’s findings became the foundation for modern cultural practices on greens.  Many courses today still rely on rolling as part of their daily or alternating schedule to maintain smooth, true, and uniform putting surfaces. Yet decades later, when a new generation of turf professionals seemed to forget or question the practice, Nikolai was asked to revisit his work. At first, he was surprised. He thought the research had spoken for itself long ago. But in his latest studies, he’s once again proving what many in the industry already knew from experience. He’s finding that rolling affects more than just surface smoothness. It appears to influence soil biology too. Some of his data suggests that rolling increases beneficial bacterial populations in the soil, which may suppress fungal pathogens like dollar spot. It also seems to improve spring green-up, helping turf recover faster from winter and snow mold. The science behind these results is still being explored, but the patterns are clear. Rolling promotes health and consistency at a level that goes beyond the visible surface. What stands out about Nikolai’s work is his persistence. Even after decades of proving the value of rolling, he remains curious about why it works so well. That curiosity mirrors the mindset of the best superintendents: always looking closer, always learning, never settling. Rolling isn’t flashy, and it doesn’t draw attention the way mowing stripes or tournament setups do. Yet it’s one of the simplest, most effective ways to enhance turf performance. It’s about discipline, not show. The smoothest greens often come from quiet mornings, steady routines, and an understanding that good turf care isn’t about doing more, but about doing better. Rolling greens is more than a maintenance task. It’s a small, consistent act of craftsmanship that makes every surface more playable, every round more enjoyable, and every course more refined. The science continues to evolve, but the message remains the same: a well-rolled green speaks for itself.

When it comes to achieving elite-level turf performance, some tools make a bigger difference than most realize - and the turf roller is one of them. At Salsco, we’ve engineered two high-performance rollers that are making a measurable impact on fields across the country: the STR-180 Tow-Behind Roller and the Tranz-Former Self-Contained Roller. These machines are designed to improve surface smoothness, enhance playability, and support overall turf health - all while helping crews work more efficiently. Measuring the Difference: Turf Roller Performance in Action To demonstrate just how much of a difference a quality roller can make, we recently conducted a simple, revealing test using a soccer ball stint meter. Before any rolling, the ball traveled 24 feet on the unrolled turf. After a single pass with a roller, the ball traveled noticeably farther and straighter. But after a second pass, the results were striking: The ball traveled 34 feet - a 42% increase in roll distance. Just as important, the second roll significantly improved the straightness of the ball’s path and eliminated unwanted bouncing, indicating a smoother, more uniform playing surface. Why does this matter? On high-performance fields, especially in sports like soccer, field hockey, or lacrosse, ball control and predictability are everything. A consistent roll improves gameplay and player safety while also reducing wear patterns from unpredictable foot traffic. Salsco offers two professional-grade turf rollers, each suited to different field types and operational needs. STR-180 Tow-Behind Roller – 15-foot swath for fast, wide coverage – Three articulating roll sections ensure 100% ground contact – Ideal for large athletic complexes and multi-use sports fields – Designed to tow behind a utility vehicle or tractor Tranz-Former Self-Contained Roller – 10-foot rolling swath with a hydrostatic drive system – Self-contained unit - no tow vehicle required – Articulating rollers deliver smooth, even results across the field – Compact design for maneuverability in tighter areas Tranz-Former STR-180 Rolling Toward Better Playability Turf rolling isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about performance. A properly rolled field offers better ball response, increased safety, and a more professional look and feel. With Salsco’s rollers, turf managers can achieve those results quickly and efficiently, without compromising turf health. Want to see the difference yourself? Explore the STR-180 Tow-Behind  or the Tranz-Former Self-Contained Roller  and learn how Salsco can help you raise your field’s performance.

Since its founding in 1979, Salsco has been a beacon of innovation and quality in the turf maintenance equipment industry. Based in Cheshire, Connecticut, this family-owned business has grown from humble beginnings to become a trusted name among professionals worldwide.​ S A Legacy of Innovation Salsco's journey began with the development of the Salsco Lawn Maker, a 4-wheel drive unit designed for optimal maneuverability and efficiency in lawn care. This early innovation set the tone for the company's commitment to creating equipment that meets the evolving needs of its customers. Throughout the 1980s, Salsco introduced several groundbreaking products, including the first Vertical Free-Floating Tine Core Aerator for the lawn care industry and a series of Slicer Seeders. These advancements not only showcased the company's dedication to quality but also solidified its reputation as a leader in turf maintenance solutions. Diverse Product Line Today, Salsco offers an extensive range of products catering to various industries. Their lineup includes: Golf Course Equipment : Gas and electric greens rollers that ensure perfectly manicured greens. Turf & Sports Field Equipment : Tools designed for the maintenance of sports fields and large turf areas. Wood Chippers : Both PTO and engine-driven models capable of handling up to 18” capacity, ideal for efficient wood and brush processing. Shavings Processing Equipment : Machines that produce high-quality shavings for various applications. Paving and Curbing Equipment : Narrow-width asphalt pavers and curbing machines suitable for diverse construction needs. This diverse product range reflects Salsco's commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by professionals in multiple sectors. Commitment to In-House Manufacturing One of Salsco's distinguishing features is its dedication to in-house manufacturing. All products are designed and produced at their Cheshire facility, ensuring strict quality control and the ability to innovate rapidly. This approach allows Salsco to maintain the high standards that customers have come to expect over the past four decades. Global Reach with a Personal Touch Despite its growth, Salsco remains deeply connected to its roots as a family business. Employing over 70 people and working with more than 200 dealers and sales representatives worldwide, the company has managed to maintain a personal touch in its operations. This extensive network ensures that Salsco's high-quality equipment is accessible to professionals across the globe. Looking Ahead As Salsco celebrates over 40 years in business, the company continues to look toward the future with plans for expansion and new product development. Their unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction positions them well for continued success in the years to come. In November 2024, Salsco reached a significant milestone by joining forces with Foley Company, a leading provider of high-quality shop tools for the golf and turf industry. This acquisition marks a new chapter in Salsco's history, promising enhanced growth and innovation for both companies. To learn more about Salsco's rich history and their commitment to innovation, visit the History Page on their new website.

