Looking toward 2014

Here are details of early planning for 2014 to improve your golf course. This list is just a start that will lead to a more extensive list that will be put into place before next season. Details to follow!

1. Greens fertility programs will be almost 100% organic for 2014. When soil biology is increased soils will improve. After reading three books recently on the wonders of organic farming, we have seen the light and it's pushing us to organic programs!!
2. Collars will be aerated frequently during the season. The undesirable soil cores will be removed and fertilizers and wetting agents that aid water holding and rooting will be added. We will avoid adding sand topdressing to collars and green edges.
3. Greens topdressing program will be upgraded substantially for smoother greens. We will topdress greens either weekly or bi-weekly.
4. Greens will undergo extensive soil testing from the International Sports Turf Research Center (ISTRC) (http://istrc.com) during the next few weeks. Results will help us plan maintenance procedures based on results from Potowomut soils.
5. Extensive tree removals behind and right of 15 green are planned to provide increased air movement. Also, a drain will be installed in the low area in the right back of the green and collar.
6. Fairways will be limed to address soil deficiency issues that became an issue during 2013.
6. Seasonal and summer staffing levels will to levels from four or five years ago.

Ok, back to leaves!

Patrick Gertner CGCS