Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!
So far, we are happy that true winter weather has stayed away. December weather has allowed cold weather golf for our bravest golfers. As of today (Monday Dec 19th) greens remain open and based on the forecast I suspect they will be open for a few days beyond Christmas. Persistent below freezing cold or significant snowfall closes greens for winter. Once closed, they won't open again until warmer March or April weather returns. We will alert everyone again when greens are closed for the season.
Greens and tees were sprayed to prevent winter diseases last week. A high rate of iron was added to the tank. Iron helps plant functions continue into January despite cold temperatures. Additional photosynthesis means deeper roots for next season and better turf. The final greens application for the year will be completed this week and involves applying the dark green waxy colorant that protects turf in case of a dry, open and snow free winter.
We have begun addressing a few tree issues on the golf course. We have removed dead and unsightly trees and a few affected by Hurricane Irene. Clean up will be an opngoing winter project. We will also look to remove some lower hanging limbs on trees this winter to allow better access for both golfers and mowers.
Sincere thanks to everyone for the wonderful support during 2011. Our golf course is ready for its long winter rest while my staff and I prepare for an even better 2012.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
Update and Annual Meeting Notes
Friday November 4 BIG Cup Weekend
I have posted below a summary of my comments to the Annual Meeting last week. Thanks to the Board of Governors for allowing me to speak! Feel free to call or email your comments or questions.
Greens were treated with dark green organic fungicide Civitas this week. The fungicide protects plants from snow mold fungi infection and cold November winds. The dye will last a week or so and then fade. The green protective paint that we’ve used to protect greens the last few winters will be applied with final plant protectants later in November or early December.
We will work to improve a few bunker edges next week as we wait for the majority of remaining leaves to fall from trees. We plan on preparing many of these areas beforehand, then plant sod during one or two days late next week or the week after. Thanks for your patience during the process!!
Soil samples were taken this week that will help us better manage essential element nitrogen. Besides telling us how much nitrogen is present in soils, these tests will reveal its pattern of release. Plants need a known amount of nitrogen monthly. Test results will reveal exactly when the nitrogen will become available for plants and will direct us to apply just the proper amount needed. Applying the exact amount will save funds and may prevent excessive nitrogen runoff into ground water and surface waters of Narragansett Bay. Technology rocks!!
Irrigation system will be shut down and pipes prepared for winter during the week of November 14.
A down payment is currently holding our second electric greens roller. A fleet of two practically new rollers to use next year will significantly improve greens conditioning.
Thanks to everyone for your wonderful support during 2011. We are already looking forward to 2012!!!
Golf Course Report 10/27/2011
Patrick Gertner CGCS
2011 REPORT
• Fairways had minor ice damage but recovered nicely during April and May.
• Springtime roughs were thick and penal partly because of 6.5” of April rainfall. In the future, we will be quicker to address this problem when it arises.
• RIGA Stroke Play tournament conditions were well received.
• August and September were wettest on record and among top ten in warmth since weather records have been kept. (119 years)
• Member donated roller arrived at Potowomut in September.
FAIRWAYS
• In July, back nine fairways were weakened by a growth regulator application. This chemical will NOT be used again.
• All fairways and some roughs were damaged by Grey Leaf Spot (Blast) disease in September.
• GLS’s pathogen is extremely rare most years; although common to RI golf courses in 2011 that have ryegrass present in fairways.
• Late season disease hits ryegrass only, one of three of the most common Potowomut fairway grass types.
• Commonly seen in hurricane years due to the warm and wet conditions they bring. (9.50” rainfall at Poto from Aug 28 to Oct 4.)
• Best remedy is to plant non-susceptible turfgrass varieties. (creeping bentgrass) Fairway overseeding completed on 10/12/2011, used 500 lbs. seed. (2.5 billion seeds) More seeding may be necessary in spring. Rough seeding projects are ongoing.
We are looking to purchase two different seeding machines this winter to be able to quickly address golf course seeding needs.
• Fairways were fertilized early this year (October 17) to speed recovery and again in spring 2012 if recovery is not progressing at satisfactory pace.
• Fairways will be in excellent condition for spring 2012, barring winter weather turfgrass damage.
2012
2012 Golf Course Maintenance Operation
The golf course will still be a joy to play next year for members and guests. The proposed budget includes equipment purchases. We plan on controlling turfgrass pests just as we have in past years. You will still play on lush fairways and tees and fast greens. Greens will be mowed or rolled daily and the driving range will have its divots seeded regularly with more aggressive and disease resistant creeping bentgrass. Growth regulators will continue to be used on greens, tees, and fairways for excellent playing surfaces. Above all, we will continue to strive to make Potowomut the best it can be, where you will be proud to bring family and friends.
2012 Greens operating budget highlights:
Health and playability of the golf course remains the top goals. 2012 spending budget is being built from the ground up addressing products and services for turfgrass health first.
• Green, tee and fairway disease management will be unchanged.
• Greens will be painted with the waxy green protectant for winter.
• Crabgrass will still be controlled using same chemical program used in 2011. 100% coverage
• All other weed control programs remain unchanged.
• Insecticide program will be maintained for all turf areas, upgraded on fairways where weaknesses showed in 2011.
• Includes 100% coverage for grub control; identical program as 2011.
• Hyperoides weevils (annual bluegrass weevils) control on golf course fairways and roughs to be significantly upgraded.
• Growth regulators, which are used to provide excellent playing surfaces, will be unchanged.
• Maintenance of irrigation system will not be neglected.
• No changes to rough mowing, green and bunker surround frequency. (New mowers will improve quality)
• Use of greens rolling will be expanded for increased playability.
• Use of weekend labor continues at or above 2011 levels.
• Intermediate rough maintenance will be upgraded. On many procedures, intermediate rough will get more intensive fairway maintenance, as opposed to being treated as rough turfgrass as in the past.
• Early ordering of ALL golf course chemicals will save Potowomut thousands. Newly available generic (off patent) products will be used.
2012 ADJUSTMENTS
• Frequency of mowing may be adjusted to twice per week on fairways and tees many weeks. This change may be imperceptible to golfers because stronger growth regulator program will better slow turf growth.
• Greens will be mowed at height of cut they’ve been mowed at from Aug 25 until aeration.
• Triplex greens mower will be used in shoulder seasons of April through early May and again in October and November. Labor saver.
• Greens will be rolled only many days instead of mowed and rolled. Labor saver. (Have located, and are looking to purchase 2nd greens roller.)
• Greens fertilizer program will utilize less expensive materials. Greens may not be as deep green in color as we are used to, but playing surfaces will be excellent.
• New equipment purchases will decrease funds needed for equipment repair.
• Hurricane Irene cleanup work will be saved for after this season which will enable us to apply those 2012 labor charges into insurance claim.
• Thousands of dollars in labor savings have been identified that have the least impact on the golf course. More part time employees.
We are already excited about 2012 plans. Problems that arose in 2011 have given us awareness to address golf course issues that need to be strengthened. 2012 budget provides for these changes. New equipment pieces will give improved golf course conditioning and will allow us to become more financially efficient.
2012 CAPITAL PLANNED PURCHASES
Highlights of new equipment include:
New fountain for pond
(2) New rough mowers
Topdresser
Fairway bunker rake
(2) Seeders for greens and roughs
2nd greens roller
I have posted below a summary of my comments to the Annual Meeting last week. Thanks to the Board of Governors for allowing me to speak! Feel free to call or email your comments or questions.
Greens were treated with dark green organic fungicide Civitas this week. The fungicide protects plants from snow mold fungi infection and cold November winds. The dye will last a week or so and then fade. The green protective paint that we’ve used to protect greens the last few winters will be applied with final plant protectants later in November or early December.
We will work to improve a few bunker edges next week as we wait for the majority of remaining leaves to fall from trees. We plan on preparing many of these areas beforehand, then plant sod during one or two days late next week or the week after. Thanks for your patience during the process!!
Soil samples were taken this week that will help us better manage essential element nitrogen. Besides telling us how much nitrogen is present in soils, these tests will reveal its pattern of release. Plants need a known amount of nitrogen monthly. Test results will reveal exactly when the nitrogen will become available for plants and will direct us to apply just the proper amount needed. Applying the exact amount will save funds and may prevent excessive nitrogen runoff into ground water and surface waters of Narragansett Bay. Technology rocks!!
Irrigation system will be shut down and pipes prepared for winter during the week of November 14.
A down payment is currently holding our second electric greens roller. A fleet of two practically new rollers to use next year will significantly improve greens conditioning.
Thanks to everyone for your wonderful support during 2011. We are already looking forward to 2012!!!
Golf Course Report 10/27/2011
Patrick Gertner CGCS
2011 REPORT
• Fairways had minor ice damage but recovered nicely during April and May.
• Springtime roughs were thick and penal partly because of 6.5” of April rainfall. In the future, we will be quicker to address this problem when it arises.
• RIGA Stroke Play tournament conditions were well received.
• August and September were wettest on record and among top ten in warmth since weather records have been kept. (119 years)
• Member donated roller arrived at Potowomut in September.
FAIRWAYS
• In July, back nine fairways were weakened by a growth regulator application. This chemical will NOT be used again.
• All fairways and some roughs were damaged by Grey Leaf Spot (Blast) disease in September.
• GLS’s pathogen is extremely rare most years; although common to RI golf courses in 2011 that have ryegrass present in fairways.
• Late season disease hits ryegrass only, one of three of the most common Potowomut fairway grass types.
• Commonly seen in hurricane years due to the warm and wet conditions they bring. (9.50” rainfall at Poto from Aug 28 to Oct 4.)
• Best remedy is to plant non-susceptible turfgrass varieties. (creeping bentgrass) Fairway overseeding completed on 10/12/2011, used 500 lbs. seed. (2.5 billion seeds) More seeding may be necessary in spring. Rough seeding projects are ongoing.
