Weekly Course Update
What a month we have had, over the month of January we have had 13 days peaking over 35’C and a total of 24 days above 30’C with some reaching 40’C. In the first half of the month we were fortunate enough to have afternoon storms resulting in a total of just over 40mm of rain, unfortunately the second half of the month only receiving a total of 8mm.
Due to the extreme prolonged heat the greens have been kept well-watered which many of you have noticed. Greens condition has held up well because of this, unfortunately there are many courses that are not in this position and have large turf loss, green scarring and turf issues.
Looking at the forecast ahead some rainfall is predicted and temperatures to ease a little, this will result in less watering and being able to firm up the greens.
The putting green will be in play next week, the green suffered immensely after the junior golf day held on the 7th of January, reasons for this being another hot day and some very keen golfers spending the day on it from first light until late afternoon.
A light aerification, top dress and fertiliser application was carried out, simply the old profile combined with the stress of so much traffic and the heat pushed it to its limits.
Bunker work will commence in the coming weeks once growth has slowed, old sand will be removed over drainage lines and fresh sand added, this will assist in bunker drainage as well as replenish bunkers that may be low in areas.
Reminder to drink plenty of water and be mindful of each other in the current conditions, there is always another day for golf.
Assistant Superintendent
Michael Hedger