21 April 14  |  Golf   |  

Keeping Golf Course Greens in Top Shape during Growing Season

Written by Jack Creveling, our Golf Course Superintendent.

During months when temperatures reach highs of 80 degrees or more, the golf course greens require more significant management to maintain championship conditions. To create a smooth putting surface, routine vertical mowing into the canopy of the plant is essential because it reduces grain and organic material.

Following this practice with a topdressing of sand provides the ideal medium for the greens to grow into and helps create a firm surface.

Pull behind topdresser applies sand after vertical mowing

Pull behind topdresser applies sand after vertical mowing

Greens surface after application of sand

Greens surface after application of sand

After sand is applied to the surface, the greens are then fertilized and sprayed. This enhances the sand as it is incorporated into the canopy of the greens.

The greens are then fertilized and sprayed with chemicals to enhance the sand as it is incorporated into the canopy of the greens

Fertilizing and spraying the greens to enhance the sand

In just a few days after the topdressing, the greens will have grown through the sand and become smoother and firmer for golf play. Our Golf Course Maintenance Team will carry out this practice continually during spring, summer, and early fall months as we maintain championship form. Members, see you out there on the greens!