We are looking to purchase two different seeding machines this winter to be able to quickly address golf course seeding needs.
• Fairways were fertilized early this year (October 17) to speed recovery and again in spring 2012 if recovery is not progressing at satisfactory pace.
• Fairways will be in excellent condition for spring 2012, barring winter weather turfgrass damage.
2012
2012 Golf Course Maintenance Operation
The golf course will still be a joy to play next year for members and guests. The proposed budget includes equipment purchases. We plan on controlling turfgrass pests just as we have in past years. You will still play on lush fairways and tees and fast greens. Greens will be mowed or rolled daily and the driving range will have its divots seeded regularly with more aggressive and disease resistant creeping bentgrass. Growth regulators will continue to be used on greens, tees, and fairways for excellent playing surfaces. Above all, we will continue to strive to make Potowomut the best it can be, where you will be proud to bring family and friends.
2012 Greens operating budget highlights:
Health and playability of the golf course remains the top goals. 2012 spending budget is being built from the ground up addressing products and services for turfgrass health first.
• Green, tee and fairway disease management will be unchanged.
• Greens will be painted with the waxy green protectant for winter.
• Crabgrass will still be controlled using same chemical program used in 2011. 100% coverage
• All other weed control programs remain unchanged.
• Insecticide program will be maintained for all turf areas, upgraded on fairways where weaknesses showed in 2011.
• Includes 100% coverage for grub control; identical program as 2011.
• Hyperoides weevils (annual bluegrass weevils) control on golf course fairways and roughs to be significantly upgraded.
• Growth regulators, which are used to provide excellent playing surfaces, will be unchanged.
• Maintenance of irrigation system will not be neglected.
• No changes to rough mowing, green and bunker surround frequency. (New mowers will improve quality)
• Use of greens rolling will be expanded for increased playability.
• Use of weekend labor continues at or above 2011 levels.
• Intermediate rough maintenance will be upgraded. On many procedures, intermediate rough will get more intensive fairway maintenance, as opposed to being treated as rough turfgrass as in the past.
• Early ordering of ALL golf course chemicals will save Potowomut thousands. Newly available generic (off patent) products will be used.
2012 ADJUSTMENTS
• Frequency of mowing may be adjusted to twice per week on fairways and tees many weeks. This change may be imperceptible to golfers because stronger growth regulator program will better slow turf growth.
• Greens will be mowed at height of cut they’ve been mowed at from Aug 25 until aeration.
• Triplex greens mower will be used in shoulder seasons of April through early May and again in October and November. Labor saver.
• Greens will be rolled only many days instead of mowed and rolled. Labor saver. (Have located, and are looking to purchase 2nd greens roller.)
• Greens fertilizer program will utilize less expensive materials. Greens may not be as deep green in color as we are used to, but playing surfaces will be excellent.
• New equipment purchases will decrease funds needed for equipment repair.
• Hurricane Irene cleanup work will be saved for after this season which will enable us to apply those 2012 labor charges into insurance claim.
• Thousands of dollars in labor savings have been identified that have the least impact on the golf course. More part time employees.
We are already excited about 2012 plans. Problems that arose in 2011 have given us awareness to address golf course issues that need to be strengthened. 2012 budget provides for these changes. New equipment pieces will give improved golf course conditioning and will allow us to become more financially efficient.
2012 CAPITAL PLANNED PURCHASES
Highlights of new equipment include:
New fountain for pond
(2) New rough mowers
Topdresser
Fairway bunker rake
(2) Seeders for greens and roughs
2nd greens roller
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Questions, answers, facts and a request.
Questions, answers, a few facts and a request......
1. Question: Fairway and rough ryegrass is diseased with grey leaf spot (GLS). Why aren't greens affected? What about tees?
Answer: Greens have no ryegrass, so they cannot get GLS. Tees have ryegrass and can get GLS. Tees were sprayed on 8/23 and again on 9/26 with fungicides that prevented disease. We spray tees with higher quality fungicides that prevent a wider spectrum of diseases compared to less expensive materials used on fairways. Fairway fungicides used after August 15 target only a single disease, dollar spot, and no applications applied this year would have prevented GLS because of the high cost ($ 20,000+) to prevent it. Rough is never sprayed for any disease.
2. Question: What else are we doing to get rid of GLS unsightliness?
Answer: Besides the overseeding projects mentioned in an email last week, fairways and intermediate roughs will be fertilized heavily to get them to fill in quickly. Growth regulator use has been suspended until sometime next spring after fairways have fully healed. At this point, we need to aggressively grow grass and not impede healing in any way!!
3. Question: Will GLS come back?
Answer: For this year, it cannot because GLS needs consistent warm temperatures to remain active, especially at night. Yes, it could come back next year or in a future year, but it is a very rare turf disease. During 2011, we had the "perfect storm" for its development late August and September with a warm hurricane and almost every day rain occurrences in the weeks after. Total rainfall over a 38 day period was 9.5"
4. Question: How many types of grasses do Potowomut fairways contain?
Answer: Many. The predominant two species are ryegrass and Poa annua (annual bluegrass.) These two species are also the two grasses most prone to disease outbreaks in our climate. Fairways also contain Colonial Bentgrass, Creeping bentgrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and miscellaneous Fine Fescues....a true hodgepodge!
4. Fact: Ryegrass has not been added to fairways at least since we began at Potowomut in 2005. Seed bottles** hold colonial bentgrass and fine turf fescue. We go out of our way NOT to add ryegrass to fairways because of GLS and other potential disease problems. Ryegrass's best quality is fast germination; seed comes up in 2 to 3 days and can quickly "rescue" poor turf areas and turf managers. However as tempting it is to use ryegrass to reseed poor areas with fast ryegrass, we won't do it. Ryegrass is a quick fix grass that just kicks the can down the road a bit. Creeping bentgrasses, once established, provide the best playing surfaces and reliability over the long term and will be the only seed added to fairways in the future.
5. Question: Why do we add so much sand to greens after aeration?
Answer: For a couple of reasons. First, after the aeration machines pull soil cores, they are removed by the crew with shovels. We add sand because we are changing the soil we grow the greens in. Out with the old, in with the new!! Instead of original soils, we add a USGA tested sand that resists compaction, helps drain water from greens, aids golfers by accepting a properly struck golf shot, and to keep putting surfaces smooth and fast.
6. Important Request: Creeping bentgrass is a wonderful turf for fairways, but it makes for terrible rough. Please help us by only using seed bottles ON FAIRWAYS ONLY!!
**Seed bottle bentgrass will be changed from Colonial Bents to Creeping Bents before next year, to take advantage of the creeping bent's ability to laterally grow over time, combined with wonderful member participation to aid the cause. Fescue seed will be removed. Today's fairway conditions demonstrate the need for more bentgrass on fairways and far less ryegrass.
Thanks to Owen Zimmer, grandson of Richard (Paco) Zimmer and our many members who are helping us to seed divots in fairways! Please remember to replace an intact divot first, and use the seed bottle as a last resort!! Also thanks to member Larry Bonoff for helping to coordinate the Greens Staff and Bag Room Staff about the divot program.
1. Question: Fairway and rough ryegrass is diseased with grey leaf spot (GLS). Why aren't greens affected? What about tees?
Answer: Greens have no ryegrass, so they cannot get GLS. Tees have ryegrass and can get GLS. Tees were sprayed on 8/23 and again on 9/26 with fungicides that prevented disease. We spray tees with higher quality fungicides that prevent a wider spectrum of diseases compared to less expensive materials used on fairways. Fairway fungicides used after August 15 target only a single disease, dollar spot, and no applications applied this year would have prevented GLS because of the high cost ($ 20,000+) to prevent it. Rough is never sprayed for any disease.
2. Question: What else are we doing to get rid of GLS unsightliness?
Answer: Besides the overseeding projects mentioned in an email last week, fairways and intermediate roughs will be fertilized heavily to get them to fill in quickly. Growth regulator use has been suspended until sometime next spring after fairways have fully healed. At this point, we need to aggressively grow grass and not impede healing in any way!!
3. Question: Will GLS come back?
Answer: For this year, it cannot because GLS needs consistent warm temperatures to remain active, especially at night. Yes, it could come back next year or in a future year, but it is a very rare turf disease. During 2011, we had the "perfect storm" for its development late August and September with a warm hurricane and almost every day rain occurrences in the weeks after. Total rainfall over a 38 day period was 9.5"
4. Question: How many types of grasses do Potowomut fairways contain?
Answer: Many. The predominant two species are ryegrass and Poa annua (annual bluegrass.) These two species are also the two grasses most prone to disease outbreaks in our climate. Fairways also contain Colonial Bentgrass, Creeping bentgrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and miscellaneous Fine Fescues....a true hodgepodge!
4. Fact: Ryegrass has not been added to fairways at least since we began at Potowomut in 2005. Seed bottles** hold colonial bentgrass and fine turf fescue. We go out of our way NOT to add ryegrass to fairways because of GLS and other potential disease problems. Ryegrass's best quality is fast germination; seed comes up in 2 to 3 days and can quickly "rescue" poor turf areas and turf managers. However as tempting it is to use ryegrass to reseed poor areas with fast ryegrass, we won't do it. Ryegrass is a quick fix grass that just kicks the can down the road a bit. Creeping bentgrasses, once established, provide the best playing surfaces and reliability over the long term and will be the only seed added to fairways in the future.
5. Question: Why do we add so much sand to greens after aeration?
Answer: For a couple of reasons. First, after the aeration machines pull soil cores, they are removed by the crew with shovels. We add sand because we are changing the soil we grow the greens in. Out with the old, in with the new!! Instead of original soils, we add a USGA tested sand that resists compaction, helps drain water from greens, aids golfers by accepting a properly struck golf shot, and to keep putting surfaces smooth and fast.
