High humidity and moisture continue to create challenges as it relates to greens. We are seeing lots of scalping of turf each morning with our greens mow. This is due to moisture levels being locked in from the humidity creating soft greens conditions. This scalping is magnified by the fact we have gone two consecutive Monday’s without the ability to lightly topdress. The light sand plays a key role in supporting the plants when they are succulent and smoothing the surface to aid in preventing scalping. We are hopeful to see a break in humidity or get some cooperation from Mother Nature which will allow us to return to light sanding on the Monday ahead. To note as well with respect to greens we will be backing off the 4th greens maintenance practices this week. On Monday this week we vented this green to provide it with air and assist in drying out. The stagnant air from lack of wind and the high humidity are the reasons for this green needing to be managed independently for the time being. Even with the tree removal done to support this greens health we still have a challenging environment for this green through periods of difficult weather.
This past week the Turfcare team was able to complete spray programs on the large acreage being fairways and tee boxes. This application will aid us in managing heat stresses as we enter into a stretch of 30 plus degree temperatures for the next while. We are hopeful this product will minimize traffic damage to the poa fairways during this period of high heat.