Weather/Rainfall
October provided favourable conditions for golf and turf growth. The average maximum temperature was 25 degrees, with a couple of days reaching the mid-30s. Total rainfall for the month was just under 100 mm, providing welcome relief following a very dry September.
Greens
The greens remained in excellent condition throughout October and performed well under varying environmental conditions. Green speed was approximately 11 feet, increasing at times due to wind and heat. Overall, I was very satisfied with their performance throughout October and during the Club Championships.
Chemical control of Kikuyu runners in the greens and couch collars has commenced. Yellowing of the Kikuyu in these areas is evidence of the treatment.
Greens renovations are scheduled for 8 and 9 November, with mini coring to commence after Sunday’s competition. This will be followed by soil amendments and top dressing, as usual. The greens are expected to return to their current condition within 10 days.
Tees
The tees are responding well to warmer weather, with substantial improvements in growth and recovery from damage caused by golfers. Tee renovation has been postponed slightly to accommodate the PGA qualifier later in the month. The renovation will include hollow tining, an amendment/nutrition application and a light top dressing. I also intend to scarify the tee surfaces, subject to suitable weather and the golf programme.
Fairways
The fairways are in excellent condition when rainfall is adequate but dry out rapidly during dry periods. This is particularly evident on fairways such as the 4th, where large Tallow wood trees are located close to the edges. A further 300 square metres of turf was laid over Ground Pearl patches in October. This work will continue as time and weather conditions permit. The latest Ground Pearl trial is showing positive results, and it is expected to contribute substantially towards eradicating this pest or at least reducing the damage it causes.
Bunkers
The bunkers containing the new sand performed well under all weather conditions. Additional sand was delivered late in the month and will be used to replace sand in some of the existing bunkers.
Shay Tasker,
Course Manager