Course Managers Report - Around the Greens in February 2022
Published Wednesday, 9th February 2022
January was quite a pleasant month weather-wise with an
average maximum temperature of just 27.3 degrees and only one day over 300.
On top of this mild weather we also received 127mm of rainfall, most of which
came in the first half of the month. Growing conditions have been fantastic as
evidenced by the condition of the course.
The greens thoroughly enjoyed January’s weather. Even
with the high humidity and rainfall during the month we have kept a pest and
disease free surface. Anthracnose has all but vanished with only patches of
pure Bent grass left in its wake. I really don’t have much to report on greens,
and I’m just proud of the way they have withstood the high traffic and high
humidity, while maintaining excellent coverage and health. I would, however,
like to see our members and guests taking a little more time to repair their
pitch marks on greens.
January delivered great conditions which the tees enjoyed.
Some organics will be applied to the tees during February to get them through
the hottest month and into Autumn. The ground staff would like to thank the
Members and visitors who fill in their divots and ask them to encourage their
playing partners to also fill in their divots.
Fairways are really benefitting from an increase in Primo
Growth Retardant application during these wetter months. PGR is being applied
with a low rate of fertiliser every 3 weeks. We have also increased our cutting
frequency to help reduce clippings and thatch build up. There are still a few
patches that have not recovered from past Ground Pearl damage, and weather
permitting we will get into the returfing routine again in February.
Fairways are another area I’d like to see an improvement
in divot filling by golfers.
The bunkers took
an absolute beating in early January with several heavy rain events. The sand
finally arrived after being delayed by more than 6 weeks and we were able to
replenish some of the worst bunkers. Bunkers are groomed regularly but it is
often difficult to play out of them as too many golfers fail to use the rakes
supplied. Please take the time to rake the bunker after playing your
shot and return the rake to the middle of the bunker, facing the line of play.
Shay Tasker
Course Manager