Aeration

We begin aeration of greens, tees, and fairways today. Although disruptive, aeration is critical to the health of the turf.

For the Bermuda grass, it is growing at its fastest rate of the entire year. Providing some oxygen down into the soil will give it the last boost it needs to finish the season strong. But more importantly, the growth that is occurring now means that it is also producing carbohydrates and storing them for the winter. Helping make that energy storage process as efficient as possible is a key defense against winter injury.

We will also be applying our twice annual compost at this time as well. This is a part of our Spring Dead Spot control program but is also generally very beneficial to the turf and soil, giving a boost of energy to the turf, and a source of food for the soil organisms.

On greens, we are less aggressive due to the time of year and stress the turf is already facing. However, letting the greens breathe is still worth the work. Timing the aeration now, also allows for an uninterrupted fall golf season on greens that are healed from the summer stress and ready for more.

We also time some of our more extensive work on the soccer fields for this same window. Equipment is already hooked up and ready and the staff is in “aerating” mode. Both soccer fields are aerated, composted, and the upper field gets new sod in worn out areas.

Some of our regular maintenance is postponed during these busy few days, but grass doesn’t stop growing so we still have mowing to fit in. After aeration is complete, we try to have everything back together and in the best shape possible by the weekend. It is a whirlwind few days that most golfers despise, but it is critical for the long-term health of the course.

 

Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Please don’t apply bug spray or sun screen while standing on greens, tees, or fairways.

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

 

 

 

 

 

See you on the course!

Joe

jvillegas@bwrc.org