Course update

We have been very busy on the course.  Lots of leaves to blow each and everyday.  Often times we will blow an area multiple times the same day.  The weather has been awesome.  Cool in the mornings, but by lunchtime we are shedding layers because the warmth of the sun.  We have been very fortunate with the temperatures for recovery of the leaf spot outbreak early in the month.  Typically the weather has turned much cooler by mid October.  As I look at the 10 day forecast it seems that warm trend will continue.  But as you know Georgia weather can change very quickly and I suspect we will have a frost within 2 weeks.


I wanted to talk about the "mud" on 2 and 7 greens.  For a reason in which I can't explain, earthworms have enjoyed taking up residence in those greens.  Each morning when we arrive to mow, nearly all of the surface is covered with mounds of dirt.  We tried many things, including running water to reduce the amount of dirt before we mow.  We tried blowing the dirt off, but there was no good way.  Eventually the dirt began to pack down and create a layer and choke out the grass.  So, we went out with a high pressure hose and flooded and washed the mud out and off the green. By doing that it allowed those chocked out areas to breath and get sunlight. We applied a few products that have worked in controlling the issue, and recovery is in progress.


I would like to introduce Tony Mosley, my new Assistant Superintendent.  Tony joined us in early October and brings great knowledge.  He has previously served as a Superintendent in the early 2000's before getting out of the golf business.  I am sure you will get a chance to meet and get to know him.


See you on the course!


Andy

Leaf Spot/Pythium

Greens Update:


What is another way to tell Fall is here?   The arrival of disease pressure on the greens.  This is a battle each season.  When we get into periods of cloudy, overcast,  rainy and damp conditions the fungus attacks.  It thrives in that type of environment.  The end of September has provided exactly that.  Leaf spot and Pythium have reared its ugly head.  I have applied 3 types of fungicide to control it.  While this fungus is mostly aesthetic the greens continue to put very well.  Recovery time depends on the weather.  Out of the last 10 days, we have seen the sun ONE DAY, and it has rained 8 of those days.  Bermuda grass needs sunlight. This weeks forecast looks great with Sunny days and highs near 80.  The greens will bounce back, please be patient.  Now let the sun shine!