Agronomic Update 5.14.20

Hard to believe it is the middle of May, and we are starting to see the Zoysia grass finally awake. There are many areas that are a little slower to transition, but I am hopeful with the warmth we will see consistent growth. For the moment, the weather trend looks to be above normal precipitation with warmer temperatures. Warm and dry weather would be fantastic; improving playability while increasing growth rates of the Zoysia grass. 

A few things of note on the course and around the grounds of Hyde Park:

A "purple haze" has been noted in some areas in the Zoysia grass. This time of year, Zoysia grass can produce a purple seed head. We use plant growth regulators in the fall to suppress the seed head for the following spring. We achieved over 90 percent control thus far with this application, across the 26 acres of fairways. The approach areas on #4 and #9  have exhibited more seed development than other areas. To be honest, I am not exactly sure why and no one has an explanation at this point!

Above: A close up of the Zoysia  seedhead on the 4th approach. As growth rates increase along with mowing frequency, the seedhead will be mowed off to create a smooth surface. 

With the wet spring and cooler temperatures a plant pathogen called Large Patch (Below) has been exhibiting symptoms in select areas of the fairways. We have applied a fungicide to these areas and we will see recovery over the next month. 

Across the property, we have roped off or have placed red pin flags (Below) in areas where carts should not travel through. Please continue to play your shot from these areas. Most of the areas noted with the flags are notoriously wet and or shaded where the Zoysia grass is slow to transition. The red flags also act as visual cues for our team not to mow these areas until the turf is actively growing!

At the practice area please refrain from hitting from the Zoysia grass in front of the teeing line,  the turning and twisting of the golf shoe, even while practicing a driver is a detriment to the Zoysia. It won't be long until the Zoysia tee will open for practice!

On the 3rd hole, the Zoysia continues to grow-in well, we are slowly reducing the mowing height to match the existing Zoysia grass in the fairways. It will take until Mid-July to achieve the desired height of turf. 

Thanks again for your patience, while we wait for Mother Nature to help with some warm and dry weather. If you have any questions or feedback please do not hesitate to send us a note to grounds@hydeparkcc.com 

Thank-you,

Pat O'Brien 

Grounds Superintendent