Course Managers Update - Around the Greens in April 2024

March was almost a continuation of summer with an average maximum temperature a little over 28 degrees. Only 35mm of rain fell in March which saw parts of the course start to dry out. The high humidity kept disease and insect pressure on, as well as being generally uncomfortable.

Greens renovations were carried out as scheduled early in March. The hot, dry weather following renovations slightly hampered recovery, but the greens have now recovered and are in excellent condition going into Autumn. There are one or two small patches, such as the right edge of the 1^st green, suffering from sodium build up from irrigation. These small areas will receive some extra love in coming weeks.

Green speeds, as expected, have been slightly lower this month as they recover from renovations but I expect to see green speed pick up as we move into the cooler months. Autum will also see selective herbicide applied to green and collar edges to control Kikuyu invasion.

Growth on the tees are showing no signs of slowing down with the continuing warm weather and high humidity. As per our regular tee program, granule organics will be applied around Easter to boost tees into Autumn. Autumn will also see an application of selective herbicide to continue the control/suppression of Kikuyu in the Couch tee surfaces. The 3^rd tee is holding on, so far maintaining full coverage. We will consider over-sowing this tee for the cooler months.

Fairways did nothing but grow all March. We have excellent coverage going into Winter aside from some of the drier and Ground Pearl affected areas. Bare patches on 1 through 6 have been turfed out in our continuing battle with Ground Pearl. A section on the 1^st, 7^th and 8^th fairways were scarified and we expect to see excellent recovery to the areas.

With the drier weather in March we saw a massive improvement in our bunkers. Work has begun on clearing some drains and rejuvenating sand. This will continue into April and throughout Winter as time and weather allows.

Tree work has been carried out on the 10^th and 13^th and further tree work will take place during April.

Shay Tasker
Course Manager