Change in Strategy

The summer stress period for the turfgrass plant is here in the Ohio Valley, which has caused us to pivot slightly to protecting the putting surfaces as the heat and humidity are challenging the older types of bentgrass on the greens. Practices that can help reduce turf loss on greens include raising mowing heights, reduce rolling and potentially some greens will not be mowed daily. With so many different types of grasses on the greens our strategies are focused around the weakest grass.  There are many instances where a variety of bentgrass will be healthy but just inches away another type will decline due to disease, heat and traffic stress.

Blotchy Appearance- Many Different Grass Types

Another excellent tool to help sustain Turfgrass health is the use of the aerifier to produce small 1/4" holes to allow for gas exchange in the rootzone. For many Turfgrass Managers this practice is fondly known as "Venting". These small holes are created on a monthly basis and are not an issue to playability.

• Allowing increased oxygen exchange within the root zone
• Increased water infiltration into the subsoil
• Added root growth while temperatures are moderate

"Venting"

Handwatering:

Golfers are often reminded to drink plenty of water before teeing it up on a hot summer day. Similarly, putting greens also need to stay hydrated. Typically, putting greens are irrigated at night or early in the morning. However, during periods of hot weather or low humidity, turf may need additional water throughout the day because soils can quickly dry out. Light watering during the day helps keep putting greens healthy and playing well. When the grounds team has the flagstick removed please do not hit the ball at the green. Hand watering usually only takes 3-5 minutes to complete.

Roughs:

Recently, the rough in many areas of the course has been impacted by a disease called dollar spot, mainly the unwanted Bentgrass and Annual bluegrass is in decline, however these turfgrasses make up 50 percent of the rough.  Fungicides have been applied, but the damage continues to occur. Innerseeding of fescue in late August will be necessary in many areas of the rough.

Dollar Spot in the Rough

Thanks again for the questions and feedback, please do not hesitate to reach out to us grounds@hydeparkcc.com

Pat O'Brien

Grounds Superintendent