Winter Preparations

We are and have been in winter preparation for the last week or two. We have pre-emerged the course and have been getting the greens ready for winter.

It is critical that the height of cut be raised in the fall to allow for root and canopy development. As the temperatures begin to fall, (soil temps in 70’s), we begin stepping-up the height of cut in small increments to arrive at 3/16” (0.187”) by the time of the first frost. We rarely get our mowers to that height before the turf stops growing. As the temperatures fall the turf grows slower which help to maintain a good green speed.

The objectives of raising the height are 1) to increase canopy density so that it holds up to traffic during the months of no-growth, 2) to decrease firmness somewhat so that ball roll speed does not become excessively fast in winter and 3) to store more carbohydrate reserves to be used when breaking dormancy in spring. (Proper fertility is a critical part of this process)

The process of canopy development and carbohydrate storage cannot occur in the absence of adequate nitrogen. It is imperative that the grass receive enough nitrogen to “fatten up” for winter. Since out turf is already healthy and growing we have been able to use lower rates of nitrogen for winter prep. It is also important to apply applications of potassium in the fall. We have already made the proper applications and will follow up as needed. In conjunction with our potassium application we applied a pre-emerge chemical. This will help prevent the germination of winter weeds in the greens.

It is important to apply a fungicide in the fall to prevent Spring Dead Spot (SDS) disease in the spring. Literature indicates that colonization and infection of Bermuda grass roots by the pathogens that cause SDS (O. korrea and O. herpotricha

are, if you are interested) are most likely to occur when soil temperatures range from 50 -77 F, with maximum injury occurring around 60-65 It is recommended that fungicide be applied when soils temps are starting to cool down and reach an average of 74-77 degrees F. We made the application this morning.

I hope this helps everyone understand a little of what goes on to protect the course during the winter months. Please let me know if you have any questions.