The Luck of the Grow-in

16 Bentgrass Approach 

As we move through March, our focus remains on preparation, refinement, and positioning the golf course for a successful grow-in ahead of our June reopening. While the heavy construction phase is behind us, this is a critical time where many of the details that define the playing experience are coming together.

With St. Patrick’s Day here, we’ve been greeted with plenty of green grass across the course—no Irish luck needed, although a little cooperation from the weather would be welcome.

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Weather & Conditions

March has delivered typical early-spring variability, with temperatures swinging between brief warmups and colder stretches. These fluctuations naturally slow consistent turf growth but are expected for this time of year.

We’ve also received approximately five inches of rain so far this month. While beneficial long-term, the added moisture has required us to closely monitor surface stability, manage minor erosion in open areas, and evaluate drainage performance following storm events.

Sodded areas from late last fall continue to establish well and are beginning to respond to longer days and warming soils. Areas with exposed soil remain more vulnerable and will continue to be a focus as we progress through spring.

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Turf Development

Mowing continues across all playing surfaces, and turf density is improving steadily.

Even though the course is closed, frequent mowing is essential. It encourages the plant to produce additional shoots, creating a thicker, stronger turf canopy that will better handle traffic and improve overall playing conditions.

Think of it as training—just like preparing for a marathon, the turf is being conditioned now so it’s ready for the demands of the season.

During grow-in, the turf also requires additional fertilizer inputs to build a strong root system. These inputs are temporary and will taper as the turf matures.

You may also notice sand applications on tees, approaches, and greens. This helps smooth the surface as the turf develops, improving consistency and playability.

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Course Work & Refinement

The team continues to focus on key finishing details across the property, including:

• Monitoring drainage following recent rain events

• Addressing erosion in exposed areas

• Ongoing cleanup and detail work

• Refining bunker faces and sand conditions

• Preparing surfaces as turf establishment continues

Bunker faces, constructed with Zoysia sod, will continue to strengthen as temperatures rise. Some  movement occurred during recent rain while the turf is still dormant, but all areas have been repaired and will continue to improve as active growth begins in late spring/summer.

All Bunker Faces Have Been Repaired 

Recent weather has also helped identify areas where surface water collects, allowing us to make adjustments now to ensure proper performance at opening.

Our team has completed bridge work between Holes 3 and 4 and installed new stairs on Hole 7 to improve access around the course.

Walking Bridges on 3

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Looking Ahead

There is still important work ahead this spring with McDonald and Sons returning soon with hopes of consistent weather,  but progress across the course continues to be steady and encouraging.

Remaining efforts will focus on punch list items,  bunker infrastructure, grassing, cart paths and finishing a few tees as we move toward reopening.

Our seasonal H-2B team returns in early April, along with two international interns from Japan and South Africa, adding valuable support during this final phase.

We appreciate your continued support and look forward to welcoming you back to Hyde Park soon. 

Thank-you,

Pat O'Brien 

Grounds Superintendent