6. Important Request: Creeping bentgrass is a wonderful turf for fairways, but it makes for terrible rough. Please help us by only using seed bottles ON FAIRWAYS ONLY!!
**Seed bottle bentgrass will be changed from Colonial Bents to Creeping Bents before next year, to take advantage of the creeping bent's ability to laterally grow over time, combined with wonderful member participation to aid the cause. Fescue seed will be removed. Today's fairway conditions demonstrate the need for more bentgrass on fairways and far less ryegrass.
Thanks to Owen Zimmer, grandson of Richard (Paco) Zimmer and our many members who are helping us to seed divots in fairways! Please remember to replace an intact divot first, and use the seed bottle as a last resort!! Also thanks to member Larry Bonoff for helping to coordinate the Greens Staff and Bag Room Staff about the divot program.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Another wet soggy post...
We are writing today to again report about our poor attitude about weather, especially the wet and cloudy kind. Over the last 38 days, 9.5" of rain has fallen on Potowomut, when probably 4.0 to 4.5 inches would be considered normal. Turf has not been able to dry for any length of time, it has been constantly wet. Wet turf is prone to diseases, no matter how strong the preventative fungicide program. Constant wet weather has also caused earthworms to come to the surface often, causing thousands of unsightly worm casts on fairways.
Everyone has seen poor performing fairways and roughs, especially on the front nine. Fairway and rough ryegrass turf was diagnosed with Grey Leaf Spot which is also referred to as blast disease because of the quick and devastating nature of the pathogen. (When blast disease shows up in the Northeast, it often occurs after the rains and warmth of a hurricane.) Chemical controls to prevent Grey Leaf Spot are too expensive for most golf clubs in our climate as a single fairway treatment exceeds $ 10,000 in cost, which is almost 25% of our yearly outlay for fungicides. Preventing the disease during the season would require two treatments.
We communicated this week with friend Dr. Lane Tredway, turf pathologist at North Carolina State University. He advises clubs not to try and prevent the disease but instead install resistant varieties of turfgrass to fairways. Resistant turfgrasses such as bentgrass and fescues do not get Grey Leaf Spot, and planting seed is less expensive than fungicide treatments that may or may not work.
Therefore, within the next week we will be hiring a contractor to re-seed ten to twelve acres of damaged fairways with creeping bentgrasses. Poor performing rough areas will also be re-seeded using a borrowed seeder from Quidnessett CC. Forecated warm October weather will help seed germinate quickly and fill in turfgrass voids on the golf course.
Earthworm casts present huge challenges for Superintendents. Again, chemicals are available that control earthworms, but they are very pricey and last for only two weeks making repeat applications necessary. Many clubs in the Northeast topdress fairways with a half inch of sand per season which also discourages populations.
Today we began aerating greens and completed six of them. Aeration is the process where we poke holes in soil to relieve compaction, improve soils by adding lost pore space and add sand. Excellent soil is comprised of 50% soil particles and 50% pore spaces. Over the course of the season pore spaces are squeezed away from soils from foot traffic, and from the weight of rainfall and maintenance equipment. Pore space is needed in the soil as space for roots and for water movement. Aeration helps soils breathe and allows us to maintain healthy, well draining greens during the season.
After greens are aerated and cleaned, we apply a fine layer of USGA tested sand to fill holes. Sand is a better growing medium as compared to existing soils that are removed and also smooths surface imperfections. Greens built with sands drain better and accept well struck golf shots.
We expect to complete the operation on Friday. Greens aerated in October can be slow to heal because of cold nighttime temperatures. However, warm weather over this weekend may speed the process a bit. Greens will be fertilized to speed growth, and thus, recovery. Also this year, greens will be overseeded to one of the improved Penn State bred varieties of low growing bentgrasses.
Please join me in welcoming the next five or six days of dry weather!!
Everyone has seen poor performing fairways and roughs, especially on the front nine. Fairway and rough ryegrass turf was diagnosed with Grey Leaf Spot which is also referred to as blast disease because of the quick and devastating nature of the pathogen. (When blast disease shows up in the Northeast, it often occurs after the rains and warmth of a hurricane.) Chemical controls to prevent Grey Leaf Spot are too expensive for most golf clubs in our climate as a single fairway treatment exceeds $ 10,000 in cost, which is almost 25% of our yearly outlay for fungicides. Preventing the disease during the season would require two treatments.
We communicated this week with friend Dr. Lane Tredway, turf pathologist at North Carolina State University. He advises clubs not to try and prevent the disease but instead install resistant varieties of turfgrass to fairways. Resistant turfgrasses such as bentgrass and fescues do not get Grey Leaf Spot, and planting seed is less expensive than fungicide treatments that may or may not work.
Therefore, within the next week we will be hiring a contractor to re-seed ten to twelve acres of damaged fairways with creeping bentgrasses. Poor performing rough areas will also be re-seeded using a borrowed seeder from Quidnessett CC. Forecated warm October weather will help seed germinate quickly and fill in turfgrass voids on the golf course.
Earthworm casts present huge challenges for Superintendents. Again, chemicals are available that control earthworms, but they are very pricey and last for only two weeks making repeat applications necessary. Many clubs in the Northeast topdress fairways with a half inch of sand per season which also discourages populations.
Today we began aerating greens and completed six of them. Aeration is the process where we poke holes in soil to relieve compaction, improve soils by adding lost pore space and add sand. Excellent soil is comprised of 50% soil particles and 50% pore spaces. Over the course of the season pore spaces are squeezed away from soils from foot traffic, and from the weight of rainfall and maintenance equipment. Pore space is needed in the soil as space for roots and for water movement. Aeration helps soils breathe and allows us to maintain healthy, well draining greens during the season.
After greens are aerated and cleaned, we apply a fine layer of USGA tested sand to fill holes. Sand is a better growing medium as compared to existing soils that are removed and also smooths surface imperfections. Greens built with sands drain better and accept well struck golf shots.
We expect to complete the operation on Friday. Greens aerated in October can be slow to heal because of cold nighttime temperatures. However, warm weather over this weekend may speed the process a bit. Greens will be fertilized to speed growth, and thus, recovery. Also this year, greens will be overseeded to one of the improved Penn State bred varieties of low growing bentgrasses.
Please join me in welcoming the next five or six days of dry weather!!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Post Tropical Storm Update
Apologies for taking such a long time to get to the blog....Also, please follow me on Twitter at PotoGreens for more frequent 140 character golf course updates!!
We have been through quite a bit during the last few weeks. Irene caused havoc and mayhem on the golf course and we continue to literally pick up the pieces and move forward. Remnants of Lee also came through RI and dropped four inches of rainfall last week...but that was a needed soaking!! I'll briefly recap a few highlights from Irene and again get back to writing about more everyday type issues we face in September and October.
As the storm moved through Sunday September 4, we reserved a rental on a brush chipper from the Cape area. Twenty equipment rental agencies were called before we had success. We had employees at the Club on Sunday to deal with situations that needed immediate attention, and this proved very worthwhile. Both storm drains at the Clubhouse building became clogged with tree debris early and were cleared during the day. If this wasn't done, the clubhouse building certainly would have been flooded through the front door and in the 19th hole.
We hired Warwick Tree Service before the storm left Rhode Island to perform necessary tree work to put us back in business. I am not sure what we would have done without them because golf course damage was extensive. Besides the obvious uprooted and downed trees, we had many dangerous situations with precariously hanging limbs that needed to be pruned. Warwick Tree was here for three of the first four days of cleanup despite their long list of affected customers.
Our Potowomut crew arrived on Monday to a golf course littered with tree debris everywhere. Photos were taken to document damage for insurance purposes. Our employees went hole by hole raking, blowing and picking up sticks, branches and small trees. The chipper arrived Wednesday morning. We started cleaning on hole ten because damage was less on the back side, and knew we could open those holes the soonest. Thanks to Shawn Campbell, Seth Force and bag room and restaurant employees for their help on Monday!! They were invaluable!! As of this writing, major debris has been picked up, piles of leaves still need to be picked up, and many areas need to be re-visited and cleaned again.
Also, much tree work remains for outside tree professionals to complete. All snapped and hanging branches will be pruned. Root balls from uprooted trees will be removed and stumps will be ground and established with turf. Turf damaged from tree work will be renovated and re-seeded. There are entire trees that still need to be removed because of storm damage, (see photo below of a huge new crack on a Maple left of #1) including some sizable ones. Yes, we are open and safe for golf, but please know that much work still remains.
Back to storm details. Power was lost to irrigation pumps Sunday during the storm. A National Grid Engineer arrived Tuesday and told us power probably wouldn't return until the following Sunday or Monday. The golf course can't survive long without rainfall or irrigation water, neither of which were possibilities on Tuesday. Before the Engineer was off the property, we called our pump supplier, DAF in Connecticut and reserved their only diesel powered pump that would enable us to pump water into our pipes at a third of the capacity we are used to. (Later in the day, the service people told me before Tuesday ended numerous Westchester County and suburban Connecticut clubs, including many with name recognition all over the United States wished they had called first.) The pump was installed on Wednesday and irrigation was initiated to drying greens and fairways. We arrived to work on Thursday morning surprised to find power in the pumphouse; the pump quickly was moved by DAF to another powerless golf course in New Canaan CT.
Power to the irrigation system controls comes from the maintenance facility. (Our generator was powered up to run irrigation satellites, but it proved to be too small.) Even though we could pump water, we could not tell which irrigation heads to run and for how long. For this reason, Assistant Superintendent Dan Virgulak and I had to visit each sprinkler head (we have 1100) to turn them on and off individually. Because of the diminished capacity of the pump, we could only run eleven heads at a time, compared to the thirty five to forty that run when fully operational. This is why irrigation was running while you played golf...it took a long time to irrigate 35 acres of turf under these conditions!
