Course Managers Update - Around the Greens in February 2020

We finally received some relief from the dry weather in January with 37mm falling during the month. This was enough to get some green back into the fairways and begin the recovery process. Several very hot days in January kept us on our toes but generally, everything and everyone got through unscathed.

The 1^st green has suffered with high sodium levels in the soil. Fortunately, we caught it before it got too bad with just the Poa Annua struggling and in some cases perishing in the conditions. With the level of sodium in the water and soil I think it’s performed quite well. All other greens are in excellent condition and handling the heat easily.

During the first lot of rain in January the tees were fed with a slow release Nitrogen. They have bounced back very well and are well on the way to full coverage. The tees will be renovated with hollow tines at the end of February and the ladies 1^st tee is still a work in progress but will be completed in February.

I would like to remind members and visitors to keep their carts and buggies off the tee surfaces, particularly when the weather is hot. For example, the 16^th and 18^th tees have dead wheel marks from where carts have been driven across.

The fairways greened up practically overnight with the first lot of rain in January. Insecticide was applied to control the burst of insect activity that comes with rain after prolonged dry periods and no insect damage occurred. Primo and liquid fertilizer will be applied during February to encourage more lateral growth to fill any remaining thin areas. Turf patching on Ground Pearl affected areas will commence in March, or even late February if conditions allow.

The trimming and mowing of bunker faces have not been carried out as often as I’d like due to staff holidays and the lack of applicants for an apprentice position.

Shay Tasker

Course Manager