In the January 2009 USGA Southwest Regional update , Pat Gross reported on a successful technique to prime seed that allows perennial ryegrass to rapidly germinate and fill in divots. As originally reported, the method was based in a warmer climate so courses in the Pacific Northwest waited until warmer weather arrived to test the technique. Based on the first report back from Chris Gaughan, superintendent at Eugene CC in Oregon, the method worked well, even early in the season, when compared to the more common technique of simply mixing seed with sand and organic material.

The photos show two areas seeded on the Eugene CC practice tee on May 1. The left photo is the more common method used by Mr. Gaughan over the past years with seed mixed into the sand and then placed in the divoted area. The right photo shows the difference when using primed perennial ryegrass seed. Both photos were taken May 7.

To view this type of rapid germination in a six day period in early May bodes well for divot establishment all over the Pacific Northwest. Give it a try and you to will have faster recovery with your divots during "prime time".

Source: Larry Giluly, lgilhuly@usga.org or 253-858-2266