Power was restored to our shop on Sunday September 3, and we were completely back in the irrigation business! As of today, all irrigation is again operational.
TURFGRASS
Rain last week helped the golf course to recover from a few summer issues. All fairways had a bad reaction to a different growth regulator product applied in July and August. You may remember the off color appearance from a few weeks ago. Safe to say, this product will not be used again on fairways; we will return to the more expensive yet safer alternative. To aid additional healing of fairways, we won't apply more growth regulators this year. To thicken them up, we will encourage growth that we are usually trying to suppress.
Edges of greens that are thin or non-existent will be seeded with help of an aerator attachment purchased for this purpose. We will seed the areas to a newly developed creeping bentgrasses designed for extremely low heights of cut.
Tees will be aerated later this week or next. After tees are completed, we will begin fairway aeration. Greens will be aerated beginning on Wednesday, October 5th.
The areas where sod was taken from the turfgrass nursery (chipping green by the practice tee) will be renovated and seeded within the next few weeks. We used quite a bit of our home grown sod the last few years and it has been slowly shrinking!!
Sincere thanks to my wonderful and hard working crew for Irene clean up efforts. As usual, they went way above expectations to get the golf course back in play for members. Also thanks for many enthusiastic positive comments from members during the last few weeks.
We have been through quite a bit during the last few weeks. Irene caused havoc and mayhem on the golf course and we continue to literally pick up the pieces and move forward. Remnants of Lee also came through RI and dropped four inches of rainfall last week...but that was a needed soaking!! I'll briefly recap a few highlights from Irene and again get back to writing about more everyday type issues we face in September and October.
As the storm moved through Sunday September 4, we reserved a rental on a brush chipper from the Cape area. Twenty equipment rental agencies were called before we had success. We had employees at the Club on Sunday to deal with situations that needed immediate attention, and this proved very worthwhile. Both storm drains at the Clubhouse building became clogged with tree debris early and were cleared during the day. If this wasn't done, the clubhouse building certainly would have been flooded through the front door and in the 19th hole.
We hired Warwick Tree Service before the storm left Rhode Island to perform necessary tree work to put us back in business. I am not sure what we would have done without them because golf course damage was extensive. Besides the obvious uprooted and downed trees, we had many dangerous situations with precariously hanging limbs that needed to be pruned. Warwick Tree was here for three of the first four days of cleanup despite their long list of affected customers.
Our Potowomut crew arrived on Monday to a golf course littered with tree debris everywhere. Photos were taken to document damage for insurance purposes. Our employees went hole by hole raking, blowing and picking up sticks, branches and small trees. The chipper arrived Wednesday morning. We started cleaning on hole ten because damage was less on the back side, and knew we could open those holes the soonest. Thanks to Shawn Campbell, Seth Force and bag room and restaurant employees for their help on Monday!! They were invaluable!! As of this writing, major debris has been picked up, piles of leaves still need to be picked up, and many areas need to be re-visited and cleaned again.
Also, much tree work remains for outside tree professionals to complete. All snapped and hanging branches will be pruned. Root balls from uprooted trees will be removed and stumps will be ground and established with turf. Turf damaged from tree work will be renovated and re-seeded. There are entire trees that still need to be removed because of storm damage, (see photo below of a huge new crack on a Maple left of #1) including some sizable ones. Yes, we are open and safe for golf, but please know that much work still remains.
Back to storm details. Power was lost to irrigation pumps Sunday during the storm. A National Grid Engineer arrived Tuesday and told us power probably wouldn't return until the following Sunday or Monday. The golf course can't survive long without rainfall or irrigation water, neither of which were possibilities on Tuesday. Before the Engineer was off the property, we called our pump supplier, DAF in Connecticut and reserved their only diesel powered pump that would enable us to pump water into our pipes at a third of the capacity we are used to. (Later in the day, the service people told me before Tuesday ended numerous Westchester County and suburban Connecticut clubs, including many with name recognition all over the United States wished they had called first.) The pump was installed on Wednesday and irrigation was initiated to drying greens and fairways. We arrived to work on Thursday morning surprised to find power in the pumphouse; the pump quickly was moved by DAF to another powerless golf course in New Canaan CT.
Power to the irrigation system controls comes from the maintenance facility. (Our generator was powered up to run irrigation satellites, but it proved to be too small.) Even though we could pump water, we could not tell which irrigation heads to run and for how long. For this reason, Assistant Superintendent Dan Virgulak and I had to visit each sprinkler head (we have 1100) to turn them on and off individually. Because of the diminished capacity of the pump, we could only run eleven heads at a time, compared to the thirty five to forty that run when fully operational. This is why irrigation was running while you played golf...it took a long time to irrigate 35 acres of turf under these conditions!
Power was restored to our shop on Sunday September 3, and we were completely back in the irrigation business! As of today, all irrigation is again operational.
TURFGRASS
Rain last week helped the golf course to recover from a few summer issues. All fairways had a bad reaction to a different growth regulator product applied in July and August. You may remember the off color appearance from a few weeks ago. Safe to say, this product will not be used again on fairways; we will return to the more expensive yet safer alternative. To aid additional healing of fairways, we won't apply more growth regulators this year. To thicken them up, we will encourage growth that we are usually trying to suppress.
Edges of greens that are thin or non-existent will be seeded with help of an aerator attachment purchased for this purpose. We will seed the areas to a newly developed creeping bentgrasses designed for extremely low heights of cut.
Tees will be aerated later this week or next. After tees are completed, we will begin fairway aeration. Greens will be aerated beginning on Wednesday, October 5th.
The areas where sod was taken from the turfgrass nursery (chipping green by the practice tee) will be renovated and seeded within the next few weeks. We used quite a bit of our home grown sod the last few years and it has been slowly shrinking!!
Sincere thanks to my wonderful and hard working crew for Irene clean up efforts. As usual, they went way above expectations to get the golf course back in play for members. Also thanks for many enthusiastic positive comments from members during the last few weeks.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Miscellaneous ramblings
Some people have heard me say that I am never happy with the weather between May and November. That statement is untrue, as I was thrilled with the rainfall we received last Saturday night. As the precipitation continued on Sunday and Monday, I again turned anti-weather thinking of possible disease outbreaks caused by excessive soil moisture.
We went through an very hot and dry period from July 14 until August 6. In July, the irrigation system pumped 5.11 million gallons, the most ever in a month at Potowomut. (Some was used to water in July grub insecticide applications.) Increased heat promotes more damaging turf diseases to all areas as parts of two fairways were hit with minor outbreaks of pythium blight, a turf killer that visits Rhode Island only once or twice in ten years because of continued 95 to 100 degree heat needed for its development. Lower temperatures and fungicide applications stopped its progression but some damage was done on 7, 14 and 15. Patch diseases were also seen on fairways despite three preventative fungicide applications.
With cooler temperatures of late August approaching, the golf course is poised to be in great condition for fall golf. Thin areas of intermediate rough will be seeded soon, as will areas of 14 fairway. Greens will pick up significant speed with lower height of cut and cooler morning temperatures. Fall greens aeration doesn't happen until October 4th or 5th, so September will be a great month to enjoy your golf course.
If you haven't, please sign up in for the Green Committee's "Adopt a Hole" program. You can sign up on Foretees or in the Pro Shop for a single hole that you and your family would take a few extra minutes and repair ballmarks, replace or seed divots in fairways, or rake a bunker needing attention during your round. Thanks!!!
Follow us on twitter at PotoGreens!!
Tidbits.....Insecticide applications (greens, tees, fairways and roughs) for grubs were completed on August 3rd...Nematode counts are WAY down in samples sent to UMASS this year; experimental control methods seem to be working. Many reports of courses in the Northeast are seeing high populations this year....Pumped 11 million gallons of irrigation water through August 11....Diesel engine in the rough mower failed and is being rebuilt; we are renting the machine we are using now....Thanks to Mike Kirejczyk and Matt LaCroix for their efforts this summer as they return to college....
We went through an very hot and dry period from July 14 until August 6. In July, the irrigation system pumped 5.11 million gallons, the most ever in a month at Potowomut. (Some was used to water in July grub insecticide applications.) Increased heat promotes more damaging turf diseases to all areas as parts of two fairways were hit with minor outbreaks of pythium blight, a turf killer that visits Rhode Island only once or twice in ten years because of continued 95 to 100 degree heat needed for its development. Lower temperatures and fungicide applications stopped its progression but some damage was done on 7, 14 and 15. Patch diseases were also seen on fairways despite three preventative fungicide applications.
With cooler temperatures of late August approaching, the golf course is poised to be in great condition for fall golf. Thin areas of intermediate rough will be seeded soon, as will areas of 14 fairway. Greens will pick up significant speed with lower height of cut and cooler morning temperatures. Fall greens aeration doesn't happen until October 4th or 5th, so September will be a great month to enjoy your golf course.
If you haven't, please sign up in for the Green Committee's "Adopt a Hole" program. You can sign up on Foretees or in the Pro Shop for a single hole that you and your family would take a few extra minutes and repair ballmarks, replace or seed divots in fairways, or rake a bunker needing attention during your round. Thanks!!!
Follow us on twitter at PotoGreens!!
Tidbits.....Insecticide applications (greens, tees, fairways and roughs) for grubs were completed on August 3rd...Nematode counts are WAY down in samples sent to UMASS this year; experimental control methods seem to be working. Many reports of courses in the Northeast are seeing high populations this year....Pumped 11 million gallons of irrigation water through August 11....Diesel engine in the rough mower failed and is being rebuilt; we are renting the machine we are using now....Thanks to Mike Kirejczyk and Matt LaCroix for their efforts this summer as they return to college....
