Preparing the Bermuda grass for winter

As we head towards the second half of September (and Fall, officially!), it is time to start preparing the Bermuda grass for winter. Some things we have already done, like aerating and compost. But we still have several more tasks to complete over the next few weeks.

One of the newer recommendations for Spring Dead Spot (SDS) fungicide applications, besides new, very expensive chemicals, is monitoring the soil temperature to time the application. Only in the last 2 years has the data really been supportive of a certain window for optimal control. In the past, some recommendations listed a first application date in August, and for several years we followed that protocol because it was the best available research.

However, this year, another round of data has suggested that the treatments should be made when soil temperatures are between 65-70 degrees. This means, that potentially, our August applications in the past were useless for their intended purpose. But this year, we are watching the soil temperatures and have thus yet to make our first application. Last year we would have already made 2 applications by now. We are excited to be making this adjustment to continue our battle against SDS. And in the coming weeks, as the soil temperatures fall into the optimal window, we will make our first of 2-3 applications to fight SDS.

Heading into the fall is also the time to make a nutrient application of potassium to the Bermuda grass. Again, consulting the research shows that potassium in the fall improves the turf’s ability to withstand stress and increase the winter hardiness. That is what makes this application so important for the Bermuda grass. 

Lastly, raising the mowing height may be the most important tool for overall Bermuda grass survival. Generally, the taller the grass plant, the longer the roots.  For Bermuda grass, the roots are what must survive the winter (also rhizomes, which are below ground stem-like structures that also help store carbohydrates). Once the Bermuda grass goes dormant, it must rely on the energy stored in its roots. By allowing the plant to grow taller in the fall, it is able to compile more reserves and strengthen its root system and better prepare for the winter.

Sometimes Mother Nature wins no matter how we prepare for the winter (like last winter). However, we have to be diligent in our preparations because they can and do make a difference.

 Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Remember to please fill your divots both on the tees and in the fairways. No one wants to land in a divot in the fairway, but if a ball does happen to end up there, a sand filled divot is much better than a hole.

Also, as part of a Golf Committee initiative to improve course etiquette, we have included links to videos teaching proper on course etiquette. Please take a moment to watch:

Ball Marks - How to properly repair

Bunker etiquette

See you on the course!

Joe

jvillegas@bwrc.org