Golf Course Conditions – August 2024

Starting August feels quite different from the start of July. In July, we received nearly 10 inches of rain over 18 days. This influx of moisture, coupled with the weather patterns, has led to rapid grass growth, making it harder to mow. As a result, we will increase the frequency or rates of our plant growth regulators (PGRs).

Additionally, the combination of afternoon rains, high humidity, and heat can lead to soil-borne diseases. Another concern is the presence of Army worm moths, which can also be problematic. These moths lay tiny eggs in clusters that hatch into caterpillars, which quickly consume the grass blades. They can be easily treated if spotted, and the damaged grass will recover.

On August 12th, we will aerify the greens again. Unlike the aeration in May, this time, we won’t pull cores. We will use a ½ inch solid tine, punching holes without removing any material. This method causes minimal disruption to the turf. The importance of aeration is well-documented by the USGA greens section, which advises that different courses may require different techniques based on specific needs. At the Brickyard, we use the best technique suited to our greens’ current and future needs. Light top dressing on greens, along with heavier top dressing around aeration, helps dilute or remove organic matter.

In August, we’ll also address the washed-out creek banks on holes #7 and #12. This project involves adding large rocks to the lower curved areas, backfilling with dirt, and sodding. We’ll also move the irrigation lines from the creek bed on #7 to along the bridge. Once completed, we’ll replace the broken cart path on #7 as needed.

Overall, the plant health on the course is good. We appreciate your patience as we work to keep up with mowing, blowing grass, and controlling weeds in the rough. As you play, please remember to fill all divots and repair all ball marks. Thank you for your cooperation!