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
July Update
Greens held up very well during extra stresses placed on them during the 106th Rhode Island Amateur. In preparation for the event, greens were topdressed and groomed numerous times. (Grooming, a less aggressive form of verticutting, helps grass blades stand straight up, as opposed to laying over as they prefer, adding ball roll distance.) Water and fertilizers were held back. Each morning of the event, greens were double mowed at our lowest height of cut and rolled twice a day. Turf was under stress, yet performed very well. Thanks to Steven Willand Equipment of Brookfield CT for letting us borrow equipment we needed for the event!! Also, thanks to Assistant Superintendent Dan Virgulak and our wonderful staff of professionals who again went above and beyond what was asked for. You guys rock.
As your Golf Course Superintendent, our stated goals are to provide season long reliable and consistent putting surfaces for members and guests. On small (average size 4111 sq ft) Poa annua and bentgrass greens in our climate, numerous environmental issues are always in play to kill turfgrass from May through September including turfgrass disease, root eating nematodes, golfer foot traffic, insects, heat and humidity. The faster the greens, the more prone we are to turf damage and death from the above factors. Trying to add six to nine inches of stimp meter speed is not worth risking severe decline in greens' quality or the significant higher expense involved. My fellow colleague Steve Kurta uses a turf roller at the private club where he works with the phrase "Speed Kills" prominently displayed. Steve's roller speaks the truth!
BUNKER RAKE CHANGE
Beginning this week, the Greens Committee asks you to place bunker rakes INSIDE bunkers, instead of outside. Please put rakes inside the bunkers, parallel to the bunker edge on the low side of bunkers. The Committee feels it will be easier to locate rakes that are inside bunkers.
NEMATODES
We are one of a few northern courses experimenting with a new control product for nematodes, with the financial help of supplier Agrium Inc. Nematodes are small soil pests that feed on and eliminate turfgrass roots quickly during warm summer months. Today,(Wednesday) soil samples were pulled to determine nematode counts before Agrium's MultiGuard was applied to 15 green. We will sample Friday to again count nematodes to determine the product's effectiveness. (Samples will be sent to the University of Massachusetts Nematology lab where technicians physically count how many nematodes are in each sample.)
We will keep you informed how well the product is performing, or join me and observe the 15th green's turfgrass quality as you play the next few weeks!! (15 green has the highest nematode populations of all 19 greens, similar to China of world population)
COURSE UPKEEP
Finally, as we get further into the summer, we need your help to maintain your golf course. Ballmarks on greens become an issue the further we get into summer. Always repair your ballmark plus one other. Please view the following link which shows the proper method to repair a ball mark:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NiBpLs5n7I&feature=player_detailpage
Bunkers are also an area where you can help. Here is a link that shows how to properly rake a bunker. Hopefully, we don't hit into too many bunkers during a single round, but the time you take to rake a bunker affects the golf course for future players. Also, notice that the gentleman uses two hands, as a one handed bunker raker cannot provide a quality surface under any circumstance.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciYITPB28Ag
Also thanks again to everyone who uses sand and seed bottles on fairways. I truly believe we have one of the best programs in the country for sanding and seeding divots and am heart warmed by our membership's grasp of the program. Please remember however, we prefer you replace a turf divot versus using the sand and seed, as a significant turf divot will heal much faster than the seed will germinate. If the sand and seed is needed, only fill divots flush with surrounding soil. A divot filled with too much sand damages delicate mowing reels and bedknives and causes poor mowing quality.
Secondly, please remember that seed included in the bottle is for fairways only! The seed has been specially selected for fairways in our climate, but it makes for terrible rough turf. Again, thanks!
Thanks for every one's continued support!! I am quite sure there is not a more supportive membership of a Golf Course Superintendent and staff than here at Potowomut Golf Club. Sincere thank yous to everyone, as we hear so many positive comments each and every day.
Back to my hose....
As your Golf Course Superintendent, our stated goals are to provide season long reliable and consistent putting surfaces for members and guests. On small (average size 4111 sq ft) Poa annua and bentgrass greens in our climate, numerous environmental issues are always in play to kill turfgrass from May through September including turfgrass disease, root eating nematodes, golfer foot traffic, insects, heat and humidity. The faster the greens, the more prone we are to turf damage and death from the above factors. Trying to add six to nine inches of stimp meter speed is not worth risking severe decline in greens' quality or the significant higher expense involved. My fellow colleague Steve Kurta uses a turf roller at the private club where he works with the phrase "Speed Kills" prominently displayed. Steve's roller speaks the truth!
BUNKER RAKE CHANGE
Beginning this week, the Greens Committee asks you to place bunker rakes INSIDE bunkers, instead of outside. Please put rakes inside the bunkers, parallel to the bunker edge on the low side of bunkers. The Committee feels it will be easier to locate rakes that are inside bunkers.
NEMATODES
We are one of a few northern courses experimenting with a new control product for nematodes, with the financial help of supplier Agrium Inc. Nematodes are small soil pests that feed on and eliminate turfgrass roots quickly during warm summer months. Today,(Wednesday) soil samples were pulled to determine nematode counts before Agrium's MultiGuard was applied to 15 green. We will sample Friday to again count nematodes to determine the product's effectiveness. (Samples will be sent to the University of Massachusetts Nematology lab where technicians physically count how many nematodes are in each sample.)
We will keep you informed how well the product is performing, or join me and observe the 15th green's turfgrass quality as you play the next few weeks!! (15 green has the highest nematode populations of all 19 greens, similar to China of world population)
COURSE UPKEEP
Finally, as we get further into the summer, we need your help to maintain your golf course. Ballmarks on greens become an issue the further we get into summer. Always repair your ballmark plus one other. Please view the following link which shows the proper method to repair a ball mark:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NiBpLs5n7I&feature=player_detailpage
Bunkers are also an area where you can help. Here is a link that shows how to properly rake a bunker. Hopefully, we don't hit into too many bunkers during a single round, but the time you take to rake a bunker affects the golf course for future players. Also, notice that the gentleman uses two hands, as a one handed bunker raker cannot provide a quality surface under any circumstance.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciYITPB28Ag
Also thanks again to everyone who uses sand and seed bottles on fairways. I truly believe we have one of the best programs in the country for sanding and seeding divots and am heart warmed by our membership's grasp of the program. Please remember however, we prefer you replace a turf divot versus using the sand and seed, as a significant turf divot will heal much faster than the seed will germinate. If the sand and seed is needed, only fill divots flush with surrounding soil. A divot filled with too much sand damages delicate mowing reels and bedknives and causes poor mowing quality.
Secondly, please remember that seed included in the bottle is for fairways only! The seed has been specially selected for fairways in our climate, but it makes for terrible rough turf. Again, thanks!
Thanks for every one's continued support!! I am quite sure there is not a more supportive membership of a Golf Course Superintendent and staff than here at Potowomut Golf Club. Sincere thank yous to everyone, as we hear so many positive comments each and every day.
Back to my hose....
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
JUNE UPDATE
Summer is here and we have been busy improving the golf course for you and your guests. Included in our work is improved bunkers with new sand, and less Poa annua on greens!!
We also have seen a pest (hyperoides weevils) do some turf damage early during 2011, and we will explain what our plans are to control this insect pest.
BUNKERS
Greenside bunkers were edged last week. We are also adding new sand where needed. To date, we have added 100 tons to greenside bunkers. We are addressing bunkers with the highest needs first. We plan to continuing this project for the duration of the summer. **Please remember that newly filled bunkers will play a bit differently than they did before they were filled.**
We will continue bunker improvements later during the summer and fall by beginning to rebuild bunker edges. Many of the edges of bunkers have deteriorated over the years due to age, erosion, use and raking processes. On many bunkers, the edges have become a no man's land of bunker and/or rough, and our goal is to again create a clear and concise border of turfed bunker edge and rough. This will be done by clearly identifying bunker edges, and replacing sand that has spilled over the edges with new topsoil and sod. The lack of a edge on the low side of greenside 16 bunker is the best (or worst) example of a bunker needing this work.
GREENS
Greens are off to a strong start. As mentioned earlier this season, growth regulator Cutless is being used this year to increase creeping bentgrass populations by stunting the Poa annua. To date, we are extremely pleased. With higher populations of creeping bentgrass on greens, less Poa annua, greens will be more reliable and consistent over the long term. We expect this project to take two or three years, but the goal of nearly pure creeping bentgrass greens will be worth the wait!
INSECT DAMAGE
Annual bluegrass weevils (hyperoides weevils) have made an appearance and damaged turf this spring. These insects lay eggs into green, tee and fairway areas in early spring. Grubs, two to three millimeter sized, hatch in May and begin feasting on turfgrass roots. The area most affected to date is 11 fairway which shows moderate damage, despite insecticide applications made on May 2, May 17 and June 16. Greens, which show no damage, have been treated five times this season with two different insecticides.
We may see five or six generations of Annual Bluegrass Weevils during the summer, so continuing insecticide applications into August will hopefully keep turf damage to a minimum.
Tidbits.....we have pumped 3.8 million gallons of water as of today, 5.2 million as of June 28 last year....RI State Amateur Tournament begins July 12th here at Potowomut....have almost completed herbicide applications to give you a nearly 100% weed free golf course....we have a dedicated employee in 2011 (Divot Dan) whose only job is to fill divots with seed and soil on tees and practice tees...my thanks to our wonderful 2011 staff....follow us on twitter at PotoGreens...
We also have seen a pest (hyperoides weevils) do some turf damage early during 2011, and we will explain what our plans are to control this insect pest.
