December 2024

 Welcome to the last of the blog updates for 2024.

It has been another busy period to catch up on, and again for most of it we have been at least 1 staff down due to leave or other commitments.  I would like to thank Ben for taking charge for 3 weeks whilst I was on leave and to the boys for getting on with what they know is expected. During my leave there was a number of important events including fours champs and the MMMM charity day, the feedback regarding the course presentation from participants was exceptional, so once again My thanks to the staff and particular Ben for achieving these very high standards.

Unfortunately, limited availability of the equipment required to commence works on the 1st and 16th bunkers has forced us to postpone till when the equipment does become available, this is totally out of our hands so ask for some patience. In the meantime, we have revisited options for 16 bunker and in the process of looking at alternative measures, we will keep you informed if any changes will be incorporated. 

 

Changes to our Poa management strategies has included expanding applications into summer with the view to give the bent grass a more competitive edge over that of the Poa.  This is achieved as Poa is more sensitive to the product being applied than Bent grass. It is working exceptionally well, most greens have reduced active Poa of 50 to 75% though some greens with a very high percentage of Poa are thinning a little, other measures are being taken to ensure our surfaces are not disrupted too much.

One unexpected development is the couch and saltine are not as sensitive to the product during their favoured growing time so has increased the competitive edge they normally have over bent during warmer month more so.  We have pivoted our applications slightly to counter this.

 

As the lead up to and immediately after Xmas is generally a quieter period for member competitions (we still have our fair share of green fee players), and with only the Junior Open between New Year and the ladies Summer Cup in February, we have taken the opportunity to continue our selective trial variations for couch and saltine. You will notice some bleaching of areas sprayed and also saltine patches discolouring to yellow in some greens. Two different products are being used and then at differing rates and frequencies.

The bleaching on Bent grass is cosmetic only and will grow out.  It may not look pretty but it is a necessary step to asses efficacy and conditions before implementing a full spray program.   Applications will be repeated in Autumn.

Bleaching will subside over a few weeks.

 

Another task undertaken to selected greens was mini tinning, this allowed some venting of the greens with improved air and water penetration into the profile with very little surface disruption. We will see how the response is and may repeat the process a few weeks prior to the Summer Cup at which point a very light dust in may also be incorporated.  

 

Finally on behalf of the Greenstaff, I would like to extend our warm wishes and hopes for a safe and enjoyable Christmas and Happy New Year to all our Members and guests other staff and management.

 

Till Next time in the New Year

Happy Hooking !

 

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