When it comes to preparing world-class greens and turf areas, your equipment has to rise to championship expectations. The Salsco HP11-III Greens Roller is the next generation in turf rolling performance—built in the USA and trusted by turf managers looking for unmatched speed, strength, and surface quality. Whether you're maintaining pristine greens at a private club, a resort course, or high-traffic municipal fields, the HP11-III delivers wide coverage, flawless traction, and consistent ground contact—no matter the terrain or conditions. HP11-III Rolling Green Built for Power, Engineered for Control At the heart of the HP11-III is a 13HP Honda electric start engine, engineered for high-output, fuel-efficient rolling. Its advanced hydraulic system drives three articulating, oscillating rolls, delivering 100% ground contact and eliminating slipping—even on wet or sloped surfaces. With a 73-inch rolling swath and speeds of up to 11 MPH, the HP11-III isn’t just for greens - it’s built to cover approaches and fairways just as effectively, cutting down transition times without compromising finish quality. Built for the Demands of Tournament Play The HP11-III is built on a rugged steel frame with continuous welds and reinforced gussets—this is not your average greens roller. It’s a purpose-driven machine designed to enhance turf performance at scale. Its beveled-edge rolls, independently driven by three hydraulic motors, offer smooth, uniform rolling while minimizing turf stress and compaction. The hydrostatic braking system and chain drive ensure superior control and safety on every pass. Optional kits such as the Top Dressing Brush Kit, Spike-Air Kit, and Tournament Roll Kit allow turf managers to customize the roller to match turf type, moisture level, and competition requirements—providing a tailored rolling solution for every challenge. Comfort and Confidence in Every Ride Operator experience is a standout strength of the HP11-III. From its 13-1/4” tilt steering wheel to optional armrest seat upgrades and pedal extensions, the roller is designed for long days on the course with minimal fatigue. A standard trailer with an extended tailgate and traction mat makes transport between holes secure and efficient. Proven Performance, Made in America Manufactured in Cheshire, Connecticut, the HP11-III reflects over 40 years of Salsco innovation and craftsmanship. Now backed by Foley Company, Salsco continues to push the envelope in turf care technology while staying true to its roots in quality and service. The Bottom Line If you're looking for a greens roller that’s fast, precise, and built to last, the HP11-III is your go-to machine. With wide coverage, premium engineering, and an array of customization options, this roller is ideal for elite-level turf conditions—from championship greens to heavy-duty sports fields. HP11-III: Built for performance. Designed for results.

When precision rolling meets cutting-edge electric technology, you get the Salsco HP3E Electric Roller—a machine that sets the standard for environmentally responsible, high-performance turf care. Built for golf course superintendents who demand consistency, reliability, and innovation, the HP3E is everything a modern turf maintenance program needs. Whether you're prepping greens for early morning play or fine-tuning tournament conditions, the HP3E delivers whisper-quiet, zero-emission performance without compromising speed, traction, or control. Rolling Greens on the HP3E Clean, Green, and Built to Roll The HP3E is powered by a 48V/200AH lithium battery and a 3-phase AC motor, giving you clean, fuel-free performance with no oil, no fumes, and no engine noise. That makes it an ideal solution for environmentally sensitive courses, noise-restricted communities, and clubs looking to lower their carbon footprint. With speeds of up to 8 MPH and a wide 72-inch rolling swath, the HP3E covers ground quickly while maintaining full roller-to-ground contact thanks to its three driven, oscillating, and articulating rollers. The result is a consistent, smooth surface with optimal green speed—every time. Advanced Control and Smart Features One of the standout elements of the HP3E is its intuitive operator experience. The tactile-feedback steering wheel gives you fine-tuned control, while the LCD smart screen displays battery level, speed, system alerts, and even allows users to toggle between Training and Pro mode. Add in push-button pedal height adjustment, a tilt steering wheel, and a molded armrest seat, and you have a roller that delivers comfort along with capability—perfect for long rolling sessions or tight maintenance schedules. Silent Efficiency That Works as Hard as You Do Rolling in the early hours or during tournament prep? The HP3E lets crews work without disturbing golfers, residents, or guests. Its regenerative braking and floating roll design minimize wear on both turf and equipment while boosting stability on inclines up to 40 degrees. Maintenance is simplified thanks to Salsco’s clean electric design and easy-access components. And because there are no engine fluids or emissions, the HP3E reduces cleanup time and site contamination risks. Standard and Optional Features to Maximize Performance Every HP3E comes equipped with a tilt transport trailer, cross-contamination prevention kit, LED light kit, and a high-efficiency onboard charger. Optional attachments like the Top Dressing Brush Kit and Tournament Roll Kit make it easy to tailor the roller to your turf management strategy. Whether you need to fine-tune greens for high-level play or increase daily rolling efficiency, the HP3E gives you quiet power with professional-grade precision. Proudly Made in the USA Like all Salsco equipment, the HP3E Electric Roller is proudly manufactured in Cheshire, Connecticut. It reflects the durability, innovation, and operator-focused design that has defined Salsco for over 40 years. Now under the Foley Company umbrella, Salsco continues to lead the industry in turf rolling solutions.