BUNKERS
Greenside bunkers were edged last week. We are also adding new sand where needed. To date, we have added 100 tons to greenside bunkers. We are addressing bunkers with the highest needs first. We plan to continuing this project for the duration of the summer. **Please remember that newly filled bunkers will play a bit differently than they did before they were filled.**
We will continue bunker improvements later during the summer and fall by beginning to rebuild bunker edges. Many of the edges of bunkers have deteriorated over the years due to age, erosion, use and raking processes. On many bunkers, the edges have become a no man's land of bunker and/or rough, and our goal is to again create a clear and concise border of turfed bunker edge and rough. This will be done by clearly identifying bunker edges, and replacing sand that has spilled over the edges with new topsoil and sod. The lack of a edge on the low side of greenside 16 bunker is the best (or worst) example of a bunker needing this work.
GREENS
Greens are off to a strong start. As mentioned earlier this season, growth regulator Cutless is being used this year to increase creeping bentgrass populations by stunting the Poa annua. To date, we are extremely pleased. With higher populations of creeping bentgrass on greens, less Poa annua, greens will be more reliable and consistent over the long term. We expect this project to take two or three years, but the goal of nearly pure creeping bentgrass greens will be worth the wait!
INSECT DAMAGE
Annual bluegrass weevils (hyperoides weevils) have made an appearance and damaged turf this spring. These insects lay eggs into green, tee and fairway areas in early spring. Grubs, two to three millimeter sized, hatch in May and begin feasting on turfgrass roots. The area most affected to date is 11 fairway which shows moderate damage, despite insecticide applications made on May 2, May 17 and June 16. Greens, which show no damage, have been treated five times this season with two different insecticides.
We may see five or six generations of Annual Bluegrass Weevils during the summer, so continuing insecticide applications into August will hopefully keep turf damage to a minimum.
Tidbits.....we have pumped 3.8 million gallons of water as of today, 5.2 million as of June 28 last year....RI State Amateur Tournament begins July 12th here at Potowomut....have almost completed herbicide applications to give you a nearly 100% weed free golf course....we have a dedicated employee in 2011 (Divot Dan) whose only job is to fill divots with seed and soil on tees and practice tees...my thanks to our wonderful 2011 staff....follow us on twitter at PotoGreens...
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Golf Course Update
After a cool and wet April and May, we've had perfect golf weather during June. Additionally, it has been dry the last two weeks with only a tenth of an inch of rainfall since May 24th. Not coincidently, growth of the rough has slowed dramatically.
A new set of tee markers were put out today. Anyone can use the new tee markers. These yellow markers were added for beginner or junior golfers who would prefer to play a short golf course. This is a trial program and will be evaluated later in the season. This short golf course has not been rated by the Rhode Island Golf Association. If the length of holes is overwhelming, come on out and learn to play our wonderful game, executive style!!
Trees were planted to the left side of 16 tee last week. These Serbian Spruces will serve as a protective screen from drives hit left from 17 tee. We purchased the largest trees (7-8') that tree nurseries keep in inventory. Larger trees would have been far more expensive to purchase, and would have been more difficult to handle and install.
We have begun edging and repairing greenside bunkers. We will be able to put an improved edge on these bunkers by mid July. Seventy five tons of sand (2 trailer loads) will be used to fill bunkers by a priority established by Greens Chairman Sal Soscia and myself. After the initial edging process, we will tackle more bunker projects as the season progresses toward fall.
A new set of tee markers were put out today. Anyone can use the new tee markers. These yellow markers were added for beginner or junior golfers who would prefer to play a short golf course. This is a trial program and will be evaluated later in the season. This short golf course has not been rated by the Rhode Island Golf Association. If the length of holes is overwhelming, come on out and learn to play our wonderful game, executive style!!
Trees were planted to the left side of 16 tee last week. These Serbian Spruces will serve as a protective screen from drives hit left from 17 tee. We purchased the largest trees (7-8') that tree nurseries keep in inventory. Larger trees would have been far more expensive to purchase, and would have been more difficult to handle and install.
We have begun edging and repairing greenside bunkers. We will be able to put an improved edge on these bunkers by mid July. Seventy five tons of sand (2 trailer loads) will be used to fill bunkers by a priority established by Greens Chairman Sal Soscia and myself. After the initial edging process, we will tackle more bunker projects as the season progresses toward fall.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Leaf Spot Disease
"Rain? We don't need no stinkin rain!" Or wind, clouds, or cold for that matter.
As late May approaches, we are observing injury from disease "leaf spot" on fairway turfgrass. Leaf spot, caused by fungi drechslera, has been present since April, and usually does not alarm turf managers. However, extended cold and wet conditions this week is helping the disease to spread and become more damaging to plants. If left uncontrolled, leaf spot can take out large areas of turf and make for unhappy Golf Course Superintendents and golfers.
If and when the wind and rain stops this week, two fungicides will be applied to control leaf spot in a single application. Most years leaf spot disappears as quick as it comes as warm weather slows, then stops growth of the fungi within the plant. This is not a normal year, so far....
As late May approaches, we are observing injury from disease "leaf spot" on fairway turfgrass. Leaf spot, caused by fungi drechslera, has been present since April, and usually does not alarm turf managers. However, extended cold and wet conditions this week is helping the disease to spread and become more damaging to plants. If left uncontrolled, leaf spot can take out large areas of turf and make for unhappy Golf Course Superintendents and golfers.
If and when the wind and rain stops this week, two fungicides will be applied to control leaf spot in a single application. Most years leaf spot disappears as quick as it comes as warm weather slows, then stops growth of the fungi within the plant. This is not a normal year, so far....
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Hit it straight!!
The rough is growing at a rate keeping both golfers and maintenance people unhappy. I'd like to provide a little information about this situation.
1. Rough turfgrass grows fastest in spring.
2. Since April 1st, 6.50" of rainfall has fallen on Potowomut. This factor is the most important one affecting unruly rough conditions today.
3. After a brutal 2010 summer, rough was fertilized to aid its recovery last fall. This also is affecting rough height and quality, especially when combined with both factors above.
The height of cut on Potowomut rough is 2.50". This height of cut is NOT changed during the year. Lowering the height to 2" would result in thin, less reliable rough during summer months because of the corresponding shrinkage of the turfgrass root system. Larger areas of rough would go dormant in summer months, or would die completely. During a past year, 2" rough was maintained as an experiment and was a rated a miserable failure because of poor rough condition during July, August and September. Remember, most rough turfgrass is NOT irrigated during summer because the sprinkler heads don't throw water far into the rough.
Normally, it takes us a full 40 hour week to mow the rough one time. The operator begins Monday morning at 6AM, and completes mowing eighteen holes by late Friday afternoon. For an example, rough on the 10th hole was mowed on Monday morning May 2nd, and will not be mowed again until Monday morning May 9th. Mowing rough twice a week would require investment in both new equipment and more manpower to complete.
For this month, we are working extra hours to try and stay ahead of the rough. We will mow holes with the thickest rough a second time during the week or during the weekend. We expect the rough to slow down during later May and June if normal weather patterns return.
On a positive note, we have begun mowing the "first cut" of rough this week, three weeks early.
1. Rough turfgrass grows fastest in spring.
2. Since April 1st, 6.50" of rainfall has fallen on Potowomut. This factor is the most important one affecting unruly rough conditions today.
3. After a brutal 2010 summer, rough was fertilized to aid its recovery last fall. This also is affecting rough height and quality, especially when combined with both factors above.
The height of cut on Potowomut rough is 2.50". This height of cut is NOT changed during the year. Lowering the height to 2" would result in thin, less reliable rough during summer months because of the corresponding shrinkage of the turfgrass root system. Larger areas of rough would go dormant in summer months, or would die completely. During a past year, 2" rough was maintained as an experiment and was a rated a miserable failure because of poor rough condition during July, August and September. Remember, most rough turfgrass is NOT irrigated during summer because the sprinkler heads don't throw water far into the rough.
Normally, it takes us a full 40 hour week to mow the rough one time. The operator begins Monday morning at 6AM, and completes mowing eighteen holes by late Friday afternoon. For an example, rough on the 10th hole was mowed on Monday morning May 2nd, and will not be mowed again until Monday morning May 9th. Mowing rough twice a week would require investment in both new equipment and more manpower to complete.
For this month, we are working extra hours to try and stay ahead of the rough. We will mow holes with the thickest rough a second time during the week or during the weekend. We expect the rough to slow down during later May and June if normal weather patterns return.
On a positive note, we have begun mowing the "first cut" of rough this week, three weeks early.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
This won't hurt a bit.....
"Now roll up your golf shirt sleeve, this isn't going to hurt a bit."
Greens are scheduled for aeration beginning Monday May 2.
We are using non invasive bayonet tines to aerate greens this week. We will NOT pull soil from the greens, we are only poking holes into the greens with a thin 6" long knife like tine. We will aerate in two directions. Greens will be lightly topdressed with sand. Greens will again be in nice condition two days after they are aerated.
One reason we aerate greens is to remove thatch, a coagulated layer of dead roots and decaying plant stems. Spring 2011 soil testing show that Potowomut greens contain LOW organic matter (around 2% thatch) content. Just five years ago, our greens contained "excessive" (6%) organic matter according to soil tests. Therefore, we hope to rely less on soil pulling core aeration during future springs and more on solid tine aeration. (****Other factors are also at work that may require spring core aeration, so no guarantees can be issued about which method we choose each sping****)
As a Superintendent, I'm thrilled we've had success to limit excessive greens' thatch. As a golfer, I am also happy to provide aeration to greens without severely impacting surfaces for putting....at least for spring 2011!!
Greens are scheduled for aeration beginning Monday May 2.
We are using non invasive bayonet tines to aerate greens this week. We will NOT pull soil from the greens, we are only poking holes into the greens with a thin 6" long knife like tine. We will aerate in two directions. Greens will be lightly topdressed with sand. Greens will again be in nice condition two days after they are aerated.
