Topdressing

Yesterday we topdressed the greens again with a straight sand topdress to help smooth the surface and to dilute any thatch accumulations. The greens are topdressed on a little and often basis, however it is noticeable now that we are starting to see a build up of sand in the upper surface of the turf profile. This is a positive step forward, providing firmer greens that can take more wear throughout the year. Given some drier weather they also run consistently faster.

We applied around 12 tonnes to 20 greens, as the greens are cut fairly low we dont need to apply too much sand to ensure we get it in to the sward. Today we cut and rolled the greens, the sand that was applied caused some issues collecting on rollers and tyres on the mowers, however after a little rain and growth the sand will settle down.

Now the trees are in leaf and the blossom is out on the cherry trees it feels like summer is finally here, I think the course always looks its best when there is real definition and we can present the course to the best standards we can. Now we have good growth we have applied a selective herbicide to the semi rough areas to control various weeds, we will also treat selected ares of fairways, all the tees and some of the range area in the coming days when conditions allow.

The selective weedkiller were using combines two active ingredients with different modes of action.

Fluroxypyr is an auxinic herbicide that enters plants via the leaves and disrupts normal growth functions. Florasulam however, can enter via the roots as well as the foliage, helping to ensure complete distribution throughout the plant.Fluroxypyr and florasulam move through the plant in both the xylem and phloem vessels. This provides effective distribution and accumulation at the growing points in both shoots and roots. Last year we used a similar product on the fairways with very good effect.
After the greens were treated with the feed and wetter they are looking better and are seeding less, growth will be monitored to ensure they remain healthy. Alistair and myself both passed excavator assessment this morning.
Other tasks have been to continue with cutting roughs, cutting copses, finishing tees and cutting around sprinkler heads.