Course Managers Report - Around the Greens in April 2023
Published Thursday, 20th April 2023
Only 43mm of rain fell in March and the average maximum
temperature was just 1 degree lower than February average at 28 degrees. There
were some very warm days earlier in the month, but we can feel the change in
the air now as we head into the cooler months.
Greens renovations were once again disrupted by rain with
20mm falling over the 2 days, but fortunately we were still able to get the
renovations done. Post renovation recovery was very good although with
renovations comes an increase in growth due to nutrient application, missed
cuts and lack of plant growth regulator application. However, the greens have
fully recovered now and are in fantastic condition. Applications to control
Kikuyu and Couch encroachment will begin in early April.
The tees thoroughly enjoyed the March weather and coverage
over 99% of the tee surfaces is excellent. Selective herbicide has been applied
to control Kikuyu encroachment and pre-emergent for Poa and has resulted in the
slight discolouration of the tees as expected. The herbicide treatment will
help to keep the tees clean and get the 100% couch coverage we are working
towards. The 3rd tee is still struggling to recover from last years
wet weather.
Fairway surfaces have been fantastic and just keep
improving. Warm March weather with that bit of rain helped them continue to
recover from wet weather damage. Regular plant growth regulator and nutrient
applications have also contributed to the carpet-like surfaces. Small areas of
Ground Pearl activity can be seen on some fairways, with the most obvious being
on the 1st, 2nd and 6th. The 11th fairway continues to
recover but is slow, further tree work in this area will assist in its
recovery.
Wet weather continues to hinder bunker recovery although
there was some improvement during March. Recent rain has once again soaked the bunkers,
but the sand will be renewed in April to help improve their playability.
All players are required to rake bunkers after playing their shot
Work has been carried out in clearing debris in the rough
between 17th and 18th. This area will require ongoing
leveling to ensure it can be mown to enhance its playability.
In the next couple of weeks, we will continue to complete
the sleepers, turf and metal dust to smooth out the path surface at the top end
of the 11th path. Concrete will be installed at the 12th
tee end as soon as the concreter is available, and the weather allows.
Shay Tasker
Course Manager