One reason we aerate greens is to remove thatch, a coagulated layer of dead roots and decaying plant stems. Spring 2011 soil testing show that Potowomut greens contain LOW organic matter (around 2% thatch) content. Just five years ago, our greens contained "excessive" (6%) organic matter according to soil tests. Therefore, we hope to rely less on soil pulling core aeration during future springs and more on solid tine aeration. (****Other factors are also at work that may require spring core aeration, so no guarantees can be issued about which method we choose each sping****)
As a Superintendent, I'm thrilled we've had success to limit excessive greens' thatch. As a golfer, I am also happy to provide aeration to greens without severely impacting surfaces for putting....at least for spring 2011!!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Bye bye Poa annua seedheads??
We've begun our program of slowing growth on greens with growth regulators. This is done to improve greens' speeds for putting but is also done to improve turfgrass health and stamina in summer. The program this year was also designed to prevent Poa annua seedheads from appearing during May and June.
Growth regulators slow growth by limiting the plants' production of gibberellic acid at the growing point. Less gibberellic acid limits the plant's ability to elongate cells. Under regulation, growth is slowed by more than 50%. Research shows that in addition to faster and smoother greens, the energies the plant puts forth toward manufacturing shoots and leaves is reversed. Simply, instead pushing out shoots and leaves, the turf grows more prolific roots. Deeply rooted turf can pull more nutrients and water from soils when summer heat usually causes root systems to die off.
Greens are populated by two vastly different species of turfgrass, creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) and annual bentgrass, (Poa annua.) Only the annual bluegrass produces those pesky seedheads in late spring that cause poor putting conditions. With some luck, we will not see as many seedheads this spring due to the change in our program. (Luck may be needed, as there is a narrow 48 hour time window for a proper application, six weeks before seedhead emergence!!)
Growth regulators slow growth by limiting the plants' production of gibberellic acid at the growing point. Less gibberellic acid limits the plant's ability to elongate cells. Under regulation, growth is slowed by more than 50%. Research shows that in addition to faster and smoother greens, the energies the plant puts forth toward manufacturing shoots and leaves is reversed. Simply, instead pushing out shoots and leaves, the turf grows more prolific roots. Deeply rooted turf can pull more nutrients and water from soils when summer heat usually causes root systems to die off.
Greens are populated by two vastly different species of turfgrass, creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) and annual bentgrass, (Poa annua.) Only the annual bluegrass produces those pesky seedheads in late spring that cause poor putting conditions. With some luck, we will not see as many seedheads this spring due to the change in our program. (Luck may be needed, as there is a narrow 48 hour time window for a proper application, six weeks before seedhead emergence!!)
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Bunker Update
Bunkers will be cleaned, raked and opened for play this weekend.
Springtime decisions to prepare the golf course for play are many. This spring, we have focused our efforts on cleaning a very dirty golf course after a damaging winter. The golf course cleaning process can be slow and arduous when mixed in with the first few mowings of greens, tees and fairways, putting out golf course equipment, irrigation start up other general duties. We try and accomplish course clean up as soon as possible because we cannot mow rough when sticks and branches are present. I guess you could say we are on a deadline.
This year, bunkers weren't touched until last week and were not finished for the weekend. All bunker rakes weren't put out for the weekend, and many bunkers were in very tough shape.
Next year, we promise to put a higher priority on getting bunkers ready for play during Spring. We also promise to provide better weather next Spring. We all know early Spring 2012 weather HAS to be better than what we have seen in 2011!
As always, thanks for your patience, support and feedback.
Springtime decisions to prepare the golf course for play are many. This spring, we have focused our efforts on cleaning a very dirty golf course after a damaging winter. The golf course cleaning process can be slow and arduous when mixed in with the first few mowings of greens, tees and fairways, putting out golf course equipment, irrigation start up other general duties. We try and accomplish course clean up as soon as possible because we cannot mow rough when sticks and branches are present. I guess you could say we are on a deadline.
This year, bunkers weren't touched until last week and were not finished for the weekend. All bunker rakes weren't put out for the weekend, and many bunkers were in very tough shape.
Next year, we promise to put a higher priority on getting bunkers ready for play during Spring. We also promise to provide better weather next Spring. We all know early Spring 2012 weather HAS to be better than what we have seen in 2011!
As always, thanks for your patience, support and feedback.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Chilly April Fools Update
Few Notes....
While March weather has been cold the last few weeks, the golf course has been enjoyable to play in its firm and fast condition. April brings the promise of warmer weather and hopefully many smiles after well struck golf shots!!
Aeration holes are still present on greens from last October's process. Since that aeration, we've had virtually no warm weather that greens need to heal. Please be patient and join me in hoping for warm temperatures to get the greens growing and healing!
The irrigation system was successfully turned on today with only a few minor electrical problems to rectify. We were concerned about the possibility of pipe breaks because of the cold winter, but none were found.
Congratulations are in order for Assistant Superintendents (and brothers) Dan and Steve Virgulak. They both recently completed the Two Year Turfgrass Management Program at Rutgers University in New Jersey. This program is attended by students from across many states and countries because of its reputation for excellence. When you see Dan or Steve on the golf course, please join me in wishing them congratulations!!
While March weather has been cold the last few weeks, the golf course has been enjoyable to play in its firm and fast condition. April brings the promise of warmer weather and hopefully many smiles after well struck golf shots!!
Aeration holes are still present on greens from last October's process. Since that aeration, we've had virtually no warm weather that greens need to heal. Please be patient and join me in hoping for warm temperatures to get the greens growing and healing!
The irrigation system was successfully turned on today with only a few minor electrical problems to rectify. We were concerned about the possibility of pipe breaks because of the cold winter, but none were found.
Congratulations are in order for Assistant Superintendents (and brothers) Dan and Steve Virgulak. They both recently completed the Two Year Turfgrass Management Program at Rutgers University in New Jersey. This program is attended by students from across many states and countries because of its reputation for excellence. When you see Dan or Steve on the golf course, please join me in wishing them congratulations!!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Early Spring Update
Dear Members,
The season is upon us!! February and March weather warmed us and thawed our thick snow layer a little ahead of schedule. Greens were opened despite the extension of winter-like temperatures from mid-March until today.
A thick accumulation of snow cover protected turfgrass from major problems this winter. Greens are in excellent shape as are fairways and tees. There are small snow mold patches present on fairways that will grow out quickly. The rough is matted down in places but will recover nicely with warmer weather. We did lose a few branches from trees and these will be cleaned up within the week. White pines behind the ninth green and along the seventh fairway were damaged significantly and will both be removed. The well we use to fill the irrigation pond was cleaned in early March and is ready to provide the golf course with water.
Improving greenside bunkers that see the most play is a priority for this season. These fifteen to twenty bunkers will have their sand fluffed using a small tiller and sand will be added if needed. If time permits, we will expand the scope of the work to include more bunkers. The landscape bed common to both the Clubhouse and Pro Shop formerly filled with unruly junipers will be improved by planting low growing perennials and annual flowers. A new hand railing for the 10th tee stairs will be installed this spring; thanks to member Bambi Soscia for this generous donation. Also, screening trees will be added this year along the left side of the 16th tee to protect golfers from errant tee shots from 17. Poor areas of the intermediate rough will be seeded during April.
Potowomut hosts the 2011 Rhode Island Amateur during July. My staff is excited to prepare and “show off” our great golf course for the best golfers in Rhode Island this year. More on this as we get closer to July.
Most maintenance plans are unchanged from past years. As always, the health and playability of the golf course remains our number one goal and will not be compromised during 2011. Plans include:
1. Crabgrass will be prevented wall to wall.
2. Grubs will be controlled during August wall to wall.
3. Hyperoides weevil control methods will utilize new technology this spring because of reported cases of beetle resistance in Connecticut and Long Island to insecticides we have used at Potowomut.
4. Disease control plans are unchanged for greens, tees and fairways.
5. Plant growth regulator use will continue to provide excellent playing surfaces.
6. Plant parasitic nematodes will be addressed during 2011 using experimental methods. New products are available in 2011 and they will be utilized.
7. Intermediate rough will be mowed from the middle of May through September.
8. Greens will be topdressed with sand every two to three weeks during 2011, providing smoother greens.
Other programs will be adjusted with virtually no changes evident to golfers. These include:
1. Greens aeration programs will be adjusted. Sand injection and deep tine operations that utilize outside contractors will be dropped in lieu of monthly spiking with deep bayonet tine aerification that will be done using Potowomut employees. These monthly operations are not invasive to the putting surface and will get adequate amounts of air into the soil profile to replace deep tine and sand injection.
2. Fairway fertilizer programs will be adjusted slightly and will still provide excellent playing surfaces.
We will also look to gain efficiencies wherever possible during 2011 to stretch your maintenance dollars.
As always, please help us take care of your golf course by replacing divots in fairways, repair your ballmark plus one other, and use the seed bottles only on divots that cannot be replaced. We are excited about beginning the golf season as like you, we want to forget the winter of 2010-2011 as soon as possible. Hope to see you enjoying your golf course soon.
Sincerely,
Patrick Gertner CGCS
The season is upon us!! February and March weather warmed us and thawed our thick snow layer a little ahead of schedule. Greens were opened despite the extension of winter-like temperatures from mid-March until today.
A thick accumulation of snow cover protected turfgrass from major problems this winter. Greens are in excellent shape as are fairways and tees. There are small snow mold patches present on fairways that will grow out quickly. The rough is matted down in places but will recover nicely with warmer weather. We did lose a few branches from trees and these will be cleaned up within the week. White pines behind the ninth green and along the seventh fairway were damaged significantly and will both be removed. The well we use to fill the irrigation pond was cleaned in early March and is ready to provide the golf course with water.
Improving greenside bunkers that see the most play is a priority for this season. These fifteen to twenty bunkers will have their sand fluffed using a small tiller and sand will be added if needed. If time permits, we will expand the scope of the work to include more bunkers. The landscape bed common to both the Clubhouse and Pro Shop formerly filled with unruly junipers will be improved by planting low growing perennials and annual flowers. A new hand railing for the 10th tee stairs will be installed this spring; thanks to member Bambi Soscia for this generous donation. Also, screening trees will be added this year along the left side of the 16th tee to protect golfers from errant tee shots from 17. Poor areas of the intermediate rough will be seeded during April.
Potowomut hosts the 2011 Rhode Island Amateur during July. My staff is excited to prepare and “show off” our great golf course for the best golfers in Rhode Island this year. More on this as we get closer to July.
Most maintenance plans are unchanged from past years. As always, the health and playability of the golf course remains our number one goal and will not be compromised during 2011. Plans include:
1. Crabgrass will be prevented wall to wall.
2. Grubs will be controlled during August wall to wall.
3. Hyperoides weevil control methods will utilize new technology this spring because of reported cases of beetle resistance in Connecticut and Long Island to insecticides we have used at Potowomut.
4. Disease control plans are unchanged for greens, tees and fairways.
5. Plant growth regulator use will continue to provide excellent playing surfaces.
6. Plant parasitic nematodes will be addressed during 2011 using experimental methods. New products are available in 2011 and they will be utilized.
7. Intermediate rough will be mowed from the middle of May through September.
8. Greens will be topdressed with sand every two to three weeks during 2011, providing smoother greens.
Other programs will be adjusted with virtually no changes evident to golfers. These include:
1. Greens aeration programs will be adjusted. Sand injection and deep tine operations that utilize outside contractors will be dropped in lieu of monthly spiking with deep bayonet tine aerification that will be done using Potowomut employees. These monthly operations are not invasive to the putting surface and will get adequate amounts of air into the soil profile to replace deep tine and sand injection.
2. Fairway fertilizer programs will be adjusted slightly and will still provide excellent playing surfaces.
We will also look to gain efficiencies wherever possible during 2011 to stretch your maintenance dollars.
As always, please help us take care of your golf course by replacing divots in fairways, repair your ballmark plus one other, and use the seed bottles only on divots that cannot be replaced. We are excited about beginning the golf season as like you, we want to forget the winter of 2010-2011 as soon as possible. Hope to see you enjoying your golf course soon.
Sincerely,
Patrick Gertner CGCS
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Turf Report
March Turf Report
Winter weather from late December through February had us concerned about winter injury to turfgrass. As a few die hard March golfers can attest, the golf course survived winter quite well and it should be in great shape for golf this spring. Greens are in excellent condition. Fairways and some rough areas have minor superficial snow mold damage that will grow out during later March and April.
Few New Englanders felt warm and fuzzy over our severe winter weather, but the heavy snow cover combined with extended cold temperatures helped turfgrass. The deep snow cover acted like a warm insulating blanket for turf, while the constant cold kept the snow from changing into damaging, turf killing ice. May all cold and snowy winters be just as nice as 2010-2011's!!
The golf course is somewhat messy with sticks and small branches scattered because of windy storms, but we are working to clean it. We lost a few trees and branches, and removed the dead pine on #2, and the large (and dead) maple on 18. If the golf course dries out quickly after this weekend's rains, I can forsee greens opening up somewhere between March 17th to March 24th with constant good weather. We will keep you posted.
Thanks for reading and we hope to see you soon!!
Winter weather from late December through February had us concerned about winter injury to turfgrass. As a few die hard March golfers can attest, the golf course survived winter quite well and it should be in great shape for golf this spring. Greens are in excellent condition. Fairways and some rough areas have minor superficial snow mold damage that will grow out during later March and April.
Few New Englanders felt warm and fuzzy over our severe winter weather, but the heavy snow cover combined with extended cold temperatures helped turfgrass. The deep snow cover acted like a warm insulating blanket for turf, while the constant cold kept the snow from changing into damaging, turf killing ice. May all cold and snowy winters be just as nice as 2010-2011's!!
The golf course is somewhat messy with sticks and small branches scattered because of windy storms, but we are working to clean it. We lost a few trees and branches, and removed the dead pine on #2, and the large (and dead) maple on 18. If the golf course dries out quickly after this weekend's rains, I can forsee greens opening up somewhere between March 17th to March 24th with constant good weather. We will keep you posted.
Thanks for reading and we hope to see you soon!!
Friday, February 18, 2011
2011 Ice Age Is Over??
In January, we wrote about ice accumulation on the greens causing potential problems for turfgrass this spring. As of today, (Friday February 18th) we have had 28 consecutive days of ice on greens. Research suggests that at least 40 to 45 days of ice accumulation is necessary to cause problems. The February thaw we are seeing this week is removing snow and ice from greens in an efficient and inexpensive way. As of this writing we are not planning to mechanically remove snow from the greens, or apply black sand to greens' surfaces to melt ice.
Although I don't like making predictions when dealing with fine turfgrass, it would appear that we can stop worrying about ice related issues at this time. Water is flowing between the greens' surfaces and the ice layer, providing gaseous exchange which plants need even in winter.
We can't wait to see everyone on the green golf course very soon. It has been white for far too long.
Although I don't like making predictions when dealing with fine turfgrass, it would appear that we can stop worrying about ice related issues at this time. Water is flowing between the greens' surfaces and the ice layer, providing gaseous exchange which plants need even in winter.
We can't wait to see everyone on the green golf course very soon. It has been white for far too long.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Mid Winter Update
Winter is a time for us to recharge batteries a bit, prepare equipment for its future duties, seek out the best deals on fertilizers and pesticide products and attend education sessions to learn new developments from distributors and university researchers. Of course, we are always here to help the golf course get through its long nap unscathed. While the golf course sleeps under a thick protective blanket of snowcover, potential problems are on the horizon due to the thaw and freeze cycle we've seen this week.
The first month of winter with its La Nina sent winter weather provided consistent cold temperatures with plenty of snowfall. The impressive snow cover provided an excellent layer of insulation from the cold, and also protects turf from damaging winds. However, because of the rain and mini thaw we saw this week, combined with extreme cold we'll see this weekend and beyond, potential ice problems loom on the horizon for fine golf turf in New England.
An ice layer has formed and will thicken on greens over the weekend. Ice acts as an impermeable layer over the surface of turfgrass, choking off plants from oxygen. Even in winter, plants need to breathe. If the ice layer stays for over forty days, problems may develop for Poa annua plants present on the greens. Luckily, as yours truly came to Potowomut from northern hinterlands near Rochester NY, we have been through this exercise before. If conditions are unchanged by later February, we may need to clear the greens of snow, and apply a truckload of black sand to break the ice layer. Black colored sand directs warm March sunlight to the surface, melting snow and ice quickly. We will keep you updated.
A few golf course trees have been damaged by the weight of heavy snows and strong winds. We have cleaned up a few, but more remain to be cleaned up when snow cover dissipates. Also, dead trees have been removed on 2,8 and 18.
As mentioned in my last post, the well that provides irrigation water will be serviced this winter. The contract has been signed and this work will be completed before we need water in late March or April.
A new nematode control product was introduced to the marketplace just after January 1st. (Nematodes damaged several greens last July.) I have scheduled meetings with the manufacturer and with the most learned nematode researcher on turfgrass, Dr. Wick from the University of Florida during a scheduled trip in February. Like the experimental walnut extract product we used last year, this is a bio-nematicide, a product applied that isn't a pesticide. Azaguard uses neem seed extract to shrink nematode populations because nematodes and neem seed extract act as two "north" magnets pointed at each other. Nematodes won't live under neem trees and the material acts as a deterrent.
We are excited already to get back to work on the golf course. With some luck, the golf course will remain unscathed through winter and will be open as soon as conditions permit. Back to regularly scheduled winter activities, and thanks for reading!!
The first month of winter with its La Nina sent winter weather provided consistent cold temperatures with plenty of snowfall. The impressive snow cover provided an excellent layer of insulation from the cold, and also protects turf from damaging winds. However, because of the rain and mini thaw we saw this week, combined with extreme cold we'll see this weekend and beyond, potential ice problems loom on the horizon for fine golf turf in New England.
An ice layer has formed and will thicken on greens over the weekend. Ice acts as an impermeable layer over the surface of turfgrass, choking off plants from oxygen. Even in winter, plants need to breathe. If the ice layer stays for over forty days, problems may develop for Poa annua plants present on the greens. Luckily, as yours truly came to Potowomut from northern hinterlands near Rochester NY, we have been through this exercise before. If conditions are unchanged by later February, we may need to clear the greens of snow, and apply a truckload of black sand to break the ice layer. Black colored sand directs warm March sunlight to the surface, melting snow and ice quickly. We will keep you updated.
A few golf course trees have been damaged by the weight of heavy snows and strong winds. We have cleaned up a few, but more remain to be cleaned up when snow cover dissipates. Also, dead trees have been removed on 2,8 and 18.
As mentioned in my last post, the well that provides irrigation water will be serviced this winter. The contract has been signed and this work will be completed before we need water in late March or April.
A new nematode control product was introduced to the marketplace just after January 1st. (Nematodes damaged several greens last July.) I have scheduled meetings with the manufacturer and with the most learned nematode researcher on turfgrass, Dr. Wick from the University of Florida during a scheduled trip in February. Like the experimental walnut extract product we used last year, this is a bio-nematicide, a product applied that isn't a pesticide. Azaguard uses neem seed extract to shrink nematode populations because nematodes and neem seed extract act as two "north" magnets pointed at each other. Nematodes won't live under neem trees and the material acts as a deterrent.
We are excited already to get back to work on the golf course. With some luck, the golf course will remain unscathed through winter and will be open as soon as conditions permit. Back to regularly scheduled winter activities, and thanks for reading!!
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